Blindfolded and Hazed: University of Iowa Fraternity Suspended After 56 Pledges Found Tortured
University of Iowa’s Alpha Delta Phi is under fire for an alleged hazing ritual that’s sparking outrage as 56 pledges found tortured. 🌐 #News #IowaCityIA #Iowa #Crime
IOWA CITY, IA – Late last week, Iowa authorities uncovered what they described as an alleged hazing ritual at the University of Iowa’s Alpha Delta Phi fraternity. The incident has prompted the university and the fraternity’s national organization to suspend the chapter while investigations are underway.
56 Pledges Found in Fraternity Basement During Alleged Hazing
The alleged hazing came to light when Iowa City police and university officers responded to a fire alarm at the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity house around 12:45 a.m. on Nov. 15. Inside, officers reportedly discovered 56 blindfolded pledges in the basement, some of whom had food thrown on them, according to a criminal complaint reported by the Iowa City Press-Citizen.
Following the discovery, the university’s Office of Student Accountability ordered the fraternity to immediately “suspend all operations” as officials investigate the allegations. The national Alpha Delta Phi organization also issued a suspension of the chapter.
Arrest Made During Police Response
During the response, police arrested 21-year-old Joseph Gaya, who was charged with interference with official acts. According to local reports, Gaya, who is not a University of Iowa student and does not live at the fraternity house, allegedly blocked officers from entering the basement where the pledges were located.
The complaint states Gaya stood in a doorway, refusing to move, and attempted to stop witnesses from speaking to police, telling them “not to talk to the police.” When asked to step aside, he reportedly refused and responded to one officer, saying, “You can (expletive) leave, how about that?”
It was also reported that two witnesses told Gaya they were “fine” and willing to speak with officers, but Gaya continued to interfere.
University and Fraternity Response
In a statement, the University of Iowa reaffirmed its commitment to student safety, saying, “The university is committed to protecting the health and safety of its students and will address any behavior that puts student safety at risk.” The Office of Student Accountability is now working through its discipline process for student organizations, which includes potential sanctions for hazing-related violations.
“As registered student organizations, fraternities are expected to uphold the values of the university, and their members are expected to comply with the Code of Student Life,” the statement continued. Students impacted by the alleged hazing have been offered counseling and additional resources.
The national Alpha Delta Phi organization has not issued further comments beyond confirming the suspension of its University of Iowa chapter.
The investigation into the hazing allegations remains ongoing. University officials emphasized that organizations failing to align with safety standards and university values will face consequences. This case highlights the importance of addressing hazing culture to ensure student organizations prioritize safety and respect.
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
