Aila Boyd
aboyd@mainstreetnewspapers.com
Multiple individuals have been charged following an altercation during a Jan. 22 basketball game at Craig County High School, according to school and law enforcement officials.
Craig County Public Schools Superintendent Jason A. Wheeler said in a Feb. 6 letter to families that several people have been charged in connection with the incident, which occurred during a game against Narrows High School.
School officials said the matter remains under investigation by law enforcement, and no additional details are being released to protect the privacy of those involved.
According to Craig County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to a reported fight at Craig County High School, 25239 Craigs Creek Road in New Castle, at 8:13 p.m. on Jan. 22. Deputies were dispatched at 8:17 p.m. and arrived at 8:18 p.m.
Sheriff Lloyd T.N. Craddock said the investigation resulted in criminal charges against three individuals. No additional information is being released because the case is pending in court. Roger Shepard and Rodney Dalton have been charged in connection with the incident, according to Craig County Commonwealth’s Attorney Matthew Dunne.
Since the incident, Craig County Public Schools officials said they have worked with law enforcement to review procedures and identify ways to prevent similar situations in the future.
School officials said maintaining a safe and respectful environment for student-athletes, families and spectators remains a top priority. The division is reviewing game-day supervision practices and reinforcing expectations for sportsmanship and spectator conduct at athletic events.
Wheeler encouraged community members to support students and promote positive behavior at school events.