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Teacher Accused of Forcefully Slamming Student
20 Apr
Summary
- Teacher arrested for allegedly slamming special needs student multiple times.
- Classroom surveillance video captured the alleged assault.
- School initially described actions as 'supportive de-escalation'.
A teacher at a Florida Christian school, Nikol Marie Rodriguez, 29, has been arrested on child abuse charges. Authorities allege that Rodriguez forcefully slammed an 8-year-old student with special needs, diagnosed with autism and ADHD, multiple times within the classroom at Peace Christian Academy in Hialeah.
Surveillance footage from March 4 reportedly captured the teacher grabbing the student and then slamming his upper body and head onto the floor. The student's mother later discovered bruises and a puncture wound on her son. Rodriguez's attorney has requested a bond reduction, which was denied.
School officials initially characterized Rodriguez's actions as 'supportive de-escalation' aimed at preventing harm. However, police have charged Rodriguez with one count of child abuse without great bodily harm. She has since posted a $5,000 bond and is under orders to stay away from the child.
