Fla. fraternity suspended for hazing

GAINESVILLE, Fla., July 3 (UPI) -- The president of a University of Florida fraternity chapter said he is "heartbroken" the organization was given a four-year suspension for hazing violations.

UF's chapter of Pi Kappa Phi was suspended amid accusations its members took part in dangerous hazing rituals in the fall of 2007, the Gainesville (Fla.) Sun reported Thursday.

Rituals included forcing pledges to consume massive amounts of alcohol and complete intense physical tasks, the newspaper said.

One ritual required a pledge to hold his arms above his head for so long he received serious nerve damage, a Greek Judicial Board report indicates.

"There were a significant series of hazing violations that occurred," said Mary Kay Carodine, senior associate dean of students. "There was knowledge of the events throughout the house."

Lyle Long, UF senior and president of the fraternity when the hazing took place, said the Friday suspension left him "heartbroken" and the organization was planning to appeal for a shorter punishment.

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