PORTLAND, OR (KPTV) -
Portland police are investigating allegations of hazing involving Grant High School's boys basketball program.
The police bureau isn't releasing details because juveniles are involved, but officers say no arrests have been made.
The investigation began Tuesday, the same day police officers were made aware of the allegations.
In a letter to parents, Grant High School's principal Vivian Orlen said the school received a report about "an incident involving an assault among Grant JV basketball players" Thursday night.
"I think it was just a joke gone wrong," said senior Akiva Hillman, who's also a student athlete. "(Hazing) is not something that goes on at our school."
Police say there is no reason to believe children are at risk or that any school workers are the focus of the investigation.
Principal Orlen said she takes all reports of bullying, assault or intimidation seriously.
"All students have the right to be in a physically and emotionally safe environment. We will continue to work with authorities to fully investigate this incident," Orlen said in a news release.
Students who know one of the victims involved told Fox 12 they understand why the incident is being taken so seriously.
"It's actual physical violence," said student Iris Smith. "Emotional violence is harsh too, but when it gets physical, it's crossing the line."
Police have not released information on how, or whether the victims were injured.
"It's pretty serious because they could be affected for the rest of their life," said a fellow student, Claire Lupfer. "It's kinda hard to have that happen, especially with their own team."
A spokesman with the school district said the students involved in the
investigation have been suspended and removed from the basketball team.
Anyone with information about the allegations can email tips to CrimeTips@PortlandOregon.gov.
Below is the letter sent to Grant High School parents:
Grant Families,
Some of you may have heard about an incident involving members of the school's boy's basketball program. While we cannot share all information we have gathered so far, I'd like to share the following with our community:
* On Friday morning we have received a report about an incident involving an assault among Grant JV basketball players Thursday evening. Upon receiving the report Friday morning, the school immediately began an investigation. The students have been removed from the team and the investigation is on going.
* We also contacted Portland Police. An active police investigation is currently underway. Portland Police, PPS district staff and school administrators are working closely together on the current investigation. It is important that this investigation proceeds in a complete and thorough way.
* We take this incident very seriously. We want to make it clear we will not tolerate any form of assault, intimidation or bullying. We will investigate all reports fully and take appropriate actions to make sure every student feels safe at school.
* We want to encourage any student who has experienced bullying, intimidation or any level of harassment to talk to an administrator or the school resource officer. We also encourage parents or other family members to contact school administrators or police if they have information to share about this or any incident.
As more information becomes available and can be shared, I will share it.
Vivian
Copyright 2012 KTPV (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.
