Texas Hazing Guide for DISH Families: What You Need to Know About UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor & Fraternity Lawsuits

For DISH Parents: When Your College Student Doesn’t Come Home the Same

It’s late on a Thursday night in Denton County. Your student at the University of North Texas—just a short drive from your home in the Town of DISH—texts that they’re “studying at a friend’s house” and won’t be home. You don’t think much of it until 3 AM, when you get a call from an unknown number. Your child is slurring their words, their voice trembling. “Mom, I think I need help… but don’t call anyone, okay? The brothers said if we get medical attention, they’ll kick us all out.” In the background, you hear chanting, laughter, and the sound of someone vomiting. This isn’t studying. This is hazing, and it’s happening right now to students from DISH and across North Texas.

For families in the Town of DISH, Denton County, and throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area, the reality of modern college hazing is closer than you think. Your children might attend the University of North Texas right here in Denton, commute to Dallas for SMU, or head to Austin for UT, College Station for Texas A&M, or Houston for UH. Wherever they go, the risk remains: determined organizations continue dangerous initiation practices that can lead to hospitalization, permanent injury, or death.

Right now, our firm is actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. We represent Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and 13 individual fraternity leaders. The allegations are shocking: forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting; being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”; extreme workouts including 100+ push-ups and 500 squats; and carrying a degrading “pledge fanny pack” 24/7. Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, passed brown urine, and was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels. As reported by Click2Houston and ABC13, the chapter was suspended and members voted to surrender their charter after the allegations surfaced.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for parents and families in the Town of DISH, Denton County, and across North Texas who need to understand what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas and federal law treats it, what’s happening at our major universities, and what legal options exist when tradition turns to tragedy.

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)

In the first 48 hours:

• Get medical attention immediately
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted: screenshot group chats, photograph injuries, save physical items
• Write down everything while memory is fresh
• Do NOT: confront the organization, sign anything from the university, post details publicly, or let your child delete evidence

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours: Evidence disappears fast. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

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

Understanding Modern Hazing: It’s Not Just “Party Pranks”

For DISH families whose children may be the first in their family to attend college or who are navigating Greek life for the first time, understanding what constitutes hazing is critical. 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. The crucial legal principle that DISH parents must understand: “I agreed to it” does not make it legal or safe when there’s peer pressure and power imbalance. Texas law explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing.

The Five Categories of Modern Hazing

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the deadliest form. It includes forced chugging challenges, “lineup” drinking games, Big/Little nights where pledges are given handles of liquor, and being pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances. The Pi Kappa Phi case at UH involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting.

2. Physical Hazing
Beyond traditional paddling, this now includes extreme “workouts” or “smokings” far beyond normal conditioning—like the 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in the UH case. It includes sleep deprivation (common during “hell weeks”), food/water restriction, and exposure to extreme temperatures. Texas A&M has seen cases where pledges were allegedly subjected to “roasted pig” positions, bound between beds with apples in their mouths.

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
Forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts, degrading costumes, and acts with racial or sexist overtones. These create psychological trauma that can last decades. At various Texas schools, investigations have uncovered traditions involving sexual role-playing and humiliation rituals disguised as “bonding.”

4. Psychological Hazing
Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members, manipulation, forced confessions, and public shaming during meetings. This systematic breakdown of identity is designed to create submission and loyalty to the group above all else.

5. Digital/Online Hazing
The newest frontier. Group chat dares, TikTok “challenges,” pressure to create or share compromising images/videos, 24/7 availability demands via GroupMe or Discord, and geo-tracking requirements. Digital evidence is now crucial in hazing cases, as we discuss in our video on using your phone to document evidence.

Where Hazing Happens: Beyond Fraternity Row

DISH families should understand hazing occurs in multiple campus organizations:

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

The common thread is social status, tradition, and secrecy—organizations with initiation rituals and hierarchical structures are most at risk.

Texas Hazing Law & Liability Framework: What DISH Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hazing Statute

For DISH families navigating a hazing situation, understanding Texas law is foundational. The Texas Education Code defines hazing as 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 purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership.

