Samuel Gaines Academy Teacher Arrested for Child Abuse
Sheriff Ken Mascara announced that Leah Merrique Germain, 38, a teacher at Samuel Gaines Academy was arrested on two counts of child abuse.
According to the Sheriff Merrique Germain observed a student sliding down the banister of the stairwell from a floor above her. She approached the student. Then she grabbed him by the arm and shoved him into the railing and onto the stairs.
The Sheriff said these actions were videoed by a nearby student using their cellphone. Them when the student was noticed by Merrique Germain she grabbed him by the neck. She then shoved him onto the ground. Then she held him down with her body in an attempt to take the phone.
Merrique Germain was arrested this evening at the school and was charged with two counts of cruelty toward a child. She was booked into the St. Lucie County Jail on a $7,500 bond.
