Statement Regarding Pepper Spray Incident

PEPPER SPRAY DEPLOYED AT NARBONNE HIGH SCHOOL

Los Angeles –   During the morning nutrition break, at approximately 10 a.m. a fight broke out between two female students at Narbonne High School.  The fight attracted a large crowd that surrounded the incident, preventing the Los Angeles School Police Officer from coming to the aid of the fallen student.  The crowd did not heed commands to disperse by school staff or the officer.  Concerned for the safety of the fallen student and for the officer’s own safety, the officer dispensed a short burst of pepper spray into the air to disperse the crowd.  The dispensing of the pepper spray allowed the officer to come to the aid of the fallen student and break up the fight. Approximately 30 to 40 students were examined, for possible pepper spray exposure. One student was transported to an area hospital for precautionary measures.  The students involved in the fight have been cited.  The Los Angeles School Police is currently investigating this use-of-force incident, in accordance with official department policy.  A letter from the principal will be sent to parents and guardians regarding the incident. Counselors will be at the school on Friday in case they are needed.