On Oct. 9, former Marching 100 percussionist Brian
Jones pled no contest to a third degree felony hazing charge in the homicide of
Champion. He will serve six months under “community control”
probation, another two years of less restrictive probation, and perform a total
of 200 hours of community service.
Lubert had the option to send Jones to prison for up to five
years, but said he decided against incarceration due to the defendant’s
minor role in the hazing crime. The fact that he accepted responsibility for
his actions, and inconclusive evidence concerning the role Jones played in the
hazing, also played a role in the judge's decision.
Jones told detectives that he was present during the hazing
of band member Lissette Sanchez on a Fabulous Coach Lines charter bus on Nov. 19 in Orlando, but that he left the vehicle before Champion’s
hazing took place. He originally pled not guilty to the third degree hazing
charges.
Another band member accused Jones of not only being on the
bus during Champion’s hazing, but physically restraining Champion during the
beating process.