Baylor University has suspended all of Phi Delta Theta’s organizational activities until a full investigation of an incident involving the fraternity’s president has been completed.
On March 3, Baylor’s Phi Delta Theta president and Garland junior Jacob Anderson was arrested and charged with sexual assault after a female was assaulted at a party on February 21. He was later released on bond.
The fraternity declined an interview about the investigation, but did release a statement to the Baylor Lariat saying that the fraternity was made aware of the situation and that they are cooperating with law enforcement.
Baylor Panhellenic also released a statement to all sororities on campus urging Greek life members not to speak to the media regarding the incident, but to direct any questions from the media to Lori Fogleman, the vice president for media relations and crisis communications at Baylor University.
In a university statement, Baylor’s role in the investigation is explained.
“The University recognizes the seriousness of these situations and acknowledges the role that the criminal system has in these cases,” the email read. “The Baylor and Waco Police Departments have established a positive relationship that supports communication and helps them work cooperatively where there are parallel investigations of this nature.”
“Addressing and preventing sexual violence, in addition to other unlawful activity, in our campus community is a top priority for the University, and we will continue to focus on solutions and support for those affected,” the statement said.
Baylor’s Division of Student Life and Title IX Office is working closely with Phi Delta Theta to investigate the matter.
Baylor IFC vice president of activities, Kevin Blouse, could not be reached for comment.
Baylor University has recently hired Pepper Hamilton Law firm to investigate previous sexual assault cases at Baylor and provide future recommendation for the handling of similar cases.
Baylor’s Title IX office now requires all Baylor students and faculty to attend Title IX training in order to attempt to combat sexual assault. The implementation of this training was approved by the Board of Regents in February.
