Queens teacher accused of assaulting 10-year-old autistic boy

ST. ALBANS (WABC) -- A New York City public school teacher is facing serious charges after he allegedly attacked a 10-year-old autistic boy in his classroom.

And now, the child's family is speaking out, saying they are planning a lawsuit.

Alexander Perry, a 36-year-old teacher at PS 118 in St. Albans, Queens, is charged with assault in connection with the January 23 incident, while the Garrick family is set to sue the Department of Education and the city for $10 million.

"I'm extremely distressed and full of anxiety every time I visualize my son being physically assaulted by a man I trusted to teach him," mom Giovanni Garrick said.

The family's lawyers claim Perry cursed at the boy, who they they call M.B., after the teacher accused him of cheating.

"And was followed thereafter, with Mr. Perry striking M.B. across his face and across his body and injuring him," attorney Derek Sells said.

Giovanni Garrick rushed to the school to find her son being treated for his injuries.

"He was scared," she said. "He was completely terrified, frightened."

Perry was arrested and arraigned on charges of assault, endangering the welfare of a child and harrassment. He was released on his own recognizance.

"The prosecution already announced in open court that the accuser himself denied that Mr. Perry hit him," Perry's attorney said in a statement. "In light of that, Mr. Perry is confident his name will be cleared."

But the family claims that M.B. has personal injuries and severe psychological damage.

"M.B. needed protection," Sells said. "He needed love. He needed patience. Instead, his world has been turned upside down.

The boy is now in another school.

"I'm coping," Giovanni Garrick said. "I'm coping. I'm just grateful that he's alive."