Investigation into Allegations of Abuse against Disabled Student in Plano
PLANO – Plano police have initiated an investigation following claims from parents alleging that a former staff member of Plano Independent School District (ISD) abused their disabled daughter.
Background of the Case
The case centers on 18-year-old Saniyah Reese, who is affected by a rare genetic mutation known as GRIN-1, which leads to neurodevelopmental disorders. She is enrolled in special-needs classes at Plano Senior High School.
Concerns about the treatment of Saniyah were raised by her mother, Lestia Nelson, who suspected that her daughter was being mistreated in the school environment. To investigate these suspicions, she placed an audio recording device in Saniyah’s backpack.
Evidence of Alleged Abuse
The audio device reportedly captured distressing sounds described by the family as screams. Additionally, Lestia requested and reviewed video footage from the classroom, which allegedly shows a special education teacher engaging in violent behavior towards Saniyah.
According to the family, the video revealed instances of the educator pulling Saniyah by the neck and bending her fingers backward. Saniyah’s cries can be heard during the incident captured in the recording, heightening concerns about her welfare.
“We caught this, and we don’t know what else happened before this. These are just a couple of moments that were able to catch,” said Alvin Nelson, Saniyah’s father. “She was crying, and she doesn’t cry for nothing,” added Lestia Nelson.
Community Response and School District Actions
Taking their concerns public, Saniyah’s parents attended a Plano ISD board meeting where they expressed their demands for accountability and necessary reforms. “We want accountability, and we want action,” Alvin stated. “They should be able to follow protocols, guidelines, and procedures to protect our kids and educate our kids.”
In response to the allegations, Plano ISD announced that the staff member involved no longer works for the district and has been reported to state authorities. However, the district did not confirm whether the individual was terminated or resigned, nor have any charges been filed against them as of yet.
Ongoing Investigation
The Plano Police Department has confirmed that this matter is under active investigation. However, the identity of the educator involved has not been disclosed, and it remains unclear if criminal charges will be forthcoming.
