Texas Hazing Lawsuits & Fraternity Abuse: A Comprehensive Guide for Quanah, Texas Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University: What Quanah Parents Need to Know

It starts with a late-night phone call or a text that doesn’t sound right. Your child, away at college at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, or another Texas campus, sounds exhausted, secretive, or scared. Maybe they mention “mandatory” events that keep them up until 3 AM. Maybe they show up home with unexplained bruises or a sudden change in personality. The sinking feeling sets in: this isn’t normal college stress. This could be hazing.

For families in Quanah, Hardeman County, and across the Texas Panhandle, sending a child to college often means hours of separation and relying on universities to provide safe environments. When that trust is broken through fraternity, sorority, Corps of Cadets, athletic team, or spirit group hazing, the consequences can be catastrophic—permanent injuries, lifelong trauma, and in the worst cases, death.

Right now, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history, representing Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter. This case reveals exactly what modern hazing looks like: not “harmless pranks,” but systematic abuse that nearly killed a young student. This is happening at Texas universities right now, and Quanah families need to know the truth.

This comprehensive guide explains what hazing really looks like in 2025, Texas hazing laws, national patterns, what’s happening at major Texas universities, and what legal options Quanah families have when their children are injured or abused in connection with campus organizations.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24-48 hours. Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed evidence, coached witnesses). Universities move quickly to control the narrative. We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

Modern Hazing: Digital, Psychological, and Dangerous

Hazing is no longer just about “hell week” or paddling. In 2025, hazing has evolved into sophisticated systems of control that combine digital surveillance, psychological manipulation, and physical risk. For Quanah families whose children might be hundreds of miles away at Texas universities, understanding these modern tactics is crucial for recognizing danger.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing:

Subtle Hazing – Often dismissed as “tradition” but designed to establish power imbalance:
- 24/7 group chat monitoring with instant response demands
- Forced servitude (“pledge duties” like cleaning, errands, chauffeuring)
- Geographic tracking via Find My Friends or Life360
- Social isolation from non-members
- Mandatory events that interfere with academics and sleep
Harassment Hazing – Causes measurable physical or psychological harm:
- Sleep deprivation through late-night “meetings” or tasks
- Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpalatable substances
- Verbal abuse, yelling, and humiliation sessions
- “Workouts” or “smokings” that push beyond physical limits
- Digital humiliation through forced social media posts or group chat mocking
Violent Hazing – High risk of serious injury or death:
- Forced alcohol consumption (chugging, funneling, drinking games)
- Physical beatings, paddling, or “branding”
- Dangerous physical challenges (“glass ceiling” rituals, blindfolded tasks)
- Sexualized hazing (forced nudity, simulated sexual acts)
- Exposure to extreme temperatures or dangerous environments

The Leonel Bermudez Case: A Real Texas Example

Right now at the University of Houston, our client Leonel Bermudez represents exactly what modern hazing looks like. As detailed in the Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case and ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit, Bermudez’s fall 2025 pledge experience included:

Digital Control: Required to carry a “pledge fanny pack” 24/7 containing condoms, a sex toy, nicotine devices, and humiliating items
1973 1997– Physical Abuse: Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, cold-weather exposure in underwear, lying in vomit-soaked grass
Simulated Torture: Sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding” and threatened with actual waterboarding
Forced Consumption: Made to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, then forced to immediately run sprints
Extreme Workouts: On November 3, 2025, forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion

The result? Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe skeletal muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure. His urine turned brown, he couldn’t stand without help, and he was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels confirming the life-threatening diagnosis. The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter has been shut down, but Bermudez faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.

This is what’s happening at Texas universities right now. Families in Quanah need to understand that this isn’t isolated—it’s part of patterns we see across campuses.

Texas Hazing Law: What Quanah Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Criminal Hazing Law

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws in the Education Code that apply to all educational institutions in the state. For Quanah families, understanding these laws is critical because they govern cases whether your child is at a university near Quanah or hours away in Houston, College Station, or Austin.

