Three arrested in connection with viral student assault video

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

The police said the incident occurred on Monday, November 25, 2024 when the 15-year-old now complainant was walking home from school.

In a release on Friday, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) said one of the suspects, Amir Campbell, along with several other students, reportedly 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 Campbell, causing swelling and pain.

Campbell and the others reportedly also threatened the now complainant, warning him not to report the incident.

He remained silent until November 27 when he was again reportedly assaulted by Campbell and other students at the same location. That incident was captured on video, which subsequently went viral.

The suspects who have been arrested – all young males – are reportedly linked to volatile communities in Hanover and St James.

Among those in custody is the main suspect, 17-year-old Amir Campbell, who has been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm. He is slated to appear in the Lucea Family Court on December 3, 2024.

Detectives from Police Area 1 are actively searching for two other suspects who were reportedly involved in the incident, as investigations continue.

Investigators have made significant progress, and are appealing to members of the public to come forward with any information that may assist in locating the remaining suspects.

The JCF expressed gratitude for the public's support as it works to address incidents of violence across all communities. It advised that anyone with information that is believed to be of significance to the particular investigation, to contact Police Emergency at 119, Crime Stop at 311, the NIB Tip Line at 811, or the nearest police station.