Accusations of mistreatment at a private school in Riga
In a concerning turn of events, the parents of a 10-year-old boy have reported several instances of possible emotional abuse to the police. The boy, who previously attended the private school 'Laisma', has been experiencing a significant change in his behaviour over the past school year.
The boy, who was diagnosed with autism in April this year, has been frequently falling ill in the mornings and has been diagnosed with trichotillomania, a form of self-harm that has led to hair pulling. In early February, his mother noticed patches of missing hair on his head.
The alleged perpetrator, a teacher at the school, has been accused of verbally abusing the boy, calling him names like "disgusting" and "stink". The headmistress of the school conducted an investigation but found no evidence to support the parents' claims.
The Ombudsman's Office is now investigating the case, with criminal proceedings initiated under the second part of Article 174 of the Criminal Law regarding cruelty and violence against minors. Valērija Leščinska, senior lawyer at the Children's Rights Division of the Ombudsman's Office, states that cruel treatment is a form of violence that is criminalized if it causes physical or emotional consequences.
Other parents have come forward with similar stories of their children being publicly humiliated or insulted by the same teacher. The teacher in question has denied any allegations of violating children's rights in her work.
Despite the ongoing investigation, the teacher continues to work at the school, indicating that the criminal proceedings are at a very early stage and no one has been charged at this point. The parents have decided to change schools after their son's condition did not improve.
The Ombudsman's Office has emphasized that violence against children is a pressing issue. They urge parents to report any such incidents to ensure the safety and well-being of their children. The name of the teacher suspected in the incident at the private school center 'Laisma' has not been disclosed.
