Last week, allegations were brought against a member of our fraternity, junior Ryan Packer, and he was subsequently suspended by the University.
While these events have left his friends and family confused and upset, what has been even more disturbing is the number of students who have already handed down their own guilty verdicts.
Those who know Ryan well know him as a dedicated athlete and respected member of the Duke community, and certainly not as someone that fits the profile of the accusations.
As Ryan's brothers, we would unequivocally vouch for his character and are confident that the ensuing legal proceedings will conclusively demonstrate his innocence, and we ask that his fellow students lend him support in these difficult times.
With the Duke lacrosse incident still in recent memory, it would be a shame to see the Duke community cast yet another student into the shadow of infamy before he has appeared in court and the exonerating evidence has been presented.
The Brothers of Alpha Tau Omega
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