Two former Penn State students have been sentenced to prison time for their role in the 2017 hazing death of fellow student Timothy Piazza.
Authorities say Brendan Young and Daniel Casey appeared in Centre County court Tuesday where they were sentenced to serve two to four months in prison, followed by three years of probation.
Officials note that both defendants are eligible for work release and will be required to complete community service.
In July, both men pleaded guilty to14 counts of hazing and one count of reckless endangerment in Piazza’s hazing death.
Investigators say Piazza died after consuming 18 alcoholic drinks at a Beta Theta Pi fraternity pledge initiation event in February of 2017.
Authorities say Piazza was among a group of 14 pledges that took part in a drinking “obstacle course” as part of the fraternity’s initiation event.
“Investigators say Piazza later endured a series of falls due to his high level of intoxication.
Our thoughts are with the Piazza family and everyone affected by this tragedy, Nothing can undo the harm Tim suffered seven years ago nothing can bring Tim back to his family and friends. With the sentences ordered today, the criminal process reached a conclusion.”
The criminal case against Young and Casey has been an ongoing legal battle for several years.
They are also the subject of a federal civil lawsuit, filed by Piazza’s parents, who have been instrumental in helping to change hazing laws in the state of Pennsylvania, and beyond.
