University of Iowa Fraternity Suspended After Hazing Incident

Disturbing video shows 56 pledges blindfolded and covered in condiments in fraternity basement

Feb. 20, 2026 at 9:55pm

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The University of Iowa has suspended the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity until 2029 after a disturbing video surfaced showing an alleged hazing incident at the fraternity house in November 2024. The footage reveals 56 male pledges blindfolded in the fraternity's basement, with first responders later finding them covered in ketchup, mustard, and alcohol.

Why it matters

Hazing incidents at fraternities and sororities have been an ongoing issue on college campuses, often leading to suspensions, criminal charges, and even deaths in extreme cases. This case highlights the need for stronger oversight and enforcement to prevent such dangerous activities from occurring.

The details

According to the University of Iowa Campus Police, officers were called to the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity house in November 2024 for a fire alarm. When they arrived, they found the 56 male pledges blindfolded in the basement. 21-year-old Joseph Gaya was arrested for trying to block the officers' view of the incident, although the charges were later dropped. The University's Office of Student Accountability investigated the matter, leading to Alpha Delta Phi's suspension on February 25, 2025, lasting until at least July 1, 2029.

  • In November 2024, the alleged hazing incident occurred at the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity house.
  • On February 25, 2025, the University of Iowa suspended the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity until at least July 1, 2029.

The players

Alpha Delta Phi

A fraternity at the University of Iowa that was suspended until 2029 following an alleged hazing incident.

Joseph Gaya

A 21-year-old who was arrested for trying to block officers' view of the hazing incident, although the charges were later dropped.

University of Iowa Campus Police

The police department that responded to the fire alarm at the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity house and discovered the alleged hazing incident.

University of Iowa Office of Student Accountability

The office that investigated the hazing incident, leading to the fraternity's suspension.

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What they’re saying

“Hazing has no place on our campus, and we will not tolerate this kind of behavior from any student organization.”

— Anita Archer, Vice President of Student Affairs, University of Iowa

What’s next

The University of Iowa has stated that it will continue to monitor the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity and will not consider lifting the suspension until the organization can demonstrate a commitment to addressing the underlying issues that led to the hazing incident.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of addressing hazing in college fraternities and the need for universities to take strong disciplinary action to protect student safety and uphold their values. It also underscores the importance of fostering a campus culture that rejects such dangerous and unethical practices.