INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — A woman was arrested and removed from Storm Grove Middle School after authorities say she disrupted student pick-up Friday afternoon by lying down in the parent pickup loop and blocking traffic.
Cristen Maddux, a public information officer for the School District, said the woman is a non-custodial parent and had earlier today tried to gain access to her child. Maddux explained that there is paperwork on file denying her that access and she was told to leave.
Cynthia Swann, 45, Rhode Island
The Sheriff’s Office arrested Cynthia Swann, 45, of Rhode Island, on misdemeanor charges that include trespass on school property, resisting arrest without violence, and disruption of school function. She is being held in the county jail in lieu of $1,500 bail.
Maddux said the woman returned during dismissal and again tried to get her child.
The Sheriff’s Office responded and found her lying on the road, blocking traffic. Students were relocated to another part of the school campus while authorities worked to detain her and ultimately arrested her and removed her from the campus.
Maddux stressed that – despite reports circulating among families – the woman did not hop a fence, nor did she have a weapon.
Photo provided by student on campus at time of incident.