USF suspends fraternity after reports of hazing

TAMPA - The University of South Florida has suspended one fraternity after allegations of an off-campus hazing incident surfaced, president Judy Genshaft said.

In an open letter to students and staff, Genshaft said “[Hazing] is against university policy, and it is totally unacceptable at USF. It is why all American universities and student organizations condemn hazing.”

Although Genshaft did not name the fraternity in her letter, Tampa Police spokeswoman Laura McElroy said the allegations involved the USF chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

The alleged incidents took place about 11:30 p.m. on August 22nd and 23rd, at 2112 West Busch Boulevard, McElroy said.

Neither McElroy or USF officials would reveal any details on what allegedly happened. McElroy said none of the suspects are current USF students.

Friday two Tampa Police officers responded to the fraternity to begin the investigation. Detectives began interviewing witnesses, victims, and suspects this past weekend, McElroy said.

Detectives are trying to determine if a crime took place, and expect the investigation to last a few more days. 

No charges have been filed at this time.

Genshaft said the fraternity’s national chapter has been notified, and any students involved will be suspended.

“Unfortunately, this group held a secret off-campus meeting and violated the standards and policies of not only our university, but the rights of our students.” Genshaft said.

Omega Psi Phi was founded in 1911 at Howard University. USF's chapter was formed in 1972, according to the chapter's website.