An Akron Public Schools student is “believed to be the victim of sexual assault,” according to a statement Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic made Thursday afternoon.
City officials have refused to identify the school involved.
However, several sources familiar with the investigation say the case involves three Firestone High School students, either freshmen or sophomores. The incident took place off campus, and two boys are accused of sexually assaulting a girl.
The boys are expected to be suspended from classes pending the outcome of the investigation.
The sources asked not to be identified because they are not authorized to discuss the case.
City officials released only a vague news release Thursday afternoon and declined to provide more information in subsequent requests.
“There is no reason for us to believe any teachers or faculty are involved. Schools are safe. Police and APS are working together to find out exactly what happened,” Stephanie York, a city spokeswoman, said in an email.
Authorities at Akron Children’s Hospital notified the mayor and Superintendant David James on Thursday of “incidents involving the juvenile victim.”
“We are taking these allegations seriously and want to protect the victim. We will do everything we can to find out what happened and take appropriate action after a thorough and complete investigation,” Plusquellic said.
The mayor’s office declined to offer any more details.
Akron police and school personnel are investigating the matter, collecting statements and possible video, the mayor said.
“We still have very few confirmed facts, but I want to assure everyone that our staff is working — right now — with Akron police to get to the bottom of this. If the allegations are true, my heart goes out to the victim and the victim’s family. This is truly reprehensible behavior,” James said.
Mark Williamson, APS spokesman, said the district is working with police to obtain all information related to the allegations. He also declined to release any additional details.
“As of today there is a concern on our part based upon what the police have brought to our attention,” Williamson said, adding that he is respecting the police investigation. “We are working with them to find the truth.”
