Hazing

Hazing is a serious and illegal practice in Pennsylvania. It involves the initiation of new members into fraternities, sororities, clubs, and social groups, often affecting students and minors. This activity can happen on or off campus, and it impacts schools serving students from seventh grade through 12th grade. At its core, hazing forces, pressures, or tricks minors into taking part in activities that may put their emotional and physical health at risk—sometimes with devastating results.

Both individuals and organizations can be held responsible for hazing, especially when a group knowingly supports or allows it to take place. If you are a parent of a minor accused of hazing, or an adult facing allegations of organizational or institutional hazing, it’s important to get experienced legal help. The Logue Law Group is here to assist. As a trusted lawyer, attorney Sean Logue has extensive experience building strong legal strategies designed to protect your freedom and your future.

Take the first step toward resolving your case by scheduling a free initial consultation with Logue Law Group. You can reach us online or call 412.387.6901 to speak with a dedicated New Castle DUI attorney about your situation.

Pennsylvania Hazing Law

After a tragic hazing-related death at Penn State in 2017, Pennsylvania updated its hazing law and increased the penalties for those found guilty.

Under the law, hazing is clearly defined as forcing or pressuring a student or minor to do any of the following:

• Break a state or federal law
• Consume food, liquids, alcohol, or drugs that could cause emotional or physical harm
• Endure any form of physical, mental, or sexual abuse
• Take part in any other action likely to cause bodily injury

There are many different examples of hazing. A skilled New Castle criminal lawyer can explain how these situations may apply to your case. Common examples include:

• Forced alcohol or drug use leading to intoxication
• Water intoxication
• Partial or full nudity
• Paddling, whipping, or other physical assault
• Verbal abuse, such as name-calling
• Sleep deprivation
• Being forced to wear humiliating clothing
• Completing degrading or pointless tasks

It’s important to understand that hazing can range widely in severity—from subtle pressure to extreme harassment or violence.

Depending on how serious the offense is, hazing can lead to several different charges. If you’re unsure where your case stands, a knowledgeable New Castle DUI attorney can review the details with you. The possible charges include:

• Summary offense: This charge is punishable by a fine.
• Misdemeanor of the third degree: If the hazing caused or risked bodily harm, the penalty is six months to a year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
• Third-degree felony: Aggravated hazing that results in serious bodily harm or death is punishable by up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.

Organizations can also face charges. Organizational hazing can result in fines of up to $5,000 for each proven instance of hazing. If the hazing was aggravated, those fines can rise to $15,000.

Schedule a Free Consultation

We understand how serious these penalties are and how important it is to have a strong defense on your side. Attorney Sean Logue is a highly skilled and committed New Castle criminal lawyer who will fiercely protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome. When you need a reliable attorney in Lawrence County, the Logue Law Group is ready to help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

Call 412.387.6901 or reach out to us online to start working on your case with us.