Hazing Injuries & Fraternity Abuse in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide for Cleveland Families

If your child attends a Texas university and has come home with unexplained injuries, sudden anxiety, or stories about “traditions” that don’t feel right, you’re not alone. For parents in Cleveland, Liberty County, and across East Texas, the dream of a safe college experience can turn into a nightmare when hazing crosses the line from uncomfortable to dangerous.

Right now, in Houston, we’re actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas. Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, is suing the university, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders for $10 million after allegedly suffering rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure during pledge activities. The details—forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting, “waterboarding” with a hose, extreme physical workouts at Yellowstone Boulevard Park, and the degrading “pledge fanny pack” rule—represent exactly what Cleveland families fear when they send their children to Texas campuses.

This comprehensive guide explains what hazing looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects students, and what families in Cleveland, Dayton, Splendora, and throughout Liberty County can do if their child has been injured during fraternity, sorority, Corps, athletic, or spirit group initiation.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

For Cleveland parents who may not have experienced modern Greek life themselves, hazing has evolved far beyond the “harmless pranks” of decades past. Today’s hazing is often systematic, psychologically sophisticated, and digitally documented.

The Modern Definition of Hazing

Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. Crucially, “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there’s peer pressure and power imbalance.

Main Categories of Hazing Affecting Texas Students

Alcohol and Substance Hazing

• Forced or coerced drinking games (“lineups,” “Bible study,” “Big/Little” nights)
• Chugging challenges with hard liquor
• Pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances
• The Leonel Bermudez case at UH involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting

Physical Hazing

• Paddling and beatings (still occur despite national prohibitions)
• Extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond normal conditioning
• Sleep deprivation and food/water restriction
• Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments
• The UH Pi Kappa Phi case included 100+ push-ups, 500 squats, and cold-weather exposure in underwear

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts, degrading costumes
• Acts with racial or sexist overtones
• The “pledge fanny pack” in the UH case contained condoms and sex toys as humiliation tools

Psychological Hazing

• Verbal abuse, threats, isolation
• Manipulation or forced confessions
• Public shaming in meetings or online

Digital/Online Hazing

• Group chat dares and “challenges”
• Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos
• 24/7 monitoring via GroupMe, WhatsApp, or Discord
• Social media humiliation through Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok

Where Hazing Happens at Texas Schools

While fraternities often dominate headlines, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC at Texas A&M and other military-style programs
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Groups like Texas Cowboys
• Athletic Teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer)
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups
• Some Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations

For Cleveland families with children at Texas A&M, the Corps culture adds another layer of tradition-based risk that requires particular attention.

Texas Hazing Law: What Cleveland Families Need to Know

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws that protect students at both public and private universities. Understanding these laws is crucial for Cleveland families navigating a hazing situation.

Texas Education Code – Chapter 37 (Hazing Provisions)

Definition Under Texas Law
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

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

Key Points for Cleveland Families:

• Can happen on or off campus (location doesn’t matter)
• Can be mental or physical harm
• “Reckless” is enough—they knew the risk and did it anyway
• “Consent is not a defense” (Texas Education Code § 37.155)

Criminal Penalties in Texas

• 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

Additional criminal provisions:

• Failing to report hazing (if you’re a member/officer and knew about it): misdemeanor
• Retaliating against someone who reports: misdemeanor

Organizational Liability

Texas law allows organizations to be prosecuted if:

• The org authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
• An officer/member acting in official capacity knew about hazing and failed to report it

Penalties include fines up to $10,000 per violation and potential university banishment.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting

A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from the report.

This is critical for Cleveland students who fear getting in trouble for underage drinking or other violations—calling 911 in a medical emergency is protected.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

The tragic cases that made national headlines aren’t abstract—they show patterns that repeat at Texas campuses, including where Cleveland students attend.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

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

• Bid-acceptance event with heavy drinking
• Severe falls captured on chapter cameras; hours delayed before medical help
• Dozens of criminal charges; new Pennsylvania anti-hazing law
• Takeaway for Cleveland families: Extreme intoxication + delay in calling 911 = devastating consequences

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

• Forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during pledge night
• Died from alcohol poisoning
• $10 million total settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
• Takeaway: Universities pay significant settlements alongside fraternities

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• “Bible study” drinking game; forced drinking for wrong answers
• Died with 0.495% BAC
• $6.1 million verdict against individual members
• Takeaway: Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

• Blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at retreat
• Fatal head injuries; delayed medical help
• National fraternity criminally convicted
• Takeaway: Off-campus “retreats” are particularly dangerous

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

• Alleged sexualized, racist hazing within football program
• Multiple lawsuits; head coach fired and settled wrongful-termination suit
• Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to major athletic programs

What These Cases Mean for Cleveland Families

Common threads in these national cases—forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, cover-ups—are exactly what we see in Texas cases. The multi-million-dollar settlements and new laws show that families can achieve accountability, but it requires experienced legal representation against powerful institutional defendants.

