BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – The Indiana University Police Department (IUPD) has reported five alleged hazing incidents and one rape following a temporary suspension of social events by the university’s Interfraternity Council (IFC) and Panhellenic Association earlier this month.
According to Public Information Officer Hannah Skibba, the hazing incidents occurred before the IFC and Panhellenic Association announced a pause on all Greek life social activities between March 5 and March 24. The suspension was implemented to address safety concerns and promote community health, reports the Indiana Daily Student.
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The five hazing reports were filed on March 6 and March 7. One incident reportedly took place on January 13 at the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity, while another occurred on February 16 in Ballantine Hall. IUPD stated that the second incident involved an unidentified organization, and the specifics were not disclosed by the Office of Student Conduct, which referred inquiries back to IUPD.
Additionally, the third report, categorized as “possible hazing,” implicated the Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity. The report, made by a university employee, did not include details about the alleged activity.
Sorority Linked to 2 Hazing Incidents at IU
Sigma Delta Tau sorority was linked to two separate hazing incidents on January 28 and February 1. These events reportedly occurred at the Sigma Delta Tau house and were followed by the sorority being placed on cease-and-desist status from January 28 until March 4. The chapter resolved these hazing matters with the Office of Student Conduct through a voluntary agreement on March 4.
All five hazing cases have been referred to university officials for further investigation.
Separately, IUPD reported receiving a sexual assault evidence kit for storage on March 2. Officer Skibba stated that the assault occurred at a Greek life house on campus earlier that day. The victim has not filed a police report at this time.
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Currently, 13 Greek organizations at Indiana University face disciplinary measures, with eight chapters under suspension and two operating under cease-and-desist orders. The most recent cease-and-desist statuses are Beta Sigma Psi as of February 28, and Sigma Chi since November 5, 2024.
Stop Campus Hazing Act Now in Effect
These incidents come shortly after President Joe Biden signed the Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA) into law in December 2024. The legislation amends the Clery Act to establish a framework for hazing prevention and accountability in higher education. Institutions are now required to include hazing statistics in annual security reports, develop hazing prevention policies, and compile transparency reports regarding student organizations found responsible for such activities.
The new law aims to strengthen campus safety following increased scrutiny of hazing practices nationwide. The Clery Center, along with bipartisan sponsors and advocacy groups, has championed these measures to address hazing as a critical threat to student safety.