Key Provisions DISH Parents Must Understand:

• § 37.152 Criminal Penalties: Hazing is a Class B misdemeanor by default. If it causes injury requiring medical treatment: Class A misdemeanor. If it causes serious bodily injury or death: State Jail Felony.
• § 37.153 Organizational Liability: Organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation and lose campus recognition.
• § 37.154 Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting: Those who report hazing in good faith are immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result.
• § 37.155 Consent Not a Defense: This is critical—even if the victim “agreed,” it’s still hazing under Texas law.
• § 37.156 Institutional Reporting: Texas colleges must provide prevention education and publish annual reports of violations.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Different Paths to Accountability

Criminal Cases:

• Brought by the State (District Attorney’s office)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Example: In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, criminal referrals were promised by the university

Civil Cases:

• Brought by victims or surviving families
• Aim: Monetary compensation and institutional accountability
• Legal theories: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
• Crucially: A criminal conviction is NOT required to pursue a civil case

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

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently, strengthen prevention, and maintain public hazing data by 2026. This will increase visibility for DISH families trying to research organizations.

Title IX & Clery Act:
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger. Clery requires reporting certain crimes—hazing often overlaps with assault or alcohol crimes. These federal frameworks provide additional accountability paths beyond Texas law.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

1. Individual Students who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
2. Local Chapter/Organization if it’s a legal entity
3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
4. University or Governing Board under negligence or civil-rights theories
5. Third Parties including landlords, alcohol providers (dram shop liability), security companies

In the UH case we’re litigating, defendants include 13 individual members, the local chapter, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, the housing corporation, UH, and the UH System Board of Regents.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Precedents Tell Us

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern: The Deadliest Script

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
Bid-acceptance event with heavy drinking, severe falls captured on chapter cameras, hours delayed before medical help. Dozens of criminal charges, civil litigation, and Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law resulted. Takeaway for DISH families: Delayed 911 calls and cover-up culture can be legally devastating.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
“Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers meant forced drinking. Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%). Resulted in Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony. Takeaway: Legislative change often follows public outrage.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
Pledge forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night. Multiple criminal convictions, $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU). Takeaway: Universities face significant financial consequences alongside fraternities.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
Big/little event with handle of liquor, died from acute alcohol poisoning. FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life. Takeaway: “Tradition” drinking nights are repeating scripts for disaster.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual at retreat. Fatal traumatic brain injury, delayed 911. National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. Takeaway for DISH families: Off-campus retreats can be as dangerous as parties, and national organizations face serious sanctions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within program. Multiple lawsuits, head coach fired, confidential settlement. Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to big-money athletic programs.

What These Cases Mean for DISH Families:
Common threads—forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, cover-ups—appear in Texas cases too. Multi-million-dollar settlements and reforms typically follow only after tragedy and litigation. Your family doesn’t have to wait for tragedy to seek accountability.

Texas Universities: What’s Happening at Schools DISH Families Attend

Geographic Reality for DISH Families

The Town of DISH in Denton County places your family in the heart of North Texas’s educational landscape. Your children may attend:

• Local/Regional Schools: University of North Texas (Denton), Texas Woman’s University (Denton), Dallas College campuses
• Major Statewide Hubs: University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, University of Houston, Southern Methodist University (Dallas), Baylor University (Waco)
• Other Common Choices: Texas State University (San Marcos), Texas Tech University (Lubbock), University of Texas at Dallas (Richardson)

Wherever they enroll, understanding each campus’s hazing landscape is crucial. Below we detail the five major Texas universities with significant Greek life.

University of North Texas (UNT) – Right in Denton County

For DISH Families: UNT is literally in your backyard—the main campus is in Denton, making it a common choice for local students. Its Greek life is substantial and growing.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• 44,000+ students with active Greek community
• Over 30 fraternities and sororities across four councils
• Historically a commuter school transforming into more residential
• Strong music and arts programs with their own organizational cultures

Hazing Policy & Reporting:
UNT prohibits hazing as defined by Texas law. Reporting channels include Dean of Students Office, UNT Police Department, and online anonymous reporting. Like all Texas public universities, UNT must comply with Chapter 37 reporting requirements.

Recent Context:
While major publicized incidents at UNT have been less frequent than at larger Greek life schools, the proximity to DISH means your students are interacting with the same North Texas Greek ecosystem that spans DFW. The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro has 510+ Greek organizations according to our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine data, creating widespread interconnected risk.

