Hazing Lawyer in Shackelford County: Your Ultimate Guide to Texas Fraternity & Sorority Accountability

If Your Child Was Hazed in Shackelford County or at Any Texas University, You Are Not Alone

For parents and families in Shackelford County—from Albany to Moran, Lueders to Fort Griffin—sending a child off to college represents both pride and concern. We understand that West Texas values of family, community, and hard work define your expectations for your children’s education and safety. When that safety is violated through hazing at a Texas fraternity, sorority, Corps program, athletic team, or campus organization, the betrayal cuts deep. The nightmare begins with a phone call, a late-night message, or a hospital visit that reveals your child has been subjected to degradation, violence, or coercion in the name of “brotherhood,” “sisterhood,” or “tradition.”

Right now, in our own state, we are fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. In late 2025, we filed a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, its housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders. The details are harrowing: forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting; being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”; “pledge fanny packs” containing condoms and sex toys; 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion; and ultimately, rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure that left Bermudez hospitalized for four days with brown urine and critically high creatine kinase levels. The Pi Kappa Phi chapter has been shut down, but Leonel faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.

This is not an isolated incident in Houston. This pattern of abuse—disguised as tradition—occurs across Texas, from the University of Texas at Austin to Texas A&M University, from SMU to Baylor, and at smaller campuses where Shackelford County families send their children, including McMurry University and Hardin-Simmons University right here in Abilene. These organizations operate within a complex network of local chapters, alumni associations, housing corporations, and national headquarters—all with insurance policies, legal structures, and defense strategies designed to minimize accountability.

This comprehensive guide explains what hazing looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects victims, what precedents exist from national cases, which fraternities and sororities have documented histories of abuse, and most importantly, what legal options Shackelford County families have when their children are harmed. We serve families throughout Texas from our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, bringing particular understanding of West Texas communities and the universities they trust with their children’s futures.

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 are “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 in Texas

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Tactics

Hazing has evolved far beyond the “Hell Week” stereotypes of previous generations. For Shackelford County families whose children may be first-generation college students or navigating Greek life for the first time, understanding these modern tactics is crucial for recognition and prevention.

Digital Control & Coercion:
Today’s hazing often begins on smartphones before any physical contact occurs. Pledges are required to join GroupMe, WhatsApp, or Discord servers where they receive constant demands, humiliating assignments, and threats of expulsion for non-compliance. Location-sharing through apps like Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps creates 24/7 surveillance. One of the most disturbing aspects of the Leonel Bermudez case at University of Houston was the “pledge fanny pack” rule—pledges carried degrading items 24/7 and faced punishment for non-compliance. This digital leash represents a new frontier in psychological control.

Disguised as “Wellness” or “Tradition”:
Organizations have become sophisticated at rebranding abuse. What parents might hear as “mandatory study sessions” or “team bonding workouts” often involve sleep deprivation, extreme calisthenics, or forced consumption rituals. At Texas A&M, Corps of Cadets traditions have sometimes crossed into abusive territory under the guise of “military discipline.” At Baylor, athletic team “initiations” have involved dangerous behavior masked as “team building.”

Off-Campus & Retreat Hazing:
To avoid university oversight and security cameras, hazing has moved to Airbnbs, private rentals, and remote properties. The Pi Delta Psi case that resulted in Chun “Michael” Deng’s death occurred at a remote Pennsylvania retreat—proof that distance from campus doesn’t eliminate danger or liability. For Shackelford County students attending schools like Texas Tech or TCU, this might mean hazing occurring in properties far from Lubbock or Fort Worth.

The Three Tiers of Hazing Violence

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (Often Dismissed as “Harmless”)

Mandated servitude (cleaning, chauffeuring, running errands at all hours)
Social isolation from non-members
“Optional” events that carry severe social consequences for non-attendance
Demeaning nicknames or identities
For Shackelford County families: These early signs often get dismissed as “paying dues” but establish the power imbalance that enables worse abuse.

