The Complete Guide to Hazing in Texas: What City of Hubbard Parents and Families Need to Know

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You’re Not Alone—And You Have Rights

Imagine this scenario, one that could involve a student from right here in Hubbard, Hill County: Your son or daughter, excited about starting their college journey at a Texas university, decides to join a fraternity, sorority, or campus organization. What begins as bonding and tradition gradually becomes something darker—forced drinking sessions that leave them dangerously intoxicated, humiliating rituals captured on cell phones, exhausting physical “workouts” that cross into abuse, and a constant fear of speaking up because “everyone before them did it.” Then comes the phone call no parent wants: your child is in the emergency room with acute kidney failure, traumatic injuries, or psychological trauma. The organization is closing ranks, the university is giving vague assurances, and you don’t know where to turn.

This isn’t just a hypothetical fear. Right now, in Houston, we’re actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history—representing Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders. The allegations are shocking: a “pledge fanny pack” rule requiring degrading items, forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” extreme workouts leading to rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure that hospitalized him for four days. This case, happening right now in our state, shows exactly what Texas families are up against.

What This Guide Offers to Hubbard Families

This comprehensive resource is written specifically for parents and families in Hubbard, Hill County, and throughout Central Texas who need clear, factual information about:

• What hazing really looks like in 2025—beyond the stereotypes to the dangerous realities happening at Texas campuses
• Texas hazing laws and your family’s rights—including how consent isn’t a defense and who can be held liable
• Lessons from major national cases and how they apply to students at Texas universities
• What’s happening at the universities where Hubbard families send their children—Baylor University in nearby Waco, Texas A&M, UT Austin, University of Houston, and others
• Practical steps to protect your child, preserve evidence, and seek accountability
• Why experienced Texas hazing litigation matters when facing universities and national fraternities with unlimited legal resources

If you’re reading this because you suspect or know your child has been hazed, please understand: you don’t have to navigate this alone. The patterns we’ve seen at Baylor University (just 50 miles from Hubbard), Texas A&M, UT Austin, and other Texas campuses follow predictable, dangerous scripts—and Texas law provides pathways to accountability.

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 Beyond the Stereotypes

For Hubbard families who may be unfamiliar with modern campus dynamics, understanding hazing requires moving beyond dated stereotypes of “harmless pranks” or “boys will be boys.” Today’s hazing is sophisticated, often digitally documented, and dangerously normalized within certain organizations.

A Modern Definition of Hazing

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

The Main Categories of Hazing Today

Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common and deadliest form. It includes forced chugging challenges, “lineup” drinking games where pledges must rapidly consume alcohol, “Big/Little” nights with handles of liquor, and pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances. The recent University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi case involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting—a classic substance hazing tactic.

Physical Hazing
Beyond traditional paddling, modern physical hazing includes extreme calisthenics disguised as “workouts,” sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions,” food/water restriction, and exposure to dangerous environments. In the UH case, pledges endured 100+ push-ups, 500 squats, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, and lying in vomit-soaked grass.

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
This includes forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, degrading costumes, and acts with racial or sexist overtones. The “pledge fanny pack” in the UH case containing condoms and sex toys represents this category, as does the reported hog-tying of another pledge face-down on a table.

Psychological Hazing
Verbal abuse, threats, isolation, manipulation, and public shaming—whether in meetings or on social media—create lasting trauma. The constant threats of expulsion for non-compliance in the UH case exemplify psychological coercion.

Digital/Online Hazing
Group chat dares, TikTok challenges, Instagram humiliation, Discord server harassment, and pressure to create compromising content represent hazing’s digital evolution. The 24/7 monitoring and instant response demands through GroupMe or WhatsApp create constant psychological pressure.

Where Hazing Happens: It’s Not Just “Frat Boys”

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

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

This diversity matters because the same legal principles apply regardless of the organization’s letters or purpose. A Baylor University athletic team hazing incident carries the same potential liability as a University of Houston fraternity case.

