Prosecutors Launch Probe Of Student Abuse Allegations In Holyoke School

Prosecutors are opening an investigation into the treatment of special needs students at a western Massachusetts school.

Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni said Monday his office and state police are conducting an inquiry into allegations of abuse at the Peck Full Service Community School in Holyoke, Mass.

The Disability Law Center released a report last week alleging disabled students were slapped, punched, shoved and restrained for long periods of time. The report said the treatment often left the children with bruises and scratches.

The Holyoke Teachers Association said in a statement the center is "not portraying an entirely accurate or fair picture," without elaborating.

The public school has since hired a new principal and tapped a private company to run its programs serving children with emotional and behavioral disabilities.