Hazing in Texas: A Complete Guide for Elmendorf Families & Students

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You’re Not Alone

It starts subtly. A text at 3 AM: “Pledge meeting. Be there in 20.” A requirement to carry a “pledge fanny pack” filled with humiliating items. “Optional” workouts that leave your son crawling upstairs, his urine turning brown from muscle breakdown. Forced consumption until vomiting, then immediate sprints. A hose sprayed in the face “like waterboarding.” This isn’t a fictional horror story—it’s exactly what happened to Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi chapter in fall 2025, leading to rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, and a four-day hospitalization.

If you’re a parent in Elmendorf or anywhere across Bexar County, your child might be hours away at UH in Houston, at Texas A&M in College Station, at UT Austin, or at any of Texas’s 96 campuses. What you’re seeing—the exhaustion, the secrecy, the unexplained injuries—might be hazing. And right now, families like yours are facing the same institutional resistance, the same cover-ups, and the same fight for accountability.

This comprehensive guide exists for you. We’ll explain what modern hazing really looks like, how Texas law protects (and sometimes fails) victims, what we’ve learned from national tragedies, and what’s happening on Texas campuses right now. Most importantly, we’ll show you what legal options Elmendorf families have when universities and fraternities prioritize reputation over student safety.

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 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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like Beyond the Stereotypes

For Elmendorf families, understanding hazing means looking beyond the “Animal House” clichés. Modern hazing has evolved into sophisticated patterns of coercion that leave digital footprints and psychological scars.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (Often Dismissed as “Tradition”)
This is where it starts for many Elmendorf students at Texas campuses. It includes forced servitude (“pledge duties” like 24/7 driving, cleaning rooms), social isolation from non-members, mandatory attendance that interferes with academics, and demeaning nicknames or identities. The digital evolution includes constant group chat monitoring, required location sharing via apps like Find My Friends, and social media policing.

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Crossing into Abuse)
This is what we saw in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case: sleep deprivation with 3 AM wake-up calls, forced physical activity beyond safe limits (“smokings” with hundreds of push-ups), public humiliation, and exposure to disgusting conditions. Modern versions include digital humiliation through forced TikTok challenges, livestreamed degradation, and “meme culture” bullying in group chats.

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (Criminal Conduct)
This is where students get seriously injured or die. It includes forced alcohol consumption games (“Big/Little” nights, “Bible study” drinking), physical beatings and paddling, dangerous physical “tests” like blindfolded tackles, sexualized hazing including forced nudity, and exposure to extreme environments. The modern shift involves moving these activities to off-campus Airbnbs or remote properties to avoid university detection.

The Digital Hazing Revolution

Your child’s phone is now both a tool of coercion and potential evidence. Organizations use:

24/7 digital control: GroupMe chats that demand immediate responses at all hours
Social media humiliation: Forced participation in embarrassing TikTok challenges
Geo-tracking enforcement: Required location sharing to prove attendance at hazing events
Evidence destruction coaching: Instructions on how to use disappearing messages and delete evidence

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

While fraternities and sororities dominate headlines, Elmendorf families should know hazing occurs across campus organizations:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural chapters)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC programs (particularly at Texas A&M)
Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer squads)
Spirit and tradition groups (like Texas Cowboys at UT)
Marching bands and performance groups
Some academic and service organizations

The common thread isn’t the type of organization—it’s the combination of tradition, power imbalance, and secrecy that allows abuse to continue.

Texas Hazing Law: What Elmendorf Families Need to Know

Texas has specific laws addressing hazing, but understanding how they work in practice is crucial for Elmendorf families seeking justice.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Foundation

Definition (Simplified): Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act—on or off campus—that endangers a student’s mental or physical health for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in any organization.

Critical elements for Elmendorf families:

Location doesn’t matter: Off-campus houses, Airbnbs, retreats—all covered
Mental OR physical harm: Psychological trauma counts just as much as physical injury
“Reckless” is enough: They don’t need to have intended harm, just disregarded obvious risks
Consent is NOT a defense: Texas law explicitly states this in § 37.155

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law

Class B Misdemeanor: Basic 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 criminal exposure:

Failure to report hazing (if you’re a member/officer and knew about it)
Retaliation against someone who reports
Related charges: furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases

Organizational Liability: Holding the System Accountable

Texas law allows organizations themselves to be prosecuted if they authorized or encouraged hazing, or if officers knew and failed to report it. Organizations can face:

Fines up to $10,000 per violation
University revocation of recognition and campus bans

Good-Faith Reporting Protections

Texas provides immunity for good-faith reporting to universities or law enforcement. Many Texas campuses also have medical amnesty policies: if you call 911 for someone in medical distress, you typically won’t face alcohol or drug charges, even if underage.