The Culture That Enables Hazing

Three factors keep hazing alive despite universal condemnation:

1. Tradition Worship: “This is how it’s always been done” overrides safety concerns
2. Social Status Calculus: Members believe the social benefits outweigh the risks
3. Systemic Secrecy: Codes of silence, deleted messages, and witness intimidation prevent exposure

For Hubbard families, understanding these dynamics is crucial because they explain why your child might not come forward immediately—and why organizations fight so hard to maintain secrecy.

Texas Hazing Law: What Hubbard Families Need to Know About Rights and Liability

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws that apply to incidents involving students from Hubbard attending any Texas university. Understanding this framework is essential for knowing your rights and potential legal pathways.

Texas Education Code – Chapter 37: The Hazing Statute

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

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

Key implications for Hubbard families:

• Location doesn’t matter—off-campus houses, retreats, or remote locations are covered
• Mental harm counts equally with physical harm
• “Reckless” behavior qualifies—intent to harm isn’t required
• This definition covers what happened at UH and could cover incidents at Baylor or other Texas schools

§ 37.152: Criminal Penalties

• Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause 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, clubs, and teams can be criminally prosecuted if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
• An officer/member acting in official capacity knew about hazing and failed to report it
• Penalties include fines up to $10,000 per violation and university sanctions

§ 37.155: Consent Is NOT a Defense
Texas law explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the hazing activity.” This directly counters the most common excuse organizations use.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases

• Brought by the state (district attorney)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Charges can include: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases

• Example: The criminal charges against Phi Delta Theta members in the Max Gruver case at LSU

Civil Cases

• Brought by victims or surviving families
• Aim: Monetary compensation and accountability
• Legal theories: negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress

• Example: The $10 million lawsuit we’re handling for Leonel Bermudez against UH and Pi Kappa Phi

Critical Understanding: These cases can run simultaneously, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue civil action. Many hazing cases proceed civilly even when criminal charges aren’t filed.

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)

• Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently
• Strengthens hazing education and prevention
• Mandates public hazing data (phased in by 2026)
• Applies to all Texas public universities and private schools receiving federal funds

Title IX & Clery Act Implications

• When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger
• Clery Act requires reporting certain crimes—hazing often overlaps with assault or alcohol crimes
• These federal frameworks provide additional accountability pathways

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

For Hubbard families considering legal action, understanding potential defendants is crucial:

Individual Students

• Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
• Example: The 13 named individual defendants in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case

Local Chapter/Organization

• The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if incorporated)
• Officers and “pledge educators” acting in official capacities

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
• Example: Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters being sued in the UH case

University or Governing Board

• Schools may be liable under negligence or civil rights theories
• Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference
• Example: University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents as defendants

Third Parties

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

Every case is fact-specific, but this defendant universe shows the comprehensive approach needed for meaningful accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What History Teaches Us About Texas Risks

The hazing incidents affecting Texas students don’t occur in a vacuum. National patterns provide crucial context for Hubbard families understanding what their children might face at Baylor, Texas A&M, UT, or other campuses.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern: The Deadliest Script

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)

• Bid-acceptance event with extreme drinking
• Severe falls captured on chapter cameras; hours delayed before medical help
• Dozens of criminal charges; new Pennsylvania anti-hazing law named after him
• Takeaway for Texas families: Delayed medical response and cover-up culture can be legally devastating

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• “Bible study” drinking game—wrong answers meant forced drinking
• Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
• Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
• Takeaway: Legislative change often follows tragedy and litigation

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)
• Former chapter president ordered to pay $6.5 million personally
• Takeaway: Universities and nationals face massive financial exposure; individual officers can bear personal liability

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

• “Big Brother Night” with handles of hard liquor
• Death led to FSU temporarily suspending all Greek life
• Takeaway: Formulaic drinking “traditions” are repeated scripts for disaster

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern: Beyond Alcohol

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

• Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
• Fatal head injuries; delayed medical response
• Fraternity banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years; national organization criminally convicted
• Takeaway: Off-campus retreats can be particularly dangerous; national organizations face criminal liability

