The Complete Guide to Hazing Lawsuits in Texas: A Resource for University Park Families

Your Child Was Hazed. What Now?

It starts with a phone call in the middle of the night. Your child, a student at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or another Texas campus, sounds different—exhausted, scared, evasive. They mention “mandatory” late-night meetings, strange injuries they can’t explain, extreme fatigue that goes beyond normal college stress. Or perhaps the call comes from a hospital: your child has been admitted with alcohol poisoning, rhabdomyolysis, or unexplained trauma. The university’s initial response is cautious, the fraternity or sorority is closing ranks, and you’re left with more questions than answers.

If you’re a parent in University Park, your child might attend nearby Southern Methodist University in Dallas or travel to other major Texas universities. Wherever they are, the nightmare of hazing transcends campus boundaries. Right now, in Houston, we’re actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history—proof that these abuses are not relics of the past but present dangers.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for University Park families facing the complex reality of campus hazing. We’ll explain what hazing looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects your child, what we’ve learned from national tragedies, and what practical steps you can take immediately. Our firm, The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC (Attorney911), represents hazing victims and families across Texas, combining deep investigative resources with proven litigation experience against powerful institutions.

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 evidence, coached witnesses)
Universities move quickly to control the narrative
We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

For University Park families unfamiliar with modern Greek life dynamics, hazing has evolved far beyond the stereotypical “pranks” of decades past. Today’s hazing is more psychologically sophisticated, digitally enabled, and often disguised as “tradition” or “team building.”

The Modern Definition: Coercion in the Digital Age

Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. Crucially, “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there is peer pressure and power imbalance. Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing.

Categories of Hazing University Park Families Should Recognize

Alcohol and Substance Hazing

Forced or coerced drinking during “Big/Little” nights, bid acceptance parties, or “family tree” games
Chugging challenges, “lineups” where pledges drink in rapid succession
Pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances
The dangerous pattern: These practices directly mirror the conduct that killed Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University and Max Gruver at LSU

Physical Hazing

Paddling and beatings (still occurring despite national prohibitions)
Extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond normal conditioning
Sleep deprivation through mandatory late-night meetings or tasks
Food/water deprivation as punishment or “discipline”
Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts, degrading costumes, or humiliating positions
Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones
Public shaming in meetings or on social media

Psychological Hazing

Verbal abuse, threats, social isolation from non-members
Manipulation through fear of exclusion or failure
Forced confessions or sharing of embarrassing information
Constant criticism under the guise of “building character”

Digital/Online Hazing

Group chat dares and “challenges” via GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord
Public humiliation through Instagram stories, TikTok videos, or Snapchat
Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos
24/7 availability demands with immediate response expectations
Geo-tracking requirements through apps like Find My Friends

Where Hazing Happens: Not Just “Frat Parties”

University Park parents should understand that hazing extends beyond traditional Greek life:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural councils)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups (particularly relevant for Texas A&M families)
Athletic Teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer, swimming)
Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs (like Texas Cowboys at UT)
Marching Bands and Performance Groups
Some Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations

The common threads across all groups: social status pressure, tradition justification, and enforced secrecy that keeps these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law: What University Park Families Need to Know

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that govern cases affecting University Park families, whether your child attends SMU nearby or any other Texas institution.

Texas Education Code – Chapter 37: The Legal Framework

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

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

Key Points for University Park Families:

Location doesn’t matter—can happen on or off campus
Can be mental or physical harm
Intent: Doesn’t require malicious intent; “reckless” is enough (knew the risk and did it anyway)
“Consent is not a defense” (§ 37.155): Even if the victim agreed, it’s still hazing if it meets the definition

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152)

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

Additional Criminal Exposure:

Failing to report hazing (if you’re a member or officer and you knew about it): misdemeanor
Retaliating against someone who reports hazing: misdemeanor

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153)

Organizations (fraternities, sororities, clubs, teams) can be criminally prosecuted for hazing if:

The org 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 the org from campus

Why This Matters for University Park Families:
This statute shows that both individuals AND the organization can be held accountable. In civil suits, this means we can target the local chapter, national headquarters, housing corporations, and individual members simultaneously.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (§ 37.154)

A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from the report.