What DISH Families Should Know:

• Hazing incidents may be underreported at regional schools
• Many UNT students also participate in DFW-wide Greek events
• Digital hazing via group chats often crosses campus boundaries
• UNT’s Student Legal Services can provide initial guidance, but for serious cases, specialized hazing counsel is essential

University of Houston (UH) – Where We’re Litigating Right Now

For DISH Families: While Houston is several hours from DISH, UH attracts students from across Texas, including North Texas. The current Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates how quickly hazing can escalate to life-threatening injury.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• 47,000+ students, urban commuter/residential mix
• Active Greek life with multiple councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, MGC, UGC)
• Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Chapter: Now closed after November 2025 suspension and charter surrender

The Active Case We’re Litigating:
As detailed in media coverage from Click2Houston and Hoodline, the allegations against Pi Kappa Phi include:

• “Pledge fanny pack” rule with degrading contents (condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices)
• Extreme physical hazing: sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, cold-weather exposure in underwear, lying in vomit-soaked grass
• Waterboarding simulation: Sprayed in face with hose, threatened with actual waterboarding
• Forced consumption: Milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting, then immediate sprints
• Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats
• Medical consequences: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, brown urine, 4-day hospitalization

UH’s Response:
Called conduct “deeply disturbing,” promised disciplinary measures up to expulsion, cooperation with law enforcement, credited Pi Kappa Phi HQ for decisive action. The chapter is closed.

What DISH Families Should Take from This Case:

1. Hazing can escalate from “tradition” to organ failure in weeks
2. National fraternities often act only after catastrophic injury
3. Universities may acknowledge problems but litigation often drives real change
4. Digital evidence (group chats, texts) is crucial—preserve it immediately

Texas A&M University – Corps Culture and Greek Life Intersection

For DISH Families: Texas A&M in College Station draws students from across Texas, including North Texas. Its unique Corps of Cadets culture creates additional hazing risks beyond Greek life.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• 74,000+ students, strong tradition culture
• Active Greek life with approximately 60 fraternities/sororities
• Corps of Cadets: 2,500+ members with military-style hierarchy
• Recent Lawsuit: Cadet alleged “roasted pig” hazing—bound between beds with apple in mouth during 2023

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):
Two pledges alleged forced strenuous activity with substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, spit poured on them, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. Pledges sued for $1 million; fraternity suspended for two years.

Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023):
As reported in Texas media, a former cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound in “roasted pig” position. Sought over $1 million; A&M stated it handled matter under its rules.

Texas A&M’s Greek Ecosystem – Public Records Reality:
Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks the College Station-Bryan metro’s 42+ Greek organizations. Examples from public IRS filings that DISH families might encounter:

• Sigma Chi Fraternity – Eta Upsilon Chapter (College Station, TX – IRS EIN lookup available)
• Beta Theta Pi – Eta Chapter House Corp (College Station, TX – IRS filing)
• Delta Sigma Theta – Brazos Valley Alumnae (College Station, TX – Cause IQ listing)

What DISH Families Should Know:

• Corps hazing often mirrors military-style abuse patterns
• Chemical burns cases show evolving dangerous methods
• A&M’s tradition culture can normalize excessive behavior
• Both Greek and Corps cases may involve similar defense strategies

University of Texas at Austin – Transparency and Continued Issues

For DISH Families: UT Austin attracts top students from DISH and across Texas. Its public hazing violations page offers transparency but also reveals ongoing problems.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• 52,000+ students, elite academic reputation
• Approximately 60 fraternity/sorority chapters
• Public Hazing Violations Page: Lists organizations, dates, conduct, sanctions—more transparent than many schools

Documented Violations (Examples from UT’s Public Log):

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. Sanction: Probation, hazing prevention education.
• Texas Wranglers (Spirit Group): Sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Australian exchange student alleged assault at party—dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose. Student sued for over $1 million; chapter already under suspension for prior violations.

