HARRISBURG, PA — In a somber conclusion to a high-profile case that has reverberated across the nation, Brendan Young, 28, and Daniel Casey, 27, were sentenced Tuesday for their roles in the tragic hazing incident that led to the death of Penn State sophomore Timothy Piazza. The sentencing took place in Centre County Court, marking the final chapter of a prolonged legal process that has heightened awareness around the dangers of hazing in collegiate environments.
Both Young and Casey, former leaders of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity, faced the court having previously pleaded guilty to 14 counts of hazing and one count of reckless endangerment. They were each handed a sentence of two to four months in prison with eligibility for work release, followed by a three-year probation period and mandated community service. This sentencing reflects the gravity of their involvement in the 2017 fraternity event where Piazza suffered fatal injuries after excessive alcohol consumption and subsequent falls.
Attorney General Michelle Henry, who has been a vocal advocate for justice in this case, expressed her condolences to the Piazza family. “Our thoughts are with the Piazza family and everyone affected by this tragedy,” she stated. “Nothing can undo the harm Tim suffered seven years ago — nothing can bring Tim back to his family and friends. With the sentences ordered today, the criminal process reached a conclusion.”
The case against Young and Casey was marked by vigorous legal proceedings. Both defendants entered open guilty pleas in July, allowing the judge to ascertain their sentences. The Office of the Attorney General, under Henry’s leadership, pursued charges they deemed fitting for the misconduct, though some were dismissed throughout the legal process. The office also sought to overturn the suppression of key evidence that could have supported the original charges.
The tragic death of Timothy Piazza has not only brought these legal actions to a head but has also led to legislative changes. The Piazza family’s efforts were pivotal in the enactment of the Timothy Piazza Anti–Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, which enforces stricter penalties, including felony charges, if hazing results in serious injury or death. Unfortunately, this statute was not in effect during the time of the 2017 incident and could not be applied retroactively to increase the severity of the penalties for Young and Casey.
The prosecution of the case was carried out by Chief Deputy Attorney General Brian Zarallo and Deputy Attorney General Julia van Leeuwen, who have worked diligently to bring about a sense of closure to this tragic case. As the legal proceedings draw to a close, the case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of hazing and the urgent need for vigilance and reform in college fraternities and other organizations nationwide.
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