URGENT UPDATE: A high school principal has been arrested and charged with failure to report child abuse in a shocking case that has rocked the Riverview community. Jazrick Haggins, the principal of Spoto High School, was taken into custody on Friday after authorities revealed serious allegations involving a 4-year-old child.
The investigation, initiated in May 2023, uncovered that a 16-year-old student inappropriately touched the young child while attending daycare at the high school’s facility. Alarmingly, Haggins was informed of the incident in April 2023 but failed to report it to the Department of Children and Families and law enforcement for over two weeks, violating mandatory reporting laws designed to protect children.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Haggins acknowledged he was aware of the allegations but claimed he was conducting his own investigation. This decision has raised significant concerns about the responsibilities of educators to safeguard vulnerable children.
Haggins, aged 42, is now facing serious legal repercussions. Following his arrest, he was booked into the Polk County Jail and is currently awaiting transfer to Hillsborough County. His actions, which are now under scrutiny, highlight the critical importance of adhering to child protection laws.
The community is grappling with the implications of this case as parents express outrage and concern for their children’s safety. Many are calling for stricter measures to ensure that educators fulfill their legal obligations to report abuse.
As this story develops, local authorities are emphasizing the importance of vigilance in safeguarding children. The next steps involve a thorough review of the case and potential legal proceedings against Haggins.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent situation that has captured the attention of Riverview and beyond.
