Teacher Arrested in Laurens County for Fraud and Assault

News Summary

In a shocking case from Laurens County, teacher Bryia Lattimore Scott has been arrested on charges of identity fraud and assault involving a special needs child. Scott allegedly impersonated another individual to secure her position at Waterloo Elementary School. Following an anonymous tip, authorities discovered her true identity and subsequent allegations of misconduct. The investigation continues as concerns about school safety rise among parents and the community.

Shocking Arrest of Teacher in Laurens County for Identity Fraud and Assault

In a shocking turn of events, a teacher from Laurens County, South Carolina, was taken into custody following serious allegations that have left both parents and school officials reeling. Bryia Lattimore Scott was arrested on December 19, 2024, for identity fraud, after it was discovered that she had impersonated another person to land a teaching job at Waterloo Elementary School in the Laurens District 55.

How It All Unfolded

The troubles for Scott began when an anonymous tip reached the school principal, raising questions about her true identity. It turned out that Scott had been working at the school since September 2024, all while posing as someone named Viola Church. This impersonation was made possible through her employment with Aya Healthcare, a staffing agency that partners with the school district to provide educational staff.

As the investigation unfolded, more disturbing information came to light. The very next day after her arrest, a parent reported a troubling incident involving Scott and a special needs child. The investigation revealed that on December 18, 2024, Scott had allegedly assaulted this child. Classroom aides, who courageously witnessed the incident, reported it to school administration straight away on the same day.

Consequences and Investigations

Due to the subsequent investigation, Scott faced additional charges. By December 30, she was charged with unlawful conduct toward a child stemming from the assault. The whole situation has been incredibly alarming for everyone involved. Sheriff Don Reynolds of Laurens County emphasized the importance of the aides’ bravery in reporting the alleged abuse, recognizing their role as essential in unraveling this unfortunate case.

After her initial arrest for identity fraud, Scott was released on a $5,000 personal recognizance bond but is no longer employed by the Laurens school district. The community is left with unanswered questions, and many parents are understandably concerned about their children’s safety in the classroom.

Community Reactions

Parents have expressed their shock at the news. One concerned parent, Becca Craine, described Scott as a dedicated teacher who was particularly helpful to her son, who has severe autism. It appears that, for many, the teacher was seen as a valuable member of the educational community, making the situation all the more disheartening.

A spokesperson from Aya Healthcare has stated that the agency is disturbed by the allegations and is fully cooperating with the authorities throughout the ongoing investigation. This indicates that they are taking the matter seriously, and further actions may be expected as the probes dig deeper.

The Road Ahead

As the investigation continues, the school district and law enforcement are working swiftly to ensure that all children are safe and that justice is served. The importance of vigilance in reporting suspicious behavior has never been clearer, and it’s a reminder to parents and community members alike to stay engaged with what’s happening in schools.

This troubling story serves as a wake-up call about the critical nature of proper vetting for teachers and staff who work with children, especially those with special needs. The Laurens community will need to come together during this challenging time, as they process the implications of these events and work towards ensuring a safe and nurturing educational environment for all students.