Crime & Safety

West Potomac Baseball Players Charged In Hazing Incident

Two West Potomac baseball players have been charged for hazing a student in 2016.

Fairfax County Police have charged two West Potomac baseball players for a hazing incident two years ago in the boys' locker room. The two 17-year-old teens, whose names are being withheld, each face a misdemeanor hazing charge.

Investigations began after a staff member reported the hazing incident in March. After interviews with students and school staff, investigations determined the two students hazed another student in the locker room before a game in 2016. Police charged the teens after consulting with the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County.

"We encourage everyone to report incidents of hazing to a parent, school staff member, coach or a police officer so they can be looked into," said Fairfax County Police in a statement. "We work closely with the Fairfax County Public Schools system to ensure that students feel safe during the school day and while participating in extracurricular activities."

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SEE ALSO: West Potomac Coach Resigns Amid Hazing Investigation

FCPS had announced in March it was investigating the allegations against players. The school district has revealed little about the specific allegations, but Principal Tangy Millard's email to families said the incident involved "harassment and other inappropriate behavior" on school property, The Washington Post reported in March.

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The district's own investigation resulted in three players being disciplined and removed from the team, FOX5DC reported.

The charges come after head coach Jim Sullivan resigned on an unrelated matter in April. A letter from the principal to families said the resignation "stems from a difference of opinion related to the future direction of the baseball program."

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