Important for University Park Students:

In medical emergencies, Texas law and many university policies provide amnesty for students who call 911, even if they were drinking underage or involved in the hazing themselves
This protection is designed to overcome the “code of silence” that delays medical care

Criminal vs Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases

Brought by the state (prosecutor)
Aim: punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical hazing-related charges can include:
- Hazing offenses
- Furnishing alcohol to minors
- Assault, battery
- Manslaughter or negligent homicide in fatal cases

Civil Cases

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: monetary compensation and accountability
Focus on:
- Negligence and gross negligence
- Wrongful death
- Negligent hiring/supervention
- Premises liability
- Emotional distress

Critical Understanding for University Park Families:
Both types can run side-by-side, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Many families pursue civil litigation even when criminal charges aren’t filed or result in minor penalties.

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)

Requires colleges that receive federal aid to:
- Report hazing incidents more transparently
- Strengthen hazing education and prevention
- Maintain public hazing data (phased in by around 2026)
This increasing transparency helps families identify patterns and prior incidents

Title IX / Clery Act Implications

When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered
Clery requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics
These federal frameworks provide additional avenues for accountability

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students

The ones who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover them up
Can be sued personally (not just through the organization)

Local Chapter / Organization

The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if it’s a legal entity)
Chapter officers and “pledge educators” often have particular responsibility

National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters

Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
Liability often hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents at other chapters

University or Governing Board

Schools may be sued under negligence or civil-rights theories
Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference
Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist

Third Parties

Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces
Bars or alcohol providers (under dram shop theories)
Security companies or event organizers

Every case is fact-specific, but experienced hazing attorneys investigate all potential avenues of liability to ensure full accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

The tragedies that have unfolded on campuses nationwide provide crucial lessons for University Park families. These cases established legal precedents, changed state laws, and revealed patterns that repeat across institutions.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
The bid-acceptance event featured forced drinking leading to Piazza’s fatal falls, captured on chapter cameras. The hours-long delay in calling for help became central to both criminal and civil cases. This case resulted in dozens of criminal charges and Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.

Takeaway for University Park Families: Extreme intoxication combined with delay in calling 911 creates devastating legal exposure. The “culture of silence” can be broken with proper evidence collection.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
The “Bible study” drinking game required pledges to drink when answering questions incorrectly. Gruver’s death from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%) led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, creating felony hazing penalties.

Takeaway for University Park Families: So-called “games” with drinking penalties are among the deadliest hazing methods. National pattern evidence shows these practices recur across chapters.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
Foltz was forced to consume nearly a bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” event. The $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU) demonstrates the substantial financial exposure organizations face.

Takeaway for University Park Families: Universities face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities. Properly structured cases can hold all responsible parties accountable.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
The blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at a fraternity retreat caused fatal head injuries, with delayed medical care. This case resulted in criminal convictions of the national fraternity and a 10-year ban from Pennsylvania.

Takeaway for University Park Families: Off-campus “retreats” can be particularly dangerous as they occur away from campus oversight. National organizations can face severe sanctions beyond individual member liability.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the football program, leading to multiple lawsuits, coach termination, and confidential settlements. This case demonstrated that hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs.

Takeaway for University Park Families: Big-money athletic programs can harbor systemic abuse. Institutional oversight failures apply equally to athletics and Greek life.

What These National Cases Mean for University Park Families

The common threads running through these tragedies—forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, institutional cover-ups—establish patterns that Texas courts recognize. When University Park families face hazing at Texas universities, they’re not navigating uncharted territory but rather building on established legal precedents that have reshaped campus accountability nationwide.

Texas University Focus: Where University Park Students Attend

University Park families often send students to nearby Southern Methodist University or to other major Texas institutions. Each campus has its own Greek life culture, historical incidents, and accountability mechanisms.

