Nationals conclude ZBT hazing probe

By David Enders

Daily Staff Reporter

The national chapter of the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity has closed its investigation into a hazing incident that occurred at its campus chapter last month.

"The National Fraternity, after having completed its investigation into allegations of hazing at its University of Michigan Chapter, is now reviewing its findings in order to issue appropriate sanctions in the near future," ZBT Executive Director Jonathan Yulish said in a written statement yesterday.

But Yulish stressed revoking the chapter's charter would not be an option.

"We're taking this extremely seriously," he said. "Obviously we do address the issues when we find them."

The incident involves a pledge who was burned with a bleach-based cleansing agent by fraternity members in March, leaving scars that are possibly permanent.

But the University's Interfraternity Council has not closed its own investigation into the matter.

"Whatever their national board decides for them, the Greek Activities Review Panel will continue its investigation," said IFC Executive Vice President and GARP Chairman Marc Hustvedt, an LSA junior.

Penalties that IFC may level against ZBT include expulsion from the council, which could prevent the fraternity from retaining its house.

Allegations of hazing were made against the house earlier this year by parents of first semester pledges, but the national chapter found no evidence to support the claims.

"The National Fraternity has always taken the necessary steps to protect its undergraduate members and maintain the integrity of its non-pledging and non-hazing policies," Yulish said.

The ongoing investigation concludes a tumultuous academic year for the Greek system.

"Some of the events that took place this year are really forcing our community to make change - this isn't a cliche we can throw around anymore - we get closer and closer to experiencing a serious loss. I'm confident that with the kind of muscle we have behind our new hazing policy that our houses will be forced to make changes," IFC Vice President for External Affairs Jerry Mangona said.

In addition to Alpha Epsilon Pi and Phi Gamma Delta having their charters revoked this year, several fraternities will be switching houses. Sigma Phi Epsilon will be vacating its house at 725 Oxford St. to move into the Pi Kappa Alpha house at 1801 Washtenaw Ave. Pike is moving into Delta Sigma Phi's house at 1501 Washtenaw Ave. Delta Sig is moving into Sigma Chi's temporary residence at 1437 Washtenaw Ave. Sigma Chi will be returning to their renovated house on South State Street.