Niles North football suspended due to hazing investigation

The Niles North high school football program has suspended all activities until further notice while an investigation is being conducted due to allegations of hazing.

It is important to note that there have been no formal charges made, and officials have not released any official details about the incident.

Niles North principal James Edwards sent out a note to parents to go along with a statement from District 219.

“The safety and security of our students is our top priority,” said Niles North Principal James Edwards. “We have zero tolerance of hazing or even the threat of it. Because this is a matter that involves student confidentiality, we ask that our students and families be patient as the investigation unfolds.”

According to the statement from the district, Niles North immediately notified the police department and the two are now working in conjunction.

In a statement released Tuesday morning, Skokie Police Sgt. John Moersfelder said interviews of “juvenile athletes/students and coaching staff will take place over the next few days.”

These allegations came just a week after five Wheaton College football players faced felony charges for another hazing incident.

This is not the first time the CSL has had issues with hazing. In 2003, 15 students from Glenbrook North were charged for a hazing incident during a powder puff football match.

In 2012, Maine West was at the center of a scandal when five former athletes said they were physically assaulted in hazing rituals. The case was later settled in 2016.

This is an ongoing story and investigation. Check back later for updates.