The Complete Guide to Hazing Laws & Lawsuits for Families in Tom Bean, Texas

If Your Child Was Hazed in Texas, You Are Not Alone

Imagine a Thursday night in Tom Bean. Your phone rings, and it’s your child calling from their university dorm, their voice strained. They’re trying to sound normal, but you hear the fear. They mention “pledge activities” that kept them up until 3 AM, “mandatory workouts” that left them bruised, and group chat demands that come at all hours. They say it’s “just how it’s done” to join the group they admired, but the exhaustion in their voice tells a different story. As a parent in Grayson County, your instinct screams that something is wrong.

This scenario unfolds across Texas right now. And in Houston, it became a medical catastrophe and a landmark lawsuit that shows exactly what families are up against—and what real accountability looks like.

Right now, our firm represents Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who endured what federal court documents describe as months of systematic hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter. The allegations, detailed in a $10 million lawsuit, include forced humiliation through a “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms and sex toys, extreme physical abuse including being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and violent workouts that culminated in rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. According to hospital records cited in the complaint, his urine turned brown, he couldn’t stand without help, and he required a four-day hospitalization with critically elevated creatine kinase levels confirming severe muscle breakdown. The chapter was suspended by its national headquarters and then shut down after members voted to surrender their charter.

We are Attorney911, The Manginello Law Firm. We are Texas-based hazing litigation specialists, and we serve families throughout our state, including right here in Tom Bean, Grayson County, and across North Texas. This guide exists for one reason: to give you, a Texas parent, the comprehensive information you need to recognize hazing, understand your legal rights, and know how to protect your child when institutions fail them.

Immediate Help for Hazing Emergencies in Tom Bean

If you suspect your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

• Get medical attention immediately, even if your child insists they’re “fine”
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
  • Photograph injuries from multiple angles
  • Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing)
• Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity/sorority directly
  • 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 Texas hazing attorney within 24–48 hours. Evidence disappears fast—deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses. Universities move quickly to control narratives. We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights from our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like on Texas Campuses

For parents in Tom Bean, understanding modern hazing means looking beyond old stereotypes of simple pranks or harmless initiation. Today’s hazing is often digitally coordinated, psychologically sophisticated, and carefully hidden from university oversight—even as it causes physical and emotional harm.

A Modern Definition for Texas Families

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. Under Texas law, it doesn’t matter if your child “agreed” to participate. The power imbalance between pledges and members, combined with fear of social exclusion, creates coercion that the law recognizes.

The Five Main Categories of Hazing Today

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common—and most deadly—form of hazing. It’s not “just college drinking.” It’s forced, coerced, or pressured consumption as a condition of membership. Examples include:

• “Big/Little” nights where pledges are given entire bottles of liquor
• Lineup drinking games where wrong answers mean chugging
• “Family tree” rituals with rapid consumption requirements
• Being pressured to consume unknown substances or dangerous mixtures

2. Physical Hazing
Beyond traditional paddling, physical hazing has evolved into what groups often call “conditioning” or “training”:

• Extreme calisthenics (“smokings”)—100+ push-ups, 500 squats until collapse
• “Workouts” at odd hours in remote locations like parks
• Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions” or 3 AM wake-up calls
• Food/water restriction or forced consumption of disgusting combinations
• Exposure to extreme cold/heat without proper protection

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
These acts cause deep psychological trauma:

• Forced nudity or partial nudity during rituals
• Simulated sexual acts or degrading positions
• Wearing humiliating costumes or carrying embarrassing items (like the “pledge fanny pack” in the UH case)
• Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones

4. Psychological Hazing
The invisible wounds can be as damaging as physical ones:

• Verbal abuse, screaming, and constant criticism
• Isolation from non-member friends and family
• Manipulation through “confession” sessions
• Public shaming in meetings or on social media
• Threats of expulsion for “failure” to comply

5. Digital/Online Hazing
The newest frontier, perfectly suited to today’s always-connected students:

• 24/7 group chat monitoring with immediate response demands
• Social media dares and challenges posted publicly
• Forced creation of compromising TikTok or Instagram content
• Geo-tracking requirements through apps like Find My Friends
• Cyber-bullying and harassment when pledges don’t comply

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

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

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural groups)
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / military-style groups, especially at Texas A&M
• Spirit squads and tradition clubs like Texas Cowboys at UT
• Athletic teams from football to cheerleading
• Marching bands and performance groups
• Academic clubs and honor societies

For Tom Bean families, this means your child doesn’t have to join a Greek organization to be at risk. Any group with a power imbalance between new and existing members can develop hazing dynamics.

