A former middle school coach in Ypsilanti, Michigan, is facing serious charges after surveillance footage captured him choking a 14-year-old student in a shocking incident that has since drawn widespread attention and condemnation.
The disturbing event occurred at Ypsilanti Middle School on June 4, and the coach, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, has been terminated from his position following the incident.
The surveillance video shows the coach approaching the student, identified by his family as Michael Moon, in a school hallway. The footage reveals the coach using a shirt to choke Moon, who is visibly struggling to break free from the grip.
The altercation lasted fewer than 20 seconds before Moon managed to escape and walk away. Despite the brevity of the incident, it has sparked significant concern and outrage among the school community and the public.
Jordan Vahdat, the attorney representing the Moon family, has been vocal about the severity of the incident, describing the coach’s actions as a clear abuse of power and trust. “This was an unprovoked and violent act against a student by someone who was supposed to be a trusted mentor and protector,” Vahdat said. “No child should ever have to experience this kind of trauma, especially in a place where they are supposed to feel safe.”
NEW: Michigan middle school coach has been fired for allegedly choking a student with a shirt
The coach allegedly took off a shirt, wound it around his wrists, and choked Michael from behind in the hallway last week
The teenager told his parents he coach told him to do pushups… pic.twitter.com/u09BxDyeFj
— Unlimited L’s (@unlimited_ls) June 12, 2024
In response to the incident, Ypsilanti Community Schools Superintendent Alena Zachery-Ross issued a strong statement condemning the coach’s behavior. “Our district is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for all students,” Zachery-Ross said.
“The actions of the employee are absolutely unacceptable and will not be tolerated in our district. We will continue to implement and enforce policies that protect our students and ensure their well-being.”
The Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office has authorized charges against the former coach, including assault with intent to do great bodily harm by strangulation and assault and battery. These charges reflect the seriousness of the coach’s actions and the potential harm inflicted on the student. While the exact details of the legal proceedings remain undisclosed, the charges indicate that the former coach could face significant legal consequences if convicted.
Community reactions have been swift and strong, with many parents and community members expressing their shock and demanding accountability. “It’s horrifying to think that something like this could happen in our school,” said one parent, who wished to remain anonymous. “We trust these educators and coaches with our children’s safety every day, and to see that trust so violently broken is just devastating.”
In addition to the legal actions, the school district is likely to face scrutiny over its hiring practices and the measures it has in place to prevent such incidents. The district has reiterated its commitment to student safety and has assured parents and the community that steps are being taken to prevent future occurrences.
This incident has also raised broader questions about the safeguarding of students in educational institutions. Experts in child psychology and school safety have pointed out the need for rigorous background checks, continuous monitoring of staff behavior, and clear protocols for addressing allegations of abuse.
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While the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Michael Moon and implementing safeguards to prevent similar incidents in the future. The Moon family, supported by their legal team, is determined to see accountability and justice served, not just for their son but for the broader community of students who deserve a safe and nurturing educational environment.
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