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Clear Abuse)

Sleep deprivation through late-night “meetings” or tasks
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpleasant substances
Verbal abuse, screaming, degradation sessions
Public humiliation through embarrassing costumes or acts
Extreme physical exercise beyond safe limits
The University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi case involved all these elements before escalating to life-threatening violence.

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (Criminal Conduct)

Forced alcohol consumption (the leading cause of hazing deaths)
Physical beatings, paddling, branding
Sexualized hazing (forced nudity, simulated acts)
Dangerous physical tests (“glass ceiling” tackles, blindfolded challenges)
Exposure to extreme environments (left outside in cold, locked in confined spaces)
The medical outcome in the Bermudez case—rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure—represents the catastrophic potential of Tier 3 hazing.

Who Is at Risk? It’s Not Just “Frat Boys”

While fraternities receive the most media attention, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

Sororities: Often involve psychological abuse, sleep deprivation, and coercive control
Corps of Cadets & ROTC: Military traditions sometimes devolve into physical abuse
Athletic Teams: From football to swimming, “team initiations” can turn violent
Spirit Organizations & Tradition Groups: Texas Cowboys, cheer squads, and similar groups
Marching Bands & Performance Groups: Documented cases nationwide
Academic & Cultural Organizations: Even honor societies can cross lines

For Shackelford County students at Abilene’s universities or those who travel to larger campuses, understanding that danger can come from any group claiming exclusivity is vital.

Texas Hazing Law: What Shackelford County Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Legal Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing statutes in the Education Code that apply to all students at Texas universities, whether public or private. For Shackelford County families navigating a hazing crisis, understanding these provisions provides crucial clarity.

§ 37.151: The Definition That Matters
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, 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

Key Implications for Texas Families:

Location doesn’t matter: Off-campus houses, Airbnbs, retreats—all covered
“Consent” is NOT a defense: § 37.155 explicitly states this
Mental harm counts: Psychological trauma qualifies as hazing
Recklessness suffices: They don’t need to “intend” injury—just be reckless about known risks

§ 37.152: Criminal Penalties That Apply

Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (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 charges: Furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases

§ 37.154: Protection for Good-Faith Reporters
Students who report hazing or call for medical help in good faith receive immunity from university discipline and certain criminal liability. This “medical amnesty” is critical—your child won’t get in trouble for underage drinking if they call 911 to save a life.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Two-Track System

Criminal Cases (The State vs. Perpetrators)

Prosecuted by district attorneys (Taylor County for Abilene-area schools)
Focus: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Burden: Beyond reasonable doubt
Your role: Victim/witness, not party to the case
Reality: Many hazing cases result in misdemeanor pleas; felony prosecutions require severe injury or death

Civil Cases (Your Family vs. All Responsible Parties)

Filed by victims or surviving families
Focus: Compensation and accountability
Burden: Preponderance of evidence (more likely than not)
Your control: You decide whether to file, when to settle
Advantage: Can target multiple defendants with deeper pockets

Why Most Families Pursue Both:
Criminal convictions strengthen civil cases, but you don’t need a criminal conviction to file a civil lawsuit. The Leonel Bermudez case is proceeding civilly while potential criminal investigations continue.

Federal Overlay: Title IX, Clery Act, and New Federal Laws

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
Beginning around 2026, universities receiving federal funds must:

Publicly report hazing incidents annually
Maintain transparent hazing violation logs
Implement evidence-based prevention programs
For Shackelford County families: This will eventually make it easier to see which organizations have prior violations

Title IX Implications
When hazing involves:

Sexual harassment or assault
Gender-based hostility
Differential treatment based on sex
Title IX requires universities to investigate and potentially provide remedies. The Northwestern University athletic hazing scandal involved Title IX violations alongside hazing claims.

Clery Act Requirements
Universities must report certain crimes occurring on or near campus. Hazing incidents involving assault, burglary, or liquor law violations trigger Clery reporting obligations.

