Fraternity at Fresno State suspended for hazing

A fraternity has been suspended at Fresno State for hazing activity.

Alpha Gamma Rho, a fraternity for agriculture students, has been placed on suspension for two years for hazing and serving alcohol to minors last school year.

The university first investigated the fraternity in March in response to complaints about property damage with the use of firearms. The investigation found that the fraternity hazed students during recruitment and initiation in spring 2015.

During the suspension, the chapter loses all privileges associated with recognition as a student organization at Fresno State.

Terms of the suspension could be reviewed next semester if the fraternity develops a plan to curb hazing and completes other requirements, according to Fresno State officials.

“It’s unfortunate when we have to suspend or expel any group for inappropriate actions, but it is our responsibility to protect our students from harm,” Frank Lamas, vice president for student affairs at Fresno State, said in a statement. “Greek life enhances the college experience when chapters live by their founding principles and philanthropic actions for greater good.”

The national Alpha Gamma Rho office, based in Missouri, released a statement Friday saying that hazing within the fraternity is “near zero” due to strict anti-pledging rules, and that Fresno State’s punishment does not fit the crime.

“We are supporting the chapter throughout this time, and believe the sanctions being placed on the chapter by Fresno State are disproportionate in relation to the facts,” said the statement, sent by Grant Bargfrede, director of chapter advancement. “It is the contention of Alpha Gamma Rho that the university did not complete their investigation and findings consistent with appropriate due process.”

In 2012, a Fresno State fraternity pledge died as a result of binge drinking during a Theta Chi event.

After student Philip Dhanens, 18, died, Theta Chi revoked the chapter’s charter at Fresno State.

This story was originally published September 18, 2015 at 2:43 PM with the headline "Fraternity at Fresno State suspended for hazing."