SEMO investigating alleged hazing incident

The Zeta Phi Beta chapter at Southeast Missouri State University has been suspended after an alleged hazing incident was reported to the national organization, university officials said Thursday.

The sorority chapter has been suspended by the national organization until an investigation can be completed.

Officials will not discuss the incident until the investigation by the university's Department of Public Safety is completed, said Art Wallhausen, associate to the president, in a written release Thursday. Wallhausen said the university was notified Monday by Zeta Phi Beta about the suspension and the reported hazing.

According to Michele Irby, director of campus life, no allegations about the incident had previously been reported to the university, which has a zero-tolerance policy on hazing. If the action by the national organization is confirmed in writing, the university will inform local members the Southeast chapter has lost recognition and is closed, Irby said.

Under Missouri law, hazing is a misdemeanor, unless the act creates a substantial risk to the life of the student or prospective member, in which case it is a felony.

Any students found to be involved in hazing will face possible disciplinary action by the university's Judicial Affairs Office and All University Judicial Board for violation of the Code of Conduct, according to Trent Ball, acting dean of students. Sanctions for violations range from a warning up to expulsion.