Former High School football players charged after sexually assaulting their teammates in a hazing

Police are investigating ten former Middletown high school football players are facing charges after a hazing investigation found several students were sexually assaulted at a practice.

Police reported two 17-year-olds, have been charged with multiple counts of criminal attempt to commit involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, indecent assault, unlawful restraint, simple assault, and hazing.

Police are reporting that three students were sexually assaulted for 20 minutes in a room with no adults around. Police learned three other students were assaulted over the last year including at least one at a residence.

According to ABC 27, Police also charged one student, 16, with unlawful restraint, simple assault and hazing. Three students (two ages 16 and one 17) were charged with unlawful restraint and hazing. Police also charged four students (two 16 and two 17) with violating the hazing statute.

The school released this statement:

Dear Parent/Guardian:

As the District Attorney announces the filing of formal charges against the students involved in the football hazing incident, the Middletown Area School District and School Board want to again express our disappointment and concern for the actions of these students. The District, from the start, has cooperated fully with law enforcement throughout their investigation and will continue to do so. As was previously announced at the School Board meeting on September 6th, the District has already contracted with outside experts who specialize in working with schools to address hazing and to help rebuild and foster positive, supportive sports programs, and learning environments for students. We are looking forward as we engage in the implementation of our districtwide plan that our administrative team and staff developed to address any concerns about culture. Ultimately, moving forward, we must work collaboratively as a community of parents, coaches, and educators to best serve and support our students. We are committed to doing our very best for the children of the Middletown Area School District.

Sincerely, DR. CHELTON HUNTER, SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

This is a pretty serious situation, no kid should have to go through this.