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Stewart Ryan, Esq. - NJ Abuse Guardian
Hi - I'm Stewart. I am an attorney that practices in New Jersey and I am a former sex crimes prosecutor. I worked on the the team that prosecuted Bill Cobsy. Trust me with your case, and I promise to not let you down.
In a shocking development at Mount Carmel Academy in West Orange, a staff member has been arrested following allegations of child abuse in New Jersey. The incident, which occurred in July 2024, has raised serious concerns about the safety of students, particularly those with special needs.
Jaron Spicer, a teacher at Mount Carmel Academy, was caught on surveillance video allegedly mistreating an 11-year-old student with special needs. The disturbing footage shows Spicer slamming the student, identified as Zaire Smith, to the floor and holding him down for several minutes. The ordeal reportedly lasted for at least 30 minutes, during which other staff members appeared to do little to intervene.
Following the incident, Spicer was arrested and now faces several serious charges:
If convicted, Spicer could face up to 10 years in prison. The family has also obtained a restraining order against him.
Zaire's parents have expressed relief that Spicer will be held accountable for his actions. The family's attorney has filed claims against the school and contacted both the police and the Essex County Prosecutor's Office, which led to Spicer's arrest.
This incident highlights the vulnerability of special needs students and the importance of proper training and supervision in educational settings. Schools must implement strict policies and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, especially those with special needs.
Parents and caregivers should be aware of potential signs of abuse in special needs children, which may include:
Stewart Ryan, Esq., a seasoned attorney at Abuse Guardians, offers his perspective on this case: "The allegations against Jaron Spicer are deeply troubling. Schools have a fundamental responsibility to protect their students, especially those with special needs who may be more vulnerable to abuse. This case underscores the importance of rigorous background checks, proper training, and constant supervision of staff members who work with children. Parents should feel empowered to speak up if they suspect any form of abuse, and schools must have clear protocols in place for reporting and addressing such concerns. As we move forward, it's crucial that we continue to advocate for stronger safeguards to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future."
If you suspect that your child or a child you know may be a victim of abuse, it's crucial to report your concerns to the appropriate authorities immediately. Remember, protecting our children is a collective responsibility, and speaking up can make a significant difference in a child's life.
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