The University of Maryland has lifted its suspension of most fraternities and sororities following an investigation into hazing and alcohol-related activities. The university announced that 32 chapters have been cleared to resume normal activities, while five chapters will remain under investigation with limited restrictions in place.
Court filings revealed disturbing reports of forced heavy drinking, beatings with a paddle, burning with cigarettes, exposure to cold, and other forms of hazing. The university initially suspended fraternity and sorority activities on March 1, prohibiting events involving alcohol and recruitment activities during the investigation.
Despite a lawsuit filed by a group representing several fraternities seeking a restraining order against the ban, the Maryland Attorney General's office argued that the university's decision to lift restrictions rendered the request moot. The university maintained that it was authorized under its student code of conduct to impose restrictions while investigating serious allegations of hazing and alcohol abuse.
Three of the four plaintiff chapters, including Theta Chi, Alpha Sigma Phi, and Alpha Tau Omega, have been cleared to resume normal activities. However, the university continues its investigation into one fraternity based on allegations of hazing and alcohol abuse.
The university's Office of Student Conduct received reports of conduct violations, including the discovery of prohibited substances and drug paraphernalia in a fraternity house, as well as allegations of harmful hazing practices such as forcing members to endure extreme cold and physical abuse.
Anonymous reports detailed disturbing hazing rituals involving physical assault, forced consumption of live fish, chewing tobacco, urine, and excessive alcohol consumption. The university has taken these reports seriously and is actively investigating the allegations.
A court hearing has been scheduled for Monday to address the ongoing legal proceedings. It remains to be seen how the university's decision to clear most fraternities for normal activities will impact the lawsuit filed by the fraternity group.
