Wisconsin Father Falsely Accuses Superintendent in Graduation Stage Altercation
Newly released police footage has exposed a white father's false claim that a Black superintendent touched him first, following a chaotic incident where he rushed a graduation stage to prevent the official from shaking his daughter's hand. The event, which occurred at Baraboo High School in Wisconsin on May 31, has led to criminal charges and raised concerns about racial undertones.
Stage Rush and False Allegations Captured on Video
Matthew Eddy forcefully barged onto the stage during Baraboo High School's graduation ceremony as his daughter was proceeding through the handshake line with school officials. Viral video from the event clearly shows Eddy grabbing Superintendent Rainey Briggs by the arm and dragging him away from his daughter, an act he later justified with untrue statements.
In police video obtained by local outlet WISN 12, Eddy told Officer Brandon Meyer minutes after the incident, "I didn't touch him until he touched me." This assertion is directly contradicted by graduation footage, which shows no such initial contact from Briggs. Eddy further explained his actions, stating, "I did not want him to be able to shake her f****** hand because he does not deserve it from her."
Police Report Indicates Pre-Planned Action
Officers documented in their report that they believed the push was "pre-planned" and noted Eddy expressed regret primarily due to the impact on his graduating daughter, rather than the act itself. When questioned, Eddy cited previous interactions with Briggs, including an instance where he claimed the superintendent "rolled his eyes" during a conversation about his daughter.
Eddy mentioned his daughter had faced potential expulsion meetings with school officials but provided no specific details. Police confirmed they were unaware of any allegations that Briggs had targeted Eddy's daughter prior to the incident.
Legal Consequences and Institutional Responses
Following the altercation, Matthew Eddy has been formally charged with disorderly conduct. Superintendent Rainey Briggs has taken protective measures by filing a restraining order against the father. The Baraboo School District issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to safety.
"We would like to emphasize that the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and community members is a top priority," said district spokesperson Hailey Wagner. The Baraboo School Board strongly condemned the behavior, stating, "No employee of the School District of Baraboo should fear for their physical safety when fulfilling their job duties... this type of behavior will not be tolerated."
Racial Concerns and Historical Context
While Eddy made no explicit reference to Briggs' race during the incident, community leaders have expressed concerns about racial implications. David Hart, president of Blacks for Political and Social Action of Dane County, told WMTV 5, "After Dr. Briggs was pushed out of the way and prevented from doing his job, it does not appear that anyone checked on Dr. Briggs' welfare... the treatment of Dr. Briggs looks all too familiar to us."
This incident recalls Baraboo High School's previous national attention in 2018, when a photograph surfaced showing current and former students performing Nazi salutes before a junior prom. The image, which included one boy forming an "OK" sign—a symbol adopted by far-right movements—was not school-sanctioned. The district ultimately declined disciplinary action, citing First Amendment protections.
The graduation stage rush has sparked broader discussions about safety, accountability, and potential racial dynamics within educational environments, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining respectful and secure school ceremonies.