Southern Methodist University (SMU): The University Park Connection

Campus & Culture Snapshot
SMU’s location in University Park makes it a natural choice for many local families. The private, affluent campus hosts an active Greek community with approximately 35% of undergraduates participating in fraternities or sororities. The university’s Dallas location places it within the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area, which according to our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine contains 510 Greek-related organizations—the highest concentration in Texas.

Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels
SMU maintains a zero-tolerance hazing policy that applies to all student organizations. Reporting options include:

Office of Student Affairs and Student Conduct
SMU Police Department
Anonymous reporting through the “Real Response” system
Dedicated hazing prevention website with educational resources

Documented Incidents & Responses

Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): The chapter was suspended through 2021 following reports of paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation. This suspension demonstrates SMU’s willingness to impose meaningful sanctions.
Ongoing Transparency: While private universities like SMU have fewer public reporting requirements than public institutions, our experience shows that internal conduct records often reveal patterns of concerning behavior when obtained through proper legal channels.

How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed
Given SMU’s location in University Park, cases typically involve:

Jurisdiction: Dallas County courts and potentially federal court given SMU’s private status and potential Title IX implications
Investigative Agencies: SMU PD, Dallas Police Department, or both depending on incident location
Potential Defendants: Individual students, SMU chapter, national fraternity/sorority, SMU itself, and potentially property owners

What SMU Students & University Park Parents Should Do

Immediate Reporting: Utilize SMU’s multiple reporting channels while simultaneously preserving independent evidence
Medical Documentation: Seek care at appropriate facilities while ensuring “hazing” is documented in medical records
Legal Consultation: Contact experienced counsel familiar with both Texas hazing law and private university dynamics
Evidence Preservation: SMU’s digital campus environment requires particular attention to electronic evidence before university IT systems overwrite data

University of Houston: The Active Litigation Example

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UH’s large urban campus hosts an active Greek community with particular strength in multicultural organizations. The university’s location in Houston places it within a metro area containing 188 Greek-related organizations according to our data.

The Leonel Bermudez Case: Current, Active Litigation
Right now, our firm represents Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, its housing corporation, Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters, the UH System Board of Regents, and 13 fraternity leaders/members. This case provides a real-time example of how serious hazing cases unfold.

The Hazing Allegations in Detail:

“Pledge fanny pack” rule requiring constant carry of degrading items (condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices)
Extreme physical hazing including sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, cold-weather exposure in underwear
Violent acts including being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding” and threats of actual waterboarding
Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting, then repeated sprints
The Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion

Medical Catastrophe:
Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe skeletal muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure. He passed brown urine, could not stand without help, and was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels confirming life-threatening injury. He faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.

Institutional Response:

Nov 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspends the Beta Nu chapter
Nov 14, 2025: Chapter members vote to surrender their charter; chapter is shut down
UH Statement: Called conduct “deeply disturbing,” promised disciplinary measures up to expulsion and cooperation with law enforcement

What This Case Means for University Park Families:
This active litigation demonstrates that severe hazing continues to occur at Texas universities in 2025. The comprehensive defendant list—including national headquarters, housing corporations, and individual members—shows the multi-layered approach necessary for full accountability.

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Texas A&M’s unique Corps of Cadets tradition coexists with a substantial Greek system. The Bryan-College Station metro area contains 42 Greek-related organizations according to our data analysis.

Documented Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The $1 million lawsuit and two-year suspension demonstrate serious consequences.
Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A cadet alleged degrading hacing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose. The case sought over $1 million, highlighting that hazing extends beyond Greek life.
Recent Rhabdomyolysis Cases: Our firm is currently investigating multiple cases involving extreme physical hazing leading to this life-threatening condition.

What Texas A&M Families Should Know:

The intersection of Corps traditions and Greek life creates unique cultural dynamics
University discipline processes often proceed simultaneously with criminal and civil actions
Early evidence preservation is crucial given the tight-knit community dynamics

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Patterns

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UT Austin hosts approximately 60 fraternity and sorority chapters within a campus culture that emphasizes both tradition and transparency. The Austin-Round Rock metro contains 154 Greek-related organizations.