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

• Forced excessive drinking during “pledge dad reveal”
• Severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
• Settlements with 22 defendants, reportedly multi-million dollar
• Takeaway: Non-fatal injuries can cause lifelong devastation; multiple defendants often share 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
• Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to big-money athletic programs

College of Charleston Sigma Chi (2024)

• Pledge alleged physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, psychological torment
• Family received more than $10 million in damages
• Takeaway: Juries award substantial damages for severe psychological and physical harm

What These Cases Mean for Hubbard Families

1. Pattern Recognition Matters: The same dangerous scripts repeat across campuses
2. Delayed Medical Response Exacerbates Harm: Cover-up culture causes additional liability
3. Multiple Defendant Strategy Works: Suing individuals, chapters, nationals, and universities maximizes accountability
4. Legislative Change Follows Tragedy: Public cases drive legal reforms
5. Substantial Financial Recovery Is Possible: Multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts show serious compensation is achievable

For a Hubbard student at Baylor University or another Texas campus, these national precedents establish what courts recognize as foreseeable harm and appropriate compensation.

Texas University Focus: Where Hubbard Families Send Their Children

Hubbard families have deep connections to Texas higher education. Many students attend Baylor University in nearby Waco (just 50 miles away), while others choose Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, University of Houston, Southern Methodist University, or other Texas campuses. Each has distinct hazing risks and histories.

Baylor University: Closest Major Campus to Hubbard

Campus & Culture Snapshot

• Private Christian university in Waco (McLennan County)
• Strong Greek life presence alongside religious identity
• History of scrutiny over campus safety and institutional response
• Particular relevance to Hubbard families: Proximity makes Baylor a common choice

Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

• Baylor prohibits hazing in student organization policies
• Reporting through Student Conduct Administration
• Critical context: Baylor’s past Title IX and sexual assault scandals have shaped institutional response patterns

Documented Incidents & Responses

• 2020 Baseball Hazing: 14 players suspended following hazing investigation; staggered suspensions during season
• Ongoing Greek life conduct cases (details often confidential due to private university status)
• Pattern concern: Private religious universities sometimes prioritize institutional protection over victim advocacy

How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: McLennan County courts (Waco)
• Police involvement: Baylor Department of Public Safety and/or Waco PD
• Potential defendants: Individuals, local chapter, national organization, Baylor University
• Unique factors: Religious identity affects public relations; private status affects transparency

What Baylor Students & Hubbard Parents Should Do

• Document through Baylor’s conduct system but preserve independent evidence
• Understand that private university investigations may lack transparency
• Seek medical care at Baylor Scott & White or other independent providers
• Contact experienced counsel early—Baylor has experienced defense teams

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

Campus & Culture Snapshot

• Public flagship in College Station
• Corps of Cadets tradition creates unique hazing risks
• Large Greek life community alongside Corps
• Hubbard connection: Many Central Texas students choose A&M

Hazing Policy & Reporting

• Student Rules prohibit hazing
• Corps has additional regulations
• Reporting through Student Conduct Office

Documented Incidents & Responses

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries; fraternity suspended; $1 million lawsuit
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts, being bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth; sought over $1 million
• Public records show multiple Greek organization sanctions for hazing violations

How an A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Brazos County courts
• Police: Texas A&M University Police and/or College Station PD
• Sovereign immunity considerations: Public university status affects litigation strategy
• Corps cases involve both university and military-style chain of command issues

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Tradition

Campus & Culture Snapshot

• Public flagship with massive Greek life
• Texas Cowboys and other spirit organizations alongside fraternities/sororities
• Relatively high transparency compared to other schools

Hazing Policy & Reporting

• UT maintains public hazing violations page (hazing.utexas.edu)
• Detailed listings of organizations, conduct, sanctions
• Model for transparency other schools should follow

Documented Incidents & Responses

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter probation
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (2024): Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted at party; injuries included dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose; sued for over $1 million
• Multiple organizations on public hazing log for alcohol hazing, forced workouts, humiliation

