University of Chicago Responds to Alleged Assault at Fraternity Party

Police are investigating a report of a sexual assault involving a woman during a fraternity party at the University of Chicago. A man, identified as a person of interest, has been banned from the campus. University officials stated the individual is not a student or affiliated with the university.

The university publicly shared information about the incident and encouraged individuals with relevant information to come forward. A 21-year-old woman reported that she was sexually assaulted by a male while at a residence on the 5600 block of S. University Avenue. Chicago police confirmed that the victim sought medical treatment at University of Chicago Hospital. No arrests have been made, and Area One Detectives are leading the investigation.

This incident raises concerns amid discussions surrounding a separate case at Cornell University. At Cornell, allegations involved a woman reportedly drugged and raped by seven fraternity members. Although disciplinary action was taken by the university, no criminal charges have been filed. Governor Kathy Hochul appointed Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor on October 1.

Regarding the University of Chicago case, officials assured the community that they prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals and confirmed that the woman involved is not a student. The investigation by the Chicago Police Department is ongoing, and no charges have been filed yet. University policy violations are also under review.

The Chicago Sun-Times reported that two friends intervened during the alleged assault in the fraternity house’s bathroom, and witnesses outside the bathroom were reportedly encouraging the incident. Although the full police report was not available for this article, the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity stated that none of its members were involved. They reportedly assisted the victim and chased the alleged assailant out.

At Cornell University, fraternity social events have been suspended for the rest of the academic year following recent allegations. President Michael Kotlikoff emphasized that the university must ensure women’s safety on campus and announced a zero-tolerance policy for policy violations. Fraternities organizing in-house parties could face emergency suspension.