Statement from County Executive Ike Leggett Regarding the Rape at Rockville High School

County Executive Ike Leggett made this statement following the allegations of the rape of a Rockville High School Student:

"I was immediately sick and disgusted when it was reported that two young men raped a 14-year-old student at Rockville High School last Thursday. This should not happen. Period. My deepest condolences go out to this young girl and her family.

Thankfully, the alleged rapists were arrested by the police. The judicial process is underway and the County is fully cooperating with the federal authorities, in keeping with our long-standing policy.

In addition, I know that Police Chief Thomas Manger is hard at work with his staff investigating what happened and reevaluating safety procedures to ensure our students are safe and their parents don’t have to worry about their well-being. We are working with School Superintendent Jack Smith, school administrators and the entire Rockville High School community to make certain this type of incident never happens again.

Although these individuals had no previous involvement in the County’s criminal justice system, these alleged rapists do have outstanding U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) orders. After the judicial process is completed, and consistent with our long-standing policy, the County will continue to cooperate fully with ICE to see that the two are deported to their countries of origin.

To the Rockville High School community and the neighborhoods it serves, I want you to know that the County government and the school system will do whatever is necessary to keep your children safe."

A Message from Jack R. Smith, Superintendent of Schools - Serious Incident at Rockville High School