Youngstown, Ohio, September 6, 2025
News Summary
A former freshman football player and his family have filed a federal lawsuit against Ursuline High School in Youngstown, Ohio, alleging serious hazing and sexual assault incidents that occurred during a team trip. The lawsuit highlights a culture of silence among coaches, naming multiple defendants, including school officials. The allegations include child pornography, battery, and intimidation. In response, the school canceled an upcoming football game and initiated an internal investigation while cooperating with law enforcement. This troubling case has raised concerns within the community about the safety and well-being of students.
Youngstown, Ohio – A federal lawsuit has been filed against Ursuline High School by a former freshman football player and his family, alleging serious charges of hazing, sexual assault, and dissemination of child pornography. The case, which has drawn significant attention, was registered in the U.S. District Court for Northern Ohio.
The allegations stem from incidents that allegedly took place during a nine-day team trip in June 2023, which included visits to locations in Florida, Tennessee, and Alabama. According to reports, the player experienced initiation rituals that are claimed to be part of a longstanding hazing culture within the football team. Unsettling specifics reveal that during this trip, the player reported being attacked, stripped of clothing, and assaulted by several teammates. These assaults were reportedly filmed and circulated through the team’s exclusive Snapchat group.
Citing a culture of cover-ups, the lawsuit claims that coaches at Ursuline High School were aware of the hazing behavior but did not take action to intervene. The plaintiff’s attorney brought forward a strong statement asserting that the victim has suffered lasting trauma from the alleged sexual abuse and subsequent humiliation.
In light of the serious accusations, Ursuline High School made the decision to cancel its upcoming football game against Farrell, originally scheduled for September 5. The school administration emphasized the importance of student safety and well-being and confirmed their cooperation with ongoing investigations. Following the filing of the lawsuit, an internal investigation was initiated after a formal report was made by the family regarding the incidents.
Reportedly, some disciplinary measures have already been enacted against certain students involved in the incident. However, others chose to leave the football program voluntarily before any further disciplinary actions were enforced. Enhancing safety measures, the school has increased chaperone presence during team activities and introduced mandatory training reviews to educate students on safety protocols.
The lawsuit outlines not just the allegations against individual students, but also the responsibility of the Ursuline administration, which is accused of failing to protect students from foreseeable harm. Among the defendants listed in the complaint are the school principal, assistant principal, head football coach, two assistant coaches, the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, and 11 unnamed football players.
Accusations in the lawsuit range widely, identifying criminal hazing, sexual assault, aggravated assault, battery, kidnapping, false imprisonment, stalking, child pornography, and telecommunications harassment. The complaint indicates a lack of accountability among school officials, pointing to multiple previous incidents of hazing that were never properly addressed. A remarkable aspect of the allegations is that the victim’s sister reportedly faced intimidation from members of the football team, leading her to leave the school before her senior year commenced.
Additionally, the lawsuit draws attention to recordings made by the alleged perpetrators, with some students boasting about their actions and making plans for future attacks. The case highlights potential negligence in hiring practices and the supervision of coaching staff, positing a concerning history of misconduct.
In response to this escalating situation, the Youngstown Police Department has launched its investigation into the claims made in the lawsuit. Members of the Ursuline High School community have expressed alarm and concern regarding these serious allegations and their implications for the school’s football program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main allegations in the lawsuit filed against Ursuline High School?
The lawsuit alleges hazing, sexual assault, and the sharing of child pornography during a team trip, along with a culture of silence and intimidation by coaches and administration.
What actions have Ursuline High School taken in response to the allegations?
Ursuline High School has canceled a scheduled football game, started an investigation, and implemented increased oversight and mandatory training to ensure student safety.
Who are the defendants in the lawsuit?
Defendants include the school principal, assistant principal, head football coach, two assistant coaches, the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, and 11 unnamed football players.
Is the police involved in the investigation?
Yes, the Youngstown Police Department is actively conducting an investigation into the allegations presented in the lawsuit.
Key Features of the Lawsuit
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Allegations | Hazing, sexual assault, child pornography |
| Locations Involved | Florida, Tennessee, Alabama |
| Filed By | Former freshman football player and family |
| Legal Action | Federal lawsuit in U.S. District Court for Northern Ohio |
| School Response | Cancelled football game, cooperating with investigations |
| Involved Parties | Coaches, administration, Catholic Diocese of Youngstown |
| Police Involvement | Ongoing investigation by Youngstown Police Department |
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