Hazing in Texas: A Complete Guide for Azle Parents & Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, This Guide Explains Your Legal Rights

We help parents in Azle, Weatherford, Springtown, and across Tarrant County navigate the nightmare of campus hazing. Right now, we’re leading one of Texas’s most serious active hazing lawsuits—the $10 million case against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi involving pledge Leonel Bermudez, who suffered kidney failure from brutal hazing. If your child has been injured in connection with fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, athletics, or campus organizations anywhere in Texas, you are not alone. We are The Manginello Law Firm (Attorney911), and we help Texas families hold powerful institutions accountable.

Immediate Help for Hazing Emergencies

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

1. Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine”
2. Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
   • Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
   • Photograph injuries from multiple angles
   • Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
3. Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
4. 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 This Guide Covers for Azle Families

This comprehensive guide explains hazing laws, cases, and rights specifically for families in Azle, Tarrant County, and throughout Texas. Whether your child attends the University of Texas at Arlington right here in Tarrant County, Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, or any Texas campus, this information applies. We’ll cover:

• What hazing really looks like in 2025 (beyond stereotypes)
• Texas hazing laws and how they protect your child
• Major national cases that shape Texas litigation
• What’s happening at Texas universities where Azle families send students
• How fraternity/sorority national histories create liability
• Building a strong case with evidence that matters
• Practical steps for parents and students
• Why Attorney911 is uniquely qualified for Texas hazing cases

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

Hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or harmless tradition. Modern hazing involves calculated coercion, digital surveillance, and psychological manipulation that can cause permanent injury or death. For Azle families with children at Texas universities, understanding these evolving tactics is crucial.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (Often Dismissed as “Tradition”)

• 24/7 digital control: Constant GroupMe messages requiring immediate responses, location-sharing demands via Find My Friends
• Servitude requirements: Acting as designated drivers at all hours, cleaning members’ rooms, running personal errands
• Social isolation: Cutting off contact with non-members, requiring permission for social activities
• Sleep interference: Mandatory late-night meetings during exam weeks
• “Optional” events that are socially mandatory

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Creates Hostile Environment)

• Sleep deprivation: Wake-up calls at 3 AM for “mandatory activities,” multi-day events with minimal sleep
• Food/water manipulation: Forced consumption of spoiled food, hot sauce, excessive bland foods
• Extreme physical exertion: “Smokings” with hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse, forced runs
• Public humiliation: Embarrassing costumes, public performances, “roasting” sessions
• Digital shaming: Forced social media posts, TikTok challenges, group chat mockery

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (High Risk of Serious Injury or Death)

• Forced alcohol consumption: “Lineup” drinking games, Big/Little nights with handles of liquor, “Bible study” drinking quizzes
• Physical beatings: Paddling, punching, kicking, “branding” with burns or cuts
• Dangerous physical tests: Blindfolded tackle rituals (“glass ceiling”), forced fights, swimming while intoxicated
• Sexualized hazing: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault or coercion
• Chemical exposure: Industrial cleaners poured on skin (as in Texas A&M SAE case causing chemical burns)
• Extreme environment exposure: Locked in freezing rooms, left outside in extreme weather

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

Hazing extends far beyond stereotypical fraternity parties. In Texas universities attended by Azle students, hazing occurs in:

• Fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
• Corps of Cadets programs (especially at Texas A&M)
• Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer)
• Spirit organizations (Texas Cowboys, Absolute Texxas at UT)
• Marching bands and performance groups
• Academic and service organizations

The common thread: power imbalance, tradition used as justification, and secrecy enforced through social pressure.

Texas Hazing Laws: What Azle Families Need to Know

Texas has specific anti-hazing statutes in the Education Code that protect students at both public and private universities. These laws apply whether hazing occurs on-campus in College Station or at an off-campus house in Austin—and they protect students from Azle as much as those from Houston or Dallas.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hazing Statute

§ 37.151 Definition: Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any organization that:

• Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student
• Occurs on or off campus
• “Consent is not a defense” (explicitly stated in § 37.155)

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (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

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability: Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation and face revocation of university recognition.

