Two former employees at an Oklahoma elementary school are facing criminal charges following separate allegations involving the treatment of young students. Both incidents, which occurred months apart, have raised serious concerns about student safety in the community.
The cases are tied to events at Elgin Elementary School in Comanche County, where both individuals have since been arrested and removed from their positions.
First Incident Involved Alleged Use of Force in Classroom
According to investigators, the first incident took place in January after school officials reported concerns about a staff member’s conduct.
Authorities say the employee allegedly grabbed a 10-year-old student, pushed him back into his seat, and struck him. Video footage reviewed during the investigation reportedly captured the interaction.
The child was later found to have visible redness on his face.
The employee told police she was attempting to manage classroom behavior and did not intend to harm the student.
Second Case Involved Younger Child in Hallway
A separate incident was reported in March involving another staff member.
Witnesses told investigators that a 5-year-old child was carried down a hallway in what was described as a chokehold. The child was reportedly crying and trying to break free during the encounter.
The situation prompted immediate concern among staff and led to further investigation.
Charges Filed and Employees Dismissed
Both individuals have been charged with assault and battery upon a student in Comanche County.
Following the allegations:
- Both employees were arrested
- Both were terminated from their positions at the school
School officials confirmed that action was taken promptly after the incidents were reported.
School District Responds to Incidents
District leadership stated that both situations were brought to attention by fellow staff members shortly after they occurred.
Officials emphasized that:
- All employees undergo background checks before hiring
- References are reviewed as part of the hiring process
- Any employee found to have harmed a student will be immediately dismissed
The district reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for students.
Court Hearings Scheduled
Both individuals are scheduled to appear in court on May 20 as legal proceedings move forward.
Authorities have not released additional details about the cases at this time.
Summary of Key Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Elgin Elementary School, Comanche County |
| Incidents | January and March 2026 |
| First case | Alleged physical force against 10-year-old |
| Second case | Alleged chokehold on 5-year-old |
| Charges | Assault and battery upon a student |
| Employment status | Both employees terminated |
| Court date | May 20 |
| Investigation | Ongoing |
The two incidents have prompted serious discussion about student safety and staff accountability within schools. As the cases move through the legal system, the focus remains on ensuring proper safeguards are in place to protect children in educational settings.
