Springfield, Illinois – A Grant Middle School security guard, who was arrested and charged with battery, has been placed on Investigative Leave by Springfield School District 186.

The incident occurred on February 26, 2024, at Grant Middle School, located at 1800 W. Monroe St. A Springfield Police Officer reports that Jesse L. Crawford, age 49, was breaking up a fight between two students when a female janitor objected to his actions.

The female janitor confronted Jesse, and he became aggravated and grabbed her by the throat, throwing her to the ground. According to police, the incident was captured on video. The janitor had no visible marks or injuries, but she requested an ambulance and was transported to a local hospital to be checked for non-life-threatening injuries.

Jesse was taken to the Sangamon County Jail and was charged by the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office with two counts of battery, a class A misdemeanor. He was granted pre-trial release and released from the Sangamon County Jail.

Springfield School District 186 provided the following statement: “At this time, District 186 is investigating an incident that occurred after school hours at Grant Middle School on February 26, 2024. After a preliminary investigation, a District staff member was immediately placed on investigative leave. We are unable to comment on this situation any further due to the matter involving personnel. We appreciate your understanding regarding the sensitivity of this issue and assure the community that appropriate steps are being taken. As always, the safety of our students and staff is our highest priority.”

Jesse is expected to return to court on April 24, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.