Story by Mike Nolting, MetroNews
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — A WVU official said Monday a hazing investigation into a WVU fraternity remains an active investigation.
WVU announced the interim suspension of Greek organization Phi Sigma Phi late last week.
WVU Fraternal Values and Leadership Director Dr. Matthew Richardson said the announcement was made promptly on Friday to inform the campus of the investigation and alleged danger on campus.
“With interim action, we can’t always talk about the specifics because it’s an active investigation,” Richardson said during a Monday appearance on MetroNews “Talkline.” “But, it’s enough to get attention so our students know what organizations are, what their status is, and whether or not these are places they should be.”
Members of the fraternity are accused of violating two sections of the WVU Main Campus Student Code of Conduct. First, allegedly endangering or adversely affecting the mental or physical safety of another person or group of people and causing extreme embarrassment or adversely affecting the dignity of another person or group.
“Any allegation we get where someone is coming forward—a student, a family member, or a community member saying I saw this and it was distressing—those are the things we’re going to be taking action on,” Richardson said.
The suspension will remain in place until the investigation is complete. During that time, members cannot conduct activities as a group or recruit new members.
“If the group is found responsible, there will be educational measures put in place to hopefully rehabilitate and prevent the behavior from reoccurring,” Richardson said.
The university maintains an online listing of the disciplinary status of all Greek organizations and encourages violations of the code of conduct to be reported immediately. The status page includes registered, not-registered, and dissociated organizations.
“The information received, like with any report, is taken seriously, and we take action when we can,” Richardson said.
Richardson said they have a very clear education campaign to make sure students know what is over the line and what should be reported. A step-by-step process is offered online so family members and students have complete access to helpful information and contacts in one location.
“Because of this, students and other stakeholders know where to go for help, and I think that is a direct reflection of those prevention efforts,” Richardson said.