News Summary
A former freshman football player from Ursuline High School has filed a federal lawsuit alleging hazing, sexual assault, and child pornography. The lawsuit claims misconduct during a nine-day team trip, asserting that coaches were aware of the incidents but failed to act. The case has prompted school authorities to cancel a football game and implement new safety measures while investigations are ongoing.
Youngstown, Ohio — Former Ursuline High School Football Player Files Federal Lawsuit Alleging Hazing, Sexual Assault, and Child Pornography
A former freshman football player at Ursuline High School in Youngstown has filed a federal lawsuit against the school and several associated individuals and entities, claiming that he was subjected to hazing, sexual assault, and the distribution of child pornography during his time on the team. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for Northern Ohio, alleges widespread misconduct involving multiple team members and staff, and accuses the school’s administration of neglecting its duty to protect its students.
Details of the Alleged Incident
The events prompting the lawsuit reportedly occurred during a nine-day team trip in June, which included visits to Florida, Tennessee, and Alabama. During this trip, the plaintiff alleges that he was subjected to initiation rituals linked to the school’s hazing culture. According to the lawsuit, he was physically attacked, assaulted, and undressed by several teammates. These incidents were allegedly recorded and shared via a group Snapchat account, further disseminating the misconduct.
Allegations Against School Staff and Administration
The lawsuit claims that coaches and school officials were aware of the hazing and assault incidents but failed to intervene or take disciplinary action. It accuses the school of fostering an environment where hazing was tolerated or ignored, contributing to a culture of cover-ups and intimidation. The complaint specifically alleges negligence in supervising staff and hiring practices, suggesting a history of misconduct that was not sufficiently addressed by the administration.
Legal Claims and Parties Involved
The lawsuit names various defendants, including the school’s principal, assistant principal, head football coach, two assistant coaches, the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, and eleven unnamed football players. The plaintiff’s legal team has outlined multiple criminal and civil accusations, including criminal hazing, sexual assault, aggravated assault, battery, kidnapping, false imprisonment, stalking, child pornography, and telecommunications harassment.
Impact on Family and School Response
The complaint also reports that the victim’s sister faced intimidation from some football players and was compelled to leave Ursuline High School before her senior year. The incident prompted immediate actions by the school, which canceled its scheduled football game against Farrell on September 5. The school expressed a commitment to student safety, stating that it is cooperating fully with ongoing investigations.
In addition to canceling a game, Ursuline High School has implemented measures such as increased chaperone oversight, mandatory safety training reviews, and disciplinary actions against some students. Several others left the football program voluntarily before further discipline could be administered. The school emphasized its focus on providing a secure environment for students but recognized the seriousness of the allegations.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Response
The Youngstown Police Department has launched an investigation into the allegations, and authorities are reviewing evidence related to the lawsuit. The school’s community has expressed concern and sensitivity regarding the accusations, which have shaken confidence in the school’s handling of student safety and misconduct issues. The lawsuit underscores allegations that the school failed to prevent foreseeable harm and did not adequately supervise staff and students.
Background and Context
Ursuline High School, a Catholic institution in Youngstown, has had a longstanding reputation in the local community. However, the recent lawsuit shines a spotlight on alleged misconduct within its football program and raises questions about oversight and school culture. The case is expected to continue unfolding as authorities examine the allegations, the school reviews its policies, and the legal process proceeds.
As this situation develops, authorities, families, and community members remain engaged in seeking clarity and accountability regarding the allegations of abuse and negligence involving the school’s football team and administration.
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RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
