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Candidates discuss changing Virginia hazing laws

Posted at 12:50 AM, May 03, 2013
and last updated 2013-05-03 06:32:34-04

PETERSBURG, Va. (WTVR) - One of the men police say is connected to the apparent drowning of two Virginia State University students during an apparent hazing ritual will go on trial in June.

As Mark Holmberg reported last week, critics say Virginia has one of the weakest hazing laws in the country.

CBS 6 reached out to the two women running for delegate in the 63rd district, which includes VSU, to ask them if they think the law should be changed.

Democratic candidate Evandra Thompson said if she's elected she will work to strengthen the hazing law. Thompson said the punishment should be equal whether the victim is injured or killed.

“I would strengthen the law so that if you're put in jeopardy or intimidated that's also considered a crime," she said.

Thompson said she would also vote to change the requirement that the university president must report the crime to police in order for prosecutors to pursue charges.

CBS 6 also contacted Delegate Rosalyn Dance and we're still waiting to arrange an interview.