How Texas Compares to Other States

Texas has solid hazing laws but isn’t the strongest:

Pennsylvania (Piazza Law): Felony hazing more readily, enhanced penalties
Louisiana (Max Gruver Act): Serious felony hazing statute
Ohio (Collin’s Law): Hazing becomes felony when drugs/alcohol cause physical harm
Florida (Chad Meredith Law): Criminalized hazing after drowning death

Texas falls in the middle—adequate but without the high-profile branding of some state reforms. The UH Pi Kappa Phi case could potentially drive similar Texas legislation.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (prosecutor)
Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Burden: Beyond a reasonable doubt
Examples: Hazing charges, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims/families
Goal: Compensation and accountability
Burden: Preponderance of evidence (more likely than not)
Claims: Negligence, wrongful death, emotional distress, negligent supervision

Key point for Elmendorf families: You can pursue civil action even if no criminal charges are filed. The standards of proof are different, and civil cases can target entities (universities, nationals) that might not face criminal charges.

Federal Law Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing more transparently, strengthen prevention, and maintain public hazing data (phased in by 2026).

Title IX: When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger independent of criminal proceedings.

Clery Act: Requires reporting certain campus crimes; hazing incidents involving assault or alcohol crimes may need Clery reporting.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What They Mean for Elmendorf Families

The tragedies that made national headlines aren’t abstract—they’re roadmaps showing how hazing happens, how institutions respond, and what justice can look like.

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: Foreseeable and Preventable

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
The 20-year-old pledge was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” event. He died from alcohol poisoning. Multiple members were convicted, and his family reached a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU).

Takeaway for Elmendorf families: “Big/Little” nights follow predictable scripts. When national organizations know this pattern causes deaths but don’t effectively prevent it, they face massive liability.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
The 19-year-old pledge died during a “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking. His blood alcohol was 0.495%. Multiple members were charged, one convicted of negligent homicide, and Louisiana passed the Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony.

Takeaway for Elmendorf families: Drinking games aren’t innocent fun when they’re mandatory. States enact serious reforms only after tragedy.

Physical and Ritualized Hazing: Brutality Disguised as Tradition

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
The pledge was blindfolded, weighted with a backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a “glass ceiling” ritual at a Pennsylvania retreat. He died from traumatic brain injury. Members delayed calling 911. The national fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter. Pi Delta Psi was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years.

Takeaway for Elmendorf families: Retreats and off-campus locations don’t eliminate liability. National organizations can face criminal prosecution, not just civil suits.

Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the football program over years. Multiple lawsuits followed, head coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired, and Northwestern reached confidential settlements. The university later settled with Fitzgerald confidentially.

Takeaway for Elmendorf families: Hazing isn’t limited to Greek life. Major athletic programs with significant resources can harbor systemic abuse, and coaches/administrators can be held accountable.

What These Cases Mean for Elmendorf

These national cases establish precedents that Texas courts recognize. They show:

Patterns are predictable: The same scenarios repeat across campuses
Institutions know the risks: National fraternities have extensive anti-hazing policies precisely because they’ve seen these outcomes
Cover-ups worsen liability: Delaying medical care or destroying evidence leads to more severe consequences
Multi-million-dollar accountability is possible: From $10M settlements to felony convictions

Texas Universities: Campus-Specific Realities for Elmendorf Families

Elmendorf families have deep connections to Texas’s higher education system. Whether your child attends UTSA in nearby San Antonio, commutes to another Bexar County campus, or ventures farther to UT Austin or Texas A&M, understanding each campus’s hazing landscape is critical.

University of Houston: The Active Battleground

Campus Context for Elmendorf Families:
UH is just a 2.5-hour drive from Elmendorf, making it a common choice for Bexar County students seeking urban education opportunities. Its large Greek system and recent high-profile hazing case make it particularly relevant for Elmendorf families.

The Flagship Case: Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu
Right now, in Harris County courts, Attorney911 represents Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit against the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, the Beta Nu housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders.

What happened (according to the complaint):

Fall 2025 pledge period: Bermudez subjected to “pledge fanny pack” rule with degrading contents
Forced dress codes, hours-long “study/work” blocks, overnight driving duties
Physical hazing: Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, cold-weather exposure in underwear
Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats
Medical catastrophe: Developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, passed brown urine, hospitalized four days
Institutional response: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspended chapter Nov 6; members voted to surrender charter Nov 14; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”

Why this matters for Elmendorf families:
This isn’t historical—it’s active litigation happening right now in Texas. It shows what modern hazing looks like, how quickly medical emergencies develop, and that universities and nationals face serious consequences.

UH’s Greek Landscape:
According to UH’s official roster, Pi Kappa Phi is just one of many fraternities on campus, including Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Chi, and others with national hazing histories.

How a UH Hazing Case Proceeds:

Jurisdiction: Harris County courts (where Attorney911 is based)
Potential defendants: Individuals, local chapter, national HQ, UH, property owners
Evidence sources: UHPD records, university conduct files, national fraternity records

What Elmendorf Families with UH Students Should Do:

Understand that hazing at UH is not hypothetical—it’s actively being litigated
If your child pledges at UH, ask specific questions about “optional” activities
Know that medical emergencies require immediate action—UH has good-faith reporting policies
Evidence preservation is critical: screenshot UH-related group chats immediately

Texas A&M University: Tradition and Risk in College Station

Campus Context for Elmendorf Families:
While farther from Elmendorf, Texas A&M draws students from across Texas, including Bexar County. Its unique Corps of Cadets culture and large Greek system present distinct hazing risks.

Recent A&M Hazing Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):
Two pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The fraternity was suspended for two years, and pledges sued for $1 million.

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023):
A cadet alleged degrading hazing including being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. He sought over $1 million in damages. Texas A&M stated it handled the matter under its rules.

Texas A&M’s Hazing Environment:

Corps of Cadets: Military-style discipline with documented hazing incidents
Greek life: Active IFC and Panhellenic systems with national organizations
Transparency challenges: Less public reporting than UT Austin

What Elmendorf Families with A&M Students Should Know:

Corps hazing is real: Don’t dismiss it as “military discipline”
Off-campus locations: Many A&M hazing incidents occur at houses not owned by university
Medical care urgency: Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) has occurred at A&M from extreme physical hazing
Dual systems: Students in Corps AND fraternities face compounded risks

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Patterns

Campus Context for Elmendorf Families:
UT Austin’s prestige draws top students from Elmendorf and across Texas. Its relatively transparent hazingviolations page provides unique insight into ongoing issues.

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page:
UT maintains one of Texas’s most transparent hazing databases 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 and required to implement new hazing-prevention education.

Texas Wranglers (spirit organization): Sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing.

Pattern Evidence:
UT’s public record shows certain organizations appear repeatedly, demonstrating systemic issues rather than isolated “rogue” incidents.

What Elmendorf Families with UT Students Should Do:

Check the database: Before your child joins an organization, review UT’s hazing violations page
Recognize patterns: Organizations with prior violations are higher risk
Understand probation consequences: Many sanctions involve probation—ask what meaningful changes occurred
Use transparency: UT’s public records can strengthen civil cases by showing prior knowledge

Southern Methodist University: Private Campus Challenges

Campus Context for Elmendorf Families:
SMU’s Dallas location and private university status create different dynamics. Its affluent student body and strong Greek presence present unique hazing risks.

SMU Hazing Incidents:

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

SMU’s Greek Life Reality:

Private university with less public reporting obligation
Strong historical Greek presence with social pressure
Recent efforts include anonymous reporting systems (Real Response)

Special Considerations for Elmendorf Families:

Private vs. public: SMU has fewer transparency requirements than state schools
Social pressure: Affluent environments can increase “prove yourself” mentality
Legal strategy differences: Sovereign immunity doesn’t apply to private universities
Evidence challenges: Fewer public records mean more dependence on discovery in litigation

Baylor University: Faith, Football, and Accountability

Campus Context for Elmendorf Families:
Baylor’s religious identity and recent athletic scandals create a complex environment for hazing accountability.

Baylor Hazing Incidents:

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

Baylor’s Cultural Context:

Recent football sexual assault scandal showed institutional failure patterns
Religious branding can create additional pressure to protect image
Athletic department hazing intersects with broader cultural issues

What Elmendorf Families Should Understand:

Institutional patterns matter: Organizations with prior scandals may have systemic issues
“Zero tolerance” vs. reality: Public statements often differ from internal handling
Religious context: May affect reporting willingness and institutional response
Athletic program risks: Not limited to Greek life

The Greek Ecosystem Around Elmendorf: Public Records Reality

If you’re an Elmendorf parent, you deserve to know who really stands behind the Greek organizations connected to your child. Attorney911 maintains a Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracking over 1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metros. Here’s what that means for your family.

Elmendorf’s Geographic Context in Texas Greek Life

Elmendorf sits in Bexar County, part of the San Antonio-New Braunfels Metropolitan Statistical Area. According to our Cause IQ data, this metro contains 86 Greek-related organizations, including undergraduate chapters, alumni associations, and housing corporations.

Where Elmendorf Families Send Their Kids: Campus Realities

Elmendorf students typically attend:

Local/Regional Campuses:
- University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) – San Antonio, Bexar County
- Texas A&M University-San Antonio – San Antonio, Bexar County
- St. Mary’s University – San Antonio, Bexar County
- Our Lady of the Lake University – San Antonio, Bexar County
- Trinity University – San Antonio, Bexar County
Statewide Hub Campuses (Common for Elmendorf Students):
- University of Texas at Austin (2-hour drive)
- Texas A&M University (3-hour drive)
- University of Houston (2.5-hour drive)
- Baylor University (3-hour drive)
- Texas State University (1-hour drive to San Marcos)

Public Records Directory: Organizations Serving Elmendorf Families

San Antonio Metro Organizations (Examples from IRS B83 and Cause IQ Data):

Sigma Chi Fraternity – Alpha Lambda Chapter
Trinity University, San Antonio, TX 78212
IRS B83 Entity – Undergraduate Chapter

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – San Antonio Alumni Chapter
San Antonio, TX 78205
Cause IQ Metro Listing – Graduate Chapter

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – San Antonio Alumnae Chapter
San Antonio, TX 78208
Cause IQ Metro Listing – Graduate Chapter

Xi Omicron Iota House Association (Chi Omega)
Trinity University, San Antonio, TX 78212
Cause IQ Metro Listing – Housing Corporation

Major Texas University Entities (Where Elmendorf Students Often Join):

Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity – Beta Nu Chapter Housing Corporation Inc
EIN: 462267515 | Frisco, TX 75035
IRS B83 Entity – Housing Corporation
(Connected to UH hazing case)

Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc
EIN: 741380362 | Fort Worth, TX 76147
IRS B83 Entity – Foundation
Cause IQ Metro Overlap – Dallas-Fort Worth

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority
EIN: 364091267 | Waco, TX 76710
IRS B83 Entity – Undergraduate Chapter
Cause IQ Metro Overlap – Multiple metros including Beaumont

What This Directory Means for Elmendorf Families:
These aren’t just social clubs—they’re legal entities with Employer Identification Numbers (EINs), mailing addresses, and often insurance policies. When hazing occurs, these entities may hold liability and insurance coverage. We track them so families don’t start from zero.

National Brands with Texas Presence: Pattern Recognition

Our data shows national organizations appearing across multiple Texas metros and campuses:

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority:

IRS B83 listing in Waco, TX (EIN: 364091267)
Cause IQ listing in Houston metro (Beta Sigma Chapter)
Cause IQ listing in Beaumont metro (Mu Epsilon Chapter)
IRS-Cause IQ brand overlap confirmed

Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity:

IRS B83 listing in Nederland, TX (EIN: 746064445)
Cause IQ listing in Houston metro (Texas District alumni/house corp)
Cause IQ listing in Beaumont metro (Lambda Lambda Chapter at Lamar)

Why Cross-Validated Brands Matter:
When the same national organization has multiple Texas entities, it shows systematic presence across the state. This matters for litigation because:

Prior incidents at one Texas chapter may give notice to nationals about risks at another
Insurance coverage may involve multiple related entities
Pattern evidence becomes stronger across chapters

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Realistic Expectations

When Elmendorf families come to us after a hazing incident, they’re often overwhelmed. Here’s how we systematically build cases for accountability.

Critical Evidence Categories for Modern Hazing Cases

1. Digital Communications (The New Smoking Gun)
estineGroup chats show planning, participation, and cover-up attempts. We pursue:

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage threads with timestamps
Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages (screenshots before deletion)
Discord servers, Slack workspaces used for organization
Fraternity-specific apps with member communications

2. Photo & Video Evidence

Injury documentation: Multiple angles with scale references
Event footage: Photos/videos from hazing events, even those captioned as “fun”
Location evidence: House exteriors, room interiors where hazing occurred
Social media posts: Stories, posts, comments showing events or injuries

3. Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals, “tradition” documents
Emails between officers about activities
National policy materials showing what should have been prevented
Risk management files from national headquarters

4. University Records

Prior conduct files on the same organization
Incident reports to campus police
Clery Act reports showing pattern of incidents
Internal emails among administrators about the organization

5. Medical Documentation

ER/hospital records with hazing context included
Lab results (blood alcohol, toxicology, kidney function for rhabdomyolysis)
Psychological evaluations for PTSD, depression, anxiety
Future care plans for permanent injuries

6. Witness Testimony

Other pledges, former members, roommates, RAs
Bystanders who saw events or aftermath
Medical personnel who treated injuries

Damages: What Families Can Recover in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

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

Non-Economic Damages (Compensating Harm):

Physical pain and suffering from injuries
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in activities they loved

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

Funeral/burial costs
Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided
Loss of companionship, love, guidance
Family members’ emotional suffering

Punitive Damages (When Available):
To punish especially reckless or malicious conduct and deter future hazing. More likely when defendants had prior warnings, engaged in cover-ups, or showed callous indifference.

Realistic Case Timelines and Expectations

Immediate (0-48 hours):

Medical care and evidence preservation
Initial legal consultation
Strategic decisions about reporting

First 30 Days:

Comprehensive evidence gathering
Witness interviews
Preservation letters to prevent evidence destruction
Initial demand to university/fraternity

Months 1-6:

Formal demand packages
Settlement negotiations
Filing lawsuit if necessary
Initial discovery requests

Months 6-24:

Depositions of witnesses, officers, university officials
Expert witness preparation
Mediation attempts
Trial preparation if no settlement

Why Experience Matters:
Fraternities and universities have unlimited legal budgets and experienced defense teams. They know most families will give up. We don’t. Our experience with BP Texas City explosion litigation taught us how to fight billion-dollar defendants. Our insurance insider knowledge (from Mr. Lupe Peña’s defense background) means we know their playbook.

Practical Guides for Elmendorf Families, Students, and Witnesses

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Elmendorf Student May Be Hazed:

Physical Signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food/water restriction
Sleep deprivation (calls at 3 AM, inability to sleep)
Chemical burns or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if they don’t normally drink)

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and old friends
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive when asked about the organization
Fear of “letting the chapter down”
Talking about “just getting through this”

Academic Red Flags:

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

Digital/Social Behavior:

Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
Anxiety when phone buzzes
Deleting messages obsessively
Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response
Geo-location tracking apps newly installed

How to Talk to Your Child (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?”

If Your Child Opens Up:

Listen without judgment
Prioritize safety over “not making waves”
Document what they tell you (date, time, details)
Preserve any evidence they show you
Contact an attorney for guidance

For Students: Self-Assessment and Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Quick Self-Check:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this?

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

How to Exit Safely:

If in immediate danger: Call 911
Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend)
Send written notice: “I am resigning my membership effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where they might pressure you
If fearing retaliation, report that fear to Dean of Students and campus police

Evidence Collection (While It’s Happening):

Screenshots of group chats with timestamps visible
Voice memos/recordings (Texas is one-party consent state)
Photos of injuries immediately and over several days
Save everything digital – don’t delete even if embarrassed
Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

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

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly
What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
What to do instead: Document everything, then 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 far below value
What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing

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

5. Letting Your Child Go Back to “One Last Meeting”
What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt the case
What to do instead: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer

6. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”
What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

7. 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 Elmendorf Families

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity protections but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals personally. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity 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 it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

“Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and fear of exclusion isn’t true voluntary consent.

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

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

Why Attorney911 for Elmendorf 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 (Mr. Lupe Peña):
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
Fight coverage under intentional act exclusions
Deploy Independent Medical Exams to reduce settlements
We know their playbook because we used to run it.

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello):
Ralph was one of the few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation against billion-dollar defendants. That experience directly applies to taking on national fraternities and universities with unlimited legal budgets. We’re not intimidated by their resources—we’re experienced in defeating them.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience:
We’ve recovered millions for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. We work with economists to value lifetime care needs, lost earning capacity, and comprehensive damages. We don’t settle cheap—we build cases that force real accountability.

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise:
Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) signals elite criminal defense capability. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation and can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure.

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Data-Driven Advocacy

While other firms start from zero, we begin with data. Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks:

1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros, including:

125 IRS-registered Texas entities with EINs and addresses
96 Texas university campuses and their Greek ecosystems
Metro-level organization mapping showing statewide patterns
Brand overlap analysis proving national presence across Texas

This means when an Elmendorf family comes to us, we already understand:

What organizations operate at their child’s campus
What national histories those organizations have
What insurance entities and housing corporations may hold liability
What prior incidents may exist at that chapter or nationally

How We Investigate Hazing Cases for Elmendorf Families

Phase 1: Immediate Evidence Preservation (0-48 hours)

Guide families through proper screenshot and documentation
Send preservation letters to prevent evidence destruction
Secure digital forensics if needed for deleted content
Identify and contact key witnesses before they’re coached

Phase 2: Comprehensive Discovery (Days 3-30)

Subpoena university conduct records and prior incident reports
Obtain national fraternity risk management files
Retrieve deleted messages through forensic recovery
Interview witnesses and former members

Phase 3: Strategic Case Development (Months 1-6)

Work with medical experts to document full injury impact
Consult economists for damages calculation
Analyze insurance coverage across all potential defendants
Develop settlement strategy or trial preparation

Phase 4: Resolution Through Settlement or Trial

Negotiate from strength with full evidence compiled
Prepare for trial if settlement inadequate
Ensure any settlement includes institutional reform where possible
Protect family privacy throughout process

Why Elmendorf Families Choose Attorney911

Local Understanding with Statewide Reach:
While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas, including Elmendorf in Bexar County. We understand Texas courts, Texas laws, and Texas university systems. Whether your case is in Harris County (UH), Travis County (UT), Brazos County (Texas A&M), or Bexar County (UTSA), we have the experience and resources to help.

Spanish-Language Services Available:
Mr. Lupe Peña speaks fluent Spanish. For Elmendorf’s Hispanic families, we provide consultations and representation in Spanish. Se habla Español.

“No Fee Unless We Win” Commitment:
We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This makes quality legal representation accessible to all families, regardless of financial situation.

Proven Track Record Against Powerful Defendants:
From BP Texas City to national fraternities, we’ve faced billion-dollar defendants and won. We don’t back down from fights that matter.

Call to Action for Elmendorf Families

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether UTSA nearby in San Antonio, UH in Houston, Texas A&M in College Station, UT Austin, or any other Texas university—we want to hear from you.

Families in Elmendorf, across Bexar County, and throughout Texas have the right to answers and accountability. What happened to your child wasn’t “tradition,” wasn’t “voluntary,” and wasn’t acceptable. It was hazing—and Texas law provides pathways to justice.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation

What to expect in your free consultation:

We’ll listen to your story without judgment
Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain your legal options: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
Answer your questions about costs (contingency fee—we don’t get paid unless we win)
No pressure to hire us on the spot—take time to decide
Everything you tell us is confidential

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) or lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña)

Spanish-Language Services:
Hablamos Español. Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish.

Whether you’re in Elmendorf or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions involved have lawyers protecting their interests—you deserve the same protection.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s discuss what happened, your legal rights under Texas law, and how we can help your family find answers and accountability.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Lawsuit:
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/
https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
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:
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 & Contact:
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
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