Texas Hazing Lawyers: Protecting Students & Families from Fraternity & Sorority Abuse in Houston, College Station, Austin & Across Texas
When Tradition Crosses the Line: The Reality of Hazing in Texas
The phone rings at 3 AM. Your college-aged child is on the line, voice shaking. They’re calling from a fraternity house near the University of Houston campus, where they’ve just endured what was supposed to be a “pledge event.” Instead of bonding, they were forced to drink until they vomited, then ordered to do push-ups in the vomit-soaked grass. Their new “big brother” sprayed them in the face with a garden hose while others laughed and filmed on their phones. Now they’re in pain, disoriented, and terrified to call 911 because “the chapter will get in trouble.”
This isn’t a Hollywood movie. This is happening right now at Texas universities—including the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor. And it’s not just fraternities. Sororities, Corps programs, athletic teams, and even spirit groups engage in hazing that goes far beyond “harmless tradition.”
If you’re a parent in Texas, you need to know:
- What hazing actually looks like in 2025 (it’s not just paddling—it’s psychological torture, forced drinking, and digital humiliation)
- How Texas law protects your child (and why “consent” is no defense)
- What’s been happening at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor (including recent lawsuits and suspensions)
- How to recognize the warning signs before it’s too late
- What legal options exist if your child has been harmed
At The Manginello Law Firm (Attorney911), we’ve seen firsthand how hazing destroys lives. We’re currently representing Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after brutal hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. This $10 million lawsuit isn’t just about one student—it’s about holding institutions accountable and protecting Texas families from preventable tragedy.
IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES
If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:
- Call 911 for medical emergencies
- Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
- We provide immediate help—that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™
In the first 48 hours:
✅ Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they’re “fine”
✅ Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
- Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
- Photograph injuries from multiple angles
- Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
✅ Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
✅ Do NOT: - Confront the fraternity/sorority
- Sign anything from the university or insurance company
- Post details on public social media
- Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence
Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:
- Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses)
- Universities move quickly to control the narrative
- We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights
- Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation
Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like (It’s Not What You Think)
The Modern Hazing Playbook: From Tradition to Trauma
Hazing isn’t what it used to be. While physical beatings still occur, today’s hazing is more sophisticated, more psychological, and more dangerous. It’s designed to fly under the radar while inflicting maximum harm.
The Three Tiers of Hazing (2025 Edition):
Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (The Foundation of Abuse)
These behaviors seem “harmless” but create the power imbalance that enables escalation:
- 24/7 digital control: Pledges must respond instantly to group chats at all hours—failure means punishment or expulsion
- “Pledge fanny packs”: Required to carry humiliating items (condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices) at all times
- Forced servitude: Acting as designated drivers, running errands, cleaning rooms for older members
- Social isolation: Cut off from non-Greek friends, required to get permission to socialize
- “Optional” activities: Framed as voluntary but with implicit threats of social exclusion
Real Texas example: In the recent University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi case, pledges were required to carry a “pledge fanny pack” containing degrading items 24/7. Noncompliance meant threats of punishment or expulsion.
Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (The Abuse Escalates)
These behaviors cause emotional and physical discomfort:
- Sleep deprivation: Late-night “meetings,” 3 AM wake-up calls, multi-day events with minimal sleep
- Forced consumption: Milk, hot dogs, peppercorns—often until vomiting occurs
- Public humiliation: Forced to perform degrading acts in public or on social media
- Extreme physical activity: Hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse, “smokings”
- Digital humiliation: Forced TikTok challenges, Instagram story dares, meme culture hazing
Real Texas example: At Texas A&M, Sigma Alpha Epsilon pledges were forced to consume industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries.
