A teacher at the Putnam Academy of Arts and Science School in Palatka, Florida, was arrested following accusations of causing injury to a 12-year-old student during an incident on Monday. The reported assault, involving the teacher, James Bellamy, allegedly occurred when he elbowed the student, causing the loss of a tooth, and threw a basketball at him during a fit of anger.
The Palatka Police Department became aware of the incident around 4:20 p.m. on Monday when they responded to a battery report at a residence on Belmont Drive. The victim’s mother informed the officers that her 12-year-old son had been assaulted by Bellamy earlier that day. She had viewed a video showing her son and Bellamy engaged in a basketball game, where Bellamy threw the ball at the child and subsequently elbowed him in the mouth, resulting in the loss of a tooth.
Upon speaking with the victim, officers confirmed the details provided by his mother. The child explained that Bellamy became upset, believing the child had intentionally struck his arm or head during their game. Bellamy then called the student back onto the court, threw the ball at him, and intentionally struck him in the face with his elbow, causing the tooth to be knocked out.
Authorities proceeded to Napoleon Street, where they located Bellamy, advised him of his rights, and questioned him about the incident. Bellamy admitted to playing basketball with students and claimed that the elbow contact was unintentional when he threw the ball at the victim in response to being hit during the game.
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James Bellamy was subsequently arrested for child abuse and battery. He was booked into the Putnam County Jail and is currently held without bond. The investigation into the alleged assault is ongoing, with no court date announced as of now.