Ohio students, teacher charged after police say disabled boy bullied in gym class

PARMA, Ohio -- A substitute teacher and five students at a suburban Cleveland high school face charges after police say a 14-year-old developmentally disabled boy was bullied in gym class.

Police say the boy was knocked down by a volleyball thrown at his head last month at Parma Senior High School. One student then allegedly kicked the victim and another dragged him around by his feet.

CBS affiliate WOIO reports that after the ball struck the boy, the disoriented victim staggered back to his feet, at which point a 13-year-old girl kicked him in the groin, causing him to fall to the floor again.

Police say 49-year-old Gregg Mellinger continued class in another part of the gym as the victim remained on the floor.

Mellinger, of North Ridgeville, was charged last week with child endangering. He didn't immediately return a phone call Monday.

Three students face juvenile charges of assault and two students are charged with disorderly conduct.

Authorities say the boy wasn't seriously injured. School officials called the conduct unacceptable.

WOIO reports that Parma Schools released a statement that read in part:

"In addition to any potential legal consequences from the Police Department, the District is conducting its own school investigation and will take any necessary steps consistent with district policy. This type of conduct is unacceptable and our district remains committed to ensuring that all of our students are provided a safe learning environment. We will continue cooperating with the proper authorities in this matter."