Wisconsin police investigating fraternity for hazing after men found in basement

Investigators in Wisconsin are looking into allegations of illegal hazing after about 30 partially clothed young men were found covered in food and liquids in the basement of a fraternity house near the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. Police responded to the Alpha Epsilon Pi (AEPi) fraternity house on Wednesday night following an anonymous tip. Two fraternity members, both 20, were arrested on suspicion of hazing and disorderly conduct, though no formal charges have been filed as of Friday morning.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is taking the matter seriously and has launched its own investigation. The fraternity's status as a recognized student organization on campus was terminated in 2015 due to holding events while suspended, and again in 2013 for hosting a party where two individuals were taken to a detox center after consuming alcohol. Since 2016, there have been seven additional allegations against the fraternity related to intramural sports, disrespectful behavior, drinking, and hazing.

The basement where the men were found had been heated to 81 degrees Fahrenheit, creating hot and humid conditions. Most of the individuals in the basement were 18 years old. The fraternity's national organization, AEPi, stated that they are taking the allegations "very seriously" and will cooperate fully with any investigations. Any member found to have participated in the alleged hazing will be expelled from the fraternity.