NC State's Sigma Nu brothers could face charges. Here's how NC law treats hazing
The doors to an NC State University fraternity will remain closed amid an ongoing probe into serious hazing allegations within the organization, university officials and the national organization said this week. But whether fraternity leaders can be criminally charged hinges on North Carolina’s hazing law — a statute that some experts say contains a more narrow definition in comparison to other states. NC State’s Sigma Nu fraternity has been the target of a weeklong investigation into its alleged hazing of new members, with graphic videos and anonymous reports describing pledges enduring physical abuse, pressured drug use, threats and multiple hospitalizations, according to recent search warrants. In a statement to The News & Observer on Friday afternoon, Wake County District Attorney Lorrin Freeman declined to comment on what specific charges the state could consider against Sigma Nu members, but said officials would “follow the evidence wherever it leads in considering what charges are appropriate.” “State law prohibits activities that are defined as hazing,” Freeman wrote in a message. “Abuse under any circumstances is not to be tolerated. It takes courage for victims to speak out. We take protecting our young people seriously and are committed to a thorough investigation and any
