COLUMBIA, Mo. – It has been nearly three years since a Mizzou freshman fought for his life in the ICU after being hazed at a fraternity event. Today, the victim’s “pledge dad” received a six-month jail sentence.
Ryan Delanty was the “pledge dad” of Danny Santulli in the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity, also known as FIJI, at the University of Missouri. On October 19, 2021, Santulli was coerced into drinking a liter of vodka during a “Pledge Dad Reveal Night” event with the fraternity.
His blood alcohol level reached .486%, which is almost six times the legal limit in Missouri. He was later found in distress on the couch, but no one called 911. The incident left Santulli unable to walk, talk, or see.
Delanty was sentenced to six months in jail and an additional six months under house arrest after pleading guilty earlier this month to hazing and providing alcohol to a minor.
Danny’s mother, Mary Pat, fought back tears as she shared with the courtroom how she had to quit her job to become Danny’s full-time caregiver.
“Although the most rewarding job I’ve ever had, it’s not one I ever imagined I would be doing,” she said. “It’s a job that involves numerous doctor appointments, communication with doctors, and monitoring medications.”
One by one, each member of Danny’s family read statements, expressing to Delanty how their lives were forever altered.
“Do I believe Ryan Delanty wanted Danny handicapped for life? No, I don’t. Do I believe Ryan intended to cause serious bodily harm to Danny? Yes, I do. And he did so by forcing him to drink until he passed out,” declared Danny’s father, Tom.
Delanty’s lawyer, Stephanie Howlett, addressed the courtroom by saying he is remorseful and takes responsibility for this tragedy.
“You must know that Mr. Delanty will live with this for the rest of his life, and there won’t be a wedding, event, or joyous occasion that won’t be marred by this night in October,” she stated.
Delanty will serve six months in the Boone County Jail before completing another six months under house arrest.
Five other fraternity brothers have pleaded guilty in this case. Four others have pending cases, but the Santulli family has their sights set on this particular fraternity brother since he was accountable for him that night in 2021.
