The Oswego County teacher accused of throwing a student over a desk testified in his own defense. The trial of Minetto Elementary school teacher Sean Fitzgerald continued Tuesday.
Fitzgerald says he didn't intend to throw the student. He says the child had been aggressive all morning, and he knew he needed help. Fitzgerald meant to put the child on a counter in the main office, intending to pick him back up after walking through a swinging door. But he says the boy fell off.
Other witnesses testified they heard Fitzgerald swearing at the boy. They also say the boy sometimes displayed violent behavior. The child's mother says he has been diagnosed with autism.
Nearly two dozen people were in the courtroom, many showing support for Fitzgerald.
"I feel he's an excellent teacher, excellent moral character, just a gentle man," said parent Samantha Hooper, "and everything I have learned from him in the past three years, my opinion hasn't changed."
Testimony will resume in the trial Wednesday afternoon.