Friday, February 13, 1998 FORMER VMI CADET MAY SEEK CHARGES By MATT CHITTUM ROANOKE TIMES The family of the former Virginia Military Institute freshman who allegedly was beaten with a belt and a coat hanger by senior cadets was scheduled to meet with the Rockbridge County prosecutor about seeking assault charges against the seniors. VMI spokesman Mike Strickler said his understanding was the meeting would take place Thursday afternoon. Rockbridge Commonwealth's Attorney Gordon Saunders could not be reached to learn the outcome of the meeting. George Wade Jr., 20, of Henrico County said last week he and five other male freshmen "rats" were beaten an average of three times a week for several weeks by four seniors who were supposed to be serving as the rats' mentors. Three of the seniors were suspended for the rest of this school year, and the fourth was confined to barracks and given penalty marching tours. Wade and his family, however, contended that the seniors should have been charged with hazing. Saunders said he told the Wades that any hazing charges would have to originate with VMI, but that they could pursue assault warrants against the seniors instead. Wade's father, George Sr., said he has hired an attorney and plans to sue the three seniors. VMI would not identify the suspended cadets, but other sources at VMI have identified them as track team captain John Gonzalez of Mechanicsville, honor court member Brett McGinley of Carlisle, Pa., and Buck Clemons of Richmond.