The Complete Guide to Hazing, Texas Law, and University Accountability for Piney Point Village Families

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

Picture this: A University of Houston student from an affluent Houston family accepts what seems like a prestigious bid to join a prominent national fraternity. What begins with camaraderie and tradition quickly turns sinister. He is handed a “pledge fanny pack” he must wear 24/7, filled with condoms, a sex toy, and humiliating items. Failure to comply means punishment or expulsion. His weeks become a blur of forced late-night driving duties, sleep deprivation, and ritual humiliation at locations across Houston—the fraternity house on campus, a Culmore Drive residence, and pre-dawn workouts at Yellowstone Boulevard Park.

The physical abuse escalates: sprints, bear crawls, lying in vomit-soaked grass, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding.” During one November “workout,” he’s forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion. Days later, he cannot stand without help. His urine turns brown. Rushed to the emergency room, he’s diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis—severe skeletal muscle breakdown—and acute kidney failure. He spends four days hospitalized, with critically elevated creatine kinase levels confirming life-threatening organ damage. The fraternity chapter is suspended, then votes to surrender its charter. The university calls the conduct “deeply disturbing.”

This is not a hypothetical. This is the real case of Leonel Bermudez, a UH student represented by our firm in a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit filed in Harris County in late 2025 against the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters, the Beta Nu housing corporation, the UH System Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity leaders. Click2Houston and ABC13 have documented every disturbing detail.

If you are a parent in Piney Point Village, Memorial, or any affluent Houston community, this nightmare scenario hits close to home. Your child may attend UH, Rice, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any Texas campus where Greek life and tradition carry both social prestige and hidden dangers. This comprehensive guide exists for you—to explain what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law applies, what we’ve learned from national tragedies, and what legal options exist when institutions fail to protect students.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like in Texas

Beyond Stereotypes: The Modern Reality

For Piney Point Village families, understanding hazing requires looking beyond “boys will be boys” stereotypes. Modern hazing is a calculated system of coercion that leverages technology, psychology, and institutional loopholes. It’s defined legally in Texas as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers mental or physical health for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in a student organization.

The Four Categories Every Parent Must Recognize

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing (The Most Deadly)

Forced “lineup” drinking games where pledges must consume alcohol rapidly
“Big/Little” nights where new members are given handles of liquor to finish
Trivia or “Bible study” games where wrong answers mean forced drinking
Coerced consumption of unknown substances or dangerous mixtures
Texas reality: This pattern killed Stone Foltz at Bowling Green (Pi Kappa Alpha), Max Gruver at LSU (Phi Delta Theta), and nearly killed Leonel Bermudez at UH

2. Physical and “Wellness-Disguised” Hazing

Extreme calisthenics (“smokings”) framed as “fitness challenges”
Paddling, beatings, or forced fights disguised as “tradition”
Sleep deprivation through mandatory late-night meetings
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of disgusting substances
Exposure to extreme temperatures or dangerous environments
Texas reality: The UH Pi Kappa Phi case involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed immediately by sprints

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

Forced nudity or partial nudity for “initiation”
Simulated sexual acts (“elephant walk,” “roasted pig” positions)
Degrading costumes or role-playing with racial/sexist overtones
Public shaming in meetings or on social media
Texas reality: At Texas A&M, a Corps of Cadets member alleged being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth

4. Digital and Psychological Coercion

24/7 GroupMe monitoring with instant response demands
Geo-tracking via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
Social media humiliation through forced TikTok challenges
Psychological manipulation through isolation and threats
Texas reality: Most Houston-area fraternities now operate through encrypted apps, with evidence disappearing in seconds

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural councils)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC at Texas A&M and other military-style programs
Athletic Teams from football to cheerleading
Spirit and Tradition Groups like Texas Cowboys, Silver Spurs
Marching Bands and Performance Groups
Academic and Service Organizations

For Piney Point Village families, the proximity to Houston’s major universities means your student could encounter hazing in multiple contexts. The common thread is power imbalance, tradition justification, and institutional blindness.

