In Syracuse, New York, a high school lacrosse team is embroiled in controversy as 11 members face charges related to a dangerous stunt that prosecutors insist went beyond typical hazing behavior. The players from Westhill High School allegedly staged a mock abduction involving younger teammates, an act described as reckless by the Onondaga District Attorney’s Office. These individuals have now surrendered to authorities and are expected to appear in court.
District Attorney William Fitzpatrick, who made it clear that voluntary compliance would result in lesser charges, mentioned that the charges involve misdemeanor unlawful imprisonment. He warned that those who did not come forward by the deadline risked facing more severe felony kidnapping charges. According to Fitzpatrick, the incident unfolded under the guise of a friendly gathering to watch a game and grab a meal, but the scenario took a drastic turn.
The orchestrated event saw one player bound, blindfolded, and placed in a car trunk. Fitzpatrick criticized the foolishness of the act, emphasizing the seriousness of the abduction plan. The incident further escalated as younger team members were driven to a secluded spot, where other participants waited in the woods, equipped with a knife and what appeared to be a gun. This was the setting for the staged kidnapping.
Fitzpatrick revealed that five victims were targeted in the scheme, though some managed to escape the prank. The player who couldn’t flee endured the ordeal of having his hands tied and a hood placed over his head, leading him to believe he would be abandoned. Despite the student returning home unharmed physically, Fitzpatrick asserted that the emotional impact could be long-lasting.
“This isn’t just a harmless prank,” Fitzpatrick stated, pointing out the potential danger if law enforcement had encountered the scene. He underscored the significant risk involved with the fake abduction, especially given the presence of what appeared to be weapons. Evidence of the incident was caught on video, leading to the identification and subsequent charges against 11 individuals, some of whom are 18 years old.
When queried about whether the culprits were all members of the lacrosse team, Fitzpatrick acknowledged uncertainty but indicated it seemed likely. In response to the events, reports suggest that the school district’s superintendent opted to cancel the remaining season of the varsity lacrosse team.
The Westhill School District Superintendent, Steve Dunham, has yet to comment directly due to ongoing investigations. However, in a previous statement, he emphasized the district’s commitment to the safety and well-being of all students, noting that any behavior threatening these priorities would be addressed according to the school’s Code of Conduct.