§ 37.154 Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting: Individuals who report hazing in good faith are immune from civil or criminal liability—this protects bystanders who call for help.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

• Brought by the state (district attorney)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Charges may include: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter
• Burden of proof: Beyond a reasonable doubt

Civil Cases:

• Brought by victims or families
• Aim: Compensation and accountability
• Claims may include: negligence, wrongful death, emotional distress, premises liability
• Burden of proof: Preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not)

Critical Point: These cases can proceed simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t required for a civil case, and a criminal acquittal doesn’t bar civil recovery.

Federal Laws That Apply

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents transparently, strengthen prevention programs, and maintain public hazing data by 2026.

Title IX: When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger mandatory investigations and potential federal liability.

Clery Act: Requires reporting of certain crimes and maintaining campus safety statistics—hazing incidents often overlap with assault, alcohol, or drug violations.

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Case?

1. Individual Students: Those who planned, participated in, or covered up hazing
2. Chapter Officers: Presidents, pledge educators, risk managers with supervisory responsibility
3. Local Chapters: The fraternity/sorority chapter as an entity
4. National Organizations: Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
5. Universities: For negligent supervision, deliberate indifference, or policy failures
6. Property Owners: Landlords of off-campus houses, Airbnb hosts, venue owners
7. Alcohol Providers: Under Texas dram shop laws if they overserved minors

The Leonel Bermudez Case: Texas Hazing Litigation in Action

Right now, we’re fighting one of Texas’s most serious active hazing cases. This isn’t a historical example—this is what we’re doing today for a Texas family, and it shows exactly how we approach hazing litigation for Azle families.

The Case: Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston & Pi Kappa Phi

In November 2025, we filed a $10 million lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after brutal hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter.

What Happened:

• Forced “pledge fanny pack”: Bermudez was required to carry condoms, a sex toy, nicotine devices, and humiliating items 24/7
• Extreme physical abuse: Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, cold-weather exposure in underwear, lying in vomit-soaked grass
• Simulated waterboarding: Sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding” with threats of actual waterboarding
• Forced consumption rituals: Made to drink milk, eat hot dogs and peppercorns until vomiting, then immediate sprints
• The November 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion
• Medical consequences: Developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown), passed brown urine, hospitalized for four days with acute kidney failure, faces permanent kidney damage risk

Who We’re Holding Accountable:

1. University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents
2. Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
3. Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu housing corporation
4. 13 individual fraternity leaders (president, pledgemaster, risk manager, etc.)

Institutional Responses:

• November 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspends Beta Nu chapter
• November 14, 2025: Chapter members vote to surrender charter; chapter permanently closed
• UH calls conduct “deeply disturbing,” promises disciplinary action up to expulsion, cooperates with law enforcement

Why This Matters for Azle Families:
This case demonstrates exactly what serious hazing litigation looks like in Texas. We’re not just talking about theory—we’re actively taking on a major university and national fraternity right now. The same legal strategies, investigative techniques, and institutional knowledge we’re using in Houston apply equally to cases involving Azle students at any Texas campus.

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

Major national hazing cases establish legal precedents and reveal patterns that regularly repeat at Texas universities. Understanding these cases helps Azle families recognize dangerous patterns and understand what successful litigation looks like.

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Common Fatal Pattern

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

• Forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
• Died from alcohol poisoning
• $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
• Takeaway for Texas: “Big/Little” drinking traditions are predictable, preventable, and lead to massive liability

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• Forced drinking during “Bible study” game (wrong answers = drink)
• Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
• $6.1 million verdict against fraternity members
• Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony
• Takeaway for Texas: Drinking games disguised as “education” are still lethal hazing

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

• Pledge given handle of liquor during “Big Brother Night”
• Died from acute alcohol poisoning
• FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
• Takeaway for Texas: National fraternities like Pi Kappa Phi (present at UH, Texas A&M, UT) repeat dangerous traditions across chapters

Physical Hazing Patterns

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

• Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
• Died from traumatic brain injury; help delayed
• National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
• Pi Delta Psi banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
• Takeaway for Texas: Off-campus “retreats” don’t eliminate liability; national organizations face criminal prosecution

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

• Forced to consume excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”
• Suffered severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
• Settlements with 22 defendants, reportedly multi-million dollar
• Takeaway for Texas: Non-fatal injuries can cause lifetime disability with massive damages

Athletic Hazing Patterns

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

• Widespread sexualized, racist hazing within football program
• Multiple lawsuits against university; head coach fired
• Confidential settlement with fired coach
• Takeaway for Texas: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to big-money athletic programs

What These Cases Mean for Azle Families

These national patterns repeat at Texas universities. The same fraternities, the same “traditions,” the same institutional failures occur here. When we see:

• Pi Kappa Alpha hazing at UH or Texas A&M, we know about their national pattern from Stone Foltz’s death
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon incidents at UT Austin, we know about their national history of traumatic brain injury cases
• Corps of Cadets hazing at Texas A&M, we understand the military-style hazing patterns

This national context matters because it establishes foreseeability—these organizations knew or should have known the risks based on what happened at other chapters.

