Hunter
05/13/25
A University of Iowa fraternity has been suspended for four years after an alleged hazing incident involving dozens of students.
The Press-Citizen reports the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity was placed on interim suspension in November after police were called to the fraternity house for a fire alarm and discovered 56 pledges blindfolded, shirtless, and with “food thrown on them.” Court records indicate as many as 20 to 30 young men were covered with ketchup, mustard and alcohol.
After the university investigated the incident, they suspended the fraternity until at least July 1, 2029.
The national Alpha Delta Phi office appealed the interim suspension, saying their investigation determined the November incident was the sole responsibility of two frat brothers. However, the University’s Office of Accountability and Care said the information gathered by their office disagreed with the national office’s conclusion.
The national Alpha Delta Phi fraternity told the Press-Citizen they were disappointed in the suspension of its UI chapter, calling it “severe disciplinary action.” They said the incident was fully investigated by local law enforcement and no criminal charges were filed.
One person was arrested the night of the incident; 21-year-old Joseph Gaya of Riverside was charged with Interference with Official Acts after allegedly stepping between officers and the pledges and refusing to move. He also reportedly interrupted conversations between police and two frat members.
Gaya is set for trial on July 15th.