Syracuse University suspends fraternity after viral hazing videos

Syracuse University has publicly reprimanded a fraternity after alleged videos of “deeply offensive” hazing incidents were leaked on social media. The university identified the organization in question as Phi Kappa Psi and said it “immediately placed the fraternity on interim suspension.”

“I am outraged by the actions shown in these videos and condemn this behavior,” Chancellor Kent Syverud wrote in a statement to students. “The university has issued an immediate interim suspension halting all activities of Phi Kappa Psi. This suspension will remain in effect while the university conducts a prompt and thorough investigation.”

The graphic clips of alleged harassment circulated on Instagram, X and YikYak, Syracuse’s student publication, The NewsHouse reported. Although the videos were first reported to have been filmed at the University of Mississippi, a Syracuse spokesperson told Fox News that the incidents actually occurred at New York University.

In one clip, members of a fraternity can be seen forcing themselves to vomit on two students lying on the ground. Another member is seen tied to a pole with tape over his mouth.

Syverud described the behavior as “disgusting,” adding that the hazing was “a serious violation of university policy” and state law. In New York, hazing is a Class A misdemeanor.

An investigation, the chancellor said, is underway and is being approved by the university’s Department of Public Safety and Community Standards, which will “interview fraternity members, pledges and witnesses who come forward.” Syracuse police will determine “the seriousness and potential criminality” of the recorded events.

All people involved, Syverud continued, would face “appropriate disciplinary action.”

The National Council of Phi Kappa Psi will reportedly work closely with the university to investigate the incidents.

“These acts are deeply offensive and violate both the principles of the fraternity and the fundamental dignity of the individual,” Ronald Ransom, executive director of the fraternity, told NewsHouse. “Hazing has no place in Phi Kappa Psi or the community, and we remain committed to eliminating it from our organization.”

However, the Syracuse chapter of Phi Kappa Psi is no stranger to controversy. In 2021, allegations of sexual assault by members led to students protesting against the fraternity. And until May 2024, the organization was under disciplinary and social probation due to previous violations of the student code of conduct and a university investigation.

Read more at The Daily Beast.