Charges are being filed in connection with an assault that occurred Monday in a bathroom at Canton South High School, officials told Jordan Miller News. An official with the Stark County Sheriff’s Office said a 16-year-old boy has been charged with assault and theft in the incident. A second individual has been charged with assault. The video is being reviewed by the prosecutor and everything is under investigation as to whether additional charges will be filed for others that were present.
The incident, captured on video and widely circulated on social media, shows approximately a dozen students surrounding another student. The group can be heard accusing the victim of “snitching,” which the victim denies.
The situation escalates as the students forcibly remove the victim’s sweatshirt and shoes. One student attempts to take off the victim’s shirt but is stopped by another student who says, “Beat his ass before I do.” The video then shows one student slapping the victim before another steps forward and punches the victim multiple times in the face.
Canton Local Superintendent Brett Yeagley addressed the incident, stating that the district is taking swift action.
“We are aware of the disturbing incident that took place in the restroom at Canton South High School on November 25th, 2024, and has since been shared on social media,” Yeagley said. “Our administration started investigating immediately after being notified and is continuing to review all evidence from the incident. The district will be issuing school discipline consistent with our school board policies. Additionally, we are fully cooperating with an investigation with the Stark County Sheriff’s Office. We take this matter very seriously and are working to make sure everyone involved is held accountable.”
The Stark County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, though details about those involved or the specific charges have not been disclosed.
The district has emphasized its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for students and ensuring that appropriate actions are taken against those responsible.
