Student turns down hazing plea bargain
Published: Dec. 17, 2007 at 5:24 PM
TRENTON, N.J., Dec. 17 (UPI) -- A fraternity president turned down a plea offer in Trenton, N.J., to a charge of fourth-degree hazing after the alcohol poisoning death of an 18-year-old.
Rider University student Michael Torney turned down a bargain that could have resulted simply in probation and community service for charges related to the death of Gary DeVercelly Jr., the Trenton Times reported Monday.
Superior Court Judge Mitchel Ostrer also ordered Torney, 21, to submit to alcohol and drug tests as part of his bail.
Two other students charged in the case have been admitted to the Pretrial Intervention Program, which is for to first-time, nonviolent offenders. Charges against two university administrators were dismissed.
Gary DeVercelly Sr. said, "It's been a terrible tragedy for our family. We feel (Torney) is partly responsible."
Torney has hired defense attorney Edward Bilinkas, who said he needed time to familiarize himself with the case.
"I know this kid," Bilinkas told the Times. "He's a good kid. We want to make sure all the T's are crossed and the I's are dotted."
Rider University student Michael Torney turned down a bargain that could have resulted simply in probation and community service for charges related to the death of Gary DeVercelly Jr., the Trenton Times reported Monday.
Superior Court Judge Mitchel Ostrer also ordered Torney, 21, to submit to alcohol and drug tests as part of his bail.
Two other students charged in the case have been admitted to the Pretrial Intervention Program, which is for to first-time, nonviolent offenders. Charges against two university administrators were dismissed.
Gary DeVercelly Sr. said, "It's been a terrible tragedy for our family. We feel (Torney) is partly responsible."
Torney has hired defense attorney Edward Bilinkas, who said he needed time to familiarize himself with the case.
"I know this kid," Bilinkas told the Times. "He's a good kid. We want to make sure all the T's are crossed and the I's are dotted."
© 2007 United Press International. All Rights Reserved.
This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
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