Syracuse, N.Y. — Eleven Westhill High School lacrosse players are facing legal repercussions after turning themselves in for allegedly participating in a shocking hazing incident that reportedly involved the unlawful imprisonment of younger teammates. According to Onondaga County officials, these students surrendered to authorities following a deadline set by the district attorney, who described the incident as going “way beyond hazing.”
The accused athletes face misdemeanor charges of unlawful imprisonment. The group includes both minors and at least one adult, with the underage players directed to family court, while the adult will face the standard arraignment process. The district attorney, William Fitzpatrick, warned that had the players failed to turn themselves in, they could be charged with more severe offenses, including second-degree kidnapping.
Details surrounding the incident are alarming. The district attorney revealed that the suspects misled younger players, suggesting they were headed to a local fast-food restaurant post-game. Instead, the group took the players to a secluded area of the county where alleged accomplices, disguised in dark clothing, emerged and pretended to kidnap a teammate. Reports indicate that these individuals brandished what appeared to be firearms and knives during the ordeal.
One victim reportedly was unable to escape and suffered a terrifying experience, being restrained and locked in the trunk of a vehicle. He was later released in another remote location, where he initially feared he would be abandoned. The severity of the incident has raised concerns among community members, with Fitzpatrick sharing that he viewed video footage which captured parts of the ordeal. He emphasized that the footage, which included laughter from some of the suspects, illustrated a troubling understanding of acceptable conduct among the players.
In light of these events, Westhill Central School District superintendent Stephen Dunham announced the cancellation of the remainder of the boys’ lacrosse season, stating the need to address the underlying culture within the program. He acknowledged that while most players may not have been involved or complicit, the incident necessitates a comprehensive reassessment of team dynamics.
The school district is conducting its own investigation into the matter, although specific details about potential disciplinary actions cannot be publicly disclosed due to privacy regulations. Dunham reiterated the district’s strict anti-hazing policy, denouncing such actions as harmful and inexcusable.
While the investigation is ongoing, officials have not clarified whether any weapons used during the incident were real. Fitzpatrick noted, however, that charges related to weapon possession would not be pursued in this case.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this unsettling incident, it shines a light on the critical issue of hazing in youth sports, prompting discussions on how to foster safe and respectful team environments for all participants.