The Complete Guide to Hazing in Texas: What Keene Families Need to Know About Campus Abuse, Lawsuits, and Accountability

A Nightmare in Johnson County: When Your Child’s College Dreams Turn Dangerous

Imagine receiving a call in the middle of the night. Your child, a student at a Texas university, is in the emergency room. They’re suffering from acute kidney failure after being forced through extreme physical hazing. Their urine is brown—a sign of severe muscle breakdown called rhabdomyolysis. They were made to perform hundreds of push-ups and squats, forced to consume milk and hot dogs until vomiting, then immediately forced to sprint. They were sprayed in the face with a hose “like waterboarding” and threatened with worse. This isn’t a hypothetical scenario. This is what happened to Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter in fall 2025—a case our firm, Attorney911, is actively litigating in a $10 million lawsuit against the university, the national fraternity, and individual members.

For families in Keene, Johnson County, and across Texas, this reality hits close to home. Whether your child attends nearby Southwestern Adventist University right here in Keene or has ventured to major campuses like Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, or SMU, the risk of hazing exists in fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, athletic teams, and spirit groups. The distance from Keene to Houston is about 200 miles, but institutional failure knows no geographic boundaries.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for Keene families and Texas parents who need to understand:

• What modern hazing really looks like in 2025 (beyond the stereotypes)
• Texas hazing laws and your family’s legal rights
• How national hazing patterns repeat at Texas universities
• What’s happening at campuses where Keene students enroll
• How to protect your child and pursue accountability

We are The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911 (the Legal Emergency Lawyers™). We represent hazing victims and families across Texas, including those from Johnson County and the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area. Right now, we’re leading the litigation in the Leonel Bermudez case against University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi—proof that we’re actively fighting these battles today.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like for Keene Students

The Modern Definition That Every Keene Parent Needs

Hazing in 2025 is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. For Keene families sending students to Texas universities, understanding that “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal is crucial. The power imbalance between new members and established members creates coercion that Texas law recognizes.

The Five Categories of Modern Hazing

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the deadliest form. It includes forced chugging competitions, “lineup” drinking games, “Big/Little” nights with handles of liquor, and games like “Bible study” where wrong answers mean drinking. In the Bermudez case at UH, pledges were forced to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, then immediately forced to sprint.

2. Physical Hazing
This goes beyond “hard workouts” to dangerous physical abuse:

• Extreme calisthenics: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats (as in Bermudez’s Nov 3 workout)
• “Smokings” or punishment exercises until collapse
• Paddling and beatings (common in some NPHC traditions despite national prohibitions)
• Sleep deprivation with 3 AM wake-up calls
• Food/water restriction
• Exposure to extreme temperatures (Bermudez was forced into cold weather in only underwear)

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts (“elephant walk,” “roasted pig” positions)
• Degrading costumes and public humiliation
• Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones

4. Psychological Hazing

• Verbal abuse and constant degradation
• Social isolation from non-members
• “Grilling” sessions where members tear down pledges
• Forced confessions or compromising revelations

5. Digital/Online Hazing
This is where hazing has evolved most dramatically:

• 24/7 group chat monitoring (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord)
• Required instant responses at all hours
  – Geo-tracking demands (sharing location via Find My Friends)
• Social media humiliation (forced TikTok challenges, Instagram dares)
• Recording hazing acts for private sharing

Where Hazing Happens at Texas Universities

Keene families should know hazing extends beyond stereotypical “frat parties”:

Greek Life Organizations:

• Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternities
• Panhellenic sororities
• National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC – Divine Nine)
• Multicultural Greek Council organizations

Military & Leadership Programs:

• Corps of Cadets (especially at Texas A&M)
• ROTC programs
• Leadership societies

Athletic Teams:

• Varsity sports (football, basketball, baseball)
• Cheer and spirit squads
• Club and intramural teams

Performance & Tradition Groups:

• Marching bands
• Spirit organizations (like Texas Cowboys at UT)
• A cappella groups
• Debate and academic teams

The Common Thread: Social status, tradition, and secrecy keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal. The psychology is simple: “We went through it, so you should too.”

Texas Hazing Law & Liability Framework: What Johnson County Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Legal Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that protect students at both public and private institutions. For Keene families, understanding these laws is crucial whether your child is at a local college or a major university hours away.

