Three Vanderbilt University police officers have been placed on paid administrative leave, pending the outcome of an internal investigation of how an incident at the National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternity house last weekend was handled.
Officers responded to a report of a disruption at the house near Greek Row early Sunday morning. Upon arriving, the officers entered the house, drawing weapons, handcuffing several students and their off-campus friends and holding them outside in cold weather. August Washington, chief of the Vanderbilt University Police Department, immediately ordered an internal investigation.
“We greatly value the safety and sense of community that our officers bring to campus,” said Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos. “However, it is imperative when weapons are drawn and students are held in this manner, that we ensure our procedures and protocols for such actions are clear, that all on our campus understand those procedures and that the overall safety and community of our campus is one that we believe meets the unique demands of a college campus where we live and work together. The security and well-being of our students is always our paramount concern.”
Officers found evidence of extensive vandalism at the house, and an investigation is under way to determine the cause. Repairs to the house already have begun and will be expedited so the structure can be used as soon as possible.
“This is an important gathering place for NPHC members, as well as a historic residence,” said Richard McCarty, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. “Our housing office will oversee the necessary repairs so that the building can be reopened to our students.”
Media contact: Beth Fortune, (615) 322-NEWS