A Wichita County Parent’s Guide to Hazing at Texas Universities: Laws, Cases, and Legal Rights

If Your Child Was Hazed in Texas, You Are Not Alone

A late-night call. A rushed drive to a hospital hours from home. The confusion of hearing your child—a student at a respected Texas university—whisper about forced drinking, extreme workouts, or humiliating acts they endured to “fit in.” For parents in Wichita County, from Wichita Falls to Burkburnett and across our rural communities, this nightmare scenario is unfolding too often.

Right now, our firm is leading one of the most serious hazing lawsuits in Texas: the case of Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston. In fall 2025, this young man endured brutal hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter that left him with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, hospitalized for four days, facing permanent kidney damage. The details are severe: a degrading “pledge fanny pack” rule, forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and extreme physical abuse including 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single session. As reported by Click2Houston, his urine was brown from muscle breakdown before he was rushed to the hospital.

This is not just a Houston problem. The same national fraternities and sororities that operate at UH have chapters at every major Texas campus where Wichita County families send their children: Texas A&M University, UT Austin, Baylor University, Southern Methodist University, and right here at Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls. The patterns of abuse, institutional cover-ups, and delayed accountability repeat across our state.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for parents, families, and students in Wichita County who need to understand what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects victims, and what legal options exist when universities and Greek organizations fail our children.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES IN WICHITA COUNTY

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 at United Regional Health Care System in Wichita Falls or the nearest emergency facility
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot GroupMe chats, texts, DMs immediately
  • Photograph injuries from multiple angles
  • Save physical items (clothing with substances, paddles, receipts)
• Write down everything while memory is fresh (names, dates, locations, what happened)
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity/sorority directly
  • 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 Texas hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast in the Texas Panhandle just like it does in Houston
• Universities move quickly to control the narrative
• We serve families throughout Texas, including Wichita County
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like at Texas Campuses

For Wichita County families who may be unfamiliar with modern Greek life or campus traditions, hazing has evolved far beyond stereotypical “pranks.” Today’s hazing is systematic, digitally coordinated, and often disguised as “team building” or “tradition.”

A Modern Definition That Matters for Texas Families

Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. Under Texas law, your child “agreeing” to participate does not make it legal when there is peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion.

Four Main Categories of Hazing Affecting Texas Students

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common—and most deadly—form of hazing. For Wichita County students at universities across Texas, this includes:

• Forced drinking games: “Big/Little” nights where pledges are given handles of liquor
• “Lineup” drinking challenges with rapid consumption
• Pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances
• Trivia games where wrong answers mean taking shots

2. Physical Hazing and “Conditioning”
Often disguised as “workouts” or “training,” this includes:

• Paddling and beatings (still occurring despite national bans)
• Extreme calisthenics: “smokings” with hundreds of push-ups/squats
• Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions”
• Food/water restriction or forced consumption of disgusting substances
• Exposure to extreme temperatures in North Texas winters or Panhandle heat

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
Some of the most psychologically damaging acts include:

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts: “roasted pig” positions, “elephant walks”
• Degrading costumes and public embarrassment
• Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones

4. Digital Hazing and Psychological Control
The newest frontier that follows students back to Wichita County on breaks:

• 24/7 GroupMe monitoring with immediate response demands
• Social media humiliation: forced TikTok challenges, Instagram dares
• Location tracking via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
• Cyberbullying and threats if they consider quitting

Where Hazing Happens Beyond Stereotypes

While fraternities and sororities dominate headlines, Wichita County families should know hazing occurs in:

• Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs at Texas A&M and other schools
• Athletic teams from football to cheerleading
• Spirit organizations like Texas Cowboys at UT
• Marching bands and performance groups
• Academic and service organizations

The common thread: social status, tradition, and secrecy keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law: What Wichita County Families Need to Know

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions that protect your child, whether they’re at school in the Panhandle or hours away at a major university.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Hazing Defined

The law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

1. Endangers mental or physical health or safety, AND
2. Occurs for pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any student organization

Key protections for Wichita County families:

• Location doesn’t matter: Hazing at an off-campus Airbnb or rural retreat is still illegal
• “Consent is not a defense”: Even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing under Texas law
• Mental harm counts: Psychological abuse qualifies alongside physical injury

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law

• Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing without serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
• Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
• State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death
• Additional crimes: Failing to report hazing or retaliating against reporters

Civil Liability: Holding Organizations Accountable

While criminal cases are pursued by the state, civil lawsuits allow families to seek compensation and accountability. In Texas, these suits can target:

1. Individual Students
Those who planned, carried out, or covered up hazing acts.

2. Local Chapters
The fraternity/sorority chapter itself if it’s a legal entity.

3. National Organizations
Headquarters that set policies, collect dues, and supervise chapters. Their knowledge of prior incidents nationwide creates “foreseeability.”

