The San Diego Police Department sex crime unit has launched an investigation into the alleged hazing incident at Mira Mesa High School.
The department confirmed to NBC 7 on Thursday it is looking into the alleged hazing incident involving Mira Mesa High's junior varsity football team.
The school has also launched an investigation into the incident, principal Jeff Sabins told NBC 7 in a statement.
He also sent two emails to parents Wednesday letting them about the reported incident.
The first outlined the allegations but didn’t provide any details because of laws protecting students' privacy.
“I have just learned about an alleged incident involving several of our JV football players,” Sabins said. “As a result of this incident, I have canceled the combined freshman and JV game scheduled for tomorrow, October 4th at University City High School.”
The JV football team’s practice was also canceled, the principal said.
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“I don’t take the decision to cancel a game lightly,” Sabins said. “I need to be confident that we have an understanding that hazing will not be tolerated and develop a plan to ensure that all students are safe at all times.”
The second email informed parents of a forum at 6 p.m. Thursday at the school's media center to further discuss any hazing concerns parents may have.
The JV and freshmen football coaches are expected to attend.
Read Sabins' full statement to NBC 7:
“The Mira Mesa High School administration learned of alleged hazing occurring among some members of the Junior Varsity football team. In response, the school: launched an investigation into the allegations, which continues; canceled a JV football practice and game scheduled for Thursday; and notified the entire school community of the reports of alleged hazing.
I have directed football staff to increase off-field supervision of football team members. Tomorrow night, I will meet with football families to review our commitment to keep students safe on and off the field.”
