Lambda Phi Epsilon Leaders Sentenced to Two Years of Probation

Three of the ringleaders behind the now-defunct UT fraternity Lambda Phi Epsilon pleaded no contest to misdemeanor hazing charges today, nearly two years after freshman pledge Phanta "Jack" Phoummarath died of acute alcohol poisoning.

Fraternity president Benny Chan, pledge captain Andrew Nguyen, and "Hellmaster" Kamal Pulukuri got off with little more than a slap on the wrists — according to the Statesman, each will serve two years of probation, "pay a $1,000 fine, perform 100 hours of community service, take an alcohol awareness class, issue an apology to Phoummarath's family and give a full description of the "hell week" activities of the fall 2005 semester and the party that followed." The three were indicted on multiple counts of furnishing alcohol to minors and/or hazing by a Travis County grand jury last December.

An autopsy revealed that Phoummarath had a blood alcohol level of 0.41 percent — over four times the legal driving limit — when he died. He was 18 at the time.

After today's sentencing, defense lawyer Bill White described the incident as a tragic accident, stating, "Nobody ever meant for that to happen at all ... you cannot legislate against youthful indiscretion."

Related:
Phanta "Jack" Phoummarath on CompelledToAct.com
UT Frat Kicks Ass, Gets In Trouble

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