JAMESTOWN, N.Y. (WKBW) — Jamestown Public Schools are now investigating disturbing video posted online showing a young man being bullied.
The video was sent to 7 Eyewitness News and it shows the bully trying to forcibly remove the victim's shirt, making the victim get on the ground while the bully steps on his back, and taunting the young man while he cries.
Comments posted on Facebook said the bully in the video is a member of the Jamestown High School football team but 7 Eyewitness News was not able to confirm that through the school district.
The Jamestown Police Department is aware of the videos and said it is assisting the school district with the investigation.
Jamestown Public Schools' Superintendent Dr. Bret Apthorpe issued the following statement:
"Last night I was made aware of videos circulating on social media regarding students allegedly enrolled in our district. Jamestown Public Schools has a zero tolerance policy regarding the behavior displayed in the videos, whether it happens during the school day or after school hours.
My job as superintendent is to investigate any incidents in our district and take swift and appropriate disciplinary action. As a district, we are not legally allowed to share details about individual student disciplinary actions. However, I can assure the community that any situation that includes bullying and harassment will result in suspensions and/or restorative practices such as counseling, bullying prevention classes and community service.
I want to reassure the community that Jamestown Public Schools will never tolerate actions such as those seen in these videos, or any actions that violate our District Code of Conduct. We will always take immediate and stringent action when it comes to the safety of all students."
