Kentucky Paraeducator Arrested After Video Shows Her Pulling Unclothed Child by Hair Inside Elementary School Gym
RICHMOND, KENTUCKY — A Madison County Schools paraeducator has been arrested and charged with child abuse after police say video footage captured her pulling an unclothed child by the hair inside a White Hall Elementary School gym earlier this month.
According to an arrest citation from the Richmond Police Department, officers were contacted by a parent who reported that their child had been assaulted by a staff member at the school on October 16. Police later obtained two videos showing the disturbing incident, which led to the arrest of Beverly Vanwinkle-Thompson, 63.
Video Footage Reveals Violent Classroom Incident
The videos reviewed by police reportedly show the child unclothed and being dragged by her hair across the gym floor. In a second clip, the child is seen lying on the ground while Vanwinkle-Thompson stands over her.
The report notes that “the child attempts to push away from her, but she smacks the child on the left leg.”
Police identified Vanwinkle-Thompson as the staff member involved and took her into custody at her home for questioning.
She was subsequently booked into the Madison County Detention Center and charged with second-degree criminal abuse of a child 12 or under and fourth-degree assault-child abuse, according to the arrest records.
District Confirms Resignation Following Investigation
In a statement to LEX 18, the Madison County School District confirmed that an internal investigation began on October 15, shortly after learning of the allegations.
“She was placed on leave that same date, pending the outcome of the investigation,” the district said. “On Friday, Oct. 17, Ms. Thompson resigned her position in the district.”
Officials said the district reported its findings to the Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) and has since fully cooperated with both DCBS and the Richmond Police Department in the investigation.
As the case moves forward, authorities say the arrest underscores the importance of transparency and accountability within schools, particularly in cases involving students with special needs or behavioral challenges. For continued updates on Kentucky education and public safety news, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.