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A Rhode Island high school has canceled the remainder of its football season after a special needs student was allegedly whipped by players in the locker room.
Two 16-year-old players for Roger High School are now facing assault charges on a victim described by Newport Police as having 'severe impairments.'
Names of the accused of have not been publicized by police because they are juveniles. Police say the investigation remains ongoing.
The reported incident was said to be caught on film, according to a letter to families from Newport Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain. That viral video 'shows other players not intervening, or bringing this matter to the attention of an adult,' Jermain explained.
'This is a serious matter and there is no grey area when it comes to behavior like this,' Jermain continued. 'Those involved will face appropriate disciplinary actions in accordance with our district policies.
'Our athletes need to understand as leaders, as athletes, and as representatives of our community, that this behavior will never be tolerated at Newport Public Schools.'
An online GoFundMe drive was launched to help with the alleged victim’s legal bills
Disturbing video published on Instagram by Newport Buzz shows a seated student being whipped with a strap or belt by a football player. Another portion of the video shows someone on their knees apologizing to to his antagonist.
'I'm so sorry,' the kneeling student said before being whipped across the face with what appeared to be a rubber stretching band.
The attack is said to have taken place on Thursday in the exclusive Rhode Island enclave. One of the suspects was set to be arraigned Friday.
'The Newport Police Department emphasized that bullying will not be tolerated or condoned in our community,' Newport police said, adding: 'such acts will be investigated to the fullest extent.'
Rogers High School sits in the exclusive Rhode Island enclave of Newport
The newly remodeled school was established in 1873 and has an enrollment of only about 650
An online GoFundMe drive was launched to help with the alleged victim’s legal bills.
‘That was my little brother who is special needs in the video,’ read the post. ‘We need a lawyer and etc so whatever you can donate please do. Thank you.’
Rogers High School was coming off a 28-6 win over Providence's Juanita Sanchez Complex.
For the season, Rogers was just 2-8 and ranked 34th in the nation's smallest state, according to MaxPres.com.
The football program at the school dates back to 1890, although it has produced only one NFL player: Former Chicago Bears offensive and defensive lineman, John Mellekas.
