from Debbie Smith, activist

Good Morning Everyone

As you may recall last month I sent out a Matt update concerning a recent hazing in Chico.  It is very disheartening to see that some have not learned from Matt’s death or from those that lost their lives to hazing before him.  As much as we had hoped to never have to use Matt’s Law, I am pleased to see that it is going to be enforced in hopes that it will help dissuade hazing in the future.

What I find very  discouraging after all the hard work we did and how well known Matt’s story is in Butte County that this incident took place just blocks away from where Matt was killed.  On a positive note, it is my understanding that some of the fraternity members refused to participate in these rituals because they knew hazing was wrong.

So, it appears Matt’s story and all of our hard work is starting to pay off and by these charges being pressed I believe it will continue.  Maybe next time those that know it’s wrong, rather than just walk away, will actually put a stop to it.

Below is a press release from DA Ramsey’s office that is going out today.

PRESS RELEASE
July 9, 2007
(For Immediate Release)

THREE TO BE CHARGED IN HAZING INCIDENT

Butte County District Attorney Mike Ramsey announced today that three members of the now-banned Beta Theta Pi fraternity will be charged with misdemeanor violations of “Matt’s Law, for hazing activity that occurred in April of this year.

Christopher Bizot, 23, and Michael Murphy, 22, were the president and vice-president of the fraternity at the time of the incidents, and Chico State students. The third person, Matthew Krupp, 23, a Butte College student, was the fraternity’s “Ritualist”. Each is alleged to have had an active role in hazing pledges to the fraternity in a manner which was “likely to cause serious bodily injury”to the pledges. Bizot is additionally charged with interfering with an investigation into the hazing allegations by California State University Chico Police.

“It is surprising and saddening that this type of activity continues to go on in spite of past tragedies,” said Ramsey. “People need to know that we take these offenses very seriously and will hold those responsible to account,” he concluded.

The anti-hazing legislation, Penal Code section 245.6, was named “Matt’s Law” in honor of Chico State student Matthew Carrington, who died as a result of hazing in 2005. The new case may be the first prosecution brought under the law.

A court date for the first appearance of the defendants has not yet been set.

“Hug your children and tell them you love them everyday.”

Love,
Debbie, MM
www.wemissyoumatt.com