How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Travis County courts
• Police: UT Police Department and/or Austin PD
• Advantage: Public hazing log provides pattern evidence for litigation
• Sovereign immunity considerations for public university

University of Houston: Current Ground Zero for Texas Hazing Litigation

Campus & Culture Snapshot

• Large urban commuter and residential campus
• Diverse Greek life including NPHC, multicultural councils
• Current significance: Site of our active $10 million Pi Kappa Phi case

Hazing Policy & Reporting

• UH prohibits hazing on and off campus
• Reporting through Dean of Students
• Current case shows policy enforcement gaps

Documented Incidents & Responses

• Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi Case (2025): $10 million lawsuit alleging “pledge fanny pack” humiliation, forced consumption until vomiting, hose spraying “similar to waterboarding,” extreme workouts causing rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure
• Chapter suspended November 6, 2025; charter surrendered November 14, 2025
• UH called conduct “deeply disturbing,” promised disciplinary/criminal referrals
• Earlier incidents: Pi Kappa Alpha case (2016) with lacerated spleen injury

How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Harris County courts
• Police: UHPD and/or Houston PD
• Our current case demonstrates comprehensive defendant strategy: individuals, chapter, housing corporation, national headquarters, university, board of regents

Southern Methodist University: Private School Dynamics

Campus & Culture Snapshot

• Private university in Dallas with affluent reputation
• Strong Greek life presence
• Different legal landscape as private institution

Hazing Policy & Reporting

• SMU prohibits hazing
• Reporting through Student Conduct
• Less transparency than public schools

Documented Incidents & Responses

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, sleep deprived; chapter suspended
• Confidential disciplinary outcomes common at private schools

How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Dallas County courts
• Police: SMU Department of Public Safety and/or Dallas PD
• No sovereign immunity issues (private university)
• Discovery challenges: Private schools resist information disclosure

Additional Texas Campuses Relevant to Hubbard Families

Texas State University (San Marcos)

• Growing Greek life community
• Documented hazing violations
• Proximity to Central Texas makes it relevant

University of North Texas (Denton)

• Large Greek life presence
• Multiple documented hazing incidents
• North Texas destination for many students

Texas Tech University (Lubbock)

• Major West Texas campus
• Significant Greek life
• Documented hazing cases including rhabdomyolysis incidents

For Hubbard families, the key understanding is that no Texas campus is immune. Each has documented incidents, and the legal principles remain consistent across institutions.

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories Meet Texas Chapters

When a Hubbard student joins a fraternity or sorority at Baylor, Texas A&M, or another Texas campus, they’re not just joining a local group—they’re connecting to a national organization with its own hazing history. These national patterns matter tremendously for liability and prevention.

Why National Histories Matter for Texas Cases

National fraternity and sorority headquarters:

• Maintain anti-hazing policies because they’ve seen deaths and injuries
• Collect dues and exercise control over chapters
• Have historical knowledge of dangerous “traditions”
• Can be held liable for failing to prevent foreseeable harm

In litigation, we use these national histories to show foreseeability—that the organization knew or should have known certain activities were dangerous based on prior incidents elsewhere.

Major National Organizations Present at Texas Campuses

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / “Pike”)

• National history: Stone Foltz death (BGSU, $10M settlement), David Bogenberger death (NIU, $14M settlement)
• Texas presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor, Texas State
• Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing, forced consumption rituals
• Liability significance: National had prior notice of deadly patterns

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / “SAE”)

• National history: Multiple hazing deaths nationwide; eliminated traditional pledge process in 2014
• Texas presence: Chapters at UT (recent assault case), Texas A&M (chemical burns case), UH
• Pattern: Physical violence, alcohol hazing, assault
• Unique factor: National attempted reform shows knowledge of problems

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

• National history: Andrew Coffey death (FSU)
• Texas presence: UH chapter (our current case), other Texas campuses
• Pattern: Physical hazing, alcohol coercion, humiliation rituals
• Current relevance: Our UH case shows national patterns repeating in Texas

