THE Meadowbrook High School female student seen viciously beating a schoolmate in a video which went viral over the weekend, could be slapped with criminal charges this week.

A police source on Sunday told the Jamaica Observer that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is aware of the video and an investigation has been launched into the incident in which one girl was raining blows on the other, including stomping on her and kicking her in the face as she fell to the ground.

“Based on the video it is a clear case of assault, but we are investigating and an announcement could come as early as today,” said the source who was not authorised to speak with the media.

The altercation, which erupted between two grade 11 students on Friday, April 19 on Havendale Drive, metres from the school yard, has sent shockwaves through the Meadowbrook community, revered for its reputation of academic excellence and holistic education.

Principal of the school Kevin Facey expressed grave concern over the incident and declared that, following an investigation, appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken.

“We will continue our investigation on Monday and apply the sanctions available to us in our school handbook,” said Facey, noting that the students involved were dismissed from classes to step up their preparation for external exams.

“This incident occurred around 11:30 am, after they were sent home to commence their study break,” added Facey.

In the meantime, president of Meadowbrook High School Past Students’ Association Sharo-Ann Chisholm has voiced disappointment over the disturbing altercation between students at the prestigious institution.

“I am deeply troubled by recent social media videos depicting student altercations at our alma mater,” expressed Chisholm in a passionate statement. “We unequivocally denounce all forms of violence,” she added.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Chisholm reaffirmed the association’s pledge to uphold Meadowbrook High School’s values.

“These regrettable incidents do not reflect the true spirit of our school community,” she declared, pointing out that the past students’ association continues to collaborate with the school’s administration to address misconduct and ensure a positive learning environment for all students.

“The association, in collaboration with the school, vows to uphold the school motto, ‘Let your light so shine’,” added Chisholm.

This is the second incident involving female students from Meadowbrook High School which has gone viral in less than 18 months.

In November 2022 a video surfaced showing students from mainly grades 11 and 10 involved in a fracas.

In that video, members of the feuding group threw punches and tore at each other’s tunics and hair while hurling expletives amidst shrieks. Several male students were seen attempting to part the enraged females. Two adults also intervened.

Facey acknowledged to the Observer that the students involved in that earlier incident had not been expelled from the school.

“We did our investigations, we got incident reports, and we met with the parents and we applied the schools’ rules in the handbook, and sanctions were handed down. All of this is in keeping with the policies and practice of the Ministry of Education, and we are looking towards remediation upon their return,” Facey said then.