Public Hazing Violations Page:
UT maintains one of Texas’ most transparent hazing reporting systems at hazing.utexas.edu. Recent entries include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation
Multiple Organizations: Sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices

Why UT’s Transparency Matters:
Public violation records provide:

Evidence of prior knowledge and patterns
Support for negligence claims against the university
Historical context for current incidents

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Incident (January 2024):
An Australian exchange student alleged assault at an SAE party resulting in dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose. The chapter was already under suspension for prior violations, demonstrating pattern evidence.

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Accountability

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Baylor’s religious identity and history of scrutiny over institutional responses create unique dynamics for hazing cases. Recent history includes:

Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Ongoing Scrutiny: Following prior institutional crises, Baylor faces particular pressure to demonstrate accountability

What Baylor Families Should Consider:

Religious branding doesn’t eliminate legal liability
Internal processes may prioritize institutional protection
External legal counsel is often necessary to ensure proper investigation

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: What University Park Families Are Actually Dealing With

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—built from IRS records, university data, and organizational databases—reveals the substantial ecosystem behind campus Greek life. For University Park families, understanding this infrastructure is crucial for holding the right parties accountable.

Public Records Directory: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Connected to Texas Universities

If you are a parent in University Park, you deserve to know who really stands behind the Greek organizations connected to your child. Below are examples from our comprehensive database of Texas-registered Greek organizations—these are public records showing the legal entities that may hold insurance and responsibility.

Texas-Registered Greek Organizations (IRS B83 Records Examples):

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc | EIN: 133048786 | 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845-6681 | IRS B83 public filing
Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc | EIN: 462267515 | 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035-6629 | IRS B83 public filing
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc | EIN: 475370943 | 5019 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77204-7005 | Theta Delta chapter | IRS B83 public filing
Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity Texas Gamma Chapter | EIN: 911981478 | 2609 S University Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76109-1149 | IRS B83 public filing
Chi Omega Fraternity | EIN: 740555581 | 2711 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705-4018 | Chi Omega House Corporation | IRS B83 public filing
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc | EIN: 741380362 | PO Box 470061, Fort Worth, TX 76147-0061 | IRS B83 public filing
Gamma Phi Beta Sorority Inc | EIN: 161675890 | 115 Wild Wick Way, The Woodlands, TX 77382-1822 | Zeta Rho HCB | IRS B83 public filing
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity | EIN: 746064445 | 1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627-8843 | Epsilon Kappa Chapter | IRS B83 public filing
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority | EIN: 364091267 | 1101 Melrose Dr, Waco, TX 76710-4154 | Xi Chi chapter | IRS B83 public filing
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi | EIN: 900293166 | 114 Henderson Hall 4233 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-0001 | Texas A&M University chapter | IRS B83 public filing

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro Organizations (Relevant to SMU/University Park):
According to Cause IQ data, the DFW metro contains 510 Greek-related organizations. Examples include:

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity | Fort Worth, TX – 12650 N Beach St #30, Suite 114, Fort Worth, TX 76244
Tri Delta Educational Fund of SMU | Dallas, TX – Educational housing fund, Southern Methodist University
Chi Omega Educational Corporation | Fort Worth, TX – Chi Omega housing/education corporation
Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity – Gamma Psi Chapter | Fort Worth, TX – Chapter at TCU in Fort Worth
Delta Delta Delta – Arlington Alumnae Chapter | Dallas, TX – Alumnae chapter serving Arlington/Dallas

Cross-Validated Brands (Appearing in Both IRS and Metro Data):
These overlaps show how national brands maintain multiple Texas entities:

Beta Upsilon Chi appears in IRS records (EIN: 742911848, Fort Worth) and Cause IQ DFW data
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation appears in both systems
Pi Kappa Alpha maintains Texas-district organizations alongside chapter entities
Sigma Gamma Rho operates multiple Texas chapters with separate legal entities

Statewide Scope:
Our database tracks 1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metros, including:

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land: 188 organizations
Austin-Round Rock: 154 organizations
San Antonio: 86 organizations
Lubbock: 59 organizations
College Station-Bryan: 42 organizations
Waco: 27 organizations

This directory represents just a fraction of our investigative database. We maintain these records so families never start from zero when seeking accountability. When hazing occurs, we already know the names, EINs, and legal relationships of the organizations that may bear responsibility.

