FAMU Denies Responsibility for Hazing Death

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Florida A&M University has asked a judge to drop the wrongful death suit filed by the parents of Robert Champion, the drum major who died in a hazing incident last November. The university asserts that Champion was responsible for his own involvement in the events, having signed a "Hazing and Harassment Agreement" with the school saying he would not participate in such activities. Moreover, he was aware of the potential dangers of hazing rituals, had witnessed others go through the experience, and had the opportunity to opt out. The documents go so far as to allege Champion himself was guilty of criminal activity for his participation.

According to the court documents filed by FAMU, "It is undisputed that Mr. Champion knew that existence of the danger (hazing) of which Plaintiff now complains, he realized and appreciated the possibility of injuries as a result of such danger, and notwithstanding the opportunity to avoid the danger simply by not showing up at the designated place and time, he deliberately exposed himself to the danger," the motion said.

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