Robberies, Fights At HS Football Game Prompt Leaders To Move Future Kickoff Times

UPPER MARLBORO, MD — Reported robberies at a high school football game, along with fights, has caused school leaders to move football games from Friday nights to Saturdays during the day.

There were reports of a strong armed robbery, along with fights, in the parking lot during the Sept. 19 Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School varsity football game. At least one teen was arrested, while two others were treated for minor injuries, according to Prince George's County Police.

Not only will football games be moved to Saturday, but school officials will be enhancing security measures for all athletic events held at larger venues and increase staffing in cooperation with law enforcement, reports FOX5 DC.

Alleged robberies at a high school football game in Prince George's County, Maryland, on Friday led to one juvenile arrest, while two others were treated for minor injuries, according to county police.
Officials working a football game at Wise High School were told at around 7 p.m. of two robberies.
The officers later found two boys with minor injuries at the game, and said another boy was taken into custody, according to Prince George's County police. Several more police officers were later called to the scene to clear the crowd following the game, officials said.

In a statement shared with WJLA, school leaders said:

"The safety of students, staff and spectators is a top priority. All high school football games are staffed by PGCPS security and County Police, and all ticket holders must pass through security enhancements. We expect all students to follow the same behavioral expectations as those outlined in our Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook during school-sponsored events, and students can face serious consequences – such as suspension or expulsion – for their actions."

A PGCPS spokesperson also mapped out additional measures that will be taken moving forward, according to WJLA:

• Additional officers and sheriff deputies will be present to monitor the safety of the exterior at football games
• Increase resource officers within the interior area of the stadium during games to ensure one officer for every 100 people present
• Increase signage to advise the public that tickets must be purchased in advance. Individuals without advance tickets will be denied admission
• Additional coordination with the Prince George's County Police Department prior to each game to outline expectations and steps to effectively collaborate and communicate, ultimately to prevent violence and other disruption
• Release a safety and security Public Service Announcement to be shared in schools