Louisiana Teacher’s Aide Allegedly Struck Autistic Student Multiple Times

A teacher’s aide in a Louisiana school is facing charges for allegedly striking an autistic student multiple times, authorities said.

The Shreveport Police Department said the Caddo Parish School District became aware of “concerning” behavior and launched an internal investigation into a teacher’s aide at Youree Drive Middle School. The school board determined Tramikal Davis had inappropriate physical contact with a special education student inside the classroom.

Davis was “immediately” fired and the school board reported its findings to the police and the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).

Further investigation by police determined Davis allegedly struck a 13-year-old autistic student multiple times. He was arrested and charged with eight counts of simple battery of the infirm.

“The Shreveport Police Department commends the quick, decisive, and responsible actions of the Caddo Parish School Board and its employees. Their vigilance ensured this individual was removed from the classroom and held accountable without delay.” police said. “SPD will continue to aggressively investigate any allegation involving harm to a child and remains firmly committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community.”