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3 Somerville High School Soccer Players Arrested On Rape Charges

OTIS (CBS) – Three Somerville High School junior varsity soccer players are facing rape charges after an alleged attack at a team building camp in western Massachusetts.

The three students were attending Camp Lenox in Otis this past weekend as part of an annual retreat for Somerville's Fall sports teams.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Bernice Corpuz reports

3 Somerville High School Soccer Players Arrested On Rape Charges

Police say on Sunday, the three suspects, who are all juniors at the school, entered a cabin where freshmen students were staying and sexually assaulted three victims.

Galileo Mondol, 17, was arrested on Friday and charged with one count of aggravated rape of a child under 16, two counts of assault with intent to rape a child under 16, one count of indecent assault and battery on a person who has attained 14 years of age, three counts of assault and battery by means of a dangerous weapon and three counts of intimidation of a witness or other person.

The two other suspects, both 16 years old, are being arraigned in juvenile court on similar charges. Their names have not been released.

Somerville High School's athletic department says it was notified about the allegations on Tuesday by a parent. Officials immediately conducted a meeting, determined the report was credible, and reported the alleged crime to police and the Department of Children and Families.

"These allegations go far beyond hazing. This is rape," Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone said in a news conference.

City and school officials said in a news conference Friday night that they are cooperating with the investigation and focusing their resources on the victims. They have met with victims and their parents along with other team members and their parents.

"Our immediate focus after reporting the incident to the appropriate authorities was providing support services to the victims, students, and the families. That remains our focus now," Mayor Curatone said.

Curatone emphasized that the incident appears to be isolated.

"In no way are these allegations a reflection on the team, our kids, (or) our community," he said.

somerville
Somerville Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone addresses the media over an alleged rape by three Somerville High School soccer players. (Photo from Bernice Corpuz)

Somerville School Superintendent Tony Pierantozzi said he intended to make sure resources were available for anyone who needs them.

"All of us, frankly, are horrified," Pierantozzi said."We will ensure to the best of our ability that everyone and anyone who needs support will have it."

In a statement, Berkshire District Attorney's office commended Somerville school officials and coaches for a quick response to the allegations.

"I want to extend my appreciation to the Somerville school authorities and coaches, who acted quickly and appropriately when they became aware of these allegations," District Attorney David Capeless said. "We are disturbed and appalled that these crimes may have taken place and our thoughts and concerns are with the victims and their families."

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