Former Manatee Teacher Aides Sentenced to Probation in Student Restraint Case
Two former Manatee County teacher aides accused of restraining a 7-year-old autistic student at G.D. Rogers Garden-Bullock Elementary School will not serve jail time, according to court records.
Taylor-Joy Internicola, 40, and Hydalmy Ortiz, 42, were sentenced to probation and community labor following the incident that occurred last year involving a nonverbal student. Both were previously charged in connection with tying up the child while employed at the school.
The case drew attention to student safety and restraint policies within the Manatee County School District, prompting internal reviews of staff training and procedures for working with students with disabilities.
Court documents show that neither Internicola nor Ortiz will face incarceration as part of the plea outcome. Instead, each will complete community service and remain under probationary supervision for a specified period.
The school district previously confirmed that both aides were removed from their positions following the incident. The Florida Department of Education’s Office of Professional Practices Services is expected to review the case to determine any additional disciplinary actions regarding their eligibility to work in public schools.
The Manatee County School District has since reiterated its commitment to student welfare, emphasizing compliance with state laws governing the restraint and seclusion of students with disabilities.
