GREAT BEND -Following Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir’s press briefing on his department’s investigation of the alleged assault on a Great Bend school  activity bus, USD 428 responded.

“The district fully appreciates the seriousness of the allegations and is as concerned about them as our students, their parents and our community is,” the statement said.

“The district is not involved in the criminal process. As we have indicated before, the district is prohibited from disclosing the names or any details regarding disciplinary actions taken. Information concerning changes in practices and policies made by the district regarding student supervision has previously been provided to the public.

We will continue to focus on the safety and well being of all our students.

We ask for the community’s support of all the children and families involved as the legal process plays out.”

During his Wednesday press briefing, Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir said, “The investigation supported evidence that the crimes of aggravated criminal sodomy, battery and criminal restraint occurred.”
The investigation involved two high school students, a 15-year-old victim and a 17-year-old suspect, according to Bellendir.

The case was given to the Barton County Attorney on Monday to determine if charges will be filed.