On Wednesday, November 5, 2025, Local 3 News reported that the hearing for Hamilton County teacher William Fryar, who is facing assault charges, took an unexpected turn when Judge Lila Statom recused herself from the case. Fryar, an instructor at Harrison Bay Future Ready Center, is accused of assaulting an 11th-grade student in an incident that allegedly occurred on August 20.
During the court appearance, Judge Statom cited a conflict of interest as the reason for her recusal. As a result, the case will be reassigned to another judge, with the next hearing scheduled for January 14. The nature of the conflict of interest was not disclosed during the proceedings.
The recusal introduces a delay in the legal process, which has already been a source of frustration for the student’s family. Craig Joel, the student’s father, expressed his disappointment with the postponement, emphasizing his desire to ensure his son’s safety and the safety of other students. He voiced concerns about Fryar’s initial return to the classroom in October, between his suspensions, despite the allegations.
The assault charges stem from an August 20 incident where Fryar allegedly shoved a student. Hamilton County Schools Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson confirmed via a letter dated October 2 that camera footage corroborated the physical contact, showing Fryar pushing the student during a fire drill. However, Dr. Robertson could not confirm claims that Fryar used an expletive during the incident.
Following an internal review, Dr. Robertson initially issued Fryar a one-day suspension, which had already been served, and offered back pay. However, Fryar was later suspended again after his arrest on October 23.
Local 3 News has reached out to Hamilton County Schools for clarification on Fryar’s employment status and the rationale behind allowing him to return to the classroom prior to his second suspension. While a spokesperson confirmed that Fryar’s status remains unchanged, no further details were provided.
Source: Local 3 News
