June 28--Prosecutors yesterday dropped most of the criminal charges several Boston University students were facing for allegedly hazing five frat-house pledges by duct-taping them together half-naked and slathering their bodies with everything from honey to coffee grinds.
Assistant Suffolk District Attorney Luke Goldworm told Brighton District Court Judge Patricia E. Bernstein that more charges may be dismissed as the investigation continues.
"Going to trial would have been difficult given the position of the victims in this case," said district attorney spokesman Jake Wark.
"Proceeding with civil charges was undoubtedly the best way to obtain some accountability."
Police said they found the alleged victims, all 19, duct-taped together April 9 in the basement of 24 Ashford St. in Allston clad only in their underwear with "horrified and fearful looks on their faces" and "red welts and markings all over their backs" from having hot sauce poured on them.
One of the pledges, speaking on condition his name not be published, said, "The whole situation was unfortunate so I'm glad it's worked out for everyone. Hopefully, everyone can move on from this."
Only five of the seven Alpha Epsilon Pi brothers scheduled for arraignment yesterday showed up. Jonathan Toobi, 22, is on an internship in Israel, his attorney said. Kyle Shevrin, 21, of California notified the court by letter he is trying to raise money to return to Massachusetts.
Jesse Kay, 20, pleaded not guilty to hazing, failure to report hazing and assault and battery. He was released on personal recognizance.
Justin Katz, 22, saw four of five counts dismissed and was fined $200.
Lawrence Rosenblum, 19, and Alexander Nisenzon, 22, had their arraignments postponed while their cases are re-evaluated.
Robert Rappa, 22, had his charges amended and was fined $400.
Copyright 2012 - Boston Herald