UT’s Greek Ecosystem – Public Records View:
The Austin-Round Rock metro has 154+ Greek organizations per our data. Examples DISH families might encounter:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Rho Corp. (Austin, TX – Cause IQ listing)
• Delta Tau Delta – Gamma Iota Chapter (Austin, TX – Cause IQ listing)
• Beta Xi House Corp. of Kappa Kappa Gamma (Austin, TX – Cause IQ listing)
• Building Corporation – Alpha Delta Pi (Austin, TX – Cause IQ listing)

What DISH Families Should Know:

• UT’s transparency is unusual—use their violations page to research organizations
• Even with public reporting, violations continue
• “Spirit groups” and non-Greek organizations also haze
• Austin’s off-campus housing scene complicates university oversight

Southern Methodist University (SMU) – Dallas Private School Context

For DISH Families: SMU in Dallas is geographically closest to DISH of the major private universities. Its affluent reputation doesn’t immune it from hazing issues.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• 12,000+ students, private Methodist-affiliated
• Strong Greek life with approximately 30% student participation
• Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, sleep deprived. Chapter suspended until approximately 2021.

SMU’s Greek Ecosystem:
Part of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro’s 510+ organization network. Specific examples:

• Tri Delta Educational Fund of SMU (Dallas, TX – Cause IQ listing)
• Chi Omega Educational Corporation (Fort Worth, TX – Cause IQ listing)
• Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity (Fort Worth, TX – IRS EIN 742911848)

What DISH Families Should Know:

• Private school status affects transparency—less public reporting than public universities
• SMU’s “Rolling Stone party school” reputation attracts certain Greek culture
• Dallas’s wealth can mean better legal defense for organizations
• SMU’s anonymous reporting (Real Response) may be used, but follow-up is crucial

Baylor University – Religious Context and Athletic Hazing

For DISH Families: Baylor in Waco draws Texas students seeking faith-based education. Its recent athletic hazing incidents show no organization is immune.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• 20,000+ students, private Baptist-affiliated
• Recent history of Title IX scrutiny from football sexual assault scandal
• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation; staggered suspensions

Baylor’s Greek Ecosystem:
Part of Waco metro’s 27+ Greek organizations. Examples:

• Phi Gamma Delta – Tau Deuteron Chapter (Waco, TX – Cause IQ listing)
• Kappa Kappa Gamma – Baylor House Board (Waco, TX – Cause IQ listing)
• Baylor Panhellenic Alumnae Association (Waco, TX – Cause IQ listing)

What DISH Families Should Know:

• Religious branding doesn’t prevent hazing
• Athletic team hazing can be particularly hierarchical and secretive
• Baylor’s prior scandals may affect how they handle new allegations
• “Faith-based” arguments may be used in defense—experienced counsel knows how to counter

Texas Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories Meet Local Chapters

Why National Histories Matter for DISH Families

When your child joins a chapter at UNT, UT, A&M, or any Texas school, they’re joining a national organization with a history. That history matters legally because:

1. Foreseeability: If Pi Kappa Alpha had a fatal hazing at Bowling Green (Stone Foltz), then similar “Big/Little” drinking traditions at Texas chapters were foreseeable risks
2. Pattern Evidence: Multiple incidents across states show organizational culture problems
3. Negligence Arguments: Nationals that don’t adequately address known patterns may be negligent

Organization Mapping: National Patterns in Texas Chapters

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike)

• National History: Stone Foltz death (BGSU 2021) – $10M settlement; David Bogenberger death (NIU 2012) – $14M settlement
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UT, Texas A&M, UH, SMU, Baylor, Texas Tech, others
• Local Incident: UT Austin 2023 violation – milk consumption and calisthenics hazing
• Takeaway for DISH Families: This national has deadly alcohol hazing pattern; Texas chapters follow similar scripts

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE)

• National History: Multiple hazing deaths nationally; announced elimination of pledge process in 2014
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UT, Texas A&M, UH, SMU, Texas Tech, others
• Local Incidents: Texas A&M chemical burns case (2021); UT Austin assault case (2024)
• Takeaway: “SAE” has chemical hazing and assault pattern in Texas

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

• National History: Andrew Coffey death (FSU 2017)
• Texas Presence: Chapter at UH (now closed), others in Texas
• Local Incident: UH case we’re litigating – rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
• Takeaway: Same national, same dangerous patterns appearing in Texas

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

• National History: Max Gruver death (LSU 2017) – Louisiana felony hazing law resulted
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UT, Texas A&M, UH, SMU, Texas Tech
• Takeaway: Drinking game hazing pattern established nationally

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)

• National History: Multiple hazing suspensions nationally
• Texas Presence: Chapters at Texas A&M, SMU, Texas Tech, others
• Local Incident: SMU 2017 paddling and drinking hazing
• Takeaway: Physical paddling traditions persist despite known risks

