Louisiana Law on Hazing

Louisiana has strong anti-hazing laws, including the Max Gruver Act, which makes hazing a felony. The law prohibits hazing regardless of whether the targeted person consented to it. Penalties include fines, imprisonment, and expulsion from educational institutions. 

Key aspects of Louisiana's anti-hazing laws:

Criminal Hazing:
Louisiana Revised Statutes 14:40.8 defines criminal hazing. 

Prohibition:
Hazing is prohibited at any educational institution supported by public funds. 

Definition of Hazing:
Hazing is defined as any act directed against a person that endangers their physical health or safety, causes severe emotional distress, or is associated with joining or maintaining membership in an organization. 

Consent is Not a Defense:
The law clarifies that the victim's consent is not a defense against hazing charges. 

Resources for Students:

Is My Friend Hazed? Common signs indicating a student may be experiencing hazing.

Hazing can range from mild to severe and may involve physical, emotional, or psychological harm. Here are common signs that may indicate your friend is being hazed:

Physical Signs such as: Unexplained injuries or bruises, exhaustion or fatigue not explained by normal college activities or sudden weight loss or gain.

Behavioral & Emotional Changes such as: Withdrawn or isolated behavior (avoiding friends or usual social circles), sudden mood swings, irritability, or signs of depression or reluctance to talk about their group, team, or activities.

Academic or Lifestyle Shifts such as: Drop in academic performance or missed classes, changes in routine or behavior (suddenly always busy at odd hours), or unusual secrecy about whereabouts or group involvement.

Social Media or Communication Clues such as: Vague or cryptic messages or posts about stress, pain, or group pressure, deleted or changed accounts, possibly to avoid detection, or reduced contact or delays in communication with family/friends.

Comments like: “I can’t talk about it.”- “It’s just part of the process.”- “It’ll be worth it after this week.”- “They’re just messing with us.”

Webpage Links:

1. Student Handbook: Add link
2. Code of Conduct: Code of Student Conduct
3. Title IX: Title IX Information

Dr. Alvina C. Thomas, Dean of Student Success Services &
Title IX Coordinator
318-345-9145
athomas@ladelta.edu