Key Provisions of Texas Hazing Law:

Definition (Section 37.151): Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against a student for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or membership that:
- Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student
- This applies on or off campus
Criminal Penalties (Section 37.152):
- Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
- Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing that causes injury requiring medical treatment
- State Jail Felony: Hazing that causes serious bodily injury or death
Consent is NOT a Defense (Section 37.155): Even if your child “agreed” to participate, it’s still hazing under Texas law. Courts recognize that power imbalances and social pressure make true consent impossible in these situations.
Organizational Liability (Section 37.153): Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be criminally prosecuted and fined up to $10,000 per violation if they authorize or encourage hazing or if officers knew about hazing and failed to report it.
Good-Faith Reporting Protection (Section 37.154): Students who report hazing or call for medical help in good faith are immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from their involvement.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Charges

While criminal cases are prosecuted by the state, civil lawsuits allow victims and families to seek compensation and accountability. For Quanah families, civil cases often provide the only path to full recovery and institutional change.

Who Can Be Held Civilly Liable:

Individual Students: Those who planned, participated in, or covered up hazing
Chapter/Organization: The local fraternity, sorority, or club
National Headquarters: Organizations like Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, etc.
Universities: Schools that knew or should have known about hazing risks
Property Owners: Landlords of off-campus houses where hazing occurs
Alcohol Providers: Under Texas dram shop laws when applicable

Federal Laws That Apply

Several federal laws create additional obligations for universities:

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): Requires colleges receiving federal aid to publicly report hazing incidents and strengthen prevention programs (phased in through 2026).

Title IX: When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based discrimination, Title IX requires universities to investigate and respond appropriately.

Clery Act: Requires reporting of certain crimes on campus, including aggravated assault and liquor law violations that often accompany hazing.

National Hazing Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Common Fatal Pattern

For Quanah families, understanding national patterns helps show that what happens at Texas universities isn’t unique—and that these patterns establish clear foreseeability that supports legal claims.

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

Forced to drink nearly a full bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
$10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Individual chapter president ordered to pay $6.5 million personally
Takeaway for Texas families: National fraternities have paid massive settlements for forced drinking rituals

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):

Forced to participate in “Bible study” drinking game (wrong answers = drink)
Died with 0.495% BAC (six times legal limit)
Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony
$6.1 million verdict against fraternity members
Takeaway for Texas families: Drinking games kill, and juries award substantial damages

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017):

Pledge given handle of liquor during “Big Brother Night”
Died from acute alcohol poisoning
FSU suspended all Greek life temporarily
Takeaway for Texas families: The same national fraternity involved in the UH case (Pi Kappa Phi) has fatal hazing history

Physical and Ritualized Hazing Patterns

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

Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
Died from traumatic brain injuries
National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
Pi Delta Psi banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Takeaway for Texas families: National organizations face criminal liability for hazing rituals

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

Forced to drink excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”
Suffered severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
Family settled with 22 defendants for multi-million dollar amounts
Takeaway for Texas families: Non-fatal hazing can cause lifelong catastrophic injuries requiring 24/7 care

Athletic and Spirit Group Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025):

Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Takeaway for Texas families: Hazing extends beyond Greek life into athletic programs

What These National Cases Mean for Quanah Families

Patterns Establish Foreseeability: When national fraternities have history of alcohol deaths, they can’t claim “we didn’t know” when similar incidents happen at Texas chapters.
Substantial Financial Recovery is Possible: Settlements and verdicts in the $1-14 million range show what serious cases are worth.
Both Criminal and Civil Actions Matter: Criminal convictions can support civil claims, but civil cases can proceed even without criminal charges.
Institutional Accountability is Achievable: Universities and national headquarters have been forced to change policies and pay substantial damages.

Texas Universities: What’s Happening at Major Campuses

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: Hard Data for Quanah Families

Based on our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—compiled from IRS records, university data, and public filings—here’s what Quanah families need to know about the Greek organizations operating at Texas universities:

Texas-Wide Snapshot:

1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metros
125+ Texas-registered organizations in IRS B83 filings (fraternities, sororities, house corporations)
510 organizations in Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro
188 organizations in Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro
154 organizations in Austin-Round Rock metro

Where Quanah Families Send Their Kids:

While Quanah students attend universities across Texas and beyond, these are the primary Texas institutions with significant Greek life:

Near West Texas Options:

West Texas A&M University (Canyon)
Texas Tech University (Lubbock)
Midwestern State University (Wichita Falls)

Major Statewide Hubs Where Quanah Students Attend:

University of Houston
Texas A&M University
University of Texas at Austin
Southern Methodist University
Baylor University

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

To show the concrete reality behind Greek life, here are actual organizations recorded in public filings that operate in Texas:

University of Houston Area Organizations:

Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter, EIN 746084905, Houston, TX 77204 (IRS B83 filing)
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – Theta Delta, EIN 475370943, Houston, TX 77204 (IRS B83 filing)
Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc, EIN 462267515, Frisco, TX 75035 (IRS B83 filing)
Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, Houston, TX (Cause IQ metro listing)

Texas A&M University Area Organizations:

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc, EIN 133048786, College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 filing)
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – Theta Rho, EIN 812525354, College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 filing)
Sigma Chi Fraternity – Eta Upsilon Chapter, College Station, TX (Cause IQ metro listing)

University of Texas at Austin Area Organizations:

Chi Omega Fraternity House Corporation, EIN 740555581, Austin, TX 78705 (IRS B83 filing)
Building Corporation of Delta Chapter of Alpha Delta Pi, EIN 746047117, Austin, TX 78705 (IRS B83 filing)
Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity – Texas Rho Corp., Austin, TX (Cause IQ metro listing)

Cross-Validated Brands (Appearing in Multiple Data Sources):

Beta Upsilon Chi: IRS EIN 742911848, Fort Worth, TX 76244 AND Cause IQ listing in Dallas-Fort Worth metro
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation: IRS EIN 741380362, Fort Worth, TX 76147 AND Cause IQ listing in Dallas-Fort Worth metro
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority: Multiple IRS EINs in Waco, Commerce, Austin AND Cause IQ listings in Houston, Beaumont metros

This public records data matters because it shows the actual legal entities—with EINs, addresses, and documented existence—that can be held accountable in hazing cases. When your child is hazed, we don’t start from zero. We already know how to find the organizations behind the letters.

University of Houston: Current Crisis and Historical Patterns

For Quanah families with students at UH, the current Pi Kappa Phi case isn’t an isolated incident. UH has faced multiple hazing challenges:

Recent History:

2016 Pi Kappa Alpha Case: Pledge suffered lacerated spleen after physical hazing; chapter faced misdemeanor charges and suspension
Multiple alcohol-related incidents leading to probation for various chapters
2025 Pi Kappa Phi Case: Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure case currently in litigation

UH’s Response System:

Hazing prohibited on and off campus
Reporting through Dean of Students Office, UHPD, online forms
Public hazing statement published online
Chapter suspensions used as primary disciplinary tool

What Quanah Families Should Know About UH Cases:

Cases may involve UHPD, Houston Police Department, or both
Civil suits typically filed in Harris County courts
UH as a public university has some sovereign immunity claims, but exceptions exist
Evidence preservation is critical—group chats and social media evidence disappear quickly

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life Challenges

For Quanah families with Aggie ties, understanding both Greek life and Corps of Cadets risks is essential:

Corps of Cadets Hazing Issues:

2023 Lawsuit: Cadet alleged “roasted pig” hazing—bound between beds with apple in mouth, simulated sexual acts
Sought over $1 million in damages
Texas A&M stated matter handled under internal rules
Pattern concerns about tradition-based abuse in military-style programs

Greek Life Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, spit causing severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts
Chapter suspended, lawsuit sought $1 million
Multiple alcohol-related hazing incidents across various fraternities

What Quanah Families Should Know About Texas A&M Cases:

Corps cases involve unique military-style hierarchy and tradition defenses
University often argues “internal discipline” suffices
Brazos County courts typically handle local cases
Evidence includes both digital communications and physical tradition materials

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Repeated Violations

UT Austin leads Texas in public hazing transparency, maintaining a public hazing violations log—a powerful resource for families.

Documented Violations (From UT’s Public Log):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter probation and mandatory education
Texas Wranglers (Multiple Years): Forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, probation periods
Various fraternities and sororities: Alcohol violations, physical hazing, probation sanctions

Key UT Austin Resources for Families:

Public hazing violations website: hazing.utexas.edu
UTPD jurisdiction on campus matters
Austin Police Department for off-campus incidents
Travis County courts for civil litigation

What Quanah Families Should Know About UT Cases:

Prior violations on public log establish pattern evidence for lawsuits
UT’s transparency doesn’t prevent hazing, but helps prove institutional knowledge
Austin’s municipal court and Travis County district courts handle cases
Digital evidence preservation is especially critical given tech-savvy student population

Southern Methodist University: Private University Dynamics

As a private university, SMU operates under different rules than public institutions:

Recent History:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation; chapter suspended until 2021
Multiple unreported incidents likely exist (private schools have less transparency)
Strong Greek culture with significant social pressure

SMU’s Response Systems:

Anonymous reporting through Real Response system
Conduct investigations typically confidential
Limited public disclosure due to private status

What Quanah Families Should Know About SMU Cases:

Less public information available, making investigation more critical
Civil discovery often necessary to uncover internal reports
Dallas County courts typically handle litigation
Insurance coverage battles common with private institution defendants

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Athletics Context

Baylor’s history with institutional scandals creates unique dynamics for hazing cases:

Recent Incidents:

Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation
Football program history with sexual assault scandal affects institutional response patterns
Religious identity influences internal handling of misconduct

Baylor’s Response Pattern:

“Zero tolerance” public statements
Internal investigations often confidential
Athletics department sometimes handles separately from general student conduct

What Quanah Families Should Know About Baylor Cases:

McLennan County courts handle local litigation
Religious identity may affect juror perceptions
Institutional reputation management heavily influences response
Athletics department cases involve additional NCAA considerations

Fraternity & Sorority National Histories: Why Patterns Matter

How National Histories Create Liability

When a Texas chapter repeats behavior that got chapters in other states shut down or sued, that establishes foreseeability—a critical legal concept meaning the national organization knew or should have known the risks.

Pi Kappa Alpha National Pattern:

Stone Foltz (BGSU, 2021): Forced drinking death, $10M settlement
David Bogenberger (NIU, 2012): Alcohol poisoning death, $14M settlement
Multiple chapters suspended or closed for alcohol hazing nationwide
Legal implication for Texas families: When a Pike chapter at UT or Texas A&M forces drinking, national headquarters can’t claim “we didn’t know this could happen”

Sigma Alpha Epsilon National Pattern:

Traumatic brain injury lawsuit at University of Alabama (2023)
Chemical burns lawsuit at Texas A&M (2021)
Assault lawsuit at UT Austin (2024)
Multiple alcohol-related deaths nationwide pre-2014
Legal implication for Texas families: SAE’s national pattern of physical hazing supports negligence claims when Texas chapters repeat similar conduct

Pi Kappa Phi National Pattern:

Andrew Coffey (FSU, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death
Leonel Bermudez (UH, 2025): Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
Legal implication for Texas families: National Pi Kappa Phi had prior fatal hazing incident before UH case, strengthening negligence claims

The Legal Strategy: Using Pattern Evidence

In hazing litigation, we systematically document:

Same Organization, Same Conduct: Showing that what happened to your child at a Texas university is virtually identical to what happened at other chapters
National Knowledge: Proving national headquarters received reports, conducted investigations, or issued warnings about similar conduct
Inadequate Response: Demonstrating that national’s “solutions” (policy manuals, online training) didn’t actually prevent recurrences
Foreseeability: Establishing that injuries like alcohol poisoning, physical trauma, or psychological harm were predictable based on prior incidents

For Quanah families, this means your child’s case isn’t viewed in isolation. It’s part of a documented national pattern that increases liability for national organizations.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy

Critical Evidence That Wins Cases

For Quanah families hours away from where hazing occurred, evidence preservation must begin immediately:

Digital Evidence (MOST IMPORTANT):

Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, fraternity apps
Social Media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook messages
Deleted Recovery: Digital forensics can recover deleted messages—don’t assume deletion means gone forever
Metadata: Timestamps, location data, participant lists

Watch our video on using your phone to document evidence at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs for best practices on preserving digital evidence.

Physical Evidence:

Injuries: Photograph immediately, then daily to show progression
Objects: Paddles, alcohol bottles, costumes, props
Clothing: Don’t wash—preserve stains, tears, evidence
Medical Records: ER reports, lab results, imaging

Institutional Records:

University Files: Prior complaints, disciplinary records, investigation reports
National Fraternity Records: Incident reports, risk management files, communications
Insurance Policies: Coverage documents for chapters, nationals, universities

Witness Evidence:

Other Pledges: Often afraid but may cooperate as case develops
Former Members: Those who quit or were expelled often provide crucial testimony
Roommates/RA’s: Corroborate behavior changes, injuries, odd hours
Medical Providers: Document causation between hazing and injuries

Damages: What Quanah Families Can Recover

Hazing cases involve multiple categories of damages:

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses):

Medical Expenses: ER care, hospitalization, surgery, ongoing treatment, future care needs
Lost Income/Wages: Time off work for recovery (student or parent)
Educational Impact: Tuition for interrupted semesters, lost scholarships, delayed graduation
Future Earning Capacity: Reduced lifetime earnings for permanent disabilities

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Compensable):

Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries, medical procedures, ongoing pain
Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation, trauma
Loss of Enjoyment: Can’t participate in activities, sports, social life
Reputational Harm: Social stigma, difficulty transferring schools

Wrongful Death Damages (When Applicable):

Funeral/Burial Costs
Loss of Financial Support: Future earnings deceased would have provided
Loss of Companionship: For parents, siblings, spouse
Emotional Suffering: Grief, trauma of loss

Punitive Damages (When Defendants’ Conduct is Especially Bad):

Purpose: Punish reckless/willful conduct and deter future hazing
When Awarded: Prior warnings ignored, particularly cruel conduct, cover-up attempts, callous indifference
Texas Caps: Generally limited but can be substantial in intentional conduct cases

Our Investigative Process for Quanah Families

When Quanah families come to us, we immediately deploy our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine and investigation methodology:

Phase 1: Emergency Evidence Preservation (First 48 Hours)

Secure digital evidence before deletion
Document injuries and statements
Identify all potential defendants
Send preservation letters to universities and organizations

Phase 2: Institutional Investigation

Public records requests for university disciplinary files
Identify prior incidents involving same organization
Map organizational structure (chapter, housing corp, national, alumni)
Review insurance coverage possibilities

Phase 3: Expert Development

Medical experts to document injuries and future needs
Economic experts to calculate damages
Greek life culture experts to explain power dynamics
Digital forensics experts to recover deleted evidence

Phase 4: Strategic Litigation

Determine optimal venue (county, federal, multidistrict)
Develop legal theories (negligence, premises liability, Title IX, etc.)
Negotiate with insurance companies or prepare for trial
Pursue all available defendants for maximum recovery

Practical Guides & FAQs for Quanah Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Quanah Student May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight changes (from forced consumption or stress)
Signs of alcohol poisoning or substance use (even if not typical for your child)
Sleep deprivation patterns (constantly tired, up at odd hours)

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

New secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
Withdrawal from family, hometown friends, or non-group activities
Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability, anger
Defensiveness when asked about the organization
Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
Constant phone checking for group chat demands

Academic Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or assignments due to “mandatory” events
Losing scholarships or academic standing

Digital/Social Behavior:

24/7 group chat monitoring with instant response expectations
Anxiety when phone buzzes
Deleting messages or browser history obsessively
Social media posts showing concerning or humiliating activities
New location-sharing apps demanded by the organization

How to Talk to Your Child (Non-Confrontationally):

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

If You Suspect Hazing – Immediate Steps:

Safety First: If in danger, call 911 or campus police
Medical Care: Get professional evaluation even if injuries seem minor
Document Everything: Write down dates, times, details while fresh
Preserve Evidence: Screenshot texts, photograph injuries, save objects
Report Strategically: Consult attorney before reporting to university
Legal Consultation: Contact experienced hazing attorney immediately

For Students: Recognizing Hazing and Protecting Yourself

Is This Hazing? Simple Self-Check:

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

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

How to Exit Safely:

Immediate Danger: Call 911, get to safe location
Quitting/De-pledging: Tell someone outside organization first, then email/text chapter leadership
Avoid “One Last Meeting”: Don’t go where pressure or retaliation might occur
Document Retaliation: Save any threats, report to university and police

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

You cannot be punished for calling 911 in medical emergencies (good-faith immunity)
Hazing is a crime—you’re the victim, not perpetrator
You can sue civilly even without criminal charges
Consent is NOT a defense in Texas hazing law

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

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

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

MISTAKE 2: Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

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

MISTAKE 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 case value
Instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

MISTAKE 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
Instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

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

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

MISTAKE 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
Instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately; university process ≠ real accountability

MISTAKE 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
Instead: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

Watch our video on client mistakes that can ruin your case at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY for more critical guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions for Quanah Families

Q: Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?
A: Yes, under specific 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 barriers. Every case is fact-specific.

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

Q: What if my child “agreed” to the initiation?
A: Consent is NOT a defense to hazing in Texas (Education Code §37.155). Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

Q: How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?
A: Generally 2 years from date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if harm or cause wasn’t immediately known. In cover-up cases, statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, organizations destroy records. Learn more in our video on statutes of limitations at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

Q: What if hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?
A: Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major cases occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

Q: Will my child’s name be in the news?
A: 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.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a hazing lawyer?
A: We work on contingency fee basis for personal injury hazing cases—you pay nothing unless we win. Watch our video explaining how contingency fees work at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

About The Manginello Law Firm / Attorney911: Why We’re Different

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

When your Quanah family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway.

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña):

Former insurance defense attorney at 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.”
Learn more about Mr. Peña’s background at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello):

One of few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation
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 billion-dollar corporations and won.”
Learn more about Ralph’s credentials at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience:

Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
Economist collaboration for lifetime care needs (brain injury, permanent disability)
“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 criminal hazing charges and how they interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure

Investigative Depth and Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine:

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

Current Major Texas Hazing Case: Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi

We’re currently leading one of Texas’s most significant hazing cases, representing Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi. This isn’t theoretical—we’re in the fight right now. The details matter:

Defendants Include:

University of Houston
UH System Board of Regents
Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu housing corporation
13 individual fraternity leaders/members (chapter president, pledgemaster, risk manager, etc.)

Medical Catastrophe:

Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown)
Acute kidney failure
Four-day hospitalization with critically high creatine kinase levels
Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage

Institutional Response:

November 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspends Beta Nu chapter
November 14, 2025: Chapter members vote to surrender charter; chapter shut down
UH labels conduct “deeply disturbing,” promises disciplinary measures and cooperation with law enforcement

This case proves we’re not just talking about hazing litigation—we’re doing it, right now, against major Texas institutions. Read the full media coverage:

Serving Quanah and Hardeman County Families

While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Quanah, Hardeman County, and the entire Panhandle region. Distance doesn’t matter when your child’s safety and future are at stake.

For Quanah Families:

We understand the unique dynamics of Texas universities where your children attend
We know how to navigate Texas hazing laws that protect your family
We have the resources to investigate cases anywhere in Texas
We provide Spanish-language services through Mr. Peña (Se habla Español)

Our Promise to Quanah Families:

Immediate response when you call
Thorough investigation using our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine
Aggressive pursuit of all responsible parties
Maximum compensation for your child’s injuries
Privacy protection throughout the process
Contingency fee basis—no fee unless we win

Call to Action for Quanah Families

If Hazing Has Impacted Your Family

Whether you’re in Quanah, Childress, Vernon, or anywhere in the Texas Panhandle, if hazing has affected your child at any Texas university, we want to hear from you. The distance between Quanah and major university campuses doesn’t matter—Texas hazing laws protect your child regardless of where the abuse occurred.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

We Listen Without Judgment: Tell us your story in complete confidence
Evidence Review: We’ll review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
Legal Options Explained: We’ll explain all available options: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Realistic Expectations: We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
Cost Discussion: We explain our contingency fee—you pay nothing unless we win
No Pressure: Take time to decide; we never pressure immediate hiring
Complete Confidentiality: Everything you tell us is protected

Contact Information:

Call Attorney911 Today:

24/7 Emergency Line: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct Office: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781

Online:

Website: https://attorney911.com
Contact Page: https://attorney911.com/contact/

Email:

Ralph Manginello: ralph@atty911.com
Lupe Peña: lupe@atty911.com

Spanish Services:

Hablamos Español – Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish
Servicios legales en español disponibles para familias hispanas

Serving All of Texas from Quanah to Houston

From our Texas offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families across the state, including Quanah, Hardeman County, and the entire Panhandle region. Whether your child attends West Texas A&M in Canyon, Texas Tech in Lubbock, or universities hours away in Houston, Austin, or College Station, Texas hazing law protects them, and we know how to enforce those protections.

Don’t let distance or institutional power intimidate you. If hazing has hurt your child, you have rights. We know how to protect those rights and hold powerful organizations accountable.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today. Let us help your family find answers, accountability, and justice.

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

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

Plain Text Links to Key Resources:

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Using phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas statutes of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes that ruin cases: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Website:

Main site: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal defense: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
Ralph Manginello profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Lupe Peña profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/