File photo of a basketball hoop
Ledyard police say there was not enough probable cause to file criminal charges in a racially charged incident during a girls varsity basketball game at Ledyard High School in February.
After a game between Ledyard High and Colchester's Bacon Academy, parents from both teams began arguing and some refused to leave the gym, according to police.
Officers responded to the school to ensure everyone was able to leave the gym safely and learned someone had allegedly used a racial slur either during or after the game.
According to an investigation by Ledyard's superintendent, a member of Ledyard's basketball team heard an adult use a racial slur directed at the team after the game.
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Police conducted interviews and reviewed video from several sources, according to investigators.
After consulting with the New London State's Attorney's Office, and reviewing an arrest warrant affidavit, the state's attorney determined there was insufficient probable cause in the case, according to police.
According to a post on the Ledyard Public Schools Facebook page, the State's Attorney's Office noted that "it appears to be clear that parents associated rival school used a racial slur at the conclusion of the girls basketball game."
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The post also said the state's attorney did not grant the arrest warrant because the "racially offensive language" was protected speech and there was no proof the person intended to cause a disturbance.
"The lack of criminal charges in this case does not excuse the disgusting language and the impact it had on our students and communities," the statement read.
