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Westhill Lacrosse Players Face Deadline to Avoid Felony Kidnapping Charges

Prosecutors in Syracuse, New York, have given 11 students until Thursday to surrender for a staged abduction described as 'way beyond hazing.'

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Field stands are seen at Westhill High School in Syracuse, New York.
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The track and field at Westfield High School is seen in Syracuse, New York, on April 30, 2025.

Overview

  • The April 24 incident involved older Westhill High School lacrosse players staging a mock kidnapping of younger teammates in a wooded area.
  • At least five victims were blindfolded, tied up, and one was placed in a car trunk, fearing abandonment before being returned home.
  • Prosecutors recovered video evidence showing participants laughing during the staged abduction, which involved fake weapons.
  • Onondaga County DA William Fitzpatrick offered a 48-hour window for suspects to surrender on misdemeanor charges of unlawful imprisonment.
  • The school district has canceled the boys' lacrosse season, launched an internal investigation, and reaffirmed its strict anti-hazing policy.