Hazing at Texas Universities: A Comprehensive Guide for Lancaster Families

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

Imagine your child, a student from our Lancaster community, texts you from college late one night: “Mom, I don’t feel right.” They describe being forced to drink far beyond their limits during a fraternity “Big/Little” night. Hours later, they’re in the emergency room at a Dallas-area hospital, doctors diagnosing severe alcohol poisoning. The fraternity brothers warned everyone not to call 911—”We’ll handle it internally.” Your child, fearing social isolation and retaliation, waited too long.

This scenario isn’t hypothetical. Right now, just a few hours south of Lancaster in Houston, our firm is fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after alleged hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. His urine turned brown. He required four days of hospitalization. We filed a $10 million lawsuit against UH, Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders.

If you’re a parent in Lancaster, Dallas County, or anywhere in North Texas, this guide is for you. We’ll explain what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects your child, what’s happening at universities where Lancaster families send students, and what legal options you may have.

Immediate Help for Hazing Emergencies

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses)
• Universities move quickly to control the narrative
• We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Tactics

For Lancaster families whose children attend Texas universities, understanding contemporary hazing is crucial. What was once portrayed as harmless “initiation pranks” has evolved into sophisticated, often digitally-enabled abuse designed to avoid detection.

Alcohol and Substance Hazing Remains Deadly
The forced consumption of alcohol continues to be the most common lethal form of hazing. In the Leonel Bermudez case at UH, allegations include forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed immediately by sprints. This isn’t “party culture”—it’s calculated abuse with foreseeable medical consequences.

Physical Hazing: From Paddles to Medical Emergencies
Physical hazing has moved beyond simple paddling to include dangerous exercises designed to cause physiological harm. In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, Bermudez was allegedly forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion, leading to rhabdomyolysis—a severe muscle breakdown that floods the kidneys with toxins. Another pledge was reportedly hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.

Digital Hazing: The 24/7 Pressure Cooker
Modern hazing extends into digital spaces with relentless control:

• Group chat monitoring: Pledges required to respond instantly to messages at all hours
• Social media humiliation: Forced TikTok challenges, Instagram story dares
• Location tracking: Mandatory sharing via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
• Evidence destruction coaching: Instructions to delete incriminating messages

Psychological Warfare: Coercion Disguised as Tradition
Hazing often employs psychological tactics that make victims feel complicit:

• “You wanted this—you chose to join”
• “We all went through it”
• “If you quit now, you’ll regret it forever”
• “This is what brotherhood/sisterhood requires”

Where Hazing Happens in Texas University Life

While fraternities and sororities receive most attention, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

Greek Life Organizations:

• Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternities
• Panhellenic sororities
• National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC – Divine Nine)
• Multicultural Greek Council organizations

Military and Leadership Programs:

• Corps of Cadets programs
• ROTC units
• Leadership honor societies

Athletic Teams:

• Varsity sports teams
• Club sports organizations
• Cheer and spirit squads

Performance Groups:

• Marching bands
• Theater troupes
• A cappella groups

Spirit and Tradition Organizations:

• Texas Cowboys-type groups
• Homecoming committees
• Campus ambassador programs

For Lancaster families, this means hazing risk isn’t limited to “frat parties.” Your child could face coercion in any organization that values tradition over safety.

Texas Hazing Law: What Lancaster Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Child’s Legal Protection

Texas has specific anti-hazing statutes that protect students at both public and private universities. These laws apply whether your child attends school in Dallas County or anywhere in Texas.

Definition of Hazing (Texas Education Code § 37.151):
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

• Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
• Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

Key Elements for Lancaster Families:

1. Location Doesn’t Matter: Hazing at off-campus houses, DFW-area Airbnbs, or remote retreats is still illegal
2. Mental Harm Counts: Psychological abuse qualifies alongside physical injury
3. Recklessness is Enough: Defendants don’t need malicious intent—reckless disregard for safety suffices
4. “On or Off Campus”: University property boundaries don’t limit liability

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law

Texas classifies hazing offenses based on harm:

Class B Misdemeanor (Default):

• Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury
• Up to 180 days in jail
• Fine up to $2,000

Class A Misdemeanor:

• Hazing causing bodily injury requiring medical treatment
• Up to 1 year in jail
• Fine up to $4,000

State Jail Felony:

• Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death
• 180 days to 2 years in state jail
• Fine up to $10,000

Additional Criminal Exposure:

• Failure to report hazing (if you’re a member/officer with knowledge): misdemeanor
• Retaliation against reporters: misdemeanor
• Furnishing alcohol to minors: separate charges
• Assault/battery: additional charges depending on injuries

The Critical “Consent Is Not a Defense” Rule

Texas Education Code § 37.155 states explicitly: “It is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

Why This Matters for Lancaster Families:

• Your child saying “yes” under peer pressure doesn’t make hazing legal
• Courts recognize power imbalances in Greek/organizational settings
• “Everybody wanted to do it” is irrelevant under Texas law
• This directly counters the most common defense fraternities use

Organizational Liability: Holding Groups Accountable

Texas Education Code § 37.153 allows prosecution of organizations themselves if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
• An officer or member acting in official capacity knew about hazing and failed to report it

Penalties for Organizations:

• Fine up to $10,000 per violation
• University can revoke recognition and ban from campus

Good-Faith Reporter Protections

Texas Education Code § 37.154 provides immunity for those who report hazing in good faith. This is crucial for:

• Bystanders afraid of getting in trouble
• Members who participated but want to stop the abuse
• Anyone calling 911 in a medical emergency

Practical Application:

• Many Texas universities have amnesty policies for alcohol-related emergencies
• The primary goal is getting medical help, not punishing reporters
• Use these protections if your child needs to call for help

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Lancaster Families Can Learn

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: A Preventable Pattern

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (2021):

• Pi Kappa Alpha “Big/Little” night
• Forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol
• Died from alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.394)
• $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from university)
• Chapter president personally ordered to pay $6.5 million

Timothy Piazza – Penn State University (2017):

• Beta Theta Pi bid acceptance night
  ? Extreme drinking, multiple falls captured on security cameras
  ? 12+ hour delay in calling 911
• 18 members charged with over 1,000 criminal counts
• Led to Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania

Max Gruver – Louisiana State University (2017):

• Phi Delta Theta “Bible study” drinking game
• Wrong answers = forced drinking
• Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
• $6.1 million verdict for family
• Led to Max Gruver Act (Louisiana felony hazing statute)

What Lancaster Families Should Understand:
These cases show consistent patterns:

1. Formulaic drinking events (“Big/Little nights,” “bid acceptance,” “family trees”)
2. Delayed medical response due to fear of consequences
3. National organizations with prior knowledge of similar incidents
4. Multi-million dollar settlements becoming standard for fatalities

Physical Hazing with Catastrophic Injuries

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri (2021):

• Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) “pledge dad reveal”
• Forced excessive alcohol consumption
• Suffered severe, permanent brain damage
• Cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care
• Settlements with 22 defendants (confidential, reportedly multi-million dollar)

Texas A&M Sigma Alpha Epsilon Case (2021):

• Pledges covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner
• Caused severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
• $1 million lawsuit filed by victims
• Fraternity suspended for two years

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College (2013):

• Pi Delta Psi retreat “glass ceiling” ritual
• Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled
• Fatal traumatic brain injury
• National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
• Banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Athletic Program Hazing: Not Just Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025):

• Alleged sexualized, racist hacing over multiple years
• Multiple players sued university and staff
• Head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit
• Demonstrated hazing extends into big-money athletic programs

Baylor University Baseball (2020):

• 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
• Suspensions staggered over early season
• Showed even religious-affiliated universities face hazing challenges

Key Takeaways for Lancaster Families

1. Patterns Repeat: The same dangerous behaviors recur across campuses
2. Delay Kills: Waiting to call 911 dramatically worsens outcomes
3. Institutional Knowledge Exists: National organizations often know about risks
4. Significant Compensation Possible: Multi-million dollar settlements/verdicts reflect severity
5. Legal Precedents Exist: Successful cases provide roadmaps for Texas families

Texas University Focus: Where Lancaster Families Send Students

Understanding Lancaster’s Educational Landscape

Lancaster families in Dallas County send students to diverse educational institutions. Some attend colleges within commuting distance, while others choose major universities across Texas. Here’s what you need to know about hazing at schools Lancaster students attend.

