A Clermont man was arrested for child abuse after allegedly pushing a student with special needs into a wall multiple times.
Officers responded to Lake Hills Elementary School, located at 909 S Lakeshore Blvd., regarding 60-year-old M, a teacher’s assistant, allegedly becoming aggressive with a male student, according to an arrest report from the Howey-in-the-Hills Police Department.
The principal advised that three staff members reported the incident shortly before law enforcement arrived. The incident had been captured on the school’s security camera system, as well, the report said.
The report noted that the school is for students with special needs, and the juvenile victim was a nonverbal student diagnosed with ASD and epilepsy.
The footage showed multiple students and staff members, including M and the juvenile victim, walking through the hallway. M could be seen escorting the juvenile victim while bending his arm backward in a manner that seemed uncomfortable and unreasonable. He then aggressively pushed the juvenile victim against the wall five times and got in his face, the report said.
M continued escorting the juvenile victim down the hallway and repeatedly forced him against the wall. From another camera angle, he appeared to put his hand over the juvenile victim’s mouth. Another staff member interfered at that point and took the juvenile victim away from the area, the report said.
An officer spoke with My in the school cafeteria. M repeatedly tried to downplay the incident and was dismissive when questioned about his actions. Multiple attempts were made to obtain his side of the incident or a written statement. He instead became uncooperative and requested to speak with an attorney, the report said.
He was then given several commands to stay in place and not move throughout the campus while officers investigated. Despite this, he continued walking toward the principal’s office, which multiple staff members saw, the report said.
M was arrested on charges of battery, child abuse and resisting arrest. The Illinois native was booked at Lake County Jail and released after posting $7,000 bond.
Your Legal Resource for Personal Injury Support
When you’re dealing with a personal injury, having a reliable legal resource can make all the difference. Ovadia Law Group is dedicated to providing comprehensive support and expert legal guidance to individuals facing injury-related challenges. Our team is well-versed in personal injury law and committed to helping you understand your rights and options. We take pride in our client-centered approach, ensuring that your needs are always our top priority. Whether you’re seeking compensation or simply need advice, we’re here to help. Our free consultations are designed to give you clarity and confidence as you consider your next steps. Call Ovadia Law Group at 1-800-674-9396 and let us be your trusted legal partner. With our experience and dedication, you can feel empowered to pursue justice and recovery.
Source: leesburg-news
