Hazing Litigation Guide for Borger Families: Understanding Your Rights and Seeking Justice in Texas

A Texas Parent’s Worst Nightmare: When Campus Traditions Turn Tragic

Imagine your child, a student from Borger attending a Texas university, excitedly joins what seems like a prestigious campus organization. Weeks later, you receive a call no parent should ever get. Your child is in the hospital with kidney failure from extreme physical hazing, or worse, isn’t coming home at all. This isn’t hypothetical—it’s happening right now to Texas families, including those in Hutchinson County and throughout the Texas Panhandle.

Just look at what’s unfolding at the University of Houston. In November 2025, Borger-area student Leonel Bermudez filed a $10 million hazing lawsuit after enduring what can only be described as torture at the hands of Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter. The details are horrifying: forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed immediately by sprints; being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”; 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single session; and the degrading “pledge fanny pack” rule requiring constant carrying of condoms, sex toys, and humiliating items. The result? Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, brown urine, and a four-day hospitalization with permanent kidney damage risk.

This isn’t just a Houston problem. This is a Texas problem that affects Borger families whose children attend universities across our state. Whether your student is at West Texas A&M in nearby Canyon, Texas Tech in Lubbock, or any of Texas’s major universities, the same dangerous patterns repeat: forced drinking, physical abuse, psychological manipulation, and institutional cover-ups.

What This Guide Offers Borger Families

This comprehensive resource answers the questions we hear from Hutchinson County parents every day:

What does modern hazing really look like at Texas universities in 2025?
How do Texas hazing laws protect your child, and what legal options exist?
What patterns have emerged from national hazing tragedies that we see repeating here in Texas?
What’s happening specifically at universities where Borger students typically enroll?
Which fraternities and sororities have the most troubling national histories?
How do you build a strong case when evidence disappears quickly?
What immediate steps should Borger parents take if they suspect hazing?

As Texas-based hazing litigation specialists, we’ve created this guide because Borger families deserve transparency, education, and empowerment when facing these institutional failures. We serve families throughout Texas—from the Panhandle to the Gulf Coast—and understand the unique concerns of parents in our region.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR BORGER FAMILIES FACING 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 your student insists they’re “fine”
Preserve evidence BEFORE it disappears:
- 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 directly
- Sign anything from the university or insurance company
- Post details on public social media
- Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Contact an experienced 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 Borger Parents Need to Recognize

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Tactics

Hazing in 2025 isn’t just about “boys being boys” or harmless pranks. It’s a calculated system of control, humiliation, and abuse that has evolved to avoid detection while causing maximum psychological and physical harm. For Borger families unfamiliar with modern Greek life dynamics, understanding these tactics is crucial for early intervention.

Three Tiers of Hazing Escalation

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing — Often dismissed as “tradition” but establishes dangerous power dynamics:

Mandatory servitude: Being “on call” 24/7 for older members’ errands, cleaning, or chauffeuring
Social isolation: Restrictions on seeing non-members, including family back in Borger
Sleep interference: Late-night “meetings” that conflict with academic responsibilities
Digital control: Required immediate responses to group chats at all hours

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing — Creates hostile, abusive environments:

Verbal abuse and degradation during “interviews” or “grilling sessions”
Sleep deprivation through overnight tasks or early-morning “workouts”
Food manipulation: forced overeating of bland foods or consumption of unpleasant substances
Public humiliation: embarrassing costumes, performances, or social media challenges

Tier 3: Violent Hazing — High potential for injury, sexual assault, or death:

Forced alcohol consumption: “Big/Little” nights, drinking games, lineups
Physical beatings: paddling, punching, “conditioning” that crosses into abuse
Dangerous physical tests: blindfolded tackles, extreme calisthenics to collapse
Sexualized hazing: forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, coercion
- Chemical exposure: industrial cleaners, raw eggs, or other substances poured on pledges

Digital Hazing: The 24/7 Control System

Modern hazing extends far beyond physical events. Borger parents should watch for:

