Oklahoma school faces US federal probe in the wake of Nex Benedict’s death
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US Federal Officials Launch Investigation into Oklahoma School District Following Teen’s Death
Federal authorities have confirmed that they are initiating an investigation into the Oklahoma school district where high school student Nex Benedict tragically passed away after a physical altercation last month.
Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old Two Spirit individual who identified as gender non-conforming and used he/they pronouns, died on February 8th, just one day after disclosing to his family about being involved in a fight in the bathrooms at Owasso High School.
Criticism has been directed towards Owasso Public Schools for their failure to report the altercation to law enforcement or seek immediate medical attention for Nex Benedict following the incident.
The US Department of Education sent a letter to LGBTQ+ advocacy organization Human Rights Campaign, indicating their intention to investigate Owasso Public Schools for their alleged mishandling of sex-based harassment that may have contributed to Nex Benedict’s tragic death.
This investigation was prompted by a formal complaint lodged by the Human Rights Campaign, demanding a probe into Benedict’s treatment at Owasso High School. The organization urged the Department of Justice to investigate the matter and hold those responsible for the incident accountable.
According to police reports, Nex Benedict was taken to the hospital on February 7th after sustaining injuries during the altercation, including scratches and bruises to the head. Law enforcement was reportedly not informed of the incident until after Benedict was hospitalized.
The following day, emergency medical personnel responded to a distress call involving Nex Benedict. He was transported to a pediatric emergency room where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
The cause of Nex Benedict’s death is currently pending investigation, with his family conducting their own inquiries into the circumstances surrounding his passing. The possibility of pursuing murder charges has not been ruled out by the Owasso Police Department.
In response to the tragedy, over a dozen former classmates of Nex Benedict staged a school walkout to protest his death and show solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community at the school. Students displayed signs bearing messages of love and support for queer individuals as they gathered near the school premises.
The Department of Education’s response to the Human Rights Campaign’s complaint affirmed the initiation of an investigation into Owasso Public Schools for alleged discriminatory practices related to sex-based harassment at Owasso High School during the previous academic year.
The tragic death of Nex Benedict has sparked outrage and calls for justice within the community, with many demanding accountability for the events leading up to his passing. As federal authorities delve into the circumstances surrounding this incident, the pursuit of truth and justice remains paramount in ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
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