Three former Atlanta Public Schools educators on Monday asked a judge to suppress statements they gave to GBI agents and special investigators who were looking into allegations of test cheating on standardized tests.
The criminal defendants — two former principals and a former assistant principal — contend their statements should not be used against them because they gave the statements under the threat of losing their jobs if they did not cooperate. They are among 34 charged in a sweeping racketeering indictment that accuses the former educators of conspiring to cheat on standardized tests.
Fulton County Superior Court Judge Jerry Baxter, who is presiding over the massive case, did not issue an immediate ruling. He has set a trial date for May. This week, Baxter began hearing motions by numerous defendants and his rulings are expected to shape what prosecutors can use as evidence at trial.
On Monday, Baxter heard motions filed by former Dobbs Elementary School principal Dana Evans, former Parks Middle School principal Christopher Waller and former Parks Middle School assistant principal Gregory Reid. All three took the witness stand and testified that, because of a series of memos from former APS Superintendent Beverly Hall, they feared they would be fired for insubordination if they did not cooperate with investigators.
About the Author
