Madison Police Arrested Two in Fraternity Hazing
Officers removed 30 men from an unaccredited fraternity basement during a welfare check on Wednesday.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Sex Crimes
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Madison police arrested two 20-year-old men on charges related to hazing and disorderly conduct at an unrecognized fraternity. Authorities evacuated 30 men from a basement on Langdon Street after receiving an anonymous tip.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding unrecognized Greek life organizations operating independently of university oversight. The conditions discovered in the house raise serious safety questions regarding the treatment of participants in unauthorized fraternity activities.
Brayden Klein and Samuel Vane are currently being held at the Dane County Jail following their arrests. Law enforcement continues to investigate the specific charges filed against the pair.
The players
Madison Police Department
The Madison Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for public safety and criminal investigations within the city of Madison.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a major public research institution that previously revoked accreditation for the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity over a decade ago.
Brayden Klein
Brayden Klein is a 20-year-old suspect arrested by police in connection with the hazing and disorderly conduct incident.
Samuel Vane
Samuel Vane is a 20-year-old suspect arrested by police in connection with the hazing and disorderly conduct incident.
The details
Police responded to the 100 block of Langdon Street at 8:20 p.m. on Wednesday after an anonymous report. Upon arrival, officers found 30 partially clothed men in a basement where temperatures reached 81 degrees, with some individuals showing signs of physical injury.
Timeline
Police responded to the Langdon Street fraternity house at 8:20 p.m. on September 23, 2026.
Legal Context
This incident underscores the difficulty of regulating underground Greek life that persists despite official university disavowals. The arrests follow a pattern of local efforts to curb unauthorized fraternity activities that operate outside standard institutional safety protocols.
Residents and students should remain aware of potential safety risks associated with unrecognized housing facilities in the Langdon Street area. Those with additional information regarding this activity are encouraged to contact the Madison Area Crime Stoppers at 608-266-6014.
The takeaway
Unrecognized organizations often lack the safety oversight and accountability measures required for student groups. Parents and students are encouraged to verify the accreditation status of any fraternity or sorority before participating in recruitment activities.
Further reading
For more information on local enforcement trends, visit the Sex Crimes section.
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