Senator Arthenia L. Joyner, District 18 — Press Release

Senator Arthenia Joyner Calls On Governor To Withhold Rush To Judgment In FAMU Hazing Controversy

TAMPA - State Senator Arthenia Joyner (D-Tampa) on Friday called on Republican Governor Rick Scott to withhold judgment in Florida A&M University’s hazing controversy, and rescind his recommendation to suspend Dr. James Ammons, president of the historically black institution.

“As a state official and as a degree recipient from FAMU’s undergraduate and law school programs, I have great concerns over the governor’s haste to recommend suspending Dr. Ammons while simultaneously admitting he has no knowledge of any wrongdoing,” said Sen. Joyner. “It’s particularly galling that the governor justifies his action as a way to assure people the university is fully cooperating. This is the same Rick Scott who had no similar compunction to immediately step aside as CEO of HCA when the FBI launched its probe into what became the largest health care fraud case ever in this country’s history.”

Senator Joyner added that any action against officials and employees of the university should be withheld until the Florida Department of Law Enforcement has had time to complete a thorough investigation into the death of FAMU marching band drum major Robert Champion, and any financial irregularities currently under question.

“The governor’s knee-jerk reaction inflicts wide-ranging damage but brings us no closer to the truth as to what happened in Mr. Champion’s tragic death,” said Senator Joyner. “He needs to allow his agency to complete the investigation he requested before rendering his version of justice.”

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