The University of Houston released the following statement in response to actions taken today by a Harris County grand jury against the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity:
“In October, the University of Houston took administrative action to suspend the UH chapter of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity for activities that violate the University hazing policy, which is consistent with the Texas Education Code. For the last several months, the UH Police Department has coordinated with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office in investigating these activities, which revealed violations that occurred off campus. Today we are grateful that our county partners have delivered a stern message through the grand jury’s decision against the fraternity, that such behavior, which jeopardizes the well being of our students, will not be tolerated.
“Our University takes pride in the camaraderie and well-rounded experience of our students, and for many that includes participating in fraternity and sorority life. We take seriously our responsibility to train our fraternities and sororities to adhere to University policy and laws against hazing and the need to conduct themselves in a safe manner.”
Background: UH placed the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity under interim suspension on July 21 until completion of an administrative investigation. The current suspension expires in Oct. 2023.Hazing is defined in Sec. 3.16 of the UH Student Code of Conduct, consistent with Sec. 37.151 of the Texas Education Code.
The Harris County District Attorney's statement can be found here: http://app.dao.hctx.net/news_releases