Tier 3: Violent Hazing (The Danger Zone)
These behaviors cause serious injury or death:
- Forced alcohol consumption: Handles of hard liquor, “lineup” drinking games, “Bible study” drinking rituals
- Physical beatings: Paddling, punching, kicking—often with wooden paddles
- Dangerous physical tests: Blindfolded tackle rituals, “glass ceiling” challenges, forced fights
- Sexualized hazing: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, degrading positions
- Extreme environment exposure: Locked in freezing rooms, left outside in extreme heat/cold
- Kidnapping/restraint: Blindfolded transport, hog-tying, “roasted pig” positions
Real Texas example: In the Leonel Bermudez case at UH, pledges were:
- Forced to do 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single workout
- Sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding” and threatened with actual waterboarding
- Forced to lie in vomit-soaked grass
- Hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in their mouth for over an hour
Where Hazing Actually Happens in Texas
Hazing isn’t limited to fraternities. It occurs in:
- Fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
- Corps of Cadets programs (Texas A&M’s military-style training)
- Athletic teams (football, baseball, cheerleading)
- Spirit organizations (marching bands, tradition clubs)
- Service organizations (some service fraternities)
- Academic groups (honor societies, professional fraternities)
The Off-Campus Shift:
To avoid detection, many hazing events now occur:
- At off-campus houses (not owned by the university or fraternity)
- In Airbnbs or rented properties
- At remote retreats (like the Pi Delta Psi case in Pennsylvania)
- In hotel rooms during away games or events
The Digital Hazing Revolution
Modern hazing extends far beyond physical locations. Digital hazing includes:
- Group chat control: Pledges must respond within minutes at all hours
- Geo-tracking: Required to share live location via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
- Social media policing: Controlling what pledges can post; forcing them to like/share org content
- Digital humiliation: Forced TikTok challenges, Instagram story dares, meme culture hazing
- Cyberstalking: Harassing pledges who don’t comply with demands
Why This Matters for Texas Families:
Digital evidence is now the #1 source of proof in hazing cases. Group chats, texts, and social media posts often contain admissions, planning, and documentation of hazing activities. But this evidence disappears fast—deleted messages, coached witnesses, and destroyed phones are common.
Texas Hazing Law: What Families Need to Know
Texas Education Code § 37.151: The Legal Definition of Hazing
Texas law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:
- Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
- Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.
Key points:
- Can happen on or off campus (location doesn’t matter)
- Can be mental or physical harm
- “Consent” is not a defense (even if the victim agreed)
- Intent to haze is not required—reckless conduct is enough
Criminal Penalties: When Hazing Becomes a Crime
Texas law classifies hazing as:
- Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
- Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes injury requiring medical treatment
- State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death
Additional criminal exposure:
- Furnishing alcohol to minors
- Assault, battery, or manslaughter
- Obstruction of justice (covering up hazing)
- Witness tampering
Good Samaritan Protections:
Texas law provides limited immunity for individuals who:
- Report hazing in good faith
- Call for medical help in an emergency
Civil Liability: Holding Institutions Accountable
While criminal cases punish individuals, civil lawsuits hold organizations accountable and provide compensation to victims and families.
Who can be sued in a civil hazing case?
- Individual students who planned or carried out the hazing
- Local chapter (the fraternity/sorority itself)
- National fraternity/sorority (headquarters that set policies and receive dues)
- University or governing board (for negligent supervision or deliberate indifference)
- Third parties (landlords, event organizers, alcohol providers)
Common civil claims:
- Negligence (failure to prevent foreseeable harm)
- Gross negligence (reckless disregard for safety)
- Wrongful death (if hazing results in death)
- Negligent hiring/supervision (failure to vet or monitor members)
- Premises liability (unsafe conditions at event locations)
- Intentional infliction of emotional distress (extreme and outrageous conduct)
Federal Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, and Clery
Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
- Requires colleges receiving federal aid to:
- Report hazing incidents more transparently
- Strengthen hazing education and prevention
- Maintain public hazing data (phased in by 2026)
Title IX:
- When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered
- Universities must investigate and address such incidents
Clery Act:
- Requires reporting of certain crimes, including hazing incidents that involve assault or alcohol/drug violations
- Maintains public safety statistics that can reveal patterns
National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Families Can Learn
The Alcohol Poisoning Epidemic
The Pattern: Forced drinking during “Big/Little” nights, bid acceptance events, or “family tree” rituals.
The Cases:
-
Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
- What happened: 20-year-old pledge forced to consume nearly an entire bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night
- Outcome: Multiple criminal convictions; family reached $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
- Texas connection: Pi Kappa Alpha has active chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and other Texas schools
-
Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
- What happened: “Bible study” drinking game where pledges forced to drink for wrong answers; Gruver died with BAC of 0.495%
- Outcome: Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute); fraternity closed
- Texas connection: Phi Delta Theta has chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, and other Texas schools
-
Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
- What happened: Pledge given handle of hard liquor during “Big Brother Night”; died from acute alcohol poisoning
- Outcome: Multiple criminal charges; FSU temporarily suspended Greek life
- Texas connection: Pi Kappa Phi has chapters at UH, Texas A&M, and other Texas schools
-
David Bogenberger – Northern Illinois University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2012)
- What happened: Pledge died from alcohol poisoning during fraternity event
- Outcome: $14 million settlement awarded to family (split among 44 fraternity/sorority members present)
The Texas Reality:
These same patterns occur in Texas. In the recent UH Pi Kappa Phi case, pledges were forced to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, then ordered to do immediate sprints.
