Pinellas County Schools' Employee Arrested For Child Abuse (25-112)

LARGO – Deputies assigned to the Patrol Operations Bureau arrested a Pinellas County Schools' employee for Child Abuse.

According to deputies, on September 15, 2025, 65-year-old David Jones was working as a substitute classroom assistant at Oakhurst Elementary School, assigned to a special needs classroom.  After lunch, the 6-year-old victim, who is autistic and semi-verbal, was hitting and kicking as a sign of communication. Deputies say Jones swung a lunch box containing a metal canister, striking the victim in the face and causing a welt on the victim’s forehead.

On September 16, 2025, deputies say Jones admitted to the incident and stated it was a “knee jerk” reaction when dealing with the victim whom he knew was special needs. Jones was arrested and charged with one count of Child Abuse. He was transported to the Pinellas County Jail.

Any questions regarding Jones’ employment should be directed towards Pinellas County Schools.

The investigation continues.

Additional Information:

David Jones (Suspect – Arrested)
Age: 65
Charge: Child Abuse

Per Florida Statute 119.071(2)(h)1, no further details will be released that would tend to identify the 6-year-old victim.