Why National Histories Matter: Pattern Evidence

The fraternities and sororities present at Texas universities aren’t isolated local clubs—they’re chapters of national organizations with decades of documented hazing incidents. This history creates what courts call “foreseeability” and supports claims of institutional negligence.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) Pattern:
SAE has faced multiple hazing-related lawsuits nationwide, including:

University of Alabama traumatic brain injury case (2023)
Texas A&M chemical burns case (2021)
University of Texas at Austin assault case (2024)
Multiple alcohol-related deaths historically

When an SAE chapter at a Texas university engages in hazing, the national organization cannot claim “we had no idea this could happen.” The pattern is established across decades and campuses.

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ) Pattern:

Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green State ($10M settlement)
David Bogenberger death at Northern Illinois University ($14M settlement)
Multiple chapter suspensions nationwide

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ) Pattern:

Max Gruver death at LSU (Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act)
Multiple alcohol-related incidents nationally

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ) Pattern:

Andrew Coffey death at Florida State University
Current active litigation at University of Houston (our Bermudez case)

Legal Significance:
These national patterns help establish that:

The risks were foreseeable to national headquarters
Anti-hazing policies were likely inadequately enforced
Prior incidents provided notice that stronger oversight was needed
Punitive damages may be appropriate for reckless disregard of known dangers

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Damages

For University Park families considering legal action, understanding how hazing cases are built can demystify the process and set realistic expectations.

Evidence Collection: The Digital Crime Scene

Modern hazing leaves extensive digital evidence. Our investigative approach mirrors complex litigation techniques we’ve used in BP Texas City explosion cases and major wrongful death matters.

Digital Communications Evidence:

Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, fraternity-specific apps
Social Media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments, Facebook Messenger
Recovery Capability: Even deleted messages can often be recovered through digital forensics or cloud backups
Metadata Analysis: Timestamps, participant lists, editing history can establish timelines and involvement

Photos & Video Evidence:

Content filmed by participants during events
Security camera or doorbell footage at houses and venues
Social media posts before/during/after incidents
Our video on using your phone to document evidence explains best practices for preservation

Internal Organization Documents:

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, tradition lists
Emails/texts from officers about activities
National policies and training materials obtained through discovery
Risk management files showing prior incidents

University Records (Obtained via Public Records Requests or Discovery):

Prior conduct files, probation/suspension records
Incident reports to campus police or conduct offices
Clery Act reports and similar disclosures
Internal emails among administrators

Medical and Psychological Records:

Emergency room and hospitalization records
Surgery and rehabilitation notes
Toxicology reports (blood alcohol, drug panels)
Psychological evaluations documenting PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma

Witness Testimony Development:

Strategic interviews with pledges, members, roommates, RAs
Former members who quit or were expelled
Expert witnesses: medical professionals, Greek life culture experts, digital forensics specialists

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Texas law recognizes several categories of damages in hazing cases. While every case is unique, these general categories help University Park families understand what compensation may address.

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses):

Medical Expenses: Emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, ongoing treatment, future medical needs
Lost Income & Earning Capacity: Missed work, delayed graduation, reduced future earning potential
Educational Costs: Lost tuition, forfeited scholarships, transfer expenses
Life Care Plans: For catastrophic injuries requiring lifelong care (like traumatic brain injuries)

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Compensable):

Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries, treatment, and permanent limitations
Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation, trauma
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Inability to participate in college experiences, activities, relationships
Reputational Harm: Social stigma and public scrutiny

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of financial support and inheritance
Loss of companionship, love, and society
Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering
Loss of guidance and counsel for younger siblings

Punitive Damages (When Appropriate):

Designed to punish particularly reckless or malicious conduct
Available when defendants showed conscious indifference to known risks
Subject to Texas statutory caps in many cases