Texas Law & Liability Framework: What Piney Point Village Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Legal Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing statutes that apply whether your child attends UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, or any Texas campus. Understanding these laws is critical for holding organizations accountable.

§ 37.151: The Hazing Definition
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers mental or physical health or safety, AND
Occurs for pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership

Key implications for Houston families:

Location doesn’t matter (on-campus, off-campus house, Airbnb retreat)
Mental harm counts as seriously as physical harm
“Reckless” behavior qualifies—intent to harm isn’t required
Consent is NOT a defense (Texas Education Code § 37.155)

§ 37.152: Criminal Penalties

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing without serious injury (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 charges for failing to report hazing or retaliating against reporters

§ 37.153: Organizational Liability
Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can face:

Criminal prosecution if they authorized or encouraged hazing
Fines up to $10,000 per violation
University recognition revocation and campus bans

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding Both Tracks

Criminal Cases (State vs. Individuals/Organizations)

Brought by Harris County District Attorney or local prosecutors
Focus: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatalities
Reality: Criminal convictions are rare but possible (see Pi Delta Psi convictions in Pennsylvania)

Civil Cases (Your Family vs. Responsible Parties)

Brought by victims or surviving families
Focus: Compensation and accountability
Claims: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
Critical: You can pursue civil justice even WITHOUT criminal charges

Federal Laws That Overlay Texas Cases

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
Mandates public hazing data by approximately 2026
Strengthens prevention education requirements
Impact: More transparency about which organizations have violations

Title IX and Clery Act Implications

When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger
Clery Act requires reporting of certain crimes that often overlap with hazing
For Piney Point Village families: These federal laws can provide additional leverage against universities

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Lawsuit?

1. Individual Students

Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
Chapter presidents, pledge educators, risk managers
UH Pi Kappa Phi example: 13 individual members named in Bermudez lawsuit

2. Local Chapter / Organization

The fraternity/sorority as a legal entity
Housing corporations that own properties where hazing occurs
IRS B83 Records in Texas: 125+ registered Greek organizations with EINs and addresses

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters

Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
Liability hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents
Pattern evidence: National histories of similar hazing at other chapters

4. University or Governing Board

Schools that failed to enforce policies or responded with “deliberate indifference”
Potentially liable under negligence or civil rights theories
Sovereign immunity considerations: Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have protections but exceptions exist

5. Third Parties

Landlords of off-campus houses where hazing occurs
Bars or alcohol providers under Texas dram shop law
Security companies or event organizers

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Can Learn

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Repeating Script

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

20-year-old pledge forced to consume entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
$10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Texas relevance: Pi Kappa Alpha has chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Pledge forced to participate in “Bible study” drinking game
Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
$6.1 million verdict against fraternity members
Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
Texas relevance: Phi Delta Theta has Texas chapters with similar traditions

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

Pledge died from acute alcohol poisoning during “Big Brother Night”
FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
Texas relevance: Same national organization as UH’s suspended Beta Nu chapter

Physical and Ritualized Hazing: Beyond Alcohol

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

Pledge blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
Died from traumatic brain injury; help delayed
National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
Pi Delta Psi banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Texas relevance: Shows off-campus retreats don’t eliminate liability

Athletic Program Hazing: Not Just Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within program
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Texas relevance: Major athletic programs at UT, Texas A&M, Baylor face similar risks

What These Cases Mean for Piney Point Village Families

Patterns repeat—the same scripts (Big/Little nights, forced drinking games, physical “traditions”) recur nationally
Cover-ups worsen outcomes—delayed medical care turns injuries into deaths
Institutions react after tragedy—real reform often follows litigation, not prevention
Multi-million dollar accountability is possible—families can achieve justice while forcing systemic change

Texas University Focus: Where Piney Point Village Students Attend

University of Houston: Houston’s Home Campus Crisis

For Piney Point Village families, UH represents both proximity and prestige. Many Memorial-area students choose UH for its rising academic profile and convenient location. The recent Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates that serious hazing happens right in our community.

