Archived News

Charges brought in FAMU hazing incident

The Florida State Attorney’s Office has charged 13 individuals in the hazing death of DeKalb-native Robert Champion.

Champion died last year as from what officials termed a homicide that was “the result of hemorrhagic shock due to a soft tissue hemorrhage, incurred by blunt force trauma sustained during a hazing incident.”

Of the 13 individuals charged, 11 are charged with felony hazing resulting in death, and the rest are charged with a misdemeanor of hazing.

So far, eight of the individuals charged with felony hazing have turned themselves in to various law enforcement agencies throughout Florida.

Police investigate hotel shooting

DeKalb County Police are investigating a shooting that happened May 3 at the Budget Inn at 2859 Panola Road.

Police spokeswoman Mekka Parish said police received a call at approximately 5:15 a.m. Officials said a woman staying at the hotel invited a man to her room.

According to the victim, once there the man attempted to rob her. The suspect later pulled out a gun and the victim was struck in the thigh. Parish said the suspect has not yet been located.

Officers fired upon during domestic dispute

DeKalb County Police officers responded to a domestic call May 3 at 3535 Lawrenceville Highway.

Police spokeswoman Mekka Parish said as the officers returned to their vehicles, shots were fired from an adjacent building in their direction.

Parish said a helicopter, K-9 unit and backup responded to the area but no suspects were located. However, Parish said two juveniles, who were seen running from the area during the time of the incident, were arrested. She said she is unsure of the charges against them.

No officers were injured during the incident, which is still under investigation.