Speech Therapist Accused of Assaulting Autistic Child During Session
SONORA, CA — A speech therapist has been arrested for allegedly assaulting a neurodivergent child during a therapy session, police say.
According to a press release by the Sonora Police Department, authorities began investigating after receiving a report from the parents of a 7-year-old child with autism. Police also received a report from the child’s school.
Authorities say the alleged assault happened on January 23, but was not reported to police until Monday, Feb. 3. Due to the severity of the allegations, police launched a criminal investigation the following morning.
Investigators identified the suspect as Mary McGrew, 50.
On Thursday, Feb. 6, McGrew was arrested on suspicion of child abuse and battery on school grounds, police said.
As the investigation is ongoing, police have opted not to release additional details about the case.
Anyone with information relevant to the incident or the investigation is encouraged to contact Detective Brickley at 209-532-8141.