University of North Texas (Denton) – 40 Miles from Lancaster

Campus Profile:

• Public research university in Denton, Denton County
• 44,000+ students
• Active Greek life with 40+ fraternities and sororities
• Major destination for Dallas County students

Greek Life at UNT:
国务院 Interfraternity Council (IFC): 16 fraternities
国务院 Panhellenic Council: 10 sororities
国务院 National Pan-Hellenic Council: All Divine Nine organizations
国务院 Multicultural Greek Council: 8 organizations

Recent Hazing Concerns:
While UNT maintains anti-hazing policies, incidents occur. The university’s Office of Student Conduct handles allegations, but many cases settle internally without public disclosure. UNT’s size and decentralized Greek system can make oversight challenging.

What Lancaster Parents Should Know:

• UNT’s proximity to Lancaster means many local students join Greek organizations
  nline reporting systems exist but may not trigger immediate investigation
  n Greek housing is primarily off-campus, complicating university oversight
  n Prior incidents may not appear in public records due to confidentiality agreements

Practical Steps for UNT Families:

1. Document Everything: Save all communications about “mandatory” events
2. Know Reporting Channels: UNT Dean of Students: (940) 565-2648
3. Understand Jurisdiction: Denton Police may handle off-campus incidents
4. Preserve Evidence: GroupMe chats are commonly used at UNT

University of Texas at Dallas (Richardson) – 25 Miles from Lancaster

Campus Profile:

• Public research university in Richardson, Dallas County
• 31,000+ students
• Growing Greek life community
• Many commuter students from Lancaster area

Greek Life at UTD:
国务院 Smaller but active Greek community
国务院 Emphasis on academic and professional organizations
国务院 Some chapters share facilities with nearby universities

Hazing Context:
UTD’s commuter-heavy population creates different dynamics than traditional residential campuses. However, hazing still occurs in:

• Social fraternities and sororities
• Academic honor societies
• Cultural and professional organizations

Special Considerations for UTD:

• Many events occur in rented spaces throughout DFW
• Cross-chapter activities with SMU, UNT, and other schools
• Digital hazing may be more prevalent given tech-focused student body

Southern Methodist University (Dallas) – 20 Miles from Lancaster

Campus Profile:

• Private university in University Park, Dallas County
• 12,000+ students
• Prominent Greek life culture
• Significant economic and social influence in DFW

Greek Life at SMU:
国务院 12+ fraternities and sororities
国务院 Historic Greek row with chapter houses
国务院 Strong alumni networks with local professionals

Documented Hazing Incidents:
Kappa Alpha Order (2017):

• New members reportedly paddled
• Forced alcohol consumption
• Sleep deprivation
• Chapter suspended through 2021

SMU’s Response Framework:

• Office of Student Conduct investigation
• Possible outcomes: warning, probation, suspension, expulsion
• Greek Life Office oversight
• Anonymous reporting via Real Response system

Challenges for Lancaster Families:

1. Private University Dynamics: Less transparency than public institutions
2. Alumni Influence: Powerful networks may protect chapters
3. Social Pressure: Greek life deeply integrated into campus culture
4. Financial Factors: High costs may increase pressure to “get value” from membership

If Your Child is Hazed at SMU:

• Document through SMU’s Conduct Office: (214) 768-4564
• Consider parallel reporting to University Park Police
• Understand SMU may prioritize institutional reputation
• Consult an attorney familiar with private university litigation

University of Texas at Arlington – 25 Miles from Lancaster

Campus Profile:

• Public university in Arlington, Tarrant County
• 48,000+ students
• Diverse commuter population
• Growing Greek life presence

Greek Life at UTA:
国务院 20+ fraternities and sororities
国务院 Mix of residential and commuter members
国务院 Active multicultural Greek organizations

Hazing Context:
UTA’s urban setting means:

• Events throughout DFW metroplex
• Mixed membership (students from multiple schools)
• Potential jurisdictional complexities

Practical Guidance:

• Arlington Police handle off-campus incidents
• UTA Police have on-campus jurisdiction
• Document which police department responds
• Note cross-university participation in events

Texas A&M University-Commerce – 80 Miles from Lancaster

Campus Profile:

• Public university in Commerce, Hunt County
• 12,000+ students
• Traditional Greek life system
• Many first-generation college students from North Texas

Greek Life at A&M-Commerce:
国务院 Historically active Greek community
国务院 Chapter houses near campus
国务院 Strong tradition of Greek involvement

Considerations for Lancaster Families:

