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Today, community leaders, civil rights advocates, parents, and attorneys gathered for a press conference following the deeply disturbing incident involving a student being tased by law enforcement at Langston Hughes High School. The incident has raised urgent and serious questions about the use of force against minors, the role of law enforcement in schools, and whether current policies truly protect students.

The press conference featured remarks from the student’s mother, who spoke powerfully about the impact the incident has had on her child and family, as well as from the student’s attorneys, Gerald Griggs and Harry Daniels, who addressed the legal concerns raised by the use of force against a minor on a school campus and outlined the next steps toward accountability and justice.

A Troubling Use of Force Against a Student

According to information shared during the press conference, a student at Langston Hughes High School was subjected to the use of a Taser by law enforcement while on campus. The circumstances surrounding the incident have sparked outrage and concern throughout the community, particularly among parents who expect schools to be environments where conflicts are handled through de-escalation and appropriate student discipline—not weapons.

“This is about accountability and student safety,” said Gerald Griggs, who stressed that the use of force against a child must always be scrutinized and justified under the highest legal and ethical standards. “No student should leave school traumatized by law enforcement conduct.”

Calls for Transparency and Accountability
During the press conference, speakers emphasized the broader implications of this incident, noting that it reflects a troubling trend of excessive law enforcement involvement in school discipline. Attorney Gerald Griggs underscored the need for immediate transparency and public accountability.
Among the demands raised were:
A full and independent investigation into the incident
The release of all body-worn camera footage and school surveillance video
Accountability for any violations of policy or law
Policy reforms to limit the use of force by law enforcement in school settings

Schools Should Be Places of Learning, Not Trauma
A central theme of the press conference was the concern that schools are increasingly becoming spaces of criminalization rather than education. Advocates stressed that behavioral issues involving students should be addressed through counseling, restorative justice practices, and de-escalation strategies—particularly when minors are involved.

“Children deserve protection, not punishment,” Gerald Griggs stated. “Introducing Tasers and other weapons into school discipline is a dangerous path that puts students at risk.”

Standing With the Student and Family
The press conference concluded with a clear message of solidarity with the student and their family. Gerald Griggs and Harry Daniels reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the student’s rights are protected and that the family receives answers and justice.
The student’s mother closed with a call for compassion and accountability, urging school officials and law enforcement to remember that every child deserves dignity, safety, and respect.

Moving Forward
As this case continues to develop, Gerald Griggs remains committed to seeking justice, protecting student rights, and advocating for meaningful reforms that ensure schools are safe spaces for learning—not fear.

This incident is a reminder that silence is not an option when a child is harmed. Accountability must follow.