3rd Grader Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Student At Elementary School In Riverside
RIVERSIDE (CBSLA.com) — Officials at Adams Elementary School in Riverside are investigating a report that a third grader sexually assaulted another student.
Authorities said they were first made aware of the allegations on Monday.
"As soon as staff was made aware, the school contacted the Riverside Police Department, who in turn contacted Child Protective Services to investigate," the Riverside Unified School District said in a statement, which continued: "Because of the ongoing investigation and age of those involved, details about the incidents cannot be shared."
Adams Elementary (located at 8632 Colorado Ave.) took "disciplinary action" against the student who allegedly committed the act.
Officials believe the alleged incident only involved the two students.
Letters were sent home to parents Wednesday and the school will hold a meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday to address concerned parents.
The district says it will provide counseling services to any student or staff member who might be disturbed by the allegations.
KCAL9's Crystal Cruz reported the alleged crime took place between two male students.
She also reported that the alleged assaults started happening last year -- in the school bathroom and in the classroom.
Cruz reported the suspect was suspended from school and faces expulsion.
Reports of school sexual assaults are not new, Cruz noted, but the nature of this case had some parents blown away.
"It's just absolutely unacceptable," said Melyssa Naylor. "Kids are growing up way too fast."
"I would like to take this time to urge you (parents) to remind your students to let an adult know immediately any time they see or hear of something that makes them feel afraid or uncomfortable. We are never too busy to listen. Your children's safety and comfort at school are our top priority," Principal Paul DeFoe said in a statement.