The Full Universe of Liability: Who Can Be Held Accountable

1. Individual Students

Those who planned, executed, or covered up hazing
Chapter officers with supervisory responsibility
Members who participated or failed to intervene

2. Local Chapter/Organization

The fraternity/sorority as an entity (if incorporated)
Chapter housing corporations
Alumni advisory boards

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters

Entities that set policies, collect dues, provide insurance
Often have deepest pockets and best insurance
Can be liable for negligent supervision or failure to act on prior knowledge

4. Universities & Governing Boards

Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity but exceptions exist
Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections
Liability based on: prior knowledge, inadequate policies, deliberate indifference

5. Third Parties

Property owners/landlords of hazing locations
Alcohol providers (dram shop liability in Texas)
Security companies or event organizers

In the Bermudez case, we named 17 defendants across all these categories—a strategic approach that maximizes accountability and potential recovery.

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: Lessons from Fatal Cases

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)

What happened: 20-year-old pledge forced to consume entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night; died from alcohol poisoning
Legal outcome: Multiple criminal convictions; $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Texas relevance: Pi Kappa Alpha has chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Baylor, and most major Texas campuses

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

What happened: Pledge forced to participate in “Bible study” drinking game; died with 0.495% BAC
Legal outcome: Negligent homicide conviction; Louisiana passed Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony
Texas relevance: Phi Delta Theta operates at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, SMU

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

What happened: Pledge died from acute alcohol poisoning during “Big Brother Night”
Legal outcome: Multiple misdemeanor hazing convictions; national Pi Kappa Phi implemented reforms
Texas relevance: Pi Kappa Phi is the fraternity in our Leonel Bermudez case at University of Houston

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)

What happened: Bid acceptance night with extreme drinking; fatal falls captured on chapter cameras; 18 members charged
Legal outcome: Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania; massive civil settlements
Texas relevance: Beta Theta Pi has chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech

Physical & Ritualized Hazing: When Tradition Turns Deadly

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)

What happened: Pledge blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual; died from traumatic brain injury
Legal outcome: National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Texas relevance: Shows national organizations can face criminal liability

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)

What happened: 18-year-old pledge forced to drink massive amounts during “pledge dad reveal”; suffered permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
Legal outcome: Settlements with 22 defendants; chapter closed
Texas relevance: Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) has chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Baylor

Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025)

What happened: Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Legal outcome: Multiple lawsuits; head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired then settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Texas relevance: Major athletic programs at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Baylor face similar risks

What These Cases Mean for Shackelford County Families

Patterns repeat: The same fraternities, same rituals, same excuses appear nationwide
National headquarters know: These organizations have extensive records of prior incidents
Universities often fail: Despite policies, hazing continues until litigation forces change
Justice is possible: Multi-million dollar settlements and reforms follow persistent litigation
Texas is not immune: Our state has seen severe cases and will see more without accountability

Texas University Focus: Where Shackelford County Students Attend

Local Connections: Abilene-Area Universities

McMurry University & Hardin-Simmons University
For many Shackelford County families, Abilene’s universities represent the first choice for higher education—close enough for weekend visits, offering familiar community values, yet still exposing students to Greek life and organizational risks.

What Shackelford County Parents Should Know:

Both universities have Greek systems with national affiliations
Smaller campuses don’t guarantee safety—sometimes mean less oversight
Hazing policies exist but enforcement varies
Local Taylor County courts would handle any criminal cases
Civil cases might be filed in Taylor County or federal court

Documented Texas Patterns: While specific hazing incidents at McMurry and Hardin-Simmons may not make national news, the national organizations present on these campuses have documented hazing histories elsewhere. Sigma Chi, Kappa Sigma, Alpha Delta Pi, and other groups maintain consistent patterns across chapters.

Texas Tech University: The Regional Powerhouse

Many Shackelford County students head to Lubbock for Texas Tech’s renowned programs. With over 40 fraternities and sororities, Texas Tech represents both opportunity and risk.

