A disturbing video has recently surfaced, allegedly showing a Maryland elementary school principal stomping on the foot of a young autistic student.

The incident, which occurred at Ritchie Park Elementary School, has raised questions about the principal’s behavior and the handling of the case by the local school district.

The Disturbing Footage and Alleged Assault

In the video obtained by FOX 5, former principal Andrew Winter, 54, is seen in the school cafeteria interacting with a six-year-old child.

According to the footage, Winter appears to grab the child and force him to sit down at a table before looking around and stomping on the child’s foot.

The child, visibly distressed, begins to cry after the alleged assault.

This incident took place on February 9, 2024, and has since sparked outrage among parents and the community.

Legal Proceedings and Acquittal

Winter was arrested in June and charged with second-degree assault following a joint investigation by the Rockville City Police Department and Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office.

However, after a five-hour bench trial in November, Montgomery County Circuit Judge Sharon Burrell acquitted Winter, citing a lack of sufficient evidence to convict.

Winter’s attorney, Dave Martella, expressed confidence in the ruling, stating that the allegations were thoroughly examined and the case was dismissed without Winter having to testify.

Victim’s Family Reacts to Acquittal

The child’s mother expressed her shock at the judge’s decision, still grappling with the fact that the principal was acquitted despite the video evidence.

“It’s been a year, and I still can’t believe this happened to my now seven-year-old,” she said, struggling to understand how the case was dismissed.

The family maintains that the video clearly shows Winter’s misconduct and does not believe the ruling should absolve him of responsibility.

Montgomery County Public Schools Takes Action

Following the trial, Winter was temporarily reassigned to an assistant principal position at Rock Creek Valley Elementary.

However, the appointment sparked backlash from concerned parents who initiated a petition that garnered 639 signatures.

The petition raised alarms about Winter’s suitability for the role, citing his previous behavior and lack of transparency in the decision-making process.

Winter Resigns Amid Controversy

Faced with mounting pressure, Winter resigned from his new position at Rock Creek Valley Elementary.

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Superintendent Thomas Taylor confirmed in a letter to the community that Winter would no longer be assigned to any in-school role within the district.

Despite his resignation, a district spokesperson clarified that Winter would remain employed by MCPS.

The case has ignited ongoing debates about accountability, transparency, and the treatment of students with special needs in schools.

The community continues to watch closely as Winter’s future within the school district remains uncertain.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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