By james art News 12 has learned three high school students have been arrested and charged in connection with the abuse of a classmate on their junior varsity football team. The remainder of James Madison High School’s season has been suspended.
Police in New York City say two 14-year-olds and a 13-year-old face charges of forcible touching and unlawful imprisonment after a report indicated students held and inappropriately touched a student last Wednesday a week.
The identity is being released because of the incident with minors, police said.
News 12 was told Saturday’s scheduled game has been canceled and the city’s Department of Education confirms the rest of the season has been suspended.
“Bullying and bullying, including teasing, have no place in our schools – period. After hearing reports of abuse, the school immediately responded. Parents were immediately notified, the school is providing support and the investigation is ongoing,” a DOE spokesperson said in a statement to News 12.
News 12 also called the head coach of the JV football team. He said he had no comment on the situation.
Students and parents reacting to news of the allegations Monday told News 12 they were shocked and upset by the incident.
“Bad things can happen anywhere – even at a great school like Madison, and I’m glad they took it so seriously and arrested the students responsible because it’s traumatic to have to go through something like this,” said parent Jessica Feldman.
The names of the victims and suspects have not been released, as all those involved are minors.