Corrections staffer arrested for child abuse

OCALA, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - The Marion County Sheriff's Office arrested a staff member of the Marion Juvenile Correctional Facility after an investigation revealed the employee used unnecessary force on a juvenile. Ronald Wallace Jr. , 30, of Ocala, faces a charge of aggravated child abuse.

On Monday, deputies responded to the facility, located at 10420 NW Gainesville Road, after a fight broke out among staff members and several juveniles.

One of the juveniles was allegedly placed in a choke-hold by staff member Ronald Wallace Jr. and became unconscious. The juvenile then fell to the ground, causing serious injury to his head.

Several juveniles and staff members were interviewed by the Sheriff's Office and the Department of Children and Families. Wallace's statement was inconsistent with other witness statements as well as the victims injuries. Wallace was subsequently arrested for aggravated child abuse.