• Distance may limit parental oversight
• Rural setting can concentrate social life within Greek system
• Fewer alternative social options may increase pressure to join
• Medical resources less extensive than DFW area

Major Texas Universities Beyond DFW

Lancaster families also send students to flagship universities across Texas. Here’s what you need to know about hazing at these institutions:

University of Texas at Austin:

• Maintains public hazing violations database (hazing.utexas.edu)
• Recent cases include Pi Kappa Alpha sanctions for forced calisthenics
• UT’s transparency provides valuable evidence for civil cases

Texas A&M University (College Station):

• Corps of Cadets hazing allegations (2023 lawsuit)
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon chemical burns case (2021)
• Aggie Bonfire tradition raises similar liability questions

University of Houston:

• Current Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi case
• $10 million lawsuit alleging severe physical and psychological hazing
• Chapter suspended November 6, 2025; charter surrendered November 14, 2025

Baylor University:

• Baseball team hazing suspensions (2020)
• Religious context adds complexity to accountability
• Prior Title IX scandals inform institutional response patterns

The Dallas-Fort Worth Greek Ecosystem: Public Records Directory

Attorney911 maintains the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, tracking 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros. For Lancaster families, here are key organizations in the DFW area:

IRS B83-Registered Greek Organizations Serving DFW:

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity
EIN: 742911848 | Fort Worth, TX 76244
IRS B83 public filing – Christian fraternity

Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc
EIN: 741380362 | Fort Worth, TX 76147
IRS B83 public filing – housing foundation

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc
EIN: 521278573 | Dallas, TX 75241
IRS B83 public filing – Lambda Lambda chapter

Delta Delta Delta – Arlington Alumnae Chapter
Dallas, TX | Cause IQ metro listing
Alumnae chapter serving Dallas/Fort Worth

Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity – Tau Deuteron Chapter
Waco, TX | Cause IQ metro listing
Chapter at Baylor University (serves DFW students)

DFW Metro Greek Organization Counts:

• Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510 total Greek organizations
• Includes undergraduate chapters, alumni groups, housing corporations, honor societies
• Major national fraternities with DFW presence: Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Kappa Sigma, Sigma Chi
• Professional/educators sororities: Delta Kappa Gamma Society chapters throughout DFW

Why This Directory Matters for Lancaster Families:

1. Shows the scale of Greek life affecting DFW students
2. Documents legal entities that may carry insurance coverage
3. Provides starting points for investigations
4. Demonstrates our firm’s investigative depth in hazing cases

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories That Matter for Lancaster Families

How National Patterns Create Local Liability

When a fraternity chapter hazes students at a Texas university, that chapter doesn’t operate in isolation. National headquarters set policies, collect dues, provide training, and maintain oversight. Their knowledge of prior incidents at other chapters creates legal responsibility.

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

• Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State University, 2021 fatal alcohol hazing
• David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois University, 2012 fatal alcohol hazing
• $14 million settlement in Bogenberger case
• Pattern: “Big/Little” nights with forced alcohol consumption

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

• University of Alabama: Traumatic brain injury lawsuit (2023)
• Texas A&M: Chemical burns case (2021)
• UT Austin: Assault case involving exchange student (2024)
• Pattern: Physical violence alongside alcohol hazing

Pi Kappa Phi:

• Andrew Coffey: Florida State University, 2017 fatal alcohol hazing
• Leonel Bermudez: University of Houston, 2025 rhabdomyolysis case
• Pattern: Extreme physical exertion combined with substance consumption

Phi Delta Theta:

• Max Gruver: LSU, 2017 fatal alcohol hazing
• Louisiana Max Gruver Act creating felony hazing statute
• Pattern: Drinking games disguised as “education”

Kappa Sigma:

• Chad Meredith: University of Miami, 2001 drowning death
• $12.6 million jury verdict for parents
• Chad Meredith Law criminalizing hazing in Florida

What “Pattern Evidence” Means for Your Case

When we represent Lancaster families in hazing cases, we demonstrate that national organizations:

1. Knew the Risks: Prior incidents at other chapters showed foreseeable dangers
2. Failed to Act: Inadequate training, supervision, or enforcement
3. Profited Anyway: Continued collecting dues from dangerous chapters
4. Created Culture: Rituals and traditions that encourage abuse

Legal Result: This pattern evidence can support claims for:

• Negligent supervision
• Gross negligence (potentially overcoming sovereign immunity)
• Punitive damages
• Institutional liability beyond individual members

IRS-Cause IQ Brand Overlap: Tracking Nationals Across Texas

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine identifies organizations appearing in both IRS records and metro databases:

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority:

• IRS EIN 364091267 | Waco, TX 76710
• IRS EIN 752609909 | Commerce, TX 75428
• Houston metro chapter | Beaumont metro chapter
• Shows same national brand operating across Texas metros

Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi:

• 8 different Texas EINs from Denton to College Station
• Beaumont metro chapter | Abilene metro chapter
• Academic honor society with statewide presence

Why Overlap Matters:

1. Confirms national reach of organizations
2. Shows multiple legal entities under same brand
3. Provides investigation pathways when one chapter stonewalls
4. Demonstrates scale of potential liability

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery

The Evidence That Wins Cases

In the Leonel Bermudez UH case, several evidence categories proved crucial:

Digital Communications:

• GroupMe chats planning events
• Text messages with “mandatory” directives
  48 Photos/videos of hazing activities
  48 Timestamps proving knowledge and planning

Medical Documentation:

• Hospital records showing rhabdomyolysis diagnosis
• Lab results with critically high creatine kinase levels
• Four days of hospitalization records
• Ongoing treatment plans for kidney damage

University Records:

• UH’s statements calling conduct “deeply disturbing”
• Pi Kappa Phi national’s suspension notice (Nov 6, 2025)
• Charter surrender documentation (Nov 14, 2025)
• Prior disciplinary records for the chapter

Witness Evidence:

• Other pledges who experienced similar treatment
• Former members willing to testify
• Medical personnel who treated injuries
• University officials with knowledge

The Damages Lancaster Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical expenses: ER care, hospitalization, ongoing treatment
• Future medical costs: Kidney monitoring, psychological care, physical therapy
• Lost educational opportunity: Withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships
• Diminished earning capacity: Permanent injuries affecting career prospects

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm):

• Physical pain and suffering: From injuries like rhabdomyolysis
• Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment: Can’t participate in college life as planned
• Reputational harm: Social stigma from publicized hazing

Wrongful Death Damages (If Tragedy Occurs):

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of financial support to family
• Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
• Parents’ and siblings’ grief and suffering

Punitive Damages (When Appropriate):

• Punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
• Deter future hazing
• Available when defendants show conscious indifference

Our Investigative Strategy: The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine Advantage

When Lancaster families choose Attorney911, they benefit from our proprietary investigative system:

Phase 1: Immediate Evidence Preservation

• Digital forensics to recover deleted messages
• Medical record collection and analysis
• Witness identification and initial interviews
• University record requests

Phase 2: Pattern Development

• Cross-reference with national hazing database
• Identify prior incidents at same chapter
• Document national organization knowledge
• Establish foreseeability of harm

Phase 3: Liability Mapping

• Identify all potential defendants:
  • Individual members
  • Chapter officers
  • Local chapter entity
  • National headquarters
  • Housing corporation
  • University
  • Third-party vendors
• Insurance coverage investigation

Phase 4: Expert Collaboration

• Medical experts on injuries
• Toxicologists on alcohol/drug effects
• Greek life culture experts
• Economists on damage valuation
• Digital forensics specialists

Phase 5: Strategic Resolution

• Settlement negotiations with all parties
• Mediation preparation
• Trial readiness if settlement fails
• Appeal planning if necessary

Why Insurance Insider Knowledge Matters

Mr. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney gives us unique advantages:

We Know Their Playbook:

• How insurers value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Reservation of rights strategies
• Coverage exclusion arguments
• Delay tactics to pressure families

We Anticipate Their Moves:

• Independent Medical Exam (IME) strategies
• Surveillance tactics
• Record request games
• Settlement timing pressure

We Counter Effectively:

• Pre-emptive evidence collection
• Expert selection to counter IMEs
• Aggressive discovery to force transparency
• Trial readiness that changes settlement calculus

Practical Guides for Lancaster Families, Students, and Witnesses

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Hazed:

Physical Indicators:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
• Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
• Weight changes from food/water restriction
• Sleep deprivation (late calls, early demands)
• Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if not a drinker)

Behavioral Changes:

• Sudden secrecy about organization activities
• Withdrawal from family and old friends
• Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Defensiveness when asked about the group
• Constant phone monitoring for group chats

Academic Red Flags:

• Grades dropping suddenly
• Missing classes for “mandatory” events
• Losing scholarships or academic standing

Financial Clues:

• Unexpected large expenses
• Buying excessive alcohol or gifts for older members
• Requests for money without clear explanation

How to Talk to Your Child:

1. Ask open questions: “How are things with [organization]?”
2. Listen without judgment: Create safe space for honesty
3. Express concern, not accusation: “I’m worried about your safety”
4. Offer unconditional support: “No group is worth your health”

If You Suspect Hazing:

1. Document everything your child shares (dates, times, details)
2. Preserve evidence: Screenshot texts, photograph injuries
3. Seek medical attention if any physical harm
4. Consult an attorney before contacting the organization
5. Report appropriately: Campus police, local police, Dean of Students

For Students: Is This Hazing? Decision Guide

Ask Yourself These Questions:
Am I being forced or pressured to do something dangerous or degrading?
Would I do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
Is this activity something we hide from university officials or parents?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t do themselves?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about what’s happening?

If You Answered YES:

1. You have rights under Texas law
2. Consent isn’t a defense in hazing cases
3. You can leave the organization at any time
4. Protections exist for those who report

How to Exit Safely:

1. Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend)
2. Send written notice to chapter leadership (email/text for record)
3. Do NOT attend “one last meeting” where pressure may occur
4. Document any retaliation (threats, harassment, property damage)
5. Report retaliation to campus authorities and police

Evidence Collection for Students:

• Screenshot everything: Group chats, DMs, emails
• Record if legal: Texas is one-party consent for recordings
• Photograph injuries: Multiple angles, include scale (coin/ruler)
• Save physical evidence: Clothing, objects used in hazing
• Get medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed

For Witnesses and Former Members

If you witnessed hazing or participated and now regret it:

Your Legal Position:

• You may have criminal exposure depending on your role
• You could be a critical witness for victims
• You might need your own attorney for protection
• Cooperation can reduce your legal risk

How to Help Responsibly:

1. Consult an attorney before making statements
2. Preserve evidence you have access to
3. Consider anonymous reporting if fearful
4. Understand whistleblower protections may apply

Moral Considerations:

• Your testimony could prevent future harm
• Silence often enables continued abuse
• Accountability helps true organizational reform
• Many find legal cooperation brings closure

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKE #1: Letting Your Child Delete Evidence

• What happens: Messages disappear, case weakens
• Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; may be obstruction
• Better approach: Preserve everything; let attorneys review

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization Directly

• What happens: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• Why it’s wrong: Loses element of surprise; alerts defense
• Better approach: Document quietly; attorney handles communication

MISTAKE #3: Signing University “Resolution” Forms

• What happens: May waive legal rights; accept low settlement
• Why it’s wrong: Universities protect themselves first
• Better approach: “I need my attorney to review this first”

MISTAKE #4: Posting on Social Media

• What happens: Defense attorneys screenshot everything
• Why it’s wrong: Creates inconsistencies; may waive privacy
• Better approach: Private documentation only

MISTAKE #5: Waiting for University Investigation

• What happens: Evidence disappears; witnesses graduate; statute runs
• Why it’s wrong: University process ≠ real accountability
• Better approach: Parallel legal action preserves rights

MISTAKE #6: Talking to Insurance Adjusters

• What happens: Recorded statements used against you
• Why it’s wrong: Adjusters work for insurance company, not you
• Better approach: “Please contact my attorney”

MISTAKE #7: Letting Child Attend “One Last Meeting”

• What happens: Pressure, intimidation, extracted statements
• Why it’s wrong: Creates risk; may compromise case
• Better approach: All communication through attorneys

Why Attorney911 for Lancaster Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Texas Hazing Litigation

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.

