How to Fight Hazing Charges in Fort Myers
Although many see “hazing” as a necessary part of college culture, Florida views this as a criminal offense. Specifically, hazing can be a third-degree felony in the Sunshine State with up to five years in prison. What can you do if you face hazing charges in Fort Myers? Can a criminal defense attorney help?
Three Arrested in Florida After Hazing Incident Ends With Kidney Failure
On July 27th, NBC News reported that police had arrested three individuals in Florida for their alleged role in a college hazing incident. Officials say that the incident spiraled out of control, leaving several victims with various injuries. These injuries allegedly occurred due to prolonged beatings with canes and paddles.
One victim reportedly required extensive skin grafts to repair blackened and necrotic tissue. This individual also suffered kidney failure that could have been fatal, according to medical staff. One of the most interesting details of this hazing incident is the fact that one of the defendants is a Secret Service agent.
Officials did not reveal why this agent had such a close relationship with a college fraternity. The 29-year-old has since been placed on administrative leave by the Secret Service. The fraternity in question reportedly referred to the agent as the “dean of pledges.” These defendants also face various violent crime charges, such as assault and attempted manslaughter.
How to Fight Hazing Charges in Florida
One of the most important things to remember about hazing charges in Florida is that nonconsent is not a necessary element. In other words, you can face charges even if the “pledge” agreed to be hazed by you. Do not attempt to explain the situation to police officers, and remain silent until you have a chance to speak with an attorney.
Defense strategies for hazing charges often revolve around medical evidence. If you can prove that the injuries in question were not serious, you may be able to avoid the worst penalties. If officers violated your constitutional rights or the prosecution made serious errors, you might also avoid serious penalties.
At the end of the day, a jury may have to decide whether you “went too far.” With effective legal representation, you can convince the jury that the hazing incident really wasn’t that bad, and that it was all a bit of innocent fun. The fact that one oversensitive pledge overreacted should not lead to life-changing criminal consequences.
Can a Criminal Defense Attorney in Fort Myers Help Me?
If you face misdemeanor or felony hazing charges in Fort Myers, it makes sense to speak with an experienced Fort Myers criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. With the right defense strategy, you can push back against these charges and ensure positive outcomes. Contact The Foley & Wilson Law Firm today to learn more about your next steps.
Sources:
nbcnews.com/news/us-news/secret-service-agent-charged-fatal-hazing-canes-paddles-led-kidney-fai-rcna589409
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=1000-1099/1006/Sections/1006.63.html
thenationaldesk.com/news/americas-news-now/south-florida-secret-service-employee-among-3-arrested-in-alleged-violent-hazing-case-violent-hazing-hazing-case-hazing-investigation-arrest-administrative-leave-miami-dade-sweetwater-miami-dade-sheriff-rosie-cordero-stutz-katherine-fernandez-ru