Cayla Bush /Staff Writer
Cayla.Bush@fiusm.com
Kellie Fullilove had a .50 blood alcohol count and cocaine in her system at the time of her death, according to toxicology reports obtained by the Miami Herald.
Fullilove was enrolled in the Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences and earned her associate of arts and science degree from Florida Gulf Coast University.
The nursing student, who was found dead November 15 after attending an off-campus event hosted by Phi Gamma Delta, had been texting one of the fraternity brothers about purchasing the drug, according to the Miami Herald.
“If you like going skiing your going to love fiji lmao,” read a text message using a euphemism for the drug that was sent to Fullilove from the phone of fraternity brother Sean Velazquez. “We practically supply fiu.”
The Miami Herald reports that Velazquez’s defense attorney denies that the messages were “authorized or sanctioned” by the student.
Fullilove attended the FIJI Formal with Velazquez on Nov. 14, the night before her death.
The Fort Lauderdale Police Department’s investigation into Fullilove’s death concluded without criminal charges being filed. At press time, Student Media’s request for the police report has not been returned.
“The chapter has received a copy of the police report. Phi Gamma Delta does not condone illicit drug use or possession, underage drinking or other illegal behavior by members or guests,” Shayan Shams, president of the University’s Phi Gamma Delta chapter, said to Student Media. “Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Ms. Fullilove’s family.”
The fraternity, also known as FIJI, was placed on interim suspension following Fullilove’s death pending the now-closed police investigation, according to a statement by University Media Relations sent to Student Media.
“While Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) was on interim suspension, the University conducted an investigation. Based on that investigation, the fraternity was charged with violating the campus life alcohol policy by providing a bottle of champagne to some FIJI members attending the off-campus formal,” the statement said. “On January 25, 2016, FIJI was found responsible and placed on conduct probation until December 31, 2016, social probation until August 21, 2016.”
The fraternity is required to complete a risk management workshop and is not allowed to organize any social events until after Aug. 22, 2016, according to the statement. The University is also reviewing the police report to determine if there is cause for Student Conduct hearings.
Cathy Akens, dean of students, would not comment on the Student Conduct investigations leading up to the suspension of the fraternity outside of the statement from University Media Relations.
Student Media has made attempts to contact the president of the Interfraternity Council, of which FIJI is a member, and Associate Director of Campus Life Christianne Medrano, who oversees the Interfraternity Council. At press time, neither request was returned.
Student Media will update this story as more information becomes available.
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