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 for “intentional acts”
• Deploy Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) to reduce settlements

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):
Our firm is one of the few in Texas involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation. We’ve faced billion-dollar defendants with unlimited legal budgets. This experience directly applies to hazing cases against:

• National fraternities with deep pockets
• Universities with sovereign immunity arguments
• Defense firms specializing in institutional protection

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Results:
We’ve recovered life-changing compensation for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. We understand how to:

• Work with economists on lifetime damage calculations
• Develop life care plans for permanent injuries
• Value young lives with decades of lost potential
• Negotiate from strength, not desperation

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise:
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand both sides of hazing cases. We can:

• Advise on criminal exposure for participants
• Navigate parallel criminal and civil proceedings
• Protect witnesses who need legal guidance
• Understand how criminal outcomes affect civil cases

Investigative Depth and Resources:
Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks 1,423 Greek organizations across Texas. We know how to:

• Obtain deleted digital evidence through forensics
• Subpoena national fraternity records showing prior incidents
• Uncover university files others miss
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Our Approach: Empathy Meets Aggressive Advocacy

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

Compassionate Support:

• We listen without judgment
• We explain options in plain English
• We respect your family’s privacy
• We move at your comfort level

Aggressive Investigation:

• We pursue every lead
• We challenge institutional stonewalling
• We build cases that force accountability
• We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial

Strategic Resolution:

• We negotiate from strength, not weakness
• We consider both settlement and trial options
• We prioritize preventing future harm
• We aim for closure and justice

Serving Lancaster and All of Texas

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Lancaster and all of Dallas County. We understand that:

• Lancaster families have students at universities across Texas
• DFW’s Greek ecosystem extends throughout North Texas
• Local courts and procedures matter in hazing cases
• Distance doesn’t diminish your right to quality representation

Your Next Steps: Consultation and Case Evaluation

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

When you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911, here’s what happens:

Initial Conversation (15-30 minutes):

• We listen to your story without interruption
• We ask clarifying questions about timing, injuries, evidence
• We explain your legal options in plain English
• We discuss realistic expectations and timelines

Evidence Review:

• We look at any documentation you have
• We advise on additional evidence to preserve
• We explain what evidence matters most
• We discuss investigation next steps

Options Discussion:

• Criminal reporting considerations
• Civil lawsuit possibilities
• University disciplinary process navigation
• Insurance claim implications

No-Pressure Decision:

• We don’t pressure you to hire us immediately
• We provide clear information so you can decide
• We respect whatever choice you make
• We’re available for follow-up questions

Our Contingency Fee Structure

We work on a contingency fee basis for hazing cases:

• No upfront costs for our services
• No fee unless we recover compensation for you
• Fee percentage agreed in writing before representation
• Case expenses typically advanced by firm, repaid from recovery

This means Lancaster families can access experienced hazing litigation without financial barriers.

Spanish Language Services Available

Hablamos Español. Mr. Lupe Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can provide consultation and representation entirely in Spanish if preferred. Contact him directly at lupe@atty911.com.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If hazing has impacted your family:

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 or lupe@atty911.com

Office Locations:

• Houston, Texas (Primary)
• Austin, Texas
• Beaumont, Texas

Service Area: Statewide Texas representation

Available: 24/7 for emergencies, regular business hours for consultations

A Final Word to Lancaster Families

Hazing is not “tradition.” It’s not “boys being boys” or “girls having fun.” It’s abuse that destroys lives, families, and futures. The Leonel Bermudez case at UH shows how quickly hazing can turn from “initiation” to hospitalization.

You have rights under Texas law. Your child has protections. Organizations can be held accountable. And you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Whether your child attends UNT just up the road, SMU in Dallas, UT in Austin, A&M in College Station, or any Texas university, we’re here to help. We’ve faced powerful institutions before. We know how to investigate, how to build cases, and how to fight for families like yours.

Call us today. Let’s discuss what happened, explore your options, and decide on the best path forward for your family.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

NEWS COVERAGE OF THE LEONEL BERMUDEZ / UH PI KAPPA PHI HAZING LAWSUIT

Click2Houston (KPRC 2) — “‘Urine was brown’: Pledge sues over severe hazing at University of Houston’s shut down Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”
https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/

ABC13 Eyewitness News (KTRK) — “Waterboarding, forced eating, physical punishment: Lawsuit alleges abuse faced by injured pledge at UH’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”
https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/

Hoodline — “University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Face $10M Lawsuit Over Alleged Hazing and Abuse”
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

“📱 Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case? | Attorney911 Explains”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

“Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case? | Attorney911 with Injury Lawyer Ralph Manginello”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

“Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case | Attorney911 with Ralph Manginello”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

“📢 How Do Contingency Fees Work? Injury Lawyer Explains!”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

ATTORNEY911 MAIN WEBSITE

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-A