Police probe alleged hazing after dozens of men found covered in food at Wisconsin fraternity

Madison police are investigating a suspected hazing incident after roughly 30 partially clothed men were found covered in food, condiments and other liquids in the basement of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity house near the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. The men, described as pledges, showed signs of physical assault, according to investigators.

Police entered the fraternity house on Wednesday night following an anonymous tip and arrested two 20-year-old members on tentative misdemeanor charges of hazing and disorderly conduct. No formal charges had been filed as of Friday morning.

The university announced it is conducting its own investigation and emphasized its commitment to preventing hazing. It warned that any student who violates law or university policy could face sanctions ranging from a written reprimand to expulsion.

A police-released photo shows about two dozen shirtless men in the basement, which was set to 81 degrees and described as hot and humid, with black-painted walls and debris on the floor. Most of the individuals were reported to be 18 years old.

Alpha Epsilon Pi’s recognition as a student organization on the Madison campus was terminated in 2015 after multiple prior incidents involving alcohol and hazing. The fraternity remains affiliated with its national organization and can operate as an unaffiliated chapter.

Jon Pierce, spokesperson for the national fraternity, said the allegations are being taken “very seriously” and that the organization will cooperate fully with investigations. He added that any member found to have participated will be expelled, stating, “Hazing is a betrayal of everything our fraternity stands for. There is no place for it in AEPi. No exceptions. No excuses.”

The university’s Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards is also reviewing the case under its non-academic misconduct process, while the police investigation continues.