Kentucky Football Game Dispute: Mother Charged with Strangulation

Kayla Barrett, a 36-year-old woman from Laurel County, stands accused of strangulating a high school football player during a game in Wayne County, Kentucky. Police say the incident occurred on October 30 during a matchup between Wayne County High School and North Laurel High School. The charge, second-degree strangulation, is a felony.

The physical altercation began when a Wayne County player ran with the ball and was tackled out of bounds. The tackle triggered a melee involving players from both teams. Barrett, who was positioned near the sideline, entered the cluster of athletes. According to Monticello Assistant Chief Joshua Smith, she ran toward the action and grabbed one of the Wayne County athletes by the back of the neck. Smith stated that she began choking the player and shaking him during the scuffle.

The player reported difficulty breathing as a result of the attack. He was transported to a hospital for treatment and subsequently released. Police indicated they believe he will make a full recovery. Barrett departed the stadium shortly after the incident, according to law enforcement. Smith noted that she left the area quickly and drove away before officers identified her.

Kentucky State Police arrested Barrett last Tuesday. She has since been released on bond. Smith expressed the department's desire to ensure student-athletes remain safe in such environments. He stated, “Hopefully, she’s not allowed back at a sporting event.”