Former WCPSS worker charged with assault on student with disability

Jyl Crockett, a Special Programs Instructional Assistant, was arrested for allegedly assaulting a student at Carnage Middle School.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:37pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a metal handcuff against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, investigative aesthetic through the use of harsh, direct lighting.A harsh, gritty close-up of a handcuff symbolizes the gravity of the criminal charges against a former school employee accused of assaulting a student with a disability.Today in Raleigh

The Wake County Sheriff's Office has charged a former Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) employee, Jyl Crockett, with assault on an individual with a disability. The 57-year-old Special Programs Instructional Assistant at Carnage Middle School was accused of an incident against a student in March, leading to the criminal charge.

Why it matters

Allegations of assault against students, especially those with disabilities, are taken very seriously by law enforcement and the community. This case raises concerns about the treatment of vulnerable students and the need for thorough investigations into any potential misconduct by school staff.

The details

According to the sheriff's office, investigators charged Jyl Crockett with one count of assault on an individual with a disability after receiving a report of an incident against a student by Crockett at Carnage Middle School in March. Crockett turned herself in on Thursday and was processed into the Wake County Detention Center.

  • The alleged incident occurred in March 2026.
  • Crockett was charged on April 2, 2026.

The players

Jyl Crockett

A 57-year-old former Special Programs Instructional Assistant at Carnage Middle School in the Wake County Public School System, who was charged with assault on an individual with a disability.

Wake County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that investigated the incident and filed the criminal charge against Jyl Crockett.

Wake County Public School System (WCPSS)

The school district that employed Jyl Crockett as a Special Programs Instructional Assistant at Carnage Middle School.

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What’s next

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and no other details were immediately available from the sheriff's office.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of all students, especially those with disabilities, within the school system. It underscores the need for thorough vetting, training, and oversight of school staff to prevent any potential abuse or misconduct.