Pro Taekwondo Martial Arts School Owner Arrested for Abusing Kid with Escrima

Erik Jeremy Magbanua, 45, was arrested last week and charged with aggravated domestic battery.  

The victim told police Magbanua had been using an escrima to strike him as a punishment. 

Magbanua and his fiancée reportedly abused the victim ongoingly. The victim has scars across his body from their physical abuse. 

Gainesville Police Department (GPD) Officer George Connolly reported the victim had a bruise the size of a baseball bat. 

The victim only recently became a legal adult, prompting the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to conduct an investigation. 

The DCF asked Magbanua to explain how the victim was disciplined, and he couldn't find a direct answer. 

Shortly before Magbanua‘s arrest, Connolly asked him how he disciplines the victim, and Magbanua said he “would consult the matter with his attorney.” 

GnvInfo does not know the identity of Magbanua‘s fiancé.

GnvInfo emailed Connolly and GPD Public Information Officer Brandon Hatzel to ask why Magbanua hadn’t been charged with child abuse, if his fiance would be charged, and if Pro Taekwondo would be under investigation. They haven’t responded.

Magbanua has been released on a $50,000 bond and has been ordered to wear an ankle monitor.