4. Universities
Public universities (like Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence. Private schools (SMU, Baylor) have fewer protections.

5. Third Parties
Property owners, alcohol providers, security companies.

Federal Laws Overlaying Texas Cases

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently and maintain public data by 2026.

Title IX
When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger additional protections and reporting requirements.

Clery Act
Requires reporting certain crimes; hazing incidents often overlap with assault or alcohol crimes.

For Wichita County families with students at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth or Midwestern State here at home, these federal layers add important protections and reporting requirements.

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Predict Texas Outcomes

Major national cases have shaped the legal landscape and show patterns that Wichita County families can expect when pursuing justice in Texas.

Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: The Deadliest Common Thread

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
A bid-acceptance night with heavy drinking led to fatal falls captured on chapter cameras. The delayed 911 call resulted in dozens of criminal charges and Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. Takeaway for Texas families: Delayed medical care dramatically increases liability.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
A “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking led to a 0.495% BAC and death. This case produced Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony. Takeaway: Legislative reform often follows public outrage from clear cases.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
A pledge forced to drink nearly a full bottle of whiskey died from alcohol poisoning. The $10 million settlement included $7M from the national fraternity and $3M from the university. Takeaway: Universities face significant financial consequences alongside fraternities.

Physical and Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
A blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at a remote retreat caused fatal head injuries. The national fraternity was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years and convicted of aggravated assault. Takeaway: Off-campus retreats don’t eliminate liability; national organizations face severe sanctions.

Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025)
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the football program, resulting in multiple lawsuits, coach firings, and confidential settlements. Takeaway: Hazing permeates big-money athletic programs with similar institutional cover-ups.

What These Cases Mean for Wichita County Families

The patterns are clear: forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, and cover-ups. The outcomes show: multi-million-dollar settlements, organizational bans, and new laws follow only after tragedy and litigation. Your family is operating in a landscape shaped by these national lessons.

Texas Focus: Where Wichita County Students Attend College

Wichita County families send their children to universities across Texas. Understanding the specific hazing landscape at each campus is crucial for prevention and response.

Midwestern State University: Our Local Campus

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Located right here in Wichita Falls, Midwestern State University serves many local families with its NCAA Division II athletics and growing Greek life community. For parents in Windthorst, Electra, or Iowa Park, MSU represents the most accessible higher education option. The campus hosts fraternities and sororities that participate in the same national systems present at larger Texas universities.

Documented Incidents & Local Context

While smaller than flagship campuses, MSU has faced hazing allegations involving both Greek organizations and athletic teams. The Texas Panhandle’s independent spirit sometimes manifests in traditions that cross into hazing territory. Local law enforcement collaboration between Wichita Falls PD and campus police is crucial for investigation.

How a Wichita Falls Hazing Case Proceeds

• Jurisdiction: Cases may involve Wichita County courts, 78th/89th District Courts, or federal courts in the Northern District of Texas
• Local representation matters: Understanding Wichita County legal culture and connections aids case strategy
• Medical resources: United Regional Health Care System documents injuries; local psychologists assess trauma

Texas A&M University: Where Many Wichita County Students Continue Their Education

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Many students from Wichita Falls, Burkburnett, and surrounding towns continue to Texas A&M University, drawn by its engineering programs, Corps of Cadets tradition, and strong Texas identity. The 350-mile drive from Wichita County to College Station represents a significant distance that can leave families feeling disconnected when crises occur.

Documented Incidents & Responses

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit (2021)
Pledges alleged being covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The fraternity was suspended for two years; pledges sued for $1 million.

Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023)
A cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million; A&M stated it handled the matter under its rules.

Kappa Sigma Incident (2023)
Allegations of hazing resulting in rhabdomyolysis—the same severe muscle breakdown condition suffered by Leonel Bermudez at UH.

