BLOOMINGTON – A former special education aide at Jackson Creek Middle School in Bloomington has been charged with battery to a disabled person after allegedly assaulting a student on January 28, 2025.
Darren Eads, 33, faces a Level 5 felony charge after surveillance footage reportedly captured him twisting a student’s fingers without provocation in a school hallway. The incident caused the student immediate distress, attracting the attention of nearby staff, who noted the “fear” on the victim’s face.
Additional security footage revealed a separate incident where Eads allegedly attempted to trip the same student, who was using the wall for support while walking. Court documents indicate Eads had previously faced an unsubstantiated allegation of physical contact with another student before transferring from Bloomington High School.
The Monroe County Community School Corporation acted swiftly upon learning of the incident, placing Eads on immediate leave and notifying the Department of Child Services. He was terminated from his position on January 30.
“The safety and security of our students is the highest priority to the MCCSC,” the school corporation stated, adding they continue cooperating with law enforcement’s investigation.
Eads has been released on bond. If convicted, he could face up to six years in prison for the Level 5 felony charge.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent unless convicted through due legal proceedings. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
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