Fraternity Brothers Face Charges for Skit Resulting in Pledge’s Burns
Four members of a San Diego State fraternity are facing felony charges after a disturbing incident that left one of their pledges hospitalized with third-degree burns. The accused, Caden Cooper, 22; Lucas Cowling, 20; Christopher Serrano, 20; and Lars Larsen, 19, have been charged by the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office for their involvement in a skit gone terribly wrong.
The Troubled History of Greek Life at SDSU
This incident is just the latest in a series of troubling events that have plagued the Greek life community at SDSU. In 2020, a 19-year-old pledge tragically lost his life due to alcohol-related hazing. The following year, another student sued the school after being left in a coma from excessive drinking during pledging. These incidents have painted a grim picture of the fraternity culture at the university, with dangerous hazing practices and alcohol-fueled events becoming all too common.
The Skit Gone Wrong
The incident in question occurred at a Kappa Phi Kappa Psi party in February 2024. During the event, Lars Larsen, a pledge, was set on fire as part of a skit planned by the fraternity members. The reckless act resulted in Larsen suffering severe burns to 16% of his body, leading to weeks of hospitalization for treatment of his injuries. The accused students attempted to cover up the incident by lying to authorities, deleting evidence, and pressuring other fraternity members to remain silent.
Legal Ramifications and Consequences
The four fraternity brothers have pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them, which include recklessly causing a fire with great bodily injury, conspiracy to commit injurious acts, and violating local laws related to underage drinking. If convicted, they could face sentences ranging from probation to over seven years in jail. Despite being released from jail, they are prohibited from attending fraternity events or participating in recruitment activities.
In recent years, SDSU has taken disciplinary action against multiple fraternities for violating school policies, including alcohol distribution and hazing. The troubling patterns of misconduct within the Greek life community have raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of students on campus.
As we reflect on this disturbing incident, it serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with hazing and reckless behavior within university fraternities. It is imperative that steps are taken to address these issues and ensure the safety of all students involved in Greek life activities. Let us strive to create a campus culture that prioritizes respect, responsibility, and the well-being of every individual.