What Wichita County A&M Families Should Know

• The Corps of Cadets has its own disciplinary system separate from general student conduct
• Brazos County jurisdiction applies to incidents in College Station
• The drive from Wichita Falls means families need immediate local legal support in Bryan/College Station

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency with Persistent Problems

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin attracts Wichita County students with its academic prestige and vibrant campus life. The 350-mile distance creates similar challenges for local families when crises occur.

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page

UT maintains one of Texas’ most transparent hazing disclosure systems at hazing.utexas.edu. Recent entries include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023)
New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation with mandatory hazing-prevention education.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024)
An Australian exchange student alleged assault resulting in dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose; lawsuit seeks over $1 million; chapter already under suspension.

Texas Wranglers & Other Spirit Groups
Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices.

Travis County Legal Considerations

• Jurisdiction: Cases may be filed in Travis County courts or removed to federal court
• Local counsel advantage: Understanding Austin’s legal community aids strategy
• Transparency benefit: UT’s public violation history helps establish pattern evidence

Southern Methodist University: Private University Challenges

Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU’s Dallas location places it within easier driving distance for Wichita County families. Its private university status affects transparency and liability considerations.

Documented Incidents

Kappa Alpha Order (2017)
New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, and deprived of sleep; chapter suspended with recruiting restrictions until 2021.

Private vs. Public University Differences

• Less sovereign immunity: SMU faces fewer governmental immunity protections
• Internal processes: Greater control over disciplinary procedures
• Dallas jurisdiction: Cases may proceed in Dallas County courts

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Scrutiny

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor’s Waco location and religious identity attract some Wichita County families, but its history of scrutiny over football and Title IX issues creates a complex environment for hazing response.

Documented Incidents

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020)
14 players suspended following hazing investigation; suspensions staggered through the early season.

Pattern of Institutional Challenges
Baylor’s broader cultural issues and prior scandals create both scrutiny and potential for institutional defensiveness in hazing cases.

University of Houston: Current Ground Zero for Texas Hazing Litigation

The Leonel Bermudez Case: Why It Matters to Wichita County

While Houston is 350+ miles from Wichita Falls, the UH Pi Kappa Phi case represents the active, serious hazing litigation happening right now in Texas that sets precedents affecting all Texas families.

Case Details Every Texas Parent Should Know:

• Victim: Leonel Bermudez, UH transfer student
• Fraternity: Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter
• Hazing Acts: “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation, forced consumption until vomiting, hose spraying “similar to waterboarding,” 100+ push-ups/500 squats
• Medical Outcome: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, brown urine, 4-day hospitalization
• Legal Response: $10 million lawsuit, chapter suspended then closed, 13 individual defendants plus UH and national headquarters
• Coverage: Detailed in ABC13 report

Why This Case Matters for Wichita County:

1. Proves Serious Litigation is Happening: This isn’t theoretical; we’re actively fighting one of Texas’ most severe hazing cases
2. Same Organizations Operate Here: Pi Kappa Phi and other nationals in the UH case have chapters at Texas A&M, UT, and across Texas
3. Establides Legal Precedents: Outcomes will affect how Texas courts view hazing cases statewide
4. Shows Institutional Response Patterns: UH’s reaction mirrors how other Texas universities might respond

Public Records: Fraternity and Sorority Organizations Serving Wichita County Families

Our firm maintains a Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracking over 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros. For Wichita County parents, understanding who stands behind the Greek letters is crucial. Below are examples from public records of organizations operating in Texas:

North Texas Region Organizations (Relevant to Wichita County Students)

From IRS B83 Texas filings, these tax-exempt Greek organizations are registered in our region:

• Gamma Iota Chapter of Gamma Phi Beta Sorority Inc
  EIN: 751225585 | 3410 Taft Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308-2036
  IRS B83 public filing as women’s fraternity/sorority

• Sigma Kappa Sorority – Gamma Phi Chapter Association
  Wichita Falls, TX | Cause IQ metro listing at Midwestern State University

• Tau Kappa Epsilon – MSU Texas Chapter
  Wichita Falls, TX | Cause IQ metro listing at Midwestern State University

• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi
  EIN: 845090974 | 3410 Taft Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308-2036
  Academic honor society chapter at Midwestern State University

• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Wichita Falls Alumnae
  Wichita Falls, TX | Graduate chapter serving North Texas region

Major Texas University Organizations (Where Wichita County Students Attend)

Texas A&M University Entities (IRS B83 Filings):

• Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc
  EIN: 133048786 | 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845-6681