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: What We Track for DISH Families

Our firm maintains comprehensive data on Texas Greek organizations because you can’t litigate what you don’t understand. For DISH families, this means we already know:

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro (Your Region):

• 510+ Greek organizations tracked
• Sample organizations from public records:
  • Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity (Fort Worth, TX – IRS EIN 742911848)
  • Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc (Fort Worth, TX – IRS EIN 741380362)
  • Kappa Delta Sorority – Gamma Beta Chapter (Denton, TX – Cause IQ listing)
  • Phi Chi Theta – Gamma Iota Chapter (Carrollton, TX – Cause IQ listing)

Statewide Network:

• 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros
• 125+ Texas-registered entities in IRS B83 filings
• 96 Texas university campuses
• 36 cross-validated brands appearing in both IRS and Cause IQ data

Why This Matters for Your Case:
When DISH families come to us with hazing concerns, we don’t start from zero. We already know:

• The legal entities behind chapter houses
• Insurance structures and coverage likely available
• National organization histories and prior incidents
• University disciplinary patterns

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy

Evidence Collection: The 2025 Reality

Digital Communications (Most Critical):

• GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord: Screenshot entire threads with timestamps visible
• Social Media DMs: Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook Messenger
• Fraternity-Specific Apps: Many nationals have custom apps
• Deleted Messages: Digital forensics can often recover them—don’t assume deletion is permanent

Watch our video on using your phone to document evidence for proper preservation techniques.

Photos & Videos:

• Injuries: Multiple angles, include ruler for scale, document progression over days
• Events: Location shots, alcohol bottles, paddles, props
• Social Media Posts: Even “fun” posts can show hazing context

Internal Organization Documents:

• Pledge manuals, initiation scripts
• Emails/texts about “traditions” or “what we’ll do”
• National policies showing what they knew

University Records:

• Prior conduct files obtained via discovery
• Clery reports and annual security disclosures
• Internal investigation documents

Medical Records:

• ER/hospitalization records (specifically mention “hazing” to providers)
• Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
• Toxicology reports and lab results (like creatine kinase levels in rhabdomyolysis)

Witness Information:

• Other pledges (often afraid but may cooperate later)
• Roommates, RAs, bystanders
• Former members who quit

Damages: What Can Be Recovered in Texas Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable):

• Medical Bills: Past and future (ER, hospitalization, surgery, therapy)
• Lost Income/Earning Capacity: Missed semesters, delayed career entry, reduced capacity if permanently disabled
• Educational Costs: Lost tuition, scholarships, transfer expenses

Non-Economic Damages:

• Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries
• Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Can’t participate in activities they loved

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

• Funeral/burial costs
• Loss of companionship and support
• Emotional harm to parents/siblings

Punitive Damages (When Available):

• To punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
• Available in Texas under certain circumstances

Case Strategy: How We Approach Hazing Litigation for DISH Families

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation:
Within 24-48 hours, we help families secure digital evidence before deletion, photograph injuries, and document everything while memories are fresh.

2. Comprehensive Investigation:
We use our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine to identify all potentially liable entities: individuals, local chapter, national headquarters, housing corporations, alumni groups, university, third parties.

3. Insurance Coverage Analysis:
Mr. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney is crucial here. He knows how fraternity and university insurers:

• Value (and undervalue) claims
  modern hazing cases where your child may be experiencing harassment via group chat, social media pressure, or digital tracking.

Year-Round vs. “Hell Week”:
Modern hazing isn’t confined to initiation periods. Many organizations maintain control through:

• 24/7 Group Chat Availability: Expected immediate responses at all hours
• Constant “Check-Ins”: Geo-tracking requirements via Find My Friends or Life360
• Social Media Policing: Controlling what pledges can post
• Academic Interference: Mandatory events during exam periods

The “It’s Optional” Loophole:
Organizations increasingly frame hazing as “optional” to create legal cover. In reality:

• Not participating = social exclusion, denial of “big/little” pairing, being labeled “not committed”
• Courts recognize “consent” under power imbalance isn’t true consent
• Texas law explicitly states consent is not a defense

Where Hazing Happens Today

Off-Campus Venue Shifting:
Organizations increasingly move hazing to:

