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The Westhill Central School District in Syracuse is addressing a serious hazing incident involving 11 members of the Westhill High School boys' lacrosse team. Superintendent Steve Dunham announced that these students will face disciplinary actions according to the district's code of conduct after they were involved in a hazing incident that took place on April 24.
The incident involved older players taking younger teammates to a remote location, where they were threatened by individuals dressed in black, pretending to be armed kidnappers. One student was tied up and placed in a car trunk before being returned home. Although the students involved were ticketed for unlawful imprisonment, they will not have a criminal record due to their ages, as explained by CNN.
Superintendent Dunham emphasized the seriousness of the incident, stating that both criminal and code of conduct components are being addressed. He noted that the term "hazing" is used within the district's guidelines to classify such behavior, but stressed that it does not downplay the severity of the actions. The district plans to review and expand its policies on hazing and bullying, working with organizations like the National Federation of State High School Associations to provide additional training for coaches and students, as reported by LocalSYR.
Dunham expressed his heartbreak for the victims and their families, acknowledging the pain caused by the incident. He stated that the Westhill community is navigating a range of emotions and is committed to moving forward together.