WASHINGTON — An investigation is underway at Gar-Field High School in Woodbridge after a student was allegedly sexually assaulted in the school bathroom. Principal Matthew Mathison sent a letter to parents a month after the sexual assault was initially reported to police.
WUSA9 is investigating if there was a delay in the notification to parents and why.
On Oct. 18, detectives began an investigation into a sexual assault that was reported to have happened in the school bathroom earlier that same day.
Investigators say a female student, under the age of 18, and another student, later identified as 18-year-old Lamine Mellouk, were in a restroom together when the sexual assault occurred.
According to police, the students separated and the girl reported the assault to a family member, who then contacted police.
On Nov. 27, 18-year-old Lamine Mellouk was charged with misdemeanor sexual battery following an investigation into the assault, according to a released from Prince William County Police that was sent out on Nov 30.
Principal Mathew Mathison sent a letter out to Gar-Field High families on Nov. 30 notifying them of the ongoing investigation into the sexual assault.
"Dear Parents/Guardians:
I am writing to inform you that the Prince William County Police Department will be releasing information about a sexual assault charge being brought against one of our students. The alleged assault occurred at our school last month and has been under investigation. The incident was reported to the police when we were made aware.
As always, I encourage you to talk with your students, and should they ever feel unsafe at school or witness any concerning event, they should report it to you or a trusted adult as soon as possible. Please contact the office at any time if you have questions or concerns.
Thank you for your ongoing support of Gar-Field High School.
Sincerely,
Matthew Mathison"
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