High School Football Season Axed Following Vicious Locker Room Attack
A high school in Rhode Island has taken the drastic step of cancelling the remainder of its football season after a shocking incident where a student with severe impairments was allegedly whipped by players. The attack, which took place in the locker room at Rogers High School in the exclusive enclave of Newport, has led to assault charges for two 16-year-old players.
Newport Police have confirmed the ongoing investigation, though the names of the accused have not been released due to their status as juveniles. The reported assault occurred on a Thursday, with one suspect scheduled for arraignment the following Friday.
Disturbing Video Evidence Sparks Outrage
In a letter to families, Newport Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain stated the incident was captured on film. The viral video, which later appeared on an Instagram account run by Newport Buzz, provides a harrowing account of the events.
The footage shows a student seated by a locker being whipped with a belt or strap by a football player. In another segment, a different student is seen on his knees apologising before being struck across the face with what appears to be a rubber stretching band. Superintendent Jermain emphasised that the video 'shows other players not intervening, or bringing this matter to the attention of an adult.'
Jermain left no room for ambiguity, stating, 'This is a serious matter and there is no grey area when it comes to behaviour like this.' She confirmed that those involved will face disciplinary actions in line with district policies, adding, 'Our athletes need to understand as leaders... that this behaviour will never be tolerated.'
Community Response and Fallout
The Newport Police Department issued a strong statement, affirming that 'bullying will not be tolerated or condoned in our community' and promising a full investigation. In a show of support, an online GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist the alleged victim's family with legal expenses.
A post associated with the fundraiser revealed the personal impact, 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.'
The cancellation brings a premature end to a challenging season for the Rogers Vikings, who were coming off a 28-6 victory but held a overall record of just 2-8. According to MaxPreps.com, the team was ranked 34th in the nation's smallest state. This marks a sombre chapter for a football programme dating back to 1890, which has produced only one NFL player, former Chicago Bears lineman John Mellekas.
The school itself, which was established in 1873 and recently remodeled, has a small student body of approximately 650 pupils.
