Ringleader in FAMU hazing case gets 6 plus years in prison

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — A former Florida A&M University band member was sentenced today to more than six years in prison for manslaughter and felony hazing in the death of a drum major, making him the first to receive prison time in the case.

Dante Martin received 77 months, but prosecutors wanted nine years in the beating death of 26-year-old Robert Champion during a brutal hazing ritual in November 2011.

Judge Renee Roche said she chose to deviate from the recommended sentencing guideline for Martin because she believed it had been demonstrated that Champion had been a "willing participant" in the ritual.

About a dozen character witnesses testified on Martin's behalf. Judge Roche said the testimony and other letters of support demonstrated that Martin was "remarkable young man" and that she wanted to give a chance to have a life after prison.

Martin, who was shaking at times throughout the proceeding, also addressed Champion's parents. He expressed remorse for his actions.

"This is something I will live with for the rest of my life," Martin said.