The Ultimate Guide for Ames, Texas Families: Understanding Hazing, Law, and Protecting Your College Student
A Parent’s Worst Fear: When Hazing Hits Close to Home
Imagine your child is excitedly beginning their college journey, hoping to find community and friendship through a campus organization. Now imagine them, a student from Ames, Texas, at an off-campus fraternity house on “initiation night.” They’re being pressured to drink far beyond safe limits, endure punishing physical exercises, or perform degrading acts while others film on their phones, chanting. Someone collapses, but nobody wants to call 911 for fear of “getting the chapter shut down.” Your child feels trapped between loyalty to this group and their own safety.
This is not a distant hypothetical—it’s happening right now at Texas campuses. As we’re writing this, our firm is actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas: representing Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and 13 individual fraternity leaders.
The allegations are harrowing: during his fall 2025 pledge period, Bermudez was subjected to extreme physical hazing including forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting; being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”; performing 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion; and carrying a degrading “pledge fanny pack” 24/7. This culminated in rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure, requiring four days of hospitalization and leaving him with ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter has since been suspended and surrendered its charter, and UH called the conduct “deeply disturbing.”
This comprehensive guide is written specifically for families in Ames, Liberty County, and all of Texas who need to understand:
- What modern hazing truly looks like in 2025 (far beyond old stereotypes)
- How Texas and federal law protect your child and hold organizations accountable
- What we’ve learned from major national cases and how they apply to Texas families
- What’s happening at Texas universities where Ames students often attend
- What legal options victims and families may have
This article provides general information, not specific legal advice. Each case depends on its unique facts. We serve families throughout Texas, including Ames and Liberty County, and can evaluate individual situations based on their specific circumstances.
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 your child insists they’re “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 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 items, coached witnesses)
- Universities move quickly to control the narrative
- We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights
- Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation
Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like in Texas
The Modern Reality of Hazing
For Ames families unfamiliar with today’s college environments, hazing has evolved far beyond simple pranks or traditions. In 2025, hazing means 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. We emphasize this critical point: “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there’s peer pressure and power imbalance.
Main Categories of Hazing We See Today
Alcohol and Substance Hazing
- Forced or coerced drinking during “Big/Little” nights, “bid acceptance” parties, or drinking games
- Chugging challenges, “lineups,” games requiring rapid consumption
- Being pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances
- The Leonel Bermudez case involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting
Physical Hazing
- Paddling and beatings (common in some traditions, despite national prohibitions)
- Extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond normal conditioning
- Sleep deprivation, food/water deprivation
- Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments
- In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, pledges were forced to lie in vomit-soaked grass and endure cold-weather workouts in underwear
Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
- Forced nudity or partial nudity
- Simulated sexual acts, degrading costumes, humiliating positions
- Acts with racial or sexist overtones, slurs, or role-play
- The “pledge fanny pack” in the UH case contained condoms and a sex toy—classic humiliation hazing
Psychological Hazing
- Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
- Manipulation or forced confessions
- Public shaming in meetings or group settings
Digital/Online Hazing
- Group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation via Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord
- Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos
- 24/7 monitoring and immediate response demands in messaging apps
Where Hazing Actually Happens in Texas
Ames families should understand that hazing extends far beyond fraternity stereotypes:
Fraternities and Sororities
- Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternities and Panhellenic sororities
- National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) “Divine Nine” organizations
- Multicultural Greek Councils (MGC)
- Professional and honor societies
Corps of Cadets / Military-Style Groups
- Texas A&M Corps of Cadets has faced serious hazing allegations
- ROTC programs at various universities
Athletic Teams
- Football, basketball, baseball programs
- Cheerleading and spirit squads
- Club and intramural sports
Spirit and Tradition Organizations
- Texas Cowboys, Silver Spurs, and similar groups at UT
- Marching bands and performance groups
- Service organizations and cultural clubs
The common threads across all types: social status, tradition, and secrecy keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.
Law & Liability Framework: What Texas Families Need to Know
Texas Hazing Law Basics
Under Texas law—which governs cases affecting Ames families—hazing is specifically defined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. The law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student that:
- Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
- Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.
Key provisions Ames families should know:
Criminal Penalties (Section 37.152)
- Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000)
- Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes injury requiring medical treatment
- State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death
- Also criminal: Failing to report hazing or retaliating against someone who reports
Organizational Liability (Section 37.153)
- Organizations can be criminally prosecuted if they authorized or encouraged hazing
- Fines up to $10,000 per violation
- Universities can revoke recognition and ban organizations from campus
Consent is NOT a Defense (Section 37.155)
This is crucial for Ames families to understand: Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, it’s still illegal if the conduct meets the hazing definition.
Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (Section 37.154)
- Persons who report hazing in good faith are immune from civil or criminal liability
- Many universities have amnesty policies for those who call for help in emergencies
Criminal vs Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference
Criminal Cases
- Brought by the state (prosecutor)
- Aim: punishment (jail, fines, probation)
- Typical charges: hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
Civil Cases
- Brought by victims or surviving families
- Aim: monetary compensation and accountability
- Focus on: negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
Both types can run side-by-side, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. In fact, many hazing cases result in civil litigation even when criminal charges aren’t filed.
Federal Overlay: Additional Protections
Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
- Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently
- Strengthen hazing education and prevention
- Maintain public hazing data (phased in by around 2026)
- This means more transparency for Ames families researching campus safety
Title IX & Clery Act
- When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered
- Clery requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics
- These federal laws provide additional avenues for accountability
Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?
Individual Students
- Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover them up
- Officers (president, pledgemaster, risk manager) often face greater liability
Local Chapter/Organization
- The fraternity/sorority or club itself as a legal entity
- Chapter housing corporations (many have separate legal identities)
National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters
- Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
- Liability hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents
- In the UH case, Pi Kappa Phi national is named alongside the local chapter
University or Governing Board
- Schools may be liable under negligence or civil-rights theories
- Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference
- The University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents are defendants in the Bermudez case
Third Parties
- Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces
- Bars or alcohol providers (under dram shop theories)
- Security companies or event organizers
Every case is fact-specific, but experienced hazing attorneys know how to identify all potentially liable parties.
National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families
Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern
Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
- Bid-acceptance event with extreme drinking documented on chapter security cameras
- Hours delayed before calling for help
- Dozens of criminal charges; new Pennsylvania anti-hazing law named after him
- Takeaway for Ames families: Delay in calling 911 and culture of silence can be devastating
Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
- “Big/Little” event; pledge given handle of liquor; fatal alcohol poisoning
- Criminal hazing charges; FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
- Takeaway: Formulaic drinking “traditions” are repeating scripts for disaster
Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
- “Bible study” drinking game; forced to drink for wrong answers
- Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
- Led to Max Gruver Act (Louisiana felony hazing statute)
- Takeaway: Legislative change often follows tragedy
Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
- Forced to drink nearly entire bottle of whiskey during pledge event
- Family reached $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
- Takeaway: Universities face significant financial consequences alongside fraternities
Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern
Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
- Pledge subjected to violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at retreat
- Fatal head injuries; help delayed
- National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
- Fraternity banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
- Takeaway for Ames families: Off-campus “retreats” can be particularly dangerous
Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)
- Forced excessive drinking during “pledge dad reveal” night
- Suffered severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
- Family settled with 22 defendants; multi-million dollar recoveries
- Takeaway: Non-fatal injuries can still be catastrophic and life-altering
Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse
Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
- Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within football program
- Multiple lawsuits; head coach fired; confidential settlements
- Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to major athletic programs
Western Kentucky University Swim Team (2012–2015)
- Investigation revealed hazing dating back years
- Entire swim program suspended for five years
- University settled federal lawsuit for $75,000
- Takeaway: Even non-revenue sports programs can harbor systemic abuse
What These Cases Mean for Ames, Texas Families
These national cases set precedents that Ames families can rely on in Texas courts. Common threads emerge: forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, and cover-ups. Reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements often follow only after tragedy and litigation. Texas families facing hazing are not alone and operate in a landscape shaped by these national lessons.
Texas University Focus: Where Ames Students Attend
Understanding the Landscape for Liberty County Families
Ames families in Liberty County often send students to universities throughout Texas. While some attend local community colleges or nearby universities, many choose major Texas institutions with significant Greek life and campus organization cultures. Understanding what’s happening at these schools is crucial for prevention and response.
University of Houston: The Active Litigation Example
Campus & Culture Snapshot
- Large urban campus with mix of commuter and residential students
- Active Greek life with multiple councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, MGC)
- Approximately 60+ fraternity and sorority chapters
- Where the active Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi case is unfolding
Hazing Policy & Reporting
- UH prohibits hazing on or off-campus
- Policies forbid forced consumption, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment
- Reporting through Dean of Students, conduct offices, campus police
- UH posts some disciplinary information online
Recent Incident & Response
The Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi case (November 2025) represents ongoing serious hazing at UH:
- Allegations: Extreme physical hazing, forced overeating until vomiting, simulated waterboarding, degrading “pledge fanny pack” requirements
- Medical Harm: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, four-day hospitalization
- Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual members/officers
- Institutional Response: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspended chapter November 6, 2025; chapter surrendered charter November 14, 2025; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”
- Media Coverage: Click2Houston report and ABC13 coverage detail the case
How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed
- Involves UHPD and/or Houston Police Department depending on location
- Civil suits typically filed in Harris County courts
- Multiple defendant types: individuals, chapter, national, university, property owners
- The Bermudez case demonstrates comprehensive approach against all responsible parties
What UH Students & Ames Parents Should Do
- Report to UH Dean of Students Office immediately
- Document all communications with university
- Preserve digital evidence (GroupMe, texts, social media)
- Contact experienced Houston-based hazing attorneys familiar with UH procedures
Texas A&M University: Corps Culture & Greek Life
Campus & Culture Snapshot
- Strong Greek life with approximately 60+ fraternity and sorority chapters
- Corps of Cadets military-style tradition environment
- Significant athletic program culture
- Many Ames and Liberty County students attend due to proximity and reputation
Recent Documented Incidents
Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021)
- Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner
- Caused severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
- Pledges sued fraternity for $1 million
- Chapter suspended by university for two years
Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023)
- Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts
- Bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth
- Sought over $1 million in damages
- Texas A&M stated it handled matter under its rules
How Hazing Cases at Texas A&M Proceed
- Involves Texas A&M University Police Department
- Civil cases typically filed in Brazos County courts
- Unique considerations with Corps of Cadets (military-style discipline and traditions)
- Both Greek life and Corps traditions require specialized understanding
What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do
- Report to Student Conduct Office and/or Corps leadership if applicable
- Understand dual reporting paths (university and Corps)
- Document everything—Corps hazing often involves physical discipline traditions
- Seek attorneys experienced with both Greek life and military-style organization hazing
University of Texas at Austin: Transparency & Patterns
Campus & Culture Snapshot
- Approximately 60+ fraternity and sorority chapters
- Strong spirit organization culture (Texas Cowboys, etc.)
- Public hazing violations transparency unusual among Texas schools
- Many Central and East Texas students, including from Liberty County, attend UT
UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page
UT maintains unusually transparent public hazing records at hazing.utexas.edu:
Example Entries:
- Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter probation with hazing prevention education required
- Texas Wranglers (recent): Sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing
- Various fraternities and sororities with probation, suspension, or educational sanctions
How UT Hazing Cases Proceed
- Involves UTPD and/or Austin Police Department
- Civil cases typically filed in Travis County courts
- Prior violations on UT’s public log provide powerful pattern evidence
- Transparency can help plaintiffs but also prompts stronger defense preparation
What UT Students & Parents Should Do
- Check UT’s public hazing log for organization history before joining
- Report through Dean of Students Office and UTPD
- Document everything—UT’s process is more transparent but still requires evidence
- Seek attorneys familiar with UT’s specific procedures and culture
Southern Methodist University: Private Campus Dynamics
Campus & Culture Snapshot
- Private university with affluent student population
- Strong Greek life presence
- Different transparency requirements than public universities
- Some Liberty County families choose SMU for academic programs
Recent Documented Incidents
Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017)
- New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, deprived of sleep
- Chapter suspended; restrictions on recruiting until approximately 2021
SMU’s Approach to Hazing
- Private university status affects transparency
- Reporting through SMU Conduct Office and anonymous systems
- Often less public information than state schools
How SMU Hazing Cases Proceed
- Involves SMU Police Department and/or Dallas Police
- Civil cases typically filed in Dallas County courts
- Private university discovery can be challenging but possible through litigation
- Different liability considerations than public universities
What SMU Students & Parents Should Do
- Report through SMU Conduct Office immediately
- Understand private university may control information flow more tightly
- Document everything—less public transparency means more reliance on your evidence
- Seek attorneys experienced with private university litigation
Baylor University: Religious Identity & History
Campus & Culture Snapshot
- Private Christian university
- History of scrutiny over football and Title IX issues
- Greek life and athletic program cultures
- Some Liberty County families choose Baylor for religious education alignment
Recent Documented Incidents
Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020)
- 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
- Suspensions staggered over early season
- Limited public details due to private university status
Baylor’s Broader Context
- Religious identity affects institutional response patterns
- Prior scandals (sexual assault) shape current oversight approaches
- “Zero tolerance” policies vs. recurring misconduct patterns
How Baylor Hazing Cases Proceed
- Involves Baylor Police Department and/or Waco Police
- Civil cases typically filed in McLennan County courts
- Religious branding and prior scandals affect litigation dynamics
- Different procedural rules as private religious institution
What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do
- Report through Baylor Conduct Office immediately
- Understand religious institution may approach issues differently
- Documentation is crucial—private universities control narratives tightly
- Seek attorneys experienced with religious institution litigation
Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories & Local Patterns
Why National Histories Matter for Ames Families
Many fraternities and sororities at Texas universities are part of national organizations with documented hazing histories across the country. When a Texas chapter repeats the same patterns that caused deaths or injuries elsewhere, that demonstrates foreseeability—a key legal concept supporting negligence claims against national headquarters.
National organizations typically have:
- Detailed anti-hazing manuals and risk policies because they’ve seen tragedies before
- Knowledge of dangerous patterns: forced drinking nights, paddling traditions, humiliating rituals
- Legal departments experienced in defending hazing claims
When they fail to prevent known dangerous patterns at local chapters, liability often follows.
Organization Mapping: National Patterns in Texas
Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike)
- National Pattern: Stone Foltz death (BGSU 2021), David Bogenberger death (NIU 2012)
- Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
- Pattern Evidence: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing deaths; forced drinking traditions
- Legal Significance: National had warnings about alcohol hazing patterns
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE)
- National Pattern: Multiple hazing deaths nationwide; traumatic brain injury case (Alabama 2023)
- Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
- Texas Incidents: Chemical burns case (Texas A&M 2021); assault case (UT Austin 2024)
- Legal Significance: Documented pattern across multiple Texas chapters
Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)
- National Pattern: Andrew Coffey death (FSU 2017)
- Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin
- Active Texas Case: Leonel Bermudez lawsuit at UH (2025)
- Legal Significance: Active litigation demonstrating ongoing issues
Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)
- National Pattern: Max Gruver death (LSU 2017)
- Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
- Pattern Evidence: “Bible study” drinking game fatalities
- Legal Significance: Led to felony hazing legislation in Louisiana
Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)
- Texas Incidents: SMU suspension (2017); Texas Tech chapter
- Pattern Evidence: Physical hazing, paddling traditions
- Legal Significance: Repeated violations despite national policies
How National Histories Support Legal Strategy
Patterns across states and campuses show that certain organizations had repeated warnings. Courts consider whether national organizations:
- Meaningfully enforced anti-hazing policies
- Responded aggressively enough to prior incidents
- Implemented effective oversight of local chapters
This affects:
- Settlement leverage: National insurers consider pattern liability
- Insurance coverage disputes: Pattern knowledge affects “intentional act” exclusions
- Punitive damages: Repeated failures despite knowledge support punishment
For Ames families, this means experienced hazing attorneys investigate not just the local incident, but the national organization’s entire history with similar conduct.
Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy
Critical Evidence Categories
Digital Communications
- GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack: Chapter planning and coordination
- Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok: Social media evidence often captures hazing
- Fraternity-specific apps: Organization communication platforms
- Recovered/deleted messages: Digital forensics can often retrieve “permanently” deleted content
- In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, group chats likely contain planning and evidence
Watch our video on using your cellphone to document evidence for proper preservation techniques.
Photos & Videos
- Content filmed by members during events (often shared in group chats)
- Security camera or doorbell footage at houses and venues
- Social media posts and stories showing events
- Medical documentation of injuries over time
Internal Organization Documents
- Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
- Emails/texts from officers about activities
- National policies and training materials (obtained through discovery)
- Risk management files and incident reports
University Records
- Prior conduct files, probation/suspension records
- Incident reports to campus police or conduct offices
- Clery Act reports and safety disclosures
- Internal emails among administrators (obtained through public records requests or discovery)
Medical & Psychological Records
- Emergency room and hospitalization records
- Surgery and rehabilitation notes
- Toxicology and laboratory reports
- Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses)
Witness Testimony
- Other pledges experiencing same conduct
- Members who participated or witnessed
- Roommates, RAs, bystanders
- Former members who quit or were expelled
Damages in Hazing Cases
Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses)
- Medical bills & future care: ER, hospitalization, surgeries, therapy, medications
- Lost earnings/educational impact: Missed semesters, delayed graduation, reduced earning capacity
- Other expenses: Property damage, relocation costs, counseling
Non-Economic Damages
- Physical pain and suffering: From injuries and recovery
- Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in activities previously enjoyed
Wrongful Death Damages (for families)
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of companionship, love, and support
- Emotional harm to parents and siblings
- Lost financial support and guidance
Punitive Damages
- When conduct is especially reckless, willful, or malicious
- To punish defendants and deter future conduct
- Available under certain circumstances in Texas
We explain more about damages in our wrongful death practice area page.
Insurance Coverage Issues
National fraternities and universities typically have insurance policies that may cover hazing claims, but insurers often argue:
- Intentional act exclusions: Hazing was intentional, not covered
- Criminal act exclusions: Illegal conduct isn’t covered
- Policy limit issues: Multiple claims may exhaust coverage
Experienced hazing attorneys:
- Identify all potential coverage sources (national, chapter, university, individual)
- Navigate coverage disputes and “reservation of rights” letters
- Pursue bad faith claims against insurers who wrongfully deny coverage
- Understand how Mr. Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney provides crucial insight
Practical Guides & FAQs for Ames Families
For Parents: Warning Signs & Response
Warning Signs Your Child May Be Hazed
- Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
- Extreme fatigue, exhaustion beyond normal college stress
- Weight loss/gain from food/water restriction or stress
- Sleep deprivation (late-night calls, 3 AM “meetings”)
- Withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-Greek activities
- Sudden secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
- Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability, fear
- Constant phone use for group chat monitoring; anxiety about missing messages
- Academic decline: dropping grades, missing classes, losing scholarships
- Financial red flags: unexpected large expenses, requests for money without clear explanation
How to Talk to Your Child
- Ask open questions without judgment: “How are things going with [organization]?”
- “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
- “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or you wish you didn’t have to do?”
- Listen without interrupting if they start to open up
- Emphasize safety over status: “Your health matters more than any organization”
If Your Child Is Hurt
- Get medical attention immediately, even if they resist
- Document everything: Photos of injuries, screenshots of messages, written notes
- Save physical evidence: Clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
- Write down names, dates, locations, witnesses
- Do NOT confront the organization directly
Dealing with the University
- Document every communication with administrators
- Ask specifically: “What prior incidents involved this organization?”
- Request copies of all policies, procedures, and past disciplinary actions
- Don’t let “we’re investigating internally” delay external action
When to Talk to a Lawyer
- If your child has significant physical or psychological harm
- If the university or organization is minimizing what happened
- If evidence preservation is urgent (messages being deleted)
- Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance
For Students/Pledges: Self-Assessment & Safety
Is This Hazing or Just Tradition?
Ask yourself:
- Am I being forced or pressured to do something unsafe or degrading?
- Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
- Is this activity dangerous, illegal, or humiliating?
- Would my parents or the university approve if they knew exactly what’s happening?
- Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
- Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?
If you answer YES to any, it’s likely hazing.
Exiting Safely
- You have the legal right to leave at any time
- Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, trusted friend)
- Send written resignation to chapter president/new member educator
- Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
- If fearing retaliation, report that fear to Dean of Students and campus police
Good-Faith Reporting & Amnesty
- Texas law provides immunity for good-faith reporting
- Many universities have amnesty policies for those calling for help
- You generally won’t get in trouble for seeking medical help in an emergency
Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case
We’ve created a video specifically about client mistakes that can ruin your injury case, but here are the most critical errors for hazing cases:
1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence
- What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
- Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; can be obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
- What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content
2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly
- What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
- Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
- What to do instead: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation
3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms
- What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
- Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue; settlements often below true value
- What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review
4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer
- What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
- Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
- What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging
5. Letting Your Child Go Back to “One Last Meeting”
- What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
- Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract damaging statements
- What to do instead: Once considering legal action, all communication through your lawyer
6. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”
- What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
- Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
- What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately
7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer
- What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
- Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
- What to do instead: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”
Frequently Asked Questions for Ames Families
“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity 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.
“Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.
“How long do we have to file a hazing 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 or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. Learn more in our statute of limitations video.
“What if the hazing 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 hazing cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.
“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.
“How much does it cost to hire a hazing attorney?”
We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover money for you. No upfront costs, no hourly fees. Learn how contingency fees work in our educational video.
Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases: Our Unique Qualifications
When Your Ames Family Faces a Hazing Crisis
When your 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. From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Ames and Liberty County. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families across our region, and we’re committed to providing the specialized representation these complex cases demand.
Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation
Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña)
Mr. Peña (he/him) spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:
- Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
- Use delay tactics and lowball settlement strategies
- Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
- Set reserves and manage claim litigation
His background means we know their playbook because we used to run it. Learn more about Mr. Peña’s experience at his attorney profile page.
Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello)
Ralph Manginello is one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation against billion-dollar corporations. This experience translates directly to hazing cases because:
- We’re not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams
- We have federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
- We understand complex institutional discovery and evidence preservation
- We know how to value catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases
Learn more about Ralph’s background at his attorney profile page.
Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience
- Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases with economist collaboration
- Experience valuing lifetime care needs for brain injury and permanent disability
- We work with experts who understand rhabdomyolysis, kidney damage, PTSD
- “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)
- Understanding how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
- Ability to advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
- Experience navigating parallel criminal and civil proceedings
Investigative Depth & Expert Network
- Network of experts: medical specialists, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
- Experience obtaining hidden evidence through discovery and investigation
- Ability to recover deleted messages, subpoena national fraternity records
- “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”
Spanish-Language Services
- Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
- We serve Hispanic families throughout Texas
- Complete consultation and representation available in Spanish
Our Approach: Empathy, Accountability, Prevention
We know hazing cases are among the hardest things a family can face. Our approach balances:
Empathy & Support
- We listen without judgment to your family’s experience
- We understand the emotional trauma for victims and families
- We provide regular communication and updates (every 2-3 weeks)
- We’re here to support you through the entire process
Accountability & Justice
- We investigate thoroughly to identify all responsible parties
- We pursue full compensation for medical care, lost opportunities, and suffering
- We seek institutional reforms through litigation when possible
- We’re not afraid to take cases to trial when settlement offers are inadequate
Prevention & Awareness
- We believe holding organizations accountable prevents future harm
- We support transparency in campus safety reporting
- We educate families about warning signs and prevention
- We honor victims by working to ensure others don’t suffer similarly
Call to Action for Ames, Texas Families
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether it’s the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other school—we want to hear from you. Families in Ames, Liberty County, and throughout East Texas have the right to answers and accountability.
Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation
What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:
- We’ll listen to your story without judgment or pressure
- Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
- Explain your legal options: criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
- Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
- Answer your questions about costs (contingency fee—we don’t get paid unless we win)
- No pressure to hire us—take time to decide what’s right for your family
- Everything you tell us is confidential
Contact Information
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello) or lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña)
Spanish-Language Services Available
Hablamos Español—Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish
Serving Ames & All of Texas
We represent hazing victims and families throughout Texas from our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont. Whether you’re in Ames, Liberty County, Houston, College Station, Austin, or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone.
Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to help, we’re here to listen, and we’re here to fight for accountability and justice.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.
Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.
If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.
The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Plain Text Links to Key Resources
News Coverage of the Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Lawsuit
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Click2Houston (KPRC 2) — “‘Urine was brown’: Pledge sues over severe hazing at University of Houston’s shut down Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”
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ABC13 Eyewitness News (KTRK) — “Waterboarding, forced eating, physical punishment: Lawsuit alleges abuse faced by injured pledge at UH’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”
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Hoodline — “University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Face $10M Lawsuit Over Alleged Hazing and Abuse”
Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos
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“📱 Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case? | Attorney911 Explains”
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“Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case? | Attorney911 with Injury Lawyer Ralph Manginello”
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“Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case | Attorney911 with Ralph Manginello”
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“📢 How Do Contingency Fees Work? Injury Lawyer Explains!”
Attorney911 Main Website & Practice Area Pages
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Attorney911 — Main Website & Contact
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Wrongful Death Practice Area
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Criminal Defense Practice Area
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Ralph Manginello Attorney Profile
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Lupe Peña Attorney Profile
