CLARIFICATION: There is no such thing as 'consent' to hazing - an assault investigation will ensue
By Trail Champion
When following up the RCMP press release regarding ‘Stag Night’, the Castlegar Source/Trail Champion editor asked about the legalities should a young person (particularly a minor) agree to be subjected to same.
Even without the issue of age of majority, RCMP Sgt. Mike Wicentowich’s response, sent to all local media, was unequivocal:
“Kyra Hoggan contacted me and asked me to expand on the hazing,” he said. “One cannot willingly consent to being assaulted with a weapon. If the RCMP received a complaint from a student who was paddled, we will have to conduct a criminal investigation into Assault with a Weapon contrary to Section 267 of the Criminal Code.”
Previous coverage:
On May 28, the Trail and Greater District Detachment RCMP were made aware that an unsanctioned Grade 11 and 12 event known as ‘Stag Night’ will be taking place tonight in the Pend’Oreille near the Seven Mile Dam, in Trail, according to RCMP Sgt. Mike Wicentowich.
“During this event, there will be the consumption of alcohol by minors and ‘hazing’ of the younger people attending this party,” he said. “The ‘hazing’ consists of paddling younger students (Grade 11 and below) with wooden paddles.
“A complaint about that sort of behaviour likely means an assault charge – there’s no exception because it’s a hazing event – that’s probably going to make it worse under the eyes of the law,” he added. “If someone lays a complaint, we will pursue assault charges.”
He said police will be setting up an inspection check point on Seven Mile Dam Road with the intention of inspecting all vehicles attending this bush party under the authority of the Liquor Licencing and Control Act.
“The RCMP will be seizing alcohol in possession of minors and that (are believed intended to) be consumed by minors. This may include seizing excess liquor from adults attending the party if it is believed that it will be consumed by youth.
“Any wooden paddles may be seized as a weapon due to their purpose to assault other students,” Wicentowich said, adding this is something police are taking very, very seriously.
“I’m concerned. We’re combining youth, alcohol, drugs and assault. I don’t see how that ends well. If someone comes in the next day and lays a complaint, and you get charged, that’s going to ruin your post-Grade 12 life.
“We would recommend youth cease and desist this ritual in this day and age, because it could potentially ruin your future.”
He said the RCMP want to ensure the event is a safe event and good time for all in attendance.
“The RCMP would like to remind those of the recent tragedy early this year in this area in which two youth died in a motor vehicle accident on Seven Mile Dam Road. The RCMP ask everyone to use good judgment during this event. The BC Liquor Inspector has been contacted and may be in attendance to this event.”
The RCMP can be contacted for assistance at 250-364-2566 or, 911 in case of an emergency.
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