Due to "insufficient evidence," charges were dropped against Alexia Aliki Bogdis of Millbrae, a special education teacher in the Redwood City School District, who was accused of abusing her students and depriving one of food.
Bogdis taught developmentally challenged and autistic children between the ages of 3 and 5 years old at the special education center adjacent to the Roosevelt Child Development Center in Redwood City.
In December of 2011, Bogdis reportedly "engaged in a series of violent behavior directed at several of the children in the class," which was reportedly witnessed by a few classroom aides. Witnesses previously reported that the violent behavior included slapping, kicking and withholding food from two of her 5-year-old students.
The children could not give statements due to their young ages and developmental conditions.
However, the San Mateo County District Attorney's Office noted Friday that several witnesses, who had been offered immunity by the DA's Office in exchange for their testimony, had "backed off their original statements." Therefore, the DA's Office said "the People moved to dismiss the case due to insufficient evidence."
Bogdis, who turned herself in to authorities on Feb. 4, 2012 after the allegations against her had been made, had been out of custody on $15,000 bail since. Her defense attornies say "she has maintained her innocence the entire time."
The family of at least one of the alleged victims has filed a $1-million lawsuit against the school district.
What do you think of this turn of events in the case? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
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