Substitute Teacher Charged After Altercation with Student in Hillsborough County

In a concerning incident in Hillsborough County, Florida, a substitute teacher is facing legal troubles following a confrontation with a 14-year-old student. The accused, 26-year-old Benjamin Barnes, has been charged with battery after allegedly engaging in a heated argument with the student.

Details of the Incident

According to reports from local authorities, the altercation escalated when Barnes reportedly used racially charged language. It culminated with him forcibly taking the student’s phone. The exchange appears to have stemmed from an unknown disagreement, although the specifics of their argument remain unclear.

Background of the Substitute Teacher

Benjamin Barnes is not directly employed by Hillsborough County Schools; instead, he is a substitute teacher affiliated with Kelly Services, a third-party staffing company that provides educational support staff.

Legal Consequences

As a result of this incident, Barnes has been formally charged with battery. The case underscores the importance of maintaining respectful and safe environments within educational settings, particularly concerning interactions between educators and students.

This incident has raised questions about the conduct of substitute teachers and the protocols in place to ensure student safety in schools.