East Chicago school officials charged with entering student's home to retrieve stolen property
EAST CHICAGO, Ind. (WLS) -- The principal of a Northwest Indiana high school is among three officials now charged with entering a student's apartment to get back property that was allegedly stolen.
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In October, football players visiting East Chicago Central High School had items stolen from their lockers, officials said.
Police said three school officials went to the home of a student suspected in the theft and demanded the items be returned.
The three officials were identified as principal Abrian Brown, dean of students Corey Bailey and head varsity basketball coach Alaa Mroueh, according to court documents. They have been charged with felony residential entry.
Police say that while the officials' intentions were good, they should not have taken the law into their own hands.
School City of East Chicago issued the following statement Friday:
"Following a past incident involving the theft of items during a football game between our East Chicago Central High School and Hanover Central High School, we want to provide an important update. While the theft was an isolated incident, it was treated with utmost concern. Three East Chicago Central High School staff members were allegedly involved in retrieving stolen items from a student's home. As a result, these staff members were immediately placed on administrative leave while we conducted a thorough review of the situation. We have since concluded our investigation. We are fully cooperating with local law enforcement in the ongoing investigation. At the School City of East Chicago, we hold our students, staff, and school community to high standards and are committed to ensuring a safe and positive environment for all. We will continue to review our protocols to prevent similar incidents and maintain the trust of our community. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our community as we work to resolve this matter."
