BREAKING: A high school principal in Riverview, Florida has been arrested and charged with failing to report child abuse after a disturbing incident involving a 4-year-old at a daycare operated by Spoto High School. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of Jazrick Haggins, 42, on Friday, October 20, 2023, following a thorough investigation.
The investigation began in May 2023, when a 16-year-old allegedly inappropriately touched the young child. Reports indicate that Haggins was informed of the allegations in April 2023, yet he failed to report the incident to the Department of Children and Families and law enforcement for two weeks, violating his duty as a mandatory reporter under state law.
According to the sheriff’s office, Haggins acknowledged knowing about the abuse allegations but claimed he was conducting his own investigation instead of notifying authorities immediately. His actions have raised serious concerns about the safety protocols in place at the school.
Haggins was taken into custody and booked into the Polk County Jail, where he is currently on hold for transfer to Hillsborough County. Authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant about child safety and to report any suspected abuse immediately.
This developing story underscores the critical importance of reporting mechanisms in educational settings, especially when it comes to protecting vulnerable children. As the investigation continues, more details are likely to emerge regarding the steps that led to this grave oversight.
Stay tuned for updates on this urgent situation as authorities release more information.
