USC suspends fraternity activities after sexual assault allegations

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The University of Southern California (USC) has suspended social fraternity activities after a sexual assault investigation began in connection with the Sigma Nu fraternity house.

The USC Interfraternity Council announced the suspension after allegations of sexual abuse and drugs slipped into drinks at fraternity parties.

“The Interfraternity Council is troubled and angered by the reported incidents of drugs and sexual violence by members of the Sigma Nu chapter at the University of Southern California,” IFC said in a written statement. We are disgusted that this violence has taken place in our community. There is no place for this heinous misconduct and a culture that supports it in the Interfraternity Council community at the University of Southern California or elsewhere. “

On October 20, USC’s public safety department issued a “timely crime alert” regarding the allegations and encouraged students to report any other information relating to the university or the LAPD.

Several reports followed the alert and the Department of Public Safety said it would increase security.

LAPD confirmed that Sigma Nu USC Chapter Chairman Ryan Schiffilea was a suspect in the investigation, but no arrests were made.

“One of the cases currently under investigation involves an allegation of sexual assault against a student member,” Sigma Nu Fraternity said in a statement. “This individual’s fellowship membership was immediately suspended by our chapter and the national fellowship, pending completion of applicable investigations and procedures. “

According to the Daily News, the USC campus police incident report lists at least five incidents of drug slipped into drinks at parties, dating back to September 27.

“Such behavior is deeply disturbing,” USC President Carol Folt said in a statement. “They hurt people and go against everything we stand for as a community. “

Hundreds of protesters gathered at USC’s “Fraternity Row” on Monday, posting signs outside Sigma Nu’s house reading “Rape House” and “Abolish Greek Life”.

Despite a moratorium on fraternity activities, the IFC is investigating possible violations over the weekend, according to USC campus newspaper the Daily Trojan.

The Daily Trojan editorial board also called for the “abolition” of the Intra-Brotherhood Council, saying:

“Brotherhoods are dangerous institutions that reinforce harmful behavior towards women, non-binary individuals and people of color. These institutions are places where racism, sexism, homophobia and classism flourish.

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