Parents Demand Action Following Violent Confrontation At Lincoln High School
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Following a violent confrontation at Lincoln High School, the Philadelphia School District is facing tough questions from parents. Some parents told Eyewitness News, violence at Lincoln is an ongoing problem and they are fed up.
Eyewitness News obtained the cell phone video of the confrontation exclusively. Sources say the video was considered so violent and vulgar, even Youtube would not allow it on its website. The video did make it onto Facebook but has since been taken off.
"It's crazy. It's just nuts."
A concerned father spoke to Eyewitness News but wished to remain anonymous. He says he pulled his daughter out of Lincoln on Friday after hearing rumors of another fight planned in retaliation for last week's fight.
"I don't know what it is. Why do they act like that?"
Eyewitness News learned from some students, the fight last Friday was over boys. A female Philadelphia police officer is seen in the video getting punched in the face while trying to break up the fight. Police say at least 6 girls were arrested.
Then on Monday, police sources say another fight broke out after school and on Wednesday, 4 adults snuck into school wearing Lincoln uniforms to try to settle an unrelated argument.
Cleo Kennedy, a Lincoln High School Junior, said, "With polo hats on, they looked very dangerous and they were just sitting there with our uniforms on like they went there."
Police say the 4 adults were immediately apprehended and arrested.
"Obviously, I was not aware of that. That's scary. I hope that's the end of it and we can move on from here," Joe DeFlice said.
DeFelice is the president of Mayfair Civic Association. He says he has been in constant communication with the school principal and he is aware the district is working on addressing neighborhood concerns.
According to district officials, they are working closely with the Philadelphia police to identify all the students involved and the responsible students will face appropriate disciplinary actions including expulsion.
In addition, officials say because 60% of the 1700 students take public transportation, officials know residents are concerned about that many students walking through their neighborhood to catch the bus. In response, work is underway to widen the school driveway to allow Septa buses to pull right up to the school and pick up students on school grounds.
Lastly, officials say to address any additional concerns residents may have, the school will have a staff member available to answer any questions until 4pm at Lincoln High School. You may voice your concerns or complaints by calling (215) 335-5653.
Reported By: Elizabeth Hur, CBS 3
