West Forsyth Students Accused Of Vandalizing Roswell High's Field

ROSWELL, GA — Students from West Forsyth High School are accused of vandalizing the Roswell High School band field after the game between the schools was cancelled Friday, Sept. 13.

Videos on social media from Snapchat show a truck doing doughnuts on the field, which was muddy from the rain. A second video shows the damage the next day, including deep tire tracks all along the field and beer cans in the parking lot. Band parents and students worked for hours Saturday, Sept. 14, to try to repair the field.

Roswell High School Principal Robert Shaw sent a letter to band parents that said he is also frustrated and upset about the vandalism.

"I know how much work our students put into marching band and I am also aware of the time, talent, and treasure that our band parents put into the program, including the folks who went to the school on Saturday to try and make the field usable," Shaw wrote.

Shaw said he has been in contact with Fulton Schools police officials and district leadership, including board member Katha Stuart. He also said he spoke with West Forsyth High School principal Karl Mercer.

"Like me, he is working with his leadership and school police to determine who is responsible for what occurred," Shaw wrote. "Please keep in mind that this is a criminal police investigation so the information that can be shared is very limited. I will communicate with you, through (band directors) Mr. Moon and Mr. Long, any information that I can share, as soon as I can. Finding those responsible is the priority for both Fulton and Forsyth County Schools. I truly want to thank all of you for the hard work and support, not only of our band program, but of all the students of Roswell High School."

Forsyth County Schools said in a statement they apologize to the Roswell High School students, staff and parents for the "inexcusable actions of two West Forsyth High School students."

“We are working with Fulton County school and police officials on the investigation and will ensure that those responsible for the vandalism received the appropriate consequence," Forsyth Schools said.

Roswell High School will compete in its first band competition this Saturday, Sept. 21.