Texas Hazing Law: What Grayson County Families Need to Know

Texas has specific, strong anti-hazing laws that apply whether the conduct happens in Austin, College Station, or to your Tom Bean student at any Texas university. Understanding this framework is your first step toward accountability.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hazing Statute

Texas law defines hazing broadly and provides serious consequences. According to Section 37.151 of the Education Code, hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, 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 Tom Bean parents:

• Location doesn’t matter—off-campus houses, retreats, and even Tom Bean locations if a local group is involved
• Mental OR physical harm qualifies—PTSD and humiliation count alongside broken bones
• “Reckless” is enough—they don’t need to have intended harm, just disregarded obvious risk
• Consent is NOT a defense (Section 37.155)—even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law

Section 37.152 establishes these penalties:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
• Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
• State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

Additional criminal provisions:

• Failing to report hazing if you’re a member/officer who knew: misdemeanor
• Retaliating against someone who reports: misdemeanor
• Organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation (Section 37.153)

Organizational Liability: Holding Groups Accountable

Texas law specifically allows prosecution of organizations (fraternities, sororities, clubs) if:

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

This is crucial for Tom Bean families: you’re not just up against individual students. The chapter, the national headquarters, the housing corporation—all can face criminal and civil consequences.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting

Section 37.154 protects those who report:
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.

Most Texas universities have complementary amnesty policies for students who call 911 in alcohol-related emergencies, even if they were drinking underage. The message: saving a life comes first.

How Texas Law Compares to Other States

Texas has solid hazing laws, but other states have strengthened theirs after tragedies:

• Pennsylvania (Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law): Enhanced penalties after Penn State death
• Louisiana (Max Gruver Act): Felony hazing statute after LSU death
• Ohio (Collin’s Law): Felony when drugs/alcohol cause physical harm
• Florida (Chad Meredith Law): Criminalized hazing after drowning death

Texas falls in the middle—strong but with room for the kind of legislative improvement that often follows cases like the UH Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit we’re currently litigating.

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

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

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

Title IX
When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger. Universities must investigate and take prompt action.

Clery Act
Requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics. Hazing incidents often overlap with Clery-reportable crimes like assault, alcohol offenses, or sexual violence.

For Tom Bean families, this means multiple legal frameworks may apply to your child’s situation, creating additional leverage for accountability.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding Your Options

When hazing occurs, two parallel legal paths may unfold. Understanding both helps Tom Bean families make informed decisions.

Criminal Cases: The State’s Role

• Brought by: The state (county or district attorney)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Outcome: Criminal record, possible incarceration

Civil Cases: Your Family’s Path to Accountability

• Brought by: Victims or surviving families (you)
• Aim: Monetary compensation and institutional change
• Legal theories: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
• Outcome: Financial compensation, policy changes, public accountability

Critical point: You don’t need a criminal conviction to pursue a civil case. The standards of proof are different (beyond reasonable doubt for criminal vs. preponderance of evidence for civil), and the purposes are different. Many families pursue both tracks simultaneously.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

1. Individual Students
The ones who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up.

2. Local Chapter/Organization
The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if incorporated), plus officers acting in official capacity.

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters
Often the deepest pockets and most important target. Liability hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents at other chapters.

4. University or Governing Board
Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity but can be sued for gross negligence or Title IX violations. Private schools (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections.

5. Third Parties

• Property owners/landlords of off-campus houses
• Bars or alcohol providers (under dram shop theories)
• Security companies or event organizers
• Alumni advisors or housing corporations

In our UH Pi Kappa Phi case, we named 13 individual members, the chapter, the national Pi Kappa Phi organization, the housing corporation, the University of Houston, and the UH System Board of Regents. This comprehensive approach ensures all responsible parties are held accountable.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What History Teaches Us

Major hazing cases across the country establish patterns that repeat in Texas. Understanding these precedents helps Tom Bean families recognize their situation isn’t unique—and that legal accountability is possible.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern: The Most Common Tragedy

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
During a bid-acceptance event, 19-year-old Timothy was forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol. He fell multiple times, suffering traumatic brain injuries. Fraternity members delayed calling 911 for hours. The security camera footage showed the horrific sequence. Result: Dozens of criminal charges, multi-million-dollar civil settlements, and Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
During a “Bible study” drinking game, Max was forced to drink when answering questions incorrectly. His blood alcohol content reached 0.495%. He died from alcohol poisoning. Result: Criminal convictions, civil settlements, and Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act creating felony hazing charges.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
A “Big/Little” night ended with Stone consuming nearly a full bottle of whiskey. He died from alcohol poisoning. Result: Multiple criminal convictions, chapter members ordered to pay $6.5 million personally, and BGSU settling for nearly $3 million.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
During a “Big Brother” event, Andrew was given a handle of liquor. He died from acute alcohol poisoning. Result: Criminal hazing charges, FSU suspending all Greek life temporarily.

Why this matters for Tom Bean families: These cases show identical patterns to what we see in Texas—structured drinking events, pressure to consume dangerous amounts, and delayed medical response. The legal outcomes prove universities and nationals can be held accountable.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern: Beyond Alcohol

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
During a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains, Michael was blindfolded, weighted down with a backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a “glass ceiling” ritual. He suffered fatal head injuries while members delayed calling 911. Result: Multiple criminal convictions, the national fraternity banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years, and significant civil settlements.

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)
During a “pledge dad reveal” night, 18-year-old Danny was forced to drink until he passed out. He suffered severe, permanent brain damage—he cannot walk, talk, or see and requires 24/7 care. Result: Multiple criminal charges, civil settlements with 22 defendants, and the chapter closed.

Why this matters for Tom Bean families: Physical hazing causes catastrophic injuries beyond alcohol poisoning. The legal system recognizes these as severe personal injuries warranting substantial compensation for lifelong care needs.

Athletic Program Hazing: Not Just Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025)
Former players alleged widespread sexualized, racist hazing within the football program over years. Allegations included forced naked activities, racial discrimination, and abusive “traditions.” Result: Multiple lawsuits, head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired (and later settled a wrongful termination suit), and the university facing massive liability.

Western Kentucky University Swim Team (2012-2015)
Investigation revealed hazing dating back years, including verbal and physical abuse. Result: Entire swim program suspended for five years, coaching staff terminated, and a $75,000 settlement with a former team member.

Why this matters for Tom Bean families: If your child is an athlete, they’re not immune. Big-money athletic programs sometimes harbor the worst hazing cultures, covered up by coaching staffs prioritizing wins over safety.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

1. Patterns repeat: The same scripts—Big/Little nights, forced drinking games, physical “conditioning”—appear nationwide, including in Texas.

2. Cover-ups are standard: Delaying 911 calls, destroying evidence, coaching witnesses—these aren’t anomalies; they’re standard operating procedure in hazing cases.

3. Accountability is possible: Multi-million-dollar settlements, criminal convictions, and chapter closures show the legal system can deliver justice.

4. Legislative change follows tragedy: Many states strengthened laws only after high-profile deaths. Texas may see similar reforms following cases like our UH lawsuit.

For Tom Bean parents, these national cases provide both warning and hope: warning that hazing follows predictable, dangerous patterns; hope that experienced legal counsel can secure accountability and compensation.

Texas University Focus: Where Tom Bean Students Attend

Tom Bean families send students to universities across Texas. Understanding the specific hazing landscapes at these schools—their policies, their histories, their response patterns—is crucial for protection and accountability.

University of Houston: Current Ground Zero for Texas Hazing Litigation

For Tom Bean Families: While UH is several hours from Grayson County, many North Texas students attend, and the legal precedents established there affect all Texas hazing cases. The ongoing Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit we’re leading sets important standards for institutional accountability.

Campus Culture Snapshot

• Large urban commuter school with growing residential population
• Active Greek life with approximately 50 fraternity/sorority chapters
• Diverse student body with strong NPHC (Divine Nine) presence
• Multiple hazing incident reports annually through official channels

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
UH prohibits hazing both on and off campus, defining it broadly to include forced consumption, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and mental distress. Reporting channels include:

• Dean of Students Office
• Campus Police (UHPD)
• Online reporting forms
• Anonymous hotlines

Documented Incidents & Response
2016 Pi Kappa Alpha Case: Pledges allegedly deprived of food, water, and sleep during multi-day event; one student suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed. Chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and suspension.

Current Pi Kappa Phi Case (Our Lawsuit): Allegations include systematic hazing from September-November 2025, culminating in rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure. Chapter suspended by nationals November 6, 2025, then closed after members surrendered charter November 14, 2025.

UH’s public response to our case: Called conduct “deeply disturbing,” promised disciplinary actions up to expulsion, and stated cooperation with law enforcement.

How a UH Hazing Case Proceeds

• Criminal: Harris County District Attorney or Harris County Sheriff may investigate
• Civil: Filed in Harris County courts (where we filed our Pi Kappa Phi case)
• University: Internal conduct process through Dean of Students
• Key evidence: Group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp), medical records, witness statements from other pledges

What UH Students & Parents Should Do

1. Document everything immediately—screenshots don’t last
2. Report to both UHPD and Houston Police Department for dual jurisdiction
3. Request prior conduct records for the organization through public records requests
4. Seek medical attention even for “minor” injuries—documentation is crucial
5. Contact experienced Houston-based hazing counsel familiar with UH’s specific landscape

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

For Tom Bean Families: As the closest major university to Grayson County (approximately 3.5 hours), Texas A&M draws many North Texas students. Its unique Corps of Cadets culture presents specific hazing risks alongside traditional Greek life concerns.

Campus Culture Snapshot

• Premier public university with strong traditions
• Corps of Cadets with approximately 2,300 members
• Large Greek system with about 60 fraternities/sororities
• Culture emphasizing tradition, loyalty, and sometimes “toughness”

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
A&M prohibits hazing through Student Rules and Corps regulations. Reporting options:

• Student Conduct Office
• Corps of Cadets Commandant’s Office
• University Police Department
• Anonymous reporting systems

Documented Incidents & Response
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. Pledges sued for $1 million; chapter suspended.

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023): Cadet alleged degrading hazing including being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. Sought over $1 million; A&M stated it handled internally.

Texas A&M Hazing Reporting Portal Data: Public logs show multiple fraternities on probation or suspended for hazing violations annually.

How an A&M Hazing Case Proceeds

• Criminal: Brazos County District Attorney investigates
• Civil: Filed in Brazos County courts
• Corps cases: Internal military-style discipline plus potential civilian litigation
• Complexity: Often involves both university and military-style chain of command issues

What A&M Students & Parents Should Do

1. Distinguish between “hard training” and illegal hazing—pain with purpose vs. pain for humiliation
2. For Corps members, understand both university policies AND military regulations apply
3. Document injuries immediately—Corps and Greek life both have strong “don’t snitch” cultures
4. Consider both civil litigation AND internal military discipline proceedings
5. Seek counsel experienced with A&M’s unique dual culture (civilian university + military corps)

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Tradition

For Tom Bean Families: UT Austin attracts ambitious students from across Texas, including Grayson County. Its relatively transparent hazing violation reporting provides valuable data for families evaluating organizations.

Campus Culture Snapshot

• Flagship public university with about 50,000 students
• Strong Greek life with historical ties to campus traditions
• Public hazing violation logs since 2018 (hazing.utexas.edu)
• Active spirit organizations with hazing histories

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
UT maintains one of Texas’s most transparent hazing databases, listing organizations, violations, and sanctions. Reporting through:

• Office of the Dean of Students
• University Police Department
• Online reporting forms
• Title IX Office for sexualized hazing

Documented Incidents & Response
Public Hazing Violations Database Examples:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. Sanction: Probation and mandatory hazing prevention education.
• Texas Wranglers (multiple years): Spirit group sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon: Ongoing investigations and prior suspensions.

Key Insight: UT’s transparency allows families to check an organization’s history before joining—a valuable prevention tool.

How a UT Hazing Case Proceeds

• Criminal: Travis County District Attorney
• Civil: Filed in Travis County courts
• Evidence advantage: Prior violations database provides pattern evidence
• Title IX component: Many hazing cases involve sexual harassment elements

What UT Students & Parents Should Do

1. CHECK THE DATABASE before allowing your child to join any organization
2. Document everything—UT’s process is more transparent but still institutional
3. Use public records requests to obtain full investigation files, not just summary reports
4. Consider how UT’s “tradition” culture may normalize dangerous behaviors
5. Seek counsel experienced with Travis County courts and UT’s specific administrative processes

Southern Methodist University: Private University Dynamics

For Tom Bean Families: SMU’s private status and affluent student body create unique dynamics. While farther from Grayson County, its legal precedents affect all Texas private university hazing cases.

Campus Culture Snapshot

• Private university with strong Greek life influence
• Affluent student population
• Smaller, more insular Greek community than public universities
• Different disciplinary processes as a private institution

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
SMU prohibits hazing and offers:

• Office of Student Affairs reporting
• Anonymous reporting through Real Response system
• Greek Life Office oversight
• Title IX Office for harassment cases

Documented Incidents & Response
Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, deprived of sleep. Chapter suspended for approximately four years.

SMU’s Approach: Less public transparency than public universities, but internal disciplinary processes can be rigorous. Private status means different public records access.

How an SMU Hazing Case Proceeds

• Criminal: Dallas County District Attorney
• Civil: Filed in Dallas County courts
• Discovery challenges: Fewer public records, more reliance on litigation discovery
• Insurance dynamics: Often different coverage than public universities

What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

1. Understand private university means less transparency—you’ll need litigation to get records
2. Document meticulously—internal processes favor the institution
3. Consider simultaneous criminal reports to Dallas PD to create public record
4. Evaluate organization national histories thoroughly—local chapter may hide past
5. Seek counsel experienced with private university litigation and Dallas courts

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Institutional History

For Tom Bean Families: Baylor’s religious identity and past scandals create complex dynamics. Its response to hazing incidents reflects broader institutional patterns.

Campus Culture Snapshot

• Private Baptist university
• History of sexual assault scandal and institutional reform efforts
• Strong athletic culture with hazing incidents
• Religious identity influencing disciplinary approach

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
Baylor prohibits hazing through student conduct policies. Reporting through:

• Student Conduct Administration
• Title IX Office
• Athletic Department for team hazing
• Anonymous reporting options

Documented Incidents & Response
Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation. Suspensions staggered during season.

Institutional Context: Following major sexual assault scandal, Baylor implemented reforms but questions remain about institutional consistency.

How a Baylor Hazing Case Proceeds

• Criminal: McLennan County District Attorney
• Civil: Filed in McLennan County courts
• Religious exemption considerations: Some unique legal aspects
• Institutional history: Past scandal affects current responses

What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

1. Document immediately—institutional response may prioritize reputation
2. Consider both university conduct process AND external legal action
3. Evaluate athletic department dynamics separately from general student conduct
4. Understand religious identity may influence internal procedures
5. Seek counsel experienced with Baylor’s specific institutional history and patterns

The Local Greek Ecosystem Around Tom Bean: What Grayson County Families Need to Know

Tom Bean sits in Grayson County within the Sherman-Denison metropolitan area. While our city itself doesn’t host major university campuses, understanding the regional Greek ecosystem helps families comprehend what organizations their children may encounter at nearby schools or when they leave for larger universities.

North Texas Universities Tom Bean Students Attend

Austin College (Sherman, TX)
Just minutes from Tom Bean, Austin College hosts several Greek organizations. While smaller than major universities, hazing risks still exist. Documented organizations include:

• Social fraternities and sororities
• Academic honor societies
• Service organizations

Grayson College
The local community college may have student organizations with affiliation to larger national groups that maintain chapters at four-year institutions.

Regional Universities Tom Bean Families Commonly Choose

• University of North Texas (Denton) – 45 minutes away
• Texas A&M University-Commerce – 1 hour away
• Texas Woman’s University (Denton) – 45 minutes away
• Midwestern State University (Wichita Falls) – 1.5 hours away

Public Records: Greek Organizations Connected to North Texas

Our firm maintains a Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracking over 1,400 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros. For the Sherman-Denison metro area and surrounding North Texas region, public records show registered organizations that may connect to Tom Bean students:

IRS B83-Registered Organizations in North Texas:

• EIN 263170920: Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – 411 Texas St Room 219, Denton, TX 76204 (IRS B83 filing)
• EIN 752620706: Zeta Sigma House Corporation of Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity Inc – 704 Cristler Ave, Dallas, TX 75223 (IRS B83 filing)
• EIN 521278573: Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – 3837 Simpson Stuart Rd, Dallas, TX 75241 (IRS B83 filing)
• EIN 521345182: Psi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated – PO Box 51168, Fort Worth, TX 76105 (IRS B83 filing)
• EIN 264080411: National Pan-Hellenic Council North Dallas Suburbia – PO Box 112997, Carrollton, TX 75011 (IRS B83 filing)

Cause IQ Metro Organizations Documented in Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro (510 total organizations):

• Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity – Fort Worth, TX
• Delta Delta Delta (Tri Delta) – Arlington, TX
• Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity – Tau Deuteron Chapter – Waco, TX
• Zeta Beta Tau – Texas Lambda Chapter – Austin, TX
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity – Texas Rho Corp. – Austin, TX
• Delta Tau Delta Fraternity – Gamma Iota Chapter – Austin, TX

Why This Data Matters for Tom Bean Families:
When your child joins a fraternity or sorority at a Texas university, they’re not just joining a campus club. They’re connecting to a network of legally registered organizations with tax IDs, insurance policies, and national structures. Our ability to trace these connections—from the local chapter to the national headquarters to the housing corporation—is what builds comprehensive lawsuits that secure accountability.

Major University Destinations for Tom Bean Students

Beyond local options, Tom Bean families commonly send students to:

University of North Texas (Denton)

• 30+ Greek organizations
• Documented hazing incidents in recent years
• Active NPHC and multicultural Greek councils

Texas Tech University (Lubbock)

• Major destination for West Texas/North Texas students
• Large Greek system with approximately 40 chapters
• Documented hazing cases including physical abuse allegations

Texas A&M University (College Station)

• As discussed, major draw with unique Corps culture
• One of nation’s largest Greek systems
• Multiple documented hazing lawsuits and suspensions

University of Texas at Austin

• Flagship campus attracting high-achieving students
• Transparent violation database valuable for research
• Historical hazing issues in spirit organizations and Greek life

For Tom Bean parents, understanding this ecosystem means recognizing that your child’s local affiliation may connect to national patterns of misconduct. The fraternity at UNT may share the same national headquarters—and the same hazing history—as chapters at UT or Texas A&M that have faced serious allegations.

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories That Repeat in Texas

National Greek organizations don’t operate in isolation. Their histories of hazing incidents across the country establish patterns that repeat in Texas chapters. Understanding these national histories helps Tom Bean families recognize when their child’s organization follows dangerous scripts.

Why National Histories Matter in Court

When we file a hazing lawsuit, we don’t just look at what happened to your child. We investigate what the national organization knew about similar conduct at other chapters, and when they knew it. This establishes:

Foreseeability: The national knew or should have known this type of hazing was likely
Pattern and Practice: This wasn’t a “rogue chapter” but part of a systemic problem
Notice: The national had been put on notice by prior incidents but failed to act adequately
Gross Negligence: Their failure to prevent known risks rises beyond ordinary negligence

Major National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

• Stone Foltz (Bowling Green, 2021): Alcohol poisoning death, $10 million settlements
• David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois, 2012): Alcohol poisoning death, $14 million verdict
• Texas Chapters: Multiple violations at UT, Texas A&M, other Texas schools
• Pattern: Big/Little nights with forced drinking, tradition of alcohol hazing

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

• National Pattern: Multiple hazing deaths nationwide leading to elimination of pledge program in 2014
• University of Alabama (2023): Traumatic brain injury lawsuit
• Texas A&M (2021): Chemical burns lawsuit
• UT Austin (2024): Assault lawsuit involving exchange student
• Pattern: Physical violence, dangerous initiations, alcohol coercion

Pi Kappa Phi

• Andrew Coffey (Florida State, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death
• Current UH Case (Our Lawsuit): Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
• Pattern: Physical hazing combined with alcohol, “traditions” of endurance tests

Phi Delta Theta

• Max Gruver (LSU, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death, Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act
• National Response: Implemented alcohol-free housing policy
• Pattern: Drinking games disguised as “education” or “tradition”

Kappa Alpha Order

• Multiple Suspensions: Nationwide for paddling, alcohol hazing
• SMU Chapter: Suspended 2017-2021 for hazing violations
• Pattern: Physical punishment traditions, alcohol coercion

Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI)

• Danny Santulli (Missouri, 2021): Permanent brain damage, settlements with 22 defendants
• Multiple Chapters: Alcohol hazing incidents nationwide
• Pattern: “Pledge dad” events with forced drinking

How National Brands Appear Across Texas Campuses

Using our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we track how the same national brands operate across multiple Texas metros and campuses:

Example: Sigma Alpha Epsilon Footprint in Texas

• Dallas-Fort Worth Metro: 8+ SAE-related entities in IRS/Cause IQ data
• Houston Metro: 5+ SAE entities
• Austin Metro: Texas Rho Corporation at UT
• Campus Chapters: UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, SMU, others
• Legal Significance: National’s knowledge of Texas incidents creates statewide duty

Example: Pi Kappa Alpha Texas Network

• IRS Entity 746064445: Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – 1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627
• Cause IQ Listing: Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Houston, TX
• Campus Chapters: UT, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, UH, others
• Legal Significance: Texas-based entities may provide additional insurance coverage

For Tom Bean families, this interconnectedness means an incident at Texas Tech may provide crucial pattern evidence for a case at UNT involving the same national organization. The legal system recognizes that nationals have duty across their entire network.

What National Histories Mean for Your Case

1. Evidence of Prior Notice: We subpoena national headquarters for incident reports, warning letters, and disciplinary records from other chapters showing similar conduct.

2. Pattern Evidence: Multiple incidents across states show this wasn’t an isolated “bad apple” but a systemic failure.

3. Punitive Damages Potential: When nationals ignore clear patterns, courts may award punitive damages to punish recklessness and deter future harm.

4. Insurance Coverage Arguments: Nationals often have larger insurance policies than local chapters, but insurers may try to deny coverage based on exclusions for intentional acts or prior knowledge.

In our UH Pi Kappa Phi case, we’re investigating the national organization’s knowledge of similar physical hazing at other chapters. This pattern evidence strengthens our negligence claims and may support arguments for institutional accountability beyond just the local chapter.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Legal Strategy

For Tom Bean families facing a hazing incident, understanding how a case gets built—from evidence collection through settlement or trial—helps manage expectations and guide early decisions.

Evidence Collection: The Foundation of Every Case

Digital Communications (Most Critical Evidence)

• Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack
• Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook Messenger
• Fraternity-specific apps: Organization communication platforms
• Recovering deleted messages: Digital forensics can often retrieve “deleted” content
• Metadata: Timestamps, participant lists, edit histories

Photos & Videos

• Event footage: Members often film hazing “for fun”
• Injury documentation: Progressive photos showing bruising development
• Location evidence: House interiors, specific rooms, parks or retreat venues
• Social media posts: Even “joking” posts can show knowledge and participation

Internal Organization Documents

• Pledge manuals: “Traditions” lists, member expectations
• Meeting minutes: Discussions of activities, warnings, or cover-ups
• National communications: Emails between chapter and headquarters
• Financial records: Receipts for alcohol, props, or retreat costs

University Records

• Prior conduct files: Previous hazing violations for same organization
• Incident reports: Campus police or conduct office reports
• Clery Act reports: Published crime statistics
• Internal emails: Administrators discussing the organization or incident

Medical & Psychological Records

• Emergency room records: Initial treatment and diagnoses
• Hospitalization records: Inpatient care documentation
• Specialist reports: Follow-up care, surgical notes, therapy records
• Psychological evaluations: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses

Witness Testimony

• Other pledges: Often fearful but may cooperate with protection
• Former members: Those who quit or were expelled
• Roommates/RA’s: Observed changes or heard details
• Medical personnel: Treatment providers who documented statements

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses)

• Medical expenses: Past and future care, including lifelong needs for catastrophic injuries
• Lost income: Wages lost during recovery or by parents caring for injured child
• Educational costs: Tuition for semesters missed, lost scholarships
• Future earning capacity: Reduced lifetime earnings due to permanent disability
• Therapy & counseling: Long-term mental health treatment

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm)

• Physical pain and suffering: From injuries, surgeries, recovery
• Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in activities they loved
• Reputational harm: Social stigma and embarrassment

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families Who Lose a Child)

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of financial support: Future contributions the child would have made
• Loss of companionship and love: Parents’ and siblings’ grief
• Mental anguish: Family members’ emotional suffering

Punitive Damages (When Defendants’ Conduct is Egregious)

• Purpose: Punish reckless or intentional misconduct, deter future harm
• When awarded: Prior warnings ignored, particularly cruel conduct, cover-up attempts
• Texas caps: Generally limited but higher for gross negligence or intentional acts

The Legal Strategy: From Investigation Through Resolution

Phase 1: Immediate Investigation (Days 1-30)

• Evidence preservation letters to organizations and universities
• Digital forensics to recover deleted communications
• Witness interviews before memories fade or coaching occurs
• Public records requests for prior incidents
• Consultation with medical experts to document injuries

Phase 2: Case Development (Months 1-6)

• Subpoenas for national organization records
• Discovery of university internal files
• Expert retention: medical, psychological, economic, Greek life culture
• Demand package preparation detailing liability and damages

Phase 3: Negotiation & Litigation (Months 6-24)

• Settlement negotiations with insurance carriers
• Mediation with all parties
• Litigation preparation if settlements inadequate
• Trial if necessary to secure fair compensation

Phase 4: Resolution & Accountability

• Financial compensation for damages
• Policy changes through settlement agreements
• Public accountability through verdict or publicized settlement
• Closure and validation for families

Insurance Coverage: The Financial Reality

Common Insurance Policies in Hazing Cases:

• National fraternity/sorority liability policies: Often $1-10 million coverage
• University liability insurance: Public universities may have sovereign immunity limitations
• Chapter/house corporation policies: May cover premises liability
• Individual member homeowner’s policies: May provide additional coverage
• Umbrella/excess policies: Additional layers of coverage

Insurance Defense Tactics We Anticipate (And Counter):

• Denial based on intentional acts exclusion: We argue negligent supervision, not just intentional hazing
• Arguments about prior knowledge: We demonstrate nationals knew or should have known risks
• Coverage limit disputes: We identify all available policies across defendants
• Delay tactics: We maintain litigation momentum while preserving evidence

Our firm’s unique advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how insurers value claims, deploy delay tactics, and fight coverage. We use this insider knowledge to anticipate and counter their strategies.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Tom Bean Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

• Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
• Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
• Secretive behavior about organization activities
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Fear of “letting the chapter down” or “getting brothers in trouble”
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
• Financial requests for unexplained “dues” or “fines”

How to Talk to Your Child

1. Choose a private, calm setting
2. Use open questions: “How are things really going with [organization]?”
3. Listen without judgment: They may fear disappointing you
4. Validate their experience: “That sounds really difficult”
5. Emphasize safety over status: “Your wellbeing matters more than any group”
6. Offer unconditional support: “We’ll figure this out together”

If Your Child Is Hurt

1. Get medical attention immediately, even if they resist
2. Document everything:
   • Photos of injuries from multiple angles
   • Screenshots of group chats
   • Notes on what they tell you (date, time, details)
   • Save physical evidence (clothing, objects)
3. Preserve digital evidence:
   • DO NOT let them delete messages
   • Screenshot everything before it disappears
   • Back up to cloud storage
4. Contact an attorney before reporting to preserve legal options

Dealing with the University

• Document all communications: Emails, calls, meetings
• Ask specific questions:
  • “What prior incidents involve this organization?”
  • “What specific steps are you taking?”
  • “How will you protect my child from retaliation?”
• Understand university limitations:
  • Internal discipline ≠ criminal prosecution
  • Confidentiality may protect the organization, not your child
  • Universities often prioritize institutional reputation

When to Contact an Attorney

• Immediately if there are serious injuries or hospitalization
• Within 48 hours for evidence preservation
• Before making formal reports or statements
• If the university seems to be minimizing or covering up
• When you want independent advocacy beyond internal processes

For Students: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

Is This Hazing or Just Tradition?
Ask yourself:

• Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
• Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
• Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
• Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
• Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

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

Your Legal Rights in Texas

• You cannot be punished for calling 911 in a medical emergency (good-faith immunity)
• Consent is not a defense to hazing charges against those who haze you
• You have the right to leave any organization at any time
• You can request no-contact orders if you’re being harassed after reporting
• You can pursue civil compensation even if no criminal charges are filed

How to Exit Safely

1. Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, trusted friend)
2. Send written notice: Email/text to chapter president: “I resign effective immediately”
3. Do NOT attend “one last meeting”—this is often a pressure tactic
4. Document any retaliation (threats, harassment, property damage)
5. Report retaliation to campus police and Dean of Students

Evidence Collection for Students
While it’s happening or immediately after:

1. Screenshots of group chats with timestamps and participant names
2. Voice memos/recordings (Texas is one-party consent—you can record conversations you’re part of)
3. Photos/videos of injuries, locations, objects used
4. Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
5. Witness information: Names/contacts of others who saw what happened

Who to Trust/Report To
On campus:

• Dean of Students Office (formal reporting)
• Campus Police (if crimes occurred)
• Title IX Coordinator (if sexual harassment involved)
• Counseling Center (confidential mental health support)

Off campus:

• Local police (city/county jurisdiction)
• National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous)
• Experienced hazing attorney (confidential consultation)

Be cautious with:

• Fraternity/sorority advisors employed by the organization
• Greek Life offices that may prioritize system protection
• Friends still in the organization (conflicted loyalties)

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your 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 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, then call a lawyer before any confrontation

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

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

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; university process ≠ real accountability

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”

Hazing FAQs for Texas Families

“Can I 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 in personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

“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.

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

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in 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. Our current UH Pi Kappa Phi case involves public filings because the severity warranted public accountability, but we work closely with families to protect privacy where possible.

“What will this cost our family?”
We work on a contingency fee basis for hazing injury cases. This means:

• No upfront costs or hourly fees
• We cover all case expenses initially
• We only get paid if we recover compensation for you
• Our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket
• If we don’t win, you owe us nothing for our fees

“How long will a hazing case take?”
Each case is different. Simple cases might settle in 6-12 months. Complex cases against multiple institutions, like our UH Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit, may take 2-3 years through litigation. We work efficiently while being thorough—rushed cases often mean undervalued settlements.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

When your 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)
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

• Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Deploy delay tactics to pressure families
• Fight coverage using exclusions and technicalities
• Use IMEs (Independent Medical Exams) to minimize injuries
  “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello)

• BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar corporate defendants
• Federal Court Experience: Admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Not Intimidated: We’ve taken on international corporations and won
  “We’ve faced defendants with unlimited legal budgets. National fraternities and universities don’t scare us.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience

• Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
• Economist collaboration for lifetime care valuation
• Experience with brain injury, permanent disability, and lifelong medical needs
  “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability and adequate compensation.”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

• Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
• Understanding how criminal charges interact with civil litigation
• Ability to advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
  “We navigate both tracks so our clients don’t get caught between criminal and civil systems.”

Investigative Depth & Expert Network

• Digital forensics experts: Recovering deleted messages and social media
• Medical specialists: Documenting rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD, and other hazing injuries
• Greek life culture experts: Explaining power dynamics and coercion patterns
• Economists: Valuing lifetime care needs and lost earning capacity
  “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Data-Driven Advocacy

What sets us apart is our systematic approach to hazing litigation. We don’t start from scratch with each case. Our firm maintains a Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine built from:

1. IRS B83 Organizational Database

• 125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations with EINs, legal names, addresses
• House corporations, alumni chapters, honor societies
• Example: EIN 462267515 – Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc, Frisco, TX

2. Texas University Campus Mapping

• 96 Texas campuses with city/county locations
• Greek life presence tracking
• Jurisdictional understanding for each location

3. Cause IQ Metro Organization Tracking

• 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros
• Metro-specific counts: 510 in DFW, 188 in Houston, 154 in Austin
• Organization types: undergraduate chapters, alumni groups, honor societies

4. National Incident Database

• Documented hazing cases by organization nationwide
• Settlement amounts, verdicts, legislative responses
• Pattern evidence for foreseeability arguments

This database means when a Tom Bean family comes to us with a hazing case, we already know:

• The legal entities behind the campus chapter
• Prior incidents involving that national organization
• Insurance carriers likely involved
• Local counsel patterns in that jurisdiction
• University-specific response histories

Our Approach: Empathetic, Thorough, Victim-Centered

We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our approach reflects that understanding:

1. Listen First
We start by hearing your full story without interruption or judgment. You’ve likely been minimized by the organization and maybe the university. We validate your experience.

2. Investigate Thoroughly
We deploy resources immediately: evidence preservation letters, digital forensics, witness interviews, public records requests. We move faster than evidence disappears.

3. Educate Continuously
We explain each step, each legal concept, each strategic decision. You’re part of the team, not just a client.

4. Fight Strategically
We identify all liable parties, all insurance policies, all legal theories. We don’t take shortcuts that undervalue your case.

5. Pursue Accountability Beyond Money
Where possible, we negotiate policy changes, transparency requirements, and prevention measures into settlements. We want to stop this from happening to another family.

Call to Action for Tom Bean Families

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Tom Bean, Grayson County, and throughout North Texas have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation

What to expect in your free consultation:

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

Clear Contact Information

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

Spanish-Language Services:
Hablamos Español – Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish
Servicios legales en español disponibles

Clarifying Expectations (Ethical Compliance)

Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is unique, and we cannot guarantee specific outcomes. An experienced attorney can review your specific facts, explain your rights under Texas law, and help you understand your options.

Whether you’re in Tom Bean or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions involved have lawyers protecting their interests. You deserve the same advocacy.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s discuss how we can help you secure accountability, compensation, and peace of mind.

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:

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

Attorney911 Main Website & Contact:

• Main website: https://attorney911.com

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com