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Rhode Island AG Opens Civil Probe Into Smithfield High Antisemitic Hazing Case

Investigators seek district records by Nov. 13 to assess compliance with anti-harassment obligations.

Overview

  • The inquiry follows a parent complaint alleging a Sept. 30 locker-room assault and harassment based on the student’s Jewish identity, with Jewish Alliance leaders reporting the boy was barricaded, sprayed, and taunted with slurs.
  • The attorney general’s letter requests nondiscrimination policies, communications, and disciplinary records, and states no determination has been made.
  • Superintendent Dawn Bartz says the district acted under policy and rejects antisemitism, while limiting disclosures on legal counsel’s advice.
  • Earlier this month the district said several players were out for the season after finding “inappropriate conduct,” but Jewish groups later reported five were back at practice without a public explanation.
  • The Smithfield School Committee plans to consider authorizing a review of the administration’s response, as elected officials and faith leaders publicly criticized the handling of the case.