Hazing at San Jacinto County, Texas Universities: A Legal Guide for Families

Your Child Was Hurt During Pledging. Here’s What San Jacinto County Families Need to Know.

For parents in San Jacinto County, the call every family dreads might start with “Mom, Dad… something happened at school.” Your child—a student at University of Houston, Texas A&M, or another Texas campus—joined a fraternity, sorority, Corps program, or athletic team to find community. Instead, they found humiliation, pain, and trauma masked as “tradition” or “bonding.”

Right now, in Texas, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in the country. We represent Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who nearly died from hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. As detailed in the Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case and ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit, Bermudez was subjected to extreme physical abuse, forced consumption of food until vomiting, and hours-long workouts that gave him rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure. He passed brown urine, was hospitalized for four days, and faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.

This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s proof of what can—and does—happen at Texas universities where San Jacinto County families send their children. This comprehensive guide explains what modern hazing looks like, Texas law, national patterns, and what your family’s legal options are if your child has been hurt during initiation or membership activities.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES – SAN JACINTO COUNTY FAMILIES:

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 your 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

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

For San Jacinto County families whose college experience might have been decades ago, modern hazing has evolved far beyond “pranks” or “initiation rituals.” Today’s hazing combines physical abuse, psychological manipulation, and digital control in ways that can cause permanent injury or death.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (Psychological Control)

Digital surveillance: Pledges required to share live location via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
24/7 availability: Constant group chat demands with immediate response requirements
Servitude duties: Acting as designated drivers at all hours, cleaning members’ rooms, running personal errands
Social isolation: Being cut off from non-members, requiring permission to socialize with friends or family

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Physical and Emotional Abuse)

Sleep deprivation: Late-night “meetings,” 3 AM wake-up calls for mandatory activities
Forced consumption: Eating spoiled food, drinking excessive amounts of milk or other substances until vomiting
Extreme exercise: “Smokings” with hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse, sprints in extreme weather
Public humiliation: Wearing degrading costumes in public, performing embarrassing acts for social media

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (Life-Threatening Abuse)

Forced alcohol consumption: “Big/Little” nights with handles of liquor, drinking games where wrong answers mean more drinks
Physical beatings: Paddling, punching, kicking – often framed as “tradition”
Dangerous physical tests: Blindfolded tackle rituals (“glass ceiling”), forced fights, swimming while intoxicated
Sexualized hazing: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault
Chemical exposure: Texas A&M SAE case where pledges were covered in industrial-strength cleaner causing chemical burns requiring skin grafts

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

Hazing isn’t limited to fraternities. At Texas universities, it occurs in:

Fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural chapters)
Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs
Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer)
Spirit organizations (Texas Cowboys, Texas Aggie Bonfire alumni groups)
Marching bands and performance groups
Academic and service organizations

The common thread isn’t the type of organization – it’s the abuse of power, the secrecy, and the pattern of older members putting new members through what they endured.

Texas Hazing Law: What San Jacinto County Families Need to Know

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws in the Education Code that apply whether hazing happens on-campus or off-campus. Understanding these laws is crucial for San Jacinto County families navigating a hazing situation.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hazing Statute

§ 37.151: Definition of Hazing
Hazing means 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 for San Jacinto County families:

Can happen anywhere – location doesn’t matter
Can be mental or physical harm
“Reckless” is enough – they don’t have to intend harm, just be reckless about the risk
“Consent” is NOT a defense (see § 37.155 below)

§ 37.152: Criminal Penalties

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000)
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

§ 37.155: Consent Not a Defense
It is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the hazing activity. This is critical – even if your child “agreed” to participate, it’s still a crime if it meets the hazing definition.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State)

Purpose: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Charges can include: Hazing, assault, battery, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter in fatal cases
Who brings it: District Attorney or County Attorney
Standard of proof: Beyond a reasonable doubt

Civil Cases (Brought by Victims/Families)

Purpose: Compensation and accountability
Claims can include: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
Who brings it: Victim or surviving family through attorneys like us
Standard of proof: Preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not)

Both can happen simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t required to pursue a civil case. In fact, many hazing cases involve parallel criminal prosecutions and civil lawsuits.

