Phi Gamma Delta fraternity at the University of Tennessee has been placed on interim suspension while the university investigates an alleged rape. Phi Gamma Delta is commonly referred to as FIJI.
Tyra Haag, a spokeswoman for the University of Tennessee, said that the school’s Campus Authority Security received a report of an alleged rape on Thursday, November 29, 2018, at the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity house. Additionally, Haag said in her statement the unidentified victim claimed that the perpetrator was a known acquaintance.
FIJI was placed on interim suspension on interim suspension on Saturday, December 1, 2018, and will remain on suspension until further notice. As a result of their suspension, the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity must cease all activities at the chapter.
According to WVLT 8, a spokeswoman for the University of Tennessee Police Department said that officers are investigating the reported rape and that the case is still open and active at this time. Additionally, the UTPD said that because the case is still open, additional details such as information about the accused rapist can not be released.
The interim suspension of Phi Gamma Delta at the University of Tennessee is the latest major Greek life suspension, expulsion, disaffiliation, or overhaul in the last year, as schools such as Indiana University, the University of Michigan, Ohio State University, Texas State, Florida State, Ball State, Louisiana State, and Penn State have all suspended fraternities for various reasons.
Fraternities have been suspended or expelled across the nation as Greek life organizations and universities attempt to grapple with the pitfalls of hazing, alcohol and drug abuse, and sexual assault.
Schools such as Indiana University, the University of Michigan, Ohio State University, Texas State, Florida State, Ball State, Louisiana State, and Penn State have all suspended or expelled fraternities for various reasons.