A former St. Joseph's University baseball player has filed a civil lawsuit alleging assault, hazing and severe emotional distress stemming from a team trip in March.
The complaint, filed in Suffolk County court, names St. Joseph's University, head coach Thomas Caputo, assistant coach Elliot Robles and approximately 30 unnamed teammates as defendants, accusing them of negligence and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
According to the filing, the incident occurred on March 5 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where the plaintiff was forced to strip naked in front of his teammates, cover himself only with a plastic cup and was then subjected to a physical attack that included dirty underwear being placed on his face.
The lawsuit contends that this episode is part of a broader pattern of abuse within the Golden Eagle program, referencing prior incidents such as attempts to kick down a hotel room door and the restraining of teammates, indicating that the misconduct was not isolated.
A pattern of abuse emerges
St. Joseph's University has acknowledged the litigation but, citing pending legal matters, has declined to comment further. An internal investigation conducted by the school reportedly corroborated portions of the victim’s account.
The plaintiff seeks compensatory damages for the physical injuries, reputational harm and ongoing psychological effects he has endured, and requests a court order to prevent future hazing within the program.
The case highlights concerns about the university’s Student Handbook, which expressly prohibits hazing and mandates disciplinary procedures, and may influence how collegiate athletic programs address systemic abuse.