In the Interest of G. J.

Eldridge, Judge.

G. J. was accused by a Department of Juvenile Justice petition of the offense of simple battery “in that on or about December 13, 2000, . . . the youth did intentionally make contact of an insulting and provoking nature to wit hit in the back with a fist, with the person of Barbara Kicklighter.” See OCGA § 16-5-23 (a). Kicklighter was a teacher at Reidsville Middle School where G. J. attended. After a bench trial, G. J. was adjudicated delinquent for such offense. He appeals contending that the state failed to prove intent and, thus, the evidence was insufficient to support…