University of Maine

Hazing · Sigma Chi

During an April 17, 2010 initiation ritual, a Sigma Chi candidate was sent to search for a non-existent white cross near the Stillwater River and became lost, prompting an eight-hour search by 11 public safety agencies; the university also found candidates were made to do chores, dress differently and were isolated from social contact during an 'Introspection Week.'

Status: Chapter found responsible for hazing by the university; no criminal charges reported.

Response: UMaine placed the chapter on disciplinary probation through May 2011, barred it from its chapter house until at least September 2010 and required it to overhaul its pledge education program.

College staff misconduct · Accused: former associate head men's basketball coach

Years of abuse: 2009

The associate head men's basketball coach was charged after an incident outside a Bangor-area nightclub in May 2009 involving unwanted sexual contact with a 21-year-old woman and an assault on a UMaine student who intervened.

Status: Charged with unlawful sexual contact and assault; pleaded no contest to misdemeanor assault and was fined $600; the unlawful sexual touching charge was dismissed under the plea agreement.

Response: Placed on paid administrative leave; resigned in May 2009.