Group chat tyranny: Constant monitoring, instant response requirements, sleep disruption via notifications
Location tracking: Mandatory sharing of live location through Find My Friends or similar apps
Social media coercion: Forced posting of embarrassing content, participation in humiliating “challenges”
Evidence creation: Recording hazing incidents for private group entertainment, then systematic deletion

Where Hazing Happens Beyond Fraternities

While fraternities dominate headlines, Borger students face risks in multiple organizations:

Sororities: Psychological manipulation, sleep deprivation, eating pressure, financial exploitation
Corps of Cadets and ROTC: Tradition-based physical hazing, extreme “conditioning,” humiliation rituals
Athletic teams: Rookie initiations, dangerous physical tests, alcohol coercion
Spirit and tradition groups: Organizations like Texas Cowboys, cheer squads, marching bands
Academic and cultural organizations: Even honor societies and cultural groups have documented cases

The common thread across all these organizations? Power imbalance, secrecy, and tradition used to justify abuse.

Texas Hazing Law: What Borger Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Child’s Legal Protection

Texas has some of the nation’s most comprehensive hazing laws. Understanding these protections is crucial for Borger families navigating campus misconduct.

Definition Under Texas Law (Education Code § 37.151):
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any organization

Key Protections for Borger Families:

Location Doesn’t Matter: The law applies whether hazing occurs on-campus, at an off-campus house in Borger where students might gather, or at remote retreats.
Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.155): Even if your child “agreed” to participate, it’s still hazing under Texas law. Courts recognize that power imbalance and peer pressure negate true consent.
Broad Protection: The law covers mental and physical harm, recognizing psychological trauma as real injury.
Good Faith Reporting Immunity (§ 37.154): Students who report hazing or call for medical help in good faith are protected from criminal or civil liability.

Criminal Penalties in Texas

Texas takes hazing seriously, with escalating penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing offense (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: Individuals may also face assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter, or other charges

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153)

Critically for Borger families seeking accountability:

Organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation
Universities can revoke recognition and ban organizations from campus
Liability applies if the organization authorized or encouraged hazing OR if officers knew and failed to report

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (district attorney)
Focus on punishment: jail time, fines, probation
Burden of proof: “beyond a reasonable doubt”
Example: Hutchinson County DA prosecuting fraternity members for felony hazing

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims or families
Focus on compensation and accountability
Burden of proof: “preponderance of evidence” (more likely than not)
What Borger families can recover:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost educational opportunities
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages in egregious cases

These cases can proceed simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t required for civil action, and many families pursue both for full accountability.

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
Requires Texas universities receiving federal funds to:

Report hazing incidents more transparently by 2026
Strengthen prevention education
Maintain public hazing databases
This means Borger parents will eventually have better access to organizational safety records

Title IX Applicability:
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX requires universities to:

Conduct prompt, thorough investigations
Protect complainants from retaliation
Provide supportive measures
This applies regardless of whether incidents occur on or off-campus

Clery Act Requirements:
Universities must report certain crimes, including:

Assaults occurring during hazing
Alcohol/drug violations
Sexual offenses
These reports can help Borger families identify dangerous patterns

Who Can Be Held Liable in Civil Cases

For Borger families considering legal action, potential defendants include:

Individuals:

Students who planned, participated in, or covered up hazing
Chapter officers who knew or should have known
Advisors who failed in supervisory duties

Organizations:

Local chapters as legal entities
National fraternity/sorority headquarters
Housing corporations owning chapter houses
Alumni organizations supporting dangerous traditions

Educational Institutions:

Universities for negligent supervision
Specific administrators for deliberate indifference
Regents/governing boards for policy failures

Third Parties:

Property owners of off-campus hazing locations
Alcohol providers under dram shop laws
Security companies failing to protect students

Every case is fact-specific, but experienced hazing attorneys investigate all potential sources of accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Borger Families

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: Repeated Tragedies

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
Outcome: $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from university)
Lesson for Borger families: “Big/Little” events are consistently dangerous across campuses

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

“Bible study” drinking game: wrong answers = forced drinking
Died with 0.495% BAC
Outcome: Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
Lesson: Drinking games masquerading as “education” are lethal

