Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : Title: Florida Teacher Arrested for Assaulting 12-Year-Old Student at Palatka School
Date: December 6, 2023
Time: 5:09 AM
A shocking incident unfolded at the Putnam Academy of Arts and Science School in Palatka, Florida, as a teacher was arrested for allegedly assaulting a 12-year-old student. According to the Palatka Police Department, the incident occurred during school hours on Monday, and the suspect, identified as James Bellamy, was apprehended after video evidence surfaced.
The distressing footage revealed that Bellamy had reportedly knocked out the student’s tooth with his elbow and even threw a basketball at him in a fit of rage. The victim’s mother alerted the authorities after viewing the video, which clearly showed the teacher’s aggressive behavior towards her son.
Following the report, officers promptly visited the victim’s residence on Belmont Drive to gather further information. The mother informed them about the violent assault her son had endured earlier in the day. The video evidence showcased Bellamy throwing the basketball at the child and subsequently elbowing him in the mouth, resulting in the loss of a tooth.
The police officers corroborated the victim’s account, who confirmed the details provided by his mother. The 12-year-old boy stated that Bellamy became angry with him during their basketball game, presuming that he had intentionally struck his arm or head. The child narrated how Bellamy called him back onto the court and threw the ball at him, narrowly missing. However, the situation escalated when the teacher struck him in the face with his elbow, causing the tooth to be knocked out.
Subsequently, law enforcement located Bellamy at a residence on Napoleon Street. After being advised of his rights, he was questioned about the incident. Bellamy claimed that the victim had hit him during the game, which prompted him to call the child back onto the court. He admitted throwing the ball but insisted that the elbow strike was unintentional.
As a result of the investigation, James Bellamy was arrested on charges of child abuse and battery. He was booked into the Putnam County Jail, where he is currently being held without bond. The court date for the case is yet to be announced.
This disturbing incident has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of students at the Putnam Academy of Arts and Science School. The investigation into the alleged assault is ongoing, and authorities are committed to ensuring justice for the young victim.