Students Allegedly Suffer Second-Degree Burns After Being Made to Crawl on Hot Track as Punishment
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In a disturbing incident, two freshman members of an Indianapolis high school majorette team reportedly sustained second-degree burns and blisters during a practice session. The students’ parents have come forward, alleging that their daughters were forced to do bear crawls on scorching asphalt as a form of punishment.
Travis Peagler, the father of one of the injured students, Trinity, 14, from Warren Central High School, expressed shock and distress at the ordeal his daughter went through on September 18. He shared with media outlets The Indianapolis Star, NBC affiliate WTHR, ABC affiliate WRTV, and Fox affiliate WXIN that his daughter was left with burnt and blistered hands after the incident.
According to Travis, his daughter informed him that she was directed to perform bear crawls as a consequence of her grades. The temperature on the day in question was nearly 90 degrees, leading to concerns about the safety of such physical punishment on a hot track.
The situation became even more alarming when it was revealed that Travis and Stacey Peagler’s daughter had to be taken to the hospital for treatment. As per reports from WTHR and WXIN, her recovery period is estimated to be approximately six months due to the severity of her injuries.
Describing the incident as nothing short of child abuse, Travis highlighted the gravity of the situation, emphasising that these are young girls who should not be subjected to such extreme and potentially dangerous disciplinary measures.
Another parent, Ronnisha Banks, shared a similar account involving her daughter, a member of the same majorette team, who allegedly experienced the same treatment. Banks provided photographs showing the extent of her daughter’s injuries, illustrating the distressing consequences of the punishment.
Following these distressing revelations, an investigation into the matter was initiated by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department. The school district, Warren Township Schools, has also responded, acknowledging the incident and affirming their commitment to prioritising the safety and well-being of their students.
The district’s statement expressed deep concern for the well-being of the student-athletes affected and pledged to provide support to the students and their families throughout the recovery process. Additionally, they assured that steps will be taken to learn from this incident to prevent such occurrences in the future.
In light of the seriousness of the allegations, efforts have been made to involve the relevant authorities, with Banks reaching out to the Indiana Department of Child Services. However, due to legal constraints, the department refrained from commenting on ongoing cases, underscoring the delicate nature of the situation.
As the investigation continues and the community grapples with the aftermath of this distressing incident, the focus remains on ensuring that justice is served, and measures are put in place to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. Such incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the safety and well-being of students in all educational environments.