Jeffersonville, Indiana, December 3, 2025
A teacher at Jeffersonville High School has resigned following a viral video showing him placing a student in a headlock during a restroom altercation. The incident, which took place after the teacher confronted the student for allegedly violating school policies related to drug use, has sparked investigations by local authorities. The Greater Clark County Schools district has expressed its concern for the safety and well-being of its students and staff, while the student’s family is exploring legal options. The investigation remains ongoing.
Jeffersonville, Indiana
Jeffersonville High School Teacher Resigns Amid Student Headlock Incident
Jeffersonville High School teacher Casey Ritter resigned after a video surfaced showing him placing a student in a headlock during a confrontation in a school restroom. The incident occurred on November 24, 2025, and has prompted investigations by the Greater Clark County Schools (GCCS) district and local authorities.
Incident Details
On November 24, 2025, around noon, Ritter, assigned to monitor hallways and restrooms to prevent unsafe behavior, entered a boys’ restroom at Jeffersonville High School. He observed a group of students inside, which violated school policy. Upon entering, Ritter detected a strong odor of marijuana emanating from a closed stall and saw a student inside. When Ritter instructed the student to exit, the student refused and slammed the stall door on Ritter’s hand, causing injuries that required medical attention. The student remained combative and refused to leave the restroom despite multiple directives. In response, Ritter attempted to restrain and escort the student from the area, using additional force only as the student continued to resist. The incident was captured on video and subsequently circulated online.
Teacher’s Defense
Ritter’s attorney stated that Ritter was fulfilling his duties assigned by the district to ensure student safety and prevent illegal activities, such as drug use, within the school premises. The attorney emphasized that Ritter’s actions were reasonable efforts to carry out his responsibilities, and the student’s refusal to follow instructions necessitated the use of force.
District’s Response
The Greater Clark County Schools district expressed concern over the incident, stating that the safety and well-being of students, staff, and the school community remain their highest priority. The district has been communicating with school security as part of the ongoing investigation.
Legal Proceedings
The student’s family has hired an attorney and is exploring legal options. The Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case to determine if any charges are appropriate. The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be provided as they become available.
Background Context
Ritter was hired under an emergency teaching permit in September 2025, which is issued when districts cannot find a fully licensed educator. Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree and show they are actively working toward full licensure. Ritter’s permit to teach visual arts was set to expire in the summer of 2026.
Related Incidents
This incident follows a similar case in Oklahoma City, where a teacher was placed on administrative leave after a video surfaced showing him allegedly placing a student in a chokehold. The family of the student involved demanded action, and the district initiated an investigation into the matter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened during the incident at Jeffersonville High School?
On November 24, 2025, teacher Casey Ritter entered a boys’ restroom at Jeffersonville High School and confronted a student who was allegedly vaping and emitting a strong odor of marijuana. The student refused to comply with Ritter’s instructions, leading to a physical altercation where Ritter placed the student in a headlock. The incident was captured on video and circulated online.
What is the Greater Clark County Schools district’s response to the incident?
The Greater Clark County Schools district expressed concern over the incident, stating that the safety and well-being of students, staff, and the school community remain their highest priority. The district has been communicating with school security as part of the ongoing investigation.
What is the status of the investigation into the incident?
The Clark County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case to determine if any charges are appropriate. The student’s family has hired an attorney and is exploring legal options. The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be provided as they become available.
What is known about teacher Casey Ritter’s employment status?
Ritter was hired under an emergency teaching permit in September 2025, which is issued when districts cannot find a fully licensed educator. Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree and show they are actively working toward full licensure. Ritter’s permit to teach visual arts was set to expire in the summer of 2026.
Are there any similar incidents elsewhere?
Yes, a similar incident occurred in Oklahoma City, where a teacher was placed on administrative leave after a video surfaced showing him allegedly placing a student in a chokehold. The family of the student involved demanded action, and the district initiated an investigation into the matter.
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | November 24, 2025 |
| Teacher Involved | Casey Ritter |
| School District | Greater Clark County Schools |
| Nature of Incident | Physical altercation leading to resignation |
| Current Investigation Status | Ongoing, involving local authorities |
| Legal Action | Student’s family exploring legal options |
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