A gym instructor from a Baker County school is now in custody following allegations made by deputies. recorded one of his students to a chair.
The event took place at Westside Elementary School.
The arrest report for 50-year-old Kristopher Waite indicates that the incident began when a student was amusing themselves with a roll of tape, prompting the coach to ask them to cease. The document further notes that tensions escalated when another student attempted to assist the individual involved, causing anger from the coach.
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The police stated that the coach acknowledged videotaping the child during the gym session, but asserted that it was done only once as a joke and he believed it wasn't significant.
The individual from Glen St. Mary was apprehended on Thursday evening.
The Baker County Sheriff’s Office arrest report indicates that although the girl’s arms weren't secured with tape, she still couldn't escape and was "fighting for about 30 seconds."
The victim described it as "duct tape," however, according to the report, Waite could not verify if it was clear office tape or a broader clear packing tape.
Waite has been accused of child abuse without significant bodily harm.
Read: A Clay County family is pursuing legal measures against the school district due to allegations of hazing.
According to a statement released by the Baker County School District, they said in part: "We are completely cooperating with the Baker County Sheriff’s Office, carrying out an independent review within the organization, and adhering strictly to all relevant school district guidelines and protocols concerning this issue."
Action News Jax spoke with a seasoned district staff member residing across from Westside Elementary School.
"It’s unbelievable that such an incident could occur in our educational institutions. My kids attended these schools. When I was young, I also studied in the Baker County school system. Throughout my experience, we only encountered favorable outcomes from the schooling," stated Lynette Griffis.
The girl mentioned she could still breathe despite being covered with tape, and she hadn't been injured. However, her fear set in when it became evident that the coach had no intention of removing the tape.
Action News Jax spoke with a seasoned district staff member residing across from Westside Elementary School.
"It’s unbelievable that such an incident could occur in our educational institutions. My kids attended these schools. When I was young, I also studied in the Baker County school system. Throughout my experience, we only encountered favorable outcomes from the schooling," stated Lynette Griffis.
The child mentioned she could still breathe despite being taped up, and she hadn’t been injured, but she became frightened when it was evident that the coach had no intention of removing the tape.
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