Teen Arrested for Swastikas at Montco School

Pa. teen charged over swastikas at school: police

Police say a 14-year-old suburban Philadelphia high school student has been charged with ethnic intimidation for allegedly drawing swastikas on another boy's papers.

Perkiomen Valley High School officials said Wednesday that six other students also continued the intimidation and the district is still reviewing the facts to determine if further action is needed. School spokeswoman Jessica Lester says the students were disciplined. Their names have not been released.

The Pottstown Mercury reports police say the 14-year-old boy was arrested Tuesday and charged with ethnic intimidation, harassment and other counts. The boy allegedly put the swastikas and "intimidating ethnic caricatures" on the victim's health paperwork, according to a press release from Pennsylvania State Police.

School officials say they contacted police for assistance on March 21 because it appeared it wasn't an isolated incident.

A statement released by the Perkiomen Valley School District says in part that the school already has a variety of anti-bullying and tolerance programs and opportunities in place and that incidents like this one are isolated to just a handful students:

We work hard to create a learning environment where students feel safe and free from threats. When that safety is compromised, we are sure to act swiftly to identify the cause and to respond appropriately. We will continue to investigate this incident and determine the best ways to further engage our students in discussions and programs that encourage acceptance and promote diversity. On the whole, our student body already embraces these values and we are certain they will join us in working to maintain a secure and positive atmosphere at our school.

No one was at the school Thursday since students and staff are on spring break.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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