The SCED sent out a suspension letter to the fraternity yesterday, in which two conduct violations of the USF Student Code of Conduct were identified: underage consumption of alcohol and hazing.
The letter cites reports of a Feb. 11 incident where the fraternity hosted an off-campus bid party in which guests drew on members of the organization’s shirts with inappropriate objects, such as penises and swastikas. Additionally, alcohol was present and consumed at the event, according to the letter.
Creative Loafing Tampa Bay reached out to the president and the recruitment chair of the fraternity, as well as Pi Kappa Phi's headquarters and they have not yet responded to our inquiries.
During the suspension, the fraternity is unable to participate in “any activity or events sponsored/co-sponsored by the chapter or any other entity,” “utilize any services/resources offered to the student organization through any University office/department” and “participate in or hold leadership positions in their governing council.”
Also as part of the suspension, the president of the fraternity will be required to attend an informational meeting on March 1 to discuss the organization's due process rights, the allegations, evidence and charges. Consequently, the Hearing Officer will review the information and decide if the suspension will remain, be modified or lifted.
Even though a further student conduct investigation is currently ongoing, the USF Police Department said that it “is not currently investigating any hate crimes to the Jewish community because we do not have a victim.”