UPDATED: Brevard County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the Viera High School hazing incident involving football players simulating sexual acts with one another, which they say possibly occurred Aug. 14.
The mother of one of the victims in the Viera High Football assault, Dr. Taylor A. addresses the school board about what happened to her son. She said her son has been deeply affected. Several players have been suspended and the varsity head football coach was relieved of his duties.
The entire football program has been put on hold at Viera High School as a hazing investigation is underway. The varsity head coach has been relieved of duty and some students suspended after a video surfaced on social media.
What is the Viera High School Hazing Video?
The Viera High School hazing video is a 41-second clip that shows some members of the Viera High School football team in Florida simulating sexual acts with each other and trying to pull down the shorts of one student, while others laugh and cheer. The video was posted online and went viral in August 2023, sparking outrage and condemnation from the public and school officials.
How did the incident happen?
According to the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, the incident possibly occurred on August 14, 2023, in a locker room at Viera High School. However, the school administration did not find out about it until August 16, 2023, when they received a report from a concerned parent. The next day, they took immediate action to ensure the safety of the students who were targeted, address those responsible for the incident, and review any failure of staff or policy that could have prevented the incident from happening.
What are the consequences of the incident?
The incident has resulted in several consequences for the students, the coach, and the football program involved. Some of the consequences are:
• The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office launched a criminal investigation into the incident, interviewing all parties involved and collecting evidence and statements. Once the case is finalized, it will be forwarded to the Brevard County State Attorney’s Office for review and a filing decision regarding any criminal actions that occurred.
• The Brevard Public Schools Superintendent Mark Rendell suspended all varsity and junior varsity football team activities and relieved the varsity football coach Shane Staples of his duties until further notice. Staples had been head coach since 2022 and led the team to a 0-10 record in 2022.
• All Viera High School football players were required to take part in an anti-hazing educational program before the district would consider reinstating the football program. The district also hosted a parent-player team meeting on August 21, 2023, to work on improving team culture.
• Several players were suspended from school as a result of the district’s investigation. It is not clear how many players were involved or how long their suspensions will last.
What are the reactions to the incident?
The incident has generated various reactions from different stakeholders. Some of the reactions are:
• The Viera High School principal Heather Legate sent an email to parents over the weekend, informing them about the incident and expressing her disappointment and disgust. She also urged parents to talk to their children about appropriate behavior and respect.
• The Viera High School community was shocked and saddened by the incident. Some students said they felt embarrassed and ashamed by what their peers did. Some parents said they felt betrayed and angry by what their children witnessed or participated in. Some alumni said they felt disappointed and disgusted by what their former school represented.
• The public was outraged and appalled by the incident. Some people called for harsher punishments for the students and the coach. Some people questioned the culture and values of the school and the football program. Some people expressed sympathy and support for the victims of the hazing.
