Cheltenham High School football coaches charged in hazing scandal

Four Cheltenham High School football coaches – head coach Terance Tolbert, associate head coach Darian “DJ” McFadden, assistant coach Benjamin Johnson III and volunteer coach Ralph Burnley – were indicted on child endangerment and conspiracy charges after a grand‑jury investigation uncovered two locker‑room hazing incidents in 2025. Six student players were also charged: two 18‑year‑olds, Isaiah Simpson (assault and conspiracy) and Josiah Peeler (false swearing), plus four juveniles charged as minors.

The investigation began after an anonymous tip reported a 15‑year‑old player assaulted in the locker room. The school suspended the football program and later cancelled the season. District Attorney Kevin Steele called the assaults “crimes, not typical horseplay,” and the district superintendent affirmed support for the victim and the community.