CASSELBERRY, Fla. -- The accusations in this case are disturbing. Autistic children forced to do their schoolwork in a bathroom, and even a blind child being punished by being put into a closet. These charges were so serious that the police have taken over the investigation.

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"These kids are so special to us," said one parent who wished to remain anonymous. "We worry day and night about everything they touch and who they come in contact with."

This parent wants to protect her child's identity, but she and other parents are outraged at what police suggest happened inside a classroom at South Seminole Middle School.

Teacher Kathy Garrett is suspended, after two teacher's aides say they witnessed her abuse several children.

"We have allegations that she struck the children in a potentially criminal fashion," said Lt. Dennis Stewart with the Casselberry Police.

The accusations include threats and intimidation, and included things like breaking children's fingers.

Investigators say students' autistic condition will make it very difficult to conduct interview with them, since they are often emotionally fragile. Even if some are able to speak, they often won't talk to strangers.

"Obviously, the children in some cases aren't able to tell you exactly what you need to know, in some cases they may not be able to say anything," said Lt. Stewart.

"Even if they're not scared, it's hard to get anything out of them, like, what they had for lunch. So, it will take time, but it can be done," said the anonymous parent.

One woman's child has a school workbook that gives hints to the chaos going on in the classroom. A recent letter home shows the child threatened to expose child abuse.

One child's mother believes police will find the truth. "I want my son to feel safe, school was supposed to be a safe place," added the concerned parent.

Casselberry police issued a statement, today, saying charges are still pending.

We did talk to Kathy Garrett, briefly on the phone today, but she said she wouldn't talk about the charges without her attorney's advice. She only said that the allegations are false.