Teen Apologizes For Beating Student At Edmond High School

Jennifer Pierce, News 9

EDMOND, Oklahoma -- A teen accused of beating up a classmate at Edmond Memorial High School is now apologizing for the incident.

Shakil Fields showed up to court Thursday morning with a hand written letter for the victim. In it Fields apologizes for his actions that left 15-year-old Blake Sanchez badly injured.

Fields is facing an assault and battery charge. He is accused of beating up 15-year-old Blake Sanchez in the bathroom of Edmond Memorial High School.

"While the young man was hurt very seriously, my client reacted to the use of the n word. And probably overreacted to that and that is what has caused the situation," said attorney David Slaine.

His attorney said Fields takes responsibility for his actions and wrote a letter of apology. He said he is sorry for hurting Sanchez and for putting his family through so much heartache.

"In that letter, I think he is very sincere. He says that he is sorry for what's happened, he wish he could take it back," Slaine said.

But there is no turning back. The victim's mother said this is the first time Fields has shown remorse for the beating. She is glad he wrote the letter, but added it won't change what happened.

"My client has been suspended from school. He's not allowed to go to school there anymore. And we are in the process of trying to get him in school so he can graduate," said Slaine.

Fields' attorney is trying to keep him from doing jail time. He said probation would be appropriate and some anger management therapy.

Blake's mother said he has a severe brain injury. The 15-year-old has headaches everyday and is now dealing with cognitive problems because of the beating.

The District Attorney will deliver the letter to Blake and his family.

More: Racial Slur Prompts Alleged Assault At Edmond High School