The Ohio State chapter of the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity is under investigation following allegations a member sexually assaulted a minor on Oct. 17.
The university is looking into claims that a 16-year-old female was assaulted in the chapter’s house at 141 E. 15th Ave. According to a university official, the complaint was forwarded to Franklin County Children Services.
Because the house is located in the off-campus area, the Columbus Division of Police should be handling the case. When reached for comment, however, Sgt. David Clark of the Sexual Assault Squad said he was unaware of any report filed with his department.
The president of the OSU chapter, Sean Taylor, is reluctant to draw conclusions until the chapter conducts an internal investigation.
“If something did happen, it is important for us to find out, but we don’t want to make accusations when as far as we’re concerned, this is hearsay,” Taylor said. “I’m really hoping this is all part of the big Greek rumor mill.”
The office for Phi Kappa Tau in Oxford, Ohio, is concerned about the allegations.
“Right now, our chapter at Ohio State is working with executive office staff and with alumni advisors in the area to respond to the Oct. 17 report,” said Jeff Baird, spokesman for Phi Kappa Tau’s executive office. “The chapter is investigating what happened and will decide what, if anything, it needs to do in response. Our structures are such that experienced and concerned alumni will help the chapter make a good decision.”
