AEPi Suspends Madison Chapter After Hazing Investigation

Key points

• AEPi issued a cease-and-desist directive to its Madison chapter, halting all programming pending an investigation into health and safety violations.
• Madison police arrested Brayden Klein and Samuel Vane, both 20, for hazing and disorderly conduct after finding 30 pledges in a basement.
• The pledges, mostly 18-year-olds, were found partially clothed, covered in condiments, and showed signs of physical assault in a room set to 81 degrees.
• UW-Madison is investigating the incident through its student conduct office, noting the chapter was unrecognized by the university since 2015 but remains recognized nationally.
• The national fraternity stated that any member found responsible for criminal conduct will be expelled and that they will support prosecution.

Background

This incident follows a history of issues with the Alpha Epsilon Pi chapter at UW-Madison. The university terminated the chapter's recognition in 2015 after a series of incidents involving alcohol and events, including a 2013 suspension. Since 2016, there have been seven additional allegations involving the group. The national organization continues to recognize the Madison chapter, allowing it to operate as an unaffiliated entity.

How outlets are covering it

Channel 3000 and NBC News reported on the arrests and the national suspension, emphasizing the physical conditions of the basement and the injuries to the pledges. The Guardian highlighted the fraternity's history of misconduct and the university's stance on unrecognized organizations. UW-Madison's official statement focused on the legal status of the chapter and the university's commitment to investigating student misconduct through its nonacademic misconduct process. All sources agree on the core facts of the incident and the subsequent actions by the national fraternity and police.

Why it matters

The incident underscores the risks associated with underground or unrecognized student organizations, which lack university oversight. It highlights the ongoing challenges in preventing hazing and the importance of anonymous reporting mechanisms. The response from the national fraternity and the university signals a commitment to addressing such violations, potentially influencing future policies on student organization recognition and safety.

What to watch

The national fraternity's investigation will inform recommendations to its Supreme Board of Governors for further actions. UW-Madison's Office of Student Conduct will determine sanctions for any students found in violation of policy. The arrested individuals are expected to appear in court, though specific dates were not provided. The university and police investigations are ongoing.