Prosecutors Launch Probe Of Holyoke School Abuse Allegations
HOLYOKE, Mass. (AP) — Prosecutors are opening an investigation into the treatment of special needs students at a western Massachusetts school.
Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni said Monday his office and state police are conducting an inquiry into allegations of abuse at the Peck Full Service Community School in Holyoke, Mass.
The Disability Law Center released a report last week alleging disabled students were slapped, punched, shoved, restrained for long periods of time and even placed in dark, locked closets. The report said the treatment often led to bruises and scratches on the children.
The advocacy group opened the investigation after receiving a complaint.
The public school has since hired a new principal and tapped a private company to run its programs serving children with emotional and behavioral disabilities in fourth through eighth grades.
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