Man facing assault charges after Jordan-Matthews principal knocked down trying to break up fight at basketball game

The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office has issued a criminal summons for Jamari Amir Jones after a fight during the Jordan-Matthews/Cummings varsity basketball game on Friday.

Jones, 18, is facing charges of assault on a school employee and disorderly conduct. The Chatham County School District confirmed Jones is a student at Cummings High School.

Deputies said an altercation started during the game that involved a group of Cummings fans. While attempting to restore order, Jordan-Matthews Principal April Burko stepped in and was knocked to the ground by Jones, investigators said.

The rest of the game was canceled after the fight.

The woman who took video of the fight, Ashley Pierce, said she believes the charges aren't warranted.

Pierce said the fight stemmed from fans being kicked out of the game, and Jones defending his mother.

"The guy is talking to the mother, yelling at her, and then the son jumps in," Pierce said. "He moves his mother out of the way. He jumps in and says 'what's going on?' and then the whole brawl just escalated from there."

Pierce said she was shocked by the response.

"I feel like they overreacted," she said.

"Training your staff to identify problems and get out in front of them before they speed out of control," Hammes emphasized. "It's prevent, prevent, prevent. And I think that's the best solution to this."

"Our priority is the safety of everyone involved, and we will take necessary actions to ensure those responsible are held accountable," Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson said. "Principal April Burko demonstrated notable courage in attempting to diffuse a volatile situation. Her commitment to safety is commendable, and we wish her a swift recovery."

Chatham County Schools Superintendent Anthony D. Jackson said the district is committed to ensuring that schools are safe for students, staff and those who visit and attend school functions.

"We will not tolerate disruptive or unacceptable behavior by any person attending school sponsored events," Jackson said. "We will work with local law enforcement officials to hold any person who disrupts a school activity or event accountable for their behavior, and we will assist with ensuring that they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

"I want to thank Mrs. Burko and her administrative team for going above and beyond the duty to ensure a safe environment and experience for all in attendance at the game on Friday night."

The investigation is ongoing. More charges are possible.