AUSTIN — The Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity has filed a lawsuit against its former University of Texas chapter citing "health and safety violations and systemic cultural issues" that are incongruent with its mission and values.
SAE said it suspended the Texas Rho Chapter of SAE at UT on Nov. 6, 2017, immediately revoking its license to use the SAE registered marks and insignia. Despite this, SAE claims the chapter proceeded to operate as a "rogue organization," continuing to illegally use SAE's marks and insignia, including its letters, colors and crest.
As such, SAE said this has caused confusion among students at the university, their parents and the community, causing "irreparable harm" to the organization.
The Texas Rho Chapter is accused of trademark infringement, trademark dilution and unfair competition.
According to a previous KVUE report, SAE staff said they received a report of a hazing incident through their anonymous toll-free hotline, which prompted them to begin an investigation into the incident. That investigation found members were not following health and safety protocol.
KVUE has reached out to the Texas Interfraternity Council and Dean of Students for a statement. This story will be updated if received.
See the lawsuit below:
Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit by kvuenews on Scribd