Former North Bend teacher wanted on felony child abuse charge turns himself in

A former North Bend Elementary School teacher wanted on a felony child abuse charge turned himself into authorities Friday morning.

March 25, 2022Updated: March 25, 2022
News Channel NebraskaBy News Channel Nebraska

FREMONT, Neb. -- A former North Bend Elementary School teacher wanted on a felony child abuse charge turned himself into authorities Friday morning, the Dodge County Sheriff's Office said.

A warrant had been issued earlier this week for 50-year-old Craig Schmeckpeper. He is accused of putting his hands on an eight-year-old boy and then encouraging other students to punch or hit the student by telling them "free hits," according to court documents.

In addition to the school official who reported the Feb. 17 incident, Dodge County authorities stated that they received at three additional witness accounts corroborating the student's version of events.
 

A warrant for his arrest was signed on Tuesday. Schmeckpeper could face up to three years in prison if convicted.

Schmeckpeper ultimately resigned from his position rather than be fired, according to the a search warrant in the case.

 

Secretary Evnen sends Nebraska's voter information to the DOJ

Secretary Evnen sends Nebraska's voter information to the DOJ

Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers to seek another term

Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers to seek another term

Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh formally reprimanded over Capitol exhibit removal

Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh formally reprimanded over Capitol exhibit removal

Nebraska to hand over sensitive voter data to the Justice Department after court loss

Nebraska to hand over sensitive voter data to the Justice Department after court loss

Nearly $92 million in federal funding headed to Nebraska communities

Nearly $92 million in federal funding headed to Nebraska communities

Nebraska Rep. Don Bacon joins vote blocking House rule on tariffs

Nebraska Rep. Don Bacon joins vote blocking House rule on tariffs