Reports of ‘drug-facilitated sexual assaults’ place California fraternity on suspension

A fraternity in California was placed on an interim suspension after the university said it received reports that drugs were being added to drinks, leading to possible sexual assaults.

University of Southern California officials said Wednesday they received a report of sexual assault at the Sigma Nu fraternity house in Los Angeles.

“The university also has received reports of drugs being placed into drinks during a party at the same fraternity house, leading to possible drug-facilitated sexual assaults,” USC said in a news release.

Sigma Nu was placed on interim suspension, which means it cannot host or organize any activities. Members also cannot have parties or social gatherings at the Sigma Nu house.

The information was reported to the Los Angeles Police Department to investigate, USC said.

From Sept. 27 to Oct. 20, at least six different incidents of drugging were reported at the fraternity house, ABC 7 reported. One report involved a sexual assault.

“The university provides for a fair, thorough and timely resolution process,” the university told the Los Angeles Times in a statement. “We are deeply concerned when any student experiences any kind of trauma, and we offer both private and confidential support resources, as well as supportive measures, to involved parties.”

The Sigma Nu national headquarters was also notified of the chapter’s suspension, the Times reported.

“The Fraternity is concerned by these serious allegations and will seek to work with University officials to investigate the matter,” Christopher Brenton, director of communications for Sigma Nu Fraternity Inc., told KTLA “The Fraternity will determine its further actions based upon the investigation.”

This story was originally published October 22, 2021 at 8:01 AM with the headline "Reports of ‘drug-facilitated sexual assaults’ place California fraternity on suspension."