Teacher accused of choking and dragging student

BAKER, LA (WAFB) - A teacher faces cruelty charges after allegedly choking a 6-year-old student and then dragging her to the principal's office.

The Baker Police Department said Mildred Russ, 65, of Baton Rouge was arrested on a charge of cruelty to a juvenile.

Investigators said the incident happened on the playground of the campus during recess.

They did not name the school.

Police said witnesses told them Russ first wrapped her legs around the girl to keep her from moving.

The teacher then reportedly put the child's sweater around her neck and squeezed every time the girl tried to move.

Witnesses said Russ violently dragged the girl to the office, pulling her out of her shoes in the process.

Russ was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison.

Bond information was not provided.