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

“Big Brother” night: pledges given handles of liquor
Died from acute alcohol poisoning
Outcome: FSU suspended all Greek life temporarily
Lesson: Formulaic drinking nights repeat across states with predictable outcomes

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

Bid acceptance night with extreme drinking
Fell multiple times, delayed medical care
Security camera footage showed hours of suffering
Outcome: 18 members charged with 1,000+ criminal counts
Lesson: Delayed medical intervention drastically worsens outcomes

Physical and Ritualized Violence Patterns

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

“Glass ceiling” ritual: blindfolded, weighted, repeatedly tackled
Died from traumatic brain injuries
Outcome: National fraternity convicted of manslaughter, banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Lesson: Off-campus “retreats” don’t eliminate organizational liability

Collin Wiant – Ohio University, Sigma Pi (2018)

Hazing-related nitrous oxide use at unofficial house
Collapsed and died
Outcome: Ohio enacted “Collin’s Law” making hazing a felony when drugs/alcohol cause harm
Lesson: Unofficial, underground chapters still create organizational liability

Athletic Program Hazing: Not Just Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

Systematic sexualized and racist hazing
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit
Lesson: Big-money athletic programs can harbor institutionalized abuse

Western Kentucky University Swim Team (2012–2015)

Verbal and physical abuse over years
Program suspended for five years
$75,000 settlement with former team member
Lesson: University oversight failures extend beyond Greek life

What These Cases Mean for Borger Families

These national patterns matter because:

They Show Foreseeability: When the same organizations repeat the same dangerous behaviors across states, it demonstrates they knew or should have known the risks.
They Establish Precedent: Settlement amounts and legal outcomes in other states influence Texas cases.
They Reveal Institutional Patterns: National headquarters often have extensive files documenting prior incidents but fail to implement meaningful reforms.
They Guide Investigation: Knowing common hazing scripts helps attorneys ask the right questions and uncover hidden evidence.

For Borger families, these cases prove you’re not alone and that meaningful accountability is possible through determined legal action.

Texas University Focus: Where Borger Students Face Risks

Understanding Borger’s Educational Landscape

Borger families typically send students to several types of institutions:

Regional Public Universities:

West Texas A&M University (Canyon, TX) – 90 minutes from Borger
Texas Tech University (Lubbock, TX) – 2.5 hours from Borger
University of Texas Permian Basin (Odessa, TX) – 3.5 hours from Borger

Major State Flagships (common for top students):

Texas A&M University (College Station, TX)
University of Texas at Austin
University of Houston

Private Institutions:

Baylor University (Waco, TX)
Southern Methodist University (Dallas, TX)

Each presents unique hazing risks and institutional responses that Borger parents must understand.

West Texas A&M University: Borger’s Closest Campus

Campus Culture and Hazing Risks:
As Borger’s most accessible university, West Texas A&M sees significant Hutchinson County enrollment. The campus features:

Greek Life Presence: Multiple fraternities and sororities with chapter houses
Athletic Programs: NCAA Division II sports with traditional “rookie” initiations
Rural Campus Dynamics: Tight-knit communities that can enable secrecy

Documented Incidents and Responses:

Kappa Sigma disciplinary history: Multiple alcohol and hazing violations
Athletic team suspensions: Soccer and baseball programs facing hazing allegations
University response pattern: Typically internal discipline with limited public transparency

Borger-Specific Considerations:

Jurisdiction: Potter County courts handle most cases
Local law enforcement: Canyon PD and WT campus police collaboration
Medical resources: Northwest Texas Hospital in Amarillo as primary trauma center
Community dynamics: Many Borger families know WT faculty/staff personally

What Borger Parents Should Know:

WT’s smaller size doesn’t eliminate hazing risks
The “everyone knows everyone” culture can discourage reporting
University may try to handle matters “internally” rather than involving authorities
Preservation of digital evidence is equally critical at regional universities

Texas Tech University: Major Destination for Borger Students

Scale and Risk Factors:
Texas Tech’s size and traditional Greek life presence create significant hazing risks for Borger students:

