University Police Services has completed its investigation into Sigma Nu and the death of Ryan Abele.

“The series of events related to this death do not support probable cause for any felony or gross misdemeanor crime pursuant to NRS 200.700 and NRS 200.605,” University Police Chief Adam Garcia said. “It is important to point out that the standard of proof required for a criminal charge is much higher than that required for an administrative action, such as the imposition of ‘loss of recognition.’”

The results of the police investigation do not impact the decision by the University to suspend the recognition of the Sigma Nu Delta Xi Chapter for 15 years. The University came to this resolution following a student conduct investigation completed by The Office of Student Conduct that was initiated Monday, Oct. 17, 2016 after learning one of Sigma Nu’s pledge candidates sustained an injury at the fraternity house. The Office of Student Conduct does not investigate criminal violations and has no jurisdiction to do so. Student Conduct investigates violations of the Student Code of Conduct.

The “loss of recognition” is based on violations prohibited by the University Student Code of Conduct, the 2016 Relationship Agreement for the Recognition for Social Fraternities and Sororities, and the University of Nevada, Reno Residence Based Alcohol Policy.

“Loss of recognition” means the fraternity will not be afforded the rights, privileges and resources available to them under the relationship agreement.

The University received communication from the chapter related to the 10-day deadline given to it through the written informal resolution on Dec. 19, 2016. The Office of Student Conduct has scheduled a meeting with the chapter for Friday, Jan. 13, 2017. At the meeting, the assistant dean of student conduct will discuss the charges of misconduct, review the hearing type and hearing process, under the procedure stated in the Student Code of Conduct, Section IV. B. 5, schedule a hearing date, and discuss any additional information.