When Homework Turns Ugly: A Tutor’s Rage Gone Too Far
In a shocking incident that has rattled Singapore’s small‑town families, a 57‑year‑old part‑time tutor, Teo Thian Hoe, lost his temper and physically assaulted an eight‑year‑old girl during two separate tutoring sessions. The case, which is still under judgment, highlights the dangers of allowing unvetted adults to interact with children on a daily basis.
How It All Began
Teo had been hired in January after a parent found his name on a tutoring website. He began coaching the young girl at her home, days that would later become infamous. The first incident took place on March 18, in the girl’s study room.
March 18 – The First Punch‑Down
- Teo was listening to a disappointing answer and “waved” his finger for a “rude attempt” of her answer.
- He flicked her left forearm three times (yes, again), then punched her left arm twice.
- The child cried in pain and shock; the video feed showed him grabbing her head, sliding it down—an odd form of “discipline.”
Aftermath
Later that day, the girl told her father that the tutor would “suddenly punch her whenever she failed.” He thought it was a joke, but soon after, he checked the CCTV footage and saw exactly what the son’s father feared: physical violence in the home.
March 22 – The Second Assault
Two days after the first attack, the tutor re‑entered the girl’s bedroom for a lesson. The scene turned even darker:
- He again flicked the left forearm, this time while yelling at her in a furious tone.
- He knocked her head four times, slapping her right hand and throwing a blow at her upper left arm twice.
- He clamped her neck, propelling her head downwards.
- The girl emerged with a blackened bruise on her left arm and tears.
Father’s Response
With the culprit’s violence on live video, the father confronted the tutor, demanding he leave the house before calling the police. The teacher reportedly “shook his head in pity” and didn’t resist.
Accused’s Plea and Awaited Sentence
Teo, who isn’t represented by a lawyer, pleaded guilty to one assault charge on Monday, Oct 17. A second charge—identical to the first—will be considered during sentencing. He admitted to stopping teaching every time he was commanded by a parent, and stated that the case “has troubled me a lot.”
Legal Insight
Under Singapore law, an offender who assaults a victim under 14 can be jailed up to six years and fined up to $10,000. The Deputy Public Prosecutor urged a “short jail term,” citing the girl’s vulnerability and the tutor’s physical stature.
What’s Next?
Teo’s sentencing is scheduled for November 2. In the meantime, the case serves as an eerie reminder that sometimes, tutoring isn’t the safe sanctuary parents expect.
Sports fans and journalists alike will be watching as the verdict comes down, hoping the punishment fits the crime and the community learns to protect its youngest.