Keller Teacher Charged for Unlawful Restraint of 4-Year-Old Student

Authorities say the teacher held down the autistic child for about 10 minutes during nap time.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:50pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a pair of handcuffs or a teacher's desk bell against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the serious and investigative nature of the alleged incident of unlawful restraint.The alleged unlawful restraint of a young student by a teacher exposes the need for greater oversight and accountability in schools.Dallas Today

A teacher at Shady Grove Elementary in Keller, Texas has been charged with unlawfully restraining a 4-year-old autistic student during nap time. Police say the teacher, Charissa Newport, held down the child for around 10 minutes after a parent reported the incident, and a teacher's aide corroborated the account.

Why it matters

The alleged incident raises concerns about proper protocols for handling young, special needs students and the need for heightened supervision and training for teachers. Unlawful restraint of students can be considered a form of child abuse, and the case highlights the importance of accountability in schools.

The details

According to police, on March 3 a parent reported that their 4-year-old autistic child was held down by a teacher for about 10 minutes during nap time on February 9 at Shady Grove Elementary. A teacher's aide later told the principal that she witnessed Newport restraining the child. Keller police obtained an arrest warrant for Newport on April 1, and she was arrested at her home the same day, booked into the Keller Regional Detention Center, and later released on bond.

  • On February 9, the alleged incident occurred during nap time at Shady Grove Elementary.
  • On March 3, a parent reported the incident to Keller police.
  • On April 1, Keller police obtained an arrest warrant for Charissa Newport.
  • Also on April 1, Newport was arrested at her home.

The players

Charissa Newport

A teacher at Shady Grove Elementary in Keller, Texas who has been charged with unlawfully restraining a 4-year-old autistic student.

Keller Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the incident and charged Charissa Newport with unlawful restraint of a child.

Shady Grove Elementary

The school in Keller, Texas where the alleged incident of a teacher unlawfully restraining a student occurred.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on April 15 whether to allow Charissa Newport to be released on bail pending further legal proceedings.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for rigorous teacher training, clear protocols, and strong oversight to protect vulnerable students, especially those with special needs. School districts must prioritize student safety and ensure teachers are equipped to handle challenging situations appropriately.