Charges Filed In Richland 44 Sexual Assault Investigation, Board President Issues Statement

The charges include felonious restraint, felony terrorizing, and misdemeanor sexual assault and hazing.

WAHPETON, ND – Five juveniles are accused of 13 counts of hazing and 11 counts of sexual assault at the Richland 44 School in Colfax.

The suspects and numerous male victims in various grades are all juveniles so no names have been released.

The alleged offenses happened in the boy’s locker room.

The five males have been referred to juvenile court for hazing, sexual assault, felonious restraint and terrorizing.

The offenses were investigated by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office and the BCI.

An incident that occurred in Bismarck has been turned over to the Bismarck Police Department.

No females were identified as victims.

The school has students in grades 7-12.

The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation is assisting.

School Board President Lisa Amundson commented on the juvenile referrals as follows:

“Obviously, the board and entire school community are deeply concerned at the seriousness of
these misconduct allegations among our students. The school board is grateful for the
involvement and dedication of law enforcement and the cooperation of our administrative staff in
investigating this matter to ensure a fair and independent process while protecting the rights and
privacy of Richland #44 students and families.

Although we recognize that many in our school community have been frustrated by the
perceived slow pace of this investigation, we commend law enforcement for its thoroughness.
Given the seriousness of the matter, we did not want to rush the outcome.

We ask for the support of all in our District, including students, teachers, parents, administration,
and community members in the coming days as we deal with these really troubling issues and
begin to rebuild a climate of trust and respect.”

Amundson noted that none of the students referred to Juvenile Court are currently attending class at District
facilities nor are they participating in extracurricular activities.

“We have taken steps to provide for their
education during the time they’re away from the school, while protecting the rights of victims until this matter is
resolved” said Amundson. Amundson also noted that any incidents discovered through the investigative
process, that didn’t rise to the level of violation of law, will be handled through the school district.