Dozens of pledges found covered in food in sweltering frat basement as police investigate alleged hazing

The Madison Police Department said officers were dispatched to the house around 8:20 p.m. Wednesday. They found a basement thermostat set to 81 degrees, which created hot, humid conditions for the group crammed inside. According to police, most of those found were 18 years old.

Officers declared the gathering unlawful and escorted everyone outside. Police are now investigating the incident as alleged hazing.

For the young men involved, most of them barely out of high school, the night meant getting pulled from a basement and questioned by police instead of settling into a new fraternity. The case adds to a national pattern of hazing investigations tied to Greek life, where anonymous tips have repeatedly led police to scenes authorities describe in stark terms once they arrive.