University of Colorado suspends Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity over hazing reports
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The University of Colorado Boulder suspended its Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity chapter after receiving what officials described as a “credible hazing report,” prompting an immediate halt to all chapter activities.
The initial report was received on Dec. 1 and was formally discussed with campus officials the next day, according to the university. At least two more anonymous reports alleging “extreme or violent hazing” have since emerged, CU Boulder said in a campus safety alert issued Thursday night.
No other details were given regarding the allegations.
The fraternity will be suspended while the investigation continues. In the meantime, the university urges anyone with information regarding hazing allegations involving Phi Kappa Sigma or any campus-affiliated organization to file a report through Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution, Safe2Tell or Metro Denver Crime Stoppers.
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The CU Boulder campus appears to be investigating allegations of hazing that led officials to suspend the Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity. (David Zalubowski/AP Photo)
A CU Boulder spokesperson emphasized that the credible report triggered the interim suspension, but said additional anonymous reports were being reviewed.
“I want to be clear that the university received a credible report of hazing regarding Phi Kappa Sigma and this has led to interim suspension,” the spokesperson told Fox News Digital. “CU Boulder has also reported this to the Phi Kappa Sigma national organization and is in communication with it.”
“In addition, the university received at least two additional anonymous reports of extreme or violent harassment this week,” the spokesperson continued. “We are seeking information about any incidents of hazing involving CU Boulder students, including Phi Kappa Sigma and anonymous reports, and ask people to report this information to Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution.”
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The University of Colorado Boulder said one of its fraternities was suspended Thursday after receiving a “credible report” of hazing. (Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images)
The spokesperson added that privacy laws prevent the university from discussing details of the case, but emphasized that CU Boulder “takes all allegations seriously” and is investigating them “to the fullest extent possible.” Bullying is prohibited under both Colorado state law and university policy.
Boulder Police also addressed the situation, stating that the department has no substantiated reports of hazing in the city. A police spokesperson told Fox News Digital that since August, officers have received three reports of hazing involving CU Boulder fraternities on University Hill, all of which were investigated and determined to be either unfounded or closed.
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The University of Colorado Boulder announced it is investigating a “credible report” of hazing involving the Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity. (University of Colorado Boulder Police)
The department emphasized its ongoing involvement with the campus community, including assigning a liaison officer to each fraternity. Police encouraged anyone with information about possible criminal activity to contact Boulder Police at 303-441-3333.
Phi Kappa Sigma’s national headquarters also addressed the suspension.
“We will partner with the institution to investigate alleged behavior within our University of Colorado-Boulder Chapter. Phi Kappa Sigma does not tolerate hazing or hazing-like behavior and will continue to strive to eradicate it from the Greek System,” the fraternity’s executive director said in a statement to Fox News Digital. he said.
Phi Kappa Sigma, known nationally as “The Skulls,” joined the CU Boulder Interfraternity Council in spring 2022, according to the school’s website. The fraternity defined its values as centered on academic achievement, respectful behavior and strong brotherhood.
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The investigation is still ongoing.
CU Boulder said future updates will be posted on the alerts page. The safety alert also provided students with guidance on recognizing potential hazing, including coercion, unsafe or degrading activities, or tasks presented as mandatory for joining a group. The school encouraged students to trust their instincts, intervene only when safe, and report concerns to campus officials.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the school’s Phi Kappa Sigma chapter and CU Boulder Police for comment.
Stepheny Price covers crimes including missing persons, murders and immigration crime. Send story tips to stepheny.price@fox.com.
