The recent incident at New Mexico State University, where the head coach of the men's basketball team was fired following a police report that detailed alleged sexual hazing by his team's players, highlights how a toxic culture can lead good people to do bad things. It's a stark and sobering reminder that someone's behavior can often be shaped by both their environment and peer pressure.

Hazing Killed the Season

The head coach of the men's basketball team at New Mexico State University, Greg Heiar, was fired in February 2023 following a police report that detailed alleged sexual hazing by his team's players. The redacted report indicated that the hazing ultimately led to the suspension of the school's basketball season.

The university's Chancellor, Dan Arvizu, described the incidents as part of a "culture of bad behavior" in the basketball program that included "egregious violations of our student code of conduct" and "other despicable acts." He also announced plans for an "independent" review of campus procedures. This comes after the university previously hired an external investigator following a shooting incident involving a men's basketball player and a University of New Mexico student in November, in which the NMSU player was also wounded. No criminal charges have been announced in connection with either the shooting or the report of hazing.

The Impact of Peer Pressure and the Need to Belong

The need to belong is a fundamental human desire, and that desire is especially strong when it comes to students on campus. Young people on campus, often vulnerable and on their own for the very first time, can succumb to powerful forces that can make them feel like they have to do things they wouldn't even dream of doing otherwise. The New Mexico State University basketball team incidents seem to be perfect examples of how peer pressure led to good people doing bad things.

Violations of School Codes of Conduct

The alleged hazing by the New Mexico State University basketball team is an extremely clear violation of the school's student code of conduct. School codes of conduct are put in place to promote a safe and respectful learning and living environment, keeping students safe from discrimination and behavior that includes physical, verbal, and sexual harassment. This behavior is completely unacceptable and goes against the core values of any educational institution. Schools are often swift to deliver sanctions against people who commit violations, with punishments ranging from suspension to expulsion.

Reach Out for Legal Help

If you're facing disciplinary action due to allegations of hazing or other code of conduct violations, you need to seek legal representation.

Attorney-Advisor Joseph D. Lento and his associates at the Lento Law Firm Team have extensive experience in defending students accused of academic disciplinary issues like code of conduct violations. They understand the complex nature of school disciplinary processes and can help protect your rights. They can assist in everything from investigations to hearings to appeals.

Reach out to the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686, or contact us online. Your future may depend on it.