University of Chicago Bans Man from Campus Amid Sexual Assault Investigation

A man has been prohibited from entering the University of Chicago’s campus following allegations that a woman was sexually assaulted during a fraternity party. The incident occurred early Sunday and has prompted an active investigation by the Chicago Police Department.

Authorities identified a person of interest who is neither a student nor affiliated with the university. On Tuesday, university officials confirmed that this person has been banned. The university also released a public notice, urging anyone with information on the incident to come forward.

The victim, a 21-year-old woman, reported that she was assaulted inside a residence on the 5600 block of S. University. She independently sought treatment at the University of Chicago Hospital, according to a statement from the Chicago police. No arrests have been made, and Area One Detectives are leading the investigation.

This allegation at the University of Chicago occurs against the backdrop of a debated high-profile case at Cornell University. There, a woman accused seven fraternity members of drugging and raping her in 2024. Protests have erupted, and New York Governor Kathy Hochul appointed Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor after the case led to disciplinary actions but no criminal charges. As of October 15, the accused men have denied the allegations, and no charges have been filed.

At the University of Chicago, officials emphasized the priority of safety and well-being for everyone in the community. They stated they could not disclose the name of the person of interest due to the ongoing investigation.

The Chicago Sun-Times reported that, according to police documents, two friends intervened during the alleged assault at a fraternity house belonging to Alpha Epsilon Pi (AEPi). Witnesses described seeing men outside the bathroom who appeared to be encouraging the assault inside.

The AEPi fraternity chapter stated that they are unaware of any affiliation of their members with the alleged assailant. They clarified that fraternity members helped the victim and expelled the alleged attacker from the building. A statement from the fraternity expressed their unequivocal condemnation of violence and affirmed their cooperation with the authorities.

Meanwhile, Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff has suspended all social events at fraternity houses for the remainder of the academic year. He acknowledged concerns about women’s safety on campus and emphasized a commitment to action. Violations will result in immediate suspension, reinforcing a zero-tolerance policy.