Elementary School Principal Charged With Assault
Andrew Winter, principal of Ritchie Park Elementary School in Rockville, Maryland, has been charged with second-degree assault of a student. The incident purportedly took place on February 9, 2023, at the school itself. According to Rockville police and supporting documents, Winter allegedly grabbed the student by their clothing, sat them on a bench, and stomped on their foot. Winter, 54, turned himself in following the issuance of a warrant on Monday. He was due to appear before a District Court commissioner, although details of the appearance are not yet available. Winter has been serving as the principal since 2020. Montgomery County Public Schools did not immediately comment on his employment status, but the school's website currently lists an acting principal.
Crossing Guard Faces Assault Charges in Taunton
A school crossing guard, Louis Chaves, 68, of Taunton, Massachusetts, has been charged with three counts of assault and battery by means of a dangerous weapon. This follows an alleged altercation with the occupants of a vehicle outside Taunton High School on Monday morning. Authorities responded to the scene around 7:30 a.m. Chaves was subsequently arrested and later arraigned in Taunton District Court, where he pleaded not guilty and was released on personal recognizance. He has been instructed to avoid contact with the victims or witnesses. Following the incident, Taunton Public Schools terminated Chaves's employment immediately. Further information is to be provided by Taunton police.