Campus Culture and Greek Landscape

40+ fraternity and sorority chapters across four governing councils
Active NPHC (Divine Nine) presence alongside IFC and Panhellenic groups
Urban campus with significant off-campus housing and social scenes
Proximity to Piney Point Village: 15-minute drive, making it a common choice for local families

Official Hazing Policy and Reporting

UH prohibits hazing both on and off campus
Reporting channels: Dean of Students Office, UHPD, online reporting forms
Critical gap: Limited public transparency about prior violations compared to UT Austin

Documented Incidents and Institutional Response

2025 Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Case: Chapter suspended November 6, 2025 after hazing reports; members voted to surrender charter November 14, 2025; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised cooperation with law enforcement
2016 Pi Kappa Alpha Incident: Pledges allegedly deprived of food, water, and sleep; one suffered lacerated spleen; chapter faced misdemeanor charges and suspension
Ongoing pattern: Alcohol violations, physical misconduct, and policy violations regularly trigger probation or suspension

How a UH Hazing Case Proceeds

Jurisdiction: Harris County courts, with potential federal claims
Investigating agencies: UH Police Department and/or Houston Police Department
Evidence sources: Group chats (GroupMe dominant), security footage from campus and nearby properties, medical records from Texas Medical Center hospitals
Strategic consideration: UH’s status as a public university affects sovereign immunity arguments

What UH Students and Piney Point Village Parents Should Do

Report immediately to both UHPD and HPD if crimes occurred
Request prior conduct files for the organization through public records requests
Document communication with UH administrators about the incident
Seek medical care at reputable facilities (Methodist, Memorial Hermann) with experience documenting hazing injuries
Consult Houston-based hazing attorneys who understand local courts and procedures

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

For Piney Point Village families considering Texas A&M, understanding both Greek life and Corps traditions is essential. Many affluent Houston families send students to A&M for its tradition, network, and prestige.

Corps of Cadets Hazing Reality

2023 Lawsuit: Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth
Sought over $1 million in damages
Texas A&M stated it handled matter under its rules
Pattern: Physical endurance tests, sleep deprivation, humiliation disguised as “discipline”

Greek Life Incidents

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
Lawsuit sought $1 million; fraternity suspended for two years
Ongoing issues: Alcohol hazing, physical abuse, cover-up culture

University Response Framework

Student Conduct Office investigates hazing allegations
Corps has separate disciplinary system with military-style proceedings
Transparency challenge: Less public reporting than UT Austin

Strategic Considerations for A&M Cases

Dual systems: Greek life and Corps operate under different rules
Geographic jurisdiction: Brazos County courts, potential federal claims
Evidence preservation: Corps traditions often rely on oral, not written, “traditions”

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Repeated Violations

UT Austin’s public hazing violations page provides unprecedented transparency that benefits families investigating incidents.

Documented Violations (Recent Examples)

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation with hazing prevention education required
Texas Wranglers (multiple years): Spirit organization sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing
Various fraternities: Probation for alcohol violations, physical misconduct, endangerment

University Reporting and Response

Public hazing violations website lists organizations, dates, conduct, sanctions
UTPD and Austin PD jurisdiction depends on location
Strategic advantage: Prior violations establish pattern evidence for civil cases

What UT Austin Transparency Means for Families

Research before joining: Check an organization’s violation history
Leverage in litigation: Prior incidents show foreseeability and negligent supervision
Accountability pressure: Public scrutiny encourages stronger enforcement

Southern Methodist University: Private School Challenges

SMU’s affluent student body and strong Greek presence create unique dynamics for Dallas-area families, including those from Piney Point Village with SMU connections.

Documented Incidents

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, deprived of sleep; chapter suspended with recruitment restrictions until approximately 2021
Ongoing issues: Alcohol hazing, social coercion, off-campus events

Private University Considerations

Less public transparency than state schools
Different liability standards (no sovereign immunity)
Administrative challenges: Balancing donor relationships with student safety

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Accountability History

Baylor’s recent history with institutional accountability affects how hazing cases are handled.

