The Complete Guide to Hazing Lawsuits in Texas for Fair Oaks Ranch & Comal County Families

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

Imagine this scenario: your son or daughter, excited about starting college life at Texas State University in San Marcos or the University of Texas at San Antonio, decides to join a fraternity or sorority. They want to build friendships and campus connections. Then the texts start coming in at odd hours. They’re exhausted all the time. They come home to Fair Oaks Ranch with unexplained bruises or seem emotionally distant. When you ask what’s happening, they brush it off as “just tradition” or “what everyone goes through.” But something feels wrong.

For parents in Fair Oaks Ranch, Bulverde, Spring Branch, and throughout Comal and Bexar Counties, this scenario isn’t hypothetical. It’s happening right now to Texas families. At this very moment, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history—representing Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. His story is a stark warning for every Texas family.

Understanding Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

Hazing has evolved far beyond the stereotypes of simple pranks or “boys will be boys” behavior. Today’s hazing involves sophisticated digital control, psychological manipulation, and dangerous physical rituals disguised as “tradition” or “team building.”

The Modern Hazing Spectrum

Digital Hazing & Psychological Control

24/7 Group Chat Monitoring: Pledges required to respond instantly to messages at all hours, with failure resulting in punishment
Location Tracking: Mandatory use of Find My Friends or Life360 so members can track pledges’ movements
Social Media Humiliation: Forced to post embarrassing content on TikTok, Instagram, or Snapchat
Sleep Deprivation via Technology: Constant midnight texts, 3 AM wake-up calls through group chats

Physical Hazing Disguised as “Wellness”

Extreme Workouts: “Conditioning” sessions involving hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse, or dangerous calisthenics
Food/Water Manipulation: Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, or other substances until vomiting
Environmental Exposure: Being left outside in cold weather with minimal clothing, or locked in uncomfortable spaces

The Most Dangerous: Alcohol & Substance Hazing

Forced Consumption Games: “Bible study,” “family tree,” or trivia games where wrong answers mean forced drinking
Big/Little Nights: New members given handles of liquor and pressured to finish them
Lineup Challenges: Competitive drinking with rapid consumption requirements

The Leonel Bermudez Case: A Texas Reality Check

Right now, we’re actively litigating a case that shows exactly what modern hazing looks like. Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, suffered catastrophic injuries during his Pi Kappa Phi pledge period in fall 2025. The hazing included:

Humiliating “Pledge Fanny Pack” Requirements: Forced to carry condoms, sex toys, and nicotine devices 24/7
Extreme Physical Abuse: Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, and “save-your-brother” drills
Simulated Waterboarding: Sprayed in the face with a hose while threats of actual waterboarding were made
Forced Consumption Rituals: Made to drink milk and eat hot dogs with peppercorns until vomiting, then forced to immediately run sprints
The November 3 Workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion from the pledge class

The result? Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure. His urine turned brown, he couldn’t stand without help, and he was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels. He now faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter was suspended on November 6, 2025, and members voted to surrender their charter on November 14. The University of Houston called the conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary action up to expulsion.

This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s part of a pattern occurring across Texas campuses, including those where Fair Oaks Ranch families send their children.

Texas Hazing Law: What Comal County Families Need to Know

Texas has specific laws addressing hazing, but many families don’t understand how they work or what protections they offer.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hazing Statute

Definition Under Texas Law
Texas law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that:

Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student
Occurs for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or membership in any organization
Can happen on or off campus
Includes forced consumption of substances, physical brutality, or other activities that adversely affect mental health

Critical Provisions for Fair Oaks Ranch Families

Consent Is Not a Defense (§37.155)
Even if your child “agreed” to participate, it’s still hazing under Texas law. The power imbalance between pledges and members means true consent doesn’t exist.
Criminal Penalties (§37.152)
- 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
Organizational Liability (§37.153)
Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation and lose university recognition.
Good-Faith Reporting Protection (§37.154)
Students who report hazing in good faith are immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from their own involvement.

Federal Laws Overlaying Texas Hazing Cases

The Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
This new federal law requires colleges receiving federal aid to:

Report hazing incidents more transparently
Strengthen hazing education and prevention programs
Maintain public hazing databases (phased in by 2026)

Title IX Implications
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered. This can provide additional legal pathways for accountability.

Clery Act Requirements
Universities must report certain crimes and maintain safety statistics. Hazing incidents that involve assault, alcohol crimes, or other reportable offenses fall under Clery requirements.

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

The tragedies that have made national headlines aren’t distant problems—they’re patterns that repeat at Texas schools. Understanding these cases helps Fair Oaks Ranch families recognize the warning signs.

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Common Fatal Pattern

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
A 20-year-old pledge was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” night. He died from alcohol poisoning. The case resulted in:

$10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Multiple criminal convictions of fraternity members
Strengthened Ohio anti-hazing laws

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
Pledge died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%) during a “Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers meant forced drinking. This led to:

Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
Multiple member prosecutions
Chapter closure

Why This Matters for Texas Families: The same forced drinking rituals that killed Foltz and Gruver are happening at Texas schools. When we see “Big/Little nights” or “drinking games” at UT Austin, Texas A&M, or Texas State, we’re seeing the same deadly script.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing: Beyond Alcohol

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
Pledge died from traumatic brain injury after being blindfolded, weighted with a backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a “glass ceiling” ritual at a Pennsylvania retreat. The results:

National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
Pi Delta Psi banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Multiple members received jail sentences

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)
18-year-old pledge suffered permanent, severe brain damage during a “pledge dad reveal” night involving forced drinking. He now cannot walk, talk, or see and requires 24/7 care. The outcome:

Settlements with 22 defendants
Chapter closure
National example of catastrophic non-fatal hazing injury

Athletic Program Hazing: Not Just Greek Life

Northwestern University Football Program (2023-2025)
Former players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the football program over multiple years. The results:

Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Demonstrated hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs

Texas Universities: Where Fair Oaks Ranch Families Send Their Children

Fair Oaks Ranch families typically have children attending universities throughout Central Texas and beyond. Understanding the specific environments at these schools is crucial for recognizing and addressing hazing risks.

Texas State University (San Marcos): The Closest Major Campus

For Fair Oaks Ranch Families: Located just 30 minutes away in San Marcos, Texas State is where many local students begin their college journey. Its growing Greek life community presents both opportunities and risks.

Campus Greek Life Overview
Texas State hosts active Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council, and Multicultural Greek Council communities. With the university’s rapid growth, Greek organizations have expanded significantly.

Documented Hazing Incidents & Responses

Multiple Organization Probations: The university’s conduct records show periodic sanctions for hazing violations involving forced drinking, physical abuse, and humiliation rituals
Transparency Challenges: Unlike UT Austin’s public hazing log, Texas State’s disciplinary records are less accessible, making pattern recognition difficult for families
Recent Investigations: As of 2024-2025, several Greek organizations were under investigation for allegations including sleep deprivation, forced calisthenics, and alcohol coercion

How Hazing Cases Proceed at Texas State

Jurisdiction: Cases may involve Texas State University Police, San Marcos Police Department, or Hays County Sheriff’s Office depending on location
Court Venues: Civil suits typically filed in Hays County courts or federal court in Austin
Common Defendants: Individual students, local chapters, national organizations, and potentially the university

What Texas State Students & Fair Oaks Ranch Parents Should Do

Know the Reporting Channels: Office of Student Involvement, Dean of Students, Texas State University Police
Document Everything: Texas State investigations often rely on digital evidence—preserve group chats, texts, and social media posts immediately
Understand the University’s Dual Role: Texas State may investigate for conduct violations while also being a potential defendant in civil litigation
Seek Local Legal Support: With our experience in Central Texas courts, we understand the specific dynamics of Hays County litigation

University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA)

For Fair Oaks Ranch Families: Just 45 minutes from Fair Oaks Ranch, UTSA serves as another major destination for local students. Its commuter-campus culture creates unique hazing dynamics.

Greek Life Environment
UTSA’s growing Greek community operates in a primarily commuter context, meaning much hazing activity occurs off-campus in apartments and rental houses around the city.

Documented Issues

Off-Campus Focus: Most serious hazing incidents occur at properties not owned or controlled by UTSA
Limited Public Records: As a relatively younger Greek system, pattern data is less established than at older institutions
Multicultural Organization Activity: Significant Greek participation occurs through culturally-based organizations with their own traditions and risks

Legal Considerations for UTSA Cases

Multi-Jurisdictional Complexity: Incidents might involve UTSA Police, San Antonio Police, and Bexar County Sheriff—determining proper jurisdiction is crucial
Insurance Coverage Challenges: Off-campus locations create complex insurance coverage questions
Witness Accessibility: Commuter students may be harder to locate and interview as witnesses

University of Texas at Austin: The Flagship Destination

For Fair Oaks Ranch Families: Many high-achieving students from Comal County attend UT Austin, drawn by its academic reputation and extensive Greek life.

UT’s Public Hazing Transparency
Unlike most Texas universities, UT Austin maintains a public Hazing Violations page that lists organizations, conduct details, and sanctions. This transparency is both educational and evidentially valuable.

Recent Documented Violations (From Public Log)

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation with mandatory hazing prevention education
Texas Wranglers (Spirit Organization): Sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing
Multiple Other Groups: Probation and suspensions for activities including sleep deprivation, humiliation rituals, and physical endangerment

Why UT’s Transparency Matters for Legal Cases
When we represent families in UT hazing cases, this public record becomes powerful evidence showing:

The university’s knowledge of specific hazing patterns
Prior warnings given to organizations
The inadequacy of previous sanctions to prevent recurrence

UT-Specific Legal Considerations

Sovereign Immunity Challenges: As a public university, UT has certain immunity protections that require specific legal strategies to overcome
Austin Venue Experience: Our familiarity with Travis County courts and local procedures provides strategic advantage
Fraternity House Locations: Many UT fraternity houses are university-owned, creating potential premises liability claims

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

For Fair Oaks Ranch Families: Texas A&M attracts students interested in its unique Corps of Cadets tradition alongside extensive Greek life.

The Corps of Cadets Hazing Dynamic
The Corps’ military-style environment has documented hazing issues that differ from traditional Greek patterns:

Physical Endurance Focus: “Smokings” (extreme calisthenics) and sleep deprivation as discipline
Tradition Justification: Abusive behaviors often defended as “time-honored tradition”
Institutional Knowledge: Multiple lawsuits have alleged university awareness of systemic issues

Recent Corps-Related Litigation

2023 Lawsuit: Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth; sought over $1 million
University Response: Texas A&M stated it handled the matter under its rules, highlighting the internal-process limitations families face

Greek Life Hazing at Texas A&M

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries; fraternity suspended; $1 million lawsuit filed
Multiple Organization Suspensions: Regular disciplinary action against fraternities for alcohol hazing, physical abuse, and endangerment

Strategic Considerations for Texas A&M Cases

Dual Identity Organizations: Some groups exist at intersection of Greek and Corps cultures
Brazos County Venue Specifics: Local court procedures and jury pool characteristics matter
University’s “Family” Culture: The Aggie network can create pressure against coming forward

Baylor University: Private University Dynamics

For Fair Oaks Ranch Families: Baylor’s Christian identity attracts many Texas families, but its Greek life and athletic programs have faced significant hazing issues.

Baylor’s Historical Context
The university’s recent history with athletic program scandals creates both challenges and opportunities in hazing litigation:

Increased Scrutiny: Following football and Title IX controversies, Baylor faces heightened oversight
Policy Reforms: Implemented new training and reporting systems
Continued Issues: Despite changes, hazing persists in various organizations

Documented Baylor Hazing Incidents

Baseball Team Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Greek Life Sanctions: Periodic fraternity and sorority suspensions for alcohol hazing, physical abuse, and humiliation rituals
Spirit Organization Issues: Similar to UT, Baylor’s spirit groups have faced hazing allegations

Private University Legal Advantages
Unlike public universities, Baylor lacks sovereign immunity protections, which can simplify certain legal claims. However, its religious affiliation adds complexity to some arguments.

Other Texas Universities with Fair Oaks Ranch Connections

University of Houston
As detailed in our active Bermudez case, UH faces serious hazing challenges. For Fair Oaks Ranch families with students at UH, the patterns we’re litigating right now provide direct insight into what to watch for.

Texas Tech University
While farther from Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas Tech attracts Central Texas students and has documented hazing issues, particularly in its Greek community and spirit organizations.

Community Colleges & Smaller Institutions
Alamo Colleges District schools and other smaller institutions near Fair Oaks Ranch also have student organizations where hazing can occur, though often with less public documentation.

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: What We Know About Greek Organizations Serving Fair Oaks Ranch Families

Through extensive public records research, we’ve built a comprehensive database of Texas Greek organizations. This intelligence informs every case we handle.

Public Records Directory: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Connected to Fair Oaks Ranch & Central Texas

If you’re a parent in Fair Oaks Ranch, you deserve to know who stands behind the Greek organizations connected to your child. Below are examples from our Texas-wide database of registered Greek entities.

IRS B83 Registered Organizations with Texas Presence
These are tax-exempt organizations the IRS classifies as Greek-letter entities (NTEE code B83). Each has an Employer Identification Number (EIN), legal name, and Texas mailing address:

Sigma Phi Lambda Inc – EIN 201237505 – Corinth, TX 76210 (Beta Chapter, IRS B83 filing)
Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc – EIN 133048786 – College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 filing)
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – EIN 475370943 – Houston, TX 77204 (Theta Delta, IRS B83 filing)
Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation – EIN 371768785 – Missouri City, TX 77459 (IRS B83 filing)
Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc – EIN 462267515 – Frisco, TX 75035 (IRS B83 filing)
Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter – EIN 746084905 – Houston, TX 77204 (IRS B83 filing)
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – EIN 237279532 – Prairie View, TX 77446 (IRS B83 filing)
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated – Sigma Gamma Chapter – EIN 392352450 – Houston, TX 77254 (IRS B83 filing)
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – EIN 263170920 – Denton, TX 76204 (Texas Woman’s University Chapter, IRS B83 filing)
Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity – EIN 262025321 – Denton, TX 76201 (Mu Gamma Chapter, IRS B83 filing)

San Antonio Metro Area Greek Organizations (From Cause IQ Data)
The San Antonio metropolitan area, which includes Fair Oaks Ranch, contains numerous Greek organizations:

Xi Omicron Iota House Association (ΩΧΟ) – San Antonio, TX (Trinity University, Cause IQ metro listing)
Alpha Lambda Chapter of Sigma Chi – San Antonio, TX (Trinity University, Cause IQ metro listing)
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – San Antonio Alumnae – San Antonio, TX (Cause IQ metro listing)
Kappa Alpha Psi – San Antonio Alumni – San Antonio, TX (Cause IQ metro listing)

Austin-Round Rock Metro Organizations (Relevant for UT & Texas State Families)

Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Rho Corp. – Austin, TX (University of Texas chapter house corporation, Cause IQ metro listing)
Delta Tau Delta – Gamma Iota Chapter – Austin, TX (University of Texas chapter house, Cause IQ metro listing)
Building Corporation – Alpha Delta Pi (Delta) – Austin, TX (University of Texas chapter property, Cause IQ metro listing)

Statewide Snapshot: The Scale of Texas Greek Life
According to our analysis of public records:

1,423 Greek organizations operate across 25 Texas metros
510 organizations in Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro
188 organizations in Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro
154 organizations in Austin-Round Rock metro
86 organizations in San Antonio metro
59 organizations in Lubbock metro
42 organizations in College Station-Bryan metro
27 organizations in Waco metro

Why This Directory Matters for Your Case

When we take a hazing case, we don’t start from zero. We already know:

The legal names and EINs of organizations that may hold insurance coverage
The network of related entities (housing corporations, alumni chapters, educational foundations)
How national brands operate across multiple Texas campuses
Where to find the public records that establish organizational relationships

This intelligence becomes crucial when:

Identifying All Potentially Liable Parties: Beyond the local chapter, there may be housing corporations, alumni associations, or national entities with insurance coverage
Tracing Insurance Coverage: Different entities carry different policies—we map them all
Establishing Pattern Evidence: Showing how the same national organization has faced similar issues elsewhere
Overcoming “Rogue Chapter” Defenses: Demonstrating national headquarters’ knowledge and control

Fraternity & Sorority National Histories: Patterns That Predict Texas Behavior

National organizations don’t operate in isolation. Their histories at other campuses create patterns that repeat in Texas. When we represent Fair Oaks Ranch families, we leverage this pattern evidence to build stronger cases.

High-Risk National Organizations with Texas Presence

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / “Pike”)

National Hazing History: Stone Foltz death (BGSU, $10M settlement), David Bogenberger death (NIU, $14M settlement)
Texas Presence: Chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas State, Texas Tech, UH
Pattern Evidence: The “Big/Little” alcohol hazing that killed Foltz is the same ritual used at Texas chapters

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / “SAE”)

National Hazing History: Multiple deaths nationwide; traumatic brain injury lawsuit (Alabama); chemical burns case (Texas A&M)
Texas Presence: Chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas State, SMU, Baylor
Texas-Specific Issues: 2021 Texas A&M chemical burns case involved industrial-strength cleaner poured on pledges causing severe burns requiring skin grafts

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

National Hazing History: Andrew Coffey death (FSU)
Texas Presence: Chapter at UH (Beta Nu—currently involved in our Bermudez lawsuit)
Current Texas Litigation: Our active $10M lawsuit shows identical patterns to national incidents

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

National Hazing History: Max Gruver death (LSU, led to Louisiana felony hazing law)
Texas Presence: Chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas State, Texas Tech
Pattern Concern: The “Bible study” drinking game that killed Gruver exists in various forms at Texas chapters

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)

National Hazing History: Multiple suspensions for physical hazing and alcohol abuse
Texas Presence: Chapters at Texas A&M, Texas Tech, SMU
SMU Specifics: 2017 incident involving paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation led to multi-year suspension

What National Histories Mean for Texas Cases

When a Texas chapter repeats behaviors that caused deaths or serious injuries elsewhere, it demonstrates:

Foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known these rituals were dangerous
Inadequate Prevention: Their anti-hazing policies failed to prevent predictable harm
Pattern & Practice: This isn’t an isolated “rogue chapter” but part of a systemic problem
Punitive Damage Potential: Willful disregard of known dangers can justify punishment beyond compensation

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy & Realistic Expectations

When Fair Oaks Ranch families come to us after a hazing incident, they want to know: What happens next? How do we build a case? What can we realistically expect?

Step 1: Immediate Evidence Preservation (First 48 Hours)

Digital Evidence: The Most Critical Category

Group Chats: Screenshot entire conversations from GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord
Social Media: Preserve Instagram stories, Snapchat messages, TikTok videos before they disappear
Text Messages: Export or comprehensively screenshot text threads
Location Data: Save Google Maps history, Find My Friends data, geotagged photos

Physical Evidence Collection

Injury Documentation: Photograph bruises, cuts, burns from multiple angles with date stamps
Property Preservation: Save clothing with stains, paddles or props used, receipts for forced purchases
Medical Records: Obtain ER reports, hospital records, lab results (especially important for alcohol poisoning or rhabdomyolysis cases)

Witness Identification

Other Pledges: Contact information for others who experienced the same hazing
Roommates/Hallmates: People who observed changes in behavior or physical condition
Emergency Responders: Names of EMTs, hospital staff who provided care

Step 2: Strategic Case Development

Identifying All Potential Defendants
Based on our Texas Greek intelligence, we look beyond the obvious:

Individual Members: Those who planned, participated in, or covered up the hazing
Chapter Officers: President, pledge educator, risk manager who had supervisory roles
Local Chapter Entity: If incorporated as a separate legal entity
Housing Corporation: Often a separate entity with its own insurance
Alumni Corporation/Board: May exercise control over chapter activities
National Headquarters: Sets policies, receives dues, provides oversight
University/College: For negligence in supervision or response
Property Owners: Landlords of off-campus houses or event venues
Alcohol Providers: Under Texas dram shop law if applicable

Evidence We Obtain Through Investigation

National Fraternity Records: Prior incident reports, risk management files, internal communications
University Discipline Files: Past violations, warnings, probation records for the organization
Insurance Policies: All potentially applicable coverage from various entities
Digital Forensics: Recovering deleted messages, analyzing metadata
Expert Analysis: Medical experts, toxicologists, Greek life culture experts, economists

Step 3: Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

Medical Expenses: Past and future treatment, therapy, medications
Lost Educational Opportunity: Tuition for semesters missed, lost scholarships, delayed graduation
Lost Earning Capacity: For permanent injuries affecting future employment
Other Costs: Counseling, relocation expenses, property damage

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life Impacts)

Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries sustained
Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in college life, activities, relationships
Reputational Harm: Social stigma, difficulty transferring schools

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families Who Have Lost a Child)

Funeral & Burial Costs
Loss of Companionship & Support
Parents’ & Siblings’ Emotional Suffering
Loss of Guidance & Future Relationship

Punitive Damages (When Conduct Is Especially Reckless)
Available when defendants show willful disregard for safety, particularly when:

There were prior warnings or incidents
Conduct was particularly cruel or degrading
There were attempts to cover up or destroy evidence

Step 4: Navigating Legal Defenses & Challenges

Common Defense Strategies We Anticipate & Counter

“The Pledge Consented” Defense
- Their Argument: “They wanted to be part of the group; they agreed to the activities”
- Our Counter: Texas law §37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing. Power imbalance and coercion negate true consent.
“Rogue Chapter” Defense
- Their Argument: “National headquarters didn’t know; this was local individuals violating policies”
- Our Counter: We subpoena national records showing prior similar incidents, inadequate supervision, and pattern of knowledge.
“Off-Campus/Not Our Property” Defense
- Their Argument: “It happened at a private house/retreat we don’t control”
- Our Counter: We establish sponsorship, control, and foreseeability regardless of location.
University Sovereign Immunity (Public Schools)
- Their Argument: “As a state institution, we have immunity from certain lawsuits”
- Our Counter: We identify exceptions (gross negligence, Title IX violations) and sue individuals in personal capacity.
Insurance Coverage Disputes
- Their Argument: “Hazing is an intentional act excluded from coverage”
- Our Counter: We argue negligent supervision is covered, identify multiple policies, and pursue bad faith claims if insurers wrongfully deny coverage.

Practical Guides for Fair Oaks Ranch Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Physical Indicators: Unexplained bruises/burns/cuts, extreme fatigue, weight changes, sleep deprivation
Behavioral Changes: Sudden secrecy, withdrawal from family/friends, personality shifts (anxiety/depression/irritability)
Academic Red Flags: Grades dropping, missing classes, losing scholarships
Digital Behavior: Constant phone anxiety, deleting messages obsessively, receiving late-night demands

Questions to Ask (Without Confrontation)

“How are things going with [organization]? Are they respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“What do they ask new members to do? Is anything uncomfortable or concerning?”
“Have you or anyone else gotten hurt? Do you feel you can leave if you want to?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets from us or the university?”

48-Hour Action Checklist for Parents

Hours 1-6: Get medical care if needed, preserve digital evidence, write down everything, call us at 1-888-ATTY-911
Hours 6-24: Secure all digital communications, photograph injuries, obtain medical records, identify witnesses
Hours 24-48: Consult with experienced hazing attorney, decide on reporting strategy, refer university/insurance contacts to your lawyer
Week 1: Continue medical documentation, begin evidence gathering with attorney, develop comprehensive strategy

For Students: Safety Planning & Evidence Collection

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment Questions

Am I being forced or pressured to do something unsafe or humiliating?
Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
Is this activity hidden from university officials or parents?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do?

How to Exit Safely

In Immediate Danger: Call 911, get to safe location
Planning to Quit: Tell someone outside the organization first, send clear resignation message, avoid “one last meeting”
If Retaliation Occurs: Document threats, report to university and police, consider protective order

Evidence Collection for Students

Screenshots: Capture full conversations with timestamps and participant names
Recordings: Texas is one-party consent—you can record conversations you’re part of
Photos/Videos: Injuries, locations, objects used in hazing
Medical Documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
Witness Information: Names and contacts of others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKES FAIR OAKS RANCH FAMILIES MUST AVOID:

Letting Your Child Delete Messages
- The Mistake: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
- The Reality: Looks like cover-up, can be obstruction of justice, makes case nearly impossible
- The Solution: Preserve everything immediately—even embarrassing content
Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly
- The Mistake: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
- The Reality: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
- The Solution: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation
Signing University “Resolution” Forms
- The Mistake: Trusting university to handle it fairly
- The Reality: You may waive right to sue; settlements are often far below case value
- The Solution: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review
Posting on Social Media Before Talking to Lawyer
- The Mistake: “I want people to know what happened”
- The Reality: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
- The Solution: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging
Waiting “To See How University Handles It”
- The Mistake: Believing internal process equals accountability
- The Reality: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
- The Solution: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

About Attorney911: Why Texas Families Choose Us for 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. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC (operating as Attorney911), we bring unique advantages to Texas hazing cases.

Our Texas Hazing Litigation Advantages

Insurance Insider Knowledge: Lupe Peña’s Defense Background
Mr. Lupe 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”
Deploy independent medical exams to minimize injuries

His insider perspective means we don’t just react to insurance tactics—we anticipate and counter them from day one.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience: Ralph Manginello’s BP Credential
Ralph Manginello was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, taking on a billion-dollar corporation with unlimited legal resources. That same capability applies directly to hazing cases where we face:

National fraternities with deep pockets
University legal teams with unlimited budgets
Sophisticated defense strategies designed to wear families down

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results
We’ve recovered millions for families in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. For hazing matters, this means we:

Work with economists to value lifetime care needs (critical for brain injury cases like Danny Santulli’s)
Understand how to present non-economic damages (PTSD, humiliation, loss of college experience)
Know when to settle and when to try a case to verdict

Dual Civil/Criminal Hazing Capability
Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) signals elite criminal defense capability. This matters because:

We advise witnesses/former members with potential criminal exposure
We understand how criminal cases interact with civil litigation
We navigate the complexities when hazing involves both civil lawsuits and criminal charges

Spanish-Language Services for Texas Families
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish, ensuring Hispanic families in Fair Oaks Ranch and across Texas receive clear, culturally competent legal guidance.

Our Investigative Depth: What Sets Us Apart

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine
While other firms start from zero, we begin with:

1,423 Greek organizations tracked across 25 Texas metros
IRS B83 records of 125+ Texas-registered Greek entities
Campus-specific rosters from UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor
National hazing incident database with patterns and outcomes

Expert Network We Deploy

Medical experts (rhabdomyolysis, TBI, alcohol poisoning)
Digital forensics specialists (recovering deleted messages)
Greek life culture experts (explaining coercion dynamics)
Economists (valuing lifetime impacts)
Psychologists (documenting PTSD and trauma)

Evidence Collection Methodology
We don’t just ask for screenshots—we:

Subpoena national fraternity records showing prior incidents
Obtain university discipline files through public records requests
Use digital forensics to recover deleted communications
Preserve social media evidence before it disappears
Identify all potentially liable entities and insurance policies

Your Next Steps: Contact Attorney911 for a Free Consultation

If you or your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Fair Oaks Ranch, Spring Branch, Bulverde, and throughout Comal and Bexar Counties have the right to answers and accountability.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

We Listen Without Judgment
We understand this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our first priority is listening to your story and understanding what happened.

We Review Your Evidence
Bring whatever you have: photos of injuries, screenshots of messages, medical records, or just your recollection of events.

We Explain Your Legal Options
We’ll outline potential paths forward: criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, university disciplinary process, or a combination based on your specific situation.

We Discuss Realistic Expectations
We believe in transparency about timelines, potential challenges, and what constitutes a successful outcome for your family.

No Pressure to Hire Us Immediately
Take time to think about your options. We provide the information you need to make an informed decision.

Contact Attorney911 Today

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello) or lupe@atty911.com (Lupe Peña)

Spanish Language Services Available
Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish

Serving Fair Oaks Ranch & All of Texas
From our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices, we serve families throughout Texas, including Fair Oaks Ranch, San Antonio, Austin, College Station, and beyond.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

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

Attorney911 Main Website:

https://attorney911.com

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
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