Cheltenham High hazing case triggers charges against coaches and players

Montgomery County prosecutors charged four Cheltenham High School football coaches and six players after a six‑month grand jury investigation uncovered two hazing incidents in 2025, including assault and the use of a broomstick. The head coach Terance Tolbert, associate head coach Darian McFadden, assistant coach Benjamin Johnson III, and volunteer coach Ralph Burnley face child endangerment and conspiracy charges; two 18‑year‑old players, Isaiah Simpson (assault and conspiracy) and Josiah Peeler (false swearing), are charged as adults, while four younger players are charged as juveniles. Cellphone and text evidence reportedly showed attempts to cover up the assaults. The district canceled the season; a Title IX investigation remains ongoing, and the grand jury urged changes to hazing laws to recognize hazing as child abuse.