GAINESVILLE, Fla. – As many as 10 people could face criminal charges in the hazing investigation involving the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity at the University of Florida.
Campus police have sent sworn complaints to the state attorney's office involving nine UF students and one alumnus.
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State Attorney Bill Cervone will now review the allegations and evidence to decide if he will pursue charges against the individuals.
DOCUMENT: UF letter to Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity
According to the University of Florida Police Department, five prospective members of Alpha Phi Alpha received injuries -- some serious -- after being repeatedly paddled and struck in the chest by members of the fraternity in a hazing ritual in late January. None required hospitalization.
Since the hazing allegations surfaced, UF has issued an interim suspension to the fraternity chapter.
"Someone who physically or otherwise abuses you is no friend and we are extremely disappointed with the alleged conduct of the 10 individuals charged with hazing," said Dave Kratzer, UF's interim vice president of student affairs. "We will not tolerate hazing or any behavior that threatens the health and safety of our students."
All of the suspects have been trespassed from UF. Two of the individuals working as employees of the university -- one student and the alumnus -- were terminated last week.
Hazing is prohibited by the UF regulations and state law. It is addressed through the disciplinary process and also may be addressed through criminal prosecution.
"We commend the injured students for their courage during this very difficult investigation," Kratzer said. "It is critical the university make every effort to stem any hazing before someone is irreparably harmed."
This case of hazing was reported Feb. 4 to university police, who said the hazing happened between Jan. 9 and that date.
The university encourages any student who is a victim of hazing, or who learns of any abusive or dangerous conduct toward others, to step forward. Reports can be made to the UFPD at 352-392-1111, the Office of the Dean of Students at 352-392-1261, or the Office of Student Activities and Involvement at 352-392-1671.