Kentucky woman charged over football field attack

Kayla Barrett, 36, is facing a felony charge in Kentucky after police say she strangled a high school football player during a game. The 36-year-old woman from Laurel County was arrested last Tuesday by the Kentucky State Police. She has since been released on bond.

The incident occurred on Oct. 30 at Wayne County High School. The school was playing North Laurel High School. A Wayne County player ran with the ball. A tackle ended out of bounds and caused a group of players to gather near the sideline.

Barrett was standing near the sideline when the scuffle started. Monticello Police say she moved toward the group of players. Monticello Assistant Chief Joshua Smith described the sequence of events. He said, “From what I understand, she ran toward the action, and somewhere in that scuffle, she grabbed one of the Wayne County athletes by the back of the neck and began choking him and shaking him.”

Police stated that the player had difficulty breathing after the attack. He was taken to a hospital for treatment. Medical staff released him after his visit. Police believe the player will recover fully. Barrett left the stadium immediately after the incident. Smith noted that she drove away quickly. An officer was able to identify her shortly after she departed.

Smith said the police department prioritizes the safety of student athletes. He expressed hope that Barrett will not be allowed back at sporting events. The charge is for second-degree strangulation. The case is being handled by the Monticello Police Department.