A Tennessee school principal is facing serious allegations involving her own teenage son. The details surrounding what reportedly happened inside her home have sparked major concern. The situation involving Janelle Brooks, 38, has now moved from a family dispute to a criminal case. Brooks is the principal of Warner Arts Magnet Elementary School in Nashville. Authorities accuse her of conduct that allegedly left her 13-year-old son struggling to breathe.
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What Sparked The Investigation Into Janelle Brooks?
According to court records and reports from local outlets, Brooks was arrested last week and charged with one count of aggravated domestic assault. The case reportedly came to light after Brooks’ ex-husband, who is the boy’s father, contacted the Portland Police Department with concerns about the safety of their children while they were staying with their mother. He initially told authorities he was concerned about Brooks’ boyfriend allegedly disciplining the children without his permission.
Here’s What The Teen Allegedly Told Police
The 13-year-old reportedly told police that his mother ordered him to leave the home, but would not allow him to take clothing or other belongings she had purchased for him. As a result, the teen was allegedly left wearing only his underwear. He then reportedly told investigators that Brooks retrieved a paddle and struck him several times on the legs before allegedly grabbing him by the neck and squeezing until he was “wheezing” for air, according to reports citing the arrest affidavit.
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The teen reportedly told investigators that he did not contact police right away because he was not allowed to access a phone or other electronic devices while staying at his mother’s home. During an interview with detectives, the principal allegedly acknowledged using a paddle to discipline her son. She reportedly said he had disrespected her and refused to be paddled.
According to the affidavit, Brooks told investigators that she then told her son he could leave the home. However, she said he could not take items she had personally purchased for him. Brooks also reportedly acknowledged putting her hands around her son’s throat. She claimed the teen had “swelled up at her” and grabbed her arms while trying to block her.
Brooks Placed On Leave As Case Moves Forward
Following Brooks’ Aug. 20 arrest, Metro Nashville Public Schools announced that she had been placed on administrative leave. The district said the move comes as an external investigation takes place. Officials reportedly emphasized to parents that the allegations were unrelated to Brooks’ role at Warner Arts Magnet Elementary School or the school’s daily operations. According to court records, Brooks was released from Sumner County Jail on Aug. 21 after posting a $15,000 bond. She was also reportedly served with an order of protection. Brooks is scheduled to make her first court appearance on Sept. 4.
