What is Hazing?

Hazing is generally defined as any action or situation that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, admission into, or affiliation with any organization connected to Marshall B. Ketchum University.  MBKU recognizes the potential for physical, emotional and psychological harm and has a zero-tolerance stance on hazing.

California Law (California Penal Code §245.6) outlines California’s law against hazing. This law makes it illegal to engage in any activities that have the potential to cause bodily injury to a current or prospective member of an organization. The result of bodily injury is not required for an act to be considered hazing; it is the likelihood of bodily injury that classifies an act as hazing. 

According to this law, hazing that does not result in bodily injury is considered a misdemeanor and is punishable by:

• fine of up to $5,000 and/or
• Up to one (1) year in county jail

Hazing that does result in bodily injury or death can be considered a felony and is punishable by:

• Up to three (3) years in California state prison

California’s Good Samaritan Policy (Health and Safety Code – HSC Division 2.5. Emergency Medical Services (1797 – 1863) Chapter 9. Liability Limitation (1799.100 – 1799.115) 1799.102

The Good Samaritan Policy states that any person who in good faith calls for emergency medical care to a scene of an emergency will not be liable for any civil damages resulting from any act or omission. The intent of these policies is to empower bystanders to interfere and call for medical attention, when necessary, without fear of liability or legal punishment.

How to Report Hazing at MBKU:

Anyone with questions or information about a possible hazing incident at MBKU has the responsibility to report it to Campus Safety at 714.992.7892 or call 911 if you witness behavior that is clearly reckless, disoriented, dangerous, or threatening to self or others. In addition, students may also use use the Report a Concern form (students will need to be logged into the my.ketchum.edu portal). 

Students and/or organizations engaging in activities that are considered hazing as defined by California law may also be reported to the Fullerton Police Department.

MBKU will investigate every complaint of suspected hazing. The investigation responsibilities will be conducted by University Student Affairs and will coordinate with Campus Safety.

Students who engage in hazing face severe consequences. These consequences include:

1. Academic penalties: Suspension or expulsion from MBKU.
2. Legal ramifications: Fines up to $5000 and up to 1 year jail and serious bodily injury or death is punishably by up to 3 years in California state prison.
3. Civil liability: Participants in hazing may face civil lawsuits.