USC fraternity activities halted following more sexual assault, drugging allegations

All Greek life activities on USC campus canceled amid drugging allegations

All social activities are suspended indefinitely.

LOS ANGELES - University of Southern California officials have halted all campus fraternity activities following reports of alleged sexual assault and drugging at parties.

Students protested outside the Sigma Nu fraternity house Thursday after it was placed on interim suspension, which means the fraternity cannot host or organize any events, and no social gatherings can take place at the house.

The USC Interfraternity Council announced a halt to all social activists at campus fraternities after more allegations of drugging at other frat parties surfaced.

"I personally think that is very warranted," said USC student Abygail Paez. "It's really not appropriate for anything to be happening while cases are growing."

The University’s Department of Public Service says it will enforce the Interfraternity Council’s Safety Notification, which prohibits fraternities from hosting on-campus social activities indefinitely.

According to records from the campus police department, at least five students have reported having their drinks drugged at the Sigma Nu house and another student reported being drugged at a different fraternity party dating back to Sept. 27.

"I’m kind of glad this is being brought up now because I know it’s something that has been going on," said USC student Alicia Liera.

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The LAPD has also confirmed Sigma Nu USC Chapter President Ryan Schiffilea as the suspect in a sexual assault investigation reported at the fraternity house earlier this month.

A statement from the Sigma Nu Fraternity released Saturday reads in part:

"One of the matters currently under investigation involves an allegation of sexual assault against an individual student member. That individual’s fraternity membership was suspended immediately by our chapter and by the National fraternity, pending the completion of applicable investigations and procedures."

USC encourages anyone with information about alleged assaults to call the school's Department of Public Safety at 213-740-6000 for the University Park Campus. For the Health Sciences Campus, call 323-442-1000. For the LAPD Southwest Division, the number to call is 213-485-6571.

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