Schools

Behavioral school worker accused of tossing boy across room in Tennessee

Clarksville, TN A former worker at Oak Plains Academy faces charges following an alleged incident involving a 10-year-old boy. William Sturgill, 43, is charged with one count of child abuse in relation to the May event.

Sturgill allegedly threw the boy onto a couch after a dispute over a blanket. The child’s mother, Katelyn Swainson, reported that her son described the incident as being “yeeted” off the couch.

Swainson received a call from her son on May 28 detailing the confrontation. She stated that Sturgill approached her child aggressively, screaming and pointing in his face.

According to reports, the boy ran away from Sturgill, who pursued him into a dayroom. After the boy allegedly kicked Sturgill during a physical confrontation, he was thrown to the ground, sustaining injuries.

Swainson claimed the incident was captured on video, showing Sturgill pushing her son onto the couch multiple times. She noted her son suffered bruising on his wrist and shoulder as a result of the altercation.

The child had been attending Oak Plains to address behavioral issues associated with autism and ADHD. Swainson expressed concern that this incident has hindered her son’s progress.

Oak Plains Academy confirmed Sturgill is no longer employed at the facility after management reviewed the video evidence. The center has not responded to requests for further comment.

Sturgill’s trial is set for December 15 as the case progresses.