Ohio High School Faces Federal Lawsuit Over Hazing and Assault Claims

A federal civil rights lawsuit has been filed against Ursuline High School in Youngstown, Ohio, following alarming allegations from a former football player. The lawsuit, lodged in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio on September 26, 2023, claims the student faced hazing and sexual assault during a football camp in June.

The complaint cites a series of disturbing incidents that occurred during a nine-day camp that traveled through multiple states, including Florida, Tennessee, and Alabama. It alleges that the plaintiff, described as a freshman, was subjected to a violent sexual assault on the first night of the trip. Another player reportedly filmed the incident and shared it on the team’s group Snapchat.

The allegations extend beyond the initial assault. The lawsuit details continued hazing and bullying throughout the camp, culminating in a second assault where the plaintiff was restrained and stripped by several teammates. This incident, too, was allegedly recorded and circulated among team members.

According to a press release from The Chandra Law Firm, which represents the plaintiff’s family, the school officials and coaches failed to act upon the complaints raised. The mother of the student reportedly informed an assistant coach about the assault on June 16, only to be met with indifference, as the coach allegedly dismissed the allegations as “just boys being boys.”

The complaint emphasizes that when the mother later met with school officials, they showed “no regret, remorse, or compassion.” Despite the serious nature of the claims, the school has been accused of not conducting a thorough investigation or taking appropriate disciplinary measures against the involved students and coaches.

A spokesperson for Ursuline High School confirmed that a police investigation into the allegations is ongoing and that the school has cooperated fully with law enforcement and the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown. The statement underscored the school’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its students, asserting that parents should feel confident in the environment provided for their children.

In light of the allegations, the football team’s game scheduled for Friday has been canceled. The school has also implemented increased supervision and mandatory training reviews to address the issues raised in the lawsuit.

The lawsuit alleges multiple violations, including claims of hazing, false imprisonment, stalking, and distribution of obscene materials. It also highlights potential Title IX violations, indicating a failure by the school to protect students from sexual harassment and violence.

Legal representatives for the plaintiff have expressed the need for accountability, stating, “No family should have to endure the trauma this family suffered at the hands of other students and then at the hands of school officials.” They are encouraging any individuals with pertinent information to come forward, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations.

As the situation develops, the focus remains on the ongoing investigation and the broader implications for student safety in school sports programs.