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

• National history: Max Gruver death (LSU, led to Louisiana felony hazing law)
• Texas presence: Multiple campus chapters
• Pattern: “Bible study” drinking games, alcohol coercion
• Legislative impact: Case drove felony hazing statute

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)

• National history: Multiple hazing suspensions including SMU chapter
• Texas presence: SMU, Texas A&M, other campuses
• Pattern: Paddling, physical abuse, alcohol hazing

Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / “Fiji”)

• National history: Danny Santulli catastrophic brain injury (Missouri)
• Texas presence: Multiple chapters
• Pattern: Extreme alcohol hazing leading to permanent disability

Sigma Chi (ΣΧ)

• National history: College of Charleston case ($10M+ verdict)
• Texas presence: Chapters at Baylor, UT, Texas A&M, others
• Pattern: Physical violence, forced substance use

Sorority Hazing: Often Overlooked but Equally Damaging

While less publicly documented, sorority hazing occurs through:

• Psychological manipulation and humiliation
• Sleep deprivation and exhausting schedules
• Forced alcohol consumption
• Extreme social control and isolation
• Legal significance: Same liability principles apply regardless of gender

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: Public Records Reality

Our firm maintains a Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracking Greek organizations across the state. For Hubbard families, understanding this ecosystem matters because behind every chapter are legal entities that can be held accountable.

Texas-Registered Greek Organizations (IRS B83 Data)
The IRS records show 125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations including:

• Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN 462267515) – Frisco, TX 75035
• Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation (EIN 371768785) – Missouri City, TX 77459
• Sigma Phi Epsilon Texas Eta (EIN 824398421) – Richmond, TX 77406
• Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc (EIN 741380362) – Fort Worth, TX 76147
• Chi Omega Fraternity (EIN 740555581) – Austin, TX 78705
• Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter (EIN 746084905) – Houston, TX 77204
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (EIN 746064445) – Nederland, TX 77627
• Kappa Sigma – Mu Gamma Chapter Inc (EIN 273662583) – Lufkin, TX 75904
• Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc (EIN 475370943) – Houston, TX 77204
• Phi Delta Theta Fraternity (EIN 900927378) – San Antonio, TX 78249

Metro Area Concentrations (Cause IQ Data)

• Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510 Greek organizations
• Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro: 188 organizations
• Austin-Round Rock Metro: 154 organizations
• San Antonio Metro: 86 organizations
• College Station-Bryan Metro: 42 organizations
• Waco Metro: 27 organizations (relevant for Baylor/Hubbard families)

What This Means for Litigation
These registered entities:

• Carry insurance policies
• Own property (houses, retreat facilities)
• Have legal standing to be sued
• Maintain governance over chapters

For a Hubbard family pursuing a case, identifying all related entities is crucial for maximizing recovery and accountability.

Connecting National Patterns to Texas Realities

The same national organizations involved in fatal cases elsewhere operate chapters at Texas campuses. When a Texas chapter repeats dangerous patterns, courts consider:

1. Did the national organization know about prior incidents?
2. Were adequate safeguards implemented?
3. Was supervision meaningful or just paper compliance?
4. Did the organization profit while turning a blind eye?

Our UH Pi Kappa Phi case exemplifies this: national patterns of physical hazing and alcohol coercion repeating in Texas with catastrophic results.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategic Considerations

For Hubbard families considering legal action, understanding how hazing cases are built and fought is essential. These are complex institutional cases requiring strategic depth.

Evidence: The Foundation of Any Case

Digital Communications (Most Critical Category)

• Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack
• Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook Messenger
• Recovered data: Digital forensics can retrieve deleted messages
• Our approach: Immediate preservation before deletion; subpoena for platform records

Photos & Videos

• Content filmed during events (often shared in group chats)
• Security/doorbell camera footage
• Social media posts documenting activities
• Critical insight: Members often document their own misconduct

Internal Organization Documents

• Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
• Emails/texts planning events
• National policies and training materials
• Membership rosters and officer lists

University Records

• Prior conduct files and disciplinary history
• Incident reports to campus police/conduct offices
• Clery Act reports and safety disclosures
• Internal emails among administrators

Medical & Psychological Records

• Emergency room and hospitalization records
• Toxicology reports and lab results
• Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
• Long-term treatment plans

Witness Testimony

• Other pledges and new members
• Former members who quit
• Roommates, RAs, bystanders
• Medical providers and first responders

Damages: What Can Be Recovered

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

• Medical expenses: ER care, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, ongoing treatment
• Future medical needs: Lifelong care for permanent injuries (brain damage, organ failure)
• Lost earning capacity: Reduced lifetime earnings due to disability or educational disruption
• Educational costs: Lost tuition, scholarships, delayed graduation

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real Harm)

• Physical pain and suffering from injuries
• Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma
• Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in activities
• Humiliation and reputational harm

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
• Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering

Punitive Damages (When Available)

• To punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
• Available when defendants show conscious indifference
• Texas caps may apply but exceptions exist for gross negligence

Case Strategy: Multiple Defendant Approach

Why Sue Multiple Parties?

1. Insurance coverage maximization: Different entities have different policies
2. Accountability spread: All responsible parties share liability
3. Information access: Discovery from multiple sources reveals full picture
4. Settlement leverage: More defendants often means earlier resolution

Our UH Case Defendant Strategy:

1. 13 Individual members (direct perpetrators)
2. Local chapter (organizing entity)
3. Housing corporation (property and assets)
4. National headquarters (supervision and policy)
5. University of Houston (institutional oversight)
6. UH System Board of Regents (governing authority)

Insurance Coverage Complexities

Fraternity and university insurers often argue:

• “Hazing is intentional conduct” (policy exclusion)
• “This was rogue individuals” (not organizational conduct)
• “Location isn’t covered” (off-campus events)

Our Insider Advantage:
Mr. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney gives us unique insight into:

• How insurers value and reserve hazing claims
• Coverage exclusion arguments and counter-strategies
• Settlement negotiation tactics and timing
• Bad faith litigation when coverage is wrongfully denied

Statute of Limitations: Time Is Critical

Texas General Rule: 2 years from date of injury or death
Exceptions:

• Discovery rule: Clock may start when harm was discovered
• Minority tolling: Paused if victim was under 18
• Fraudulent concealment: Tolled if defendants actively hid misconduct

Practical Reality: Evidence disappears, witnesses scatter, memories fade. Early consultation is essential.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Hubbard Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Hazed

• Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns
• Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
• Sudden secrecy about organization activities
• Personality changes: anxiety, withdrawal, irritability
• Constant phone monitoring for group chat demands
• Academic decline or missed classes
• Financial strain from unexplained expenses

How to Talk to Your Child

• Ask open questions: “How are things really going with [organization]?”
• Listen without judgment if they share concerns
• Emphasize safety over status: “Your health matters more than membership”
• Assure support: “We’re here for you no matter what”

If Your Child Is Hurt

1. Medical care first: ER evaluation even if they resist
2. Document everything: Photos, screenshots, notes
3. Preserve evidence: Don’t let messages be deleted
4. Contact counsel: Before talking to university or organization

Dealing with the University

• Document all communications
• Ask specific questions about prior incidents
• Don’t sign releases or resolutions without legal review
• Understand that university interests may conflict with victim interests

For Students: Safety and Rights

Is This Hazing? Ask Yourself:

• Would I do this if I had a real choice?
• Is this dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Would my parents/university approve if they knew?
• Am I being told to keep secrets?

How to Exit Safely

• Tell someone outside the organization first
• Send written resignation (email/text for record)
• Avoid “one last meeting” where pressure may occur
• Report retaliation immediately to campus officials

Your Legal Rights in Texas

• You cannot be punished for calling 911 in emergencies (good-faith immunity)
• Hazing is a crime—you’re the victim even if you “agreed”
• You can request no-contact orders if harassed
• Civil lawsuits can proceed regardless of criminal charges

Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence
What happens: Messages disappear, case becomes “he said/she said”
What to do: Preserve everything immediately—even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization
What happens: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
What to do: Document quietly, consult attorney first

3. Signing University Agreements
What happens: You may waive rights to sue or accept inadequate settlement
What to do: Never sign anything without attorney review

4. Social Media Posting
What happens: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
What to do: Keep details private; let attorney control messaging

5. Delaying Medical Care
What happens: Injuries worsen; gap in treatment undermines case
What to do: Seek immediate medical attention and follow all recommendations

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters
What happens: Recorded statements used against you; early lowball settlements
What to do: “My attorney will contact you”

7. Waiting for University Investigation
What happens: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
What to do: Parallel track—preserve evidence while university investigates

Frequently Asked Questions

“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 claims. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case requires specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas 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 would qualify for felony consideration.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Consent is not a defense to hazing under Texas law (§37.155). Courts recognize that power imbalance and peer pressure negate true consent.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from injury or death, but exceptions exist. Time is critical—evidence preservation diminishes daily.

“What if hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and foreseeability.

“Will this be confidential?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. We prioritize family privacy while pursuing accountability.

Why The Manginello Law Firm for Texas Hazing Cases

When your Hubbard 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.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

Insurance Insider Advantage (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
• Use delay tactics to pressure families
• Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional conduct”
• Structure settlements to minimize payouts

As he says: “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello)

• BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendants
• Federal Court Admitted: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• HCCLA Membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association signals elite criminal defense capability
• 25+ Years Practice: Deep experience in high-stakes cases

As Ralph notes: “We’ve taken on corporations with unlimited legal budgets. Universities and national fraternities don’t intimidate us.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results

• Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
• Economist collaboration for lifetime care valuation
• Experience with brain injury, permanent disability cases
• We don’t settle cheap—we build cases that force accountability

Dual Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

• Ralph’s HCCLA membership means we understand criminal hazing charges
• Can advise witnesses/former members with dual exposure
• Know how criminal and civil cases interact

Investigative Depth

• Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
• Experience obtaining hidden evidence (deleted messages, chapter records)
• Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracking 1,423 Greek organizations statewide

Spanish-Language Services

• Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
• Critical for serving Texas Hispanic families
• Consultations available in Spanish

Our Approach to Hazing Cases

Thorough Investigation
We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does. This means:

• Immediate evidence preservation before deletion
• Digital forensics for recovered messages
• Subpoenaing national fraternity records
• Uncovering university files through discovery
• Expert consultation early and often

Comprehensive Defendant Strategy
Like our UH case, we identify all liable parties:

• Individual perpetrators
• Local chapters and officers
• Housing corporations and alumni groups
• National headquarters
• Universities and governing boards
• Third parties (property owners, alcohol providers)

Empathetic Victim Advocacy
We recognize this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to:

• Get you answers about what really happened
• Hold the right people accountable
• Help prevent this from happening to another family
• Guide you through the process with compassion

Serving Hubbard and Hill County Families

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Hubbard, Hill County, and all of Central Texas. We understand that:

• Hubbard students often attend Baylor University (50 miles away), Texas A&M, UT Austin, and other Texas campuses
• Hill County families have deep ties to Texas higher education
• Local courts and jurisdictions matter for case strategy
• Community values shape how families approach these difficult situations

Whether your child was hazed at Baylor, Texas A&M, UH, or any Texas campus, we have the experience, resources, and determination to help.

Call to Action: Your Next Steps as a Hubbard Family

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether Baylor University, Texas A&M, UT Austin, University of Houston, or elsewhere—we want to hear from you. Families in Hubbard, Hill County, and throughout Central Texas have the right to answers and accountability.

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

What to Expect:

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

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

Additional Resources

Educational Videos:

• Evidence Preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
• Statute of Limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• Client Mistakes to Avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
• Contingency Fees Explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Practice Area Information:

• Wrongful Death Experience: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
• Criminal Defense Capability: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
• Attorney Profiles: Ralph Manginello (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/), Lupe Peña (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/)

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 UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

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

Educational Videos:

• Evidence Preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
• Statute of Limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• Client Mistakes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
• Contingency Fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Firm Resources:

• Main Website: 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/