CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. — A Chesterfield early learning teacher was found not guilty Tuesday morning of assaulting a student.
Jennifer Repole, 50, was charged after an incident involving a boy outside Chester Early Childhood Learning Academy during school release on April 6.
Tuesday's trial began with two surveillance videos shown in court. The videos showed Repole walking a group of students to a bus. As the group approached the bus, a boy bit Repole. Repole reacted by kicking the boy and grabbing his jaw.
The court then heard Repole say, "You bite me again, see what happens. I'll bite you back next time."
The prosecution called two witnesses to the stand. Detective Neville, who interviewed Repole after the incident, testified Tuesday that he believed the statement was a threat to the child.
The Commonwealth also called Chester Early Childhood Learning Academy Principal Dr. Lesley Harris. Harris testified that Repole had daily contact with the student for about 30 minutes during dismissal. Harris said she was not aware whether Repole knew about the student's communication and developmental delays at the time of the incident, but testified that a student's primary teacher would typically alert staff if accommodations or special considerations were needed.
After the prosecution rested, the defense made a motion to strike, arguing the evidence presented was not sufficient to sustain a conviction.
After hearing arguments, the Judge J. David Rigler said, "When you look at it, it doesn't look good."
However, Judge Rigler later added, "That's a discipline issue for the school," saying he was having a hard time seeing unreasonable force. While Judge Rigler called Repole's comment after being bitten "absolutely inappropriate," he found her not guilty of the criminal charges.
Repole's attorney, Lawrence Drombetta, praised the judge's decision.
"Most importantly I think is when she was found not guilty or how. It was after the motion to strike was made. We didn't have to put on any evidence," Drombetta said. "And that is sure a blessing for her. I know it's a salacious allegation that was made against her. But obviously this is a vindication for her today."
CBS 6 reached out to Chesterfield County Public Schools for comment and is waiting to hear back.
Repole remains on administrative leave. It is unclear when or if she will return to her job.
This is a developing story. Email the CBS 6 Newsroom if you have additional information to share.
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