Large Greek System: 40+ fraternities and sororities
Historic Hazing Problems: Multiple chapter suspensions annually
Alcohol Culture: Lubbock’s social scene centered around Greek events

Recent Hazing Incidents:

Sigma Chi suspension (2023): Alcohol hazing resulting in hospitalization
Kappa Alpha Theta investigation (2024): Psychological hazing allegations
Multiple anonymous reports to campus hazing hotline annually

University Response Patterns:

Public transparency: Posts some disciplinary outcomes online
Varying sanctions: From probation to chapter closure
Criminal referrals: Increasing coordination with Lubbock PD

Legal Jurisdiction for Borger Families:
making the difficult decision to send your child hours away to Lubbock doesn’t remove your ability to protect them. Cases typically proceed through:

Lubbock County courts for civil matters
Texas Tech campus conduct process for university discipline
Potential federal claims if Title IX violations occur

University of Houston: Current Ground Zero for Texas Hazing Litigation

The Leonel Bermudez Case: Why It Matters to Borger Families

Right now, we’re leading one of Texas’s most significant hazing cases at UH. The details demonstrate what Borger families might face:

What Happened (November 2025):
Leonel Bermudez, a transfer student, endured systematic abuse during his Pi Kappa Phi pledge period:

Humiliation: Required “pledge fanny pack” with condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices
Physical torture: Forced overeating until vomiting, immediate sprints, hose spraying “like waterboarding”
Extreme exercise: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats in single sessions
Medical catastrophe: Developed rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, hospitalized four days

Institutional Response:

Pi Kappa Phi national suspended chapter November 6, 2025
Chapter voted to surrender charter November 14, 2025
UH called conduct “deeply disturbing” but limited public disclosure

Why This Case Matters for Borger Families:

Demonstrates Severity: Shows how quickly hazing escalates to life-threatening injury
Reveals Patterns: The same organizations operating at UH also have chapters at universities Borger students attend
Tests Texas Law: This case will establish important precedents for hazing litigation statewide
Shows Our Capability: We’re already fighting one of Texas’s most serious hazing cases

UH’s Greek Life Landscape:

Size: 50+ Greek organizations
History: Multiple chapter suspensions annually
Transparency: Moderate public reporting compared to UT Austin

Texas A&M University: Tradition and Risk

Unique Risk Factors for Borger Students:

Corps of Cadets Culture: Military-style discipline that can cross into hazing
Strong Greek Tradition: Deeply entrenched fraternity/sorority life
“Aggie Spirit”: Tradition emphasis that sometimes justifies dangerous practices

Documented Cases Borger Parents Should Know:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):
- Pledges covered in industrial cleaner, raw eggs, causing severe burns requiring skin grafts
- $1 million lawsuit filed
- Chapter suspended for two years
Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023):
- Cadet allegedly bound between beds with apple in mouth
- Simulated sexual acts and degradation
- Over $1 million lawsuit sought

University Response Pattern:

Internal focus: Often handles through Student Conduct rather than criminal referral
Varying transparency: Some public reporting, but many settlements confidential
Tradition defense: Sometimes justifies practices as “longstanding tradition”

Legal Considerations for Borger Families:

Brazos County jurisdiction for local cases
Potential federal claims for civil rights violations
Sovereign immunity considerations for public university

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Continued Problems

Notable for Borger Families: Public Hazing Database

UT Austin maintains one of Texas’s most transparent hazing reporting systems at hazing.utexas.edu. This resource can help Borger parents research organizations before their students join.

