Alabama Teacher of the Year Arrested After Viral Video Shows Alleged Child Abuse

A former Alabama Teacher of the Year is facing felony charges after a disturbing video went public. Randi Nicole Staples, a second-grade teacher, was arrested in Mobile on November 16. The arrest followed a viral video that allegedly shows her beating her 12-year-old son with a belt.

The incident has shocked the local community and sparked a broader conversation about discipline and abuse. According to authorities, the footage depicted actions that went far beyond reasonable corporal punishment.

Disturbing Video Leads to Swift Arrest

The video was reportedly recorded by one of Staples’ children and sent to her adult son, Jackson Staples. He then made the footage public. It shows the 44-year-old repeatedly striking the boy with a belt.

The footage also shows her pulling the child’s hair and slamming him to the floor. The woman is heard yelling and swearing at the sobbing child during the altercation. Jackson Staples told media outlets, including Fox 10, that the incident began over unfinished kitchen chores.

Mobile County Sheriff Paul Burch described the acts in the video as “egregious.” He confirmed that while parents have a right to discipline their children, this was different. Sheriff Burch stated the actions “went well beyond discipline. It was abuse.”

Fallout for the Former Educator

Staples was quickly fired from her position at Cottage Hill Christian Academy. The private school issued a statement confirming her termination. They emphasized acting promptly to protect their school community’s safety and integrity.

Staples had been honored as Teacher of the Year just months earlier, in May 2025. Her rapid fall from a respected educator to an arrested individual has stunned parents and colleagues. The case highlights how a single moment can unravel a carefully built career.

She was charged with willful abuse of a child, a felony. Staples was booked into jail and released a few days later on a $7,500 bond. Her legal battles are now just beginning.

Legal Proceedings and Plea

Through her attorney, Louis Hale Jr., Randi Nicole Staples has entered a plea of not guilty. Court filings show she has also requested a preliminary hearing. This will be the next major step in the judicial process.

The case is being closely monitored by child protection advocates and the public. Her status as a former award-winning teacher adds a significant layer of public interest and scrutiny. The outcome will likely have lasting implications for her and her family.

The case of the Alabama Teacher of the Year arrested for alleged abuse serves as a stark reminder of the fine line between discipline and criminal conduct. The community now watches as the legal system determines the final outcome.

Thought you’d like to know

What charges does Randi Staples face?

She faces a felony charge of willful abuse of a child. The charge stems directly from the evidence in the viral video.

Where did Randi Staples teach?

She was a second-grade teacher at Cottage Hill Christian Academy in Mobile, Alabama. The school terminated her employment following the investigation.

Has Randi Staples pleaded guilty?

No, she has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Her lawyer submitted the plea on her behalf in court documents.

Who released the video of the incident?

The video was released by her adult son, Jackson Staples. He stated he received the footage from a younger sibling who recorded it.

What was the official reaction from law enforcement?

Mobile County Sheriff Paul Burch condemned the actions. He clearly distinguished the incident from acceptable discipline, calling it abuse.