CHARLESTOWN, Ind. — Grandparents of a Charlestown teenager who took his own life May 20, 2023 are pushing for change in the school district.
Jase Emily was arrested and taken to Clark County Juvenile Detention Center for having a vape pen inside Charlestown High School.
"He was put in shackles and handcuffs, arrested and taken out of school without his parents knowledge, three days later he took his life," said his grandmother, Judy Gibson.
More than a year later, his grandparents continue to fight for justice.
Judy and William Gibson addressed the Greater Clark County Schools board Tuesday night, giving each board member a binder full of articles, research, correspondents, and laws they believe show that the school was in violation of Jase's constitutional rights when he was arrested.
"A 15 year old non-violent student, that had a 4.6 grade-point average," Judy said. "How could a 15 year old in shackles have any idea of being treated with dignity and respect?"
The Gibsons are demanding the school board replace the Charlestown High School school resource officer with a city officer.
A lawsuit was filed on behalf of Jase's family in 2023, claiming the teen was wrongfully arrested and detained, and his constitutional rights were violated.
"Jase was the sweetest most kind-hearted young man you would ever want to meet," William said. "My heart aches that this ray of sunlight is never to shine on us."
Clark County Schools Superintendent Mark Laughner said he was unable to comment due to pending litigation.
While there was no action taken Tuesday night, and no conclusion to the requests by the grandparents, the Gibsons told WHAS11 News they will keep pushing the school board.
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