SAN DIEGO (KGTV) – Officials at Mira Mesa High School met with parents Thursday night in light of a reported hazing incident involving football players that has sparked a police investigation.
10News was not allowed inside the meeting on campus, but several concerned parents who were in attendance later said the issue was being blown out of proportion by the media.
Some parents said they were not told much about what happened since the investigation is ongoing.
However, one father, whose son is not on the football team, said he felt reassured after hearing what officials had to say.
“I feel confident in them taking care of the kids and what they do with this investigation,” the father told 10News.
RELATED: Mira Mesa High School investigating reported hazing
In a statement released Wednesday night, Mira Mesa High Principal Jeff Sabins said the alleged hazing happened among members of the junior varsity football team.
10News spoke with students heading to school on Thursday, including one football player who claims to have been in the locker room when the incident took place.
The student said, though he didn’t see the reported hazing, he heard laughter. "We all took it as a joke," the student said. "But I don’t know who brought the idea to do it to the freshman."
"It’s like some weird stuff that they do. Normal boy stuff, he added. "It’s a little bit embarrassing, but nothing sexual.”
The San Diego Police Department was notified about the incident early Wednesday morning. Shortly after, the department's sex crimes unit was assigned to investigate.
Authorities say they conducted interviews and have identified those involved but aren't releasing any names.
Parents who attended the meeting told 10News the probe would likely continue for a few more days before any new information is released.
After the news broke, the school sent 10News a statement. Read Sabins’ full statement to 10News below:
“The Mira Mesa High School administration learned of alleged hazing occurring among some members of the Junior Varsity football team. In response, the school: launched an investigation into the allegations, which continues; canceled a JV football practice and game scheduled for Thursday; and notified the entire school community of the reports of alleged hazing. I have directed football staff to increase off-field supervision of football team members. Tomorrow night, I will meet with football families to review our commitment to keep students safe on and off the field.”
