Nov 21, 2008 11:25 am US/Eastern
7 Fraternity Members Burned In Alleged NEC Hazing
HENNIKER, N.H. (AP) ―
-
-
New England College in Henniker, N.H.
NEC
Seven members of a New England College fraternity received burn marks about 7 inches long during a recent hazing incident, according to police who may bring felony charges as early as next week.
All activities by the
Sigma Alpha Beta have been suspended since the incident about two weeks ago. Police said the burn marks, which were in a straight line on the upper left side of the students' chests, were similar to branding marks on an animal.
"It isn't like just a red mark," said police Chief Tim Russell. "It's significant enough to have penetrated the skin in most of them."
Russell said three students suspected of inflicting the burns could be charged with second-degree assault. The seven victims also could be charged with misdemeanors for participating in a hazing ceremony.
None of the students involved has been disciplined by the school, but spokeswoman Kathleen Williams said the possibility of suspension or expulsion remains. She said school officials briefed incoming students twice this semester on the dangers and consequences of fraternity hazing.
In a separate case, members of a former University of New Hampshire fraternity pleaded not guilty Thursday to hazing and holding an underage drinking party.
Phi Mu Delta's national council revoked its charter at UNH after a party last month resulted in several pledges being treated for excessive drinking.
(© 2009 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
Click to enlarge
Stumble It!
