Wisconsin police investigate fraternity for hazing after men found covered in food in basement

Police in Wisconsin are investigating a fraternity for suspected illegal hazing after about 30 partially clothed young men, described as pledges, were found covered in food, condiments and other liquids in the basement of a fraternity house near the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus.

Madison police said some of the men showed signs of having been physically assaulted, and the pledges were found in a heated basement of the property.

Investigation underway

The discovery has prompted an investigation into suspected illegal hazing practices at the fraternity, with police examining the circumstances that led to the pledges being found in that condition.

Hazing investigations of this kind typically examine whether fraternity members organized or directed activities that put pledges at risk, and whether any criminal conduct occurred during the alleged hazing.

No further details have been released regarding the identities of those involved or potential charges, as the police investigation into the incident continues.

The case adds to a broader pattern of scrutiny facing Greek life organizations over hazing practices, with universities and law enforcement in various parts of the country periodically investigating similar allegations involving fraternity pledges.