Onondaga County District Attorney Bill Fitzpatrick recently appeared on “Fox and Friends,” discussing a troubling hazing incident involving the Westhill High School lacrosse team that has gained national attention. Fitzpatrick highlighted the potential severity of the situation, emphasizing that if law enforcement had arrived during the incident, it could have escalated into a dangerous scenario. Eleven players from the team turned themselves in to the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department following allegations that they kidnapped a younger teammate at gunpoint. This act of hazing reportedly included placing a pillowcase over the victim’s head, binding him, and putting him in the trunk of a vehicle. Fitzpatrick’s comments underscored the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences had the encounter escalated further.
The district attorney discussed the specific legal ramifications for the players involved. Four of the eleven suspects, who are aged 18, will face misdemeanor charges of unlawful imprisonment in local justice courts, while the remaining players, who are minors, will go through juvenile court. Fitzpatrick noted that the weapon allegedly used in the incident was likely a fake gun, as it had a bright red or orange tip, which might have mitigated the immediate threat posed during the hazing. The event has raised broader concerns about the culture of hazing and the risks tied to such actions among young athletes.
Fitzpatrick further clarified that despite the seriousness of the crime, none of the players would end up with criminal records if they complied with certain conditions set by the court. This was part of a deal proposed during a press conference, where Fitzpatrick stated they would only face misdemeanor charges provided they turned themselves in. If they had not done so, they would have faced felony kidnapping charges as adults. This approach aims to ensure accountability while allowing the young men to avoid lasting legal consequences, which Fitzpatrick considered reasonable given the “idiocy” of their actions.
Social media played a crucial role in the investigation, as Fitzpatrick revealed that some players had shared details of the incident online in an attempt to impress their peers. This posting caught the attention of local authorities, prompting them to act swiftly. Awareness of the incident through social media has not only enabled law enforcement to address the issue but has also sparked discussions about the oversight necessary in youth sports and the potential risks associated with hazing practices that may go unchecked.
In response to the incident, Westhill Central School District Superintendent Stephen Dunham issued a statement recognizing the seriousness of the situation. He confirmed that the district is cooperating fully with both the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Department. Dunham emphasized the school’s commitment to student safety and outlined that any behavior jeopardizing the wellbeing of students would be addressed promptly and in accordance with the school’s code of conduct. This kind of proactive stance indicates the district’s intention to tackle such issues directly and thoughtfully to uphold the values of their community.
Overall, the incident at Westhill High School serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of hazing and the responsibilities of schools and communities in addressing these issues. The collaboration between law enforcement and school officials illustrates a united front against such reckless behaviors among students. The district attorney’s handling of the case thus far reflects an understanding that while accountability is crucial, there should also be a focus on rehabilitation and learning from mistakes as the students navigate the consequences of their actions.