Physical & Ritualized Hazing
The Pattern: Dangerous physical rituals, often at off-campus retreats.
The Cases:
-
Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
- What happened: Pledge blindfolded, weighted down with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual; died from traumatic brain injury
- Outcome: Multiple criminal convictions; national fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
- Texas connection: Off-campus retreats are common in Texas Greek life
-
Texas A&M Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021)
- What happened: Pledges covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit; suffered severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
- Outcome: Lawsuit filed; fraternity suspended for two years
- Texas connection: This happened at Texas A&M—right here in Texas
Athletic Program Hazing
The Pattern: Hazing within athletic teams, often disguised as “team bonding.”
The Case:
- Northwestern University football (2023–2025)
- What happened: Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the football program
- Outcome: Multiple lawsuits against university; head coach fired and later settled wrongful-termination suit
- Texas connection: Texas universities with major athletic programs face similar risks
What These Cases Mean for Texas Families
- Alcohol remains the #1 killer in hazing incidents
- Delayed medical care dramatically increases liability (and harm)
- National organizations face significant exposure when chapters repeat known patterns
- Multi-million dollar settlements are possible when families pursue legal action
- Legislative change often follows tragedy—but only after families demand accountability
Texas Focus: Hazing at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU & Baylor
University of Houston: A Culture of Secrecy and Abuse
Campus & Culture Snapshot
- Large urban campus with active Greek life (40+ fraternities and sororities)
- Mix of commuter and residential students
- Recent growth in multicultural Greek organizations
- Texas (Earth > North America > United States > Texas) connection: UH is a top choice for Houston-area students, with many families in Texas (Earth > North America > United States > Texas) sending their children to UH
Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
- Hazing is prohibited whether on-campus or off-campus
- Prohibits forced consumption of alcohol/food/drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and mental distress
- Reporting channels through Dean of Students, conduct offices, and campus police
- Some disciplinary info posted on UH website
Recent Incidents & Responses
Leonel Bermudez – Pi Kappa Phi (Beta Nu) (2025)
- What happened: Bermudez, a transfer student, endured extreme physical hazing during fall 2025 pledge period:
- Forced to carry a “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms, a sex toy, and nicotine devices
- Enforced dress codes, hours-long “study/work” blocks, weekly interviews, overnight driving duties
- Extreme physical abuse:
- Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, “save-your-brother” drills
- Cold-weather exposure in underwear
- Lying in vomit-soaked grass
- Sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding” and threatened with actual waterboarding
- Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting, then repeated sprints
- The Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats, creed recitation under threat of expulsion
- Another pledge hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour
- Medical outcome: Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe skeletal muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure; passed brown urine, could not stand without help, hospitalized for four days
- Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, Beta Nu housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders
- Institutional response:
- Nov 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspends Beta Nu chapter
- Nov 14, 2025: Chapter members vote to surrender charter; chapter shut down
- UH labels conduct “deeply disturbing,” promises disciplinary measures and cooperation with law enforcement
Pi Kappa Alpha (2016)
- Pledges allegedly deprived of food, water, and sleep during multi-day event
- One student suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table
- Chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and university suspension
What UH Students & Parents Should Do
- Report hazing to UHPD (713-743-3333) or Dean of Students (713-743-5470)
- Document everything: Screenshot group chats, photograph injuries, save physical evidence
- Know your rights: UH cannot retaliate against students who report hazing
- Contact an attorney early: Evidence disappears fast; universities move quickly to control the narrative
Texas A&M University: Corps Traditions and Greek Life Hazing
Campus & Culture Snapshot
- Large public university with strong military and agricultural traditions
- Corps of Cadets program with military-style training and discipline
- Active Greek life with over 60 fraternities and sororities
- Texas (Earth > North America > United States > Texas) connection: Texas A&M is a top choice for Texas (Earth > North America > United States > Texas) families, with many students from the surrounding region
Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
- Hazing prohibited in all student organizations, including Corps of Cadets
- Reporting through Student Conduct Office, Corps regulations, or campus police
- Some disciplinary records publicly available
Recent Incidents & Responses
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021)
- What happened: Pledges forced to consume substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns
- Outcome: Pledges required emergency skin graft surgeries; fraternity suspended for two years; lawsuit filed
Corps of Cadets (2023)
- What happened: Cadet alleged degrading hazing including:
- Simulated sexual acts
- Being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” position with an apple in mouth
- Outcome: Lawsuit filed seeking over $1 million; A&M stated it handled the matter under Corps rules
Texas A&M Baseball (2020)
- What happened: 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
- Outcome: Suspensions staggered over early season; team finished with reduced roster
What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do
- For Greek life: Report to Student Conduct Office (979-845-3111)
- For Corps: Report through chain of command or to Corps Commandant
- Document injuries and evidence immediately
- Understand the difference: Corps hazing often involves military-style discipline, while Greek hazing focuses on initiation rituals
University of Texas at Austin: Public Records and Repeated Violations
Campus & Culture Snapshot
- Large public university with over 50,000 students
- Active Greek life with 60+ fraternities and sororities
- Strong tradition of spirit organizations and athletic programs
- Texas (Earth > North America > United States > Texas) connection: UT Austin is a top choice for Texas (Earth > North America > United States > Texas) families, with many students commuting from the surrounding region
Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
- Hazing prohibited in all student organizations
- Public hazing violations log available at hazing.utexas.edu
- Reporting through Student Conduct and Academic Integrity office
Recent Incidents & Responses (From Public Records)
Pi Kappa Alpha (2023)
- New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
- Found to be hazing; chapter placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education
Texas Wranglers (Spirit Organization) (2022)
- Forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, punishment-based practices
- Organization sanctioned and required to revise new member education
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024)
- Pledge hospitalized with alcohol poisoning from hazing
- Lawsuit included claims of negligent supervision; settled August 2024
What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do
- Check the public hazing log at hazing.utexas.edu for prior violations
- Report hazing to Student Conduct (512-471-2841) or UTPD (512-471-4441)
- Use the public records advantage: Prior violations can support civil lawsuits by showing patterns and knowledge
Southern Methodist University: Private University, Public Consequences
Campus & Culture Snapshot
- Private university with affluent student body
- Strong Greek life presence (25+ fraternities and sororities)
- Competitive athletic programs
- Texas (Earth > North America > United States > Texas) connection: SMU attracts students from across Texas, including many from the Dallas-Fort Worth region
Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
- Hazing prohibited in all student organizations
- Reporting through Student Conduct office or anonymous Real Response system
- Private university status affects transparency of disciplinary records
Recent Incidents & Responses
Kappa Alpha Order (2017)
- New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep
- Chapter suspended; restrictions on recruiting until 2021
SMU Baseball (2019)
- Allegations of hazing involving forced drinking and physical abuse
- Investigation resulted in discipline for several players
What SMU Students & Parents Should Do
- Report hazing to Student Conduct (214-768-4564) or use anonymous Real Response system
- Understand private university challenges: Discipline records may not be public, but civil lawsuits can compel discovery
- Document everything: Private universities often have more resources to fight claims
Baylor University: Religious Identity and Institutional Challenges
Campus & Culture Snapshot
- Private Christian university with Baptist affiliation
- Recent history of scrutiny over football and Title IX issues
- Active Greek life with 20+ fraternities and sororities
- Texas (Earth > North America > United States > Texas) connection: Baylor attracts students from across Texas, with many from the Waco and Central Texas region
Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
- Hazing prohibited in all student organizations
- Reporting through Student Conduct office or campus police
- Religious identity may affect how hazing is perceived and addressed
Recent Incidents & Responses
Baylor Baseball (2020)
- 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
- Suspensions staggered over early season; team finished with reduced roster
Baylor Football (2018)
- Allegations of hazing involving physical abuse and forced drinking
- Investigation resulted in discipline for several players
What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do
- Report hazing to Student Conduct (254-710-1715) or Baylor PD (254-710-2222)
- Understand institutional challenges: Baylor’s religious identity and prior scandals may affect how hazing is addressed
- Document everything: Civil lawsuits may be necessary to compel transparency
Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories and Texas Connections
Why National Histories Matter for Texas Families
Many fraternities and sororities at Texas universities are part of national organizations with headquarters that:
- Set policies and receive dues from chapters
- Provide risk management training (often after tragedies)
- Have histories of hazing incidents at chapters across the country
When a Texas chapter repeats the same script that got another chapter shut down or sued in another state, that shows foreseeability—a key legal concept in negligence cases.
