Town officials say a school resource officer followed policy when he handcuffed a 10-year-old boy and drove him home after a playground scuffle.
"The student was handcuffed because the officer felt the student's safety, as well as the safety of the other children, was at risk," according to a statement released by the town Tuesday.
The statement said officials would not release further information "out of respect for the family."
Avon Elementary School Principal Barbara Collins said school policy under such circumstances is to send a student home, but the officer handcuffed the boy on Feb. 17 without her knowledge.
"The officer acted independently of the schools," Eagle County School District Superintendent John Brendza said. "I don't condone it. He didn't communicate what he intended to do."
Collins said the resource officer is no longer at the school. The boy returned Monday.
Greg Webb said his son was traumatized by the experience, and he believes school officials haven't been straightforward about their involvement.
"I think the school is still confused about what happened," he said.