Jacksonville, Fla.-- The family of a FAMU student who died after suspected hazing has hired a local attorney.
It's the sound Dr. Julian White has been in charge of for more than a decade. It's the dream job he always wanted. He was directing the Marching 100.
This week after the death of drum major Robert Champion, Dr. White was told by Florida A & M University, "his time is up." Police think hazing contributed to Champion's death. Champion's family has now hired local attorney, Chris Chestnut. He says he plans to sue the university. The University president saying this week that hazing has grown out of control in the Marching 100 and that's why Dr. White had to go.
Action News has a copy of the letter Dr. White's attorney sent to the University President soon after the firing. It says days after Champion's death, Dr. White was given an ultimatum, resign or be terminated.
It also claims, over the years, Dr. White had a zero tolerance for hazing. The letter says Dr. White made students take anti-hazing workshops and even sign a letter say they'll be terminated if hazing occurs. It also says Dr. White went to the university with concerns about student hazing, saying, "The University could've taken swifter action after being told about the incidents..." but goes on to say those concerns were ignored.
Action News did try calling the University for comment on the letter and the family planning to sue. Our calls Friday were not returned.