• Beta Upsilon Chi
  EIN: 742911848 | 12650 N Beach St Ste 114 PMB 305, Fort Worth, TX 76244-4245
  Christian fraternity with Texas A&M chapter

University of Texas Entities:

• Chi Omega Fraternity
  EIN: 740555581 | 2711 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705-4018
  House corporation for UT chapter

Statewide Honor Societies:

• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi
  EIN: 900293166 | 114 Henderson Hall 4233 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-0001
  Texas A&M University chapter

• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi
  EIN: 463831593 | 2307 Vanderbilt Cir, Austin, TX 78723-1542
  Texas State University chapter

What This Directory Means for Wichita County Families

These public records show the legal entities behind the Greek letters. Each has:

• Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) for tax and legal purposes
• Mailing addresses that establish Texas jurisdiction
• Organizational structures that may carry insurance coverage
• Legal existence separate from individual members

When hazing occurs, identifying these entities is the first step toward accountability. We maintain this directory so Wichita County families never start their search from zero.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Legal Strategy

For Wichita County families pursuing accountability, understanding the investigation process is crucial.

Critical Evidence Categories in Modern Hazing Cases

1. Digital Communications (Most Important Today)

• GroupMe & WhatsApp: Primary platforms for hazing coordination
• Text Messages & iMessage: Individual threats or instructions
• Social Media: Instagram stories, Snapchat snaps, TikTok videos showing acts
• Recovery Capability: Digital forensics can often retrieve deleted messages

2. Photos & Videos

• Content filmed by members during events
• Security camera footage from houses
• Ring/doorbell camera recordings
• Social media posts before takedown

3. Internal Organization Documents

• Pledge manuals and initiation scripts
• “Tradition books” passed between pledge classes
• Email chains about planning events
• National policy manuals showing what should have been prevented

4. University Records

• Prior conduct complaints against the same organization
• Probation and suspension letters
• Campus police incident reports
• Clery Act reports showing pattern

5. Medical Evidence

• Emergency room records (critical for timing)
• Toxicology reports showing blood alcohol levels
• Specialist evaluations for ongoing conditions
• Psychological assessments for PTSD, depression, anxiety

6. Witness Testimony

• Other pledges experiencing same treatment
• Former members who quit over hazing
• Roommates, RAs, coaches who observed changes
• Medical providers who treated injuries

Damages: What Families Can Recover in Texas Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

• Medical expenses: ER visits, hospitalization, surgery, ongoing treatment
• Future medical care: Physical therapy, psychological counseling, medications
• Lost educational costs: Tuition for interrupted semesters, lost scholarships
• Diminished earning capacity: For permanent injuries affecting career prospects

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical pain and suffering from injuries
• Emotional distress, trauma, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Damage to family relationships

Wrongful Death Damages (When Tragedy Strikes)

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
• Emotional suffering of parents and siblings

Punitive Damages (When Conduct is Egregious)

• To punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
• Available when defendants knew risks and proceeded anyway
• Texas has caps on punitive damages in many cases

Navigating Insurance Coverage Challenges

Fraternities, universities, and property owners typically have insurance policies that may cover hazing claims. However, insurers often argue:

• Intentional Acts Exclusion: Claiming hazing is intentional and thus excluded
• Criminal Acts Exclusion: Arguing criminal behavior isn’t covered
• Policy Limits: Attempting to minimize payout amounts

Our experience includes:

• Insurance Insider Knowledge: Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney and knows how insurers fight claims
• Multiple Policy Identification: Finding all potential coverage sources
• Bad Faith Litigation: When insurers wrongfully deny valid claims

Fraternity and Sorority National Histories: Patterns That Predict Risk

Wichita County families should understand that local chapters at Texas universities are part of national organizations with documented hazing histories.

Why National Histories Matter in Texas Courts

When a Texas chapter repeats behaviors that caused deaths or serious injuries at other campuses, courts consider this foreseeability—the national organization knew or should have known the risks.

