Shocking police footage shows 56 blindfolded young men in a fraternity basement at the University of Iowa.
Officers arrived on November 15, 2024, after reports of a fire. No flames were found, but the basement was filled with shirtless men covered in unknown substances.
One officer told the men: “This is the police department. This stops here. Who is in charge?” He then ordered them to remove their blindfolds.
The incident was later confirmed as hazing at Alpha Delta Phi. The dangerous initiation ritual had left the men in poor conditions and posed serious safety risks.
Joseph Gaya, 22, was arrested for interfering with official acts. Police footage shows him arguing with officers while vaping, insisting the substances were “just water,” and claiming his record was clean.
Gaya later had his charges dropped about a year after the incident. He thanked his attorneys for resolving the case and said he wanted to focus on the future.
The University of Iowa suspended Alpha Delta Phi in May 2025. The ban is expected to last until 2029. The university said it is committed to student safety and will take action against prohibited behaviors like hazing.
Authorities continue to emphasize that hazing is illegal in Iowa and that student organizations must follow strict safety and conduct rules.
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