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UPDATE: CCSD police defend use of pepper spray at high school football game

Posted at 10:50 AM, Sep 18, 2017
and last updated 2017-09-18 21:39:43-04

UPDATE SEPT. 18: CCSD police defended their use of pepper spray at the game, saying someone was being stomped on during the fight and they had to act quickly.

Capt. Ken Young says because of budget cuts, they haven't been able to staff as many officers at high school football games as they would like.

He says although tensions flared being Canyon Springs and Basic during the time, there was no indication beforehand that a rivalry would be cause for concern.

Watch Young answer questions below.

ORIGINAL STORY

Police used pepper sprayed a crowd during a fight after a high school football game on Friday.

The brawl happened after the game between Canyon Springs High School and Basic High School.

Referees assessed at last 35 penalties. Many were for personal fouls or unsportsmanlike conduct after the play, and four Canyon Springs players were ejected.

A spokesperson for Clark County School District police says the officer acted appropriately.

13 Action News is working to learn more details about this story. Check back for updates.