Documented Incidents

Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Greek life issues: Alcohol violations, physical misconduct investigations
Institutional context: Ongoing reforms following sexual assault scandal

Strategic Considerations

Religious branding affects public relations response
Private university status affects liability analysis
Waco jurisdiction with McLennan County courts

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories That Matter in Texas

Why National Patterns Create Liability

When a Texas chapter repeats hazing methods that caused deaths or injuries at other campuses, that pattern establishes foreseeability—the national organization knew or should have known the risks. This strengthens negligence claims and can support punitive damages.

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (“Pike”)

Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green (2021): $10 million settlement
David Bogenberger death at Northern Illinois (2012): $14 million settlement
Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing, forced consumption traditions

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

Multiple fatalities nationally leading to 2014 elimination of pledging process
University of Alabama TBI lawsuit (2023): traumatic brain injury from hazing
Texas A&M chemical burns case (2021): $1 million lawsuit
UT Austin assault case (2024): exchange student with multiple fractures
Texas chapters: All major campuses with repeated violations

Pi Kappa Phi

Andrew Coffey death at Florida State (2017)
UH Beta Nu case (2025): rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
Pattern: Physical endurance hazing combined with alcohol coercion

Phi Delta Theta

Max Gruver death at LSU (2017): $6.1 million verdict
Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act enacted after case
Pattern: “Bible study” drinking games, forced consumption

Kappa Alpha Order

SMU suspension (2017) for paddling and alcohol hazing
Multiple chapter sanctions nationally for physical abuse
Pattern: Tradition-based physical hazing

How National Histories Strengthen Texas Cases

Establish foreseeability: Nationals knew these methods could cause injury/death
Show policy failures: Anti-hazing manuals were ineffective against known patterns
Support punitive damages: Repeated warnings ignored
Affect insurance coverage: Prior incidents trigger different policy considerations

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery

Modern Evidence Collection: Digital Forensics Matter Most

For Piney Point Village families, understanding what evidence matters can make or break a case. Today’s hazing leaves digital trails that skilled attorneys can reconstruct.

Group Chat and Messaging Evidence

Platforms: GroupMe (most common), WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, fraternity-specific apps
Critical content: Planning discussions, instructions to pledges, photos/videos of hazing, cover-up discussions
Preservation method: Screenshot immediately before deletion; digital forensics can often recover deleted messages
Our video on evidence preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

Social Media and Photo Evidence

Instagram Stories, Snapchat, TikTok showing hazing events
Location tags and timestamps establishing where/when
Replies and reactions showing participant knowledge
Strategic insight: Even “joking” captions can establish hazing context

Medical Documentation

ER records specifically noting “hazing” or “forced consumption”
Lab results (blood alcohol, creatine kinase for rhabdomyolysis, kidney function)
Psychological evaluations diagnosing PTSD, depression, anxiety
Medical-legal connection: Documentation timing affects credibility

Organizational Records

Chapter minutes, pledge manuals, ritual books
National fraternity risk management files
University conduct records showing prior violations
Discovery power: Subpoenas can uncover hidden documents

Witness Testimony

Other pledges who experienced same hazing
Former members who quit over abuse
Roommates, significant others who observed changes
Protection strategies: Anonymity requests, non-retaliation agreements

Damages: What Families Can Recover in Texas

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

Medical expenses: ER care, hospitalization, surgery, ongoing treatment, future care needs
Lost educational opportunity: Tuition for interrupted semesters, lost scholarships
Diminished earning capacity: Lifetime impact of permanent injuries
Example: Severe brain injury cases may require millions in lifelong care

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm)

Physical pain and suffering from injuries
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in college experience or activities
Reputational harm: Social stigma, digital footprint issues

Wrongful Death Damages (When Tragedy Strikes)

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of companionship and support for parents and siblings
Emotional suffering of family members
Parents’ mental health treatment for traumatic loss

Punitive Damages (When Conduct Warrants Punishment)

Available for especially reckless, willful, or malicious conduct
Requires showing prior warnings ignored or cover-up attempts
Texas caps: Generally limited but exceptions exist for gross negligence

Insurance Coverage Battles: The Hidden Front

Fraternity and university insurance companies employ sophisticated strategies to minimize payouts. Our insider knowledge from Mr. Lupe Peña’s defense background gives Piney Point Village families a critical advantage.

