RPD: Officer punched by student at Franklin high school campus

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — A teenager is facing charges after police said he punched an officer in the face at the Franklin High School campus in Rochester.

According to the Rochester Police Department, officers patrolling the campus saw the 17-year-old around 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, even through he had been suspended for fights at the school Tuesday. When security tried to get him to leave, he allegedly tried to start more fights.

Officers approached the boy and tried to take him into custody. That’s when police said he punched one officer in the face.

The boy was arrested and charged with assault, criminal trespass, and resisting arrest. He was arraigned Wednesday evening and taken to the Monroe County Children’s Center.

The officer was treated for injuries and was out of work Thursday, according to the RPD.

Franklin High School officially became Padilla High School at the Franklin Campus this month, with the beginning of the 2024-25 school year.

Full statement from RCSD Superintendent Demario Strickland

We are deeply concerned about yesterday’s incident outside of Padilla High School during which an officer was injured while attempting to de-escalate a situation involving a student.

Districtwide, we have taken significant steps to help ensure a safe environment for all, including partnering with the City of Rochester’s Pathways to Peace program to provide conflict resolution support and working closely with the Rochester Police Department, which maintains a regular presence during school dismissal at selected schools. Additionally, we have increased safety protocols, including additional Safety and Security staff, and are providing students with access to counseling and restorative practices aimed at addressing the root causes of these conflicts.

We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive school environment, and we will continue to prioritize measures that promote positive student behavior and ensure the security of everyone on campus.

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