Arrests Made in Rhode Island High School Assault Case
Authorities have arrested two high school football players in Rhode Island on charges related to the assault of a classmate with special needs, prompting the cancellation of the rest of the football season.
A 16-year-old from Rogers High School in Newport faces charges for attacking a peer on two occasions, following the emergence of video evidence showing him striking the victim in the boys’ locker room while others looked on. The incident came to the attention of police on Friday.
Another 16-year-old was arrested the following day for allegedly assaulting the same student, who is reported to have severe disabilities.
Newport Public Schools Superintendent, Colleen Burns Germain, conveyed the troubling details to the community, revealing that the assault occurred prior to a football game during what she described as “roughhousing.”
Footage of the incident indicates that none of the other players intervened, which raises serious concerns. “It seems to be a norm where roughhousing—even fistfights—occur before games. However, one player took things way too far, which is simply unacceptable,” she stated.
Furthermore, Germain expressed worry over the fact that the video showcased a lack of intervention from other players and a failure to alert adults about the issue.
As a result of discussions with team leadership and faculty, the decision was made to halt the football season immediately. Germain emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stressing that it is a clear violation of conduct standards. She assured that those involved will face appropriate disciplinary measures according to school policy.
“While there may have been a time when such rough play was overlooked, that’s certainly not acceptable anymore. Our athletes must recognize that such behavior simply cannot and will not be tolerated in Newport Public Schools,” she added.
The Newport Police Department mentioned it is unable to disclose the identities of the students or specific details about the arrests due to state law. They have confirmed that an investigation into the incident is ongoing.
