Two teacher aides at Woodford County High School are facing allegations of physically abusing a non-verbal autistic student earlier this year. Surveillance videos captured the aides, Trevor Dotson and Keith Brown, pushing, dragging, and bending the student’s fingers. The Kentucky Adult Protection Services and Versailles Police Department are investigating the incident. The student sustained permanent injuries, and a lawsuit has been filed seeking medical expenses and punitive damages. Valarie Honeycutt Spears reported
Teacher Aides Accused of Physically Abusing Autistic Student at Woodford County High School
Two teacher aides, Trevor Dotson and Keith Brown, along with Superintendent Danny Adkins, have been accused of physically abusing a non-verbal autistic student at Woodford County High School. The alleged abuse took place between January and May of this year, as stated in a lawsuit filed by parent Maria Pedroza-Rico in Woodford Circuit Court.
Physical Abuse and Harassment
According to the lawsuit, Dotson and Brown subjected the student, identified as C.P., to physical abuse. The acts included pushing him, dragging him across the floor, and even bending his fingers back while his hand was placed palm-down on his desk. These acts of physical abuse were captured on surveillance footage.
Investigation Underway
Kentucky Adult Protection Services and the Versailles Police Department are currently investigating the allegations against Dotson and Brown. The lawsuit states that both individuals have been suspended with pay until the investigation is completed. Superintendent Adkins confirmed the ongoing suspension but refrained from making any further comments due to the pending litigation.
Severe Consequences for the Student
As a result of the abuse inflicted by Dotson and Brown, C.P. suffered permanent injuries and damages. The lawsuit highlights bodily injury, physical impairment, pain and suffering, emotional injury, inconvenience, disfigurement, and disability as the severe consequences faced by the student.
Denial and Legal Action
In a court document filed on October 30, Keith Brown denied the harm or damage described in the lawsuit. However, the attorneys representing Maria Pedroza-Rico, Noel Caldwell and Thomas Todd, emphasized that the complaint speaks for itself. Pedroza-Rico is seeking compensation for medical expenses and punitive damages.
The investigation and legal proceedings surrounding this case continue, and the Woodford County High School community awaits justice for C.P. and his family.
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