A Lincoln High School Resource Officer was told of a possible fight as classes dismissed on Wednesday. The officer then requested assistance from LPS staff.
The officer saw a 17 year old boy and a 15 year old boy trying to fight with another 17 year old boy. LPS Security Staff tried to break up the individuals and the SRO repeatedly told the 15 year old to leave. After being told several times, he left the area.
The SRO then stepped away to let LPS staff handle the situation and stood with the 17 year old victim who was being threatened by the other 17 year old student. The aggressor continued to pull away from staff and tried to get to the other student. Finally he broke away from staff and ran toward the officer and the victim. The SRO was able to stop an assault and de-escalate the situation. The teen continued to disregard requests to walk away. When they tried to detain him, he pushed past them and knocked down a member of the staff.
The SRO then called for assistance from LPD. He struggled to hold the 17 year old who was trying to assault LPS staff by swinging his elbows at their head.
During the struggle, about 50 students surrounded the SRO and staff. Some of the students threatened to assault the SRO for restraining the 17 year old. More officers arrived and while taking him into custody, the teen punched the SRO in the head. Officers were able to restrain him until they were able to get him into custody. As they were walking to the cruiser, the teen continued to struggle and pull away.
The 17-year-old was transported to the Lincoln Police station where he was turned over to a parent and referred for Disturbing the Peace by Fighting and Refuse to Comply with Order of Police.
Lincoln Police Administrators are reviewing the actions of the officer which includes review of body cam footage. At this time, no policy violations have been observed by the officer and his attempts to de-escalate the student are to be commended. Police rely rely heavily on the partnership with Lincoln Public School staff. The are grateful that this situation was resolved without injury to students, staff, or officers.