Five students are suing Syracuse University for disciplinary actions related to videos of a private event where fraternity members used racial slurs and simulated a sexual assault of a disabled person.
The federal lawsuit filed anonymously Tuesday by five Theta Tau members accuses the university of ignoring their rights and proper procedures in suspending them and subjecting them to "ridicule and scorn." It seeks at least $1 million in damages for each student and restoration of their good academic standing.
After the student newspaper revealed videos last week, the university expelled the fraternity, and 18 unidentified members face disciplinary charges. The lawsuit says the videos show a satirical "roast" that wasn't for public viewing.
A spokeswoman says the university doesn't comment on pending litigation but stands by its actions.
