Police investigate sex battery case involving Lake Howell football players

DELAND, Fla. — DeLand police confirmed to Channel 9’s Cierra Putman that they are investigating reports of a sexual battery at Stetson University.

The incident happened while students from Lake Howell High School were at football camp July 27, police said.

Police said they received a complaint from the abuse hotline that a victim said he was held against his will by three upperclassmen and raped. The rest of the details have been redacted by DeLand police.

The 14-year-old victim told his mother what happened. She then told someone else, who reported the incident to the abuse hotline, investigators said. Police said the mother refused to cooperate with the investigation, so police couldn’t talk to the accused victim, police said.

Channel 9's Cierra Putman learned the football players from Lake Howell High School attended a Fellowship of Christian Athletes football camp last week.

The camp director told Eyewitness News that about 600 student athletes attended the session, which ran from Wednesday to Friday.

The camp director said players worked on their skills at Sperling Sports Complex, attended church service and would eat and sleep at Stetson University.

A spokesperson for Seminole County Public Schools said they're aware of the investigation, but it's too early to know if any players will face disciplinary action.

No charges have been filed.

"This matter is under investigation and Fellowship of Christian Athletes is gathering facts. All affected by this situation remain in our heartfelt prayers. FCA continues to maintain high standards of morality and personal conduct for all of our student athletes, and volunteers. Due to the investigation and proceedings taking place, we are not able to make further comments."

Cox Media Group