Derrick Lamont Clark, a 50-year-old Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor, is facing serious legal repercussions – following allegations of child abuse.
Clark has been formally charged with a felony for first-degree cruelty to children and a misdemeanor for battery.
The incident, as detailed in the arrest warrant, occurred between 1:10 and 1:30 p.m. on November 15th in Canton.
It is alleged that Clark struck an autistic child in the face with his hand at Cherokee Charter Academy.
In response to the incident, Cherokee Charter Academy has taken a firm stance.
A spokesperson for the academy emphasized their commitment to student safety and appropriate conduct:
The care and safety of Cherokee Charter Academy students is always our priority.
We have strict standards for appropriate behavior at school and at all after-school related activities.
If ever an individual violates those standards, we take all appropriate actions, and the individual is no longer welcome on our campus.
The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office apprehended Clark on November 27. He was subsequently released on the same day after posting a $7,500 bond, as confirmed by Capt. Jay Baker, a spokesperson for the CSO.
The Canton Warriors BJJ Academy, the facility where Clark is an instructor at, has not issued any statement regarding the incident.
McDojo News covered the news further:
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
đź’Ą What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
đź’ Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
