The Complete Guide to Hazing, Accountability & Legal Rights for Greenville, Texas Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You’re Not Alone—And Texas Law Is On Your Side

For parents in Greenville, Commerce, and across Hunt County, the college dream can turn into a parent’s worst nightmare overnight. One moment, your child is excited about joining a fraternity, sorority, Corps program, or campus organization at Texas A&M University-Commerce or another Texas school. The next, you’re getting a call from a hospital hours away, learning they’ve been subjected to degrading, dangerous hazing that left them injured—or worse.

Right now, right here in Texas, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in the country. Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after alleged hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. According to detailed media reports, he was forced through extreme workouts, made to carry a humiliating “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms and sex toys, sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and pressured to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting. His urine turned brown, he was hospitalized for four days, and he faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. We represent Bermudez in this $10 million lawsuit against UH, Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders.

This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s happening across Texas—at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, and yes, even at our local campus, Texas A&M University-Commerce. If your child has been hurt by hazing anywhere in Texas, from Greenville to Houston, this comprehensive guide explains what hazing really looks like in 2025, your legal rights under Texas law, and how experienced hazing attorneys hold institutions accountable.

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

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

For Greenville families navigating today’s college landscape, understanding hazing requires moving beyond outdated stereotypes of “harmless pranks” or “boys will be boys.” Modern hazing has evolved into sophisticated, often digitally-enabled abuse that leaves lasting physical and psychological scars.

The Legal Definition That Matters for Texas Families

Under Texas Education Code Chapter 37, hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

1. Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student, AND
2. Occurs for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

What Greenville parents need to understand most: “Consent is not a defense” in Texas. Even if your child “agreed” to participate or felt pressured to go along with “tradition,” the law recognizes that true voluntary consent isn’t possible when there’s power imbalance, peer pressure, and fear of social exclusion.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing
These behaviors emphasize power imbalance but are often dismissed as “harmless”:

• Being on call 24/7 for errands and chauffeuring
• Forced servitude (cleaning, laundry, shopping for older members)
• Social isolation from non-members
• Degrading nicknames and identities
• Mandatory attendance that interferes with academics
• Modern evolution: Constant group chat monitoring, location sharing demands, social media policing

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing
Behaviors causing emotional or physical discomfort:

• Sleep deprivation (late-night meetings, 3 AM wake-up calls)
• Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpleasant substances
• Extreme calisthenics (“smokings”) beyond safe limits
• Public humiliation (embarrassing costumes, public performances)
• Verbal abuse, yelling, threats
• Modern evolution: Digital humiliation via social media, livestreamed degradation, “meme culture” bullying in group chats

Tier 3: Violent Hazing
Activities with high potential for serious injury or death:

• Forced/coerced alcohol consumption (lineup drinking, “Big/Little” nights)
• Forced drug use
• Physical beatings and paddling
• Dangerous “tests” (blindfolded tackles, “glass ceiling” rituals)
• Sexualized hazing (forced nudity, simulated sexual acts)
• Racist/homophobic/sexist degradation
• Kidnapping/restraint
• Modern evolution: “Retreat” hazing at Airbnbs, chemical hazing, fire/burn incidents

Where Hazing Happens at Texas Schools

Greenville families should understand hazing extends far beyond fraternity houses:

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural chapters)
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups (especially at Texas A&M)
• Athletic Teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer, swimming)
• Spirit Squads & Tradition Groups (Texas Cowboys, spirit organizations)
• Marching Bands & Performance Groups
• Academic & Service Organizations

The common thread across all these groups: social status, tradition, and secrecy keep dangerous practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law: What Greenville Families Need to Know

When hazing affects your family, understanding the legal framework is crucial. Texas has specific laws, but their application depends on the details of your case.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Legal Foundation

§ 37.151 Definition: Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers mental or physical health for purposes of initiation or affiliation.