Recent Texas Tech Hazing Concerns:

Kappa Sigma hazing allegations involving rhabdomyolysis from extreme exercise
Sigma Alpha Epsilon history of alcohol-related incidents
Multiple chapter suspensions for policy violations
Lubbock police jurisdiction for off-campus incidents

For Shackelford County Families at Texas Tech:

Distance from home (2.5 hours) doesn’t prevent parental vigilance
Lubbock courts (Lubbock County) handle local cases
Texas Tech’s Greek life is large and well-established—with corresponding risks
The university’s response to hazing has evolved but remains inconsistent

The Big 5: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor

University of Houston: Our Current Battlefront

The Leonel Bermudez Case Details:

Dates: Fall 2025 pledge period
Locations: Pi Kappa Phi house, Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Boulevard Park
Specific abuses: “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation; forced milk/hot dog/peppercorn consumption; hose spraying “like waterboarding”; 100+ push-ups/500 squats; hog-tying another pledge
Medical catastrophe: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization
Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, Beta Nu housing corp, 13 individuals
Outcome: Chapter suspended Nov 6, 2025; charter surrendered Nov 14, 2025; lawsuit seeking $10M+

Why This Matters for All Texas Families:

Shows hazing continues despite decades of “zero tolerance” policies
Demonstrates medical severity possible from physical hazing
Illustrates complex defendant network (individuals + entities)
Proves immediate legal action can secure evidence before destruction

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture & Greek Life

Unique Risk Factors:

Corps of Cadets: Military traditions sometimes devolve into abuse
2023 Corps lawsuit: Cadet alleged being bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth
Sigma Alpha Epsilon chemical burns case: Pledges covered in industrial cleaner causing severe burns requiring skin grafts
Texas A&M’s response: Often handles internally through Corps or student conduct systems

For Shackelford County Aggie Families:

College Station is 4+ hours away—distance complicates monitoring
Brazos County courts handle local cases
University’s tradition-heavy culture can normalize abusive behavior
Civil cases may involve both Greek organizations and Corps leadership

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency & Recurring Problems

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Log (hazing.utexas.edu):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
Sigma Alpha Epsilon assault case (2024): Australian exchange student suffered dislocated leg, broken nose at party
Multiple spirit organizations: Texas Wranglers, Orange Jackets with hazing violations
Transparency advantage: Families can research organizations before joining

Travis County Legal Considerations:

Austin police handle off-campus incidents
UT’s size means multiple organizations with hazing histories
University’s public data helps prove “prior notice” in lawsuits

Southern Methodist University: Affluence & Accountability

SMU’s Greek Dominance:

Higher percentage of Greek participation than most Texas schools
Kappa Alpha Order incident (2017): Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation
Private university status: Less public transparency than state schools
Dallas County jurisdiction: Sophisticated court system for complex litigation

Considerations for Shackelford County Families:

SMU’s tuition means significant financial investment at risk
Dallas legal community understands complex institutional cases
Social pressure for Greek membership can be intense

Baylor University: Faith, Football & Fallout

After the Sexual Assault Scandal:

University under heightened scrutiny
Baseball hazing (2020): 14 players suspended
Religious identity: Creates unique dynamics around accountability
McLennan County courts: Local jurisdiction with experience in Baylor litigation

Baylor-Specific Concerns:

University’s recent history affects how it handles new scandals
Football program’s prominence creates potential for athletic hazing
Christian affiliation doesn’t prevent abusive behavior

How Hazing Cases Proceed at Texas Universities

The Standard Timeline:

Incident occurs (often at night/weekend)
Medical treatment (ER visit often first official record)
University notification (days to weeks later)
Internal investigation (weeks to months)
Student conduct process (often parallel to criminal investigation)
Criminal charges (if filed)
Civil lawsuit (can begin immediately to preserve evidence)

The University Playbook:

Control narrative: Early statements often minimize severity
Internal resolution: Pressure families to accept disciplinary outcomes only
Delay tactics: Investigations drag on until witnesses graduate/evidence disappears
Sovereign immunity claims: Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) claim protection

Why You Need Your Own Counsel:

Universities represent institutional interests, not your child’s
Internal processes lack due process protections
Settlements offered early are typically minimal
Evidence preservation requires immediate action

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories Meet Texas Chapters

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: What We Track

Our firm maintains what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a comprehensive database of Greek organizations operating in Texas. For Shackelford County families, this means we don’t start from scratch when investigating your case. We already know the organizational landscape.

