North Carolina Principal Indicted for Obstructing Investigation into Student with Autism Tied to Chair

Tounya Wright allegedly lied to police about how she received photos of the incident and when she reported it.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:47am

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An elementary school principal in Durham, North Carolina has been indicted on charges of obstructing justice and perjury related to an investigation into a teacher's aide tying a 6-year-old girl with autism to a chair with a jump rope. Authorities allege that Principal Tounya Wright lied about how and when she received the photos of the incident, and participated in a "coordinated effort to deflect liability." Two other administrators were also indicted on obstruction charges.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of school administrators properly reporting and cooperating with investigations into potential child abuse incidents. The alleged actions of Principal Wright and other administrators to cover up or downplay the incident raise concerns about accountability and transparency in schools.

The details

According to the indictment, in November 2024 Principal Tounya Wright received photos depicting a 6-year-old girl with autism tied to a chair with a jump rope at Eno Valley Elementary School. Authorities say Wright initially told police she received the photos anonymously, when in fact a janitor had secretly taken the photos and sent them to a secretary, who then texted them to Wright. Police also say Wright lied about when she received the photos, claiming it was days later than she actually did. In North Carolina, school staff are required to immediately contact law enforcement when informed of potential child abuse.

  • In November 2024, Principal Tounya Wright received photos of a 6-year-old girl with autism tied to a chair.
  • In December 2024, two teacher's aides allegedly involved in the incident resigned.
  • In November 2025, prosecutors dropped charges against one of the teacher's aides after new evidence emerged.
  • In January 2026, Principal Tounya Wright was indicted on three counts of obstructing justice and one count of perjury.

The players

Tounya Wright

The 60-year-old principal of Eno Valley Elementary School in Durham, North Carolina who was indicted for allegedly obstructing the investigation into a teacher's aide tying a student with autism to a chair.

Tanya Janique Giovanni

A deputy superintendent who was also indicted on obstruction charges related to the investigation.

Ayesha Hunter

The senior executive director of employee relations who was indicted on obstruction charges.

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What’s next

Principal Tounya Wright has a court date set for February 5th, where she will face the charges of obstructing justice and perjury.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical importance of school administrators properly reporting and cooperating with investigations into potential child abuse incidents. The alleged actions of Principal Wright and other administrators to cover up or downplay the incident raise serious concerns about accountability and transparency in schools, and the need for stronger oversight and protocols around handling such sensitive matters.