‘Disgrace to our community’: 4 arrested for allegedly encouraging fight between middle school students

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC/Gray News) - Four people were arrested Thursday after police in Alabama say they allegedly encouraged a fight between middle school students.

According to Birmingham police, officers were called to the Tom Brown Housing Community on Thursday for report of a fight involving students from Hays Middle School.

While investigating, police say they learned that several adults may have encouraged the fight between the students.

Police say officers from a specialized units arrested 27-year-old Jasmine Heidelberg, 30-year-old Tiara Williams, 31-year-old Khadijah Weaver and 32-year-old Dianna Young.

All have been charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor, police say. Tiara Williams was also charged with child endangerment.

Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett released a statement Thursday night, saying “this kind of parental neglect is a disgrace to our community and to society as a whole.”

Pickett added:

“I have two words- Parental Accountability…..

“…..Earlier today, a fight took place in the Tom Brown Community involving several children. In response, BPD took swift action by arresting the parents of those involved. This kind of parental neglect is a disgrace to our community and to society as a whole. As adults, we have a responsibility to serve as role models—providing the proper guidance, support, and good example for our children to follow.

“While BPD is committed to helping parents who are struggling with troubled children, let me be clear: we have zero tolerance for parents who encourage, promote, or facilitate violence among our youth. These swift arrests were made to send a clear message to the few parents who choose to act irresponsibly.”

All four suspects were taken to the Birmingham City Jail.