UI's Sigma Alpha Epsilon Shut Down in Light of Sex Assualt Investigation

The University of Iowa closed the doors on one of its fraternities this week as police investigate a sexual assault case linked to the fraternity.



Authorities are undergoing a sexual assault investigation linked to the University of Iowa's Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity after receiving a report of a sexual assault that allegedly occurred at the fraternity house on September 11.

Lt. Doug Hart is investigating the report that was filed, but was unable to reach any of the members Tuesday due to the closed doors of the fraternity. He stated that the alleged victim of the crime is an adult female.

The fraternity itself made the announcement Monday that the Iowa Beta chapter will be closed and every member has been expelled. The reason stated was nothing linked to the case. They stated that, according to the Des Moines Register Website, it was shut down because of "hazing and the chapter's failure to comply with our standards, guidelines and policies.

Whether the investigation had anything to do with the closure is unknown, but it is known that this is not the fraternity's first violation. They were sanctioned in spring of last year. A statement issued on Monday also hinted to illegal alcohol consumption, but nothing was said about this.

The University of Iowa Sally Manson gave a statement supporting the action of the headquarters in closing the Iowa Beta chapter. No charges have been filed in the sexual assault case as of yet.

The chapter may not remain permanently closed, though. Many chapters of fraternities have been closed for times because of behavior and then reinstated at later times. The current members, though, are ineligible for membership for life.
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