Punishment for hazing exposed
November 25, 2014
In schools all across the nation, hazing is a big concern. Hazing, by definition, is humiliating a person or group with dangerous rituals. In fact, OH has a law that addresses hazing.
Hazing is not just simply a harassment in school. In 44 states, hazing is a criminal offense, including OH.
“Hazing is charged as a fourth degree misdemeanor. Anyone found guilty of this offense may be sentenced to up to 30 days in jail and/or fined up to $250. This is in addition to any other charges that relate to the hazing and that may be filed as well,” a Haren Law blog post said.
Even if a student is not charged with the offense in court, the Ohio hazing law states that a student can legally sue another student for the abuse or destruction that was caused to them.
However hazing is a felony in many other states, different states tend to use different penalties when it happens.
“Maryland state Sen. Jamie Raskin will soon unveil legislation to increase the fine [for hazing] to $5,000,” Bloomberg News said.
Although, with the hazing law that is current in Maryland, a convicted person can spend up to six months in jail for hazing.
“In some ways, there is a culture of acceptance around hazing. It is an almost standard and expected practice for many college fraternities and sororities,” Harren Law said.