IRS B83 Data: The Backbone
The IRS classifies Greek organizations under code B83. We track 125+ Texas-registered entities including:

Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN 462267515) – Frisco, TX 75035
Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation (EIN 371768785) – Missouri City, TX 77459
Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter (EIN 746084905) – Houston, TX 77204
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (EIN 746064445) – Nederland, TX 77627
Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc (EIN 133048786) – College Station, TX 77845
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc (EIN 475370943) – Houston, TX 77204 (Theta Delta chapter)

Cause IQ Metro Analysis:

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510 Greek organizations
Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro: 188 organizations
Austin-Round Rock Metro: 154 organizations
Lubbock Metro: 59 organizations (relevant for Texas Tech families)
Abilene Metro: 9 organizations (including McMurry/Hardin-Simmons groups)

Why This Data Matters:
When your child is hazed, multiple entities may share liability:

Undergraduate chapter
Housing corporation (owns the house)
Alumni chapter association
National headquarters
Educational foundation
Insurance trust

We identify ALL potentially responsible parties to maximize accountability and recovery.

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / “Pike”)

Stone Foltz death (Bowling Green, 2021) – $10M settlement
David Bogenberger death (Northern Illinois, 2012) – $14M settlement
Texas chapters: UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Baylor, most major campuses
Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing recurring despite national knowledge

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / “SAE”)

Traumatic brain injury lawsuit (Alabama, 2023)
Chemical burns case (Texas A&M, 2021) – industrial cleaner poured on pledges
Assault case (UT Austin, 2024) – exchange student with dislocated leg
National reputation: Once called “the deadliest fraternity” by Bloomberg
Texas chapters: Every major campus

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

Andrew Coffey death (Florida State, 2017)
Leonel Bermudez case (University of Houston, 2025) – our active litigation
Pattern: Physical hazing leading to medical emergencies

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

Max Gruver death (LSU, 2017) – led to Louisiana felony hazing law
Texas chapters: UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, SMU

Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ)

Chad Meredith death (Miami, 2001) – $12.6M verdict
Rhabdomyolysis allegations (Texas Tech, ongoing)
Texas chapters: All major campuses

How National Histories Create Liability

The “Foreseeability” Argument:
When a national organization has documented hazing deaths or severe injuries at other chapters, they cannot claim “we didn’t know this could happen.” Their own risk management manuals and training materials prove they knew the risks.

Negligent Supervision Claims:
Nationals that collect dues, provide insurance, and maintain oversight relationships with chapters can be liable for failing to prevent predictable harm.

Punitive Damage Potential:
When organizations ignore prior incidents or implement ineffective “paper policies,” Texas courts may award punitive damages to punish reckless disregard for safety.

Insurance Coverage Battles:
National organizations typically have liability insurance, but insurers often argue hazing is an “intentional act” excluded from coverage. Our insurance insider knowledge (from Mr. Lupe Peña’s defense background) helps navigate these disputes.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy & Recovery

Evidence Preservation: The 72-Hour Window

Digital Evidence (Most Critical):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord (screenshot entire threads with timestamps)
Social media: Instagram stories, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook (content disappears fast)
Location data: Google Maps timeline, Find My Friends history
Deleted recovery: Digital forensics can often recover “deleted” messages
Our video resource: Using your phone to document evidence

Medical Documentation:

ER records: Must specify “hazing” as cause of injury
Lab results: Blood alcohol, creatine kinase (rhabdomyolysis indicator), kidney function
Psychological evaluation: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses
Follow-up care: Shows ongoing harm

Physical Evidence:

Clothing with stains/damage
Paddles, props, costumes used
Receipts for forced purchases
Photographs of injuries (multiple angles, with scale reference)