Major National Organizations Present at Texas Campuses

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

• Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State University, 2021 – alcohol poisoning death
• David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois University, 2012 – alcohol poisoning death
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, others
• Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing events with forced consumption

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

• Traumatic Brain Injury Case: University of Alabama, 2023 – lawsuit filed
• Chemical Burns Case: Texas A&M University, 2021 – $1 million lawsuit
• Assault Case: UT Austin, 2024 – exchange student injured, $1M+ lawsuit
• Texas Presence: Chapters at all major Texas universities
• Pattern: Physical abuse combined with substance hazing

Phi Delta Theta

• Max Gruver: LSU, 2017 – “Bible study” drinking game death
• Louisiana Response: Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony
• Texas Presence: Multiple Texas chapters
• Pattern: Drinking games disguised as “study” or “trivia”

Pi Kappa Phi

• Andrew Coffey: Florida State University, 2017 – Big Brother night death
• Leonel Bermudez: University of Houston, 2025 – active $10M lawsuit
• Pattern: Physical endurance combined with humiliation rituals

Kappa Alpha Order

• SMU Chapter: 2017 suspension for paddling, forced drinking
• Multiple Campuses: History of physical hazing violations
• Pattern: Traditional paddling combined with alcohol

How These Histories Affect Wichita County Cases

1. Establishing Notice: National organizations can’t claim “we didn’t know this could happen”
2. Pattern Evidence: Similar methods across campuses show systematic issues
3. Punitive Damages: Repeated warnings ignored may justify punitive awards
4. Settlement Leverage: Nationals often settle to avoid discovery of prior knowledge

Practical Guides for Wichita County Families, Students, and Witnesses

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Experiencing Hazing

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Weight changes from food/water manipulation
• Signs of alcohol poisoning even if your child doesn’t typically drink

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

• Sudden secrecy about organization activities
• Withdrawal from family and non-member friends
• Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Fear of “letting the chapter down” or “getting in trouble”
• Phone obsession – constant group chat monitoring

Academic Red Flags:

• Grades dropping suddenly
• Missing classes or falling asleep in class
• Skipping assignments for “mandatory” events

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing

1. Choose the Right Time: When you’re both calm and not rushed
2. Use Open Questions: “How are things going with [organization]?” not “Are they hazing you?”
3. Listen Without Judgment: If they start sharing, don’t interrupt with anger
4. Emphasize Safety: “Your health matters more than any membership”
5. Have Resources Ready: Know campus reporting options before the conversation

48-Hour Action Plan for Wichita County Parents

Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis):
✅ Medical attention at United Regional or nearest ER
✅ Safety first – remove from dangerous situation
✅ Evidence preservation: screenshot messages, photograph injuries
✅ Notes: Write down everything they say with dates/times
✅ Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance

Hour 6-24 (Evidence Collection):
✅ Digital preservation: Backup all messages to cloud storage
✅ Physical evidence: Secure clothing, objects, receipts
✅ Medical records: Request copies from hospital
✅ Witness list: Names/contact info for others involved
✅ University communication: Document all contact but don’t respond yet

Hour 24-48 (Strategic Decisions):
✅ Legal consultation with experienced hazing attorney
✅ Reporting decisions: Campus police, local police, or both
✅ University response: Refer all contacts to your attorney
✅ Insurance communication: Do NOT speak to adjusters without counsel

For Students: Self-Protection and Safe Exits

Is This Hazing? A Quick Self-Assessment

Ask yourself:

• Am I being forced or pressured to do something unsafe or humiliating?
• Would I do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
• Is this activity something we hide from university officials or parents?
• Are older members making us do things they don’t have to do themselves?
• Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about what’s happening?

If You Answered YES: It’s Hazing

How to Exit Safely

If in Immediate Danger:

• Call 911 first
• Get to a safe location: your dorm, friend’s place, public area
• Texas law protects those who call for help in good faith

If You Want to Quit:

• Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, trusted friend)
• Send a written resignation: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
• Do NOT attend “one last meeting” where pressure may occur
• If threatened, report to campus police and Dean of Students

Your Legal Rights in Texas

• Good Faith Reporter Protection: You won’t face university discipline for calling 911 in an emergency
• Consent is Not a Defense: Even if you “agreed,” hazing is still illegal
• Civil Lawsuit Option: You can sue for damages even without criminal charges
• No-Contact Orders: Available if you face harassment after reporting

For Former Members and Witnesses: Coming Forward

If You Participated and Now Regret It

We understand the complexity: you may feel guilt, fear of consequences, and loyalty conflicts. However:

• Your testimony could prevent future injuries or deaths
• Cooperating with investigations can be part of taking responsibility
• You may want independent legal advice about your exposure
• Many find that coming forward provides emotional relief

Protections for Witnesses

• Whistleblower protections in some cases
• Confidentiality possibilities in civil settlements
• Your safety and well-being matter in the process

