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Citadel investigates photos of cadets wearing white hoods

CHARLESTON, S.C. — South Carolina's military college The Citadel is investigating after pictures surfaced on social media this week of cadets dressed in all white with pillowcases over their heads, images similar to the KKK.

A statement from college president called the photographs offensive and disturbing and said the college has begun proceedings to suspend the eight students involved.

In the Facebook post, a girl was reportedly "threatened, harassed and offered money from numerous Citadel Cadets to take (the photos) offline in order to not 'ruin their lives.'"

The photos were posted on Facebook as well as Snapchat this week.

On Thursday, the president of the military college, retired Air Force Lt. Gen. John W. Rosa released the following statement about the incident:

“A social media posting, which I find offensive and disturbing, was brought to my attention this morning. It shows an upper class cadet in front of seven cadets with pillowcases over their heads. In accordance with college policy, we immediately began suspension proceedings for those cadets known to be involved, and we are continuing to investigate this incident. Preliminary reports are cadets were singing Christmas carols as part of a “Ghosts of Christmas Past” skit. These images are not consistent with our core values of honor, duty and respect. We will provide more information upon completion of the investigation.”

A source told Channel 9's partners at WCIV that the photo was taken in one of the barracks on campus, and that the ritual could be considered a form of hazing.

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