Albany, NY – Shockwaves reverberated through the community as an elementary school teacher at KIPP Albany Community Public Charter School, Francine Ruffin, found herself at the center of a criminal case and civil lawsuit. Disturbing allegations of strangling a 6-year-old student have left the child’s family devastated and seeking justice. Both the teacher and the school have been named as defendants in the ongoing legal proceedings.
The incident unfolded within the walls of the school when the young student, identified as ‘P.S.’ in legal documents, was innocently waiting in line for the bathroom. Troubled by the persistent bullying from fellow students, P.S. bravely requested that they cease their torment. It was at this moment that the situation took a horrifying turn. According to the lawsuit, Francine Ruffin allegedly launched into a violent outburst, tightly gripping the child’s wrist and neck, causing her nails to puncture the delicate skin. To exacerbate the distress, Ruffin purportedly lifted the child off the ground by their neck and arms, before confining them to a closet. Unsettlingly, the lawsuit claims that this was not an isolated incident, asserting that Ruffin had subjected other students to similar punishments in the past.
What is even more disheartening is the alleged mishandling of the situation by the school’s administration. When P.S. bravely approached the principal to report the incident, their plea for help was met with disbelief. Shockingly, instead of taking swift and decisive action, the teacher responsible for the abuse was allowed to remain in contact with the child. The only response provided was a mere Band-Aid to cover up the physical evidence of the assault. It wasn’t until the child returned home and recounted the traumatizing encounter to their mother that the true extent of the incident came to light. Appalled by the lack of communication from the school, the mother promptly involved law enforcement and visited the school the following day to demand justice.
The gravity of the situation prompted the Albany Police to take immediate action, resulting in the arrest of Francine Ruffin. She now faces charges of second-degree strangulation, a felony offense, and endangering the welfare of a child, classified as a misdemeanor. The arrest report, in alignment with the allegations outlined in the lawsuit, paints a disturbing picture of the events that transpired within the school premises.
KIPP Capital Region Schools, the overseeing authority for the school, released a statement expressing their swift response upon learning of the allegations. Confirming the suspension and subsequent termination of the accused teacher, they emphasized their unwavering commitment to the safety of students and staff members. The school administration has pledged full cooperation with external investigations, recognizing the importance of transparency and accountability.
Simultaneously, the child’s family has filed a civil lawsuit seeking justice and holding the responsible parties accountable. The lawsuit encompasses charges of assault, negligence, battery, and emotional distress. While the family aims to obtain compensation for the damages suffered, the specific amount has not yet been disclosed.
In a counterclaim, Ruffin’s defense attorney asserts that the incident has been blown out of proportion. Denying the accusations of strangulation, the defense argues that the child was merely placed in a room with toys rather than a closet. Moreover, the defense attorney highlights Ruffin’s established reputation as a dedicated educator, seeking to present a contrasting narrative.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the young student has been transferred to a public school and is currently undergoing counseling to aid their recovery from the traumatic experience. This case serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for students.
Last Known Contact Information
Home: 4023B Doorstone Dr. Latham, NY 12110
Phone: 518-258-6128
Email: KILLAEM06@YAHOO.COM
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/francine.ruffin.9
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