MPS paraprofessional facing child abuse charge appears in court

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A paraprofessional for Milwaukee Public Schools accused of hurting a student appeared in court Friday, Sept. 25.

The criminal complaint says the incident happened at Trowbridge Elementary on Sept. 15. The student allegedly used inappropriate language with his teacher. That's when they say Margaret Galligan-Nordquist approached the child, took him by the arm, and when he tried to get away, allegedly held him by the neck.

In court Friday, records show Galligan pleaded not guilty and was bound over for trial.

We spoke with the mother of the child and asked what her reaction was to the marks on her son's body.

"I was in disbelief," she said. "I was shocked. I stood there quiet for a moment. I was getting hot sweats. I told the principal I don't feel good, like I'm going to get an anxiety attack or panic attack."

Galligan is scheduled to be back in court Oct. 13.

If found guilty, Galligan could face up to six years in prison.