MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Less than five hours after Morgantown police released information on charges against 7 fraternity members, West Virginia University released a statement confirming the Office of Student Conduct was already sorting through facts in the investigation.
The members of Phi Gamma Delta, all 18 to 21 years old, were charged with disorderly conduct after Morgantown police were called to a reported kidnapping.
Investigators discovered what they’ve called a fraternity initiation prank.
Christopher Grace, 21, of Arlington, Virginia was found Wednesday at about 11:30 a.m. bound with duct tape. Investigators say the victim and fraternity members showed minor injuries from an altercation. And, according to police, Grace was being shoved in the trunk of a car.
“We’re very disappointed that this incident occurred,” Dr. Bill Schafer, WVU Vice President of Student Life, told MetroNews affiliate WAJR.
By the end of the week, Schafer said he expected interim sanctions from the university against the Phi Gamma Delta members.
Meanwhile, the university’s newly hired associate dean of students and director of Greek Life, Roy Baker, was in contact with the national chapter of Phi Gamma Delta.
“They’re flying in Monday to meet with this chapter to discuss what occurred and what actions the national office may be taking,” Schafer explained.
The following men face disorderly conduct charges in Wednesday’s incident.
Luke Russillo, 18, of Smyrna, Delaware
Joseph Russillo, 18, of Smyrna, Delaware
Chadwick Miller, 18, of Sewell, New Jersey
Matthew Kinker, 19, of Crystal Lake, Illinois
Tyler Audette, 18, of Massapequa, New York
Austin Harpin, 21, of Feeding Hills, Massachusetts
Cody Heffelinger, 18, of Coopersburg, Pennsylvania
Schafer was quick to note, they represent a very small population of WVU students.
“Let’s not let this one incident by a few young men represent the entire student body at WVU. We have amazing students here. There’s been really good progress this fall on changing the culture. And, I believe we will see more positive things come out as the year goes on.”
Part of the change of culture included schedule changes at the annual Fall Fest event. There were no serious charges to come from that first weekend prior to classes on campus this fall.