SIGMA ALPHA MU CHAPTER FINED $50,000

Daniel McCarthy, Manley Burke

The Sigma Alpha Mu Chapter at the University of Delaware was recently fined $50,000 by a judge for hazing.  The Chapter was charged with hazing, a misdemeanor, following the 2008 death of Brett Griffin from alcohol poisoning.  After the Delaware Attorney General’s office charged the chapter with hazing, the Chapter failed to respond or appear at the arraignment.

Following their investigation, the police arrested 6 members of the chapter for providing alcohol to a minor, possession of alcohol by a minor, and possession of drug paraphernalia, among other charges.  Mr. Griffin’s family has also filed a civil suit, which is still pending.

In a prepared release, Sigma Alpha Mu stated, in part:

“Sigma Alpha Mu has clear policies prohibiting hazing and underage drinking, and it is the obligation of each chapter and its members to abide by these polices, the rules of the university and the law.  Upon learning of the November tragedy, Sigma Alpha Mu immediately suspended the operation of the local chapter. The local chapter remains under suspension pending the completion of the investigation undertaken by the police and the filing of criminal charges.  Any violations of Sigma Alpha Mu’s policies by the local chapter or its members may lead to disciplinary action, including permanent suspension of the local chapter and expulsion of its members.”