Star Middle School principal faces felony charges

Star Middle School Principal Tony Nelson was arrested Thursday on two felony counts of injury to a child, the Idaho Press reported Saturday.

The case centers on two children in Nelson’s care at home. On Monday, the Idaho Statesman reported more details on the case, outlining the grand jury indictment against Nelson.

According to the indictment, Nelson is accused of causing two children “unjustifiable physical pain and/or mental suffering” by withholding food and causing malnourishment. The second count accuses Nelson of locking a child in a room for extended periods of time, and striking him in the buttocks and lower back area, leaving bruises.

Nelson was released on $100,000 bond. Nelson is on paid administrative leave, and vice principal Tyler Pence is the school’s acting principal.

 

Kevin Richert

Kevin Richert

Senior reporter and blogger Kevin Richert specializes in education politics and education policy. He has more than 30 years of experience in Idaho journalism. He is a frequent guest on "Idaho Reports" on Idaho Public Television and "Idaho Matters" on Boise State Public Radio. Follow Kevin on Twitter: @KevinRichert. He can be reached at [email protected]

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