HARRISBURG, PA – Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry announced today that four former Mount Carmel High School football players have been sentenced for their involvement in a series of hazing incidents that took place during the 2020 football season.
Reed Witkoski, 20, and Damon Dowkus, 21, both pleaded no contest to charges of Hazing, Simple Assault, and Recklessly Endangering Another Person, admitting their involvement in the incidents. Tyler Owens, 21, pleaded guilty to charges of Hazing and Criminal Conspiracy, while Michael Balichik, 21, will enter the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program on charges of Hazing and Criminal Conspiracy.
The hazing incidents involved various forms of physical and psychological abuse towards younger team members, causing concern among the school community and local authorities. Witkoski and Dowkus were sentenced to one year of probation and a $50 fine each, while Owens received nine months of probation and a $50 fine.
Balichik’s participation in the ARD program will require him to complete community service and attend anti-hazing educational sessions.