Texas University Focus: Where Cleveland Students Attend

Cleveland families typically send students to a mix of regional colleges and major Texas universities. Understanding the hazing landscape at each campus is crucial.

University of Houston: The Active Case in Our Backyard

As Houston-based hazing attorneys, we’re currently representing Leonel Bermudez against UH and Pi Kappa Phi—a case that should concern every Cleveland parent with a child at any Texas university.

The UH Pi Kappa Phi Case Details:

• Plaintiff: Leonel Bermudez, UH transfer student
• Injuries: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization
• Hazing Methods: “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation, forced overeating, hose spraying “like waterboarding,” extreme workouts at Yellowstone Park
• Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national HQ, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual leaders
• Status: Active $10 million lawsuit filed late 2025
• Outcome: Chapter suspended Nov 6, 2025; charter surrendered Nov 14, 2025

Why This Matters for Cleveland Families:

1. Geographic proximity: UH is just an hour from Cleveland
2. Pattern evidence: Shows systematic hazing still occurs at major Texas universities
3. Institutional response: UH called conduct “deeply disturbing” but families need more than statements
4. Legal precedent: This active case demonstrates our firm’s current hazing litigation capability

UH’s Greek Life Landscape:

• Active fraternity/sorority community with multiple councils
• Documented prior incidents beyond Pi Kappa Phi
• For Cleveland students: Close enough for frequent home visits, far enough for secrecy

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

For Cleveland families in the Aggie tradition, understanding both Greek and Corps hazing risks is essential.

Corps of Cadets Hazing Concerns:

• 2023 lawsuit alleged cadet was bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
• Tradition-heavy environment with reported discipline issues
• For Cleveland parents: Corps hazing often flies under “military discipline” radar

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

• Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, spit
• Severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
• $1 million lawsuit filed against fraternity
• Chapter suspended for two years

Texas A&M’s Unique Challenges:

• Blend of Greek life and Corps traditions
• Large alumni network that sometimes protects “traditions”
• For Cleveland students: Strong regional draw with unique risks

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Patterns

UT Austin maintains one of Texas’ most transparent hazing violation databases—valuable for pattern evidence.

Documented UT Incidents:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter probation
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Australian exchange student alleged assault resulting in dislocated leg, broken nose, fractured tibia; over $1 million lawsuit
• Multiple spirit organizations sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol hazing

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page:

• Lists organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions
• Shows repeated violations by same organizations
• For Cleveland families: This transparency helps prove “they knew or should have known”

Why UT Cases Matter:

• Precedent for holding chapters accountable
• Public records aid civil litigation
• Distance from Cleveland (3+ hours) means students may hide problems longer

Southern Methodist University: Affluent Campus, Persistent Problems

SMU’s private status and affluent student body create unique dynamics for hazing.

Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017):

• New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, sleep deprived
• Chapter suspended; restrictions until 2021
• Pattern: Private university, less public scrutiny

SMU’s Greek Life Reality:

• Strong social pressure to belong
• Significant financial resources for defense
• For Cleveland families: May represent “dream school” with hidden risks

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Scrutiny

Baylor’s history with institutional scandals creates particular context for hazing cases.

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020):

• 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
• Staggered suspensions over season
• Context: Part of broader cultural and oversight challenges

Baylor’s Complex Landscape:

• Religious branding versus institutional reality
• Prior Title IX scandals inform current approach
• For Cleveland families: May choose Baylor for values, need vigilance on realities

The Greek Organization Landscape: National Histories Meet Texas Chapters

When a hazing incident occurs at a Texas university, the national organization’s history becomes crucial evidence. Cleveland families need to understand that local chapters don’t operate in isolation.

