A recently surfaced 1991 lawsuit obtained by the Associated Press alleges that actor Jon Hamm was involved in a violent fraternity hazing incident, which included setting a pledge on fire.
The incident took place in November 1990 at the University of Texas-Austin, where Hamm was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity.
According to the lawsuit, Hamm became enraged when the new pledge, identified as Mark Allen Sanders, was unable to recite what he was supposed to memorize.
Sanders claims that Hamm hit him and forcefully pushed his face into the ground.
In his own words, Sanders stated, “He rears back and hits me left-handed, and he hit me right over my right kidney, I mean square over it.
Good solid hit and that, that stood me right up.”
Although Hamm was not yet famous at the time, the case received significant media attention.
A 1991 article in the San Antonio Light identified Hamm as Jonathan Hamm from St. Louis.
The article reported that Sanders was subjected to beatings with a paddle and broom, as well as being led around the frat house with the claw of a hammer beneath his genitals.
Sanders also alleged that Hamm set his pants on fire.
In 1993, an arrest warrant was issued for Hamm and several other fraternity members.
Hamm was charged with hazing and received probation as a result.
University records indicate that Hamm left school during the same semester as the hazing incident.
Although the actor has previously stated that he dropped out following his father’s death in 1991, the AP reports suggest that he left due to the alleged hazing.
PEOPLE’s request for comment from Hamm’s representatives has gone unanswered thus far.
