NYU Suspends ZBT Fraternity Over Sexual Assault, Hazing, Antisemitism Allegations Exposed on Instagram

NYU Suspends ZBT Fraternity Amid Sexual Assault, Hazing, and Antisemitism Investigation

New York University has placed its Zeta Beta Tau chapter on interim suspension while administrators investigate allegations that surfaced through a wave of social media posts. NYU's Zeta Beta Tau fraternity chapter was suspended as sexual assault and hazing allegations were exposed on Instagram.

Anonymous Account Sparks Investigation Into Fraternity

An Instagram account called "The ZBT Files" began circulating photographs, videos, and screenshots of group chats last month, allegedly showing ZBT members engaged in sexual assault and hazing rituals. The account, run by a former chapter member who requested anonymity out of fear of retaliation, has shared more than 90 pieces of evidence and amassed over 10,700 followers.

NYU spokesperson Joseph Tirella confirmed the university is examining the chapter for serious violations of student conduct and non-discrimination policies. While the investigation continues, the fraternity has been ordered to halt all recruitment, events, and operations.

Allegations Of Sexual Assault At Parties

Testimonies from at least four anonymous women describe incidents at ZBT-hosted parties. One account alleges a member attempted to assault a woman's friend and that she was removed from the party after resisting. A separate group chat screenshot reportedly shows members discussing plans to repeat similar conduct against a freshman before a 2026 event.

The account's creator said they initially reported the incident to NYU's Office of Student Conduct, but described the response as dismissive, claiming the office told them to "disengage" if they were unhappy with the fraternity's environment.

Hazing Rituals Documented In Photos

Images shared online depict members lying face-down with their hands restrained behind their backs, described as the chapter's most common hazing practice. Other alleged rituals include taping alcohol bottles to members' hands until emptied and forcing a reportedly lactose-intolerant pledge to consume a gallon of milk.

NYU has been required since 2024 to publish an annual report detailing hazing violations among student organizations. The university's Kappa Sigma chapter was recently suspended through August 1 for similar policy breaches, and its Alpha Kappa Psi chapter faced suspension last year.

Antisemitism Allegations Add To Scrutiny

The anonymous account also accuses the chapter of antisemitic conduct, pointing to a presentation reportedly created for a club meeting that included statements claiming Jewish people "worked hard like whites" and "commit genocide (sometimes)." Another slide allegedly featured imagery resembling Ku Klux Klan robes and a Confederate battle flag.

ZBT was founded as a Jewish fraternity in 1903, and its NYU chapter is described as the organization's oldest active branch.

Past Controversy At Another Chapter

The fraternity's national organization has faced similar scrutiny before. In 2018, Cornell University placed its ZBT chapter on a two-year probation after determining members held a contest tied to sexual conquests, though the fraternity's own investigation later disputed the findings, and Cornell acknowledged it had misrepresented its conclusions.

Max Kaplan, who led NYU's ZBT chapter at the time, had called for Cornell's chapter to be removed entirely, telling reporters that respecting women was a top priority for his organization.

NYU's investigation into the current allegations remains ongoing.

The factual information above was sourced from nyunews.com as of June 15, 2026.

The attorney commentary below is not specifically about the case reported above. Attorney commentary provided is information about these types of cases in the justice system.

Understanding Your Rights as Victims of University Hazing

Many students may be left wondering what legal recourse is available to those affected by similar situations on college campuses. To better understand the broader legal landscape facing victims of sexual harassment and hazing within fraternity organizations, NY sexual abuse lawyer Thomas Giuffra discussed the options available to students, the responsibilities universities may hold, and what steps survivors can take if they believe they have a case.

What legal options do students generally have if they experienced sexual harassment or assault at a fraternity event?

Students who experience sexual harassment or assault may be able to pursue civil claims against the individuals involved, as well as against the fraternity chapter or its national organization, depending on the circumstances. A civil suit is separate from any criminal process and focuses on holding responsible parties accountable and securing compensation for the harm caused.

Can a university be held responsible if it was previously notified of misconduct and failed to act?

Institutions that receive reports of misconduct and fail to respond appropriately may face liability under certain circumstances. Whether a university can be held accountable often depends on what it knew, when it knew it, and what steps it took or failed to take in response.

Are hazing incidents treated differently from other forms of misconduct under New York law?

Hazing can carry both civil and potential criminal implications in New York, particularly when it involves forced consumption of alcohol or conduct that endangers a student's health or safety. Survivors should know that hazing-related harm may itself form the basis of a legal claim, separate from any other misconduct that occurred.

What should a student do first if they believe they have a potential case?

Anyone who believes they may have a claim should document what happened as soon as possible, preserve any communications, photos or messages, and consult with an attorney to understand the relevant deadlines and options. Speaking with a lawyer does not commit someone to filing a lawsuit, but it helps clarify what protections and remedies may be available.

Free Consultation Available For Affected Students And Families

Students and families navigating the aftermath of harassment, assault, or hazing don't have to figure out their next steps alone. Giuffra's office offers free, confidential consultations for those who want to better understand their rights and options moving forward. Reaching out doesn't commit anyone to legal action — it simply opens the door to information and guidance from someone experienced in these cases.