FAMU Hazing Death: First Prison Sentence Handed Down in the Wake of Robert Champion Homicide

For the first time, a former Florida A&M University marching band member has been sentenced to prison time in relation to the hazing death of Robert Champion.

According to the Associated Press, Judge Marc Lubet sentenced Jessie Baskin, 22, Friday in Orlando, Fla. to 51 weeks in county jail, five years of probation and 300 community service hours.

"I've sentenced a hundred people to life in prison. This is one of the hardest sentences that I've ever had to deal with," said during the three-hour hearing. "No matter what I do, I can't bring Robert Champion back."

On Nov. 19, 2011, Champion was put through a ritual that any new member of the FAMU "Marching 100" has to go through. Champion had to get from one end of the band's bus to the other while enduring merciless beating, kicking and assault with several instruments. Champion died from injuries sustained that day and his death was later ruled a homicide.

Since, 15 former members have been charged with manslaughter and hazing, but all have been sentenced to some combination of probation and community service. Caleb Jackson, 25, pled no contest to manslaughter, but has yet to be sentenced.

The AP reported Baskin was emotional throughout his hearing including tears and some involuntary shaking. His parents testified and his lawyer submitted letters asking for leniency.

Just like at previous sentencing hearings and other court proceedings, Champion's parents, Robert Sr. and Pam, testified.

"You did wrong," said Pam Champion, "you must pay the consequences for what you did."

Lubet said he believed Baskin was truly remorseful, but he also wanted to let everyone know that "hazing will not be tolerated." Before the sentence was handed down, Baskin was allowed to make his own statement, an emotional apology to Robert Sr. and Pam.

"I apologize that this happened. I apologize for how this has affected you," Baskin said on the stand through a fit of crying. "I'm not over it. It has affected me too. Robert was a good man and we know that... We did not intend for this to happen."