Temple Frat Suspended Amid Sex Assault Investigation

PHILADELPHIA – An investigation into alleged sexual assault, underage and excessive drinking, and possibly drug use at a Temple University fraternity's social events has led to its suspension – and charges may be forthcoming – according to Temple University and Philadelphia Police.

Alpha Epsilon Pi, which is located at 2000 N. Broad St., has been suspended as the university investigates the allegations.

The Special Victims Unit of the Philadelphia Police Department said there are two incidents that are under investigation.

"The university has suspended the organization’s rights and privileges to operate as a recognized fraternity pending investigations by Temple and city police," the university said in its statement.

The reports of underage drinking, the excessive use of alcohol, possibly drugs and sexual misconduct, including sexual assault are credible, the school says.

"In addition, the university has increased police presence in various areas including the 2000 block of Broad Street while it further investigates these allegations," the statement reads.

The organization issued a statement on the suspension and allegations

"We are aware of the rumors and the nature of the investigation by Temple University Police and the local authorities and continue to cooperate fully with both," Jonathan Pierce, a Past International President of Alpha Epsilon Pi International Fraternity, said in a statement. "The University has asked us not to conduct our own investigation and, to date, we have received no other official notice from the University. We are, obviously, very concerned about these allegations as they have no place in Alpha Epsilon Pi."

Two incidents are under investigation, police said.

The first happened in February but was reported to authorities in April, according to police. Authorities said a female student attended a party at the frat house and alleges to have been sexually assaulted.

The second alleged sexual assault happened in March and was also reported in April, police said. Another female student went to a party at the house and was served drinks then became dizzy and disoriented, according to police. Police said she woke up in bed with a fraternity member and believes she was sexually assaulted.

Police said they are working to identify a possible third victim.

No charges have been filed, but police said details of the first alleged assault have been referred to the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office for a review of potential charges.

Police said anyone who may be a victim is urged to contact them or Temple police.

Alpha Epsilon Pi had its social privileges suspended in early April during an investigation for "potential violations," according to the Temple News.

After the social suspension, the fraternity issued a statement denying the accusations of "potential violations," saying the organization was "appalled" at the allegations.

"Our Chapter is willing to completely cooperate with the University's investigation, and other than that, have decided to close out house to all non-brother of AEPi for the immediate future," the fraternity's statement reads in part.

Alpha Epsilon Pi was chartered at Temple in 1956, the organization's website says.

On Friday, April 20 in its announcement, offered tips to students on how to stay safe:

• If you are of age and you choose to drink alcohol, do not leave any beverage unattended, and be wary of accepting drinks from others.
• It is also important to look out for one another while socializing—when you go out with friends, make a pact to stay together and leave no one behind.
• Remember, Temple University has a medical amnesty policy that states that no student will be subject to university discipline for seeking medical treatment for the effects of drug or alcohol use, and this amnesty will be granted to both the intoxicated student and the student seeking help for an intoxicated student.
• If you are suspicious of what a drink might contain or concerned about the impact it’s having on a friend, seek medical help immediately. Signs to look for include dizziness and/or nausea, memory loss, breathing or motion difficulties, and acting disproportionately intoxicated relative to the amount of alcohol consumed.
• Should you see signs like these, call 215-204-1234 immediately.

"Your safety is our highest priority," the statement reads.

Students in need of support or with any information about these potential violations are encouraged to contact Campus Safety Services at 215-204-1234 or police@temple.edu; the Dean of Students Office at 215-204-7188 or dos@temple.edu; or the Wellness Resource Center at 215-204-8436 or tuheart@temple.edu.

Additionally, Any member of the Temple community or the general public can make an anonymous report online here.

Image via Google