A high school student in North Carolina has been indicted for kidnapping and assault on a government official two weeks after he allegedly slapped and threatened a teacher, whose glasses were knocked off in the attack. The incident, which was captured on video and went viral on social media, showed the student verbally abusing the teacher before physically assaulting her. The Forsyth County District Attorney announced that Aquavis Hickman, 17, has also been indicted for assaulting another teacher at the same school in February. He will be charged as an adult and faces second-degree kidnapping charges and assault on a government official, among other charges.
The DA stated that Hickman threatened to kill the teacher during the incident, leading her to believe the threat was credible. He also faces charges for assaulting a second teacher in February and participating in a riot where the teachers were put in danger. The authorities emphasized that assault on teachers will not be tolerated and that anyone who lays a hand on a teacher can expect swift and severe punishment. They highlighted the importance of protecting teachers and ensuring a safe environment in schools, stating that everyone owes a debt to the teachers who educate them.
Officials at the press conference reiterated the importance of respecting teachers and ensuring their safety. They expressed concern about the increasing incidents of violence involving students and highlighted the need to protect those who educate. The police chief emphasized that schools should not be battlegrounds or boxing rings and that the safety of teachers is paramount. The video of the incident put the community in a negative light, but officials emphasized that such behavior will not be tolerated in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County.
The authorities stated that incidents involving students have increased since 2020 and that teachers are often put in dangerous situations, with some even being forced to use mace on students. They underscored the need for schools to be safe environments where teachers can educate without fear of assault or harm. The community was urged to stand together in support of teachers and to protect those who play a crucial role in shaping the future. The indictments against Hickman serve as a reminder that violence against teachers will not be tolerated, and those responsible will face consequences for their actions.
