WVU suspends two frat chapters as police seize evidence in hazing probe
Search warrants were executed Monday at Lambda Chi Alpha and Pi Kappa Alpha houses, triggering campus-wide scrutiny and a temporary halt on Greek life activities.
By Kevin Iyer ·
West Virginia University has suspended two fraternity chapters while police investigate hazing allegations that prompted search warrants at their residential houses.
The investigation began with a series of reports that university officials described as multiple in number, though specific details regarding the nature or quantity of the complaints have not been made public. In response, the university placed the Lambda Chi Alpha and Pi Kappa Alpha chapters under suspension. This administrative action prevents the groups from holding social events, recruiting new members, or conducting any new member programs until the review is complete. The university cited its Campus Student Code, which strictly prohibits hazing for recognized student organizations and explicitly lists beatings, branding, and forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs as violations. University officials stated they maintain a zero-tolerance policy for activities that threaten student safety.
On Monday, West Virginia University Police Department officers served search warrants on the two houses located in Morgantown. Video footage captured by the Daily Athenaeum, the student newspaper, showed law enforcement officers exiting the properties carrying multiple bags. While police did not specify the contents of the bags, they confirmed that items were removed as part of the ongoing probe. Morgantown Police Chief Eric Powell indicated that his officers were present at the scene to provide support to the university police force. Hundreds of students gathered on nearby sidewalks and in neighboring yards to observe the operation. The visual evidence of the raid, combined with the sudden suspension, has generated significant attention among the student body.
West Virginia freshman Madison McGough described the proximity of the activity to student housing as intense, noting that the events were occurring directly outside their residences. The university announced the suspension following what it termed multiple reports, a designation that often triggers a campus safety alert under the Clery Act. This federal law requires colleges to disclose campus crimes that pose a serious or continuing threat to the community. University Police stated that due to the sensitive nature of the investigations, no further details would be released immediately. They promised to provide updates as information becomes available.
No arrests or charges have been announced as of Tuesday. The university reaffirmed its commitment to providing a safe environment for students, faculty, and staff. The suspension remains in effect while the review of the allegations continues, keeping the two chapters in a state of administrative limbo.