Texas Universities: Where Azle Families Send Their Kids

Azle families have children across Texas campuses. Whether your student attends the University of Texas at Arlington right here in Tarrant County, commutes to TCU in Fort Worth, or studies at Texas A&M, UT Austin, UH, SMU, or Baylor, these campuses have documented hazing incidents and established response patterns.

University of Texas at Arlington (In Tarrant County)

For Azle Families: UTA is just minutes from Azle in neighboring Arlington. Many Azle students commute to UTA, making hazing incidents here directly relevant to our community.

Campus Context:

• Large public university with growing Greek life
• Part of UT System but with distinct campus culture
• Commuter-heavy but with increasing residential population

Documented Hazing Incidents:

• Sigma Chi (2020): Pledge hospitalized with alcohol poisoning from hazing; lawsuit settled August 2021
• Various Greek organizations regularly appear on conduct probation for hazing violations

Reporting Systems:

• Office of Student Conduct
• UTA Police Department
• Online reporting forms

What Azle Families Should Know:

• Hazing incidents at UTA fall under Tarrant County jurisdiction for criminal cases
• Civil suits typically filed in Tarrant County courts
• University responds through Student Conduct process, which may run parallel to criminal investigations
• Immediate action: Contact UTA PD for criminal incidents, preserve digital evidence, consult attorney familiar with Tarrant County courts

Texas Christian University (Fort Worth, Tarrant County)

For Azle Families: TCU is in Fort Worth, directly serving Tarrant County families. Its prominent Greek life and athletic programs make hazing awareness critical for Azle parents.

Campus Context:

• Private university with strong Greek tradition
• Approximately 50% of students join fraternities/sororities
• Active athletic programs with hazing risks

Documented Hazing Incidents:

• Kappa Sigma (2018): Member arrested for allegedly hazing pledges
• Various Greek organizations on disciplinary probation
• Athletic team hazing investigations (often handled internally)

TCU’s Approach:

• Greek Life office manages investigations
• Often uses “internal resolution” before involving police
• Less transparent than public universities about violations

What Azle Families Should Know:

• As a private university, TCU has different liability considerations than public schools
• Fort Worth Police Department may have jurisdiction over off-campus incidents
• Critical: Do not rely solely on TCU’s internal process—preserve evidence and consult attorney early

Texas A&M University (College Station)

For Azle Families: Many Azle students attend Texas A&M, drawn by its academic reputation and tradition. The Corps of Cadets and strong Greek life create multiple hazing risk environments.

Campus Context:

• Large public university with deep tradition
• Prominent Corps of Cadets program
• Extensive Greek system with historical hazing issues

Documented Hazing 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 for $1 million; fraternity suspended for two years
• Takeaway: Hazing methods evolve to include chemical exposure

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; A&M stated it handled matter internally
• Takeaway: Corps traditions can cross into abusive hazing

Kappa Sigma Rhabdomyolysis Case (2023, ongoing):

• Allegations of extreme physical hazing causing rhabdomyolysis
• Ongoing litigation focused on kidney injury recovery
• Takeaway: Extreme exercise hazing causes specific medical injuries we understand

Texas A&M’s Response Pattern:

• Student Conduct office investigates
• Corps has separate disciplinary system
• Often attempts internal resolution before legal involvement
• Public transparency limited compared to UT Austin

What Azle Families Should Know:

• Brazos County jurisdiction for local incidents
• University sometimes asserts sovereign immunity as state institution
• Evidence critical: Corps and Greek life both enforce strict codes of silence
• Our experience: We understand A&M’s unique culture and how to investigate within it

University of Texas at Austin

For Azle Families: UT Austin attracts Azle students for its academic excellence. Its transparent hazing reporting provides unique insight into campus patterns.

