A Manchester, New Hampshire behavioral therapist faces grave charges after allegedly assaulting a 7-year-old student at Parker Varney Elementary School, stirring up community concerns and prompting a criminal investigation. According to multiple reports, 69-year-old Louis Efstathiou turned himself in to the authorities after a warrant was issued for his arrest on charges that included second-degree assault, simple assault, and endangering the welfare of a child.
Police got involved on December 22, when a report reached them of a child coming home with facial injuries, which he claimed were inflicted by his therapist at school, as reported by NBC Boston. Efstathiou, who was employed by Applied ABC, an external provider working with the Manchester School District, was swiftly removed from his duties following the accusations. The provider specializes in autism therapy and has conducted its own immediate termination of Efstathiou's employment.
In a statement obtained by 7NEWS, Applied ABC announced their stance with zero tolerance for any misconduct involving children. Meanwhile, the Manchester School District Superintendent Jennifer Chmiel Gillis remarked that the contracted providers are independently responsible for hiring and vetting their employees, including background checks, which must be completed prior to school placement.
Further details shared by police to Boston 25 News revealed that Efstathiou had been working with the student for several months before the alleged incident. In light of the charges, a cash bail was set at $1,000 for Efstathiou, who is currently facing the consequences of his purported action.
School officials have reportedly taken additional measures with contracted workers since the allegations came to light, ensuring that a similar event does not tarnish the trust placed in educational and therapeutic staff again, intending to protect their young and vulnerable wards. The case underscores the critical responsibility educational providers bear and the essential watchfulness required by all stakeholders to safeguard children's wellbeing in learning environments.
