A substitute teacher at Dr. Joaquin Garcia High School in Palm Beach County has been arrested on charges of child abuse after an altercation with a student. David Kellier, 23, allegedly punched a student in the abdomen after an incident involving the student slapping and flicking him. Kellier's action was caught on surveillance footage, and he has since been terminated from his position, according to CBS12 News.
The incident, which took place on Wednesday, was corroborated by three students who witnessed the event. Kellier was seen grabbing the student's backpack before striking him. Following the review of the footage and witness accounts, Kellier admitted to the physical response and is cooperating with law enforcement, as stated in a report obtained by WPBF News. The mother of the assaulted student has expressed her intention to press charges.
The school principal, Oscar Otero, promptly informed the school community of the incident and actions taken against Kellier, including his immediate termination. In a statement to the families and staff, he emphasized, "The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority, and we will always take swift and decisive action to protect our students and staff." This sentiment was echoed in the local community, with one parent, Tommy Morgan, telling CBS12 News, "You're supposed to be able to send your child to school and know they're safe."
Kellier, who also served as a coach, is currently being held on $5,000 bail and has been ordered by a judge not to have contact with the victim or witnesses. The full extent of any disciplinary actions taken against the student involved in the initial altercation with Kellier has not been disclosed. Oscar Otero's statement was released to parents and staff on Wednesday, as reported by CBS12 News.
