Around 30 topless teenagers were found covered in food and other liquids in a hot basement during an alleged hazing incident at a University of Wisconsin-Madison fraternity house, according to police. Two 20-year-old students have been arrested in connection with the event.
Incident details
Responding to an anonymous tip, Madison Police discovered dozens of eighteen-year-old boys, described as "partially clothed males covered in food, condiments, and other liquids," in a "hot and humid" basement set at 27C. The incident took place on Wednesday evening, September 23, at the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity house.
Some of the teens had allegedly suffered "visible injuries consistent with being physically assaulted," according to a statement by Madison Police. The fraternity's president and vice-president were arrested in relation to the incident.
Arrests and charges
Brayden J. Klein, 20, and Samuel N. Vane, 20, both received hazing and disorderly conduct charges. They were reportedly booked into Dane County Jail before being released on bond.
According to the Daily Express, Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity has been officially discredited by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, although it has continued to operate outside of any formal affiliation and is recognised by the US's national fraternity organisation. An investigation has been launched by both the university and local police.
University and fraternity responses
In a statement, the University of Wisconsin-Madison said: "UW-Madison is fully committed to preventing and addressing hazing and takes all incidents involving our community seriously. Any student determined to be in violation of law, regulation, or university policy may be subject to sanctions according to Wis. Admin. Code Chapter UWS 17."
A spokesperson for the fraternity confirmed they would cooperate with all relevant authorities, telling PEOPLE: "Any member found responsible for criminal conduct in this matter will be expelled from AEPi, and we will support prosecution to the fullest extent of the law. We will also work with the university in hopes that they will take action against individual perpetrators for violation of the student code of conduct."
He added, "Hazing is a betrayal of everything our fraternity stands for. There is no place for it in AEPi. No exceptions. No excuses."
Appeal for information
Madison Police are calling for anyone with information on the incident to come forward and are offering money to encourage others to do so. They say: "Anyone with information about this incident or if you were actively involved, please contact Madison Area Crime Stoppers at 608-266-6014 or online at p3tips.com. Information may be shared anonymously and could be eligible for a monetary reward."
