usu σν president details events leading to death

A few weeks ago, we reported on a hazing death at Utah State University. Since then, the Salt Lake Tribune has engaged in a whirlwind of journalistic prolificacy, issuing story after story (after story) following the aftermath. Now it relates a detailed story from Cody Littlewood, president of the Sigma Nu chapter, explaining the events of the night on which Michael Starks perished.

In summary: Starks and another Sigma Nu pledge were given the honor of being "kidnapped" by the sisters of the Chi Omega sorority—a privilege since the pledge class had been starved of female company for a week. Although Littlewood said he made it clear no alcohol was to be involved in the abduction, his words were not heeded. Chi Omega sister Whitney Miller admits she ordered the abductees to disrobe and paint their bodies USU blue, in the course of which she provided them with a liter of cheap vodka, "which they consumed willingly," according to police statements.

By the time the kidnapped pledges were returned to Sigma Nu by the rest of their pledge class, both were unruly and intoxicated. Starks was evidently still conscious and talkative, but as precaution a certified nursing assistant examined Starks, and another brother called Poison Control, which gave him only the typical advice: make sure he lays on his side and drinks lots of water, and watch him carefully. (This is the Poison Control version of "take two aspirin and call me in the morning.") Littlewood followed the advice, checking on the sleeping Starks every 30-45 minutes. When he missed the sound of snoring on one of his checks, he roused the nursing assistant to perform CPR and dialed 911, but it was too late.

The account leaves little doubt that the events of the night involved highly questionable activities, whatever admirable attempts the fraternity made later to ensure Starks' safety. "We believe the elements of hazing have not been met. Assuming everything you say is true, there is no crime," says Littlewood's attorney. That remains to be seen.

Salt Lake Tribune