Organization Mapping: Texas Chapters and National Hazing Histories
| Organization | Texas Chapters | National Hazing History | Texas Connection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ) | UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, TCU | Stone Foltz (BGSU) hazing death ($10M settlement), David Bogenberger (NIU) $14M settlement, multiple alcohol-related deaths | Recent UH lawsuit (Leonel Bermudez) shows same patterns |
| Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) | Texas A&M, UT Austin, Texas Tech, Baylor | Multiple hazing-related deaths, traumatic brain injury lawsuit at Alabama, chemical burns at Texas A&M | Texas A&M chemical burns case shows severe physical hazing |
| Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ) | Texas A&M, UT Austin, TCU | Max Gruver (LSU) hazing death (felony hazing law), multiple alcohol-related incidents | UT Austin alcohol poisoning case shows same pattern |
| Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ) | UH, Texas A&M, UT Arlington | Andrew Coffey (FSU) hazing death, multiple alcohol-related incidents | Recent UH lawsuit (Leonel Bermudez) shows extreme physical hazing |
| Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ) | Texas A&M, SMU, TCU | Multiple hazing suspensions, SMU chapter suspended for paddling and alcohol abuse | SMU suspension shows physical and alcohol hazing |
| Sigma Chi (ΣΧ) | UT Austin, Texas A&M, TCU | College of Charleston $10M+ settlement for severe hazing, UT Arlington alcohol poisoning case | UT Austin chapter has prior violations |
| Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ) | Texas A&M, UT Austin, TCU | Chad Meredith (University of Miami) $12.6M verdict, Texas A&M rhabdomyolysis case | Texas A&M case shows severe physical hazing |
How National Histories Support Texas Lawsuits
- Foreseeability: When a national organization has multiple hazing incidents, it shows they knew or should have known the risks.
- Pattern Evidence: Repeated incidents demonstrate a culture of hazing within the organization.
- Policy vs. Enforcement: National organizations often have anti-hazing policies but fail to enforce them meaningfully.
- Insurance Coverage: National organizations typically have insurance policies that may cover hazing incidents.
Real Texas Example:
In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, the national organization had:
- Prior hazing incidents at other chapters
- Anti-hazing policies that weren’t enforced
- Knowledge of the risks of forced drinking and physical abuse
- Insurance coverage that may be available for the lawsuit
Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy
The Evidence That Wins Hazing Cases
1. Digital Communications (The #1 Source of Proof)
- Group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack)
- Look for: planning, admissions, threats, humiliation
- Example: “Make them do 500 squats if they mess up”
- Direct messages (Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok)
- Look for: individual threats, personal admissions
- Social media posts (Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat stories)
- Look for: photos/videos of hazing events, humiliating content
- Deleted messages (can often be recovered with digital forensics)
2. Photos & Videos
- Injuries: Immediate and over time (bruises, burns, chemical reactions)
- Events: Hazing in progress (forced drinking, physical abuse)
- Locations: Where hazing occurred (houses, retreats, off-campus venues)
- Objects: Paddles, props, alcohol bottles used in hazing
3. Internal Organization Documents
- Pledge manuals (often contain initiation scripts)
- Ritual books (may describe “traditions”)
- Emails/texts from officers (planning, admissions)
- National policies (show what the organization knew or should have known)
4. University Records
- Prior conduct files (showing patterns and knowledge)
- Incident reports (campus police, student conduct)
- Clery reports (public safety statistics)
- Title IX complaints (if applicable)
5. Medical and Psychological Records
- Emergency room reports (documenting injuries)
- Hospitalization records (showing severity)
- Toxicology reports (alcohol/drug levels)
- Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
6. Witness Testimony
- Other pledges (often willing to testify once case is filed)
- Former members (may have quit due to hazing)
- Roommates/friends (noticed changes in behavior)
- RAs/coaches (may have seen warning signs)
Damages: What Families Can Recover
Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses)
- Medical expenses:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospitalization (ICU, surgeries)
- Medications and medical equipment
- Future medical care (therapy, rehabilitation)
- Lost income:
- Time off work for victim or parent
- Lost scholarships or academic opportunities
- Diminished future earning capacity (for permanent injuries)
- Other economic losses:
- Property damage (destroyed clothing, phones)
- Relocation costs (transferring schools)
Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Compensable)
- Physical pain and suffering (from injuries)
- Emotional distress (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
- Humiliation and embarrassment (from degrading acts)
- Loss of enjoyment of life (can’t participate in activities)
- Reputational harm (if hazing was publicized)
Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of financial support (if deceased would have supported family)
- Loss of companionship (parents, siblings, spouse)
- Emotional harm to family members
Punitive Damages (When Available)
- Awarded to punish defendants for especially reckless or malicious conduct
- Can be significant in cases with prior warnings or cover-ups
Legal Strategy: How Experienced Hazing Attorneys Win
1. Immediate Evidence Preservation
- Send preservation letters to universities, fraternities, and individuals
- Obtain restraining orders to prevent evidence destruction
- Work with digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages
2. Identifying All Liable Parties
- Individual students who planned or carried out hazing
- Local chapter (the fraternity/sorority itself)
- National organization (headquarters that set policies)