Case Strategy: Multi-Layered Accountability

Our approach to hazing cases applies lessons learned from complex institutional litigation:

1. Identify All Potential Defendants:

Individual participants and organizers
Chapter officers and advisors
Local chapter as legal entity
Housing corporations and alumni associations
National headquarters and governing boards
Universities and their boards
Third-party property owners and alcohol providers

2. Evidence Preservation Before Destruction:

Immediate injunction requests when necessary
Digital forensics to recover deleted content
Preservation letters to universities and organizations
Securing physical evidence before disposal

3. Insurance Coverage Analysis:

Multiple insurance policies may apply: chapter, national, university, homeowner’s
Coverage disputes common (insurers often argue “intentional act” exclusions)
Our insider knowledge from Mr. Peña’s former defense work helps navigate these battles

4. Strategic Sequencing of Claims:

Often pursue civil claims alongside criminal investigations
Coordinate with prosecutors when appropriate
Use civil discovery to obtain evidence that may aid criminal cases

5. Settlement vs Trial Evaluation:

Most cases settle, but trial readiness improves settlement position
Consider public accountability vs privacy needs
Evaluate non-monetary terms (policy changes, transparency commitments)

Practical Guides & FAQs for University Park Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
Extreme fatigue and sleep deprivation beyond normal college stress
Sudden weight changes from food/water restriction or stress
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability, withdrawal
Constant phone use for group chats with immediate response demands
Financial irregularities: unexpected large expenses, maxed credit cards
Academic decline: dropping grades, missed classes, lost scholarships

How to Talk to Your Child About Concerns:

Choose the right time: Private, calm, without distractions
Use open-ended questions: “How are things going with [organization]?” “Have there been any activities that made you uncomfortable?”
Listen without judgment: Avoid immediate anger or accusations
Emphasize safety over status: Reinforce that their wellbeing matters more than membership
Offer unconditional support: Make clear you’ll help them regardless of circumstances

If You Suspect Hazing Is Occurring:

Document everything your child shares (dates, times, details, names)
Preserve evidence they show you (screenshot messages, photograph injuries)
Seek medical evaluation even for seemingly minor injuries
Consult an attorney before confronting the organization or university
Consider formal reporting through appropriate channels with legal guidance

For Students: Safety Planning and Rights

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment Questions:
9Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
9Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
9Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
9Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
9Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
9Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

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

How to Exit Safely:

If in immediate danger: Call 911 or campus police
Plan your departure: Tell someone outside the organization first
Formal resignation: Send email/text to chapter president: “I am resigning effective immediately”
Avoid “one last meeting”: Don’t attend meetings where pressure or retaliation might occur
Document threats: Save any retaliation evidence (screenshots, recordings, witness names)

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

You cannot be punished for calling 911 in an emergency (good-faith reporter immunity)
Hazing is a crime—you are the victim, not the perpetrator
You can file a civil lawsuit regardless of criminal case outcomes
Consent is not a legal defense to hazing claims
You can request no-contact orders through the university if harassed

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence

What families think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
Why it’s wrong: Looks like obstruction of justice; destroys crucial evidence
Better approach: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

What families think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
Why it’s wrong: Triggers evidence destruction, witness coaching, defense preparation
Better approach: Document everything, then call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms Without Review

What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
Why it’s wrong: May waive legal rights; settlements often undervalue cases
Better approach: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting Details on Social Media

What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Better approach: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

5. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”

What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statutes run
Better approach: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without Counsel

What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
Better approach: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions

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

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the activities?”
Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t voluntary. This legal principle is crucial for University Park families to understand.

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

“What if the hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national organizations can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Many major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, unofficial house incidents) occurred off-campus with substantial judgments.

“Will my child’s name be public?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. We prioritize family privacy while pursuing accountability. You can request sealed records and confidential settlement terms.

“How much does a hazing lawyer cost?”
We work on contingency—no fee unless we recover compensation. Initial consultations are free. Our video explaining contingency fees details how this works.

