Mom of teen who beat teacher’s aide ‘devastated’ by sentence

( NewsNation ) — Leanne Depa, Brendan Depa’s mother, is “devastated” over her son’s five-year prison sentence for attacking a teacher’s aide.

Leanne Depa says she has written letters from a hospital and group home that are “willing to accept him,” as an alternative to serving time prison time.

“I really don’t think he understands what he’s facing,” Leanne Depa said exclusively on NewsNation’s “ Banfield .”

Brendan Depa , an 18-year-old who suffers from autism, ADHD and mood disorder, was captured on surveillance video in February of 2023 beating teacher’s aide Joan Naydich, leaving her with five broken ribs, a severe concussion and hearing loss.

Gene Lopes, Brendan Depa’s tutor, told “Banfield” that Depa is “very sorry” and has learned a lot since the attack.

“We have spoken often about it,” Lopes said. “Brendan has learned a lot through our time. Initially, he did blame Joan. He was angry … Over time, he has come to realize, this was something he did wrong.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.