Lions Prevention

Description of Hazing Incident(s)

Following an investigation in which Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. cooperated and acknowledged responsibility for hazing, the University found sufficient evidence to support that Kappa Alpha Psi engaged in the following hazing behaviors:

• Physical abuse and punishment: New members were subjected to strenuous physical exercises as punishment when they made mistakes. These exercises were described as "intense" and often occurred at inappropriate times, including arriving late to meetings or disrespecting other members.
• Physical violence with objects: Multiple new members were struck with wooden objects and paddles during meetings and other fraternity activities. These physical punishments occurred regularly and were used as a form of discipline within the organization.
• Psychological intimidation and threats: The fraternity used psychological tactics to instill fear and prevent new members from reporting hazing incidents to University Safety or law enforcement. These tactics included showing films depicting fraternity hazing and its consequences as an intimidation tool.
• Verbal and mental abuse: New members were subjected to verbal altercations and forced to endure being called derogatory names. Members were subjected to psychological pressure and mental abuse as part of the membership process.
• Forced compliance and servitude: New members were required to perform various acts of servitude and compliance, including being threatened with removal from locations and forced transportation where they would face additional punishment from multiple fraternity members.
• Alcohol-related violations: Evidence indicated that alcohol consumption was involved in hazing activities, with reports that some members consumed alcohol before engaging in physical punishment of new members. 
• Group punishment: When one new member made a mistake, the entire group of new members was punished, creating additional psychological pressure and group dynamics that facilitated continued hazing.

The investigation involved interviews with multiple students, including new members and witnesses who described incidents consistent with hazing. All individuals interviewed provided testimony that corroborated the systematic nature of the reported activities.

The investigation revealed a pattern of systematic hazing that included physical violence, psychological intimidation, and the creation of an environment where new members felt they had no choice but to endure abuse. Multiple fraternity members were identified as participating in these hazing activities.

Law enforcement was contacted during the investigation, and arrests were made in connection with these incidents. Local law enforcement agencies were involved, and official police reports were filed. The incidents occurred both on campus in various university buildings and facilities, as well as off campus locations.

• SLU27 - University Suspension: The Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. colony at Saint Leo University is officially separated from the University for five (5) academic years effective March 31, 2025.
• The organization loses its official recognition from the University and access to all University services and facilities during the suspension period.
• The organization must immediately cease all organizational activities, including meetings, events, and social media presence.
• After the suspension period ends, the organization is eligible to return only if both the 
  University and the national fraternity agree to its return and status.
• If allowed to return, the organization will need to reapply for recognition through Saint
  Leo University's established process.