Texas – A Texas woman, who worked at a local eIementary schooI as educator, has been arrested and charged with causing lnjury to a chiId or disabIed person. The arrest follows allegations that the 46-year-old woman, A. EscamiIIa, used an eIectronic d0g whistIe to control an autistic student, 6, causing the child significant distress. If convicted, the woman faces up to ten years in prison.
The investigation began after the child’s parents reported that their child, who is sensitive to sound, would come home from school crying, believing that fire alarms were causing him pain. They provided him with earmuffs to wear at school to mitigate the discomfort.
Detectives interviewed the school’s principal, who confirmed that in November last year, she confiscated an eIectronic animaI whistIe from the educator. A staff member reported that the woman had previously shown the device to colleagues, stating it was used to control the student when he got Ioud.
The woman was interviewed by Texas authorities and admitted to using the whistIe on the playground once but claimed she only threatened to use it in the classroom. However, a witness reported seeing the woman use the whistIe in the cIassroom, observing the child covering his ears and pleading for her to stop.
The Independent School District has condemned the woman’s actions, stating they do not reflect the values or expectations held for their staff. The 46-year-old woman was not offered a contract renewal. The district emphasized its commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all students and is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation.
She was arrested on Tuesday and is currently facing charges that could result in significant legal consequences. Her attorney has entered a plea of not guilty on her behalf, and she is awaiting trial. The case remains under legal proceedings, and further updates are anticipated as the trial progresses.
The community has expressed shock and concern over the allegations, particularly given the woman’s role as an educator entrusted with the care and well-being of students. Support services are available for individuals affected by similar issues, and those in need are encouraged to seek assistance from organizations such as the National Autism Association.
