“Inappropriate physical behavior” has led to the suspension of Hinkley High School soccer players, and the incident is being investigated by police.
The Sept. 30 incident allegedly took place on a bus taking Hinkley varsity and junior varsity boys soccer players back to the school after a varsity game in Arvada, said Aurora Public Schools Superintendent John Barry.
“We have zero tolerance for inappropriate physical behavior and harassment of any kind,” Barry said.
Barry declined to spell out what the players allegedly did or how many players were involved. “We have students who have been suspended” as the investigation continues, he said.
An “adult” brought the situation to the attention of school officials, who contacted police.
The Denver Police Department is working on an independent investigation.
“The bus was passing through Denver on its way back to Aurora,” said Loretta Beauvais, a police spokeswoman.
Beauvais declined to go into detail, citing a possible juvenile victim, or victims, as well as juvenile suspects in the “open investigation.”
At this point, Denver police investigators suspect a possible misdemeanor sex crime and possible misdemeanor harassment took place.
Two employees of the school district were on the bus acting in a supervisory capacity during the ride, Barry said. He declined to identify the pair, who are being evaluated for possible “inappropriate supervision.”
“We have not fired any teachers,” Barry said.
“Employee disciplinary action may include reprimand, suspension or termination,” he added.
School officials and staff, Barry said, are “working with parents to help them discuss this matter with their children.”
Kieran Nicholson: 303-954-1822 or knicholson@denverpost.com