Key points for Greenville families:

• Can happen on or off campus – location doesn’t matter
• Can be mental or physical harm
• “Reckless” is enough – they don’t need malicious intent
• “Consent” is not a defense under § 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 criminal exposure:

• Failing to report hazing (if you’re a member/officer who knew): misdemeanor
• Retaliating against reporters: misdemeanor

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability:
Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be criminally prosecuted if:

• They authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
• An officer/member acting officially knew and failed to report

Penalties for organizations: Up to $10,000 fine per violation, plus university can revoke recognition.

§ 37.154 Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting:
Those who report hazing in good faith to university or law enforcement are immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result. Many Texas universities also provide amnesty in medical emergencies, even if underage drinking was involved.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Two Paths to Accountability

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State):

• Purpose: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Typical charges: Hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Who files: District Attorney or County Attorney
• Burden of proof: Beyond a reasonable doubt

Civil Cases (Brought by Victims/Families):

• Purpose: Compensation and accountability
• Typical claims: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
• Who files: Victims or surviving families through attorneys like us
• Burden of proof: Preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not)

Critical point for Greenville families: These cases can run side-by-side, and a criminal conviction is NOT required to pursue a civil case. Many families achieve justice and compensation through civil litigation even when criminal charges aren’t filed or don’t result in convictions.

Federal Laws Overlaying Texas Cases

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 (phasing in by 2026)
• Impact for Greenville families: More transparency from universities, better data for pattern evidence

Title IX (When Sexual Elements Are Involved):

• Triggers when hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility
• Creates additional reporting and investigation requirements for universities
• May provide additional legal pathways for compensation

Clery Act:

• Requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics
• Hazing incidents often overlap with reportable crimes (assault, alcohol offenses)

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Texas Hazing Case?

1. Individual Students:

• Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
• Including chapter presidents, pledge educators, risk managers

2. Local Chapter/Organization:

• The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if incorporated)
• Housing corporations (owning chapter houses)

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

• Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
• Liability often hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents

4. University or Governing Board:

• Texas A&M University System, UT System, University of Houston System
• Liability theories: negligence, gross negligence, deliberate indifference, Title IX violations
• Sovereign immunity considerations: Public universities have some protections, but exceptions exist

5. Third Parties:

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

6. Alumni Advisors & House Corporations:

• Those providing supervision, funding, or property

Every case is fact-specific. We investigate all potential defendants to ensure complete accountability for Greenville families.

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat at Texas Schools

The tragic cases below aren’t just news stories—they’re blueprints for how hazing unfolds and how institutions respond. When Greenville families understand these patterns, they recognize that what happened to their child follows predictable, preventable scripts.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

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

• What happened: Bid-acceptance event with forced heavy drinking, Piazza fell multiple times, brothers delayed calling 911 for hours while he died from traumatic brain injuries
• Legal outcome: 18 members charged with over 1,000 criminal counts; civil settlements; Pennsylvania enacted Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law
• Texas connection: Beta Theta Pi has chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, other Texas schools
• Why Greenville families should care: The same delay-in-calling-911 pattern happens in Texas cases

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

• What happened: “Big Brother Night” where pledge was given a handle of liquor, died from alcohol poisoning
• Legal outcome: Multiple criminal prosecutions; FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
• Texas connection: Pi Kappa Phi has chapters at UH (now suspended), UT Austin, Texas A&M
• Why Greenville families should care: The “Big/Little” event script repeats across campuses

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• What happened: “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking; died with BAC of 0.495%
• Legal outcome: Members convicted; Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
• Texas connection: Phi Delta Theta has chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, SMU, Baylor
• Why Greenville families should care: Drinking games framed as “tradition” are deadly predictable

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

• What happened: Pledge forced to drink nearly a full bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night, died from alcohol poisoning
• Legal outcome: $10 million total settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU); multiple criminal convictions
• Texas connection: Pi Kappa Alpha has chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, many Texas schools
• Why Greenville families should care: National organizations pay multi-million settlements when patterns prove他们有知情者

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

• What happened: Pledge blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual at retreat; died from traumatic brain injury; help delayed
• Legal outcome: National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
• Why Greenville families should care: Off-campus retreats don’t eliminate liability; national organizations can face criminal prosecution

