39-year-old Prechae Rodriguez, a Behavior Support Teacher at Eisenhower Exceptional Center, in Hillsborough County, Florida, was apprehended after authorities said that he punched a 9-year-old student.
On Monday, Rodriguez was taken into custody for the abuse of a student with autism who is non-verbal, as well.
Reports indicate that the teacher and student were exiting the gym when the student slapped the teacher. That’s when Rodriguez punched the child in the face, making him fall on the floor.
The incident was reported immediately as the child was cared for. Officials in the district noted that Rodriguez was terminated.
The teacher had been hired in August 2023 and had no previous issues while he was employed with the district.
“I am disgusted by the actions of this individual who was not only in a position of authority and trust but was given the responsibility to protect our most vulnerable. No child, under any circumstance, should be subject to this level of violence,” stated Sheriff Chad Chronister.
Rodriguez has been charged with one count of child abuse as an investigation is continuing.
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