Reports surfaced Monday that Cleveland’s boys’ and girls’ basketball teams broke curfew and engaged in inappropriate conduct after a basketball double-header last Friday in Oak Ridge.
The Blue Raiders and Lady Blue Raiders played doubleheaders at Fulton and Oak Ridge over the weekend.
On Tuesday, Russell Dyer, director of Cleveland schools, released a statement through the public relations department on the incident:
“It came to our attention mid-day Monday that 12 members of the girls and boys basketball teams broke curfew after a game in Oak Ridge last Friday night.
Some of those students engaged in inappropriate behavior, resulting in a five-day out of school suspension.
In the coming days, a formal activity council will review the conduct of all 12 students and determine any consequences related to the students’ ongoing participation in the basketball programs. The review will conclude on Friday afternoon.
“While we are continuing with our internal investigation, we have been in contact with the Cleveland Police Department regarding this matter and they may consult with the District Attorney's office concerning any possible legal ramifications.
The girls’ and boys’ basketball programs will continue as scheduled for the remainder of the season.”
Both teams will participate in the Cleveland Holiday Tournament scheduled Dec. 27-29.
The boys’ team is coached by Jason McCowan and the girls’ coach is Tony Williams
Chattanoogan.com attempted to contact Dyer on Tuesday afternoon, but was told by his administrative assistant he was out of the office.
“He is aware of the situation,” said Andrea Byerly, “and when he is ready to make a comment on the situation he will.”
The statement was emailed at 4:36 p.m.
A call was also placed to Autumn O’Brien, the Cleveland principal. A person in the school office said O’Brien was out and was scheduled to be at “three different places.”
(Contact Larry Fleming at larryfleming44@gmail.com and on Twitter @larryfleming44)