Why National Histories Matter in Litigation

National fraternities and sororities have:

1. Thick anti-hazing manuals precisely because they’ve seen deaths and injuries
2. Prior incident databases showing repeating patterns
3. Insurance policies that may cover or exclude hazing
4. Legal departments experienced in defending these cases

When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous “tradition” that caused a death in another state, that shows foreseeability—a key legal concept.

Major Organizations with Documented Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike)

• Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State, 2021, alcohol poisoning death, $10M settlement
• David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois University, 2012, alcohol poisoning death, $14M settlement
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor
• For Cleveland families: This national pattern matters if your child is pledging Pike

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE)

• Multiple hazing deaths nationwide
• Texas A&M: Chemical burns case, 2021, $1M lawsuit
• UT Austin: 2024 assault case, $1M+ lawsuit
• Eliminated traditional pledge process in 2014 due to pattern
• Texas Presence: All five major universities

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

• Andrew Coffey: Florida State, 2017, alcohol poisoning death
• Leonel Bermudez: UH, 2025, rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, $10M lawsuit
• Texas Presence: UH (now closed), other campuses

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

• Max Gruver: LSU, 2017, “Bible study” drinking death, $6.1M verdict
• Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing)
• Texas Presence: Multiple campuses

How We Use National Patterns in Texas Cases

Our investigation includes:

1. Subpoenaing national records showing prior incidents
2. Proving foreseeability: “You knew this could happen because it happened at other chapters”
3. Overcoming “rogue chapter” defense: Showing national knew or should have known
4. Insurance coverage fights: National policies may provide additional recovery

For Cleveland families, this means your child’s case isn’t just about one night—it’s about holding accountable organizations that have seen this pattern before and failed to prevent it.

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: Public Records Reality

Most Cleveland parents don’t realize how many organizations operate behind the scenes. Using our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we maintain data on 1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metros.

Texas-Registered Greek Organizations (IRS B83 Data)

These 125+ Texas-registered entities include house corporations, alumni chapters, and honor societies—all potential defendants in hazing cases. Examples from public records:

• Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc (EIN 133048786) – College Station, TX 77845
• Gamma Phi Beta Sorority Inc (EIN 161675890) – The Woodlands, TX 77382
• Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN 462267515) – Frisco, TX 75035
• Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity Texas Gamma Chapter (EIN 911981478) – Fort Worth, TX 76109
• Psi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated (EIN 521345182) – Fort Worth, TX 76105

Houston Metro Greek Organizations (Relevant to Cleveland Families)

The Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro contains 188 Greek-related organizations. Examples include:

• Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Houston, TX
• Alpha Phi Omega – Bayou City Alumni – Houston, TX
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae – Houston, TX
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Alpha Kappa Omega – Houston, TX
• Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity – Eta Rho Sigma – Houston, TX

What This Data Means for Cleveland Families

1. Multiple layers of responsibility: Beyond the active members, there are alumni groups, housing corporations, and national entities
2. Insurance coverage tracking: Different organizations carry different insurance policies
3. Asset identification: We know where to look for recovery
4. Pattern establishment: Multiple chapters of same brand across Texas

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery

When Cleveland families come to us after a hazing incident, we follow a comprehensive investigation and litigation strategy proven in cases like Leonel Bermudez’s.

Critical Evidence Categories

Digital Communications (Most Important Today)

• GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord messages
• Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok content
• Deleted message recovery through digital forensics
• In the UH case: Group chats planning events, discussing punishments

Photos & Videos

• Content filmed during hazing events
• Social media posts and stories
• Security camera footage from houses/venues
• Injury documentation over time

Internal Organization Documents

• Pledge manuals, initiation scripts
• Emails/texts from officers about traditions
• National policies and training materials
• Risk management files

University Records

• Prior conduct files and probation records
• Incident reports to campus police
• Clery Act reports and Title IX documents
• Internal emails about the organization

Medical & Psychological Records

• Emergency room and hospitalization records
• Toxicology reports and lab results
• Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
• In the UH case: Creatine kinase levels proving rhabdomyolysis

The Defendant Universe in Hazing Cases

Individual Students

• Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts
• Officers with supervisory responsibility
• Members who participated in cover-ups

Local Chapter/Organization

• The chapter itself (if incorporated)
• Housing corporations
• Alumni associations

National Fraternity/Sorority

• Headquarters that set policies and receive dues
• Often have deepest pockets and insurance
• Can be liable for negligent supervision

