An off-duty Wisconsin police officer working as a substitute teacher in Woodbury, Minnesota, is being investigated for re-enacting the murder of George Floyd, making racially harmful comments, and physically harming a student in class. The officer, Steve Williams, was removed from the classroom and placed on administrative leave by the Prescott Police Department. The incident, which occurred during English classes at Woodbury High School, is described as “reprehensible” by school officials. Williams allegedly made racist comments, shared graphic details about his work as a police officer, and engaged in inappropriate physical demonstrations in class.
The allegations against Williams are considered very disturbing by both the city of Prescott and the Prescott Police Department, who do not condone his actions. The staffing agency that placed him at the school stated that he no longer works for them due to his behavior. The school district, city officials, and the Minnesota Department of Education are working together to investigate the incident fully. School officials are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students and are taking steps to address the situation appropriately.
The incident has raised concerns within the community and has prompted discussions around race, policing, and appropriate behavior in an educational setting. Woodbury is a diverse community, with a significant portion of students identifying as a race other than white. The actions of Williams have sparked outrage and calls for accountability within the school district and the law enforcement community.
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