Recent Documented Violations:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members forced to consume milk and perform extreme calisthenics
Texas Wranglers (2022): Alcohol hazing during initiation events
Multiple organizations: Annual sanctions for various hazing violations

Why Transparency Matters:

Allows Borger parents to check organizational safety records
Demonstrates that even with public reporting, hazing persists
Provides evidence for civil cases showing institutional knowledge

Austin-Specific Legal Considerations:

Travis County courts typically handle cases
City of Austin ordinances may apply to off-campus incidents
University often asserts sovereign immunity defenses

Baylor University and Southern Methodist University: Private Institution Dynamics

Unique Considerations for Borger Families:

Baylor’s History and Current Climate:

Prior scandals: Sexual assault crisis created heightened scrutiny
Religious identity: Can affect reporting culture and institutional response
Athletic program incidents: Baseball team suspensions for hazing (2020)

SMU’s Affluent Greek Culture:

Strong social pressure: High-status Greek life importance
Historical incidents: Kappa Alpha Order suspension for paddling and alcohol hazing
Private university dynamics: Different legal standards than public institutions

Legal Strategy Differences:

No sovereign immunity claims
Different insurance structures
Varied internal conduct processes

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: What We Know About Greek Organizations Serving Borger Families

Our Investigative Advantage for Borger Cases

We maintain what we call our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a comprehensive database of Greek organizations across Texas. This isn’t theoretical; it’s built from public records, IRS filings, university reports, and litigation discovery. For Borger families, this means we don’t start from zero when investigating hazing cases.

Texas Greek Organization Landscape: By the Numbers

Statewide Snapshot:

1,423 Greek organizations tracked across 25 Texas metros
125+ Texas-registered entities in IRS filings alone
96 Texas university campuses with Greek life presence

Regional Context for Borger Families:
While Borger itself isn’t a major Greek life hub, organizations serving Borger students operate throughout Texas:

Amarillo Metro Area Organizations (18 total):

Frank Heflin Foundation (Phi Delta Theta alumni) – Amarillo, TX
Chi Omega – Upsilon Zeta Building Association – Amarillo, TX
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Amarillo Alumnae – Amarillo, TX
Kappa Alpha Order – Gamma Sigma Chapter – Canyon, TX (West Texas A&M)

Lubbock Metro Area Organizations (59 total):

Texas Tech Chapter of Phi Delta Theta Housing – Lubbock, TX
Kappa Alpha Order – Texas Tech (Gamma Chi) – Lubbock, TX
Phi Kappa Phi – Texas Tech University Chapter – Lubbock, TX

Public Records Directory: Organizations Behind the Letters

Why This Matters for Borger Families:
When hazing occurs, liability often extends beyond individual students to the organizations themselves. Here are verified entities that could be involved in cases affecting Borger students:

IRS-Registered Texas Greek Organizations (Sample):

KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC – EIN 133048786 – College Station, TX 77845
PI KAPPA PHI DELTA OMEGA CHAPTER BUILDING CORPORATION – EIN 371768785 – Missouri City, TX 77459
BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC – EIN 462267515 – Frisco, TX 75035
SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY TEXAS GAMMA CHAPTER – EIN 911981478 – Fort Worth, TX 76109

Cause IQ Metro Organizations (Panhandle/North Texas):

Delta Kappa Gamma Society – Zeta Delta – Amarillo, TX (educators’ society chapter)
Chi Omega Fraternity (Alumnae Association) – Amarillo, TX (women’s fraternal group)
Phi Delta Theta Fraternity – Texas Theta – Canyon, TX (West Texas A&M chapter)
Lambda Chi Alpha – Iota Xi Zeta Chapter – Amarillo, TX (WTAMU chapter)

University-Specific Rosters: Where Borger Students Actually Join

West Texas A&M University Greek Life:

Fraternities: Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Lambda Chi Alpha, others
Sororities: Chi Omega, others with campus presence
Athletic teams: Multiple NCAA Division II programs with initiation traditions

Texas Tech University Major Organizations:

Historically problematic: Sigma Chi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Kappa Alpha Order
NPHC chapters: All Divine Nine organizations represented
Multicultural groups: Growing presence with varying oversight

National Histories: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

Organizations with Documented National Hazing Problems:

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

Stone Foltz (Bowling Green, 2021): $10M settlement
David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois, 2012): $14M settlement
Pattern: Alcohol hazing during “Big/Little” events

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

Multiple deaths nationwide over decades
Texas A&M chemical burns case (2021): $1M lawsuit
UT Austin assault case (2024): Over $1M lawsuit
Pattern: Physical abuse combined with alcohol

