New Caney ISD resource officer was fired after he was accused of assaulting a nonverbal student at Woodridge Forest Middle School

PORTER, Texas (KTRK) — A special education teacher at New Caney ISD has been fired after he was accused of assaulting a nonverbal student.

Denise Gomez told ABC13 that her son Max came home twice in October with bruises on his chest. She said a county police officer viewed security video and saw the attack.

“I didn't want to believe it. My family and I didn’t want to believe it,” Gomez said. “I knew he was scared to be there.”

The 13-year-old, who has severe autism, is in the 7th grade at Woodridge Forest Middle School.

“The school district has been made aware of an allegation of student abuse by a paraprofessional involving a student at Woodridge Forest Middle School. The district immediately launched an investigation into the situation. The paraprofessional's employment with New Caney ISD was terminated on October 25. “the district said in a statement.

ABC13 is not naming the former employee because no criminal charges have been filed against him.

Gomez said the alleged attack took place in a so-called “quiet room,” a place where students should feel safe.

Max has not returned to class since his mother reported the incident. Gomez, who fears other students have been mistreated, is unsure if Max will ever feel safe at school again.

“I can’t believe someone would do this to an autistic child who can’t defend themselves,” she said. “I want him charged with a crime.”

New Caney ISD sent the following statement:

“The school district has been made aware of an allegation of student abuse by a paraprofessional involving a student at Woodridge Forest Middle School. The district immediately launched an investigation into the situation. The assistant professional's employment with New Caney ISD was terminated on October 25.” Student safety is New Caney ISD's top priority and the district will always take immediate and appropriate action to protect the safety of students and staff. The district cannot provide further comment as this is an active case investigation.”

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