Federal Laws Overlaying Texas Hazing Cases

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently
Strengthens hazing education and prevention
Phased implementation through 2026

Title IX

Triggered when hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility
Creates additional obligations for universities to investigate and respond

Clery Act

Requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics
Hazing incidents often overlap with assault, alcohol, or drug crimes that must be reported

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat at Texas Universities

The hazing that hurt Leonel Bermudez at UH follows patterns seen in fatal cases nationwide. These cases show how predictable – and preventable – hazing injuries are.

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Common Fatal Pattern

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

20-year-old pledge forced to consume entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
$10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Chapter president ordered to pay $6.5 million personally

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Pledge forced to participate in “Bible study” drinking game
Answer questions incorrectly = forced drinking
Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
Led to Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony in Louisiana

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

Pledge died from acute alcohol poisoning during “Big Brother Night”
Pledges given handles of hard liquor
FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life

What this means for Texas families: These weren’t accidents. They were predictable outcomes of forced drinking rituals that universities and national fraternities knew about but failed to stop.

Physical and Ritualized Hazing: Extreme Violence Masquerading as Tradition

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

Pledge blindfolded, weighted down with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
Died from traumatic brain injury; fraternity members delayed calling 911
Pi Delta Psi banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter

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

Pledge forced to consume excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal” night
Suffered severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
Settlements with 22 defendants, reportedly multi-million dollar total

What this means for Texas families: The “traditions” defended as “bonding” can cause lifelong disability or death. Organizations that allow these rituals face massive liability.

Athletic Program Hazing: Not Just Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Multiple lawsuits; head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired and later settled wrongful-termination suit
Demonstrates hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs

Western Kentucky University Swim Team (2012–2015)

Investigation revealed hazing dating back to at least 2012
Entire swim program placed on five-year suspension; coaching staff terminated
Settlement with former team member for $75,000

What These National Cases Mean for San Jacinto County Families

Patterns repeat: The same hazing methods that killed students elsewhere are used at Texas universities
Institutions knew: National fraternities and universities had prior warnings about these dangerous practices
Settlements are substantial: Families have recovered millions in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases
Individual accountability: Chapter officers can face personal liability beyond organizational responsibility
Legal reforms follow tragedy: Major cases often lead to new laws (Max Gruver Act, Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law)

Texas University Focus: Where San Jacinto County Families Send Their Children

San Jacinto County families have deep connections to Texas higher education. Whether your child attends nearby schools like Lone Star College or major universities hours away, understanding campus-specific hazing environments is crucial.

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: A Complex Web of Organizations

Using our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine – built from IRS public records, university data, and organizational filings – we maintain comprehensive data on Texas’s Greek landscape:

Statewide Scope:

1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metros
125+ Texas-registered organizations in IRS B83 filings (fraternities, sororities, housing corporations)
96 Texas university campuses with varying Greek presence

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro (includes San Jacinto County area):

188 Greek-related organizations in the metro area
Includes University of Houston chapters, alumni groups, housing corporations
Sample organizations from public records:
- Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Houston, TX (IRS EIN 746064445)
- Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae – Houston, TX
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Alpha Kappa Omega – Houston, TX (grad chapter)
- Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity – Eta Rho Sigma – Houston, TX (grad chapter)
- Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Beta Sigma Chapter – Houston, TX (undergrad chapter)

Where San Jacinto County Students Attend:

Local/Regional Options: Lone Star College, Sam Houston State University (Huntsville), Stephen F. Austin State University (Nacogdoches)
Major Texas Hubs: University of Houston, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, Baylor University, Sam Houston State University
Common Greek Life Destinations: Fraternities and sororities at these schools draw from San Jacinto County’s student population

