Aycock football players being investigated for alleged sexual assault

Wayne County Public Schools officials have launched a Title IX investigation into an alleged Charles B. Aycock High School football team hazing incident that several victims and witnesses say unfolded inside the team’s locker room — and allegedly resulted in sexual assault.

In high schools, Title IX requires districts and administrators to investigate and address complaints of sexual harassment, sexual assault, gender-based bullying, and unequal treatment.

The following statement was provided to New Old North by the district. It has not been edited:

“Wayne County Public Schools is aware of alleged misconduct involving members of the CBA High School football team. These allegations are being taken seriously and are subject to the Title IX grievance process, including a thorough investigation by the District’s Title IX team. Title IX prohibits students from being subject to disciplinary action, including potential removal from athletic teams, prior to the completion of the grievance process. However, WCPS has met with and implemented appropriate supportive measures for all students involved. WCPS is working to thoroughly, accurately, and swiftly follow the Title IX process and prioritizes student safety and security as its first goal. Given student privacy requirements and because the investigation is ongoing, we cannot provide specific details at this time and may be limited in our ability to respond to any inquiries.”

The “specific details” of the alleged incident are graphic and will not, until the investigation is complete, be published here.

But more about the investigation, WCPS’ requirements under Title IX, and the potential for criminal charges against the group of alleged perpetrators will appear in the Sept. 20 edition of our newspaper, Wayne Week.