Parties suspended at UC Berkeley fraternities, sororities after spate of sex assaults

BERKELEY, Calif. (KGO) -- The Cal Bears host the Oregon Ducks football team Friday night. But win or lose there will not be partying at any of the fraternities or sororities.

The Greek system is cracking down on wild parties, while police investigate allegations of sexual assault.

RELATED: 2 UC Berkeley students report being sexually assaulted

Typically, before a big football game the University of California, Berkeley's Greek row on Piedmont Avenue is packed with parties. But on game day Friday, it was quiet.

The student-run Interfraternity Council has called for a ban on all Greek social events following allegations of sexual assaults in fraternity houses.

Two women reported being attacked last weekend. In a Facebook post, the president called the incidents "vile."

He writes: "We wish to reiterate our pledge to eliminate sexual violence from our community and reaffirm our commitment to our members and students of Berkeley to provide a safe environment for all."

The IFC is suspending fraternity and sorority parties while members reevaluate their risk management practices.

"That's not fair. That's my opinion," said UC Berkeley student Shakari Jackson.

Students are split on this approach. Some say partying is part of college life, and ban or not, students will still find a way to drink alcohol.

"The students need an outlet of having a party to go to, or whatever," Jackson said.

Others are frustrated with the amount of crime alerts they get. Melanie Pittman is encouraged to see students leading the charge to make a change.

"There have been too many sexual assaults, too many rapes. I understand it. I don't think it will last long term. I'd be amazed if they could actually enforce it for a full weekend to be honest," Pitman said.

There have been 61 reported sex assaults throughout the city of Berkeley including the university area in just the past six months. Campus police won't enforce this party ban since it's voluntary and not a law.