SEMO probes hazing report

Southeast Missouri State University officials are investigating a report of a hazing at the University's Zeta Phi Beta Sorority chapter.

No details were released by university officials Thursday other than a statement by Art Wallhausen, associate to the president, saying the national organization has suspended the university's chapter until an investigation is completed.

The university is conducting its own criminal investigation, Wallhausen said, through the Department of Public Safety. A copy of the investigation report will be turned over to the office of the prosecuting attorney for a determination of whether criminal charges will be filed, according to Doug Richards, director of public safety.

Wallhausen said the university will not discuss the details of the reported hazing or the investigation until the latter is completed.

The university was notified Monday by Zeta Phi Beta about the suspension and the reported hazing, he said.

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 regarding hazing. If the action by the national organization is confirmed in writing, the university will inform local members that the Southeast chapter has lost recognition and is closed, Irby said.

Any students found to be involved in a hazing incident 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 to expulsion.