Florida elementary teacher accused of abusing special needs student

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. (TCD) -- A 55-year-old public school elementary teacher stands accused of physically abusing a special needs student in her class.

According to a news release from the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, officials received a report on May 9 alleging that Wildwood Elementary School exceptional student education teacher Sherri Robinson would "pull the hair and ears of a special needs child to gain compliance." She allegedly knowingly "caused the child pain and discomfort."

The Sheriff’s Office interviewed several witnesses and learned she allegedly utilized "physical force" anytime the victim acted out. Officials did not disclose the victim’s name.

On Thursday, May 11, the Sheriff’s Office arrested Robinson and booked her into the Sumter County Detention on a charge of cruelty toward child –– abuse without great bodily harm.

In a statement obtained by WKMG-TV, Sumter County School Board Assistant Superintendent Deborah Moffitt said, "Student safety is of utmost importance and both the school and school district cooperated fully with law enforcement."

Moffitt continued, "While everyone has the presumption of innocence, Mrs. Robinson will not have any contact with students pending the outcome of adjudication."

MORE:

• News Release — Sumter County Sheriff’s Office
• Florida teacher arrested, accused of pulling hair, ears of student with special needs — WKMG