University of Houston: The Current Front Line in Texas Hazing Litigation

Why UH Matters to San Jacinto County Families:

90-minute drive from San Jacinto County to UH main campus
Major destination for East Texas students
Active Greek life with multiple hazing incidents

The Leonel Bermudez Case – What Happened:
As we detailed in the opening, our client Leonel Bermudez suffered catastrophic injuries during his fall 2025 pledge period with Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. The lawsuit alleges:

Specific Hazing Acts:

“Pledge fanny pack” rule: Carried 24/7 containing condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices, humiliating items
Forced consumption: Milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting, then immediate sprints
Physical abuse: Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, “save-your-brother” drills
Waterboarding simulation: Sprayed in face with hose “similar to waterboarding”
Extreme workouts: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion
Hog-tying incident: Another pledge tied face-down on table with object in mouth for over an hour

Medical Catastrophe:

Developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown)
Acute kidney failure requiring four-day hospitalization
Passed brown urine, couldn’t stand without help
Critically high creatine kinase levels confirming muscle and kidney damage
Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage

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 statement: Conduct “deeply disturbing,” promises disciplinary measures up to expulsion, cooperation with law enforcement

UH Greek Life Landscape:
Based on official UH Greek Life rosters, these organizations operate on campus:

Interfraternity Council (IFC) Fraternities:
Alpha Epsilon Pi, Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Delta Upsilon, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Lambda Phi Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Sigma Pi, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Theta Chi

National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC – Divine Nine):
Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alpha Phi Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Iota Phi Theta, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, Sigma Gamma Rho, Zeta Phi Beta

UH Hazing History Beyond Pi Kappa Phi:

2016 Pi Kappa Alpha case: Pledge suffered lacerated spleen after being slammed onto table during multi-day event with food/water/sleep deprivation
Chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and university suspension
Other fraternities suspended for “behavior likely to produce mental or physical discomfort”

What UH Families Should Do:

Report immediately: Dean of Students Office, UHPD, online reporting forms
Document everything: UH has multiple Greek organizations with varying risk profiles
Request prior incident reports: UH maintains conduct files that can show patterns
Understand jurisdiction: Cases may involve UHPD, Houston Police Department, or Harris County Sheriff depending on location

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life Intersection

Why Texas A&M Matters to San Jacinto County Families:

Major university drawing from across Texas, including East Texas counties
Strong Corps of Cadets tradition with documented hazing issues
- 2023 Corps lawsuit: Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth; sought over $1 million
- A&M stated it handled matter under its rules

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

Two pledges alleged forced strenuous activity
Substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, spit poured on them
Caused severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
Pledges sued fraternity for $1 million
Fraternity suspended for two years by university

Texas A&M Greek Life Landscape:
Collegiate Panhellenic Council Sororities:
Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Epsilon Phi, Alpha Omicron Pi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Delta Zeta, Gamma Phi Beta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Delta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, Zeta Tau Alpha

Interfraternity Council Fraternities:
Alpha Gamma Rho, Alpha Sigma Phi, Alpha Tau Omega, Beta Theta Pi, Delta Tau Delta, Kappa Alpha Order, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Lambda Phi Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, Phi Gamma Delta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Theta Chi

What A&M Families Should Know:

Dual systems: Both Greek life and Corps of Cadets have documented hazing issues
Transparency varies: A&M’s public hazing disclosures less extensive than UT Austin’s
Legal venues: Cases may involve College Station PD, Brazos County courts, or university conduct system
Corps-specific issues: Military-style hierarchy can exacerbate power imbalances in hazing

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Repeated Violations

Why UT Austin Matters to San Jacinto County Families:

Flagship university drawing top students from across Texas
Most transparent hazing reporting among Texas universities
Documented pattern of violations despite public disclosure

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page:
UT maintains a public database at hazing.utexas.edu showing:

Recent Violations (Examples):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter placed on probation with required hazing-prevention education
Texas Wranglers (spirit organization): Sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing
Multiple other fraternities and sororities with probation, suspension, or educational sanctions

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (January 2024):

Australian exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members at party
Injuries included dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
Student sued SAE chapter for over $1 million
Chapter already under suspension for prior hazing/safety violations

UT Greek Life Landscape:
University Panhellenic Council Sororities:
Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Epsilon Phi, Alpha Phi, Alpha Xi Delta, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Delta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, Sigma Delta Tau, Zeta Tau Alpha

Interfraternity Council Fraternities:
Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Lambda Phi Epsilon, Omega Delta Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Tau Kappa Epsilon

What UT Families Should Do:

Check the database: UT’s public hazing violations page shows which organizations have prior incidents
Use transparency: Prior violations support civil cases by showing patterns and institutional knowledge
Report strategically: UT has multiple reporting channels but also institutional incentives to protect reputation
Consider venue: Cases may involve UTPD, Austin PD, or Travis County courts

Southern Methodist University: Private University Challenges

Why SMU Matters to San Jacinto County Families:

Private university with affluent student population
Strong Greek life presence
Different legal considerations as private institution

Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017):

New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep
Chapter suspended; restrictions on recruiting until around 2021

SMU Greek Life Landscape:
Panhellenic Council Sororities:
Alpha Chi Omega, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Gamma Phi Beta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi

Interfraternity Council Fraternities:
Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Alpha Order, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi

What SMU Families Should Know:

Private university dynamics: Different reporting requirements and transparency than public schools
Reputation protection: SMU may be particularly concerned about scandal given its private, affluent branding
Legal strategy: May involve different insurance policies, defense approaches than public universities

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Historical Scrutiny

Why Baylor Matters to San Jacinto County Families:

Religious-affiliated university with distinct culture
History of scrutiny over football and Title IX issues
Greek life integrated with religious identity

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020):

14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Suspensions staggered over early season

Baylor Greek Life Landscape:
Panhellenic Council Sororities:
Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Phi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, Zeta Tau Alpha

Interfraternity Council Fraternities:
Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Chi

What Baylor Families Should Consider:

Religious context: Baylor’s Christian identity may affect how hazing is perceived and addressed
Prior scandals: University’s handling of football sexual assault scandal sets precedent for institutional response
Legal approach: May involve arguments about religious exemption or distinctive community standards

Fraternity and Sorority National Histories: Patterns That Predict Texas Incidents

The organizations at Texas universities aren’t local clubs – they’re chapters of national organizations with documented hazing histories across the country. These patterns matter because they show foreseeability: national headquarters knew or should have known their chapters were at risk for specific types of hazing.

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) – At UH, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor

National history: Stone Foltz death (BGSU, 2021) – $10M settlement; David Bogenberger death (NIU, 2012) – $14M settlement
Texas presence: Chapters at all major Texas universities
Pattern: Big/Little alcohol hazing, forced drinking rituals

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) – At UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU

National history: Multiple hazing deaths nationwide; traumatic brain injury case (Alabama, 2023); chemical burns case (Texas A&M, 2021)
Texas pattern: Physical hazing, chemical exposure, assault cases at multiple Texas campuses
Liability angle: National SAE had prior knowledge of these dangerous practices

Pi Kappa Phi – At UH, Texas A&M, UT

National history: Andrew Coffey death (FSU, 2017) – led to FSU Greek life suspension
Current Texas case: Our Leonel Bermudez lawsuit against UH chapter
Pattern: Physical hazing, forced consumption, extreme workouts

Phi Delta Theta – At UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

National history: Max Gruver death (LSU, 2017) – led to Louisiana felony hazing law
Pattern: Drinking games, forced alcohol consumption

Kappa Alpha Order – At Texas A&M, SMU

National history: Hazing suspensions including SMU chapter (2017)
Pattern: Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation

Why National Histories Matter in Texas Lawsuits

When we represent hazing victims, we investigate not just what happened locally, but what the national organization knew about similar incidents elsewhere. This establishes:

1. Foreseeability

National knew their chapters elsewhere had same hazing problems
Failed to implement effective prevention measures
Continued to collect dues and support chapters despite known risks

2. Negligent Supervision

National policies were window-dressing, not enforced
Prior incidents resulted in minimal punishment (brief suspensions, probation)
Training focused on avoiding liability, not preventing harm

3. Pattern and Practice

Same hazing methods used across multiple chapters
National failed to intervene despite pattern evidence
Created culture where hazing was tolerated or expected

4. Punitive Damages Basis

Reckless disregard for known dangers
Prioritized expansion and reputation over student safety
Systematic failure to address documented problems

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and What San Jacinto County Families Can Expect

If your child has been hazed, building a strong case requires immediate action and strategic thinking. Here’s what the process looks like.

Critical Evidence That Wins Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important Category):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, fraternity apps – screenshot EVERYTHING immediately
Social media: Instagram stories, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook – even disappearing content can sometimes be recovered
Texts/DMs: Save entire conversations with timestamps and participant names
Location data: Geo-tags, Find My Friends sharing, Snapchat Maps
Photos/videos: Content filmed during hazing, even if “just for fun”

Medical Documentation:

ER/hospital records: Must specify “hazing” or “forced” in medical history
Lab results: Blood alcohol, toxicology, kidney function (creatine kinase for rhabdomyolysis)
Imaging: X-rays, CT scans, MRIs showing injuries
Psychological evaluation: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses

Physical Evidence:

Clothing with stains, tears, or blood
Paddles, props, alcohol bottles used in hazing
Receipts for forced purchases (alcohol, costumes, gifts)

Institutional Records:

University files: Prior conduct reports, probation letters, suspension notices
National fraternity records: Incident reports, risk management files, training materials
Police reports: Campus PD, local PD, sheriff’s office

Witness Information:

Other pledges who experienced same hazing
Former members who quit due to hazing
Roommates, friends, RAs who observed changes or injuries

The Investigative Process

Phase 1: Immediate Evidence Preservation (First 48 Hours)

Digital forensics to recover deleted messages
Medical record collection and analysis
Witness interviews before memories fade or stories align
Preservation letters to universities and organizations demanding evidence not be destroyed

Phase 2: Institutional Discovery (Weeks 1-4)

Public records requests to universities for prior incident reports
Investigation of national organization’s hazing history at other chapters
Identification of all potential defendants (individuals, chapters, nationals, universities, property owners)
Insurance coverage investigation

Phase 3: Case Development (Months 1-6)

Expert consultations: medical experts, psychologists, economists, Greek life culture experts
Damage calculation: medical costs, future care, lost earning capacity, pain and suffering
Legal strategy: criminal referral considerations, civil claim drafting, settlement vs. trial analysis

Types of Damages in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable):

Medical expenses: Past and future care, including lifelong needs for catastrophic injuries
Lost income/earning capacity: Missed semesters, delayed career entry, reduced earning potential
Educational costs: Tuition for withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships, transfer expenses

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real):

Physical pain and suffering: From injuries, medical procedures, ongoing pain
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation, trauma
Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in activities they once loved

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

Funeral/burial costs
Loss of financial support: Deceased’s expected lifetime contributions
Loss of companionship, love, society: For parents, siblings, spouse
Grief and emotional suffering

Punitive Damages (When Appropriate):

Punish defendants for reckless or malicious conduct
Deter future hazing
Available when defendants knew dangers but failed to act

Settlement vs. Trial: What to Expect

Most Cases Settle (Confidentially)

Advantages: Faster resolution, privacy, certainty
Disadvantages: May require nondisclosure agreements, may be less than trial verdict
Settlement amounts in major hazing cases: $1M-$14M+ depending on injury severity

