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At least 11 players from the Westhill High School boys lacrosse team in Syracuse are facing charges following a hazing incident. The Onondaga County District Attorney, Bill Fitzpatrick, announced that the players have been ordered to surrender to authorities within 48 hours. The incident, which occurred last Thursday (April 24), involved older team members taking younger players to a remote location where they were ambushed by individuals dressed in black, pretending to be kidnappers.
According to Fitzpatrick, the hazing incident began as a supposed team outing to another school's lacrosse game followed by dinner. However, during the ride home, the driver pretended to be lost and led the group to a secluded area. There, the younger players were confronted by people emerging from the woods with what appeared to be a gun and a knife. One victim was blindfolded, tied up, and placed in the trunk of a car. Fortunately, no one was physically harmed, and the victim was eventually returned home.
Fitzpatrick stated, "This goes way beyond hazing," emphasizing the seriousness of the incident. The DA's office has offered leniency to those who cooperate, promising only misdemeanor charges of unlawful imprisonment. However, those who fail to comply could face adult charges of kidnapping.
In response to the incident, Westhill High School Superintendent Steve Dunham announced the cancellation of the remainder of the lacrosse season. He emphasized the need to address the culture within the program and stated that the majority of the team was not involved in the hazing. Dunham urged the community to allow the district to handle the situation internally and provide space for those affected.
The investigation, conducted by the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office, is ongoing, and the school district is working closely with law enforcement to determine the appropriate course of action.