Teacher accused of forcibly manipulating finger of nonverbal child to gain compliance, police report
In a shocking turn of events, Brandee R. Lewis, an elementary school teacher at Forest Acres Elementary School in Pickens County, SC, was arrested last week. The Easley Police Department made the arrest in connection with two students being assaulted at the school on Aug. 6.
Lewis, who is certified in the field of special education, is charged with two counts of third-degree assault and battery. According to the police report, Lewis used non-crisis prevention intervention techniques on nonverbal special needs students.
The incidents involved Lewis pulling a student's finger back toward the wrist, causing pain, to gain control during classroom activities. She also grabbed the top of another student's head and forced it toward classwork to gain compliance and compel attention.
The School District of Pickens County placed Lewis on leave on Aug. 8, following the incident. The school district began its own review into the incidents involving Lewis, but due to ongoing and pending legal matters, they cannot discuss the details of the allegations.
The safety and security of its students is the school district's highest priority. They notified the Easley Police Department about the situation and are cooperating fully with the investigation.
At this time, no updates have been released regarding the arrest of Brandee R. Lewis. The school district urges anyone with information related to this incident to contact the Easley Police Department.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of treating all students with respect and dignity, and using appropriate intervention techniques when working with special needs students. The school district is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all students.