Campus Context:

• Flagship UT campus with extensive Greek life
• Public hazing violations page (hazing.utexas.edu)
• Approximately 60 fraternity/sorority chapters

Public Hazing Violations (Examples from UT’s Website):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023):

• New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
• Found to be hazing
• Sanction: Probation, required hazing prevention education
• Pattern: Similar to UH Pi Kappa Phi milk consumption hazing

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (January 2024):

• Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted 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
• Pattern: SAE’s national history of violence repeating at UT

“Absolute Texxas” Spirit Group (2022):

• Disciplined for hazing including alcohol/drug misconduct, blindfolding, kidnapping, degrading acts
• Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to spirit organizations

UT’s Transparent Approach:

• Maintains public hazing violations log
• Generally cooperates with Austin Police Department
• Student Conduct office conducts investigations
• Strength: Public record helps establish pattern evidence in lawsuits

What Azle Families Should Know:

• Travis County jurisdiction for local incidents
• UT’s public records can significantly strengthen civil cases
• Act quickly: UT investigations can compromise evidence if not handled properly
• Our strategy: We use UT’s own transparency against them when they fail to act on known patterns

University of Houston

For Azle Families: UH attracts many North Texas students, including from Azle. Our active litigation there gives us unique insight into their hazing environment.

Campus Context:

• Large urban commuter campus with active Greek life
• Multiple Greek councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, MGC)
• History of hazing incidents leading to chapter suspensions

Documented Incidents Beyond Our Active Case:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2016):

• Pledges deprived of food, water, sleep during multi-day event
• One student suffered lacerated spleen after being slammed onto table
• Chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and suspension
• Pattern: Physical violence in PIKE chapters regionally

Multiple Chapter Suspensions:

• Various fraternities suspended for “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort”
• Alcohol misuse and policy violations common
• Pattern: Recurring issues despite suspensions

UH’s Response Pattern:

• Generally suspends chapters when incidents surface
• Cooperates with Houston Police Department
• Less public transparency than UT Austin
• Our inside knowledge: From our active litigation, we understand UH’s internal processes

What Azle Families Should Know:

• Harris County jurisdiction for local incidents
• UH sometimes asserts sovereign immunity as state institution
• Critical timing: Evidence preservation is urgent—chapters quickly destroy evidence
• Our advantage: We’re currently litigating against UH and understand their defense strategies

Southern Methodist University (Dallas)

For Azle Families: SMU’s proximity to Azle makes it a common choice for local students. Its affluent Greek culture has documented hazing issues.

Campus Context:

• Private university with strong Greek tradition
• Approximately 40% of students join fraternities/sororities
• Less transparent than public universities

Documented Incidents:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017):

• New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, deprived of sleep
• Chapter suspended; restrictions until approximately 2021
• Pattern: KA’s national hazing history manifesting at SMU

Various Greek Organizations:

• Periodic suspensions for hazing violations
• Details often kept confidential by private university
• Pattern: Recurring despite “zero tolerance” policies

SMU’s Approach:

• Greek Life office handles investigations
• Often uses confidential resolution processes
• Real Response anonymous reporting system
• Challenge: Less public accountability than state schools

What Azle Families Should Know:

• Dallas County jurisdiction for local incidents
• As private university, different liability rules apply
• Evidence critical: SMU’s internal processes can compromise evidence
• Our experience: We know how to navigate private university defenses

Baylor University (Waco)

For Azle Families: Baylor’s religious identity attracts some Azle families, but its history of institutional misconduct issues requires vigilance.

Campus Context:

• Private Christian university
• History of Title IX and sexual assault scandal
• Greek life and athletic hazing risks

Documented Incidents:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020):

• 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
• Suspensions staggered over early season
• Pattern: Athletic hazing handled internally

Various Greek Incidents:

• Periodic disciplinary actions
• Details often confidential due to private status
• Pattern: Recurring despite religious branding

Baylor’s Complex History:

• Prior institutional failure on sexual assault cases
• “Zero tolerance” rhetoric vs. actual enforcement
• Our assessment: Requires careful, evidence-based approach

What Azle Families Should Know:

• McLennan County jurisdiction for local incidents
• Baylor’s religious status doesn’t eliminate liability
• Critical: Do not rely on Baylor’s internal processes alone
• Our approach: We investigate thoroughly regardless of institutional branding

Fraternity & Sorority National Histories: Why They Matter for Azle Families

The national organizations behind campus chapters have documented hazing histories that create legal liability. When the same fraternity hazes at multiple universities, it shows a pattern that national headquarters knew or should have known about.

