GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Nine members of a University of Florida fraternity are facing misdemeanor hazing charges after they allegedly struck and paddled pledges.

The Gainesville Sun reported that the Alpha Phi Alpha members were charged Monday with paddling five pledges and hitting them in the chest during a hazing ritual known as “thunderslaps.” If convicted, they could be jailed for a year and fined $1,000. They could also face suspension or expulsion from school.

Police say the hazing occurred between Jan. 22 and Feb. 1 at a Gainesville home where members lived. They were paddled for failing to recite information and correctly answer questions about the fraternity.

A Florida A&M University drum major died in November from injuries suffered during a band hazing ritual. No one has been charged in that case.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.