A special education specialist in Hillsborough County, Florida, was arrested Monday for allegedly punching a 9-year-old student with autism, according to law enforcement officials.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced that 39-year-old Preche Rodriguez, who works as a behavioral support teacher at the Eisenhower Exception Center, was arrested for physically abusing a nonverbal student with autism. FOX 13 in Tampa report.
Investigators learned of an incident on February 8 in which a student struck Rodriguez with his hand.
Florida bill would create stiffer penalties for children caught with gun possession
Preche Rodriguez booking photo (Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office)
In response to the punch, Rodriguez allegedly punched the 9-year-old in the face, causing the child to fall to the ground.
Rodriguez was charged with a single count of child abuse.
‘America’s most wanted’ suspect arrested in Florida linked to child sex crimes
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of Preche Rodriguez for allegedly punching a 9-year-old autistic student. (Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office)
“The actions of this individual who was not only in a position of authority and trust, but who was given the responsibility to protect our most vulnerable people, are disgusting,” Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. “Under no circumstances should any child be exposed to this level of violence.
“There is no place for child abuse in our schools or communities. Detectives will continue to work to ensure all students are protected,” the sheriff added.
County jail records show Rodriguez was arrested at his home. He was released Tuesday morning after posting $2,500 bail.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
An investigation into this matter is ongoing.
