More being learned about reasons behind UW-Madison band suspension

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Parents of University of Wisconsin-Madison Marching Band members got letters that described why the band is suspended from its activities.

Dean of Students Lori Berquam listed four accusations – sexual fondling, and pressing fellow band members to drink alcohol, eat something disgusting and have unflattering haircuts.

The letter also said students were placed in unsafe and humiliating situations.

The parents were asked to talk with their youngsters and encourage them to cooperate in an investigation.

Berquam would not elaborate on the accusations which were first described as hazing.

She also refused to confirm they happened on the band’s recent trip to the Badger football game at Michigan.

Director Mike Leckrone said the problems only involved a few of the 300 band members but everyone has a shared responsibility to behave.

The band did not play at last Saturday night’s Wisconsin home contest against Ohio State, the first time in at least 40 years they were kept off the field.

And while the band rehearses for this Saturday’s home game against Penn State, there’s been no word whether they’ll actually perform.

Berquam says the investigation is continuing.

One parent said the band has an initiation each fall, but his son saw no evidence of forced drinking or sexual harassment.

The UW band was put on probation two years ago for hazing, sexual talk and semi-nude dancing on a trip to Michigan.

Tags: wisconsin news, uw madison marching band, suspension