Tax Funded Education News: Parma High substitute teacher and students charged in attack on developmentally challenged teen

03/08/2014


PARMA, OH - A substitute teacher accused of allowing a developmentally challenged teen to be bullied in gym class will be arraigned on March 19.

Gregg Mellinger is charged with endangering children. Five students in the class also face charges of assault and disorderly conduct.

The incident happened at Parma Senior High School on Feb. 28. According to police, a 14 year-old boy repeatedly threw a volleyball at the victim from close range, striking him on the head.

Enough force was used that the victim eventually fell to the floor.

A 13-year-old girl was seen laughing and encouraging the bullying and assault on the victim. The disoriented victim staggered back to his feet, at which point the girl kicked him in the groin, causing him to fall to the floor again.

Mellinger walked over to the victim, who was still lying on the floor. He then dispersed the group of students, who had gathered around to watch, before walking over to another corner of the gym to continue instructing class while the victim was still face down on the floor.

The teacher remained in the gym while another pair of students approached the victim and began sliding into the victim as he was still lying on the floor. A 14-year-old boy also dragged the victim face down by his feet across the gym floor. A 15-year-old boy and a 13-year-old boy squatted over the victim and simulated lewd acts near the victim's head while he lay motionless on the gym floor.

The victim's family told Reporter Brian Duffy they have no comment, but at some point, will speak out about the allegations.

STATEMENT FROM PARMA SCHOOLS:

There was an incident in a Physical Education class being conducted by a substitute teacher at one of our schools. The substitute was not a district employee and the private company that provides substitutes for the District was immediately notified to ensure that the individual cannot return to the Parma City School District.  

Upon learning of the incident, school officials immediately notified the Parma Police Department and fully cooperated with their investigation. After the investigation, the Parma Police Department has indicated that it arrested five juveniles and one adult (who is not a District employee).

In addition to any potential legal consequences from the Police Department, the District is conducting its own school investigation and will take any necessary steps consistent with district policy. This type of conduct is unacceptable and our district remains committed to ensuring that all of our students are provided a safe learning environment. We will continue cooperating with the proper authorities in this matter.​

source