Members of the non-university sanctioned fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi are accused of brutally beating pledges with canes and whips, and even shooting them with a BB gun.
The four people were abused on 23 occasions over several weeks, according to the search and arrest warrants filed in Kern County Superior Court.
One victim was rushed to a hospital after collapsing at home April 6. His body was bruised and swollen, he couldn't walk and doctors determined he had herniated and ruptured discs in his back, court records show.
The suspects are students and alumni between the ages of 21 to 24 years old. They have been booked on suspicion of not only hazing, but conspiracy and torture.
The Philadelphia-based fraternity is investigating the allegations and cannot comment on the specifics of the case. The Bakersfield Police Department also said the investigation was ongoing.
The Associated Press contributed to this story
