Police in the exclusive Rhode Island enclave of Newport have made two further arrests in a deeply disturbing bullying case that has shocked the local community. This brings the total number of youths charged to four.
New Arrests in Ongoing Investigation
Newport Police confirmed the latest arrests on Monday, charging a 17-year-old and a 14-year-old classmate with assaulting the same juvenile victim. This follows the earlier assault charges brought against two 16-year-old members of the Rogers High School football team. The investigations are stated to be ongoing.
The victim, who police describe as having 'severe impairments,' was reportedly subjected to a brutal attack last Thursday. The incident was captured on film, and the footage was later published on Instagram by Newport Buzz.
Disturbing Details of the Assault
The viral video shows a seated student being whipped with a strap or belt by a football player. In another portion of the footage, a student is seen on his knees apologising to his antagonist. The kneeling student says, 'I'm so sorry,' before being struck across the face with what appears to be a rubber stretching band.
In a letter to families, Newport Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain addressed the serious nature of the event. 'This is a serious matter and there is no grey area when it comes to behaviour like this,' Jermain stated. She also noted that the video 'shows other players not intervening, or bringing this matter to the attention of an adult.'
Community Response and Disciplinary Action
The school district has promised decisive action. 'Those involved will face appropriate disciplinary actions in accordance with our district policies,' Jermain continued. 'Our athletes need to understand as leaders, as athletes, and as representatives of our community, that this behaviour will never be tolerated at Newport Public Schools.'
An online GoFundMe drive was launched to assist with the alleged victim's legal bills. A post associated with the fundraiser revealed the victim's identity, stating, 'That was my little brother who is special needs in the video. We need a lawyer and etc so whatever you can donate please do. Thank you.'
The Newport Police Department issued a firm statement, emphasising that 'bullying will not be tolerated or condoned in our community' and vowing that such acts will be investigated to the fullest extent.
The incident occurred at Rogers High School, a newly remodeled institution established in 1873 with an enrolment of roughly 650 students. The school's football program, dating back to 1890, has produced only one NFL player, former Chicago Bears lineman John Mellekas. The team was coming off a 28-6 win, despite a 2-8 season record and a 34th-place ranking in the state.
