S.C. HANAHAN.After multiple students came forward with alarming claims of alcohol consumption, assault, and exposure to explicit material, a Hanahan dance instructor is now facing significant criminal charges.
Routine Prompts Parental Concern
When parents at a nearby dancing school complained about a routine they thought was unsuitable for their kids early this year, the investigation got underway. Families reported feeling uneasy with the choreography, which was taught by 45-year-old Andrea Mizell, and raised concerns about her behavior outside of the classroom.
On March 12, Mizell reportedly fled the school after being invited to meet with worried parents, telling authorities that she had panicked because she felt threatened by the request.
Students Allege Alcohol, Explicit Images, and Touching
Students made the following claims as the investigation progressed:
-
Being served
margaritas
in Mizell s apartment while watching rehearsal footage -
Engaging in
vulgar discussions
about the instructor s personal sex life -
Viewing
explicit photos
shown to them during class time -
Mizell
touching students inappropriately
, including incidents involving their
private areas
-
Witnessing Mizell
changing clothes in front of them
, according to statements reported byWCNC Charlotte
Mizell Facing Multiple Charges
The following charges were brought against Mizell by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department:
-
Four counts of second-degree assault and battery
-
Four counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor
-
Three counts of disseminating harmful material to minors
According to authorities, the charges show that students under her supervision engaged in emotional and physical misconduct. The case has raised more general questions regarding adult supervision of juvenile performance-based and extracurricular programs.
Investigation Ongoing
Mizell has yet to enter a plea, and further court cases are still pending. Potential witnesses are still being questioned by law enforcement, and digital information gathered throughout the investigation is being examined.
FOX News Digital and other local media covering the story verified the first reporting.
Have you or a loved one been the victim of misbehavior in after-school programs or youth organizations? To help spread awareness and safeguard South Carolina children, send a confidential message to saludastandard-sentinel.com with your worries or advice.
