Three elementary school employees charged following Smyrna investigation
SMYRNA, Del. — Three elementary school workers in Smyrna, Delaware, have been arrested on allegations of child abuse in a special needs classroom. The suspects are accused of physically and verbally mistreating students, including feeding spicy snacks to a child with a known digestive disability, according to police.
The investigation began in February 2024 and involved collaboration between Smyrna Police, the Delaware Department of Justice, and the Smyrna School District. Authorities also uncovered a separate incident from the fall of 2022 involving two of the suspects.
Timeline of Events
The allegations came to light in early 2024 when reports of mistreatment in a special needs classroom prompted an investigation. During their inquiry, police discovered that employees had allegedly thrown objects at students, yelled at them, and called them derogatory names. In one instance, a suspect reportedly struck a student in the face and sprayed the child with water as a form of discipline.
A separate incident from 2022 revealed that two workers had fed hot sauce and spicy Takis to a student with a medical condition that affects digestion. Police said these actions violated the child’s well-being and medical needs.
Details of Allegations and Charges
The suspects, all employed at the same Smyrna school, face multiple charges:
- Marrisa Johnson, 26, Smyrna: Charged with 10 counts of endangering the welfare of a child. She was released on a $10,000 unsecured bond with no-contact orders.
- Makayla Lomax, 31, Smyrna: Charged with child abuse in the third degree, nine counts of endangering the welfare of a child, and offensive touching. Lomax was released on a $12,500 unsecured bond with no-contact orders.
- Morgan Donahue, 21, Clayton: Charged with one count of endangering the welfare of a child and released on a $500 unsecured bond with no-contact orders.
“All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt,” Smyrna Police Chief William Donovan said in a statement.
Community Response
Parents and advocacy groups expressed outrage over the allegations, calling for stronger safeguards to protect vulnerable students.
“This is unacceptable. Our children deserve a safe and nurturing environment, especially those with special needs,” said Karen Hayes, director of a local disability rights organization.
The Smyrna School District issued a statement confirming that the individuals involved are no longer employed.
“We take these allegations seriously and remain committed to providing a safe environment for all students,” the district said.
Next Steps
The suspects are scheduled to appear in court later this month. Authorities are encouraging anyone with additional information about the case to contact Smyrna Police. Meanwhile, the school district is reviewing its policies and implementing staff training to prevent similar incidents.