Witness Identification:

Other pledges (often afraid but may cooperate later)
Roommates, friends who noticed changes
Former members who quit over concerns
Medical personnel who treated injuries

Damages: What Your Family Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable):

Medical expenses: Past and future (emergency care, ongoing treatment, therapy)
Lost educational costs: Tuition for interrupted semesters, lost scholarships
Earning capacity loss: If injuries affect future career prospects
Other expenses: Counseling, tutoring, relocation

Non-Economic Damages (Substantial but Subjective):

Physical pain & suffering: From injuries and treatment
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment: Can’t participate in college life, activities
Reputational harm: Social stigma, privacy invasion

Wrongful Death Damages (If Tragedy Occurs):

Funeral/burial costs
Loss of financial support: Future earnings deceased would have provided
Loss of companionship: To parents, siblings, spouse
Emotional suffering: Grief, mental anguish

Punitive Damages (When Defendants Act Recklessly):

Purpose: Punish and deter outrageous conduct
When awarded: Prior warnings ignored, cover-up attempts, particularly cruel acts
Texas caps: Generally limited but exceptions exist for gross negligence

Case Strategy: Why Experience Matters

Immediate Actions:

Evidence preservation order: Court order preventing destruction of digital evidence
Witness interviews: Before stories become coordinated
Public records requests: University disciplinary records, police reports
Preservation letters: To all potential defendants and insurers

Defense Tactics We Anticipate:

“Consent” defense: We counter with Texas Education Code § 37.155
“Rogue chapter” claim: We show national’s prior knowledge and inadequate supervision
Insurance coverage denials: We fight exclusions using negligent supervision theories
Sovereign immunity claims: We argue exceptions for gross negligence
Statute of limitations: We file within 2 years (sometimes extended by discovery rule)

Why Our BP Texas City Experience Matters:

We’ve faced billion-dollar defendants with unlimited legal budgets
We understand complex institutional cover-ups
We know how to trace failure to root causes (training, policy, culture)
We’re not intimidated by powerful opponents

Settlement vs. Trial Realities

Most Cases Settle (Confidentially):

Timing: After discovery but before trial
Amounts: Vary by injury severity, liability clarity, defendant resources
Terms: Often include non-disclosure agreements
Advantages: Certainty, privacy, quicker resolution

When Trials Happen:

Defendants deny liability or make unreasonable offers
Public accountability is important to family
Case establishes important legal precedent
Our stance: We prepare every case for trial because that’s when settlements improve

Recent Texas-Relevant Settlements:

Stone Foltz (Pi Kappa Alpha): $10M total
Max Gruver (Phi Delta Theta): $6.1M verdict plus confidential settlements
Sigma Chi (College of Charleston): $10M+ for severe hazing
UT Austin SAE assault: Ongoing, likely significant given injuries

Practical Guides for Shackelford County Families

For Parents: Warning Signs & Response

Physical Red Flags:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries with inconsistent stories
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food restriction/forced consumption
Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, early wake-ups)

Behavioral Changes:

New secrecy about organizational activities
Withdrawal from family, old friends
Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability
Constant phone checking/responding to group chats
Financial requests for unexplained expenses

Academic Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or falling asleep in class
Losing scholarships or academic standing

How to Talk to Your Child:

Choose timing: Private, unrushed setting
Open questions: “How are things with [organization]?” not “Are they hazing you?”
Listen without judgment: They may fear disappointing you
Emphasize safety: “Nothing is more important than your health”
Unified front: Both parents share same message

When You Suspect Hazing:

Medical priority: Get treatment even if they resist
Document everything: Write down what they say, photograph injuries
Preserve digital evidence: Screenshot messages together
Consult attorney BEFORE contacting university or organization
Support emotionally: This is traumatic for them too

For Students: Recognizing & Escaping Hazing

Is This Hazing? Ask Yourself:
-p Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?

Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew the details?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie?

