A judge closed the courtroom Thursday as four Westhill High School lacrosse players were arraigned for the abduction and hazing of a younger teammate, according to syracuse.com. All four, age 18 or older, face misdemeanor charges of unlawful imprisonment.
Authorities say the teens lured younger players to a remote spot, where one was tied up, blindfolded, and placed in a car trunk. Though traumatized, the victim was not physically harmed. The judge cited fairness in closing the court, as seven younger co-defendants will be handled privately in Family Court.
All 11 players accepted a deal sparing them from felony charges and a criminal record. The team’s season was canceled, and school officials have disciplined the students.
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