Lake George, Warrensburg, Bolton football team investigation continues

WARREN COUNTY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Police are still investigating an alleged incident of sexual misconduct on the Lake George, Warrensburg and Bolton football team -- the number one high school football team in New York. All three schools decided this past weekend to cancel the remainder of the combined football team's season due to the allegations and investigation.

The Warren County Sheriff's Office said Monday that they could not comment on the investigation as it is very active. All three schools said they counseling services will be offered at the schools this week for any students who are struggling in light of the situation.

"To support students as they process this challenging situation, school counselors will be available throughout the week to offer guidance and assistance. We encourage any student struggling with their emotions, or uncertain how to deal with a difficult situation with peers, to reach out or stop by the counseling office, regardless of their involvement in football," said Lake George Superintendent John Luthringer.

According to a statement from all three superintendents, multiple students on the combined Lake George, Warrensburg and Bolton football team are accused of participating in sexual misconduct toward another student on the team.

Many people in Warren County are deeply upset about the situation.

"Basically outraged, because when I went to school you didn't do that, we had chaperones," said Tom Dennis, a Glens Falls resident.

The schools said this incident took place on a district bus, but they weren't notified of it until weeks later, on Oct. 30. The school responded immediately and a police investigation began on Halloween.

“They’re there for an education, not to get harassed not to get bullied," said Dennis. “The one thing that really gets me agitated is where were the coaches."

NEWS10 spoke with people in Lake George on Saturday, who agreed the action that the school took was necessary.

“I mean it's definitely a little shocking but i mean at the same time there’s got to be a punishment and unfortunately the people who didn't do anything they kind of get dragged down," said Salvatore Astuto, a Glens Falls resident.

“It sounds like they’re doing the right thing if they’re investigating and they’re stopping the kids from playing right now until they know exactly what happened, because somebody suffered from this," said Debbie Ferry, a St. Lawrence County resident.

As part of the schools' statement, they said the reason they're canceling the rest of the season is because more than one student was involved.

“Due to the alleged participation of a number of student-athletes involved in the incident, both directly and indirectly, there will be disciplinary action taken against any students according to each district’s code of conduct and athletic code of conduct," said Amy Langworthy, Warrensburg Central School District superintendent, John Luthringer, Lake George Central School District superintendent and Chad Shippee, Bolton Central School District superintendent.

The Wolverines football team was ranked number one in the state, however according to Matthew Stein, president with Section 2 Athletics, that has changed. Greenwich High School is now the number one seed, Cambridge and Salem High Schools' team is number two and Stillwater High School is number three.

There are only three teams in the bracket this season because Stein said the other remaining teams in Class D were unable to meet the minimum eligible player rules for football.

Stick with NEWS10 for updates on this situation.