Your Rights in Texas:

Medical amnesty: You won’t get in trouble for underage drinking if calling 911 for emergency
Good-faith reporter protection: Immunity for reporting hazing
Right to leave: You can quit any organization at any time
Privacy rights: You control who knows about your experience

Safe Exit Strategies:

Tell someone first: Parent, trusted friend, RA—create a record
Written resignation: Email/text to chapter president: “I resign effective immediately”
Do NOT attend “exit meetings”: Where pressure/retaliation happens
Document threats: Save any retaliation messages
University report: File formal complaint if harassed after leaving

Evidence Collection for Students:

Screenshots: Full conversation threads with timestamps
Photos: Injuries (daily progression), locations, objects used
Medical records: Tell providers “this was from hazing” for documentation
Witness list: Names/contacts of others who saw what happened
Journal: Daily notes of what’s happening

Critical Mistakes That Destroy Hazing Cases

MISTAKE #1: Deleting Evidence

What happens: “I’m embarrassed” or “I don’t want to get them in trouble”
Why it’s fatal: Looks like cover-up; destroys case
Better approach: Save everything—embarrassment fades, justice matters

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization

What happens: Parents march to fraternity house demanding answers
Why it’s fatal: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Better approach: Document quietly, let your attorney make first contact

MISTAKE #3: Signing University “Resolutions”

What happens: University offers “internal resolution” with small sanction
Why it’s fatal: You may waive right to sue; settlements are minimal
Better approach: “I need my attorney to review this first”

MISTAKE #4: Social Media Posts

What happens: “Everyone should know what they did to my child!”
Why it’s fatal: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Better approach: Private documentation only until case resolves

MISTAKE #5: Waiting for University Investigation

What happens: “Let’s see what the university does first”
Why it’s fatal: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Better approach: Parallel tracks—university process AND legal action

MISTAKE #6: Talking to Insurance Adjusters

What happens: “We just need your statement to process this”
Why it’s fatal: Recorded statements used against you; early lowball offers
Better approach: “My attorney will contact you”

Our video resource: Client mistakes that ruin injury cases

Frequently Asked Questions

“Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and certain other claims. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Each case requires specific analysis—call 1-888-ATTY-911 for case evaluation.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas Education Code § 37.152 makes hazing a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. Otherwise, it’s typically a misdemeanor. Additional charges (assault, furnishing alcohol to minors) may also apply.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Irrelevant. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person hazed consented to the hazing activity.” Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure isn’t valid.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm wasn’t immediately apparent, and fraudulent concealment by defendants may toll (pause) the statute. Time is critical—call immediately. Our statute of limitations video

“What if hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t matter. Texas law covers on-campus and off-campus hazing. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and foreseeability. Major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) succeeded despite off-campus locations.

“Will my child’s name be public?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. We can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. While public accountability sometimes serves justice, we prioritize your family’s privacy.

“How much does this cost?”
Contingency fee—we only get paid if we recover money for you. No upfront costs. How contingency fees work

“We’re in Shackelford County—can you help us?”
Yes. We serve families throughout Texas from our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices. Distance doesn’t prevent effective representation in the digital age. We’ve represented West Texas families in cases against universities statewide.

Why Attorney911 for Shackelford County Hazing Cases

Our Texas-Specific Advantages

Insurance Insider Knowledge (Mr. Lupe Peña’s Background):
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm—he knows exactly how fraternity and university insurers value claims, deploy delay tactics, and fight coverage. When we demand compensation, we’re not guessing—we know their playbook because we used to run it. This insider perspective is invaluable when facing national organizations with sophisticated insurance programs.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience:
Our involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation taught us how to take on billion-dollar defendants with unlimited legal budgets. Universities and national fraternities use the same tactics—delay, deny, defend. We’re not intimidated because we’ve faced worse. We trace failures to root causes: inadequate training, unenforced policies, institutional indifference.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Results:
We’ve recovered millions for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. We work with economists, life care planners, and vocational experts to build comprehensive damage models. When we present a demand, it’s backed by data, not emotion.