- University (for negligent supervision)
- Third parties (landlords, event organizers)
3. Overcoming Common Defenses
| Defense | How Plaintiffs Overcome It |
|---|---|
| “The pledge consented” | Consent is not a defense under Texas law; power imbalance invalidates “consent” |
| “This was a rogue chapter” | Show national organization knew or should have known about prior incidents |
| “It happened off-campus” | Location doesn’t eliminate liability for sponsorship or control |
| “We have anti-hazing policies” | Show policies were not meaningfully enforced |
| “This was an accident” | Show the harm was foreseeable based on prior incidents |
| “The university has immunity” | Argue exceptions for gross negligence or deliberate indifference |
4. Insurance Coverage Fights
- National fraternities and universities often have insurance policies
- Insurers may argue hazing is excluded as “intentional conduct”
- Experienced attorneys:
- Identify all potential coverage sources
- Navigate disputes about exclusions
- Force insurers to defend the case
5. Settlement vs. Trial
- Most cases settle confidentially
- Trials are rare but can result in larger verdicts and public accountability
- Settlement funds can be used for:
- Medical care
- Educational continuity
- Legacy and advocacy (creating foundations in victim’s name)
Practical Guides: What to Do If Hazing Has Affected Your Family
For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing
Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed
- Physical signs:
- Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
- Extreme fatigue or exhaustion
- Weight loss or gain (from food/water restriction)
- Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
- Signs of alcohol poisoning or drug use
- Behavioral changes:
- Sudden secrecy about fraternity/sorority activities
- Withdrawal from family and old friends
- Personality changes (anxiety, depression, irritability)
- Defensive when asked about the organization
- Talking about “just having to get through this”
- Academic red flags:
- Grades dropping suddenly
- Missing classes or falling asleep in class
- Skipping exams or assignments
- Financial red flags:
- Unexpected large expenses (forced purchases, “fines”)
- Buying excessive alcohol or items for older members
- Overdrafts or maxed credit cards
- Digital behavior:
- Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
- Anxiety when phone buzzes
- Deleting messages or clearing browser history
- Geo-location tracking apps newly installed
Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally)
- “How are things going with [fraternity/sorority]? Are you enjoying it?”
- “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
- “What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
- “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
- “Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
- “Do you feel like you can leave if you want to, or would there be consequences?”
- “Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”
What to Do If You Suspect Hazing
- Immediate safety:
- If your child is in physical danger, call 911 or campus police
- Get them medical attention immediately
- Document everything:
- Write down what your child tells you (dates, times, details)
- Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs
- Photograph injuries (immediately and over time)
- Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
- Report to authorities:
- Campus police or city police (depending on location)
- Dean of Students or Student Conduct office
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous)
- Preserve evidence:
- Do NOT let your child delete messages or “clean up”
- Do NOT confront the fraternity/sorority directly
- Do NOT sign anything from the university or insurance company
- Contact an attorney:
- Evidence disappears fast (deleted messages, coached witnesses)
- Universities move quickly to control the narrative
- We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights
- Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation
48-Hour Action Checklist for Parents
Hour 1–6 (Immediate Crisis):
✅ Medical: If injured or intoxicated, get to ER immediately
✅ Safety: Remove child from dangerous situation
✅ Evidence: Screenshot any messages they show you; photograph visible injuries
✅ Notes: Write down everything they tell you (date, time, what happened, who was there)
✅ Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance
Hour 6–24 (Evidence Preservation):
✅ Digital: Help child preserve all group chats, DMs, texts (do NOT delete anything)
✅ Physical: Secure clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
✅ Medical records: Request copies of all ER/hospital records
✅ Witnesses: Write down names and contact info for other pledges, bystanders
✅ University: Note any communications from school (emails, calls, meetings) but do NOT respond yet
Hour 24–48 (Strategic Decisions):
✅ Legal consultation: Speak with experienced hazing attorney
✅ Reporting decision: Decide whether to report to campus police, local police, Dean of Students
✅ University response: If school contacts you, refer them to your attorney
✅ Insurance: Do NOT talk to any insurance adjuster without lawyer present
✅ Evidence backup: Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage
Week One Priorities:
✅ Medical follow-up: Continue documenting injuries; see specialists if needed; get psych evaluation
✅ Evidence gathering: Attorney will begin subpoenaing records, obtaining deleted messages via forensics
✅ Witness interviews: Attorney will contact other pledges and witnesses
✅ Strategy session: Decide on criminal report, civil suit, both, or internal university process
✅ Protection: If retaliation occurs, document and report immediately
For Students: Self-Assessment and Safety Planning
Is This Hazing? Decision Guide
Ask yourself:
- Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
- Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
- Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
- Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
- Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
- Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?
