Hazing

Hazing is an intolerable and prohibited practice in the state of Pennsylvania. It involves the initiation of new members into fraternities, sororities, clubs, and social groups, primarily comprising students and minors. Hazing can occur both on and off-campus, impacting educational institutions catering to students in grades seven through 12. It encompasses the coercion, instigation, or forcible participation of minors in activities that could jeopardize their emotional and physical well-being, potentially leading to severe consequences.

Individuals and organizations endorsing or facilitating hazing are held accountable. Whether you are a parent of a minor accused of hazing or an adult facing allegations of organizational or institutional hazing, we encourage you to seek the expertise of the Logue Law Group. Our highly skilled Butler PA criminal lawyer has extensive experience in developing effective legal strategies to protect your freedom and future.

Take the first step towards resolution by scheduling a complimentary initial consultation with our dependable Butler PA DUI attorney. Contact Logue Law Group online or at 844.PITT.DUI.

Pennsylvania Hazing Law

Following a hazing-related tragedy at Penn State in 2017, Pennsylvania introduced changes to its hazing law, imposing increased penalties.

The law explicitly defines hazing as coercing or forcing a student or minor to engage in the following behaviors:

• Violating state or federal law
• Consuming substances, such as food, liquids, alcohol, or drugs, that may cause emotional or physical harm
• Enduring any form of physical, mental, or sexual abuse
• Sustaining any other action likely to result in bodily injury

Examples of hazing encompass a range of activities, including:

• Compelling alcohol or drug consumption leading to intoxication
• Engaging in water intoxication
• Partial or total nudity
• Paddling, whipping, or other forms of physical assault
• Verbal abuse, including name-calling
• Sleep deprivation
• Wearing humiliating attire
• Performing degrading or meaningless tasks

It is crucial to acknowledge that hazing can manifest in varying degrees of severity, from subtle forms to more extreme instances of harassment or violence.

Hazing can result in a range of charges, depending on the severity of the offense:

• Summary Offense: This offense carries a fine as punishment.
• Misdemeanor of the Third Degree: If the hazing offense caused or posed a risk of bodily harm, it is punishable by jail time of six months to a year and a fine of up to $2,500.
• Third-Degree Felony: Aggravated hazing resulting in serious bodily harm or death is punishable by up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.

Organizational Hazing Charges: These charges can lead to fines of up to $5,000 per proven instance of hazing. If the hazing was aggravated, the fines can be increased to $15,000.

Schedule a Free Consultation

We understand the seriousness of these potential penalties and the need for a strong legal defense. Butler PA Criminal Attorney Sean Logue is a highly skilled and dedicated professional who will vigorously protect your rights and fight for a favorable outcome. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 844.PITT.DUI or reaching out to us online. Take the first step to work on your case with confidence.