Florida Teacher Brutally Attacked by Student Awaits Attacker's Sentencing

Joan Naydich, who was severely beaten by her student Brendan Depa over a Nintendo Switch, calls for maximum punishment as sentencing approaches.

Joan Naydich, a Florida teacher, was brutally attacked by her student, Brendan Depa, in February 2023 after she confiscated his Nintendo Switch. The assault left her with five broken ribs, a concussion, and a shattered psyche.
Depa, a 17-year-old autistic student, was charged as an adult and faces up to 30 years in prison for the first-degree felony charge of aggravated battery. His sentencing hearing is slated for January 31, 2024.
Naydich, who is currently on leave and living off donations, has refused to help lighten Depa's sentence and wants him to face the maximum punishment.
Depa's family has argued that he should not be sent to prison due to his autism and has repeatedly asked for leniency in his sentencing.
Naydich has reported experiencing hearing loss, constant pain from her ribs, sight concerns, and cognitive problems since the attack.