The University of Southern California has suspended fraternity activists following an investigation into a sexual assault that started about the fraternity house Sigma Nu. The USC Interfraternity Council (USC IFC) disclosed the suspension that followed sexual abuse accusations and claims of drug use at fraternity parties.
The USC IFC is disturbed by the incidents that pertain to the members of the chapter of Sigma Nu at the USC. In a recent statement, it said that abhorrent misconduct or a culture supporting that behavior has no place in its community or at any place.
The USC Department of Public Safety issued a notification regarding the accusations and tried to make students report on more relating details to the Los Angeles Police Department or the University.
Multiple reports came after the notification, and the Department stated that it would boost security. The Los Angeles Police Department has confirmed that Ryan Schiffilea, President of Sigma Nu Fraternity USC Chapter, is a suspect during the investigation. There has not been any arrest made, though.
Sigma Nu Fraternity stated that a matter presently under investigation concerns a sexual assault accusation against a student member. The Chapter and the Fraternity instantly suspended the fraternity membership of that student, until applicable procedures and investigations are completed.
According to USC campus-related police incident records, there have been five or more incidents of substances put in beverages at parties since September 27, 2021, as per the Daily News.
President of the University of Southern California Carol Folt stated that this behavior is deeply disturbing and that it goes against whatever the community stands for. There were hundreds of demonstrators at the Fraternity Row of the University of Southern California. The protestors outside the location of Sigma Nu posted signs that read “Abolish Greek Life” and “Rape House.”
In spite of a temporary prohibition of fraternity activity, the Interfraternity Council is looking into possible violations during the weekend, as per the Daily Trojan newspaper. The editorial board of the newspaper, available on the University of Southern California campus, demanded the IFC be abolished.
The Daily Trojan described fraternities as dangerous institutions reinforcing harmful behavior towards women, non-white people and nonbinary people. The newspaper also stated that classism, homophobia, sexism and racism flourish in these kinds of institutions.
