A Central Florida teacher was recently arrested for child abuse of a 12-year-old student.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested 34-year-old John Steele, a teacher, following an investigation into an incident involving a 12-year-old student at Jennings Middle School in Seffner near Tampa.
HCSO detectives were alerted to an altercation during gym class last month. Through investigative means, detectives determined the victim was playing with a volleyball when it accidentally struck Steele on the chin after the victim attempted to kick it.
In response, Steele began yelling at the victim, moved toward her, placed his foot behind her, and used his left arm to shove her onto her back as he leaned over the victim and continued to yell, according to law enforcement. The victim did not sustain any visible injuries from the incident but reported back pain.
Steele was arrested and charged with one count of Child Abuse.
“No child should ever feel threatened or unsafe by their teacher. This behavior is unacceptable, especially from someone entrusted with caring for and guiding our kids,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “This arrest serves as a reminder that we will not tolerate behavior that jeopardizes the safety of our community’s most vulnerable members.”
