CLINTON, Mass. (WHDH) — Clinton High School is defending its decision to let a basketball player play after he was arrested for allegedly beating his girlfriend.
According to court paperwork, Herberto Rojas Jr. and his girlfriend got into an argument when driving in Fitchburg. His girlfriend said he punched her in the face multiple times. Police said the girlfriend had “swelling to the right side of her face and her lips as well as red marks on the side of her face.”
Rojas allegedly got out of the car and fled. Police later showed up at Clinton High School and arrested Rojas.
Rojas went to court on Friday, where he was arraigned on charges of assault and battery. He then returned to class and played basketball for the high school that night. School officials said since Rojas was not convicted, he is innocent until proven guilty and they permitted him to play. Some parents and students told 7News they disagreed with the school’s decision.
“Playing sports is a privilege and you have to follow the rules they set,” said parent Trisha Morse. “They set boundaries for the kids and you need to follow them.”
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