FSU president credits school policy, state law for hazing crackdown

TALLAHASSEE — Two years after the hazing death of a fraternity pledge, Florida State University President John Thrasher says a “major culture shift is underway” because of school policies and a new state anti-hazing law.

“Our efforts are working. Students and parents are more educated about what constitutes hazing and are more likely to report incidents … and police and prosecutors now have stronger laws to enforce,” Thrasher told the Capital Tiger Bay Club in Tallahassee on Thursday.

The tougher anti-hazing law was approved by Florida lawmakers this spring and went into effect in October.

FSU officials and the parents of Andrew Coffey, a Pi Kappa Phi pledge from Lighthouse Point who was found dead after an alcohol-filled party in November 2017, played a key role in passing the legislation (SB 1080) known as “Andrew’s Law.”

Under the law, prosecutors can pursue third-degree felony charges against people who plan or recruit others to participate in hazing incidents that result in permanent or serious injuries or death. People can receive immunity if they call 911 or campus security to report the need for medical assistance during hazing.

Thrasher, a former state House speaker and senator, said Andrew’s Law has “definitely made a big difference” on campus. But he could not say with certainty if the new law has been applied to any specific incidents at the university.

“I’d have to ask the state attorney,” he told reporters. “I think he has a couple of those incidents under investigation, so I am not privy to talk about it.”

What he appeared to know for sure is that the culture is changing on campus.

After’s Coffey’s death, the university temporarily suspended all Greek life and considered reforms to combat dangerous drinking.