Michael Bruce Huffman, 41, was arrested in Jackson County after an assault that occurred during an online class was reported to authorities. Huffman, who’s facebook listed him as a paramedic, a 911 dispatcher, and member of a local fire department prior to today, was charged with misdemeanor assault on a female and misdemeanor child abuse.
According to court records, an investigation was launched on August 19 when students and a teacher allegedly witnessed Huffman striking a 13 year old girl while she was on video during an online class. The incident took place during a virtual English class for Fairview Elementary School.
A student in the class began recording when an adult male could be seen to what it appears to place the child in a headlock or wrapping his arm around the child’s jawline. The young student is visibly upset and crying in the video at which point off screen you can see the child be hit in the head.
The recording was turned over to law enforcement and an investigation was launched with the assistance of the Department of Social Services.
The Sylva Police Department consulted with the District Attorney’s Office before charges were placed against Huffman. Huffman was arrested on given a $2,500 unsecured bond and released from custody. According to District Attorney Ashley Welch, as a condition of release, Huffman is not to have any contact with the victim.
Huffman is scheduled to make his first appearance in Jackson County Court on September 1, 2020.
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