University of Chicago Bans Man Amid Sexual Assault Investigation

A man has been prohibited from entering the University of Chicago’s campus following reports of a woman being sexually assaulted at a fraternity gathering on Sunday. School authorities have identified a person of interest in this investigation. This individual has no formal ties to the institution.

The university released an update on Tuesday, stating, “The university banned him from campus.” Following the incident, the university urged those with information to come forward and assist in identifying the suspect. Police detailed that a 21-year-old woman reported she was assaulted inside a residence located on the 5600 block of S. University. The woman later went to the University of Chicago Hospital for treatment. Investigators from Area One are handling the case, and no arrests have been made.

This incident arises during a broader dialogue about sexual assault on college campuses. A prominent case at Cornell University involved allegations against fraternity members, with no subsequent criminal charges. The matter prompted protests and intervention by Governor Kathy Hochul, who appointed Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor. The men involved have denied any wrongdoing.

The University of Chicago clarified that the alleged victim is not a student. A statement expressed the university’s concern for the community’s safety. The school mentioned that the Chicago Police Department (CPD) leads the ongoing investigation, and they cannot release the name of the person of interest. The university will also evaluate any breaches of its policies.

According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the police report notes that two friends intervened during the assault at the Alpha Epsilon Pi (AEPi) fraternity house. Witnesses described others outside the bathroom as “cheering” during the incident. AEPi stated that no member was involved in the assault. They also assisted the woman and expelled the alleged attacker from the premises. AEPi emphasized in a statement, “we condemn this violence unequivocally,” and is cooperating with police investigations.

After the Cornell incident, Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff announced the suspension of all social events at fraternity houses for the current academic year. He highlighted concerns over women’s safety on campus and stressed “zero tolerance” for any violations. Fraternities holding unauthorized events will face suspension.