Woman accused of threatening violence at school
GREENDALE (WITI) -- A 28-year-old Milwaukee woman is charged with disorderly conduct after allegedly threatening violence at an elementary school in Greendale.
The criminal complaint against Maria Reyes indicates on Thursday, March 7th, a teacher's aide at Canterbury Elementary School was attempting to leave the parking lot about ten minutes before the last bell of the day. She was unable to back out because Reyes' car was parking her in.
Maria Reyes
The complaint indicates the aide "beeped her horn" but Reyes did not move. The aide then went up to the driver's side window of Reyes' car, and asked her to pull forward so she could leave. The complaint says Reyes used an expletive and told the aide to "get back into her car."
When the aide showed her school identification and indicated she just wanted to leave work, the complaint says Reyes told her that "she was going to get her (expletive) gun" and use it against the aide.
When interviewed by police officers, Reyes said the aide was pounding on her window and told the aide not to do it again or "she would take out her gun and use it in self-defense."
Officials with the Greendale School District say they take the security of the school and staff very seriously -- and take steps to guarantee that safety.
Linda Lee's child went to Canterbury Elementary School. She is now heading an anti-bullying and anti-violence group in the village.
"I think it's disappointing to see that any parent would engage in that kind of behavior," said Lee. "I think it sends a bad message to our children and especially when we are out there as a non-profit organization, all the schools are trying to emphasize eliminating the bully problem in our school system."
Those now organizing an anti-bullying event with the group Greendale Against Bullies, say it's disturbing to have an adult create a disturbance at an elementary school.
"It's very frustrating as a parent. I'm glad this organization is being formed because we're a resource out here," said Vicki Haumschild.
Police say Reyes admitted to having a gun at home -- a Smith and Wesson. Police took the gun for safe keeping and she is not allowed on school grounds until further notice.
Reyes posted $150 bail. If convicted on the misdemeanor disorderly conduct charge, she faces up to 90 days in prison and $1,000 in fines.
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