February 7, 2025
POMPANO BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - A security guard at Blanche Ely High School in Pompano Beach was arrested for allegedly hitting a student.
Ronald Thurston was arrested Thursday on aggravated child abuse and battery charges after he was accused of hitting a student while on school property.
On Friday morning, Thurston appeared in court where a judge found probable cause.
Parents and students were shocked to learn about the allegation, many of them saying his actions are contrary to what he’s supposed to be doing: ensuring the safety of all students.
“He’s security, so he should not be putting his hands on these kids,” said a woman.
“It’s a shame, because that’s what they have security guards for: to protect the kids, not to harm the kids,” said another woman.
“They say he was beating on the kids. He was breaking up fights and stuff, but doing it way too aggressive,” said Nahla, a student.
“His way of talking is aggressive. It’s like he wants to be calm, but something in him is kind of aggressive,” said student Bryan Sanchez.
This is not Thurston’s first offense. As a former Broward Sheriff’s Office deputy, he was terminated after a use of excessive force against a man he was taking into custody back in April 2020.
“Get on the ground, get on the ground,” said Thurston on body camera footage.
After the incident, Broward Sherriff Gregory Tony wrote in part, “His actions show that he possesses neither the temperament nor the decision-making ability to wear a badge or carry a gun.”
Nearly five years later, Thurston is facing trouble again for harming the very students he was hired to protect.
“I’m scared,” said a woman.
“That’s crazy, because that security guard used to be friendly with everyone, like everyone loved him. He was so cool!” said student Kanzah Rizbi.
Broward County Public Schools confirmed that Thurston was a security guard and is being reassigned pending the outcome of the investigation. His new role will not allow him to have direct contact with students.
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