A 42-year-old mother from Florida is facing criminal charges following an alarming incident at Port Charlotte High School. Tarajayne Samuels-Catalan is accused of attempting to strike a high school staff member with her vehicle during a morning drop-off on November 2, leaving the school community in shock.
According to authorities, the incident unfolded when Samuels-Catalan tried to exit the school's parking lot by going in the wrong direction. A staff member promptly intervened, informing her that she could not use that exit due to incoming school buses.
The situation escalated as an exchange between Samuels-Catalan and the staff member unfolded. Eventually, she reversed her vehicle and appeared to be complying with the instructions. However, a school bus had to wait for her to clear the way.
When the bus finally passed, the situation took a dangerous turn. Samuels-Catalan suddenly accelerated her vehicle toward the staff member, revving the engine and putting him in immediate danger. In a desperate bid to avoid the oncoming vehicle, the staff member had no choice but to dive into nearby bushes.
The shaken staff member quickly reported the incident, providing crucial details, including the suspect's license plate. An investigation was promptly launched, and authorities were able to corroborate the incident with the help of a witness and security footage.
Samuels-Catalan, however, denied any intention to harm the staff member and claimed that her preference for using the entry area was to avoid speed bumps that could damage her vehicle.
Sheriff Bill Prummell of Charlotte County emphasized the importance of safety in school zones, saying, "The pick-up and drop-off lines at the schools are frustrating at times, but we absolutely will not cut corners on ensuring the safety of the students and staff. I am glad that our victim here is uninjured, and I hope that this mother rethinks the example she is setting for her child."
As a result of her actions, Samuels-Catalan has been charged with aggravated assault on a public or private education employee. She is currently being held without bond at the Charlotte County Jail.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for patience and caution in school zones, where the safety of students and staff should always take precedence. Authorities are actively working to ensure the security of educational environments, and incidents like these are taken seriously to maintain a safe learning environment for all.
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