Autauga County, Ala. (WDNews) — According to the Autauga County Sheriff’s Office, three former Billingsley School employees have been arrested following a child abuse investigation involving a self-contained special needs classroom.
Authorities said former teacher Kendra Spencer and former teacher aides Jennifer Davis and Shayla Johnson were arrested after an extensive investigation into allegations involving children assigned to the classroom.
According to the sheriff’s office, the investigation began after abuse allegations were reported to law enforcement and the school board. Investigators and Autauga County School Board employees reviewed hundreds of hours of surveillance video and other evidence before charges were filed. Officials said video evidence documenting the alleged abuse was obtained during the investigation.
Two of the three defendants voluntarily turned themselves in to authorities, while the third was taken into custody without incident.
“This investigation required an extraordinary amount of time and resources due to the extensive video evidence that had to be carefully reviewed,” said Sheriff Mark Harrell. “Our investigators worked diligently to ensure every allegation was thoroughly examined and properly documented with the help of the School Board. The School Board immediately removed the individuals from the classroom once allegations were alleged. We appreciate the working relationship with the Autauga County School Board to keep our kids safe.”
According to the sheriff’s office, the investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional charges could be forthcoming as more video evidence is reviewed.
Anyone with additional information related to the investigation is encouraged to contact the Autauga County Sheriff’s Office at (334) 361-2500.
All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