§ 37.151: The Definition That Covers It All
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

Key points for Keene parents:

• Location doesn’t matter—on-campus, off-campus at an Airbnb, or at a remote retreat
• Mental OR physical harm qualifies
• “Reckless” is enough—they don’t need malicious intent
• “Consent is not a defense” (§ 37.155)—even if your child agreed, it’s still hazing

§ 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 crimes:

• Failing to report hazing if you’re a member/officer who knew
• Retaliating against someone who reports

§ 37.153: Organizational Liability
Fraternities, sororities, clubs, and teams can be criminally prosecuted if:

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

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

§ 37.154: Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting
A person who in good faith reports hazing to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability. This is critical for bystanders and victims who fear getting in trouble.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Two Paths to Accountability

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State)

• Prosecutor files charges (DA in Johnson County or county where incident occurred)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Example: In the Pi Delta Psi case (Baruch College), national fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter

Civil Cases (Brought by Victims/Families)

• Victims or surviving families file lawsuit
• Aim: Monetary compensation and accountability
• Focus: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
• No criminal conviction required to pursue civil case

Both can run simultaneously. In fact, civil discovery often uncovers evidence that strengthens criminal cases, and vice versa.

Federal Law Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)

• Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
• Strengthens hazing education and prevention
• Maintains public hazing data (phased in by around 2026)
• Applies to all Texas universities receiving federal funds

Title IX

• Triggered when hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility
• Creates additional institutional obligations
• Can waive sovereign immunity for public universities

Clery Act

• Requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics
• Hazing incidents often overlap with assault or alcohol/drug crimes
• Failure to report can lead to federal fines

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

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

1. Individual Students

• Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
• Including chapter president, pledgemaster, risk manager (all named in Bermudez suit)

2. Local Chapter/Organization

• The fraternity/sorority or club itself if incorporated
• Chapter housing corporations (like Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc, EIN 462267515, Frisco, TX)
• Alumni associations supporting the chapter

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters

• Set policies, receive dues, supervise chapters
• Liability hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents
• Example: Pi Kappa Phi national was sued in Bermudez case despite suspending chapter

4. University or Governing Board

• Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity but exceptions exist
• Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections
• Key questions: Prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference

5. Third Parties

• Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces
• Bars or alcohol providers (dram shop liability)
• Security companies or event organizers
• Alumni advisors who knew or should have known

6. Insurance Companies

• Fraternity/university insurers often fight coverage
• Our firm’s insider knowledge (Mr. Lupe Peña’s defense background) is critical here

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Precedents Mean for Keene Families

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern: The Deadliest Script

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

• Bid-acceptance event with forced drinking
• Severe falls captured on chapter cameras; 12-hour delay before medical help
• 18 fraternity members charged with over 1,000 criminal counts
• Takeaway for Keene families: Delay in calling 911 and culture of silence are legally devastating patterns we see repeated

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• “Bible study” drinking game—wrong answers = forced drinking
• Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
• Led to Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony in Louisiana
• $6.1 million verdict for family
• Takeaway: Legislative change follows tragedy—Texas needs similar urgency

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

• Forced to drink nearly entire bottle of whiskey
• $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
• Chapter president ordered to pay $6.5 million personally
• Takeaway: Both organizations AND individuals face massive liability

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

• “Big Brother Night” with handles of hard liquor
• Criminal hazing charges against members
• FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
• Takeaway: The same national fraternity (Pi Kappa Phi) now faces our lawsuit in Texas

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

• Blindfolded, weighted backpack, repeatedly tackled in “glass ceiling” ritual
• Fatal head injuries; help delayed
• National fraternity banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
• Takeaway: Off-campus “retreats” are especially dangerous hiding spots

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

• Forced excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”
• Severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
• Settlements with 22 defendants
• Takeaway: Non-fatal injuries can mean lifetime care costing millions

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

• Sexualized, racist hacing within football program
• Multiple lawsuits against university
• Head coach fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
• Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to big-money athletics

Texas A&M Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023)

• Cadet alleged being bound between beds with apple in mouth
• Degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts
• Sought over $1 million in damages
• Takeaway: Military-style programs have unique hazing risks