If you answered YES to any of these, it’s likely hazing.
How to Exit Safely
- If you’re in immediate danger:
- Call 911 or campus police
- Get to a safe location (your dorm, a friend’s place, a public area)
- You will not get in trouble for calling for help in a medical emergency
- If you want to quit/de-pledge:
- Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend)
- Send an email/text to the chapter president: “I am resigning my pledge/membership effective immediately”
- Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where they might pressure or retaliate
- Protecting yourself from retaliation:
- Document any threats or harassment (screenshots, recordings if legal)
- File a formal complaint with the university if you’re being stalked or harassed
- In Texas, harassment and stalking are crimes; you can seek a protective order
Evidence Collection (For Students)
- Screenshots of group chats:
- Capture full thread with sender names and timestamps
- Include messages before and after the hazing
- Back up immediately to cloud storage
- Voice memos/recordings:
- In Texas, you can legally record conversations you’re part of
- Record meetings, phone calls, or in-person interactions
- Photos/videos:
- Injuries (immediately and over time)
- Locations (where hazing occurred)
- Objects (paddles, alcohol bottles, props)
- Save everything digital:
- Don’t delete anything (texts, DMs, emails)
- Back up to cloud storage or email to yourself
- Medical documentation:
- If you go to ER or student health, tell them you were hazed
- Request copies of all records
- Witness information:
- Names and contact info for other pledges, members, bystanders
For Former Members/Witnesses: Breaking the Code of Silence
If you were part of hazing and now regret it:
- Acknowledge your feelings: Guilt and fear are normal, but staying silent enables future harm
- Your testimony matters: What you know could save lives and prevent future tragedies
- Legal protections exist: You may be eligible for immunity or leniency if you report in good faith
- You’re not alone: Many former members have come forward to help victims
- Next steps:
- Document what you know (dates, times, who was involved)
- Contact an attorney to discuss your options as a witness
- Consider reporting anonymously if you’re afraid of retaliation
Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case
MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:
-
Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence
- What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
- Why it’s wrong: Looks like a cover-up; can be obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
- What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content
-
Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly
- What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
- Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses
- What to do instead: Document everything, then call a lawyer before any confrontation
-
Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms
- What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements
- Why it’s wrong: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are often far below case value
- What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing it first
-
Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer
- What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
- Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility; can waive privilege
- What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging
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Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”
- What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
- Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt the case
- What to do instead: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer
-
Waiting “to see how the university handles it”
- What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
- Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute of limitations runs, university controls narrative
- What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately; university process ≠ real accountability
-
Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer
- What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
- Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
- What to do instead: Politely decline and say, “My attorney will contact you”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.
Is hazing a felony in Texas?
It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.
Can my child bring a case if they “agreed” to the initiation?
Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.
How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.
What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.
Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.
What if my child was drinking or involved in the hazing?
Texas law provides good-faith reporter protections for individuals who call for help in medical emergencies, even if they were drinking underage or involved in the hazing. Your child’s involvement doesn’t necessarily prevent a case—it depends on the specific facts.
How much is my case worth?
Every case is unique. Factors include:
- Severity of injuries (physical and psychological)
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Impact on education and career
- Emotional harm to victim and family
- Prior incidents and patterns of behavior
- Strength of evidence (group chats, witness testimony)
While we can’t predict specific outcomes, major hazing cases have resulted in settlements and verdicts ranging from $1 million to $14 million. Contact Attorney911 for a case-specific evaluation.
What if the fraternity has been suspended or shut down?
Suspension or closure doesn’t eliminate liability. National organizations, universities, and individual members may still be responsible. In fact, the decision to suspend or close a chapter can be evidence of prior knowledge and negligence.
