On Saturday, August 22, a party was held at an NJIT affiliated fraternity house. The Dean of Students Office previously had communicated with all fraternities and sororities that gatherings of any sort would not be permitted due to the impact they may have on the health and welfare of the university community through the spread of COVID-19. The Dean of Students Office and NJIT Police investigated the circumstances of the gathering and determined the following penalties would be assessed.
A summons was issued to the president of the fraternity for violation of an emergency order of the State of New Jersey. Please note that violations of the emergency orders constitute a disorderly persons offense carrying a potential sentence of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. However, violators can face criminal charges including second, third, and fourth degree indictable offenses.
Three summonses were issued to the organizer of the party for playing loud music, disturbances and disorderly house. Please note the violation of these ordinances is punishable by a fine not exceeding $200 dollars or by imprisonment for a term not exceeding 90 days, or both for each offense.
The party organizer has been placed on suspension by NJIT.
The fraternity organization has been suspended by NJIT for a period of 1 semester and cannot recruit or hold any social activities.
NJIT will not tolerate violations of policies related to gatherings during this health emergency. Individuals found in violation will receive significant penalties, up to and including criminal charges and expulsion from the university. We will use all resources available to us to safeguard the health and safety of the broader NJIT community. Cooperation by all members of the Highlander family is mandatory.
