Columbia, MO: A former member of a University of Missouri fraternity has pleaded guilty to his involvement in a tragic incident that resulted in the blindness and severe brain damage of another student.
A resident of Manchester, Missouri, named Ryan P. Delanty has admitted his guilt in Boone County for providing alcohol to a minor and engaging in misdemeanor hazing, as reported by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. As part of a plea agreement, prosecutors will suggest a six-month jail sentence, to be followed by six months of house arrest. The sentencing date has been set for May 24.
A tragic incident at a Phi Gamma Delta fraternity event in October 2021 resulted in freshman Danny Santulli experiencing severe physical impairments, rendering him unable to see, walk, or speak.
“Ryan understands the gravity of the situation, and he’s pleased to reach a resolution that avoided a trial,” said Delanty’s lawyer, Stephanie Fortus.
Santulli was participating in fraternity pledging in October when he was discovered unresponsive as a result of alcohol poisoning. Officials reported that his blood alcohol content was 0.486, which exceeded the legal limit by six times.
The fraternity chapter has been closed. A civil lawsuit has been filed by Santulli’s relatives against the fraternity and 23 members. The settlement was reached in 2022 for an undisclosed sum.
In April, Thomas Shultz, a fraternity member from Chesterfield, Missouri, pleaded guilty to supplying liquor to a minor. The individual received a 30-day jail sentence, along with two years of probation. Additionally, they were required to fulfill community service obligations and successfully complete a drug and alcohol education program.
