Trial date set for teacher charged with abusing toddler

A trial date has been set for a South Laurel Middle School teacher who is charged with abusing his 2-year-old son. The toddler was found with severe bruising on the hips, buttocks and lower back by day care personnel in August.

Social studies teacher Chandler Scott Cook, 27, and his wife, Jacklyn Amanda Cook, 26, were each charged with one count of fourth-degree assault.

Day care workers contacted social services after finding the bruises. In turn, social services reported the incident to the Kentucky State Police. The investigation, led by KSP Detectives Mark Allen and Mike Bowling, revealed the child had been struck multiple times.

On Wednesday, Bowling said a photograph taken of the child by social services has been sent for forensic testing to determine with what the child had been hit.

The child and his sibling have been taken from the Cooks’ home and remain in the care of family members.

Assistant Superintendent Greg Smith said Cook had initially been suspended with pay, as per school policy. He is now back teaching.

The Cooks have both pleaded not guilty.

Under Kentucky Law, fourth-degree assault is a misdemeanor charge carrying a potential sentence of up to one year in jail.

Chandler Scott Cook’s trial will be at 9:30 a.m. Jan. 27.

Staff writer Tara Kaprowy can be reached by e-mail at tkaprowy@sentinel-echo.com.