Full Breakdown
Anti-Bullying Rally in Bay Roberts Responds to Alleged Assault at Ascension Collegiate
By Drooid · · How we work
Context and Community Response
A video circulating on social media appeared to show one teenage boy beating another in a public washroom at Ascension Collegiate high school in Bay Roberts, Newfoundland and Labrador. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed that two youths were arrested after the incident was reported on Sept. 20. One youth faces charges of assault and forcible confinement; the other faces a charge of forcible confinement. Both are due to make a first court appearance in December. The identities of the youths are protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, and CBC has not independently verified the video.
In reaction, residents gathered outside the school with handmade anti-bullying signs. Parent Natasha Browne, who organized the rally after seeing the video, said the incident “struck a chord” with the community. A line of motorcycles and cars passed the school, revving horns in solidarity. Harbour Grace-Port de Grave Member of the House of Assembly Pam Parsons, who was on campus earlier in the day, remained for the rally.
Official Statements & Responses
Education Minister Paul Dinn called the incident “horrendous” and noted that the province’s “safe and caring schools” policy is under review by a departmental committee, with an expectation of a revised policy to address such issues. The Department of Education issued a statement affirming that students, teachers and staff are entitled to a safe environment, that school administration handled the incident at the time, and that the RCMP was notified for any further action.
Verbatim Quotes
Next Legal Steps
The two youths charged in connection with the washroom assault are scheduled for a first appearance in court in December, as indicated by the RCMP. No further disciplinary details have been released due to privacy protections.