Five Arrested After Fights Break Out at Tennessee High School Graduation

Authorities have made at least five arrests during a high school graduation ceremony in rural Tennessee. The ceremony ended in chaos after multiple fights broke out among adults in the crowd, leading to several arrests.

According to the Lauderdale County Sheriff's Office (LCSO), five people were arrested. The arrests include four adults and one juvenile, who are currently in custody in connection with the May 15 incident, when multiple fights broke out during the graduation ceremony at Ripley High School in rural Tennessee.

Za'Darius Smith, Jordan Bonds, and Devon Tae Robertson were arrested on charges of inciting a riot and disorderly conduct. Stephanie Scott was charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The juvenile arrested was identified as K. M., who is also facing charges of inciting a riot and disorderly conduct, along with criminal trespassing.

Investigators have not yet revealed the details of what might have sparked the violence in the crowd. Authorities are still searching for nine additional people allegedly involved in the brawl.

Sheriff Sherrod Brain Kelley of the Lauderdale County Sheriff's Office announced on May 18 the names of those arrested in connection with the disturbance during the graduation ceremony.

"We have identified several of the individuals involved in the disorder that disrupted Ripley High School's graduation ceremony," Kelley said in a statement. "Warren's and juvenile petitions have been signed,d and the arrest process is now underway. At this time, five individuals are in custody, and nine arrests are underway," Kelley added.

"To those who have already been identified, your day of accountability has arrived," the sheriff said.

"To those who think you have escaped detection, understand this: you are only delaying the inevitable," Kelley said. "I have the rest of my career to track down every single person responsible, and I assure you that we will not stop until each of you is held fully accountable for your actions," Kelley added.

Kelley also warned parents and guardians to cooperate with the investigation.

"Parents and guardians should also take notice. You are responsible for the conduct of your children. If your child was involved in the disgraceful incident, I fully expect you to bring them forward and cooperate with this investigation," Kelley said. "You can run for now, but sooner or later, we will be knocking on your door," he added.

The sheriff's office said investigators are reviewing security camera footage and other evidence as they work to identify everyone involved.

In response to the violence and “ongoing concerns surrounding recent events,” officers from the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office imposed a countywide curfew following the disturbance.

“Tonight’s high school graduation should have been a time of celebration and pride for our students, families, and community,” Lauderdale County Mayor Morris Gaines said in a statement on May 15.

"Unfortunately, due to a major disturbance and ongoing concerns surrounding recent events, additional precautions are being taken to help maintain public safety across Lauderdale County. Let's come together as a community, support one another, and work towards sharing our schools and public events remain safe places for everyone," Gaines added.

The Lauderdale County School District said it is cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation continues.