https://www.hanknuwer.com/books/
Click here to go to the magazine. Moderator Hank Nuwer
Article: Prosecutors Taking Tougher Stance in Fraternity Hazing Deaths
Before Reading
Read through this list of annual deaths in the United States because of hazing, compiled by the journalism professor and anti-hazing advocate Hank Nuwer. Pick out a few stories on the list, which starts in 1838 and goes through the present day.
What are some of the common stories? What stories stand out on the list, and why? What are your impressions after reading through the list and seeing the photos?
Questions for Comprehension and Analysis
1. What happened to a 19-year-old sophomore at Penn State University during a fraternity hazing? What did prosecutors do to 18 fellow students that demonstrates the harder line prosecutors have begun to take against death from initiation rituals?
2. What did David LaBahn, president of the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, have to say about the case? What have universities and colleges done to take a tougher stance against hazing after reports of sexual assault and binge drinking?
News from the PSU Collegian
Beta Theta Pi corporation was charged with one count of Involuntary Manslaughter, 50 counts of Hazing and 48 counts of Furnishing Alcohol to Minors and Unlawful Acts Relative to Liquor. No bail was set against the fraternity. Involuntary Manslaughter carries a maximum penalty of five years.
Michael Angelo Schiavone, the Vice president of Risk Management was charged with 14 counts of recklessly endangering another person and 14 counts of hazing. He also received 12 counts of furnishing alcohol to minors and 12 counts of unlawful acts relative to liquor.
Michael Angelo Schiavone, charged with 14 counts of reckless endangerment, is shielded away from the camera by his mother.
Lars Kenyon received 14 counts of recklessly endangering another person and 14 counts of hazing. He also received 12 counts of furnishing alcohol to minors and 12 counts of unlawful acts relative to liquor.
Kordel Davis, who was dismissed by fellow brothers after telling them to call 911 the night of Piazza’s fall, appeared on Good Morning America Monday recounting the night’s events.
Kenyon texted Davis that “No one likes him,” according to Parks Miller, who asked that behavior end now.
Lars Kenyon, who received 14 counts of recklessly endangering another person, 14 counts of hazing among other charges, leaves the courthouse
Ryan McCann, Lucas Rockwell, Braxton Becker, Ryan Foster and Fraternity Vice President Ed Gilmartin, all received individual tampering with evidence charges.
Each received charges for cleaning up after the Feb. 2 party, deleting text messages or attempting to dress Piazza.
Tampering with evidence carries a two year maximum penalty.
Joseph Ems received one count of recklessly endangering another person.
His lawyer, William J. Brennan: “He’s presumed innocent.”
Joseph Ems received a reckless engagement charge for allegedly striking Piazza in the abdomen, possibly injuring his spleen further, according to court documents.