Sheriff: Reported hazing incident at Claiborne County High School under investigation

TAZEWELL, Tenn. (WATE) — Sheriff Bob Brooks said Wednesday that a possible hazing incident at Claiborne County High School is under investigation.

Brooks told 6 News that school officials contacted the sheriff’s office to investigate “a reported hazing incident” at the school. The New Tazewell Police Department is now leading the investigation.

A New Tazewell Police spokesperson said that the department is investigating an incident that occurred Tuesday at the school but declined to comment further. District Attorney General Jared Effler said he was aware of the investigation.

The Claiborne County School District released the following statement from Assistant Director of Schools Danna Smith.

“On the afternoon of July 30, 2024, Claiborne County Schools administration became aware of a possible incident related to Claiborne County High School students. Administration immediately contacted the Sheriff’s Office, asking law enforcement to take the lead in conducting a full investigation into this situation. Because this involves allegations concerning students, both state and federal confidentiality laws prohibit the school system from offering any specific comments at this time.”

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