Virginia Commonwealth University will pay roughly $1 million to the family of a young man who died as a result of a fraternity hazing event in 2021.
The family agreement mandates the University of Richmond to make substantial modifications to its fraternity and sorority life. The Fairfax County Circuit Court approved the agreement.
According to a joint statement from the family and the university, this is a plan to establish a safer and healthier environment for students who are members of fraternities and sororities, as well as to create an atmosphere of respect and inclusiveness that is required for academic achievement.
According to a police investigation, the 19-year-old who earned a bid to the Delta Chi fraternity was instructed to consume a huge bottle of whiskey in February 2021. The next morning, the freshman from Loudoun County was discovered dead. The chief medical examiner's office determined that the death was caused by alcohol poisoning. Delta Chi will be dismissed from VCU in June 2021.
He was a cherished son, grandchild, nephew, cousin, student, and friend. He had a bright future ahead of him, and his senseless death caused unfathomable anguish and sadness for everyone who knew him.
Aside from the $995,000 monetary settlement, the deal requires VCU students to complete 12 credit hours as well as other qualifying conditions before joining a fraternity or sorority. It would also prevent alcohol from being offered or consumed at any fraternity or sorority activity attended by new members, as well as tighten the restrictions for alcohol supplied or consumed at student organization gatherings.
VCU will begin the process of erecting a physical memorial to the dead on campus, and the 27th of February will be designated as an annual hazing prevention day and day of remembrance for him. The settlement also includes a duty to submit information regarding student groups that are deemed to be in violation of the code of conduct.
Delta Chi faced disciplinary actions for the last seven years on campus. According to sources, some former members of the fraternity pled guilty or were found guilty of misdemeanor hazing or misdemeanor supplying alcohol to a child in connection with the case. No one has been imprisoned as yet.
