WINTHROP, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) – All varsity football activities at Winthrop High School have been suspended after video of a student changing in the locker room was circulated among students.
According to police, the video was shared with members of the team and the high school. Town officials said they believe the video was taken Monday night, but they wouldn't say how the video was shared.
The suspension of football activities includes forfeiting any games that are missed, beginning with this Friday’s game against Gloucester.
“I think it’s important that we work toward team goals and we felt that it is important that we will not tolerate or condone this type of behavior. Therefore we feel that at this time it is best for us to suspend this activity going forward,” Winthrop Superintendent John Macero said.
Macero said the school became aware of the video from a tip submitted anonymously Tuesday afternoon, and they immediately suspended activities to begin the investigation.
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“It’s an ongoing educational process for our students and our community. The school department and the police department work diligently to make sure that people take responsibility for their actions and know there is a price to pay for their actions,” Police Chief Terence Delehanty.
Winthrop Police won't call this a case of bully or hazing at this point.
FOX25 spoke with sophomore Michael Delpriori with permission from his legal guardian and he says the player seen walking naked in the video is a classmate and friend.
"As my friend was walking to his locker naked, with a towel in his hand, that's what was on the video. It was very short but definitely very revealing," he said.
Students told FOX25 that they were disappointed with the decision impacting the entire football team, since about 10 students total were involved, according to police.
"It stinks. I think it's hard to kind of get mad at everybody you can't really punish a whole team for something like that," said senior Brandon Creador.
Parents said they are also disappointed, but these incidents are no longer shocking
"It's a constant battle with kids and technology," said Kurt Millar, parent of a Winthrop High School student.
Police would not discuss potential criminal charges. After the investigation is complete, students who were involved could be required to take part in a program where they are taught about the dangers of bullying and social media dangers.
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