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

• What happened: 18-year-old pledge forced to consume excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”; suffered severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
• Legal outcome: Settlements with 22 defendants; reported multi-million-dollar recovery
• Texas connection: Phi Gamma Delta has chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M
• Why Greenville families should care: Non-fatal injuries can be catastrophic and require lifetime care

Athletic Program Hazing Pattern

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

• What happened: Former players alleged widespread sexualized, racist hazing within football program over years
• Legal outcome: Multiple lawsuits; head coach fired and settled wrongful-termination suit; confidential settlements with players
• Why Greenville families should care: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to athletic programs with multi-million-dollar budgets

What These National Cases Mean for Greenville Families

1. Patterns repeat: The same scripts (Big/Little nights, drinking games, extreme workouts) recur across campuses
2. Delayed medical care worsens outcomes: Culture of silence around calling 911 appears in case after case
3. National organizations know the risks: Their anti-hazing policies exist precisely because these incidents keep happening
4. Multi-million-dollar accountability is possible: These cases show universities and nationals can be held financially responsible
5. Legislative change follows tragedy: States like Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Ohio, and Florida strengthened laws after high-profile deaths

When your Greenville family faces hazing at a Texas school, you’re dealing with predictable patterns that experienced attorneys know how to investigate and prove.

Texas University Focus: Where Greenville Families Send Their Kids

Greenville sits in the heart of Hunt County, with Texas A&M University-Commerce right in our backyard and major universities within driving distance. Understanding each campus’s hazing landscape helps Greenville families make informed decisions and recognize warning signs.

Texas A&M University-Commerce: Our Local Campus

Campus & Cultural Snapshot for Greenville Families:

• Just 15 minutes from downtown Greenville in neighboring Commerce, Texas
• Part of the Texas A&M University System
• Growing Greek life community alongside traditional student organizations
• Serves many Hunt County students as both commuter and residential campus

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels:

• Prohibits hazing under Texas Education Code and university policy
• Reporting through Dean of Students Office, University Police Department, or online reporting systems
• Subject to Texas A&M System regulations and oversight

What Greenville Families Should Know About A&M-Commerce:

• As part of the Texas A&M System, shares many policies with flagship campus
• Smaller campus can mean closer-knit groups, which may increase peer pressure in hazing situations
• Proximity to Greenville means medical care might initially be at Hunt Regional Medical Center
• University Police and Commerce Police Department may both have jurisdiction depending on location

How a Hazing Case at A&M-Commerce Might Proceed:

• Local jurisdiction: Hunt County courts (86th District Court, 354th District Court)
• Law enforcement: University Police Department and/or Commerce PD
• Potential defendants: Students, student organizations, national organizations, university
• Medical care: Often starts locally at Hunt Regional, may transfer to Dallas or Tyler specialists

What A&M-Commerce Students & Greenville Parents Should Do:

1. Document everything immediately – screenshots, photos, medical records
2. Report to both University Police (903-886-5868) and Dean of Students
3. Preserve evidence – don’t delete group chats or “clean up” social media
4. Seek medical attention even for seemingly minor injuries
5. Contact experienced Texas hazing attorneys who understand the Texas A&M System

University of Houston: Where Our Current Major Case Is Unfolding

Campus & Cultural Snapshot:

• Large urban campus with mix of commuter and residential students
• Active Greek life with 50+ fraternity and sorority chapters
• Many Greenville-area students attend UH for specific programs

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• UH prohibits hazing on and off campus
• Reporting through Dean of Students Office, UHPD, or online forms
• Maintains public records of some disciplinary actions

Documented Incidents & Responses:

• Current case: Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu (our case)
  • $10 million lawsuit alleging extreme physical hazing, humiliation, rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure
  • Chapter suspended November 6, 2025, then voted to surrender charter November 14, 2025
  • UH called conduct “deeply disturbing,” promised disciplinary action and cooperation with law enforcement
• Past incidents: Pi Kappa Alpha chapter suspended after 2016 incident where pledge suffered lacerated spleen

What Greenville Families Should Know About UH:

• Large urban campus means incidents may involve multiple police jurisdictions (UHPD, HPD)
• National fraternities with known hazing histories have active chapters at UH
• Medical care typically at Houston-area hospitals (Memorial Hermann, others)
• Civil cases typically filed in Harris County courts

How a Hazing Case at UH Might Proceed:

• Primary jurisdiction: Harris County courts
• Law enforcement: UHPD for on-campus, HPD for off-campus incidents
• Our current case shows: University, national fraternity, housing corporation, and 13 individuals all named as defendants
• Medical documentation: Critical for proving injuries like rhabdomyolysis

Texas A&M University (College Station)

Campus & Cultural Snapshot:

• Flagship campus with massive Greek life (60+ fraternities/sororities)
• Corps of Cadets tradition with its own culture and risks
• Many Greenville students attend for engineering, business, agriculture programs

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• Prohibits hazing under University Rule 24.06.99.M1
• Reporting through Student Conduct Office, Corps of Cadets chain of command, or University Police
• Separate policies for Greek life and Corps organizations

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 filed
• Corps of Cadets “roasted pig” case (2023): Cadet alleged being bound between beds in degrading position with apple in mouth; sought over $1 million; A&M stated matter handled internally
• Multiple hazing violations documented in university disciplinary records

What Greenville Families Should Know About Texas A&M:

• Corps of Cadets hazing can involve military-style discipline taken to dangerous extremes
• Greek life hazing often follows national patterns seen at other schools
• University Police (979-845-2345) handle on-campus incidents; College Station PD handles off-campus
• Civil cases typically filed in Brazos County courts

Corps of Cadets Specific Concerns for Greenville Families:

• Unique military-style hierarchy can intensify power imbalances
• “Tradition” often cited to justify dangerous practices
  26.06.99.M1 prohibits hazing specifically within Corps
• Reporting can be complicated by chain of command expectations

University of Texas at Austin

Campus & Cultural Snapshot:

• Flagship campus with 60+ Greek chapters
• Relatively transparent hazing violation reporting
• Many Greenville students attend for prestigious academic programs

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• UT maintains public Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu)
• Prohibits hazing under Institutional Rules 11-401 through 11-404
• Reporting through Office of the Dean of Students, UTPD, or anonymous online reporting

Documented Incidents from Public Records:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation with required hazing-prevention education
• Texas Wranglers (spirit organization): Sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing
• Multiple other Greek organizations with documented violations and sanctions

What Greenville Families Should Know About UT Austin:

• Public violation records provide valuable pattern evidence for civil cases
• UTPD (512-471-4441) handles on-campus; Austin PD handles off-campus
• Medical care typically at Dell Seton Medical Center or Ascension Seton
• Civil cases typically filed in Travis County courts

UT’s Transparency Advantage for Greenville Families:
The public hazing violations page allows families to:

1. Check if an organization has prior violations before joining
2. See pattern of repeated offenses by same organizations
3. Use prior violations as evidence of institutional knowledge in lawsuits
4. Compare university responses over time

Southern Methodist University (Dallas)

Campus & Cultural Snapshot:

• Private university with affluent student population
• Strong Greek life presence (about 40% of undergraduates join)
• Many Greenville-area students attend for business, law, arts programs

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• Prohibits hazing under Student Code of Conduct
• Reporting through Office of Student Affairs, SMU PD, or anonymous Real Response system
• As private university, less public transparency than public institutions

Documented Incidents & Responses:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, sleep-deprived; chapter suspended until 2021
• Multiple Greek organizations under investigation at various times
• Confidential disciplinary processes common at private institutions

What Greenville Families Should Know About SMU:

• Private university status means less public record availability
• SMU PD (214-768-3333) has primary jurisdiction on campus
• Medical care typically at Baylor Scott & White or Texas Health Dallas
• Civil cases typically filed in Dallas County courts
• University Park PD may have jurisdiction for off-campus incidents

Baylor University (Waco)

Campus & Cultural Snapshot:

• Private Christian university with religious identity
• History of scrutiny over football and Title IX issues
• Greek life alongside strong religious organization presence

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• Prohibits hazing under University Policies
• Reporting through Student Conduct Administration, Baylor PD, or online reporting
• “Zero tolerance” statements but confidential disciplinary processes

