South Carolina's military college The Citadel is investigating pictures posted on social media this week of cadets dressed in all white with pillowcases over their heads, images similar to garb worn by the Ku Klux Klan.
A statement by the college president called the photographs "offensive" and "disturbing," and said the college has begun proceedings to suspend the eight students involved.
The young woman who posted the images on Facebook was apparently "threatened, harassed and offered money from numerous Citadel Cadets to take (the photos) offline in order to not 'ruin their lives.'"
The photos were posted on Facebook as well as Snapchat this week.
As many as 13 cadets may be involved. At least eight cadets were suspended.
On Thursday, the president of the military college, retired Air Force Lt. Gen. John W. Rosa, released the following statement about the incident:
“A social media posting, which I find offensive and disturbing, was brought to my attention this morning. It shows an upper class cadet in front of seven cadets with pillowcases over their heads. In accordance with college policy, we immediately began suspension proceedings for those cadets known to be involved, and we are continuing to investigate this incident. Preliminary reports are cadets were singing Christmas carols as part of a “Ghosts of Christmas Past” skit. These images are not consistent with our core values of honor, duty and respect. We will provide more information upon completion of the investigation.”
A source told Channel 9's partners at WCIV that the photo was taken in one of the barracks on campus, and that the ritual could be considered a form of hazing.
