The University Police Department shut down a philanthropic dodgeball tournament at UF's Norman Field on Saturday after underage drinking arrests involving participants were made in the neighboring parking garage.
Phi Delta Theta Fraternity and Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority hosted the Ultimate Dodgeball Philanthropy, which was held to raise money for Lou Gehrig's disease through donations and team registration fees.
Lt. Pam Bonner of UPD said the event was shut down because it presented an issue of public safety.
As of Sunday night, Bonner said she was unsure how many arrests were made.
But according to Phi Delta Theta Fraternity's philanthropy chairman Alex Akar, at least 15 people were arrested for underage drinking in Norman Garage.
"We were out there raising money," Akar said. "And that is more important than a few kids slamming down beers in the parking garage next door."
Bonner refused comment on any fundraising that may have been inhibited by the early shutdown.
Bonner said the fundraiser came to a halt after an officer, who was conducting security checks on Sorority Row, noticed numerous vehicles parked illegally around the field.
Byron Oldham, president of Phi Delta Theta, said the tournament kicked off at 10 a.m.
After hearing that a few students in the garage had been arrested around noon, Oldham said he began spreading the word to participants on the field that police were patrolling the garage.
Chairman Alex Akar said UPD threatened to shut down the event around 12:15 p.m.
When both hosting organizations offered to hire more security to prevent the shutdown, UPD would not allow it, he said.
Akar said two bouncers were on duty during the event to ensure no one entered the field with alcohol.
Akar said the event was expected to raise more than $10,000, adding they may now fall short of the goal.
Jamie Dollinger, president of the Panhellenic Council, said no decisions have been made about sanctions regarding either organization.
