The Atascadero Police Department has asked the Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office to consider filing a charge of misdemeanor battery against an Atascadero High School teacher and coach over an alleged assault of a student.

An attorney for the student, claims her client was acting up during a movie when the alleged altercation occurred. The student said Chris Ferree grabbed him by his sweater, forced him to the ground and thumped him on the chest, according to the student’s Merced attorney Shantelle Andrews.

On Thursday, Atascadero Unified School District Assistant Superintendent Curt Eichperger said in a statement that the school had “determined that significant elements of the allegations (against Ferree) are unfounded,” according to the Tribune.

Students and faculty at the school have rallied Ferree. Freshman Gwen Powers, a student in Ferree’s health class, said he is best teacher she has ever had.

“Coach Ferree cares about his students and teaches us about ethical behavior,” Powers said. “Many students in my class are saddened by the charges against Mr. Ferree.”

Following the allegations, the alleged victim received threats on social media. Because the student now fears for his safety, he did not attend school on Friday, according to Andrews. The district is conducting an investigation into the alleged threats.