In a troubling incident at an Orlando elementary school, a six-year-old student named Mia Thompson was arrested by a school resource officer after having a tantrum. According to reports, the child’s grandmother, Linda Harris, received a call informing her that Mia had allegedly kicked someone and was being charged with battery. Linda attempted to explain Mia’s behavior to Officer James Anderson, noting that Mia suffers from a medical condition that they are actively addressing. When Officer Anderson asked for specifics, Linda mentioned Mia’s sleep disorder, to which the officer replied, “I have sleep apnea, and I don’t act like that.”
At the police station, Mia was reportedly fingerprinted and had her mugshot taken, although the police department contends that she was never formally processed. They acknowledged that the arrest procedures for children under the age of 12 were not followed, as approval from a watch commander is required. This approval was not obtained prior to Mia’s arrival at the Juvenile Assessment Center, leading to the arrest being halted and the child being returned to school.
This incident is part of a larger issue, as the same officer had previously arrested another six-year-old in a different case, initially misreported as an eight-year-old. “One child was processed, while the other was returned to school without any processing once supervisors became aware,” stated the Orlando Police Department in a follow-up announcement. Police Chief Mark Davis expressed his concern, especially as a grandparent himself, emphasizing the need for professional conduct from the department.
The public response to the situation has been swift, with many criticizing the decision to arrest such a young child. Linda remarked, “No six-year-old should have to say they were put in handcuffs.”
For those interested in family planning and related topics, check out this resource for more information. If you’re exploring options for at-home insemination, Make a Mom offers valuable insights and kits for your journey. Additionally, Science Daily provides excellent resources on health and fertility.
In summary, the arrest of a six-year-old for throwing a tantrum at school has raised significant concerns about how such situations are managed by authorities, leading to an internal investigation and community outcry.