VSU students arrests for hazing

PETERSBURG, VA (WWBT) - Students at Virginia State University were arrested and charged for allegedly hazing another student.

Petersburg Police said the investigation included multiple victims. Police were made aware of the situation based on Crime Solvers tips received late November 2012. Those arrested include Virginia State University students Brandon Randleman and Leroy Amankrah, both 22-years-old and 23-year-old Christopher Barnes-Prevot. William Nicholson, 28-years-old, is not a student. All are members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Petersburg Police investigated the case because the hazing occurred within the City of Petersburg.

On campus, students didn't like hearing about the alleged hazing involving the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.

"It's kind of crazy. I don't know why these types of things go on, we're here to get an education. I know people want to join organizations and things of that nature but if you have to go through, like get beat or go through other things, it shouldn't even happen that way," said VSU student, Marcus Thornton.

Police say the crime happened off campus in Petersburg last year between August 31st and November 25th.

"We consider hazing a very serious offense we consider it an offense from a personal standpoint and from an organizational standpoint," said Tom Reed of University Relations at VSU.

Current members of the Greek system are required to receive hours of anti-hazing education per semester.

Exactly how it went down, police nor the school would say - but now, all four men of Alpha Phi Alpha are each charged with one count of hazing - a misdemeanor.

"We work very, very diligently to eliminate the culture of hazing on our campus that it has no place in today's higher education society and at VSU," said Reed.