Organizations Present at Texas Universities with National Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ) – “Pike”

• At: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
• National History: Stone Foltz death ($10M settlement), David Bogenberger death ($14M settlement)
• Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing, physical abuse
• Liability Angle: Nationals had notice from prior deaths but failed to prevent repeats

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) – “SAE”

• At: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU
• National History: Traumatic brain injury case (Alabama), chemical burns (Texas A&M), assault (UT Austin)
• Pattern: Physical violence, chemical exposure, alcohol hazing
• Liability Angle: Multiple Texas incidents show pattern nationals should have addressed

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

• At: UH (our active case), Texas A&M
• National History: Andrew Coffey death (FSU), our active UH kidney failure case
• Pattern: Extreme physical hazing, forced consumption
• Liability Angle: Our active litigation shows nationals failed to prevent known risks

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

• At: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
• National History: Max Gruver death ($6.1M verdict), Louisiana felony law
• Pattern: “Bible study” drinking games, alcohol hazing
• Liability Angle: Nationals knew deadly pattern but chapters repeat it

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)

• At: Texas A&M, SMU
• National History: SMU paddling suspension, multiple campus incidents
• Pattern: Physical paddling, alcohol hazing
• Liability Angle: Traditional paddling persists despite national prohibitions

How National Histories Create Legal Liability

Foreseeability Doctrine: If a national organization had prior incidents showing a dangerous pattern, they can’t claim “we didn’t know this could happen.” Our active UH case uses this against Pi Kappa Phi national.

Negligent Supervision: Nationals collect dues, provide materials, and exercise control over chapters. If they fail to adequately supervise, they’re negligent.

Pattern Evidence: Multiple incidents at different chapters show the national knew or should have known about systemic issues.

Punitive Damages: When nationals ignore known patterns, courts may award punitive damages to punish recklessness.

Public Records: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Connected to Texas Campuses

We maintain a Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracking over 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros. This data helps us identify all potentially liable entities in hazing cases. Below are examples from public records relevant to campuses Azle students attend:

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro (Includes Tarrant County)

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity

• Fort Worth, TX 76244
• IRS EIN: 742911848
• Fraternity foundation in Fort Worth

Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc

• Fort Worth, TX 76147-0061
• IRS EIN: 741380362
• Kappa Sigma housing foundation

Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Texas District

• Houston, TX (Alumni/house corp.)
• IRS EIN: 746064445
• Alumni association supporting Texas chapters

University-Specific Entities

University of Houston Area:

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Beta Sigma Chapter: Houston, TX (Undergrad chapter)
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Alpha Kappa Omega: Houston, TX (Grad chapter)
• Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity – Eta Rho Sigma: Houston, TX (Grad chapter)

Texas A&M University Area:

• Sigma Chi Fraternity – Eta Upsilon Chapter: College Station, TX (Texas A&M chapter)
• Beta Theta Pi – Eta Chapter House Corp.: College Station, TX
• Delta Sigma Theta – Brazos Valley Alumnae: College Station, TX

UT Austin Area:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Rho Corp.: Austin, TX (UT chapter house corp.)
• Delta Tau Delta – Gamma Iota Chapter: Austin, TX (UT chapter house)
• Beta Xi House Corp. of Kappa Kappa Gamma: Austin, TX (UT chapter house corp.)

Legal Significance: These entities may hold insurance, own property, or exercise control over chapters. Identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial for full recovery.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy & Damages

Successfully pursuing a hazing case requires systematic evidence collection, strategic defendant selection, and thorough damages calculation. Here’s how we approach cases for Azle families:

Critical Evidence Categories

1. Digital Communications (Most Important Evidence)

• Group messages: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack
• Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook Messenger
• Recovered data: Deleted messages via digital forensics
• What it shows: Planning, participation, knowledge, cover-up attempts

2. Photo & Video Evidence

• Event footage: Videos taken during hazing
• Injury documentation: Photos immediately after and during healing
• Location evidence: House interiors, specific rooms, alcohol supplies
• Object evidence: Paddles, props, costumes