Why Attorney911 for University Park 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. From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including University Park and the surrounding region.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

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 claims, deploy delay tactics, and argue coverage exclusions. As he says, “We know their playbook because we used to run it.” This insider knowledge is invaluable when facing well-funded institutional defendants.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello)
Mr. Manginello is one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation—taking on billion-dollar defendants with unlimited legal resources. His federal court experience and willingness to face powerful institutions directly translate to hazing cases against national fraternities and universities. We’re not intimidated by their resources because we’ve faced similar challenges before.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results
Our firm has recovered millions for families in complex wrongful death and injury cases. We work with economists, life care planners, and medical experts to build cases that reflect the true value of devastating losses. We don’t settle cheap—we build cases that force accountability.

Criminal + Civil Dual Capability
Mr. Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) signals elite criminal defense capability. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation and can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure. This comprehensive understanding strengthens our civil case strategy.

Investigative Depth & Expert Network
We investigate hazing cases with the same rigor we apply to refinery explosions and commercial trucking crashes:

Digital forensics to recover deleted messages and metadata
Network of medical experts, psychologists, Greek life culture specialists
Experience obtaining hidden university and organizational records
Resources to trace patterns across campuses and years

Spanish-Language Services
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can serve Hispanic families in their preferred language. Se habla Español—contact Mr. Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish.

The Attorney911 Difference: How We Approach Hazing Cases

We Listen First
Your initial consultation is about understanding what happened, not immediately pushing litigation. We’ll listen to your story, review any evidence you’ve preserved, and explain all options clearly.

We Investigate Thoroughly
Before making demands or filing suits, we investigate. We identify all potential defendants, trace organizational relationships through our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, and build a comprehensive evidence file.

We Prepare for Trial from Day One
Even though most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation improves settlement positions and ensures we’re ready if insurers won’t offer fair compensation.

We Communicate Consistently
You’ll never wonder what’s happening with your case. We provide regular updates and are always available to answer questions. Our video on client communication explains our philosophy.

We Prioritize Your Family’s Wellbeing
We understand this is one of the hardest experiences a family can face. We’re not just legal technicians—we’re advocates who care about your child’s recovery and your family’s healing.

Call to Action: Your Next Step as a University Park Family

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether nearby SMU, UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, or any other institution—we want to hear from you. Families in University Park and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

When you contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911, you’ll receive:

A Confidential, No-Obligation Conversation
We’ll listen to what happened without judgment and explain your legal options clearly. There’s no pressure to hire us on the spot—take time to make the right decision for your family.

Case Assessment
Based on the information you provide, we’ll assess the strengths of your case, potential defendants, and realistic timelines. We’ll explain how Texas hazing laws apply to your specific situation.

Evidence Preservation Guidance
We’ll provide immediate guidance on preserving crucial evidence before it disappears. This might include specific instructions for screenshotting messages, photographing injuries, or securing physical evidence.

Options Explanation
We’ll explain all available paths: criminal reporting, civil litigation, university processes, or combinations thereof. We’ll help you understand the pros and cons of each approach.

Cost Transparency
We’ll explain our contingency fee structure clearly—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation. We’ll also discuss potential case expenses and how they’re handled.

Next Steps
If you decide to move forward, we’ll outline exactly what happens next. If you need more time to decide, we’ll respect that without pressure.

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) | lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña – Spanish services available)

Office Locations: Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Service Area: We serve families throughout Texas, including University Park and surrounding communities

Our Promise to University Park Families

We approach every hazing case with the understanding that this isn’t just about legal strategy—it’s about your child’s wellbeing, your family’s healing, and preventing future harm to other students. Whether you’re in University Park or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone.

The call you make today could begin the process of securing accountability, obtaining compensation for damages, and ensuring that what happened to your child doesn’t happen to anyone else. Let us help you navigate this difficult journey with experience, compassion, and determination.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to listen, we’re here to help, and we’re here to fight for the justice your family deserves.

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

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

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 Can Ruin Your Case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How Contingency Fees Work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

https://attorney911.com