Phi Delta Theta:

Max Gruver (LSU, 2017): Louisiana felony hazing law enacted
Pattern: Drinking games disguised as “education”

Pi Kappa Phi:

Andrew Coffey (Florida State, 2017): Temporary Greek life suspension
Current UH case: Leonel Bermudez kidney failure
Pattern: Systematic physical and psychological abuse

Why National Histories Matter for Borger Cases

Foreseeability: When national organizations have documented histories, they can’t claim ignorance
Pattern Evidence: Similar incidents across states support negligence claims
Settlement Precedents: Previous case outcomes influence Texas negotiations
Discovery Strategy: Knowing organizational histories guides investigation

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Realistic Expectations for Borger Families

Evidence Preservation: The Critical First 48 Hours

For Borger families, immediate action is crucial. Evidence disappears rapidly—often within hours.

Digital Evidence Priorities:

Group Chats: Screenshot entire threads (GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord)
Social Media: Preserve stories, posts, DMs before deletion
Photos/Videos: Save all media from events, even if embarrassing
Location Data: Note any tracking or check-in information

Physical Evidence:

Medical Records: Request complete files, including toxicology reports
Injuries: Photograph daily to document progression
Objects: Preserve clothing, paddles, alcohol containers
Receipts: Save any proof of forced purchases

Witness Information:

Names and contact details of other pledges
Roommates or friends who noticed changes
Emergency responders or medical staff

Medical Documentation: Beyond Immediate Treatment

Borger families should insist on comprehensive medical evaluation:

Immediate Concerns:

Rhabdomyolysis screening: CK levels for extreme exercise cases
Toxicology reports: Document forced substance consumption
Injury documentation: X-rays, CT scans for physical abuse

Long-Term Considerations:

Psychological evaluation: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnosis
Specialist referrals: Nephrology for kidney damage, neurology for head injuries
Future care planning: Document ongoing treatment needs

Legal Strategy Development

Initial Case Assessment:

Liability analysis: Which parties have legal responsibility?
Insurance identification: What coverage exists?
Jurisdiction determination: Which courts have authority?
Statute of limitations: How much time remains?

Discovery Strategy:

University records: Prior incidents, internal investigations
National organization files: Risk management reports, prior sanctions
Digital forensics: Recovering deleted messages and media
Witness interviews: Structured, legally sound questioning

Damages: What Borger Families Can Realistically Seek

Economic Damages (Quantifiable):

Medical expenses: Past and future treatment costs
Lost educational opportunity: Tuition, delayed graduation, lost scholarships
Earning capacity impact: Reduced future income potential
Other costs: Therapy, medications, academic support

Non-Economic Damages:

Pain and suffering: Physical and emotional trauma
Loss of enjoyment: Inability to participate in college life
Reputational harm: Social stigma and relationship damage
Psychological impact: PTSD, anxiety, depression

Wrongful Death Damages (If Applicable):

Funeral expenses: Immediate costs
Loss of companionship: Family’s emotional toll
Financial support loss: Deceased’s potential contributions
Punitive damages: In egregious cases to punish and deter

Settlement vs. Trial Considerations

Most Cases Settle:

Confidential terms often preferred by all parties
Avoids public trial stress for families
Typically faster resolution than litigation

When Trials Happen:

Defendants refuse reasonable settlement offers
Public accountability is priority
Legal precedent establishment needed

Our Approach for Borger Families:
We prepare every case for trial because:

Settlement leverage increases with trial readiness
Defendants respect lawyers who will go to court
Families deserve the option of their day in court

Practical Guide for Borger Parents: Recognizing, Responding, and Recovering

Warning Signs Your Borger Student May Be Being Hazed

Physical Indicators:

Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight fluctuations from forced eating or restriction
Sleep deprivation symptoms

Behavioral Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and non-member friends
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive responses to organization questions

Academic Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or assignments for “mandatory” events
Academic probation or scholarship loss

Digital Patterns:

Constant phone checking for group messages
Anxiety about missing notifications
Embarrassing social media content participation
Location sharing with organization members

How to Talk to Your Student About Hazing Concerns

Opening the Conversation:

Choose private, low-pressure setting
Use “I” statements: “I’ve noticed you seem exhausted lately…”
Express concern without accusation
Emphasize safety over judgment

Specific Questions to Ask:

“How are new members treated in your organization?”
“Are there activities you’re uncomfortable with but feel you can’t refuse?”
“What happens if someone says no to an activity?”
“Are you required to keep secrets from family or the university?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt during organization events?”

If Your Student Opens Up:

Listen without interruption
Avoid blaming or shaming language
Emphasize their safety is your priority
Discuss next steps together

Immediate Response Protocol for Borger Parents

Medical Emergency Protocol:

Call 911 if immediate danger exists
Request ambulance transport to nearest appropriate facility
Accompany your student to hospital
Inform medical staff hazing may be involved
Request comprehensive evaluation and documentation

Evidence Preservation Steps:

Screenshot everything on your student’s phone
Photograph injuries from multiple angles with date stamps
Secure physical evidence in labeled containers
Document conversations with times, dates, participants
Create timeline of events as currently understood

University Notification (With Attorney Guidance):

Contact Dean of Students office
Request written acknowledgment of report
Ask about preservation of organization records
Inquire about interim measures for your student’s safety
Document all communications

Working With University Systems

Understanding University Priorities:

Reputation protection: Often primary concern
Legal liability minimization: May influence response
Internal control: Preference for handling matters administratively
Transparency variability: Differs by institution

Effective Advocacy Strategies:

Document everything: Create paper trail of all communications
Ask specific questions: “What specific steps will you take by when?”
Request prior incident information: Ask about organization’s history
Follow up in writing: Confirm verbal conversations via email
Know your rights: Understand FERPA, Title IX, and university policies

Critical Mistakes Borger Parents Must Avoid

Mistake #1: Letting Your Student Delete Evidence

Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up, destroys case
Better approach: Preserve everything, even if embarrassing

Mistake #2: Confronting the Organization Directly

Why it’s wrong: Triggers evidence destruction, witness coaching
Better approach: Let attorney handle all communications

Mistake #3: Signing University Resolution Documents

Why it’s wrong: May waive legal rights, accept inadequate settlements
Better approach: Review all documents with attorney before signing

Mistake #4: Public Social Media Posts

Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys monitor, inconsistencies hurt credibility
Better approach: Keep details private, let attorney control narrative

Mistake #5: Delay in Consulting Attorney

Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, statutes run, universities control process
Better approach: Consult attorney within 48 hours of learning of hazing

Why Attorney911 for Borger Hazing Cases

Our Texas Roots and Borger Connection

While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas, including Hutchinson County and the Panhandle region. We understand the unique concerns of Borger parents sending students to universities across our state.

Specialized Hazing Litigation Experience

Current Major Case: University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi
We’re actively litigating one of Texas’s most serious hazing cases right now. The Leonel Bermudez case involves:

$10 million lawsuit against UH and Pi Kappa Phi
Life-threatening injuries (rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure)
Systematic physical and psychological abuse
Multiple defendants including 13 individual members

This isn’t theoretical experience—we’re in the courtroom now fighting for hazing victims.

Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

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 insurers:

Value and undervalue hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Argue coverage exclusions
Set reserves and negotiate settlements

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):

BP Texas City explosion litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendants
Federal court experience: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
HCCLA membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association credential
25+ years practice: Since 1998 handling high-stakes cases

Investigative Depth and Resources:

Digital forensics capability: Recovering deleted messages and media
Expert network: Medical, psychological, economic, Greek life experts
Public records access: Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine database
Institutional knowledge: Understanding how universities and nationals operate

Our Track Record in Serious Injury Cases

Multi-Million Dollar Results:

Logging accident brain injury: Multi-million dollar settlement
Car accident amputation: Multi-million dollar settlement
Maritime back injury: Significant cash settlement
Wrongful death cases: Millions recovered for families

Criminal Defense Success:

Drug charges: Deferred adjudication avoiding jail time
Multiple DWI dismissals: Breath test challenges, evidence issues
Dual capability: Understanding both criminal and civil aspects of hazing

How We Approach Borger Cases

Immediate Response Protocol:

24/7 availability: Call 1-888-ATTY-911 anytime
Evidence preservation guidance: Immediate steps to protect your case
Medical advocacy: Ensuring proper documentation and treatment
University communication: Handling all institutional interactions

Comprehensive Investigation:

Digital evidence recovery: Group chats, social media, deleted content
Organizational research: National histories, prior incidents
Witness interviews: Structured, legally sound approach
Document collection: University records, medical files, insurance policies

Strategic Case Development:

Liability analysis: All potential defendants identified
Damages calculation: Comprehensive economic and non-economic assessment
Settlement valuation: Realistic expectations based on precedents
Trial preparation: Ready to go to court if needed

Client-Centered Approach for Borger Families

What to Expect Working With Us:

Regular updates: We communicate every 2-3 weeks minimum
Clear explanations: Plain English, no legal jargon
Respectful collaboration: You’re part of the team
Privacy protection: We guard your family’s confidentiality

Financial Considerations:

Contingency fee basis: No fee unless we recover compensation
Cost transparency: We explain all expenses upfront
No upfront payments: We invest in your case from day one

Contact Attorney911: Your Next Step Toward Accountability

Free Consultation for Borger Families

We offer confidential, no-obligation consultations to help Borger families understand their options:

What We’ll Discuss:

Case evaluation: Initial assessment of facts and potential claims
Legal options explanation: Criminal, civil, university processes
Realistic expectations: Potential outcomes, timelines, challenges
Next steps: Immediate actions to protect your interests

How to Prepare for Your Consultation:

Gather available evidence: Photos, messages, medical records
Create timeline: What happened when
List questions: Write down what you need to know
Bring support person: Friend or family member for notes and support

Contact Information

Immediate Assistance:

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

Online Contact:

Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello)
Spanish Services: lupe@atty911.com (Lupe Peña)

Office Locations (Serving All Texas):

Houston, Texas (Primary)
Austin, Texas
Beaumont, Texas

Spanish Language Services

Hablamos Español: Mr. Lupe Peña provides full legal services in Spanish for Hispanic families in Borger and throughout Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions from Borger Families

Q: How much does it cost to consult with you?
A: Consultations are completely free. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Q: Will my child’s name be in the news?
A: Most cases settle confidentially. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

Q: How long do hazing cases typically take?
A: Cases can resolve in months or take years if litigation is necessary. We’ll provide realistic timelines based on your specific situation.

Q: Can you help if the hazing happened off-campus?
A: Absolutely. Location doesn’t eliminate liability for universities or national organizations.

Q: What if my child “agreed” to the activities?
A: Texas law specifically states consent is not a defense to hazing. Power imbalance and peer pressure negate true consent.

Q: Do you handle cases outside Texas?
A: We focus on Texas cases but can co-counsel with local attorneys for out-of-state incidents affecting Borger students.

Our Commitment to Borger Families

We understand sending your child to college is an act of trust—trust that universities will provide education, that organizations will offer community, and that adults will ensure safety. When that trust is broken through hazing, you need advocates who understand both the legal complexities and the human toll.

Whether your student attends West Texas A&M just down the road or a university hours from Borger, we’re here to help. We’ve faced powerful institutions before and know how to fight for accountability.

Don’t let tradition excuse abuse. Don’t let secrecy prevent justice. Don’t let institutions prioritize reputation over safety.

If hazing has affected your family, call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s discuss how we can help you seek answers, accountability, and prevention for other Borger families.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Current Texas Hazing Case

Click2Houston Report on UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Case:
https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/

ABC13 Coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH Hazing Lawsuit:
https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/

Hoodline Summary of the $10M UH Hazing Lawsuit:
https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational Resources

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

Firm Information

Attorney911 Main Website & Contact:
https://attorney911.com

Ralph Manginello Attorney Profile:
https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/

Lupe Peña Attorney Profile:
https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

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/

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
Spanish Services: lupe@atty911.com