CANTON TWP. ‒ The mother of a Canton South High freshman bullied and attacked in a school restroom on Monday is speaking out about what happened to her son.
“I just want justice and the kids that did this to not just get a slap on the wrist,” Fantasia Wallace said Wednesday. “What they did is not OK.”
To her, justice will mean that another parent doesn’t have to go through what she is experiencing.
Canton South viral bullying video
The Stark County Sheriff’s Office has charged two 16-year-old Canton South students in connection with the incident. One was charged with assault and theft, and the other, with assault.
The assault was recorded and shared on social media. The video shows a group of students verbally and physically assaulting a teen they accused of snitching, an allegation he denies during the confrontation.
Wallace is looking for action to be taken against other students who recorded video, and still more who watched the attack.
“There was quite a few in that bathroom that just stood there, watched, or videoed it,” she said. “They could have spoke up or went and got a teacher.”
Wallace said they deserved to be punished with more than a suspension.
Canton South student returns to class after viral video
She said her 14-year-old returned to school on Tuesday, but took Wednesday off and plans to return after the Thanksgiving break.
The Repository isn’t using his name because of his age and because he is a victim.
He was examined by the school nurse, and an aunt who is a nurse. Wallace said he was not physically injured.
“When he does talk about it, he does start crying,” she said. “But otherwise, he’s getting better about talking about it.”
She said her son had not been bullied at school prior to Monday’s incident. She described him as a normal teenager who enjoys soccer, spending time with his family, riding his bike, being outdoors and playing Xbox games.
Canton South community and beyond responds
Since news of the assault spread, well-wishers from near and far have offered support and gifts.
The Canton Township Fire Department has offered a fire station tour. A barber shop is offering the family free haircuts for a year. A boutique is offering to replace shoes and clothes. People from Illinois, Florida, Georgia, Alabama and North Carolina are sending donations and cards to the family, said Justin Nicely of Massillon, who is collecting items for Wallace and her son.
“It’s overwhelming,” Wallace said on Wednesday. “It’s very thoughtful. I wasn’t expecting any of this. I appreciate everything. What has happened over the last couple of days has been remarkable.”
She said school and law enforcement officials are communicating with her. She believes more charges are possible.
Wallace said she was told that school staff monitor restrooms. She said they need to do it all the time. She is puzzled by the fact that no one in authority knew there were 10, 12 or more students in the restroom when her son was assaulted.
Update: Authorities charge two 16-year-olds in assault at Canton South High School
Canton Local Schools Superintendent Brett Yeagley said in a statement to high school families that they are aware of the “disturbing incident.”
“Our administration started investigating immediately after being notified and is continuing to review all evidence from the incident,” he said.
The students will be disciplined consistent with school board policies, he said.
Staff writer Kelli Weir contributed to this story.
Reach Nancy at 330-580-8382 or nancy.molnar@cantonrep.com. On X, formerly known as Twitter: @nmolnarTR.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: Canton South High School student’s mother seeks justice for assault
