A Massachusetts special education teacher has been charged with assault following allegations of physically abusing two autistic students. Susan Martin, 57, was arrested on two counts of assault and battery against a person with an intellectual disability. Witnesses claim that Martin slapped and shoved two five-year-old students with autism. Following her arrest, Martin was released.
The incidents reportedly occurred on November 26, when Martin was seen slapping one student and pushing and slapping another about an hour later. According to the police, several staff members witnessed both incidents. Martin, a licensed special education teacher in the Attleboro Public School district, has been the subject of multiple complaints by staff members who allege that she has made concerning comments about the students and has been overly aggressive and heavy-handed with them.
Court records describe the November 26 incident in detail. One of the students reportedly got up from her seat in class just before noon, at which point Martin allegedly slapped her on the cheek, causing an audible noise and making the child cry. A local Fox affiliate reported that the incident left a visible mark on the child’s face.
The second incident occurred about an hour later, following a fire drill. The second student reportedly got out of his seat and swung at Martin, who allegedly slapped him across the face. The noise was reportedly heard across the room by other staff, one of whom asked if the boy had slapped himself. Martin allegedly responded, “Oh no, I got him.” Both students are diagnosed with nonverbal autism.
Martin was arrested at her home, booked, and released on her own recognizance. She was ordered to have no contact with anyone under 16 and was placed on administrative leave immediately after the November 26 incident was reported.
David Sawyer, the superintendent of Attleboro Public Schools, released a statement following Martin’s arrest. He acknowledged the allegations and confirmed that an internal investigation had been initiated in addition to the criminal investigation. Sawyer emphasized the school’s commitment to student safety and collaboration with law enforcement in their ongoing investigation.
Martin pleaded not guilty to the charges during her arraignment on December 9. Her attorney stated that she denied the allegations and insisted that there was absolutely no harm to the children. Martin is due back in court on January 23.