Common Insurance Defenses We Counter

“Intentional act” exclusion arguments
“Criminal conduct” coverage denials
Policy limit manipulations
Delay tactics to pressure families

Our Insurance Litigation Strategy

Identify all potential policies (national, local, university, homeowners)
Navigate coverage disputes with precedent-based arguments
Pursue bad faith claims when insurers wrongfully deny coverage
Use mediation and settlement conferences strategically

Practical Guides & FAQs for Piney Point Village Families

For Parents: Warning Signs and Response Strategies

Red Flags Your Child May Be Hazed

Physical signs: Unexplained bruises, burns, injuries; extreme fatigue; weight changes; sleep deprivation
Behavioral changes: Sudden secrecy about activities; withdrawal from family/friends; personality shifts (anxiety, depression)
Academic decline: Grades dropping; missing classes; losing scholarships
Digital behavior: Constant phone monitoring; anxiety about messages; deleted conversations
Financial irregularities: Unexpected large expenses; maxed credit cards; vague explanations for spending

How to Talk to Your Child (Without Confrontation)

“How are things going with [organization]? Are they respecting your time for studies and sleep?”
“What kinds of activities do they ask new members to do?”
“Is there anything that’s made 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 could leave if you wanted to, or would there be consequences?”

48-Hour Action Plan for Parents

Hour 1-6: Medical attention if needed; safety first; initial evidence preservation
Hour 6-24: Comprehensive evidence collection; medical records request; witness list creation
Hour 24-48: Attorney consultation; reporting decisions; communication strategy
Week 1: Continued medical care; evidence backup; strategic planning with counsel

For Students: Safety Planning and Rights

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide

Are you being forced or pressured to do something unsafe or degrading?
Would you do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
Is this activity something you’d hide from parents or administrators?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t do themselves?
Are you being told to keep secrets or lie about activities?

If You Need to Exit Safely

Immediate danger: Call 911 or campus police
Safe location: Your dorm, friend’s place, public area
Formal resignation: Email chapter president (creates paper trail)
Avoid “one last meeting”: Where pressure or retaliation might occur
Report retaliation: To Dean of Students and police if threatened

Your Legal Rights in Texas

Good-faith reporter protection: You won’t be punished for calling 911 in emergencies
Consent isn’t defense: Even if you “agreed,” hazing is still illegal
Civil lawsuit option: You can seek damages even without criminal charges
Non-retaliation rights: Universities must protect those who report

For Witnesses and Former Members

If You Participated and Regret It

Your testimony could prevent future harm
Consult your own attorney about potential exposure
Cooperation can sometimes mitigate consequences
Moral clarity: Preventing another tragedy matters

If You Witnessed Hazing

Document what you saw (notes, photos if safe)
Consider anonymous reporting options
Your evidence could save lives in future cases
Legal protection: Witness intimidation is itself a crime

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKE #1: Letting evidence be destroyed

What happens: Deleted group chats, “lost” photos, sanitized narratives
Our solution: Immediate preservation before phones are “cleaned”

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the organization directly

What happens: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Our solution: Quiet documentation, then legal action

MISTAKE #3: Signing university “resolution” agreements

What happens: You waive rights for minimal concessions
Our solution: Attorney review before any signatures

MISTAKE #4: Posting on social media

What happens: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Our solution: Private documentation only

MISTAKE #5: Waiting for “internal investigation”

What happens: Evidence disappears; witnesses graduate; statute runs
Our solution: Parallel preservation and investigation

MISTAKE #6: Talking to insurance adjusters

What happens: Recorded statements used against you; lowball settlements
Our solution: “My attorney will contact you”

MISTAKE #7: Letting shame prevent action

What happens: Silence enables repeat offenses
Our solution: Confidential, compassionate advocacy

Watch our video on common client mistakes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

Frequently Asked Questions for Texas Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities have sovereign immunity limitations, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual capacity lawsuits. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Each case requires individual analysis—call 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific guidance.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas Education Code §37.152 makes hazing a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. The UH Pi Kappa Phi case involving rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure potentially meets this threshold.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the activities?”
Texas Education Code §37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t truly voluntary. This was established in cases like Max Gruver at LSU.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally two years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the discovery rule may extend this if the harm wasn’t immediately apparent. In cases involving cover-ups, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—call immediately. Learn more in our statute of limitations video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

“What if it happened off-campus at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and foreseeability. The Pi Delta Psi case (fatal retreat) and Sigma Pi case (unofficial house death) both resulted in liability despite off-campus locations.

“Will this be public? My child wants privacy.”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. While some media attention may occur (as with the UH Pi Kappa Phi case), we prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“How much does it cost to hire a hazing attorney?”
We work on contingency—no fee unless we recover compensation. Learn how contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

“Do you handle cases outside Houston?”
Yes. While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas and can associate with local counsel in other jurisdictions when needed. Piney Point Village families with students at any Texas campus can benefit from our expertise.

About The Manginello Law Firm / Attorney911: Why Texas Families Choose Us

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

When your Piney Point Village 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 a national firm
Knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) claims
Understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”
Learn about Lupe’s background: 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 ($2.1+ billion settlement)
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. We know how to fight powerful defendants.”
Ralph’s complete credentials: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience

Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases with economist collaboration
Experience valuing lifetime care needs (brain injury, permanent disability)
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”
Our wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
Criminal defense capability: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/

Investigative Depth and Resources

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

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Data-Driven Advocacy

For Piney Point Village families, our proprietary data systems provide unmatched investigative advantage:

IRS B83 Organization Tracking

125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations with EINs, legal names, addresses
Examples from Houston metro:
- Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Beta Sigma Chapter (Houston)
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Alpha Kappa Omega (Houston graduate chapter)
- Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity – Eta Rho Sigma (Houston graduate chapter)
- Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (Houston alumni/house corp.)

Metro-Level Greek Ecosystem Analysis

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro: 188 Greek organizations tracked
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510 organizations
Austin-Round Rock Metro: 154 organizations
San Antonio Metro: 86 organizations

Campus-Specific Chapter Intelligence

Verified rosters for UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
Historical violation tracking across campuses
National organization pattern analysis

Why We Understand Piney Point Village Families

Local Knowledge and Connection

Based in Houston, serving Memorial, Piney Point Village, and surrounding communities
Understand the social and academic pressures in affluent Houston neighborhoods
Familiar with local schools, universities, and social networks

Discretion and Professionalism

We handle sensitive cases with the discretion families expect
Respect for privacy while aggressively pursuing accountability
Experience working with prominent families and professionals

Results That Matter

While every case differs, our approach combines:
- Thorough investigation
- Strategic legal positioning
- Empathetic client support
- Determined pursuit of justice

Your Next Step: Confidential Consultation for Piney Point Village Families

If Hazing Has Impacted Your Family

Whether you’re in Piney Point Village, Memorial, River Oaks, or anywhere in Texas, if hazing has hurt your child, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions involved have legal teams and crisis management plans. You need equal footing.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

We listen without judgment to understand what happened
Review any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain your legal options clearly: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
Answer questions about costs (contingency fee—we don’t get paid unless we win)
No pressure to hire us—take time to decide with full information
Everything confidential—protected by attorney-client privilege

Contact The Manginello Law Firm Today

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com

Spanish Language Services Available
Hablamos Español – Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish

Serving All Texas from Our Houston Office

While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas and consult on cases nationwide. Piney Point Village families with students at any Texas campus can benefit from our experience, resources, and dedication.

The time to act is now. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Institutions cover their tracks. Statutes of limitations run.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you get answers, hold the right people accountable, and prevent this from happening to another family.

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

Click2Houston investigation: 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 with detailed timeline: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
Hoodline summary of $10M lawsuit: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational Videos

Evidence preservation with cellphones: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas statutes of limitations explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes that can ruin cases: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Practice Areas

Main website: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal defense practice: 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/