What These National Cases Mean for Johnson County Families

1. Patterns repeat: The same scripts (Big/Little nights, forced drinking games, extreme workouts) appear across states and organizations
2. Cover-ups are predictable: Delayed medical care, destroyed evidence, coached witnesses
3. Settlements are substantial: $1M–$14M range for deaths, multi-million for catastrophic injuries
4. Individual liability exists: Officers can be sued personally and face massive judgments
5. Legislative change follows tragedy: Pennsylvania’s Piazza Law, Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, Ohio’s Collin’s Law

For Keene families, these national precedents create powerful leverage in Texas cases. When we can show that the same national organization had prior incidents elsewhere, it proves foreseeability—they knew or should have known the risks.

Texas University Focus: Where Keene Students Enroll and What Happens There

Keene families send students to universities across Texas. Whether it’s nearby Southwestern Adventist University here in Johnson County or major campuses hours away, understanding each campus’s hazing landscape is critical.

University of Houston: The Active Case in Our Backyard

Relevance to Keene Families: While UH is approximately 200 miles from Keene, many Johnson County students attend, and the legal precedents established here affect all Texas hazing cases.

Campus Snapshot:

• Large urban campus with 47,000+ students
• Active Greek life with 50+ fraternities and sororities
• Mix of commuter and residential students
• Located in Harris County (different jurisdiction than Johnson County but same Texas law)

The Bermudez Case: Our Active Litigation
Right now, our firm represents Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against:

• University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents
• Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
• Beta Nu housing corporation
• 13 individual fraternity leaders/members

Hazing Details (from Click2Houston and ABC13 coverage):

• “Pledge fanny pack” rule with condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices
• Forced dress codes, overnight chauffeuring, weekly interviews
• Physical abuse: sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, “save-your-brother” drills
• Cold-weather exposure in underwear
• Lying in vomit-soaked grass
• Hose spraying “similar to waterboarding”
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting
• Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threat
• Medical outcome: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, brown urine, 4-day hospitalization

Institutional Response:

• Nov 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspends Beta Nu chapter
• Nov 14, 2025: Chapter votes to surrender charter
• UH calls conduct “deeply disturbing,” promises disciplinary measures and cooperation with law enforcement

UH’s Greek Life Landscape (from Official Rosters):

• Interfraternity Council (IFC): Alpha Epsilon Pi, Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Delta Upsilon, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Theta Chi, and others
• Panhellenic Council: Alpha Chi Omega, Chi Omega, Delta Gamma, Delta Zeta, Phi Mu, Zeta Tau Alpha
• NPHC (Divine Nine): All nine organizations present
• Multicultural Greek Council: Multiple organizations

How a UH Hazing Case Proceeds for Keene Families:

• Initial reports to UHPD or Houston Police Department
• Potential criminal charges filed in Harris County
• Civil suits filed in Harris County courts (or federal court for Title IX claims)
• Defendants: Individuals, chapter, national, university, property owners
• Key evidence: Group chats, medical records, prior incident reports

What UH Students & Keene Parents Should Do:

1. Report immediately: Dean of Students Office, UHPD, online reporting forms
2. Document everything: Screenshot GroupMe chats before deletion
3. Medical attention: Go to ER, say “I was hazed” for proper documentation
4. Legal consultation: Contact us within 48 hours before evidence disappears
5. Do not confront: Let attorneys handle communication with university/fraternity

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

Relevance to Keene Families: Many Johnson County students attend A&M, drawn by academic reputation and tradition. The Corps of Cadets presents unique hazing risks.

Campus Snapshot:

• 74,000+ students in College Station
• Strong Greek life with 60+ fraternities/sororities
• Corps of Cadets with 2,500+ members
• Tradition-heavy culture

Documented Hazing Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021)

• Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner
• Severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
• Pledges sued for $1 million
• Fraternity suspended for two years
• SAE national has pattern of hazing deaths nationwide

Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023)

• Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts
• “Roasted pig” position—bound between beds with apple in mouth
• Sought over $1 million in damages
• A&M stated it handled matter under its rules

Other A&M Hazing Reports:

• Multiple fraternity suspensions for alcohol hazing
• Sorority disciplinary actions for psychological hazing
• Corps investigations for tradition violations

A&M’s Greek Life Landscape:

• Panhellenic: Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, Zeta Tau Alpha, and others
• IFC: Alpha Gamma Rho, Alpha Sigma Phi, Alpha Tau Omega, Beta Theta Pi, Delta Tau Delta, Kappa Alpha Order, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Phi Gamma Delta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Theta Chi
• NPHC: All nine organizations
• Corps of Cadets: Military-style training with hazing risks

How an A&M Hazing Case Proceeds:

• Reports to University Police Department or College Station PD
• Corps cases handled through Commandant’s Office AND student conduct
• Civil suits filed in Brazos County
• Complex insurance coverage issues with Corps activities

What A&M Students & Keene Parents Should Do:

1. Understand dual systems: Greek life AND Corps have separate reporting
2. Corps-specific risks: “Traditional” discipline often crosses into hazing
3. Medical documentation: Texas A&M Health has treated hazing injuries
4. Witness cooperation: Other cadets/pledges often fear retaliation but can be protected
5. Legal strategy: Corps cases involve unique military-style command structure issues

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Repeated Violations

Relevance to Keene Families: UT’s public hazing log provides unprecedented transparency that benefits all Texas families.

Campus Snapshot:

• 52,000+ students in Austin
• 60+ fraternities and sororities
• Public hazing violations log (hazing.utexas.edu)
• Located in Travis County

UT’s Public Hazing Log Highlights:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023)

• New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
• Found to be hazing
• Chapter placed on probation with hazing-prevention education required

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024)

• Australian exchange student alleged assault at party
• Injuries: dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
• Student sued SAE chapter for over $1 million
• Chapter already under suspension for prior violations

Texas Wranglers (Spirit Group)

• Sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing
• Highlights that non-Greek groups haze too

Other Violations:

• Multiple fraternities sanctioned for alcohol hazing
• Sororities disciplined for psychological hazing
• Tradition clubs penalized for “initiation” activities

UT’s Greek Life Landscape:

• Panhellenic: Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, Zeta Tau Alpha
• IFC: Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Tau Kappa Epsilon
• NPHC: Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Phi Beta, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma
• Texas Asian Pan-Hellenic Council: alpha Kappa Delta Phi, Lambda Phi Epsilon, others

How a UT Hazing Case Proceeds:

• UTPD or Austin Police Department involvement
• Civil suits in Travis County courts
• Prior violations from public log provide powerful pattern evidence
• Title IX office involvement if sexualized hazing

What UT Students & Keene Parents Should Do:

1. Check the public log: See if organization has prior violations
2. Use UT’s transparency: Request records of prior incidents
3. Document immediately: Austin hospitals have treated hazing injuries
4. Consider Title IX: Sexualized hazing triggers additional protections
5. Leverage pattern evidence: Multiple violations strengthen negligence claims

Southern Methodist University: Private University Challenges

Relevance to Keene Families: SMU’s private status affects transparency and legal strategy.

Campus Snapshot:

• 12,000+ students in Dallas
• Affluent student body
• Strong Greek presence
• Private university status

Documented Hazing Incidents:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017)

• New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, sleep deprived
• Chapter suspended
• Restrictions on recruiting until 2021

Other SMU Hazing Reports:

• Multiple fraternity suspensions for alcohol violations
• Sorority disciplinary actions
• Limited public disclosure due to private status

SMU’s Greek Life Landscape:

• Panhellenic: Alpha Chi Omega, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Gamma Phi Beta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi
• IFC: Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Alpha Order, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi
• NPHC: All nine organizations (activation varies)
• Multicultural Greek Council: Various organizations

How an SMU Hazing Case Proceeds:

• Dallas Police Department involvement for off-campus incidents
• Civil suits in Dallas County courts
• DiscoverY necessary to obtain internal reports (not publicly posted)
• Different insurance carriers than public universities

What SMU Students & Keene Parents Should Do:

1. Expect less transparency: Private universities disclose less publicly
2. Off-campus focus: Much SMU Greek life occurs in private homes
3. Dallas jurisdiction: Dallas PD and DA handle criminal aspects
4. Insurance complexity: Private carrier strategies differ from public universities
5. Discovery crucial: Must subpoena internal records that public schools post

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Historical Scrutiny

Relevance to Keene Families: Baylor’s history with institutional scandals affects how they handle hazing reports.

Campus Snapshot:

• 20,000+ students in Waco
• Baptist affiliation
• History of football/Title IX scandal
• Greek life strong despite religious identity

Documented Hazing Incidents:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020)

• 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
• Suspensions staggered over early season
• University statement about “zero tolerance”

Other Baylor Hazing Reports:

• Fraternity disciplinary actions
• Sorority violations
• Limited public reporting

Baylor’s Greek Life Landscape:

• Panhellenic: Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, Zeta Tau Alpha
• IFC: Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Chi
• NPHC: Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alpha Phi Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta
• Multicultural Greek Council: Various organizations

How a Baylor Hazing Case Proceeds:

• Waco Police Department involvement
• Civil suits in McLennan County courts
• Title IX implications given Baylor’s history
• Religious affiliation affects public relations strategy

What Baylor Students & Keene Parents Should Do:

1. Consider institutional history: Baylor’s past scandals affect current response
2. Title IX leverage: Sexualized hazing triggers particular sensitivity
3. Religious context: May affect settlement negotiations
4. Waco jurisdiction: Different court dynamics than larger counties
5. Pattern evidence: Despite “zero tolerance” statements, violations continue

Southwestern Adventist University: The Local Campus in Keene

Relevance to Keene Families: Your local university has Greek-life affiliated organizations too.

Campus Snapshot:

• 800+ students right here in Keene, Johnson County
• Seventh-day Adventist affiliation
• Limited traditional Greek life but honor societies and service organizations
• Local jurisdiction matters for legal proceedings

Honor Societies and Service Organizations:

• Phi Kappa Phi honor society chapters exist at Texas universities
• Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity has Texas chapters
• Even non-social groups can haze during initiation

Local Legal Considerations:

• Johnson County Sheriff’s Office or Keene PD jurisdiction
• Local courts if incident occurs in Keene
• Different dynamics than major university cases
• Still governed by Texas Education Code Chapter 37

What Keene Parents Should Know About Local Campus:

1. Small doesn’t mean safe: Hazing occurs at small colleges too
2. Honor societies haze: Academic groups have initiation rituals
3. Local jurisdiction: Johnson County courts handle cases here
4. Same Texas laws apply: Education Code Chapter 37 covers all Texas schools
5. Our firm serves locally: We represent Johnson County families too

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories That Follow Keene Students to Campus

Why National Histories Matter for Johnson County Families

When your child joins a fraternity or sorority at a Texas university, they’re not just joining a local club—they’re connecting to a national organization with decades of history, including hazing incidents. These national patterns create legal leverage for Texas families.

The Foreseeability Principle:
If a national organization had hazing incidents in Ohio, Pennsylvania, or Louisiana, they knew or should have known the risks when their Texas chapter engaged in similar conduct. This strengthens negligence claims dramatically.

National Organizations Present at Texas Universities with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

• National History: Stone Foltz death (BGSU, $10M settlement), David Bogenberger death (NIU, $14M settlement)
• Texas Presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor
• Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing, forced drinking games
• Legal Significance: National had prior warnings about alcohol hazing pattern

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

• National History: Multiple hazing deaths nationwide, traumatic brain injury lawsuit (Alabama), chemical burns case (Texas A&M)
• Texas Presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU
• Pattern: Alcohol hazing, physical abuse, chemical injuries
• Legal Significance: Known as “the deadliest fraternity” with repeated violations

Pi Kappa Phi

• National History: Andrew Coffey death (FSU), now Bermudez case (UH, our active litigation)
• Texas Presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT
• Pattern: Big Brother nights, forced drinking, extreme physical hazing
• Legal Significance: Active lawsuit shows ongoing pattern

Phi Delta Theta

• National History: Max Gruver death (LSU, $6.1M verdict), led to Max Gruver Act
• Texas Presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor
• Pattern: “Bible study” drinking games, alcohol poisoning
• Legal Significance: Felony legislation resulted from their conduct

Kappa Alpha Order

• National History: Multiple hazing suspensions including SMU chapter
• Texas Presence: Texas A&M, UT, SMU
• Pattern: Paddling, forced drinking, Southern tradition rituals
• Legal Significance: Repeated violations despite “gentlemanly” image

Beta Theta Pi

• National History: Timothy Piazza death (Penn State), led to Piazza Law
• Texas Presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor
• Pattern: Bid acceptance drinking, delayed medical care
• Legal Significance: Security camera evidence crucial in prosecution

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: How We Track Organizational Liability

Our firm maintains what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a comprehensive database of Greek organizations across Texas. For Keene families, this means we already know the organizational landscape before we even begin your case.

IRS B83 Texas Greek Organizations (125+ Entities)
These are tax-exempt organizations the IRS classifies as Greek organizations with Texas addresses. Examples relevant to Dallas-Fort Worth metro (Keene’s region):

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Frisco TX Alumni Chapter

• EIN 920575785
• 5729 Lebanon Rd Ste 144597, Frisco, TX 75034
• IRS B83 public filing

Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc

• EIN 462267515
• 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035
• IRS B83 public filing (same fraternity as Bermudez case)

Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc

• EIN 741380362
• PO Box 470061, Fort Worth, TX 76147
• IRS B83 public filing

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc – Sigma Gamma Chapter

• EIN 392352450
• PO Box 540026, Houston, TX 77254
• IRS B83 public filing

Sigma Phi Lambda Inc (Multiple Chapters)

• EIN 201237505, 202203769, 260805977, 320217610, 460766525, 814575228, 823971493, 833053639, 874252223, 900657756
• 4251 FM 2181 Ste 230 PMB 480, Corinth, TX 76210
• IRS B83 public filings

Cause IQ Metro Organizations – Dallas-Fort Worth Area
The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro (which includes Johnson County) has 510 Greek-related organizations according to Cause IQ data. Examples:

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity – Fort Worth, TX
Delta Delta Delta (Tri Delta) – Arlington, TX area
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation – Fort Worth, TX
Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity – Gamma Psi Chapter – Fort Worth, TX (TCU)
Sigma Nu Fraternity – Lambda Epsilon Chapter – Fort Worth, TX (TCU)

What This Data Means for Keene Families:

1. We know the players: Before you even call, we likely have the EIN and registration details for the organization involved
2. Insurance tracing: These registrations help identify insurance coverage
3. National connections: We can trace local chapters to their national headquarters
4. Prior incidents: Our database includes historical violations at Texas chapters

How National Patterns Create Legal Liability in Texas Cases

Negligent Supervision Claims:
When nationals receive dues, provide materials, and claim oversight but fail to prevent known hazing patterns, they can be liable for negligent supervision.

Punitive Damage Arguments:
If nationals knew about prior incidents (at other chapters or nationally) but failed to take meaningful action, punitive damages become possible.

Insurance Coverage Fights:
Nationals often have insurance policies that local chapters don’t. Proving national involvement can access deeper pockets.

Discovery Advantage:
We subpoena national headquarters for prior incident reports, risk management files, and internal communications about hazing.

For the Bermudez case against Pi Kappa Phi, we’re using these exact strategies: showing national knew about Big/Little drinking risks from the Andrew Coffey death but failed to prevent similar conduct at UH.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy for Keene Families

The Evidence That Wins Cases in 2025

Digital Communications (THE MOST CRITICAL)

• Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack
• Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook Messenger
• Recovery possible: Digital forensics can often recover deleted messages
• Our video on evidence preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

Photos & Videos

• Content filmed during hazing (often shared in group chats)
• Security camera footage from houses/venues
• Doorbell camera recordings
• Injuries documented over time

Internal Organization Documents

• Pledge manuals and “tradition” documents
• Emails/texts planning events
• National policies and training materials
• Risk management reports

University Records

• Prior conduct files and disciplinary history
• Campus police incident reports
• Clery Act reports
• Internal emails about the organization

Medical & Psychological Records

• ER/hospital records (must say “hazing” in documentation)
• Toxicology reports and lab results
• Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
• Long-term treatment plans

Witness Testimony

• Other pledges and new members
• Former members who quit
• Roommates and bystanders
• Advisors and coaches

Damages: What Keene Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable)

• Medical expenses: Past and future (ER, hospitalization, therapy, medications)
• Lost earnings: Missed work, delayed graduation, reduced earning capacity
• Educational costs: Lost scholarships, transfer expenses, additional tuition

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Reputational harm

Wrongful Death Damages (for families)

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

Punitive Damages (when conduct is egregious)

• To punish reckless or intentional conduct
• To deter future hazing
• Available under certain Texas law exceptions

Case Examples:

• Stone Foltz: $10M total settlement
• Max Gruver: $6.1M verdict
• Chad Meredith: $12.6M verdict
• Sigma Chi College of Charleston: $10M+ settlement

The Role of Insurance and Defense Strategies

Insurance Complexities:

• Fraternities often have multiple insurance policies (national, local, alumni)
• Universities have liability coverage
• Exclusion arguments: Insurers often claim hazing is “intentional” and excluded
• Our advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña’s defense background means we know insurance tactics

Common Defense Strategies We Overcome:

1. “They consented”: Texas law §37.155 says consent isn’t a defense
2. “Rogue chapter”: We show national knew or should have known
3. “Off-campus location”: Liability doesn’t depend on property ownership
4. “We have anti-hazing policies”: We show they weren’t enforced
5. “University immunity”: Exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations

Our Investigation Process:

1. Immediate evidence preservation (digital forensics, witness interviews)
2. Organizational mapping (using our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine)
3. Prior incident research (national patterns, local violations)
4. Expert consultation (medical, psychological, economic)
5. Demand package preparation
6. Settlement negotiation or litigation

Practical Guides & FAQs: Immediate Help for Keene Families

For Keene Parents: Warning Signs and Action Steps

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Weight changes (from food restriction or stress)
• Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
• Secretive about fraternity/sorority activities
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, withdrawal
• Constant phone monitoring for group chats
• Financial stress from unexpected “fines” or purchases
• Academic decline

How to Talk to Your Child:

1. Ask open questions: “How are things with your fraternity/sorority?”
2. Listen without judgment: They may fear disappointing you
3. Emphasize safety: “Your health matters more than any organization”
4. Offer support: “We’ll help you through this, no matter what”

If Your Child Is Hurt:

1. Medical care first: Go to ER immediately
2. Document everything: Photos, screenshots, notes
3. Preserve evidence: Don’t wash clothing, save objects
4. Contact us: Call 1-888-ATTY-911 within 48 hours

Dealing with the University:

• Document all communications
• Ask about prior incidents involving the organization
• Don’t sign anything without legal review
• Refer them to your attorney

For Students: Is This Hazing and What to Do

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Am I being forced or pressured?
• Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
• Is this dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Would my parents/university approve if they knew?
• Am I being told to keep secrets?

If You’re in Immediate Danger:

• Call 911 for medical emergencies
• Get to a safe location
• Good-faith reporter protections exist in Texas

Safe Exit Strategies:

1. Tell someone outside the organization first
2. Send email/text resignation: “I resign effective immediately”
3. Do NOT go to “one last meeting”
4. Report retaliation to campus police

Evidence Collection for Students:

1. Screenshots: Full conversations with timestamps
2. Recordings: Texas is one-party consent state
3. Photos: Injuries, locations, objects
4. Medical records: Say “I was hazed” for documentation
5. Witness info: Names and contact details

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence

• What happens: Looks like cover-up, obstruction of justice
• Correct action: Preserve everything immediately

2. Confronting the Organization

• What happens: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• Correct action: Document first, let attorneys handle communication

3. Signing University Agreements

• What happens: May waive rights, accept low settlement
• Correct action: No signatures without attorney review

4. Social Media Posts

• What happens: Defense screenshots everything, inconsistencies hurt
• Correct action: Private documentation only, attorney controls messaging

5. Waiting “to See What Happens”

• What happens: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
• Correct action: Immediate consultation, evidence preservation

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters

• What happens: Recorded statements used against you
• Correct action: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Keene Families

“Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals personally. Private universities have fewer protections. Every case depends on specific facts—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 a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if the 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 that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

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

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

“Will my child’s name be public?”
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 this cost?”
We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win. Our fees come from the recovery. Watch our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

“What about criminal charges?”
We can advise on both criminal and civil aspects. Ralph Manginello’s HCCLA membership means we understand criminal defense strategies too.

Why Attorney911 for Keene Hazing Cases: Texas-Based, Nationally Relevant Expertise

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

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

Insurance Insider Advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña’s Defense Background

• Former insurance defense attorney at a national firm
• Knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) claims
• Understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph Manginello’s Experience

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

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and 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 accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

• Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
• Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
• Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
• Knows constitutional challenges that apply to searches of fraternity houses

Investigative Depth and Expert Network

• Digital forensics for recovering deleted messages
• Medical experts for injury documentation
• Psychologists for PTSD and trauma evaluation
• Greek life culture experts for pattern evidence
• “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine

• 1,423 Greek organizations tracked across 25 Texas metros
• IRS B83 data on 125+ Texas-registered Greek entities
• Campus rosters from official university sources
• Cause IQ metro organization data
• “We already know the organizational landscape before you call.”

Our Active Litigation: The Bermudez Case Against UH and Pi Kappa Phi

Right now, we’re proving our capabilities in real time. The Leonel Bermudez case isn’t hypothetical—it’s our current litigation:

What We’re Doing:

• Pursuing $10 million in damages for rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure
• Suing 17 defendants including UH, Pi Kappa Phi national, housing corporation, and 13 individuals
• Using digital evidence from group chats
• Leveraging medical documentation of kidney damage
• Building pattern evidence from Pi Kappa Phi’s national history

Why This Matters for Keene Families:

• Shows we’re actively fighting these battles today
• Demonstrates our willingness to take on major institutions
• Proves our investigative capabilities in complex hazing cases
• Establishes precedents that benefit all Texas families

How We Serve Keene and Johnson County Families

Geographic Reach:

• Based in Houston but serve families statewide
• Experience with Dallas-Fort Worth metro courts (including Johnson County)
• Understand jurisdictional differences across Texas counties
• “Distance doesn’t matter—institutional accountability does.”

Spanish Language Services:

• Mr. Lupe Peña speaks fluent Spanish
• Servicios legales en español disponibles
• Cultural understanding of Texas Hispanic families
• Contact Lupe at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish

Communication Commitment:

• Regular case updates (every 2-3 weeks minimum)
• Direct access to attorneys, not just paralegals
• Responsive to family concerns and questions
• Watch our video on client communication: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JrQowOLv1k

Our Fee Structure: Making Justice Accessible

Contingency Fee Basis:

• No upfront costs
• No fee unless we win your case
• Fees come from recovery, not your pocket
• Level playing field against wealthy institutions

What We Cover:

• Investigation costs
• Expert fees
• Court costs
• All litigation expenses

Transparent Process:

• Clear fee agreement upfront
• Regular accounting of costs
• No surprises
• Watch our contingency fee explanation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Call to Action: Your First Step Toward Accountability

If Hazing Has Impacted Your Keene Family

Whether you’re in Keene proper, Cleburne, Burleson, or anywhere in Johnson County, if hazing has hurt your child, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions involved have teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters ready to protect themselves. You need an equalizer.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

1. We listen: Your story matters, and we’ll hear it without judgment
2. Evidence review: We’ll look at photos, texts, medical records you have
3. Options explained: Criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
4. Realistic assessment: Timelines, challenges, potential outcomes
5. Cost discussion: Contingency fee means no money upfront
6. No pressure: Take time to decide what’s right for your family
7. Confidentiality: Everything you tell us is protected

Your Immediate Next Steps:

1. Call us now: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
2. Preserve evidence: Don’t delete anything, take photos, write notes
3. Get medical care: Even if injuries seem minor, document everything
4. Avoid mistakes: No social media, no confrontation, no signatures
5. Let us help: We’ve guided hundreds of Texas families through this

Contact Attorney911 Today

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Legal Emergency Lawyers™
Serving Keene, Johnson County, and All of Texas

24/7 Emergency Line: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct Office: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com

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

Practice Areas Relevant to Hazing Cases:
Wrongful Death: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal Defense: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/

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

Final Message to Keene Families

From our work on the Bermudez case at UH to representing families across Texas, we’ve seen the devastating impact of hazing. We’ve also seen the power of accountability—how proper litigation can not only compensate families but force institutional change that prevents future harm.

Your child’s safety and future matter. The organizations involved count on families feeling overwhelmed and giving up. Don’t let them win. Let us help you fight back with the same level of expertise and resources they have.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s start the conversation about protecting your child and holding the right people accountable.

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