Assistant professor allegedly slammed Newport News student’s head against desk: court documents

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — A substitute teacher allegedly slammed a Newport News elementary school student’s head against a desk, according to court documents obtained by News 3.

Sharod Smithen, 31, of Newport News, is charged with assault, according to police.

Watch related coverage: Lawyers say school staff ‘failed to act’ after Menchville student collapses

Lawyers say school staff ‘failed to act’ after Menchville student collapses

The charge stems from an alleged assault that allegedly took place on Wednesday, October 9 at Riverside Elementary School.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Newport News Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, a student claims the teacher “grabbed her neck very hard and slammed her head against the desk.” The complaint also said the principal said Smithen may have “physically assaulted multiple students.”

Watch related coverage: Inappropriate behavior by teachers can cost them their license

Inappropriate behavior by teachers can cause them to lose their teaching license.

Smithen was released on summons and is scheduled to appear in court on October 28.

Newport News Public Schools told News 3 he was removed from his substitute position.

News 3 reached out to Smithen, but he had no comment.