A teacher at a former private school in Hialeah is facing a felony child abuse charge after investigators say she physically abused an 8-year-old student diagnosed with autism and ADHD.
Video obtained through a public records request shows what authorities describe as an incident involving former teacher Nicole Rodriguez at Peace Christian Academy in Hialeah. The footage is heavily redacted, but portions appear to show a woman restraining or struggling with a child for several minutes.
Rodriguez has pleaded not guilty to the charge.
During a bond court hearing in April, Rodriguez’s defense argued the incident involved a child who was acting out and that she was in the process of restraining him.
According to the arrest report, the incident happened in March. Investigators say Rodriguez grabbed the boy’s arm and spun him aggressively. She is also accused of slamming the child’s upper body and head onto the floor and pinning his head in a corner.
Police further allege that Rodriguez pushed the child, causing him to fall against a table.
According to court records, the child suffered injuries that included a small puncture wound on his bicep, bruising, scratches and a bruise on one of his fingers.
Rodriguez posted bond and has been released from jail while awaiting trial later this month.
NBC6 went to Rodriguez’s home Thursday afternoon seeking comment. A woman who saw the news crew closed the blinds and did not answer questions.