Whew! Erin Wheeler, as soon as celebrated as “Teacher of the Year” at South Carolina Whitmore School, is now making headlines for a really totally different purpose. Authorities arrested the 34-year-old particular schooling trainer after she allegedly punched a baby, sparking shock throughout the neighborhood. Law enforcement says the alleged assault didn’t contain any of her college students and didn’t happen on college property, however the expenses are critical.
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Teacher Of The Year Accused Of Assaulting Child
According to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, the alleged incident befell on November 27, 2025. Erin Wheeler reportedly struck the kid within the brow, then allegedly adopted them into a rest room and continued to punch them within the brow and higher physique. The little one sustained bruises whereas trying to dam the blows. Law enforcement charged Wheeler with one depend of illegal neglect of a kid, a cost that carries a possible sentence of as much as 10 years in jail.
Wheeler’s Arrest Stuns Community After Previous Accolades
During a Jan. 15 listening to, a choose set Wheeler’s bond at $2,500 and issued a no-contact order between her and the kid or their household. The child’s mother reportedly criticized the low bond, whereas Wheeler’s legal professional referred to as her “a shining determine locally.” The controversy comes amid a pointy distinction to her public picture simply final yr.
In March 2025, Wheeler was named South Carolina Whitmore School’s “Teacher of the Year.” At the time, principal Eboné Adams praised her “deep compassion for her college students” and described her as an “unwavering” advocate who earned the belief of households and colleagues alike. Her recognition highlighted her function on varied committees and her contributions to serving to college students throughout the state succeed.
Wheeler On Leave As Investigation Moves Forward
Since her arrest, Wheeler has been placed on paid administrative depart pending an investigation. The college issued a press release clarifying that the alleged incident didn’t contain any college students or college property, and emphasised their dedication to reviewing the scenario totally. Lexington County court docket data point out that the cost towards Wheeler falls beneath a statute that criminalizes inserting a baby in danger or inflicting hurt, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations. As the case strikes ahead, Wheeler faces the potential for a decade behind bars if convicted.
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