Las Vegas, Nevada — A fifth-grade teacher in Las Vegas has been arrested after multiple students accused him of engaging in inappropriate and alarming behavior inside the classroom, including a so-called “knife-tag” game and other actions that made them feel unsafe.
Kha Nam Nguyen, 51, a teacher at Wing and Lilly Fong Elementary School, was taken into custody and is now facing one count of child abuse or neglect and five counts of contact with a minor, according to school district police.
“Students reported feeling uncomfortable and scared due to the teacher’s behavior in class.”
Allegations include ‘knife-tag’ game in dark classroom
According to an arrest report, one of the most serious allegations involves a game referred to as “knife-tag.”
Students told investigators that Nguyen allegedly:
- Turned off classroom lights
- Walked around holding a knife
- Engaged with students in a game-like scenario
Police later reported finding a large serrated bread knife inside a classroom cabinet, which is believed to be linked to the allegation.
“The alleged ‘knife-tag’ activity is central to the child abuse charge,” investigators noted.
Students describe additional concerning behavior
Beyond the knife-related allegation, students reported several other behaviors that raised concerns.
One activity, described as the “teddy bear game,” allegedly involved Nguyen hugging a student—often a girl—while pretending to be upset and expecting the child to comfort him.
Students also claimed:
- They were made to feel “weird in a bad way”
- The teacher made inappropriate comments, including calling girls “gold diggers”
- He referred to students as “special ed” when they answered incorrectly
- He allegedly “shipped” students as couples
“Multiple students said the behavior crossed boundaries and made them feel uncomfortable.”
Reports of aggressive conduct in classroom
Investigators also noted claims that Nguyen displayed aggressive behavior, including:
- Using harsh language
- Flipping desks during class
These reports contributed to the broader concerns about classroom safety and conduct.
Teacher allegedly admitted some actions
During questioning, Nguyen reportedly admitted to engaging in some of the behaviors, stating that he was trying to entertain students and build rapport.
However, he denied certain allegations, including calling students “special ed.”
“He told investigators he now understands why some of his actions may be seen as inappropriate.”
Previous complaints had been reported
School officials told police that there had been prior complaints about Nguyen’s conduct.
These included:
- Reports of unprofessional comments toward students
- Complaints from staff regarding unwanted advances and behavior
Despite these earlier concerns, the recent student reports led to formal charges.
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Teacher released on bail, barred from school
Nguyen was released after posting $15,000 bail and is currently under electronic monitoring. He has also been prohibited from returning to the school as the case proceeds.
“The investigation is ongoing as authorities review multiple allegations from students.”
The case has raised serious concerns about student safety and oversight within the school system.
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