A Teacher in Florida Arrested After Choking 3-Year-Old with Autism During Story Time

A Teacher in Florida Arrested After Choking 3-Year-Old with Autism During Story Time
Image By: FOX 35 Orlando

Deputies said that a Central Florida teacher put an autistic 3-year-old kid in a “chokehold” last week, leading to the instructor’s arrest. A felony child abuse allegation has been brought against Deltona resident Vilma Otero, 59, according to an arrest document.

The incident happened at Forest Lake Elementary School in Deltona on Friday, according to Volusia County deputies. The incident was observed by a paraeducator who assists Otero in the classroom.

Otero was reading to the kids when she heard the boy scream and weep, the paraeducator reported to the deputies.

According to the complaint, she turned to see the child was being choked between Otero’s legs. She documented the event with photos and notified the Department of Children and Families (DCF) of the occurrence.

The child informed deputies, “I got in trouble at school,” and “she hurt me,” once they met with them later, the report states. They saw a little redness on his neck as well.

When Otero was contacted by investigators, she stated that she had taught for 36 years, primarily working with children who had difficulties.

According to deputies, she acknowledged that it would be improper to physically detain a child in the way that was described, but she denied behaving in that way even after being shown photographic proof.

Read Also:Ā High-Speed Pursuit Turns Fatal: San Diego Officer and Driver Die

Without any more problems, she was sent to the Volusia County jail.

Reference

profile
With more than two years of expertise in news and analysis, Eileen Stewart is a seasoned reporter. Eileen is a respected voice in this field, well-known for her sharp reporting and insightful analysis. Her writing covers a wide range of subjects, from politics to culture and more.