Documented Incidents & Responses:

• Baseball team hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
• Various Greek organization investigations with confidential outcomes
• Ongoing challenges balancing religious identity with accountability

What Greenville Families Should Know About Baylor:

• Religious branding can complicate reporting and accountability
• Baylor PD (254-710-2222) handles on-campus; Waco PD handles off-campus
• Medical care typically at Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest
• Civil cases typically filed in McLennan County courts
• Distance from Greenville: Approximately 2 hours, affecting family access during crisis

Additional Texas Campuses Greenville Families Use

University of North Texas (Denton):

• Growing Greek life community
• UNT Police handle on-campus; Denton PD handles off-campus
• Many Greenville students attend for music, business programs

Texas Tech University (Lubbock):

• Active Greek life with 50+ chapters
• Lubbock PD handles most off-campus incidents
• Distance from Greenville requires planning for family support

Texas State University (San Marcos):

• Rapidly growing Greek life
• University Police and San Marcos PD share jurisdiction
• Popular choice for Central Texas students

For Greenville families, the key takeaway: hazing happens at every type of Texas campus—public, private, religious, large, small, near, and far. The patterns are similar, and the legal recourse follows similar principles under Texas law.

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories That Matter for Greenville Families

When your child is hazed at a Texas university, you’re not just dealing with local students making poor choices. You’re confronting national organizations with long histories of similar incidents across the country. This pattern evidence becomes crucial in holding them accountable.

Why National Histories Matter for Greenville Cases

National fraternities and sororities maintain extensive anti-hazing policies precisely because they’ve seen deaths and catastrophic injuries at their chapters. When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous script that got another chapter shut down in Ohio or Louisiana, that demonstrates:

1. Foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known this could happen
2. Pattern of conduct: This isn’t an isolated “rogue chapter” but part of a systemic problem
3. Inadequate prevention: Their policies and supervision failed to prevent predictable harm
4. Basis for punitive damages: Willful disregard of known risks can justify additional penalties

Major National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) – Present at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, many Texas schools

• Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State University, died from alcohol poisoning during “Big/Little” night – $10 million settlement
• David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois University, died from alcohol poisoning – $14 million settlement
• Multiple other alcohol-related deaths across decades
• Pattern: “Big/Little” drinking events, forced alcohol consumption, delayed medical care

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) – Present at UT Austin, Texas A&M, SMU, Baylor

• Texas A&M chemical burns case (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner causing severe burns requiring skin grafts – $1 million lawsuit
• University of Alabama TBI case (2023): Pledge allegedly suffered traumatic brain injury during hazing
• Multiple alcohol-related deaths nationwide over decades
• Pattern: Physical abuse, chemical hazing, alcohol poisoning risks

Pi Kappa Phi – Present at UH (now suspended), UT Austin, Texas A&M

• Andrew Coffey: Florida State University, died from alcohol poisoning during “Big Brother Night”
• Leonel Bermudez: University of Houston, rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure from extreme hazing – $10 million lawsuit (our current case)
• Pattern: Extreme physical hazing combined with humiliation rituals

Phi Delta Theta – Present at UT Austin, Texas A&M, SMU, Baylor

• Max Gruver: LSU, died from alcohol poisoning during “Bible study” drinking game
• Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act created felony hazing statute after his death
• Pattern: Drinking games framed as “traditions” or “education”

Beta Theta Pi – Present at UT Austin, Texas A&M, SMU

• Timothy Piazza: Penn State, died from traumatic brain injuries after bid-acceptance drinking, delayed medical care
• Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law enacted after his death
• Pattern: Extreme intoxication combined with failure to seek medical help

Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) – Present at UT Austin, Texas A&M

• Danny Santulli: University of Missouri, permanent catastrophic brain damage from forced drinking
• Settlements with 22 defendants, reportedly multi-million dollar recovery
• Pattern: “Pledge reveal” events with excessive alcohol

How We Use National Histories in Greenville Cases

When representing Greenville families, we investigate:

1. Prior incidents at same chapter: Has this chapter been warned, sanctioned, or suspended before?
2. Incidents at other chapters of same national: What patterns exist across the organization?
3. National’s response to prior incidents: Were sanctions meaningful or mere “slaps on the wrist”?
4. Policy vs. practice gap: Did national have policies but fail to enforce them?
5. Knowledge and foreseeability: What should national have known about risks based on their own history?

