Student pleads innocent to alcohol charge

STAFF REPORT

GIRARD — A Girard High School senior who can’t participate in school events, including commencement, has pleaded innocent to providing alcohol to those under age at a party.

David B. West III, 18, of East Second Street, entered the plea Tuesday before municipal Magistrate Mark Finamore. He was released on a $1,000 signature bond. No trial date was set.

West, who is attending classes, was banned from extracurricular activities because of an April 13 party at his house. West has claimed that the party was impromptu and other students and adults brought their own beer and intoxicants.

The student had filed a lawsuit against the school district in Trumbull County Common Pleas Court seeking a restraining order so he would be able to participate in school events.

The complaint was withdrawn Monday. West will not be allowed to attend commencement and senior breakfast. He will be permitted to attend a senior award event.

West’s attorney, Dennis DiMartino, has suggested that his client was charged for providing the alcohol because he filed the complaint against the school.