Anti-Bullying Rally Set In Brick In Wake Of Attack On Boy

NOTE: This article has been updated with additional information.

BRICK, NJ — The family of a Brick Township boy who was attacked by a group of kids at Lake Riviera Park is organizing an anti-bullying rally at the park on Saturday.

The rally is set for 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the park at 371 Lake Shore Drive in Brick.

The attack happened the evening of Sept. 14, when the 13-year-old boy was fishing at Lake Riviera Park, the boy's father said. A group of about 20 kids — some middle schoolers, some high school freshmen — cornered the boy on the dock while two members of the group humiliated him with inappropriate touches and acts, the father said. Read more: Group Of Teens Assaulted Boy, 13, At Park In Brick, Dad Alleges

One of the attackers is the child of a former Brick Township police officer, the father alleges, and he said the attack followed repeated incidents of bullying of his son by the same kids during the 2022-23 school year.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer said the prosecutor's office is aware of the alleged incident and has spoken with both Brick Township police and Brick Township Schools officials.

"As I’m sure you are aware, this matter involves juveniles and all parties are legally precluded from commenting," he said.

The father shared a screenshot of a Facebook message he received from a mother of one of the boys in the group after he went to the family's home to confront them the night of the incident.

"Don't ever come to my house like that unless you want me to do something!" she wrote. "Trespassing and harassment on you!! You need to get your facts straight. It was ---! Idk how ---'s name is involved he was just there. Hope --- is OK. They used to be such good friends," the message says.

Patch is not identifying any of the people involved because of the nature of the alleged assault. No charges have been filed.

The father said he wants to see justice for his son and wants to see bullying addressed in a meaningful way, which is why the family is organizing Saturday's rally.

"What if my son came home and took his life because he felt so embarrassed?" the father said. "Things have to change."