WARREN, Mich. – Charges against all seven students accused in a Warren De La Salle Collegiate School football hazing investigation have been dropped, according to Michael Wendling, the St. Clair County Prosecutor.
Wendling told Local 4 that all seven cases have been dismissed. He said the dismissal was granted after conditions had been met including an anti-bullying program, apology letters to victims and graduation.
The last two students requested a jury trial, but because of COVID-19, the prosecutor’s office said they don’t feel they could have a jury trial in a reasonable amount of time. Wendling said enough time has passed and the situation has resolved itself through their conduct on bond and changes at the school.
The team forfeited its Michigan high school playoff game last year due to the allegations that surfaced in October and an investigation was launched. Charges were brought up against 7 students and the school’s president was fired.
Investigators said the incident happened Oct. 19 at a team dinner. Warren Police Commissioner Bill Dwyer said an investigation revealed the students allegedly held a victim to the floor of the locker room and used a broom during the incident.
The school released the following statement regarding the incident:
De La Salle learned today that the prosecutor’s office has discontinued the charges against the former students who were alleged to have engaged in bullying behavior.
This has been a challenging time for our school community and our thoughts and prayers continue for all the students and De La Salle families affected.
Moving forward, De La Salle remains committed to the success of its students and its entire community consistent with its La Sallian roots in faith, morality, and integrity.
The students and alumni of De La Salle continue to make a positive difference both locally and globally. The De La Salle leadership and staff have been and remain steadfast in fulfilling our mission and living out our motto,"Builders of Boys Makers of Men."
Coverage timeline
- Nov. 1, 2019: Warren police begin to investigate hazing allegations
- Nov. 5, 2019: Investigation into hazing incident intensifies
- Nov. 8, 2019: Officials announce 3 teens could face charges
- Nov. 8, 2019: Hazing victim refuses to be interviewed
- Nov. 20, 2019: St. Clair County prosecutor appointed to case
- Dec. 17, 2019: Parents protest to have school president fired
- Jan. 10, 2020: Students return to class after hazing accusations
- Jan. 28, 2020: Prosecutors blast De La Salle for handling of investigation
- Jan. 29, 2020: New victim comes forward
- Jan. 29, 2020: Victim pledges to speak to police
- Jan. 30, 2020: Second accuser comes forward
- Feb. 20, 2020: 7 people expected to face charges, Warren police say
- Feb. 21, 2020: Internal report details alleged hazing ritual
- Feb. 24, 2020: Four players arraigned
- Feb. 25, 2020: Fifth player arraigned
- Feb. 28, 2020: Parents of 3 players charged in case speak to Local 4
- March 2, 2020: Dan Rohn hired as new head football coach