Corydon, IN – A 57-year-old science teacher at Corydon Central High School has been arrested after allegedly slapping a student who spilled water on his desk and telling another student she wished she could “shoot him in the head,” according to court documents. The teacher, identified as Cherie Hofmann, faces battery and intimidation charges in connection with the incident.
The Incident: Classroom Altercation Leads to Arrest
According to a probable cause affidavit obtained by The Madison Courier, the incident occurred on October 22, 2025, at Corydon Central High School, located roughly 125 miles south of Indianapolis.
The victim, a student, told a school resource officer that he accidentally spilled a small amount of water on a nearby desk while sitting in class. Hofmann, who was reportedly standing behind him, allegedly struck him on the right side of the head with an open hand and said,
“Don’t spill water on my tables.”
The student said the slap stung for a short while, though the pain subsided quickly. At least two other students corroborated his account, telling police they witnessed Hofmann slap the boy and admonish him for spilling water.
The school administration immediately placed Hofmann on administrative leave pending the outcome of the police investigation.
Investigation: Multiple Allegations of Threats
As investigators looked into the battery report, they discovered two additional allegations involving Hofmann making threatening comments toward students.
One female student told police that Hofmann had threatened to slap her during class. Another student alleged that Hofmann made a disturbing statement about wanting to shoot him in the head.
According to police reports, the third student confirmed that when he asked Hofmann a question, she looked directly at him and said,
“I wish I could shoot you in the head.”
The student told officers he believed Hofmann was having a bad day because of the remark. When he asked her to repeat what she said, Hofmann allegedly backtracked, claiming she had misspoken, and corrected herself by saying,
“I meant, I wish I could shoot myself in the head.”
Investigators documented that several students heard variations of this exchange, which contributed to the intimidation charges filed against her.
School District Response
The South Harrison Community School Corporation, which oversees Corydon Central High School, released a public statement confirming that Hofmann was placed on leave and that the district was cooperating fully with law enforcement.
“Once the investigation is complete, any necessary disciplinary measures and actions will be taken in accordance with the findings of the authorities,” the district said. “We understand this is a concerning situation and want to assure you that allegations of this nature are taken seriously.”
Officials declined to share further details, citing ongoing legal proceedings, but emphasized that student safety remains the top priority.
Teacher’s Defense and Police Interview
After being taken into custody, Hofmann waived her Miranda rights and spoke with investigators. She denied slapping the student, claiming she had only “gently patted” him on the head with her fingertips while warning him not to spill water.
Regarding the threats, Hofmann insisted she never said she wanted to shoot anyone. She told police that, as a licensed firearm instructor, she would never make such a statement.
“I might think it, but would never say it,” Hofmann reportedly told investigators.
Despite her denials, police determined that the witness accounts and corroborating statements supported the battery and intimidation charges.
Court Proceedings and Charges Filed
Cherie Hofmann has been charged with:
- One count of battery resulting in bodily injury
- Two counts of intimidation in retaliation for a lawful act
Court records show that Hofmann was released on her own recognizance after appearing before a judge. She has been ordered to have no contact with any of the victims and is scheduled for a pretrial conference on November 20, 2025.
If convicted, Hofmann could face up to one year in jail and fines under Indiana law for misdemeanor battery, along with additional penalties for intimidation.
Community Reactions
Parents and students in Harrison County have expressed shock and disappointment following the allegations. Some parents have called for stricter classroom conduct oversight, while others urged the district to ensure a fair investigation.
Local law enforcement and education officials have also reiterated that teachers are expected to uphold professional standards, especially in handling minor student behavior incidents.
Conclusion
As the case moves forward, Corydon Central High School remains under scrutiny for how it manages staff discipline and student safety. Hofmann’s next court appearance in November will determine whether the case proceeds to trial.
Meanwhile, the district continues to emphasize transparency and accountability as it works to rebuild trust with parents and students in the community.
What are your thoughts on this case and classroom safety? Share your opinions in the comments below.
