Chicago police probe assault at fraternity party

A 21-year-old woman claimed she was sexually assaulted last weekend at a fraternity house near the University of Chicago, as Greek life across the nation faces increased scrutiny over allegations of misconduct. According to the university's crime log, the incident reportedly occurred at about 1:50 AM on Sunday at the off-campus Alpha Epsilon Pi residence.

Police obtained a report from the woman, who stated she was found partially undressed in a bathroom with a semi-naked man. She told authorities that a group had initially prevented her friends from entering the bathroom. Authorities have identified a person of interest who is not a student and has been barred from campus, but no one has been taken into custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

The fraternity's president, Jonathan Pierce, stated on Wednesday that there is no evidence to suggest members participated in the assault or were aware of it. The fraternity offered assistance, providing food, water, and a shirt to the victim as she awaited emergency services. Pierce expressed hope that the alleged perpetrator's identification would lead to justice for the victim.

This assault follows a gang-rape report at Cornell University's fraternity house in 2024, which sparked nationwide outrage and criticism of the school's handling of the case. New York prosecutors have since reopened their investigation into the Cornell incident, and the university has suspended all fraternity events for the rest of the academic year amidst growing backlash.

The University of Arizona also suspended all fraternity activities last week following multiple hazing and assault allegations, including claims of coercing recruits into engaging in binge drinking and swallowing live goldfish.