Fraternities at DePauw often receive noise complaints and citations on a regular basis throughout the school year. Early on this semester, however, fraternities have not only been issued verbal warnings about noise during the weekends, but many have called Public Safety to report theft of stolen property. On August 29, Phi Kappa Psi Fratnerity called to report stolen property. Fortunately, the stolen object was recovered and returned to its rightful owner.
Typically students attempt to steal items such fraternity paddles, flags, composites and trophies. Most of this activity is just for the fun and excitement students get from participating in mischief.
“Personally, I really don't like it when strangers, or people I know, come into our house and steal something,” said sophomore Henry Erzinger. “Whether it's something important to our house or not, I still take offense to it.”
DePauw is dominated by greek culture and there is tension between certain chapters. As a result, fraternities often try to create chaos and pull pranks on each other. Many guests, including sorority women, have also been known to commit theft.
“Many sororities get pretty into their competitions and stuff, but the guys don't really care that much about it,” said sophomore Payton Dunning.
Although men care about their personal belongings, they tend to be optimistic about the trickery.
“If it's not intramural basketball, we don't really notice,” said sophomore Justin Barnes.
To the majority of students at DePauw, a greek house represents a place where people gather to listen to music, play drinking games and hang out with great friends. However, it is also a place where students live.
“It's our home and a piece of not only us, but others who have lived here in the past,” said Erzinger.
Men living in fraternity houses realize they are likely to lose a belonging at some point.
“Living in [Sigma Chi] truly affects the value of my property,” said Dunning. “You kind of have to be prepared to lose anything you own.”
Director of Public Safety Angela Nally was unavailable for comment.