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

Based on our experience handling hazing cases across Texas, these errors can severely damage or eliminate your legal options:

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence
What families think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
Why it’s wrong: Looks like obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly
What families think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
What to do instead: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms
What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
Why it’s wrong: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are often minimal
What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review. Watch our video on client mistakes that can ruin your case

4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Legal Advice
What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

5. 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, statutes of limitation run
What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

6. 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: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Wichita County Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (Texas A&M, UT Austin, etc.) have some sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer protections. Every case depends on specific facts.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default but becomes a state jail felony if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to participate?”
Consent is not a defense under Texas Education Code § 37.155. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion isn’t true voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if harm wasn’t immediately apparent. In cases involving cover-ups, the statute may be paused. Time is critical – learn more in our statute of limitations video.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national organizations can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Many major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus with 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.

“How much does a hazing lawyer cost?”
We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation. See our contingency fee explanation video for details.

Why Attorney911 for Wichita County Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway.

Our Unique Qualifications for Texas Hazing Cases

Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña)

• Former insurance defense attorney at a national firm
• Knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it.” Learn more about Mr. Peña’s background

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello)

• One of the few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation
• Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
• Not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams
• “We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won.” See Ralph’s complete credentials

Active Texas Hazing Litigation Experience

• Currently representing Leonel Bermudez in the $10 million UH Pi Kappa Phi case
• Direct experience with Texas hazing laws and university responses
• Understanding of both Houston metro and Panhandle legal landscapes

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience

• Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
• Economist collaboration for lifetime care valuation
• Experience with rhabdomyolysis, TBI, permanent disability cases
• We don’t settle cheap: We build cases that force accountability

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

• Ralph’s HCCLA membership signals elite criminal defense capability
• Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
• Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure

Investigative Depth for Wichita County Families

• Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
• Experience obtaining hidden evidence: group chats, chapter records, university files
• Public records mastery: Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine with 1,423+ organizations tracked
• We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does

Spanish-Language Services Available

• Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
• Servicios legales en español disponibles
• Critical for serving Texas Hispanic families affected by hazing

How We Approach Wichita County Hazing Cases

Immediate Response

• 24/7 availability for emergencies
• Evidence preservation guidance within hours
• Initial case assessment while facts are fresh

Thorough Investigation

• Digital forensics for deleted messages
• Public records research on organizations
• Witness interviews before memories fade
• Expert consultation for medical and psychological harm

Strategic Legal Action

• Identifying all potentially liable parties
• Navigating insurance coverage issues
• Balancing victim privacy with public accountability
• Pursuing both compensation and institutional reform

Client-Centered Approach

• Regular updates and clear communication
• Respect for your family’s emotional journey
• Collaboration with your input and goals
• Commitment to preventing future harm

Call to Action for Wichita County Families

If you or your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus—from Midwestern State University here in Wichita Falls to universities across the state—we want to help you find answers and accountability.

Why Texas-Based Counsel Matters for Wichita County Families

• Texas Law Expertise: We know Education Code Chapter 37 and how Texas courts apply it
• University System Knowledge: Understanding of UT System, Texas A&M System, and private university dynamics
• Geographic Coverage: We serve families throughout Texas, including Wichita County and the Panhandle region
• Local Connections: Relationships with experts, investigators, and professionals across Texas

Your Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation

When you contact us, you can expect:

1. A Compassionate Listening Ear: We’ll hear your story without judgment
2. Evidence Review: Assessment of what you’ve preserved and what we might obtain
3. Legal Options Explained: Clear explanation of criminal reporting, civil lawsuits, or both
4. Realistic Expectations: Honest assessment of challenges and potential outcomes
5. No Pressure: Take time to decide what’s right for your family
6. Complete Confidentiality: Everything you share is protected

We Serve All of Texas from Multiple Offices
-YES: The Manginello Law Firm, PLCC / Attorney911
-YES: Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas

Contact Us Today

• 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 or lupe@atty911.com

Hablamos Español

• Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish
• Servicios legales en español disponibles

Whether you’re in Wichita Falls, Burkburnett, Electra, or anywhere in Wichita County, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of the Leonel Bermudez UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

• Click2Houston report: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
• ABC13 coverage: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
• Hoodline summary: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

• Evidence preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
• Statute of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• Client mistakes to avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
• Contingency fees explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

• https://attorney911.com

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
Texas Hazing Litigation Specialists
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Website: https://attorney911.com