3. Medical Documentation

• Emergency records: ER reports, ambulance records
• Lab results: Blood alcohol, toxicology, kidney function (critical for rhabdomyolysis)
• Imaging: X-rays, CT scans, MRIs
• Psychological evaluations: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses
• Future care plans: For permanent injuries like brain damage

4. Institutional Records

• University files: Prior conduct violations, warning letters, probation records
• National fraternity records: Incident reports, risk management files, training materials
• Police reports: Campus PD and local department incident reports

5. Witness Testimony

• Other pledges: Often afraid but may cooperate with protection
• Former members: Those who quit or were expelled
• Roommates/RAs: Observed changes or injuries
• Medical personnel: Treatment providers

Our Investigative Process

Phase 1: Immediate Evidence Preservation (Days 1-7)

• Digital forensics to recover deleted messages
• Subpoena for phone records and social media data
• Secure physical evidence before destruction
• Interview witnesses while memories fresh

Phase 2: Institutional Discovery (Weeks 2-8)

• Public records requests to university
• Preservation letters to national fraternities
• Subpoena for prior incident reports
• Identify all potentially liable entities

Phase 3: Case Building (Months 2-6)

• Medical expert review of injuries
• Economic analysis of damages
• Legal research on similar cases
• Demand package preparation

Damage Categories in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical expenses: Past and future treatment
• Lost income: Current and future earning capacity
• Educational costs: Missed semesters, transferred schools, lost scholarships
• Property damage: Destroyed items during hazing

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm):

• Physical pain: From injuries
• Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment: Can’t participate in college life or activities
• Reputational harm: Social stigma

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

• Funeral/burial costs
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship, love, society
• Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering

Punitive Damages (When Available):

• Purpose: Punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
• When awarded: Defendants ignored prior warnings, showed callous indifference
• Texas caps: Generally limited but can be significant in gross negligence cases

Settlement vs. Trial Strategy

Most Cases Settle Confidentially:

• Avoids public trial exposure for victim
• Provides faster resolution
• Guarantees recovery (no trial risk)
• Often includes institutional reform requirements

When We Prepare for Trial:

• Defendants refuse reasonable settlement
• Public accountability is important to family
• Case could establish important legal precedent
• Our readiness: We try cases when necessary

Practical Guides for Azle Parents, Students & Witnesses

For Parents: Warning Signs & Action Steps

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts (especially on buttocks, back, hands)
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Weight changes from forced eating/drinking or stress
• Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
• Injuries consistent with paddling or extreme exercise
• Chemical burns or skin damage
• Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if child doesn’t normally drink)

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

• Sudden secrecy about organization activities
• Withdrawal from family and non-member friends
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Defensive when asked about the organization
• Constant phone checking for group chat messages
• Talking about “just getting through” initiation
• Financial stress from forced purchases or “fines”

Academic Red Flags:

• Grades dropping suddenly
• Missing classes or falling asleep in class
• Skipping assignments for “mandatory” events
• Losing scholarships or academic standing

What to Do If You Suspect Hazing:

1. Talk to Your Child Non-Confrontationally:

   • “How are things going with [organization]?”
   • “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
   • “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
   • “Do you feel like you could leave if you wanted to?”

2. If They Open Up:

   • Listen without judgment
   • Assure them it’s not their fault
   • Get medical attention if injured
   • Preserve evidence immediately
   • Contact an attorney

3. If They Shut Down:

   • Don’t force conversation
   • Monitor closely
   • Watch for danger signs
   • Be ready to intervene if safety concerns

Reporting Options:

• Campus authorities: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct
• Local police: If crimes occurred (assault, furnishing alcohol to minors)
• Campus police: For on-campus incidents
• National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous)
• Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (legal guidance)

For Students: Safety Planning & Rights

Is This Hazing? Ask Yourself:

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

If You Answer “Yes” – It’s Hazing

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

• You can’t be punished for calling 911 in an emergency (good-faith immunity)
• Consent is not a defense to hazing under Texas law
• You can sue even if you “agreed” to participate
• The statute of limitations is generally 2 years from injury

How to Exit Safely:

1. If in immediate danger: Call 911
2. Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend)
3. Send written resignation to chapter president (email/text for record)
4. Do NOT go to “one last meeting” – that’s where pressure happens
5. Document any retaliation (screenshots, recordings, witnesses)

Evidence Collection Guide:

Digital Evidence:

• Screenshot everything: Group chats, DMs, emails
• Include context: Show messages before/after, timestamps, participants
• Back up immediately: Cloud storage, email to yourself
• If messages disappear: Screenshot AS YOU SEE THEM

Medical Evidence:

• Seek medical care even for “minor” injuries
• Tell providers you were hazed so it’s documented
• Request copies of all records
• Follow up with specialists for ongoing issues

Physical Evidence:

• Photograph injuries from multiple angles
• Use scale (coin, ruler) in photos
• Photograph over days to show progression
• Save clothing/objects from hazing (don’t wash)

Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages

   • Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up, destroys crucial evidence
   • What to do: Preserve everything, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

   • Why it’s wrong: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
   • What to do: Document everything, call attorney first

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms

   • Why it’s wrong: May waive legal rights, settlements often too low
   • What to do: NEVER sign without attorney review

4. Posting on Social Media

   • Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything, hurts credibility
   • What to do: Document privately, let attorney control messaging

5. Letting Your Child Attend “One Last Meeting”

   • Why it’s wrong: Pressure, intimidation, extracted statements
   • What to do: Once considering legal action, all communication through attorney

6. Waiting for University Investigation

   • Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
   • What to do: Preserve evidence NOW, consult attorney immediately

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters

   • Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements used against you, lowball settlements
   • What to do: “My attorney will contact you”

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how universities and national fraternities fight back—and how to win anyway. Here’s why The Manginello Law Firm (Attorney911) is uniquely qualified for Texas hazing litigation:

Our Competitive Advantages

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

• Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Use delay tactics to pressure families
• Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

2. Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello)

• BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendant
• Federal Court Experience: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Not Intimidated: We’ve taken on corporations with unlimited legal budgets
  [Learn more about Ralph Manginello’s background at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/\]

3. Active Texas Hazing Litigation Experience
Right now, we’re leading the Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi case—a $10 million lawsuit involving kidney failure from hazing. This isn’t historical experience; it’s what we’re doing today.

4. Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience
We’ve recovered millions in complex wrongful death cases. We work with economists to value young lives and lifetime care needs for catastrophic injuries.

5. Criminal + Civil Hazing Capability

• Ralph’s HCCLA membership (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association)
• Understands how criminal charges interact with civil litigation
• Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure

6. Investigative Depth

• Digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages
• Medical experts for rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD
• Greek life culture experts to explain coercion dynamics
• Institutional policy experts to show negligence

7. Texas-Specific Expertise

• Offices in Houston, Austin, Beaumont
• Understand Texas sovereign immunity issues
• Know Texas courts and procedures
• Spanish-language services available (Lupe Peña speaks fluent Spanish)

How We Approach Hazing Cases Differently

We Investigate Like Your Child’s Life Depends On It – Because It Does

Phase 1: Immediate Evidence Lockdown

• Digital forensics within 24-48 hours
• Preservation letters to prevent evidence destruction
• Witness interviews before coaching begins

Phase 2: Institutional Pattern Investigation

• Public records requests for prior incidents
• Subpoena national fraternity risk files
• Identify all potentially liable entities

Phase 3: Medical & Economic Analysis

• Specialist review of injuries like rhabdomyolysis
• Lifetime care cost calculations for permanent injuries
• Economic loss analysis for young victims

Phase 4: Strategic Litigation

• Sue the right defendants (individuals, chapter, national, university)
• Navigate insurance coverage fights
• Prepare for trial while seeking fair settlement

Our Commitment to Azle Families

We serve families throughout Texas, including Azle, Weatherford, Springtown, and all Tarrant County communities. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects our local community, and we’re committed to holding powerful institutions accountable right here in North Texas.

Call to Action for Azle Families

If your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Whether they attend UT Arlington right here in Tarrant County, Texas A&M, UT Austin, UH, SMU, Baylor, or any other Texas university, you have the right to answers and accountability.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

When you contact Attorney911:

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

Contact Attorney911 Today

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com

Spanish Services Available:
Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

Attorney911 Main Website: https://attorney911.com

Educational Videos:

• Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
• Texas Statute of Limitations Explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• How Contingency Fees Work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc
• Using Your Phone to Document Evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

News Coverage of Our Active UH Case:

• Click2Houston Report: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
• ABC13 Coverage: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
• Hoodline Summary: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

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