FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — A former Northern Arizona University fraternity leader was sentenced Wednesday to two months in jail and three years of supervised probation for his involvement in a hazing ritual that resulted in the death of a pledge. Carter Eslick, 20, appeared before Coconino County Superior Court for the sentencing hearing related to the Jan. 31 death of 18-year-old Colin Daniel Martinez.
Martinez died from alcohol poisoning, with an autopsy revealing a blood-alcohol content of 0.425%, more than five times the legal limit for drivers over 21. Court documents indicate that Martinez was one of four pledges from the Delta Tau Delta fraternity who consumed two bottles of vodka as part of a ritual intended to induce vomiting.
Witnesses reported monitoring Martinez throughout the night, adjusting his sleeping position and checking his pulse and breathing for signs of severe intoxication.
During the proceedings, Martinez’s parents appeared remotely, expressing their ongoing grief and calling for accountability and reform within Greek life. Five friends and family members of Eslick also testified, attesting to his character while cautioning against the dangers inherent in fraternity culture.
“While trying to teach my children these things, I realized I failed to teach him or explain to them, and in those gaps, toxic influence and toxic communities have stepped in,” said Cody Eslick, Carter’s father.
Eslick apologized to the Martinez family, stating, “I am so incredibly deeply sorry for the events that happened on Jan. 31, and I take full responsibility for the hand I played in that ritual.” He added that he never would have participated had he known a life could be at stake.
Coconino County Attorney Ammon Barker emphasized that no sentence can reverse the harm suffered by the Martinez family, but hoped the case would encourage others to intervene and speak out against hazing.
Judge Stacy Krueger noted that Eslick was aware of the dangers involved and was troubled that no one intervened. In addition to the jail time and probation, Eslick must complete 305 anti-hazing presentations and refrain from alcohol or non-prescribed drug use. Failure to meet probation conditions could result in additional jail time.
Following Martinez’s death, Northern Arizona University suspended the Delta Tau Delta chapter, and the national organization subsequently closed the campus unit.
Colin Martinez deserved better. I hope this sentence sparks real reform in Greek life.
305 anti-hazing presentations seems excessive. Shouldn’t the punishment fit the crime more closely?
How can parents be expected to counter every toxic influence their kids encounter in college?
The father’s quote about failed teaching really hit me hard. It’s a systemic failure.
Two months for a death? This feels far too lenient for the tragedy caused here.