ASHLEY TERRY
A former special education teacher at Azle High School has been arrested and charged with assault of a disabled student.
According to a statement from Azle Independent School District that was sent to parents April 20, an incident involving teacher Sawyer Stinchfield, 34, occurred Thursday, April 9. After an investigation was conducted by AISD, Stinchfield was placed on leave, and the district reported the incident to law enforcement and other state reporting agencies. AISD officials also notified all parents in the teacher’s classroom about the incident and stated that Stinchfield had since resigned and will not be returning to the district.
In a press release issued by the Azle Police Department, Interim Chief of Police Kevin Rogers said officers arrived at AHS Monday, April 13 to conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged incident. Based on the findings, an arrest warrant was issued for Stinchfield on a charge of Assault Against an Elderly or Disabled Individual, which Rogers stated is a “Class A misdemeanor under Texas law.”
Rogers told The Azle News the incident came to light during a review of surveillance footage and clarified that the alleged assault did not involve a fist or any type of object.
Stinchfield was subsequently taken into custody for the warrant, and the case has been formally filed with the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office for review and prosecution. As of April 22, Stinchfield remains in custody at the Tarrant County jail in lieu of a $3,000 cash bond.
“The Azle Police Department continues to work closely with school officials to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff,” Rogers’ press release reads. “Due to the ongoing legal process, no additional details will be released at this time.”
Officials with Azle ISD stated the district is working in full cooperation with APD and will continue to do so as the investigation moves forward.
“Azle ISD does not tolerate conduct that jeopardizes student safety or dignity and remains committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students,” the release to parents reads.
Anyone with information or concerns regarding this case or related offenses is asked to contact the Azle Police Department at 817-444-3221.
