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When someone is under investigation or charged, the legal process can feel overwhelming and uncertain. That’s why having skilled legal representation from the earliest stages matters—it can make the difference between prolonged courtroom battles and a resolution that allows you to move forward with your life.
Recently, in Lake Charles, LA, charges related to a hazing complaint involving two fraternity members at McNeese State University were rejected by the Calcasieu Parish District Attorney’s office after careful review of the available evidence and complaints. Our firm represented the individuals involved, and the decision brought the criminal matter to a close.
In October 2025, two complaints were filed alleging hazing against members of the Kappa Sigma fraternity. According to the reports, videos were submitted to university officials as part of those complaints.
Initially, McNeese Police issued summonses for misdemeanor hazing to two fraternity members just one day after the complaints were filed.
A turning point in the process occurred when a judge, Judge Bobby Holmes, examined the videos that formed the basis of the criminal investigation. In a Nov. 17 judgment, the judge determined the videos presented did not depict hazing, and he quashed a search warrant of the students’ phones that had been issued as part of evidence collection in the case.
This judicial review was significant: it directly affected the strength of the prosecutor’s case and played a key role in how the matter proceeded.
After reviewing the situation and the available evidence, the district attorney’s office chose to reject the charges against the two students. This means that prosecutors decided not to pursue formal criminal prosecution, and the case will not move forward in court as a criminal matter.
Our clients have been fully cleared of any wrongdoing and are grateful to put this matter behind them. Throughout the legal proceedings, the students remained cooperative and respectful.
The rejection of charges allows these individuals to move forward with their lives without a criminal case pending, which can make an enormous difference for their personal, educational, and professional future.
While the criminal charges were rejected, the university’s internal review of the complaints led to disciplinary measures for the fraternity chapter under the institution’s own conduct standards. Those included a limited suspension of chapter activities and required training and community service—actions taken through university policy rather than the criminal justice system.
Cases like this underscore the importance of securing experienced legal counsel as early as possible. From the moment allegations arise, having knowledgeable defense attorneys involved can shape how a case is evaluated, how evidence is handled, and whether charges move forward at all.
In this matter, defense attorneys Adam Johnson and Andrew Leonards represented our clients throughout the process, advocating for their rights from the outset and ensuring the facts were carefully reviewed. Their experience and attention to detail played a critical role in navigating the investigation and reaching an outcome that brought the criminal case to a close.
If you’re facing a legal situation and aren’t sure where to turn, speaking with an attorney early can make a meaningful difference in the trajectory of your case.