Dane County DA drops hazing charges against two Madison men

Madison police officers responded to a report of a hazing event on Langdon Street in the fall of 2026. The Dane County District Attorney’s Office has decided not to file charges against two men arrested in connection with that incident.

Police arrived at the residence at approximately 8:20 p.m. on Sept. 23 after receiving an anonymous tip. Officers found roughly 30 men in the basement of the home. The men were partially clothed and covered in food, condiments, and other liquids.

Madison police stated that the vast majority of the men present were 18 years old. Several individuals displayed visible injuries consistent with physical assault. The room’s thermostat was set to 81 degrees, creating hot and humid conditions for the group.

Officers declared the event unlawful and cleared the residence. The fraternity’s president and vice president spoke to police on the scene. Police arrested the two leaders and transported them to the Dane County Jail for charges of hazing and disorderly conduct.

According to WMTV-TV, the district attorney’s office reviewed the evidence and concluded it was not sufficient to prove the criminal charges beyond a reasonable doubt. FOX6 News requested further details from the office but had not received a response as of the report date.

Madison police noted that Alpha Epsilon Pi is an unrecognized and unaccredited student organization. The University of Wisconsin terminated the group more than a decade ago.

In a statement released Monday, Alpha Epsilon Pi said it is working with chapter members to review the incident against its guidelines and state laws. The organization called the event a teachable moment for the young men involved. The fraternity announced a corrective actions plan that includes replacing chapter leadership and limiting programming while it improves operations.