EASTPOINTE (WWJ) -- A former Macomb County paraprofessional has pleaded guilty to a charge for striking a young child with a shoe.
Macomb County Prosecutor Pete Lucido announced Kimberly Horen, 55 of Eastpointe, pled guilty as charged to Assault and Battery, a 93-day misdemeanor.
According to prosecutors, a parent reported her child was assaulted by a member of the staff at Forest Park Elementary in Eastpointe on October 18, 2024. An internal investigation by Eastpointe Schools Administration found Horen had allegedly removed the 6-year-old child's shoe and struck him on the head with it.
The child has autism, according to prosecutors.
Horen was fired as a result of the incident.
Prosecutors said her conviction will be reduced to Attempted Assault and Battery if she completes 12 months of probation, continues anger management counseling and complies with Wyatt's Law registration.
She is due back in court for a pre-sentencing hearing on September 19.
“Paraprofessionals play a vital role in supporting students, particularly those with special needs. When that responsibility is not upheld, it is important that there are consequences," Prosecutor Lucido said. "This guilty plea reflects that the defendant’s actions were completely unacceptable. Our office remains committed to protecting all students in Macomb County."