CANTON – Several students from Zeta Alpha Phi fraternity have been expelled or suspended and the fraternity was permanently banned in the wake of hazing allegations, according to SUNY Canton college officials.

In a letter to staff, officials said they made the decision to permanently ban Zeta Alpha Phi fraternity as a college-sanctioned organization and the fraternity will not be permitted to recruit new members or operate in any way as a recognized club or organization at SUNY Canton.

According to WWNY-TV, one student was allegedly branded with the letter Z with a hot coat hanger while another student was repeatedly struck with a paddle, causing severe bruising on the buttocks.

Two students were expelled from the college, two students were placed on a six-year suspension from the college, and three students were placed on a five-year suspension from the college.

Due to Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regulations, names of students will not be released, Dean of Students Courtney Bish said.

"I am disgusted and appalled by the alleged actions of some of the members of Zeta Alpha Phi," SUNY Canton acting president Joseph C. Hoffman said after the allegations were revealed last week.

The sanctions were issued in accordance with the college’s zero-tolerance policy on physical violence, bullying and hazing; and the college will continue to cooperate with Canton Village Police during their investigation of any criminal allegations resulting from this incident, the letter said.

Bish said, “We did not make these decisions lightly. We are very cognizant of the storied history of Zeta Alpha Phi and the wonderful connections and memories many of our alumni have for this organization. We also firmly believe in taking an educational response to disciplinary action where possible, and using a situation as (a) learning moment.”

The college says it intends to make incoming students and parents aware going forward each year, beginning in the Spring 2014 semester, that Zeta Alpha Phi is not a recognized organization and that they will take strong disciplinary action against any students claiming any form of affiliation with the fraternity.

The college is asking to be notified if anyone becomes aware of future campus activity related to Zeta Alpha Phi.