CU Boulder Suspends Phi Kappa Sigma Chapter After 'Extreme' Hazing Allegations; Investigation Underway

The University of Colorado Boulder has placed its Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity chapter on interim suspension after receiving a "credible report" of hazing, immediately halting all chapter activities while campus and national officials investigate.

What Happened

According to the university, the initial allegation was received on Dec. 1 and formally logged with campus officials on Dec. 2. Since that first report, CU Boulder says it has received at least two additional anonymous tips alleging "extreme or severe hazing." The university has not released further specifics about the alleged conduct while the inquiry is active.

Investigation and Next Steps

The chapter will remain suspended for the duration of the investigation. CU Boulder officials say the credible report prompted the interim suspension and that the school has informed and is working with Phi Kappa Sigma’s national organization.

"I want to make it clear that the university has received one credible report of hazing involving Phi Kappa Sigma, which has prompted the interim suspension," a CU Boulder spokesperson said. "We are seeking information about any instances of hazing involving CU Boulder students and are asking people to report information to Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution."

Privacy laws limit what the university can disclose about ongoing cases, but officials emphasized that all allegations are taken seriously and will be investigated "to the fullest extent possible." Hazing is prohibited under Colorado state law and CU Boulder policy.

Law Enforcement And Fraternity Response

Boulder Police said the department has no substantiated hazing reports in the city tied to this specific matter. The department noted that since August it has handled three hazing reports involving CU Boulder fraternities on University Hill; those incidents were either closed or determined to be unfounded after investigation. Boulder Police encouraged anyone with information about potential criminal activity to call 303-441-3333.

Phi Kappa Sigma’s national headquarters released a statement saying it will cooperate with the university’s inquiry and reiterated that the organization "does not tolerate hazing or hazing-like behaviors" and will work to eradicate such conduct from the Greek system.

How To Report And Support

CU Boulder is urging anyone with information about hazing—whether related to Phi Kappa Sigma or any other campus-affiliated group—to report it via Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution, the Safe2Tell tip line, or Metro Denver Crime Stoppers. The university’s campus alerts page will carry future updates.

The safety alert also reminded students to recognize signs of hazing, including coercion, unsafe or degrading activities, or tasks presented as mandatory for joining a group, and to intervene only when it is safe to do so.