News Summary
Tina Shaw, principal of Green Charter School of the Midlands, has been arrested for failing to report child abuse and facing charges related to allegations against an afterschool director. The case underscores the legal responsibilities of educators in ensuring child safety and raises concerns about the use of public funds for legal defense. This situation is being closely monitored as further victims may emerge, prompting the school to review its safeguarding policies.
Irmo, South Carolina – Tina Shaw, principal of Green Charter School of the Midlands, faces serious legal troubles following her arrest on February 26, 2025, for failing to report child abuse, along with two counts of second-degree assault and battery. These charges are linked to allegations against Sulaymaan Benoit, the school’s afterschool director, who is accused of fondling seven students aged between 5 and 12 years old.
The critical failure-to-report charge arises from claims that Shaw was informed of the abuse allegations on January 30 but did not notify law enforcement as required by South Carolina law. Although she reported the matter to the school’s human resources director and conducted an independent investigation, simply notifying HR does not satisfy the mandated reporter obligation under state law.
Irmo police highlighted that educational professionals are obligated to report known or suspected child abuse directly to appropriate authorities. Police Chief Bobby Dale reiterated the necessity for schools to be safe environments, stressing that mandated reporters must act swiftly in such cases. Following the allegations, Benoit was swiftly terminated from his position.
Shaw has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of her legal proceedings. GREEN Charter Schools has expressed their support for her, despite the ongoing investigation. Following her arrest, the charter network engaged a criminal defense attorney, incurring costs of over $10,000, which has raised concerns about the appropriateness of using public funds to cover the legal costs related to Shaw’s defense.
Shaw’s attorney contends that she acted in good faith and adhered to established school protocol in addressing the allegations. However, legal experts are debating the legality and ethicality of using taxpayer money for her defense. The situation has drawn attention to the responsibilities educators have under the law when it comes to reporting abuse.
A preliminary court hearing affirmed there was probable cause for the charges against Shaw, which will advance the case to General Sessions for further proceedings. The school network has also hired a separate law firm to review its policies and procedures in light of this incident, looking to strengthen their approach to safeguarding student welfare.
The case continues to unfold, with authorities indicating that further victims may emerge as the investigation progresses. This situation has raised crucial questions about the implementation and adherence to mandated reporter laws within educational institutions. The community and parents of the students involved are awaiting further updates as the legal process develops.
The implications of this case extend beyond the immediate legal issues, highlighting the importance of conscientious and proactive measures in schools to ensure the safety and protection of students. Continuing investigations will determine the full extent of the situation and possible additional charges or individuals involved.
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Additional Resources
- Myrtle Beach Online
- Wikipedia: Mandated Reporter
- WIS TV
- Google Search: Child Abuse Reporting Laws
- Fits News
- Google Scholar: Educational Responsibilities Reporting Abuse
- ABC Columbia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Abuse
- Post and Courier
- Google News: Irmo Principal Child Abuse
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
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