Criminal + Civil Dual Capability:
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand both sides of hazing cases. When criminal charges accompany civil claims, we can navigate the interaction strategically. We also advise witnesses and former members with potential criminal exposure.

Digital Evidence Mastery:
Modern hazing lives on smartphones. We work with digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages, trace social media activity, and preserve ephemeral evidence. Our evidence preservation protocols begin within hours of your call.

West Texas Understanding:
We appreciate the values that define Shackelford County families—faith, family, hard work, community. When your child is harmed at college, it feels like a betrayal of everything you’ve taught them. We fight not just for compensation, but for accountability that honors those values.

The Manginello Law Firm Difference

Immediate Response:
When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you reach us directly—not a call center. We understand hazing evidence disappears within days, sometimes hours. Our “Legal Emergency Lawyers™” tagline reflects our commitment to urgent action when it matters most.

Comprehensive Investigation:
We don’t just file a lawsuit and wait. We:

Send evidence preservation letters within 24 hours
Identify ALL potentially liable parties (not just obvious ones)
Subpoena national fraternity records showing prior incidents
Obtain university disciplinary histories
Work with medical experts to document harm
Build a case that forces settlement or wins at trial

Client-Centered Approach:
You’re navigating trauma—we handle the legal burden. We:

Communicate regularly (you won’t wonder what’s happening)
Explain each step in plain English
Respect your privacy concerns
Involve you in major decisions
Provide emotional support alongside legal advocacy

Proven Record Against Institutions:
From BP to major universities to national fraternities, we’ve forced accountability where others avoided it. Our track record matters when defendants evaluate whether to fight or settle.

Your Free Consultation: What to Expect

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911:

Immediate listening: We hear your story without interruption
Preliminary assessment: We identify immediate actions needed
Evidence guidance: We tell you what to preserve and how
Options explained: Criminal reporting, civil action, both, or neither
Cost transparency: Contingency fee—no recovery, no fee
No pressure: Take time to decide after our conversation

What we need from you:

Basic facts (who, what, when, where)
Any evidence already preserved
Medical records if treatment occurred
Your goals (what does justice look like for your family?)

Why act now:

Group chats get deleted within days
Witnesses’ memories fade or get “coordinated”
Universities begin damage control immediately
Statute of limitations is always ticking
Early legal action maximizes settlement leverage

Call to Action for Shackelford County Families

If you’re reading this guide because hazing has touched your family—whether your child attends McMurry University here in Abilene, Texas Tech in Lubbock, or any Texas campus—you don’t have to navigate this alone. The organizations that harmed your child have lawyers, insurance adjusters, and public relations teams working to minimize their liability. You deserve equal firepower.

What makes our hazing practice different:

We’re fighting the fight right now with the Leonel Bermudez case against University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi
We understand Texas universities—their policies, their defenses, their vulnerabilities
We track Greek organizations statewide through our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine
We have insider insurance knowledge from Mr. Lupe Peña’s defense background
We’ve faced billion-dollar defendants in BP Texas City litigation
We serve West Texas values of accountability, family protection, and justice

Your child’s safety and future are at stake. So is prevention for others.

When you hold organizations accountable through litigation, you don’t just seek compensation—you force policy changes, you expose dangerous patterns, and you prevent future harm. The Stone Foltz family’s lawsuit changed Ohio law. The Max Gruver family’s case created Louisiana’s felony hazing statute. The Timothy Piazza tragedy transformed Pennsylvania. Your case could save lives at Texas campuses.

Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation:

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Legal Emergency Lawyers™
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 | lupe@atty911.com

Hablamos Español: Mr. Lupe Peña provides consultations in Spanish
Offices: Houston, Austin, Beaumont—serving all Texas

We represent hazing victims and their families on a contingency fee basis—no recovery, no fee. Time is critical in these cases. Call now before evidence disappears.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Using your phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas statutes of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes that ruin cases: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Firm Resources:

Main website & contact: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Ralph Manginello profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Lupe Peña profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

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