EASTPOINTE, Mich. – A former Macomb County school employee pleaded guilty for hitting a first grader with autism.
Kimberley Horen, 53, worked as a paraprofessional at Forest Park Elementary in Eastpointe.
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On Oct. 18, 2024, a parent reported her 6-year-old child with autism was assaulted by a member of the staff at his school. Eastpointe Schools Administration launched an internal investigation and learned Horen removed the child’s shoe and used it to intentionally strike him in the head.
Horen was fired as a result of the incident.
“Paraprofessionals play a vital role in supporting students, particularly those with special needs. When that responsibility is not upheld, it is important that there are consequences. This guilty plea reflects that the defendant’s actions were completely unacceptable. Our office remains committed to protecting all students in Macomb County,” said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido.
Horen pleaded guilty on July 8 to assault and battery, a 93-day misdemeanor. If she successfully completes her 12-month probation, continues anger management counseling and Wyatt’s Law registration, her conviction will be reduced to attempt assault and battery.