By Tessa Roy, WPRO News

Salve Regina University said it launched an investigation on Friday immediately after a parent notified them of hazing allegations in the school’s football program.

Spokesperson Kristine Hendrickson said the allegations “cover a range of potential conduct cases” and that the investigation is “a little more complex.”

“That’s why we’re launching the investigation and making sure that we address all of the potential conduct cases that were alleged in the notification,” she said.

The University has a “zero tolerance” hazing policy outlined in its athletic handbook, where it defines hazing as “any action or activity which does not contribute to the positive development of a person; which inflicts or intends to cause physical or mental harm or anxieties; which may demean, degrade, or disgrace any person participating or witnessing the event regardless of location, intent or consent of the participants.” The handbook says students found in violation of the school’s policy may be referred to the state for prosecution and that anyone involved in hazing will face disciplinary action.

In this case, Hendrickson said it’s too early in the investigation to know what polices will apply or be implemented.

“Once we’ve conducted our investigation then we will be taking a look at what policies need to be applied. As with anything of this nature, the university obviously wants to make sure that we do our due diligence. We want to take the matter seriously,” she said.

Hendrickson said football activities are now being supervised by professional student affairs staff.