The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has concluded its investigation into the finances of the Florida A&M University’s marching band. The investigation was launched following the hazing death of school band drum major Robert Champion last November. The probe found several instances of missing money and duplicate payments to band members and others who traveled with the Marching 100.
Elementary school students and some alumni were among those who received unauthorized payments when the band traveled during the Fall of 2011. There were also instances where some band members received duplicate payments, Similar issues were reported for trips taken during 2009 and 2010.
Early on in the investigation it was revealed that about 100 band members were not FAMU students but were allowed to travel and receive payments last fall.
The band’s longtime director, Julian White, was also cited in the report for failing to timely report the theft of tens of thousands of dollars in missing band dues several years ago. FAMU law enforcement officials were unable to determine who took the money and no administrative review was ever done.
In a statement issued through his attorney, White said he offered to personally pay for the missing funds but that the FAMU Police department closed the case and didn’t make that request.
FAMU officials say they are reviewing FDLE’s findings.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