Can we still pursue a case if criminal charges weren’t filed?
Yes. Civil lawsuits have a lower burden of proof than criminal cases. You can pursue a civil case even if no criminal charges were filed, or if criminal charges were dismissed.
What if my child is afraid of retaliation?
Retaliation is illegal under Texas law. Universities cannot retaliate against students who report hazing, and fraternities/sororities cannot retaliate against members who cooperate with investigations. If retaliation occurs, document it and report it immediately.
About The Manginello Law Firm: Texas Hazing Attorneys
Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases
When your family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway.
We’re not just hazing lawyers. We’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.
Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña):
Lupe Peña worked for years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. She knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:
- Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
- Use delay tactics and coverage exclusion arguments
- Settle cases for far less than they’re worth
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”
Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello):
Ralph Manginello was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, which resulted in $2.1 billion in settlements for 15 deaths and 180 injuries. This experience proves we can take on billion-dollar defendants with unlimited legal resources.
The same skills we used to fight BP apply to suing national fraternities, universities, and athletic programs:
- Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
- Not intimidated by powerful defense teams
- Proven ability to win against massive institutions
Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience:
We’ve recovered millions for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, including:
- Logging brain injury: multi-million dollar settlement
- Trucking wrongful death: millions recovered
- Car accident amputation: settled in the millions
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”
Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise:
Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand:
- How criminal hazing charges work
- How criminal and civil cases interact
- How to advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
Investigative Depth:
We investigate hazing cases like your child’s life depends on it—because it does. Our team includes:
- Digital forensics experts (recover deleted messages, obtain chapter records)
- Medical experts (document injuries, calculate future care needs)
- Economists (calculate lost earning capacity)
- Psychologists (document PTSD, depression, anxiety)
25+ Years of Experience:
Ralph has been practicing law since 1998. We’ve seen it all—from simple car accidents to complex institutional litigation. This experience means:
- We know how to navigate Texas courts
- We understand the tactics defendants use
- We know how to build winning cases
Spanish-Language Services:
Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and can provide legal consultations in Spanish. We serve Texas’s Hispanic community with the same dedication and expertise.
Hablamos Español: Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish.
What to Expect in Your Free Consultation
When you call Attorney911, here’s what will happen:
-
We’ll listen to your story without judgment
- What happened to your child
- When and where it occurred
- Who was involved
- What injuries or harm resulted
-
We’ll review any evidence you have
- Group chats, texts, DMs
- Photos of injuries
- Medical records
- Witness names and contact information
-
We’ll explain your legal options
- Criminal report (if applicable)
- Civil lawsuit (against whom and for what)
- University disciplinary process
- Other avenues for accountability
-
We’ll discuss realistic timelines and expectations
- How long cases typically take
- What to expect from the process
- Potential outcomes (without guaranteeing specific results)
-
We’ll answer your questions about costs
- Contingency fee basis: we don’t get paid unless we win your case
- No upfront costs or hidden fees
- How expenses are handled
-
We’ll give you time to decide
- No pressure to hire us on the spot
- You can take time to think about your options
- We’re here to help, whether you hire us or not
Everything you tell us is confidential.
Call to Action: Protect Your Child and Your Rights
If you’re a parent in Texas (Earth > North America > United States > Texas) or anywhere in Texas, and your child has been affected by hazing, we want to hear from you.
Hazing doesn’t have to be fatal to be devastating.
- Physical injuries (broken bones, chemical burns, organ damage)
- Psychological trauma (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
- Academic setbacks (missed semesters, lost scholarships)
- Financial burdens (medical bills, therapy costs)
You have rights. You have options. You’re not alone.
Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation:
- Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
- Direct: (713) 528-9070
- Cell: (713) 443-4781
- Website: https://attorney911.com
- Email: ralph@atty911.com
Servicios en español disponibles: Contacte a Lupe Peña en lupe@atty911.com
Whether your child attends:
- University of Houston (UH)
- Texas A&M University
- University of Texas at Austin (UT)
- Southern Methodist University (SMU)
- Baylor University
- Or any other Texas college or university
We serve families throughout Texas, including Texas (Earth > North America > United States > Texas) and the surrounding region.
Don’t wait. Evidence disappears fast.
- Group chats get deleted
- Witnesses graduate and move away
- Organizations destroy records
- Universities control the narrative
Call us today. We’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™—because when your child is hurt, every moment matters.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.
Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.
If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.
The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com
