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Two Fresno State hazing suspects in court

The Fresno Bee

Wednesday, Mar. 13, 2013 | 11:34 PM

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Two of three suspects in a Fresno State fraternity hazing death no longer face arrest and on Wednesday learned the date for their arraignment, but a third remains at large.

Daniel Woodard Baker, 22, appeared in court with his lawyer, Antonio Alvarez, and had his warrant removed from the court system.

Leonard Serrato, 28, arranged his bail Tuesday night and completed paperwork with a bail bondsman Wednesday to avoid arrest, said his lawyer, Jeff Hammerschmidt. Serrato, however, did not appear in court, he said.

Earlier story: 3 Fresno State students charged in hazing death

Because Serrato bailed out, his arrest warrant was removed from the court system. His bail was $2,000, and he was required to put up 10%, or $200, to secure his release from the warrant. His arraignment was originally set for June but was merged with Baker's.

Fresno County District Attorney's Office officials confirmed both men will be arraigned April 16.

Serrato, Baker and Aaron Joseph Raymo, 24, are charged with misdemeanor counts of hazing and providing alcohol to a minor, which authorities said led to the September death of Philip Dhanens, a freshman pledge of the Theta Chi fraternity. The Fresno County Coroner's Office said Dhanens' blood-alcohol level was .36, more than four times the legal limit to drive.

Fresno police say Serrato and Raymo bought alcoholic beverages consumed at a fraternity party on Aug. 31. Baker, who was fraternity president, organized the pledge party event, police said.

An arrest warrant remains in effect for Raymo. His bail also is set at $2,000, according to court records.


Check fresnobee.com for breaking news.

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  • EDITORIAL: Comply — or else — for Fresno State Greeks

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