Trial Considerations

Advantages: Public accountability, potentially higher awards, establishing legal precedent
Disadvantages: Lengthy process, public exposure, uncertainty
Trial verdicts in hazing cases: $6.1M (Max Gruver), $12.6M (Chad Meredith), $10M+ (Sigma Chi College of Charleston)

Factors Affecting Case Value:

Injury severity (death, permanent disability, significant injury)
Evidence strength (documented hazing, prior incidents, cover-up attempts)
Defendant resources (university, national fraternity, insurance coverage)
Jurisdiction (Texas vs. other states with different laws)
Public relations pressure on institutions

Practical Guide for San Jacinto County Families: What to Do Right Now

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Financial strain (forced purchases, “fines,” excessive alcohol costs)
Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
Academic decline (missing classes, dropping grades)

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally):

“How are things going with [organization]? 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?”

If You Suspect Hazing: Immediate Action Steps

Prioritize safety: If in danger, call 911, then get medical attention
Document everything: Write down what your child tells you with dates/times
Preserve evidence: Screenshot messages, photograph injuries, save physical items
Contact a lawyer: Before talking to university or organization
Do NOT: Confront the organization, sign anything, post on social media, let evidence be deleted

For Students: Your Rights and Safety

Is This Hazing? Decision Questions:

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?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

If you answer YES to any, it’s likely hazing.

How to Exit Safely:

Immediate danger: Call 911 or campus police
Wanting to quit: Send email/text to chapter president: “I resign my pledge/membership effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where they might pressure or retaliate
If fearing retaliation: Report to Dean of Students and campus police

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

Cannot be punished for calling 911 in medical emergency (good-faith reporter immunity)
Hazing is a crime; you are the victim even if you “agreed”
Can file civil lawsuit even if no criminal charges
Can request no-contact order if being harassed after reporting

Evidence Collection for Students:

Screenshots: Group chats with timestamps and participant names
Recordings: Texas is one-party consent state – you can record conversations you’re part of
Photos/videos: Injuries immediately and over days, locations, objects used
Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
Witness information: Names/contact info for others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

MISTAKE #1: Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Why wrong: Looks like cover-up, can be obstruction of justice, makes case nearly impossible
What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly

Why wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
What to do instead: Document everything, call lawyer before any confrontation

MISTAKE #3: Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms

Why wrong: May waive right to sue; settlements often far below case value
What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

MISTAKE #4: Posting details on social media before talking to lawyer

Why wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
What to do instead: Document privately; let lawyer control public messaging

MISTAKE #5: Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”

Why wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt case
What to do instead: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through lawyer

MISTAKE #6: Waiting “to see how the university handles it”

Why wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

MISTAKE #7: Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer

Why wrong: Recorded statements used against you; early settlements are lowball
What to do instead: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for San Jacinto County Families

Q: Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?
A: 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.

Q: Is hazing a felony in Texas?
A: 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.

Q: Can my child bring a case if they “agreed” to the initiation?
A: 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.

Q: How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?
A: Generally 2 years from date of injury or death in Texas, but “discovery rule” may extend if harm or cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups, statute may be tolled. Time is critical – call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

Q: What if hazing happened off-campus or at private house?
A: Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

Q: Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in news?
A: 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.

Why Attorney911 for San Jacinto County 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. As the firm leading the Leonel Bermudez case against University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi, we bring unique qualifications to Texas hazing litigation.

Our Texas Hazing Litigation Advantage

Insurance Insider Knowledge (Mr. Lupe Peña’s Defense Background)
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
Their entire settlement playbook

We know their strategies because we used to run them. Now we use that knowledge to secure maximum compensation for victims.

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello’s Experience)

BP Texas City explosion litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendants
Federal court experience: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas admission
Not intimidated: By national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams
Proven capability: Against the largest institutional defendants Texas has seen

We’ve taken on corporations with deeper pockets than any fraternity or university. We know how to build cases that force accountability.

