Investigation Launched at Florida University Following Serious Hazing Allegations Against Fraternities
An investigation is underway at a Florida university after two fraternities were suspended due to serious hazing allegations. The University of Central Florida (UCF) has temporarily suspended Sigma Chi and Delta Upsilon following multiple reports of "dangerous and degrading" hazing, according to a school official’s statement shared with WKMG.
An incident report obtained by the Orlando Sentinel revealed alarming details, including allegations that Sigma Chi fraternity brothers struck pledges with a car as part of a hazing ritual. A sorority member living next to the Sigma Chi house reported hearing screams, witnessing a car hit a young man, and then hearing cries for help, including "my bones, my bones, they’re broken."
UCF officials confirmed that both fraternities are under interim organizational suspension and are being actively investigated by UCF Police for felony hazing, which includes "a risk of injury or death." A detective assigned to the case stated in the report that Sigma Chi brothers allegedly forced new members to stand in front of cars while being struck by them.
This is not the first time Sigma Chi has faced disciplinary action. The fraternity has been suspended eight times between 2015 and 2020, including four times in 2019 alone. One of the 2019 incidents involved allegations that the fraternity blindfolded a pledge and forced him to use cocaine.
The national chapters of both fraternities have also temporarily suspended the UCF chapters.
The oldest reported incident occurred in November at an off-campus fraternity house, though it was not reported until January 22. A second incident allegedly took place on campus at the Sigma Chi house between February 3 and February 24, and was reported on March 7. A third incident, also involving Sigma Chi, stems from a hit-and-run allegation on February 24. A fourth hazing incident was reported on March 4.
Authorities have not yet released specific details about the incidents or whether any individuals have been charged. It is also unclear how long the suspensions will last or what disciplinary actions the fraternities may face.
This marks the latest in a series of serious allegations within UCF’s Greek system, raising concerns about the persistence of hazing culture on campus. The suspensions follow last month’s disciplinary action against Phi Gamma Delta for alleged antisemitism, which reportedly involved "the use of hate symbols."
Courtney Gilmartin, UCF’s assistant vice president of strategic initiatives and communications, emphasized the university’s stance, stating, "UCF unequivocally condemns hazing in all forms, and we are committed to holding individuals and organizations accountable for actions that threaten the safety and well-being of our students and others."
As part of the suspensions, the fraternities are barred from all on- and off-campus activities, including recruitment and social events. Fox News Digital reached out to the university for further comment but did not receive an immediate response.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges in addressing hazing within collegiate Greek systems and underscores the need for continued vigilance and accountability.
Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to [email protected].
Stay updated with the latest news and updates by visiting our trusted sources: ZTC News and Z News Today. Explore in-depth articles, breaking stories, and more!