The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has confirmed that three persons have been arrested in connection with the assault of a female student from Hopewell High School, which was captured on video and widely shared online.

The incident occurred on Monday, November 25, when the 15-year-old complainant was walking home from school.

A 17-year-old minor, along with several other students, ambushed the young boy behind a church in the vicinity of the Orchard community. He was reportedly kicked in the head, neck, and back and was repeatedly slapped in the face by the 17-year-old, causing swelling and pain. The teen and the others involved also threatened the complainant, warning him not to report the incident.

He remained silent until November 27, when he was again assaulted by the 17-year-old and other students in the same location. This incident was captured on video, which went viral.

The young men arrested are reportedly linked to volatile communities in Hanover and St James. Among those in custody is the main suspect, a 17-year-old, who has been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm.

He is slated to appear before the Lucea Family Court on December 3, 2024. Detectives from Police Area 1 are actively searching for two other suspects involved in the incident, as investigations continue.

If you have any information that you believe may be of assistance to this investigation, please contact Police Emergency at 119, Crime Stop at 311, the NIB Tip Line at 811 or the nearest police station.