• Airbnb rentals and vacation properties
• Private family homes of members
• Remote retreat centers
• Hotels during “formal” events

Digital Spaces:

• Zoom “Initiation”: Pandemic-era adaptation that continues
• Private Discord/Slack Servers: Where “traditions” are discussed away from university monitoring
• Encrypted Apps: Signal, Telegram for sensitive communications

Third-Party Locations:

• Bars and restaurants (often with complicit management)
• Campgrounds and parks (like Yellowstone Boulevard Park in UH case)
• Rental halls and event spaces

Texas Public Records Directory: Greek Organizations Serving DISH Families

Understanding the Greek Ecosystem Around DISH

For families in the Town of DISH, Denton County, it’s important to understand the scope of Greek life your students may encounter. Below are actual public records of Texas Greek organizations—this isn’t speculation, but documented reality.

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro Area (Your Region):
According to Cause IQ data, this metro has 510+ Greek organizations. Examples from public filings:

• Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity – 12650 N Beach St #30, Suite 114, Fort Worth, TX 76244 (Cause IQ listing)
• Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc – PO Box 470061, Fort Worth, TX 76147-0061 (IRS EIN 741380362)
• Kappa Delta Sorority – Gamma Beta Chapter – Denton, TX (Texas Woman’s Univ. chapter – Cause IQ)
• Delta Delta Delta (Tri Delta) – Arlington, TX (national sorority headquarters in Dallas area)
• Phi Chi Theta – Gamma Iota Chapter – Carrollton, TX (business fraternity chapter)

University of North Texas (Denton) Area Organizations:

• Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity – Mu Gamma Chapter – 920 W Prairie St, Denton, TX 76201-5816 (IRS EIN 262025321)
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – 411 Texas St Rm 219, Denton, TX 76204-0000 (IRS EIN 263170920)

Statewide Network DISH Families Might Encounter:

• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – 1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627-8843 (IRS EIN 746064445)
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – 1101 Melrose Dr, Waco, TX 76710-4154 (IRS EIN 364091267)
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – PO Box 2142, Prairie View, TX 77446-2142 (IRS EIN 237279532)
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – 4233 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-0001 (Texas A&M University – IRS EIN 900293166)

What This Directory Means for DISH Families

These aren’t just names—they’re legal entities with:

• Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) for tax and liability purposes
• Registered addresses for service of legal documents
• Insurance policies that may cover hazing claims
• National affiliations that create additional liability layers

When hazing occurs, we don’t just sue “the fraternity.” We identify and pursue:

1. The undergraduate chapter (if incorporated)
2. The housing corporation (often separate legal entity)
3. The alumni chapter or association
4. The national headquarters
5. Related foundations or educational funds

Practical Guides for DISH Families: What to Do Now

For Parents: Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts (especially if excuses don’t add up)
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Weight loss/gain from food restriction or stress eating
• Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
• Injuries to hands, back, legs from paddling or exercise
• Chemical burns or skin damage
• Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if they don’t normally drink)

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

• Sudden secrecy about organization activities
• Withdrawal from family, old friends, non-group activities
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Defensive when asked about the organization
• Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
• Obsession with pleasing older members
• Talking about “just getting through this”

Academic Red Flags:

• Grades dropping suddenly
• Missing classes or falling asleep in class
• Skipping exams/assignments for “mandatory” events
• Losing scholarships or academic standing

Digital/Social Behavior:

• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
• Anxiety when phone buzzes
• Deleting messages or clearing history obsessively
• Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response
• Social media posts showing concerning activities
• Geo-location tracking apps newly installed

How to Talk to Your Child (Non-Confrontationally)

1. “How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
2. “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
3. “What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
4. “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or you wish you didn’t have to do?”
5. “Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
6. “Do you feel like you can leave if you want to, or would there be consequences?”
7. “Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”

If they open up: Listen without judgment
If they shut down: Don’t force it, but monitor closely and stay ready to intervene

48-Hour Action Checklist for DISH Parents

HOUR 1–6 (IMMEDIATE CRISIS):

• Get medical attention if injured/intoxicated
• Remove child from dangerous situation
• Screenshot any messages they show you
• Photograph visible injuries
• Write down everything they tell you (date, time, what happened, who was there)
• Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

HOUR 6–24 (EVIDENCE PRESERVATION):

