Sigma Chi’s National Headquarters has suspended its University of Central Florida chapter while UCF investigates an alleged hazing, the organization’s national director told the Orlando Sentinel on Monday.
Mike Dunn, executive director of Sigma Chi, said it did not appear that anyone had been injured, but tells that paper that many details are not yet clear, including whether pledges were involved.
“Those are the types of things the university is investigating so we have all of the facts in front of us,” he said.
This suspension by the fraternity’s headquarters reinforces the suspension placed by UCF following allegations of hazing that stemmed from a photo posted on Total Frat Move’s Facebook page.
UCF President Dr. John Hitt tells CFNews 13 he is waiting until all the facts come out before taking more action against Sigma Chi.
“Everybody’s entitled to due process,” Dr. Hitt told the media outlet. “But if there was hazing or underage drinking going on – both are illegal in Florida and they’re against University rules – they’ll be dealt with accordingly according to the law and the rules.”
UCF Sigma Chi President, David Barley, is expected to meet with UCF on Feb. 22 to discuss the incident, which alleges hazing as well as alcohol related misconduct.
Last semester, the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity was suspended by UCF following allegations of hazing reported by an anonymous source. In that instance, the ATO nationals did not suspend the chapter while UCF investigated, as was done in this case by Sigma Chi.
KnightNews.com asked UCF if they had reported the crime of hazing that was cited in the letter to Sigma Chi to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office yet, however, did not immediately hear back.
