Despite being declared a closed case by Madison County District Attorney Rob Broussard, August Borden and his family are not giving up their fight for justice.
On August 15, Borden, a freshman at Deshler High School, suffered major head and face trauma at the hands of another student while walking to football practice. The DA ruled it the accidental result of two students' horseplaying, but the family, including his stepdad and mom, Drew and Kristen Van Devender, believes there's more to the case.
August Borden's father, Jason, said he was "shocked and appalled" that the DA did not press criminal charges against the other student who put his son in a bear hug, and that he would continue pursuing the case.
On Thursday, attorneys representing August Borden — Kristin K. Stamps and Shane Sears — issued a similar statement thanking supporters and vowing to continue to seek answers.
"August Borden's case has become one of great public interest, and the family wishes for the public to have a clear understanding of where things stand," the attorneys said. "First and foremost, the family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to everyone who has shown love, support, and solidarity during this incredibly difficult time. The messages, prayers, and continued advocacy from the community have meant more than words can express."
They continued, "While the family remains heartened by the outpouring of compassion, they also want it to be clear that what happened to August changed his life forever. They continue to seek truth, accountability, and transparency in the pursuit of justice for their son. The family's goal has always been — and will continue to be — to find answers. They are committed to ensuring that August's story is met with honesty and integrity at every stage of the process.
"They remain profoundly grateful for those who continue to support August's recovery and stand beside them through this ongoing journey. Please continue to keep August in your prayers as he works through a long and challenging road ahead."
Broussard said Thursday that he considered the case closed from a criminal standpoint, but he noted that the family could pursue the case civilly.
Tuscumbia City Schools said it would still be conducting an internal investigation via an outside legal counsel to determine if its procedures were followed correctly the day of the incident.
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