• Help child preserve all group chats, DMs, texts (do NOT delete anything)
• Secure clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
• Request copies of all ER/hospital records
• Write down names/contact info for other pledges, bystanders
• Note any communications from school but do NOT respond yet

HOUR 24–48 (STRATEGIC DECISIONS):

• Speak with experienced hazing attorney (Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911)
• Decide whether to report to campus/local police, Dean of Students (with lawyer’s guidance)
• If school contacts you, refer them to your attorney
• Do NOT talk to insurance adjusters without lawyer present
• Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage

WEEK ONE PRIORITIES:

• Continue documenting injuries; see specialists if needed
• Attorney begins subpoenaing records, obtaining deleted messages
• Attorney contacts other pledges and witnesses
• Decide on criminal report, civil suit, both, or university process
• Document and report any retaliation immediately

For Students: Is This Hazing? Decision Guide

Ask yourself:
.

• Fight coverage exclusions and intentional act arguments
• Pursue bad faith claims when insurers wrongfully deny

4. Settlement vs. Trial Strategy:
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial because:

• Trial readiness improves settlement leverage
• Universities/fraternities know which lawyers will actually go to court
• Some cases need public trial for true accountability

5. Coordination with Criminal Proceedings:
When criminal charges exist (common in serious hazing cases), we:

• Coordinate with criminal defense counsel if needed
• Understand how criminal proceedings affect civil timelines
• Use criminal investigation findings to strengthen civil case

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

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

• What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
• Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; can be obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
• What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

• What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
• Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• What to do instead: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms

• What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements
• Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue; settlements are often far below case value
• What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review first

4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer

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

5. Letting Your Child Go Back to “One Last Meeting”

• What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
• Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt the case
• What to do instead: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer

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

• What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
• Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
• What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer

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

Watch our video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case for more guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions for DISH Families

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UNT, UT, Texas A&M, UH) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals personally. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas Education Code §37.152 classifies hazing as Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

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

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

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

“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“How much does it cost to hire a hazing lawyer?”
We work on contingency fee basis—no upfront costs, no fee unless we win. Learn how this works in our video on contingency fees.

About Attorney911: Why DISH Families Choose Us for Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Texas Hazing Litigation

When your DISH family faces a hazing case, 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):

• Former insurance defense attorney at a national firm
• Knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello):

• One of few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation against billion-dollar corporations
• Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
• Not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams
• “We’ve taken on the biggest defendants and won.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience:

• Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
• Experience valuing lifetime care needs (brain injury, permanent disability)
• Economists and life care planners on our expert team
• “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise:

• Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
• Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
• Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
• Knows when to coordinate with criminal defense counsel

Investigative Depth & Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine:

• Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
• Experience obtaining hidden evidence (group chats, chapter records, university files)
• 1,423 Greek organizations tracked across 25 Texas metros
• “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Spanish-Language Services:

• Hablamos Español – Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
• Full service for Hispanic families in DISH and across Texas
• Cultural understanding of Texas demographics

We Serve DISH Families Throughout Texas

From our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including the Town of DISH, Denton County, and across North Texas. Whether your child attends UNT right here in Denton County, heads to UT Austin, Texas A&M, UH, SMU, Baylor, or any Texas campus, we have the expertise and resources to help.

We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families in DISH just as it does in Houston, College Station, or Austin. The same national fraternities operate here, the same insurance companies provide coverage, and the same institutional defense strategies get deployed. Our experience in the active UH Pi Kappa Phi case right now proves we’re not just talking about hazing—we’re fighting it in court.

Your Next Step: Confidential Consultation for DISH Families

What to Expect When You Contact Us

Free, Confidential Consultation:

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

How We Can Help Your DISH Family:

• Immediate evidence preservation before deletion
• Comprehensive investigation using our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine
• Identification of all liable parties: individuals, chapters, nationals, universities
• Insurance coverage analysis and negotiation
• Expert coordination: medical, psychological, economic, digital forensics
• Trial preparation—we prepare every case as if it’s going to court
• Privacy protection throughout the process

Contact Attorney911 Today

If hazing has impacted your DISH family, you don’t have to face this alone.

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
24/7 Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello), lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña)

Hablamos Español – Contact Mr. Peña for consultation in Spanish

Serving: Town of DISH, Denton County, Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro, and throughout Texas

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 YouTube 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

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 specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many 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