Florida Firefighters Arrested in Alleged Violent Hazing Incident: Waterboarding
A group of firefighters with Marion County Fire and Rescue have been arrested in connection with what authorities describe as a violent hazing incident. According to public reporting, the alleged misconduct triggered a criminal investigation that resulted in multiple arrests.
Detectives from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office’s major crimes division arrested Edward Kenny III, 22; Seth Day, 22; and Tate Trauthewein, 19, on charges of kidnapping, robbery and battery. Kaylee Bradley, 25, was also charged with robbery and principal/accessory to robbery.
All four have been fired, according to Fire Chief James Banta.
According to the accusations, the incident involved a pattern of harassment and abuse inflicted on a colleague, culminating in the victim being waterboarded. Law enforcement officials opened the investigation after reports were made that the hazing had escalated beyond “harmless pranks” — the victim allegedly suffered physical harm.
During the criminal proceedings, prosecutors pointed to a culture that tolerated intimidating and demeaning conduct. One investigator stated, “this was more than a joke — it was violence disguised as tradition.” The prosecution argues the actions went well past any acceptable initiation ritual.
While the case unfolds, the agency has emphasized its commitment to ensuring a safe work environment free from harassment, hazing, or retaliation. Here is a press conference about the incident.
