Teacher cuts off kid's tongue

2007-02-27 13:54

Milan - An Italian teacher has been suspended by her school in Milan after cutting off the tongue of a lively seven-year-old child with a pair of scissors, daily Corriere della Sera reported on Tuesday.

The boy has since had his tongue stitched back but is afraid to go back to school. His parents say he suffers nightmares and runs away whenever he sees a knife. They are now suing the school for damages.

The incident took place a week ago but was only reported on Tuesday.

According to Corriere, the 22-year-old substitute teacher threatened the child twice with a pair of scissors before actually chopping it off.

"Pull out your tongue. I'll cut it, and you'll no longer talk," she was quoted as telling the child.

The teacher, who has only been identified by her initials RS, has since apologised, claiming it was an accident.

The school's principal, Anna Maria Dominici, has suspended the teacher and ordered an investigation, saying her conduct could in no way be excused.

Sapa-dpa

- SAPA