A football game between 8-year-olds descended into a brawl, and now police are investigating whether adults were betting on the kids, sparking the brawl
Over the weekend in Winter Haven, Florida, two teams of 8-year-olds met for a football game. However, a massive brawl broke out when one of the adults attacked an opposing coach, according to Fox 13.
Video released by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office showed kids and adults running around in the middle of the field during the brawl. One person was on the ground as the crowd formed, and some threw punches.
Kids in football gear walked around as parents either joined in or tried to separate groups fighting.
Now, sheriff’s officials are investigating whether betting played a role.
The fight eventually stopped when police showed up, but one person told authorities that parents were gambling on the game before the scrum.
"If you're at these youth sporting events, and you're gambling on these teams, we're going to go undercover and look for that conduct, and we'll arrest you quick. That's totally inappropriate on every level," Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said.
The sheriff seemed at a loss for words over the allegation, telling WFLA: “Who would think that we would have to have undercover investigations at children’s sporting events because they’re gambling? Are you kidding me?”
Investigators admitted they have no video evidence to prove the claim.
So far, no one has been arrested in the case, and police have not determined who started the fight.
Police will try to identify the people involved, according to Fox 13. The suspects could face misdemeanor charges of disorderly conduct or affray.
There could also be additional charges if police determine betting was part of the game.
Sheriff’s deputies will also be at future football games to make sure there is no more violence.
