SU investigating injuries

• By JORDAN BLUM
• Advocate Capitol News Bureau
• Published: Dec 2, 2008 - Page: 1B - UPDATED: 12:40 a.m.

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Southern University is investigating the injuries of two marching band members hurt prior to Saturday’s Bayou Classic in New Orleans.

But the university stopped short of confirming whether the injuries were hazing related, Southern spokesman Ed Pratt said.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with these families and for the speedy recovery of our students,” Pratt said in a prepared statement, elaborating only to say the injuries occurred off campus.

Pratt refused to provide any other details, including the identities and conditions of the two marching band members.

The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office also is investigating after taking over the case late Monday afternoon, spokeswoman Kellie Engels said. She said details were unavailable because of the office’s late involvement.

Pratt said Southern Chancellor Kofi Lomotey would not comment. Also, Lawrence Jackson, Southern band director, did not return two phone calls and an e-mail message Monday.

Southern Student Government Association President Jamal Taylor declined comment.

Also, Southern Board of Supervisors Chairman Myron Lawson refused to address details of the incident. When asked about
physical or mental abuse as part of initiation into a college organization, Lawson said hazing “is not to be tolerated.”

At Southern, first-year members of the marching band — the Human Jukebox — are referred to as “crabs.” The Bayou Classic traditionally represents the time when new band members move out of their so-called crustacean status.

In 2005, four band members were arrested for allegedly robbing and beating a former band member. University officials confirmed other allegations of hazing at the time as well.

In 2001, the Southern band was placed on probation for alleged hazing that reportedly involved a freshman band member being beaten on the back with drumsticks and forced to do excessive exercise. Two band members were arrested.

In 1995, six Southern students were expelled for beating three freshmen band members during what was described as an initiation period.

When asked whether Southern’s band has a history of initiations going overboard, longtime former band director Isaac Greggs declined comment Monday.