FAMU dismisses alleged “Clone” hazers

FAMU has expelled four students who are charged with Marching 100 members who attempted to join the unauthorized “Clones” group associated with the clarinet section.

Denise Bailey, Brandon Benson, Hakeem Birch and Anthony Mingo were all booked last Thursday and taken to the Leon County Jail. Officers released them after they all posted bond.

An arrest report states that pledges were slapped, punched, and paddled during a hazing process at Benson and Birch’s residence. The alleged incident is not connected to the Nov. 19 homicide of drum major Robert D. Champion.

Under university rules, the four dismissed students may appeal their expulsions to a judicial committee of the Division of Student Affairs.

“We encourage anyone who has been a victim of hazing to come forward. We will promptly and thoroughly investigate every complaint and seek prosecution for all cases to the fullest extent of the law,” Sharon P. Saunders, FAMU's chief communications officer, said in a statement.