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 brain injury, permanent disability cases
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
Navigates parallel criminal and civil proceedings

Investigative Depth Unmatched in Texas

Digital forensics experts: Recover deleted messages, social media evidence
Medical experts: Document rhabdomyolysis, kidney damage, PTSD, traumatic brain injury
Greek life culture experts: Understand group dynamics, coercion patterns
Economists: Calculate lifetime damages for catastrophic injuries
Institutional investigators: Uncover prior incidents, cover-up attempts

Texas-Specific Geographic Mastery

Offices in Houston, Austin, Beaumont – covering Texas’s major regions
Deep understanding of Texas courts, procedures, and jurisdictional issues
Experience with Texas public university immunity arguments
Knowledge of Texas-specific damages caps and exceptions

Our Approach: Empathy Meets Aggressive Advocacy

We understand this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our approach balances:

For Your Family:

Confidential, compassionate consultation
Clear communication about process and expectations
Respect for your child’s privacy and dignity
Support through medical and psychological recovery

For Your Case:

Immediate evidence preservation before deletion
Thorough investigation of all responsible parties
Aggressive pursuit of maximum compensation
Willingness to take cases to trial when settlements are inadequate
Focus on accountability and prevention, not just money

Our Promise to San Jacinto County Families:

We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does
We never take shortcuts in building your case
We’re not afraid to take on the biggest universities and national organizations
We prioritize preventing future harm as much as securing compensation

Call to Action: San Jacinto County’s Hazing Legal Resource

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether here in San Jacinto County or at universities across the state—we want to hear from you. Families in San Jacinto County and throughout East Texas have the right to answers and accountability.

Your Free, Confidential Consultation

What to expect when you call 1-888-ATTY-911:

We listen without judgment: Tell us what happened in your own words
Evidence review: We’ll examine any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
Legal options explained: Criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Realistic assessment: Timelines, challenges, potential outcomes
Questions answered: Everything you want to know about the process
No pressure: Take time to decide; we never pressure immediate hiring
Confidentiality protected: Everything you tell us is protected

Our contact information:

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 (Ralph Manginello), lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña)

Spanish-language services:

Hablamos Español – Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish
Servicios legales en español disponibles para familias hispanas

About Our Fee Structure

Contingency fee basis: We don’t get paid unless we win your case
No upfront costs: You pay nothing to begin your case
Transparent expenses: We explain all costs and how they’re handled
Free initial consultation: Absolutely no charge to discuss your case

Additional Educational Resources

Attorney911 YouTube Videos for Hazing Families:

Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case – Critical DOs and DON’Ts
Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case? – Texas deadlines explained
How Do Contingency Fees Work? – No upfront cost explanation
Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case – Evidence preservation guide

Our Practice Areas Supporting Hazing Litigation:

Wrongful Death: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal Defense: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
Personal Injury: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/

Final Word for San Jacinto County Families

The hazing that hurt Leonel Bermudez at UH wasn’t unique. It follows patterns we’ve seen nationwide and at Texas campuses for years. Universities and national fraternities know these dangers exist but often prioritize reputation over student safety.

Your child didn’t deserve what happened to them. They joined an organization seeking community and found trauma instead. You have the right to hold every responsible party accountable—the individuals who planned and carried out the hazing, the chapter that allowed it, the national organization that failed to supervise, and the university that failed to protect.

Whether you’re in Coldspring, Shepherd, or anywhere in San Jacinto County, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. We’ve helped Texas families through this before. We’re fighting the Leonel Bermudez case right now. We’re ready to help you too.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s get your child the justice and protection they deserve.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Lawsuit

Click2Houston (KPRC 2) 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 Eyewitness News (KTRK) 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 YouTube Videos

Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
How Do Contingency Fees Work?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc
Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

Attorney911 Main Website & Practice Areas

Main Website & Contact: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful Death Practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal Defense Practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
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 (Ralph Manginello), lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña)