La Guía Completa sobre Novatadas en Texas para Familias de Town of Santa Rosa y el Valle del Río Grande

Si es usted padre en Town of Santa Rosa, en el condado de Cameron, que su hijo vaya a la universidad representa orgullo, esperanza y quizás una preocupación natural. Lo que quizás no haya considerado es que las mismas organizaciones que prometen amistad y liderazgo—fraternidades, hermandades, programas del Corps, atletismo y grupos de espíritu escolar—a veces pueden albergar tradiciones peligrosas e ilegales que ponen a su hijo en riesgo. En este momento, en nuestro propio estado, se está desarrollando un caso severo de novatadas que muestra exactamente cuán real es este peligro.

En la Universidad de Houston, representamos a Leonel Bermudez en una demanda por novatadas y abuso por $10 millones contra la Universidad de Houston, el capítulo Beta Nu de Pi Kappa Phi, su sede nacional y 13 líderes individuales de la fraternidad. Las alegaciones son graves: humillación forzada con una “riñonera de novato” que contenía condones y juguetes sexuales, ejercicios físicos extremos, ser rociado en la cara con una manguera “similar al waterboarding”, consumo forzado de leche y perros calientes hasta vomitar, y un brutal entrenamiento el 3 de noviembre que llevó a Bermudez a desarrollar rabdomiólisis e insuficiencia renal aguda. Estuvo hospitalizado cuatro días, orinó de color marrón y enfrenta un riesgo continuo de daño renal permanente. Este caso, cubierto por Click2Houston y ABC13, no es un incidente aislado. Es prueba de un problema sistémico en la vida griega de Texas que puede afectar a estudiantes de Town of Santa Rosa que asisten a cualquier universidad.

Esta guía está escrita específicamente para familias en Town of Santa Rosa, condado de Cameron, y en todo el Valle del Río Grande. Ya sea que su hijo asista a la Universidad de Texas Rio Grande Valley en la cercana Edinburg, a la Universidad Texas A&M en Kingsville, o se haya ido más lejos a universidades como UT Austin, Texas A&M College Station o la Universidad de Houston, usted merece saber la verdad sobre las novatadas, la ley y los derechos de su familia.

AYUDA INMEDIATA PARA EMERGENCIAS POR NOVATADAS

Si su hijo está en peligro EN ESTE MOMENTO:

Llame al 911 para emergencias médicas
Luego llame a Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Ofrecemos ayuda inmediata – por eso somos los Legal Emergency Lawyers™

En las primeras 48 horas:

Obtenga atención médica inmediatamente, incluso si el estudiante insiste en que está “bien”
Preserve la evidencia ANTES de que sea eliminada:
- Tome capturas de pantalla de chats grupales, mensajes de texto, mensajes directos inmediatamente
- Fotografíe las lesiones desde múltiples ángulos
- Guarde objetos físicos (ropa, recibos, objetos)
Escriba todo mientras la memoria está fresca (quién, qué, cuándo, dónde)
NO haga lo siguiente:
- Enfrentar a la fraternidad/hermandad
- Firmar cualquier documento de la universidad o la compañía de seguros
- Publicar detalles en redes sociales públicas
- Permitir que su hijo borre mensajes o “limpie” la evidencia

Contacte a un abogado con experiencia en novatadas dentro de 24 a 48 horas:
La evidencia desaparece rápido en el Valle del Río Grande y en todo Texas. Las universidades actúan rápidamente para controlar las narrativas. Podemos ayudar a preservar la evidencia y proteger los derechos de su hijo. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta inmediata.

Novatadas en 2025: Cómo es realmente en Texas

Para las familias de Town of Santa Rosa, la imagen clásica de las novatadas—golpes con paleta en un sótano con poca luz—ha evolucionado. Las novatadas modernas son sofisticadas, a menudo digitales y astutamente disfrazadas. Es cualquier acción forzada, coaccionada o fuertemente presionada vinculada a unirse o mantener la membresía en un grupo que pone en peligro la salud física o mental o implica humillación.

Los Tres Niveles de las Novatadas Modernas

Nivel 1: Novatadas Sutiles
Estos comportamientos enfatizan los desequilibrios de poder y a menudo se descartan como “tradición inofensiva”:

Estar “disponible” 24/7 para mandados o conducir para miembros mayores
Asistencia obligatoria a eventos que interfieren con los estudios
Aislamiento social de quienes no son miembros
Monitoreo digital: Respuestas instantáneas requeridas a chats grupales, compartir ubicación mediante apps

Nivel 2: Novatadas por Acoso
Estas causan malestar emocional o físico:

Privación de sueño con “reuniones” nocturnas o llamadas de despertador a las 3 AM
Abuso verbal, gritos y degradación
Consumo forzado de sustancias desagradables (salsa picante, comida en mal estado, leche en exceso)
Humillación pública mediante disfraces o actos vergonzosos
Vergüenza digital: Publicaciones forzadas en redes sociales que causan vergüenza

Nivel 3: Novatadas Violentas/Peligrosas
Estas tienen un alto potencial de causar lesiones graves o la muerte:

Consumo forzado de alcohol: Noches de “Grande/Pequeño”, juegos de beber en fila, concursos de beber de un trago
Golpizas físicas: Palizas con paleta, puñetazos, “ahumadas” con calistenia extrema
Pruebas peligrosas: Placajes con los ojos vendados, rituales de “techo de cristal”, peleas forzadas
Novatadas sexualizadas: Desnudez forzada, actos sexuales simulados
Exposición química: El caso de SAE de Texas A&M donde novatos sufrieron quemaduras químicas por limpiador industrial

Dónde Ocurren las Novatadas en Texas

Aunque las fraternidades y hermandades reciben más atención, las novatadas ocurren en:

Programas del Cuerpo de Cadetes y ROTC
Equipos deportivos (fútbol americano, baloncesto, béisbol, porristas)
Organizaciones de espíritu escolar como Texas Cowboys/Associates
Bandas de marcha y grupos de actuación
Organizaciones académicas y de servicio

Para las familias de Town of Santa Rosa, entender esta amplitud es crucial porque su hijo podría unirse a cualquiera de estos grupos, buscando comunidad en universidades desde el Valle del Río Grande hasta Austin.

La Ley de Novatadas de Texas: Lo que las Familias del Condado de Cameron Necesitan Saber

Texas tiene leyes anti-novatadas específicas y contundentes bajo el Capítulo 37 del Código de Educación. Estas leyes protegen a su hijo, ya sea que esté en UTRGV, Texas A&M Kingsville o cualquier campus de Texas.

Disposiciones Clave de la Ley de Novatadas de Texas

§ 37.151 Definición:
Novatadas significa cualquier acto intencional, a sabiendas o temerario, dentro o fuera del campus, dirigido contra un estudiante que:

Ponga en peligro la salud o seguridad mental o física Y
Ocurra para prometer, iniciación, afiliación o mantenimiento de membresía

§ 37.152 Sanciones Penales:

Delito Menor Clase B: Novatadas sin lesiones graves (hasta 180 días de cárcel, multa de $2,000)
Delito Menor Clase A: Novatadas que causen lesiones que requieran tratamiento médico
Delito de Prisión Estatal: Novatadas que causen lesiones corporales graves o la muerte

§ 37.155 Protecciones Críticas:

El consentimiento NO es una defensa – incluso si su hijo “aceptó”, sigue siendo novatada
Los denunciantes de buena fe tienen inmunidad – llamar al 911 no les causará problemas

Casos Penales vs. Casos Civiles: Entender la Diferencia

Cuando ocurren novatadas, pueden abrirse dos vías legales paralelas:

Casos Penales:

Presentados por el estado (fiscalía)
Objetivo: Castigo (cárcel, multas, libertad condicional)
Los cargos pueden incluir: novatadas, agresión, proporcionar alcohol a menores, homicidio involuntario en casos fatales
Ejemplo: En el caso de Pi Kappa Phi de UH, se prometieron referencias penales

Casos Civiles:

Presentados por las víctimas/familias
Objetivo: Compensación y responsabilidad
Las demandas incluyen: negligencia, muerte injusta, angustia emocional, supervisión negligente
Ejemplo: Nuestra demanda de $10 millones por Leonel Bermudez

Las familias de Town of Santa Rosa pueden emprender casos civiles incluso si no se presentan cargos penales. Los estándares de prueba difieren, y cada vía sirve para diferentes propósitos.

Leyes Federales que Aplican en Texas

Ley para Detener las Novatadas en los Campus (Stop Campus Hazing Act, 2024):

Requiere que las universidades que reciben ayuda federal informen sobre novatadas de manera transparente
Ordena datos públicos sobre novatadas para 2026
Fortalece la educación para la prevención

Título IX y Ley Clery:

Cuando las novatadas involucran acoso o agresión sexual, se activan las obligaciones del Título IX

Clery requiere informar sobre ciertos crímenes en el campus
Ambas aplican a todas las universidades de Texas que reciben fondos federales

Casos Nacionales de Novatadas: Patrones que se Repiten en Texas

Los trágicos casos a continuación no son solo noticias nacionales, sino que establecen patrones que los tribunales de Texas reconocen y que impactan directamente los casos que involucran a familias de Town of Santa Rosa.

Patrón de Intoxicación por Alcohol

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

Obligado a beber una botella entera de alcohol durante la noche de “Grande/Pequeño”
Murió por intoxicación etílica
Acuerdo de $10 millones ($7M del nacional de Pi Kappa Alpha, ~$3M de la universidad)

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Consumo forzado de alcohol durante el juego “Bible study”
Murió con 0.495% de alcoholemia
Condujo a la Ley Max Gruver de Louisiana (estatuto de delito grave por novatadas)

Por qué esto importa para Town of Santa Rosa:
Las mismas fraternidades que operan en universidades de Texas usan guiones idénticos de “Grande/Pequeño” y juegos de beber. Cuando causan daño aquí, estos precedentes nacionales establecen previsibilidad, demostrando que sabían los riesgos.

Patrón de Novatadas Físicas y Ritualizadas

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

Placaje con peso y los ojos vendados durante el ritual del “techo de cristal”
Lesiones fatales en la cabeza; retraso en la atención médica
Fraternidad nacional declarada culpable penalmente
Prohibida en Pennsylvania por 10 años

Danny Santulli – Universidad de Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)

Consumo forzado de alcohol durante la “revelación del padrino del novato”
Daño cerebral severo y permanente (no puede caminar, hablar ni ver)
Acuerdos con 22 acusados

Novatadas en Programas Atléticos

Fútbol Americano de la Universidad Northwestern (2023-2025)
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The Complete Texas Hazing Guide for Town of Santa Rosa & Rio Grande Valley Families

If you are a parent in Town of Santa Rosa, in Cameron County, your child heading to college represents pride, hope, and perhaps some natural worry. What you might not have considered is that the very organizations promising friendship and leadership—fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, athletics, and spirit groups—can sometimes harbor dangerous, illegal traditions that put your child at risk. Right now, in our own state, a severe hazing case is unfolding that shows exactly how real this danger is.

At the University of Houston, we represent Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and 13 individual fraternity leaders. The allegations are severe: forced humiliation with a “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms and sex toys, extreme physical workouts, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting, and a brutal November 3 workout that led to Bermudez developing rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He was hospitalized for four days, passed brown urine, and faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. This case, covered by Click2Houston and ABC13, is not an isolated incident. It is proof of a systemic problem in Texas Greek life that can impact students from Town of Santa Rosa attending any college.

This guide is written specifically for families in Town of Santa Rosa, Cameron County, and throughout the Rio Grande Valley. Whether your child attends the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in nearby Edinburg, Texas A&M University in Kingsville, or has ventured farther to schools like UT Austin, Texas A&M College Station, or the University of Houston, you deserve to know the truth about hazing, the law, and your family’s rights.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

Call 911 for medical emergencies
Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
We provide immediate help – that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™

In the first 48 hours:

Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine”
Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
- Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
- Photograph injuries from multiple angles
- Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
Do NOT:
- Confront the fraternity/sorority
- Sign anything from the university or insurance company
- Post details on public social media
- Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:
Evidence disappears fast in the Rio Grande Valley and across Texas. Universities move quickly to control narratives. We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like in Texas

For families in Town of Santa Rosa, the classic image of hazing—paddling in a dimly lit basement—has evolved. Modern hazing is sophisticated, often digital, and cleverly disguised. It is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining or maintaining membership in a group that endangers physical or mental health or involves humiliation.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing
These behaviors emphasize power imbalances and are often dismissed as “harmless tradition”:

Being “on call” 24/7 for older members’ errands or driving
Mandatory attendance at events that interfere with academics
Social isolation from non-members
Digital monitoring: Required instant responses to group chats, location sharing via apps

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing
These cause emotional or physical discomfort:

Sleep deprivation with late-night “meetings” or 3 AM wake-up calls
Verbal abuse, yelling, and degradation
Forced consumption of unpleasant substances (hot sauce, spoiled food, excessive milk)
Public humiliation through embarrassing costumes or acts
Digital shaming: Forced embarrassing social media posts

Tier 3: Violent/Dangerous Hazing
These have high potential for serious injury or death:

Forced alcohol consumption: “Big/Little” nights, lineup drinking games, chugging contests
Physical beatings: Paddling, punching, “smokings” with extreme calisthenics
Dangerous tests: Blindfolded tackles, “glass ceiling” rituals, forced fights
Sexualized hazing: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts
Chemical exposure: The Texas A&M SAE case where pledges suffered chemical burns from industrial cleaner

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

While fraternities and sororities receive most attention, hazing occurs in:

Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs
Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer)
Spirit organizations like Texas Cowboys/Associates
Marching bands and performance groups
Academic and service organizations

For Town of Santa Rosa families, understanding this breadth is crucial because your child might join any of these groups, seeking community at universities from the Rio Grande Valley to Austin.

Texas Hazing Law: What Cameron County Families Need to Know

Texas has specific, powerful anti-hazing laws under Chapter 37 of the Education Code. These laws protect your child whether they’re at UTRGV, Texas A&M Kingsville, or any Texas campus.

Key Provisions of Texas Hazing Law

§ 37.151 Definition:
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers mental or physical health or safety AND
Occurs for pledging, initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing without serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

§ 37.155 Critical Protections:

Consent is NOT a defense – even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing
Good-faith reporters have immunity – calling 911 won’t get them in trouble

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

When hazing occurs, two parallel legal paths may open:

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (DA’s office)
Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Charges can include: hazing, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter in fatal cases
Example: In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, criminal referrals were promised

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims/families
Goal: Compensation and accountability
Claims include: negligence, wrongful death, emotional distress, negligent supervision
Example: Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez

Families in Town of Santa Rosa can pursue civil cases even if no criminal charges are filed. The standards of proof differ, and each path serves different purposes.

Federal Laws That Apply in Texas

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
Mandates public hazing data by 2026
Strengthens prevention education

Title IX & Clery Act:

When hazing involves sexual harassment or assault, Title IX obligations trigger

Clery requires reporting of certain campus crimes
Both apply to all Texas universities receiving federal funds

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

The tragic cases below aren’t just national news—they establish patterns that Texas courts recognize and that directly impact cases involving Town of Santa Rosa families.

Alcohol Poisoning Pattern

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

Forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
$10 million settlement ($7M from national Pi Kappa Alpha, ~$3M from university)

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Forced drinking during “Bible study” game
Died with 0.495% BAC
Led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)

Why This Matters for Town of Santa Rosa:
The same fraternities operating at Texas schools use identical “Big/Little” and drinking game scripts. When they cause harm here, these national precedents establish foreseeability – proving they knew the risks.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

Blindfolded, weighted tackle during “glass ceiling” ritual
Fatal head injuries; delayed medical care
National fraternity criminally convicted
Banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

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

Forced drinking during “pledge dad reveal”
Severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
Settlements with 22 defendants

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025)

Widespread sexualized, racist hazing allegations
Multiple lawsuits; head coach fired
Shows hazing extends beyond Greek life

What These Cases Mean for Rio Grande Valley Families

Patterns repeat – The same scripts occur at Texas schools
National organizations know the risks – Their policies exist because of prior tragedies
Substantial compensation is possible – Multi-million dollar settlements show serious cases have serious value
Legislation follows tragedy – Texas could see its own “Max Gruver Act” if cases continue

Texas Universities: Where Town of Santa Rosa Students Attend

Town of Santa Rosa families send students to universities across Texas. Each has its own Greek ecosystem and hazing history.

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (Edinburg) – The Local Option

For Town of Santa Rosa families, UTRGV is often the most accessible university. While its Greek life is smaller than flagship schools, hazing risks exist in:

Fraternities and sororities
Athletic teams
Spirit organizations
Campus clubs

UTRGV’s Hazing Policy:

Prohibits hazing on and off campus
Requires reporting through Dean of Students
Provides amnesty for good-faith reporters

What Town of Santa Rosa Students Should Know:

Hazing is illegal whether at an Edinburg apartment or McAllen event venue
University discipline can include expulsion
Cameron County courts have jurisdiction over local incidents

Texas A&M University-Kingsville

Just an hour from Town of Santa Rosa, TAMUK hosts active Greek life with chapters of national organizations that have hazing histories.

Documented Incidents at Similar Institutions:

Texas A&M SAE Chemical Burns Case: Pledges suffered severe burns from industrial cleaner
National patterns show fraternities at regional campuses often replicate flagship chapter behaviors

For Town of Santa Rosa Parents:

Your child at TAMUK faces similar risks as at larger schools
The same national organizations operate there
Kleberg County courts would handle local cases

The Major Texas Universities Town of Santa Rosa Students Attend

Many Town of Santa Rosa students head to flagship universities. Here’s what you need to know:

University of Houston

Current Active Case – Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi:
We are litigating this $10 million case involving:

Systematic hazing from September-November 2025
Multiple locations: Pi Kappa Phi house, Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Boulevard Park
Medical catastrophe: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, four-day hospitalization
13 individual defendants including chapter president, pledgemaster, risk manager
Institutional response: Chapter suspended Nov 6, charter surrendered Nov 14

What This Means for All Texas Families:
If this can happen at a major university with oversight, it can happen anywhere. The pattern evidence from this case strengthens all Texas hazing claims.

Texas A&M University-College Station

Corps of Cadets Culture:

Tradition-heavy environment with reported discipline issues
2023 Lawsuit: Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound in “roasted pig” position
Sought over $1 million; A&M stated it handled internally

Greek Life Incidents:

SAE Chemical Burns Case: $1 million lawsuit filed
Multiple fraternities on disciplinary probation

For Town of Santa Rosa Parents:
The Corps and Greek life present dual risks. Traditions run deep, and accountability requires experienced legal navigation.

University of Texas at Austin

Public Transparency Advantage:
UT Austin maintains a public hazing violations log at hazing.utexas.edu showing:

Recent Sanctions:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; probation imposed
Texas Wranglers: Sanctioned for forced workouts
Multiple organizations disciplined for alcohol-related hazing

Why This Matters:
Prior violations establish pattern and knowledge for civil cases. When an organization has been warned before, their liability increases.

Baylor University

After the Sexual Assault Scandal:
Baylor’s heightened scrutiny extends to hazing:

Baseball Hazing (2020):

14 players suspended after investigation
Staggered suspensions during season

Cultural Context:

Religious identity creates unique dynamics
“Zero tolerance” policies vs. recurring issues
Greek life maintains strong presence

How Cases Proceed from Different Campuses

Location Matters for Town of Santa Rosa Families:

UTRGV/TAMUK Incidents: Filed in Hidalgo or Kleberg County courts; may involve local attorneys
Flagship University Incidents: Typically filed in university county (Travis, Brazos, Harris) but Town of Santa Rosa families can retain Texas counsel
Our Role: We serve as lead counsel for Texas cases and co-counsel for out-of-state matters

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: Public Records Reality

Most parents don’t realize how many legal entities exist behind simple Greek letters. We maintain a Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracking 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 metros. For Town of Santa Rosa families, this means we already know the landscape.

Rio Grande Valley Greek Entities

While the Valley has fewer Greek organizations than major metros, public records show registered entities:

IRS B83 Registered Organizations (Tax-Exempt Greek Entities):

EIN 262378154: SOUTH TEXAS COTILLON INC, PO Box 4198, Brownsville, TX 78523 (IRS B83 filing)
EIN 812724215: ALPHA DELTA, 2408 N 26th St, McAllen, TX 78501 (IRS B83 filing)

Cause IQ Metro Data for South Texas:
The McAllen-Edinburg-Mission metro area hosts Greek organizations including local chapters of national fraternities and sororities, though counts are smaller than in Houston or Dallas.

Major University Greek Entities Your Town of Santa Rosa Child Might Encounter

When your child attends larger universities, they encounter complex organizational structures:

University of Houston Area Entities:

EIN 746084905: SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY EPSILON XI CHAPTER, 4300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204
EIN 392352450: ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED – SIGMA GAMMA CHAPTER, PO Box 540026, Houston, TX 77254
EIN 371768785: PI KAPPA PHI DELTA OMEGA CHAPTER BUILDING CORPORATION, 4102 Eastshore St, Missouri City, TX 77459

Texas A&M University Entities:

EIN 133048786: KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC, 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845
EIN 742930349: ETA ALPHA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA DELTA SORORITY, 404 University Dr E Ste D, College Station, TX 77840

Why This Directory Matters for Town of Santa Rosa Families:
When hazing occurs, multiple entities may share liability:

Local chapter – Direct participants
House corporation – Owns the property where hazing occurred
Alumni chapter – May fund or advise
National headquarters – Sets policies, collects dues
University – Provides recognition, oversight

We know these entities before you call. We don’t start from zero.

Fraternity & Sorority National Histories: Pattern Evidence

National organizations’ histories matter because courts consider foreseeability. If a national knew about risks from prior incidents, their liability increases when those same patterns harm your child.

Organizations Present at Texas Schools with National Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ) – “Pike”:

Stone Foltz (BGSU, 2021): $10 million settlement
David Bogenberger (NIU, 2012): $14 million settlement
Present at: UT Austin, Texas A&M, Baylor, SMU

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) – “SAE”:

Texas A&M Chemical Burns: $1 million lawsuit
University of Alabama TBI Case: Ongoing litigation
Multiple deaths nationwide leading to 2014 pledge process elimination
Present at: All 5 major Texas universities

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

Andrew Coffey (FSU, 2017): Hazing death, chapter closed
Leonel Bermudez (UH, 2025): Our active $10 million case
Present at: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

Max Gruver (LSU, 2017): $6.1M verdict, Louisiana felony law
Present at: UT Austin, Texas A&M, Baylor

What Pattern Evidence Means for Your Case

When we represent Town of Santa Rosa families, we subpoena national organizations’ records to show:

Prior incidents at same chapter
Similar incidents at other chapters
Inadequate responses to prior warnings
Policy vs. practice gaps

This evidence can:

Increase settlement value
Support punitive damages
Defeat “rogue chapter” defenses

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages & Strategy

For Town of Santa Rosa families facing this nightmare, understanding the process reduces fear and empowers action.

Critical Evidence That Wins Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage screenshots
Social media: Instagram stories, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook
Recovered data: Deleted messages via digital forensics
Location data: GPS, Find My Friends logs

Physical Evidence:

Medical records: ER reports, hospitalization records, lab results (like Bermudez’s creatine kinase levels showing rhabdomyolysis)
Injury documentation: Photos from multiple angles, progression shots
Objects: Paddles, alcohol bottles, “pledge packs”
Clothing: Unwashed items showing stains or damage

Institutional Records:

University files: Prior disciplinary actions, incident reports
National fraternity records: Risk management files, prior warnings
Insurance policies: Coverage details for multiple entities

Witness Information:

Other pledges, roommates, RAs, former members
Emergency responders, medical personnel

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable):

Medical expenses: Past and future care
Lost earnings: Current and future earning capacity
Educational costs: Lost scholarships, delayed graduation

Non-Economic Damages:

Pain and suffering: Physical and emotional
Mental anguish: PTSD, depression, anxiety
Loss of enjoyment: Damaged college experience

Wrongful Death Damages (if applicable):

Funeral expenses
Loss of companionship
Parental grief and suffering

Punitive Damages (when appropriate):

Punish egregious conduct
Deter future hazing
Available under Texas law for gross negligence

The Strategic Process

Immediate Preservation: Evidence disappears within days
Comprehensive Investigation: We identify ALL potentially liable parties
Expert Collaboration: Medical, economic, Greek life experts
Strategic Demand: Positioning for maximum recovery
Trial Readiness: Universities settle fairly when they know we’ll try the case

Practical Guides for Town of Santa Rosa Families

For Parents: Warning Signs & Action Steps

Red Flags Your Child Is Being Hazed:

Unexplained injuries or “accidents”
Extreme exhaustion, sleep deprivation
Sudden personality changes: anxiety, withdrawal
Secretive about activities, new friends
Constant phone checking for group chat demands
Financial requests without clear explanation
Academic performance dropping

How to Talk to Your Child:

Choose calm, private time
Use open questions: “How are things with your fraternity/sorority?”
Express concern, not accusation: “I noticed you seem exhausted lately”
Emphasize safety over status: “Your health matters more than any organization”
Offer unconditional support: “You can always come home, no questions asked”

If Your Child Is Injured:

Medical care FIRST – even if they resist
Document everything – photos, notes, screenshots
Preserve physical evidence – don’t wash clothing, save objects
Contact us immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911
DO NOT confront the organization – they’ll destroy evidence

For Students: Your Rights & Safety

Is This Hazing? Ask Yourself:

Would I do this if I had a real choice?
Is it dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew?
Am I being told to keep secrets?

How to Exit Safely:

Tell someone outside first – parent, trusted friend
Send written resignation – email to chapter president
Avoid “one last meeting” – that’s where pressure happens
Document any retaliation – screenshots, witnesses
Report to university – Dean of Students, campus police

Good Faith Reporting Protection:
Texas law and most university policies protect those who call 911 or report hazing in good faith, even if they were drinking underage or involved.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKE #1: Deleting Evidence

What happens: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
Result: Looks like cover-up, destroys case
Solution: Preserve EVERYTHING immediately

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization

What happens: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
Result: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Solution: Document silently, call us first

MISTAKE #3: Signing University Papers

What happens: “Just sign this so we can resolve this internally”
Result: You waive rights, accept low settlement
Solution: NEVER sign without attorney review

MISTAKE #4: Social Media Posts

What happens: “People need to know what they did”
Result: Defense attorneys screenshot everything, use inconsistencies against you
Solution: Document privately, let us control messaging

MISTAKE #5: Waiting on the University

What happens: “Let’s see how the investigation goes”
Result: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Solution: Parallel track – preserve evidence while university investigates

Why Attorney911 for Town of Santa Rosa 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 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
Argue coverage exclusions
Set reserves and negotiate settlements
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation – Ralph Manginello:

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
25+ Years Practice: Since 1998, handling highest-stakes cases
HCCLA Membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association signals elite criminal defense capability

Multi-Million Dollar Results:

Wrongful Death Settlements: Proven track record valuing young lives
Catastrophic Injury Experience: Life care planning for permanent disabilities
Economist Collaboration: Accurate future damage calculation

Spanish Language Services – Se Habla Español:
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish, ensuring Town of Santa Rosa families can communicate comfortably during this stressful time.

Our Investigative Process for Rio Grande Valley Families

When you call us about a hazing incident, whether it happened at UTRGV or a school hours away, we:

Immediate Evidence Preservation:
- Guide you through screenshotting group chats
- Help photograph injuries properly
- Secure physical evidence before it disappears
Comprehensive Party Identification:
- Use our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine to identify ALL potentially liable entities
- Local chapter, house corporation, alumni association, national headquarters, university
Expert Network Activation:
- Medical experts (for injuries like rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD)
- Digital forensics specialists (recovering deleted messages)
- Greek life culture experts
- Economists (calculating lifetime impacts)
Strategic Case Building:
- Pattern evidence from national histories
- Prior incidents at same chapter/school
- Institutional knowledge and response

Our Commitment to Town of Santa Rosa Families

We understand that hazing cases involve more than money. They’re about:

Accountability – ensuring organizations change
Prevention – protecting future students
Healing – helping families move forward
Justice – proper consequences for wrongdoing

We serve families throughout Texas from our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices. Distance doesn’t matter—we come to you, handle everything remotely when needed, and ensure you feel supported every step.

Frequently Asked Questions for Town of Santa Rosa Families

“Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (UTRGV, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity limitations, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities (Baylor, SMU) have fewer protections. Every case is fact-specific—call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law makes hazing a state jail felony when it causes serious bodily injury or death. The UH Pi Kappa Phi case involves exactly this level of harm.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the activities?”
Consent is NOT a defense to hazing in Texas. Education Code §37.155 explicitly states this. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure isn’t voluntary.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from injury or death, but exceptions exist for delayed discovery of harm or cover-ups. Time is critical—evidence disappears fast.

“What if it happened off-campus or at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship and control. Many major cases occurred off-campus.

“Will my child’s name be public?”
Most cases settle confidentially. We prioritize privacy while pursuing accountability.

“What does it cost?”
We work on contingency—no fee unless we win. Watch our video explaining how contingency fees work.

Call to Action for Town of Santa Rosa & Rio Grande Valley Families

If you suspect your child has been hazed—whether at UTRGV, Texas A&M Kingsville, or any Texas campus—you are not alone. The journey from trauma to accountability begins with one call.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation:

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

What to expect in your free consultation:

We listen to your story without judgment
Review any evidence you’ve preserved
Explain all legal options clearly
Discuss realistic timelines and outcomes
Answer questions about process and costs
No pressure—take time to decide

For immediate evidence preservation guidance, watch our video on using your phone to document evidence.

Families in Town of Santa Rosa, Cameron County, and throughout the Rio Grande Valley have the right to answers, accountability, and justice. Hazing thrives in silence and secrecy. Together, we can break that cycle.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of the Leonel Bermudez UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Lawsuit:

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

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Using Your Phone to Document Evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas Statutes of Limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client Mistakes That Ruin Cases: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How Contingency Fees Work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

Contact & Information: 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
Se habla Español: lupe@atty911.com