TYLER, Texas — In a shocking case that has left the community stunned, three former employees of Tyler High School have been arrested after allegations surfaced that they taped the hands of a student with disabilities together and forced the child to walk around a room for more than four hours. The incident, which occurred earlier this year, has led to charges of injury to a disabled person against the accused individuals.

The accused individuals—Krystina Rena Haas, 35, Prisicilla Gutierrez, 22, and June Renee Tryon, 57—were all employed at Tyler High School at the time of the alleged incident. They were taken into custody on Friday and booked into the Smith County Jail on a $150,000 bond each. However, Haas’ bond was later increased to $300,000 due to the severity of the alleged actions. All three individuals now face serious charges in connection with the abuse of a vulnerable student.

According to arrest documents, the abuse occurred during a school day when the victim, a student with disabilities, was subjected to cruel treatment by the three staff members. The documents state that the individuals allegedly taped the student’s hands together, making it impossible for the child to move freely, and then made the student walk around the room for an extended period of time—more than four hours.

The disturbing nature of the abuse has sparked outrage among the local community, particularly in light of the fact that those involved were trusted members of the school staff. The school district, upon learning of the allegations, immediately launched an investigation into the incident, which led to the arrest of the three individuals. The school district has expressed deep concern over the matter and has vowed to fully cooperate with law enforcement as they continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged abuse.

Details of the Alleged Abuse and Investigation

Authorities have confirmed that the incident occurred in a classroom setting and was reported by a witness who observed the disturbing events. According to the victim’s family, the abuse left the student traumatized and in physical discomfort for hours. The student’s condition, both physically and emotionally, was a major concern for the family, who immediately reported the incident to law enforcement.

The investigation revealed that the victim, who has not been publicly identified, suffers from a disability that requires special accommodations and care. The use of physical restraint and the duration of the abuse have been described as particularly egregious, given the vulnerability of the student involved. The emotional and psychological toll on the child is expected to be addressed in the coming weeks, with ongoing support being provided to the family.

The Tyler Independent School District has released a statement expressing their horror and disbelief over the alleged actions of the employees. “The Tyler Independent School District is fully committed to the safety and well-being of all students,” the statement read. “We are cooperating fully with the authorities and will take any necessary actions to ensure that justice is served. The individuals involved in this incident are no longer employed by the district, and we will work diligently to support the victim and their family during this difficult time.”

Community Reaction and School District Response

The arrest of the three former employees has sent shockwaves through the Tyler community, with many expressing outrage at the reported actions of the school staff. Local residents have taken to social media to share their dismay, with some calling for stricter oversight of how students with disabilities are treated within the school system.

A vigil is planned for next week to support the victim and raise awareness about the treatment of students with disabilities in schools. Local advocacy groups are also calling for increased training for school staff on how to handle students with special needs, stressing the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students.

At a public meeting, parents voiced their concerns, asking for clearer policies on how incidents like this can be prevented in the future. “Our children deserve to feel safe, especially in a school environment,” one parent said during the meeting. “We trust these staff members to care for our kids, and this type of behavior is unacceptable.”

Legal and Social Implications

The legal ramifications for Haas, Gutierrez, and Tryon are still unfolding, with each facing serious charges that could result in significant prison sentences if convicted. Injury to a disabled person is considered a felony under Texas law, and prosecutors are expected to pursue the case aggressively.

The case has also prompted discussions about how schools handle students with disabilities and the importance of maintaining strict protocols to ensure their safety. Disability rights groups are closely monitoring the case, calling for increased awareness and accountability in special education programs across the state.

As the investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward. The Tyler community remains on edge as the legal process plays out, and many are hoping that justice will be served for the victim and their family.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Support

The Tyler High School community is left grappling with the aftershocks of the tragedy, and many are offering their support to the victim and their family. In addition to legal proceedings, the school district has pledged to review and strengthen its policies on student safety, particularly regarding students with disabilities.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the community continues to stand together, hoping for healing and justice in the wake of a tragic and unnecessary act of cruelty.