Robert Anthony Simmons

A Syracuse man, residing near a school playground, went to the school to complain about the noise and pushed several children standing in front of the school when he left.

Robert A. Simmons, 56, 407 W. Boston Street, Syracuse, has been arrested three counts of battery to a person less than 14 years of age, all level 6 felonies and disorderly conduct, a class B misdemeanor. He is being held on $5,000 surety bond.

Charges were filed Thursday, May 21, in Kosciusko County Superior Court 1.

Court documents state police were called to Syracuse Elementary regarding a disorderly male. Pat Eldridge, school secretary, stated Simmons had entered the school, irate about the noise coming from the playground. Police state Simmons began yelling and calling the students various names including racial slurs and claiming the students were “demon possessed.” He left the building after being advised police were being notified.

Police also spoke with a fourth-grade teacher who stated she witnessed Simmons leaving the school cussing and appearing extremely angry. She also saw him physically push several children out of his way as he left. At least three juvenile females reported they were part of a group standing in front of the school when Simmons walked through and pushed them.