Father Alleges 6-Year-Old Son Hogtied in School Van, Investigation Underway

BREAKING: A Cincinnati father is raising alarm after receiving disturbing photos of his 6-year-old son hogtied with socks inside a school van. The incident, which took place on November 7, 2025, at Roberts Academy, has prompted both a district and police investigation.

According to reports from the Cincinnati Enquirer, the child was being transported to an after-school program focused on behavioral support when he was restrained. The boy reportedly had an outburst on the playground, leading to a confrontation with staff. In an email shared with the child’s aunt, the teacher detailed that the boy, upset, began hitting and kicking a teacher before threatening to kill them.

In response to the escalating situation, an administrator suggested physical restraint. Initially, the teacher attempted to manage the child by turning his coat backwards, but when that failed, a security guard used tube socks from the van to tie the child’s wrists and ankles. The boy’s father, Gabriel Perry, revealed that his son nonchalantly remarked, “‘Daddy, at least the socks weren’t dirty. They were clean socks.'”

Cincinnati Public Schools Superintendent Shauna Murphy addressed the concerns in a letter to families, stating that the situation is “concerning” and that appropriate measures are being taken to review the incident. The district is currently investigating the use of restraint, as Ohio law mandates that such actions be utilized only as a last resort when there is an immediate risk of harm.

An official statement from the district confirmed that staff members at Kids Thrive, the behavioral program involved, documented the restraints and promptly reached out to the family. However, Perry expressed frustration that no one from Roberts Academy contacted him during the incident.

This shocking event highlights critical issues surrounding the treatment of children in school environments, especially those requiring behavioral assistance. Authorities stress the importance of addressing such matters swiftly, with public safety and child welfare as top priorities.

As investigations continue, many are watching closely to see what actions will be taken against the staff involved and how the district plans to prevent future incidents. The emotional toll of this event is significant, not only for the boy and his family but for the entire community.

Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds.