Elementary school principal placed on leave

West Winfield (WSYR-TV) -- A Herkimer County principal has been placed on leave after being arrested for using force on a child.

Fifty-seven-year-old James LaFountain, principal of Mount Markham Elementary School in West Winfield is accused of using excessive physical force in restraining a third grade student.

LaFountain has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child.

The Mount Markham District issued a statement to NewsChannel 9, saying that they take the situation very seriously and are cooperating with the State Education Department and the New York State Police as they continue to investigate.