This investigation often involves:

• Subpoenaing national organization incident reports
• Reviewing internal communications about chapter supervision
• Analyzing risk management files
• Consulting experts on Greek organization practices and supervision standards

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Our Investigative Advantage

For Greenville families, we maintain what we call our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine – a comprehensive database of Texas Greek organizations built from:

Table A – IRS B83 Texas Organizations (125+ entities):
Public filings showing Texas-registered Greek organizations with EINs, legal names, and addresses. For example:

• Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc, EIN 46-2267515, 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035 (IRS B83 filing)
• Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc, EIN 74-1380362, PO Box 470061, Fort Worth, TX 76147 (IRS B83 filing)

1. Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, EIN 74-6064445, 1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627 (IRS B83 filing)

Table B – Texas Universities (96 campuses):
Complete listing including Texas A&M University-Commerce (our local campus), University of Houston, Texas A&M University, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, and others Greenville families use.

Table C – Cause IQ Metro Organizations:
Metro-level data showing Greek organization concentrations. For the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro (which includes Hunt County), Cause IQ reports 510 Greek-related organizations. Examples from our database:

• Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity, Fort Worth, TX – 12650 N Beach St #30, Suite 114, Fort Worth, TX 76244
• Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation, Fort Worth, TX
• Delta Tau Delta Fraternity – Gamma Iota Chapter, Austin, TX

Table D – Brand Overlap Analysis:
36 confirmed matches between IRS organizations and Cause IQ metro listings, proving we can track specific national brands across Texas.

Why This Matters for Greenville Families:
When your child is hazed, we don’t start from zero. We already know:

• The legal entities behind local chapters
• Where to find national organization assets in Texas
• How to trace liability up the organizational chain
• Which insurance policies might provide coverage
• What patterns exist with specific national brands

This investigative depth means we can move quickly to preserve evidence, identify all responsible parties, and build the strongest possible case for Greenville families.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy & Realistic Expectations for Greenville Families

When hazing injures your child, knowing how experienced attorneys build cases helps you understand the process and make informed decisions. Here’s what Greenville families should expect.

Critical Evidence That Wins Cases

1. Digital Communications (Most Important Category):

• Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack
• Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments
• Recovered messages: Even deleted messages can often be recovered through digital forensics
• What we look for: Planning discussions, instructions to pledges, admissions of hazing, evidence of cover-up attempts

2. Photos & Videos:

• Content filmed during hazing events
• Social media posts showing injuries or degrading acts
• Security camera footage from houses or venues
• Time-stamped evidence showing sequence of events

3. Internal Organization Documents:

• Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
• Emails/texts between officers about activities
• National organization policies and training materials
• Meeting minutes discussing pledge activities

4. University Records:

• Prior conduct files and disciplinary records
• Incident reports to campus police or conduct offices
• Clery Act reports and safety disclosures
• Internal emails about the organization or prior incidents

5. Medical & Psychological Records:

• Emergency room and hospitalization records
• Toxicology reports (blood alcohol, drug tests)
• Surgical notes and rehabilitation records
• Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses)
• Crucial for Greenville families: Complete medical documentation, even if injuries seem minor initially

6. Witness Testimony:

• Other pledges who experienced similar treatment
• Former members who quit or were expelled
• Roommates, friends, RAs who observed changes
• Medical personnel who treated injuries

Damages: What Greenville Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical expenses: Past and future care, including surgery, therapy, medications
• Lost income: Time off work for recovery (for student or caring parent)
• Educational impact: Tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships, delayed graduation
• Future earning capacity: Reduced lifetime earnings if injuries cause permanent disability

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real Harm):

• Physical pain and suffering from injuries
• Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in activities they loved
• Damage to relationships with family and friends

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of financial support your child would have provided
• Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
• Emotional suffering of parents and siblings

Punitive Damages (When Available):

• Additional penalties for particularly reckless or malicious conduct
• Designed to punish defendants and deter future hazing
• Available under Texas law in certain circumstances

How Recovery Actually Works

Most Cases Settle:

• Confidential agreements with universities, national organizations, insurance companies
• Avoids public trial and provides certainty
• Typical range: Based on injury severity, from substantial six-figure settlements to multi-million dollar recoveries in catastrophic cases

When Cases Go to Trial:

• Juries can award significant verdicts (examples: $12.6M in Chad Meredith case, $6.1M in Max Gruver case)
• Public accountability and potential for larger awards
• Higher risk and longer timeline

Our Approach for Greenville Families:
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This trial readiness gives us maximum leverage in settlement negotiations. Universities and national fraternities know which attorneys will actually take cases to verdict versus those who settle cheaply early.

Insurance Coverage: The Hidden Battle

Fraternities, sororities, and universities typically have insurance policies that may cover hazing claims. However, insurers often argue:

1. Hazing is excluded as “intentional conduct”
2. Certain defendants aren’t covered under the policy
3. Policy limits are inadequate for serious injuries

Our experience with insurance coverage battles (thanks to Mr. Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney) helps us:

• Identify all potential insurance policies
• Navigate coverage exclusions and arguments
• Pursue “bad faith” claims if insurers wrongfully deny coverage
• Maximize recovery within available insurance limits

Timeline: What Greenville Families Should Expect

First 48 Hours: Emergency response, evidence preservation, medical care
First Week: Initial investigation, witness interviews, university reporting
First Month: Comprehensive evidence gathering, demand letter preparation
Months 2-6: Negotiations with universities, nationals, insurers
Months 6-24: Possible litigation, discovery, mediation
Year 2+: Trial if no settlement reached

Critical Deadline: Texas generally has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, but exceptions exist. Don’t wait – evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, memories fade.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Greenville Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Weight changes from food restriction or stress
• Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
• Sudden secrecy about organization activities
• Withdrawal from family and non-member friends
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Defensiveness when asked about the organization
• Financial oddities (large unexplained expenses, maxed credit cards)
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
• Social media posts showing concerning activities

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

1. “How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
2. “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
3. “What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
4. “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
5. “Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
6. “Do you feel like you can leave if you want to?”
7. “Are they asking you to keep secrets?”

If Your Child Opens Up:

• Listen without judgment
• Prioritize their safety and medical care
• Document what they tell you (write it down)
• Preserve any evidence they show you
• Contact an experienced hazing attorney

For Students: Self-Protection & Safe Exit Strategies

Is This Hazing? Ask Yourself:

• Am I being forced or pressured to do something unsafe?
• Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
• Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Would my parents/university approve if they knew?
• Are only new members required to do this?
• Am I being told to keep secrets?

If You Answer YES to Any – It’s Likely Hazing

Safe Exit Strategies:

• Immediate danger: Call 911, get to safe location
• Wanting to quit: Send email/text to chapter president: “I am resigning my membership effective immediately”
• Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where they might pressure you
• If fearing retaliation: Report that fear to Dean of Students and police
• Document any threats (screenshots, recordings if legal in Texas)

Your Evidence Collection Checklist:

1. Screenshots of group chats with timestamps visible
2. Photos of injuries (multiple angles, include ruler for scale)
3. Voice memos/recordings (Texas is one-party consent state)
4. Save everything digital – don’t delete anything, even if embarrassing
5. Medical documentation – tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
6. Witness information – names/contacts of others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Letting Your Child Delete Evidence

• Why wrong: Looks like cover-up, can be obstruction of justice, makes case nearly impossible
• Right approach: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

• Why wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• Right approach: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms

• Why wrong: May waive right to sue; settlements often below case value
• Right approach: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting Details on Social Media

• Why wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
• Right approach: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

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

• Why wrong: They pressure, intimidate, extract damaging statements
• Right approach: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through lawyer

6. Waiting “To See How University Handles It”

• Why wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
• Right approach: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without Lawyer

• Why wrong: Recorded statements used against you; early settlements are lowball
• Right approach: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

FAQ: Answers for Greenville Families

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

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

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

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if harm wasn’t immediately known. In cases with cover-ups, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if hazing happened off-campus or at private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases occurred off-campus with substantial judgments.

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

“How much does a hazing lawyer cost?”
We work on contingency fee basis—no upfront costs, no fee unless we recover compensation for you. This makes justice accessible to Greenville families regardless of financial situation.

Why Attorney911 for Greenville Hazing Cases: Our Texas Advantage

When your Greenville family faces the trauma of hazing, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. From our Texas offices, we serve families throughout the state, including Greenville, Commerce, and all of Hunt County.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña):
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

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

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):

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

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results:

• Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
• Experience valuing lifetime care needs (brain injury, permanent disability)
• Economist collaboration for accurate damage calculations
• “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force real accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Dual Capability:

• 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
• “We see the full legal picture, not just one piece.”

Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine:

• Database of 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros
• Public records directory with EINs, addresses, organizational structures
• Pattern analysis showing national organization histories in Texas
• “We don’t start from zero. We already know the players.”

Spanish Language Services:

• Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
• Servicios legales en español disponibles
• Cultural understanding of Texas Hispanic community needs

How We Investigate Hazing Cases Differently

Digital Forensics Capability:

• Recovering deleted group chats and social media messages
• Preserving time-stamped digital evidence
• Tracing digital footprints across platforms

National Organization Pattern Analysis:

• Subpoenaing incident reports from national headquarters
• Analyzing prior warnings and inadequate responses
• Proving foreseeability based on organizational history

University Record Investigation:

• Public records requests for disciplinary files
• Analyzing Clery Act reports and safety disclosures
• Tracing institutional knowledge through internal communications

Expert Network:

• Medical experts for injury documentation and prognosis
• Economists for lifetime care cost calculations
• Greek life culture experts for context and standards
• Digital forensics specialists for evidence recovery
• Psychologists for trauma assessment and treatment planning

What Greenville Families Can Expect Working With Us

Your Free Consultation:

• We listen to your story without judgment
• Review any evidence you’ve preserved
• Explain legal options clearly and honestly
• Discuss realistic timelines and expectations
• Answer all your questions about process and costs
• No pressure to hire us on the spot

If You Choose to Work With Us:

• Immediate evidence preservation actions
• Comprehensive investigation launch
• Regular updates (at least every 2-3 weeks)
• Clear communication about case developments
• Strategic guidance at every decision point
• Aggressive advocacy while respecting your family’s privacy

Our Communication Commitment:

• Direct access to your attorneys (not passed to paralegals)
• Regular case updates as developments occur
• Prompt responses to your questions and concerns
• Transparency about case strengths and challenges
• Respect for your family’s emotional needs throughout the process

Call to Action for Greenville Families: You Don’t Have to Face This Alone

If you or your child experienced hazing at Texas A&M University-Commerce, University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Greenville, Commerce, and throughout Hunt County have the right to answers and accountability.

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 the best path forward for your family.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

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

Contact Information for Greenville Families

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

Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello)
Email: lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña) – Se habla Español

Website: https://attorney911.com

Texas Offices: Houston | Austin | Beaumont
Serving: Greenville, Commerce, Hunt County, and all of Texas

Spanish Language Services Available

Hablamos Español – Contacte a Lupe Peña a lupe@atty911.com para una consulta en español. Servicios legales completos disponibles en español.

Important Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

Whether you’re in Greenville or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

NEWS COVERAGE OF THE LEONEL BERMUDEZ / UH PI KAPPA PHI HAZING LAWSUIT

Click2Houston (KPRC 2): 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 Eyewitness News (KTRK): 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/

ATTORNEY911 EDUCATIONAL YOUTUBE VIDEOS

Using Your Cellphone to Document Evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

Texas Statutes of Limitations Explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

How Contingency Fees Work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

ATTORNEY911 MAIN WEBSITE

Main Website & Contact: https://attorney911.com

Wrongful Death Practice Area: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/

Criminal Defense Practice Area: 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/