University or Governing Board

• Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) with sovereign immunity considerations
• Private universities (SMU, Baylor) with different liability standards
• May be liable for deliberate indifference

Third Parties

• Property owners/landlords
• Alcohol providers (dram shop liability)
• Security companies or event organizers

Damages Recovery Framework

Economic Damages

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost educational opportunities
• Diminished earning capacity
• Property damage

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress, PTSD, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Wrongful Death Damages (When Applicable)

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of companionship and support
• Emotional harm to family members

Punitive Damages

• To punish particularly reckless or malicious conduct
• Available in certain circumstances under Texas law

Insurance Coverage Strategies

Fraternity and university insurance companies often fight hazing claims using:

1. Intentional acts exclusions: Arguing hazing is intentional, not negligent
2. Criminal acts exclusions: Citing criminal hazing statutes
3. Policy limit arguments: Claiming multiple incidents exhaust coverage
4. Notice issues: Saying claim wasn’t reported properly

Our insurance insider advantage (Mr. Peña’s background as an insurance defense attorney) helps us:

• Navigate these exclusions
• Identify all potential policies
• Fight wrongful denial of coverage
• Pursue bad faith claims when appropriate

Practical Guides for Cleveland Parents, Students, and Witnesses

For Cleveland Parents: Warning Signs and Action Steps

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

• Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
• Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
• Sudden secrecy about organization activities
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Withdrawal from family and old friends
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
• Academic performance decline
• Financial red flags (unexpected expenses)

How to Talk to Your Child

1. Choose the right time: When they’re home, relaxed, not rushed
2. Ask open questions: “How are things going with [organization]?”
3. Listen without judgment: If they open up, don’t interrupt with anger
4. Emphasize safety: “Your health matters more than any group”
5. Offer unconditional support: “We’ll help you no matter what”

If Your Child Is Injured

1. Medical care first: Even if they resist, get professional evaluation
2. Document everything: Photos, notes, messages
3. Preserve evidence: Don’t wash clothing, don’t delete messages
4. Contact an attorney: Before talking to university or insurance
5. Follow medical advice: Complete all recommended treatment

Dealing with the University

• Document every communication
• Ask specific questions about prior incidents
• Don’t sign anything without legal review
• Remember: University interests may conflict with your family’s

For Students in Cleveland and at Texas Schools

Is This Hazing? Quick Self-Assessment

• Do I feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced?
• Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
• Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Am I being told to keep secrets or lie?
• Are older members making me do things they don’t do?

If You Want to Exit Safely

1. Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend)
2. Send written resignation (email/text) to chapter leadership
3. Don’t go to “one last meeting” where pressure might occur
4. Document any retaliation and report immediately
5. Seek support from campus counseling or trusted adults

Evidence Preservation for Students

• Screenshot everything: Group chats, DMs, posts
• Photograph injuries immediately and over several days
• Save physical items: Clothing, objects used in hazing
• Write detailed notes while memory is fresh
• Seek medical care and mention hazing for documentation

For Former Members/Witnesses

If you participated in or witnessed hazing and now regret it:

Understanding Your Position

• You may feel guilt, fear, or conflicted loyalty
• Your testimony could prevent future harm
• You may need your own legal advice
• Cooperation can be part of making things right

How to Help Responsibly

1. Consult an attorney about your potential exposure
2. Preserve any evidence you still have
3. Consider anonymous reporting if safety is concern
4. Understand whistleblower protections in Texas
5. Focus on prevention: Your experience could save others

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

Through years of handling hazing cases across Texas, we’ve seen families make these common errors:

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages

• What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
• Reality: Looks like cover-up; can be obstruction of justice
• Better approach: Preserve everything, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

• What parents want: “I’ll give them a piece of my mind”
• Reality: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• Better approach: Document everything, call attorney first

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms

• What universities do: Pressure quick settlements with releases
• Reality: You may waive rights for minimal compensation
• Better approach: “I need my attorney to review this first”

4. Posting on Social Media

• What families feel: “I want people to know what happened”
• Reality: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; hurts credibility
• Better approach: Let your lawyer control public messaging

5. Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”

• What universities promise: “We’re investigating internally”
• Reality: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
• Better approach: Parallel investigation with legal counsel

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Unprepared

• What adjusters say: “We just need your statement”
• Reality: Recorded statements used against you; early lowball offers
• Better approach: “My attorney will contact you”

7. Letting Your Child Return for “One Last Meeting”

• What chapters propose: “Come talk to us before doing anything drastic”
• Reality: Pressure, intimidation, extracting damaging statements
• Better approach: Once considering legal action, all communication through attorney

Frequently Asked Questions for Cleveland Families

“Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity considerations, 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 is fact-specific—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, but 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 fear of exclusion isn’t true voluntary consent. This was a key factor in the Max Gruver case in Louisiana.

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

“What if the hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and foreseeability. The Pi Delta Psi case (Michael Deng) occurred at a remote retreat and still resulted in convictions and liability.

“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 it cost to hire Attorney911?”
We work on a contingency fee basis for hazing cases—no upfront costs, no fee unless we recover compensation for you. This makes justice accessible to Cleveland families regardless of financial situation.

Why Attorney911 for Cleveland Hazing Cases

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

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña)

• Former insurance defense attorney at a national firm
• Knows exactly how fraternity and university insurers value claims
• Understands their delay tactics, coverage arguments, and settlement strategies
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it”
• Fluent Spanish for Hispanic families in Cleveland and Liberty County

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Mr. Ralph Manginello)

• One of 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 or universities with unlimited budgets
• “We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations. We know how to fight powerful defendants.”

Proven Multi-Million Dollar Results

• Wrongful death and catastrophic injury track record
• Experience with economist collaboration for lifetime care needs
• “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability

• Mr. Manginello’s HCCLA membership (elite criminal defense credential)
• Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
• Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure

Investigative Depth

• Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
• Experience obtaining deleted messages, hidden records, internal files
• “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine

Unlike other firms, we maintain a proprietary database of:

1. 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros
2. IRS records on 125+ Texas-registered Greek entities
3. University disciplinary histories at major Texas campuses
4. National pattern evidence from decades of cases
5. Insurance coverage mapping for potential defendants

This means Cleveland families don’t start from zero. We already know the organizations, their histories, and how to find the evidence that matters.

Our Approach to Hazing Cases

1. Immediate Response: Evidence preservation within first 48 hours
2. Comprehensive Investigation: Digital forensics, witness interviews, record requests
3. Strategic Defendant Identification: Beyond obvious parties to all potentially liable entities
4. Expert Collaboration: Medical, psychological, economic experts as needed
5. Aggressive Litigation: Prepared for trial but strategic about settlement
6. Family-Centered Advocacy: Your child’s wellbeing guides every decision

Take Action: Contact Attorney911 Today

If your child has been hazed at any Texas campus—whether they’re at UH just an hour away in Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other Texas school—you have rights and options.

Cleveland families don’t have to face powerful universities and national fraternities alone. The active $10 million Leonel Bermudez case against UH and Pi Kappa Phi proves that accountability is possible, but it requires experienced legal representation.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

When you contact Attorney911:

1. We Listen: Your story, without judgment or interruption
2. We Review: Any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, messages, medical records)
3. We Explain: Your legal options clearly and honestly
4. We Answer: Your questions about process, timeline, and what to expect
5. No Pressure: Take time to decide what’s right for your family
6. Confidentiality: Everything you share is protected

Contact Information

Call Now for Immediate Help:

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

Online:

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

Serving Cleveland and All of Texas:

• Houston Office (Primary)
• Austin Office
• Beaumont Office
• Serving families statewide

Whether you’re in Cleveland, Dayton, Splendora, or anywhere in Liberty County or East Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions involved have experienced lawyers—you should too.

Call Attorney911 today. Let us help you get answers, hold the right people accountable, and prevent this from happening to another family.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of the Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Lawsuit:

1. Click2Houston (KPRC 2) — “‘Urine was brown’: Pledge sues over severe hazing at University of Houston’s shut down Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”

• URL: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/

1. ABC13 Eyewitness News (KTRK) — “Waterboarding, forced eating, physical punishment: Lawsuit alleges abuse faced by injured pledge at UH’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”

• URL: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/

1. Hoodline — “University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Face $10M Lawsuit Over Alleged Hazing and Abuse”

• URL: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos:

1. “📱 Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case? | Attorney911 Explains”

• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

1. “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case? | Attorney911 with Injury Lawyer Ralph Manginello”

• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

1. “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case | Attorney911 with Ralph Manginello”

• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

1. “📢 How Do Contingency Fees Work? Injury Lawyer Explains!”

• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

1. Attorney911 — Main Website & Contact

• URL: https://attorney911.com

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