Hazing Lawsuits in Texas: A Complete Guide for Pecos Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You Are Not Alone

For families in Pecos, the journey to college is a proud milestone. Your student leaves the wide-open skies of West Texas for campuses in Austin, College Station, Houston, or beyond, seeking education, opportunity, and community. But what happens when the quest for belonging turns dangerous? Imagine your son, a new member of a fraternity, being forced to consume excessive amounts of alcohol until he collapses. Or your daughter, joining a sorority, enduring sleep deprivation and humiliating rituals in the name of “sisterhood.” When the call comes—or when your child returns home to Pecos broken, injured, or traumatized—you face a nightmare no parent expects.

Right now, in Houston, our firm is actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in the country. In late 2025, we filed a $10 million lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who was hazed by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. The allegations are shocking: forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting; being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”; extreme physical workouts including 100+ push-ups and 500 squats; and being forced to lie in vomit-soaked grass. Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, passing brown urine and requiring four days of hospitalization. He faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. The Pi Kappa Phi chapter has been shut down, and the University of Houston called the conduct “deeply disturbing.” This is happening right now in Texas.

This guide is written specifically for parents and families in Pecos, Reeves County, and throughout West Texas who need to understand:

• What modern hazing really looks like (far beyond the old stereotypes)
• How Texas hazing laws protect your child and what legal options you have
• What we’ve learned from major national hazing deaths and injuries
• What’s happening at Texas universities where Pecos families send their children
• How fraternity and sorority national histories create patterns of danger
• What evidence matters and how to build a strong case for accountability
• Practical steps to take right now if you suspect your child is being hazed

If your child attends Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, University of Houston, Southern Methodist University, Baylor University, or any other Texas campus, this information is critical. Even if your student is far from Pecos at school, Texas hazing law and experienced Texas counsel can help.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like in Texas

For Pecos families unfamiliar with modern Greek life and campus culture, hazing has evolved far beyond the “animal house” stereotypes. Today’s hazing is more digital, more psychological, and often disguised as “tradition” or “team building.”

The Modern Definition of Hazing

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

Main Categories of Hazing Today

Alcohol and Substance Hazing:

• Forced or coerced drinking games (“lineups,” “century club,” “big/little nights”)
• Pledges given handles of liquor and told to finish them
• Being pressured to consume unknown substances or drug mixtures

Physical Hazing:

• Paddling, beatings, or physical assaults
• Extreme calisthenics (“smokings”) far beyond normal conditioning
• Sleep deprivation for days
• Food/water restriction or forced consumption of disgusting substances
• Exposure to extreme temperatures (locked in freezers, left outside in cold)

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing:

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

Psychological Hazing:

• Verbal abuse, screaming, threats
• Social isolation from non-members
• Forced confessions or sharing of personal information
• Public shaming in meetings or on social media

Digital/Online Hazing:

• Group chat dares and “challenges” (Snapchat, GroupMe, Discord)
• Pressure to create or share compromising photos/videos
• Social media humiliation campaigns
• 24/7 availability demands with instant response expectations

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

Hazing isn’t limited to fraternities. In Texas, we see it in:

• Fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
• Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs
• Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer, etc.)
• Spirit squads and tradition groups (Texas Cowboys, etc.)
• Marching bands and performance groups
• Some academic, service, and cultural organizations

For Pecos families, understanding that hazing can occur in prestigious programs and “respectable” organizations is crucial. The common threads are social status, tradition, and secrecy that keep these practices alive even when everyone knows hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law: What Pecos Families Need to Know

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws that govern cases involving your child, whether they’re attending school in Houston, College Station, Austin, or elsewhere.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37 (Hazing Provisions)

Definition (§ 37.151):
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

Plain English for Pecos Parents:
If someone makes your child do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk, that’s hazing under Texas law.

Key Points:

• Can happen on or off campus (location doesn’t matter)
• Can be mental or physical harm
• Intent: Doesn’t have to be malicious; “reckless” is enough (knew the risk and did it anyway)
• “Consent” is not a defense: Even if your child agreed, it’s still hazing if it meets the definition

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152)

• Class B Misdemeanor (default): Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000)
• Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes injury that requires medical treatment
• State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death

Also Criminal:

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

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153)

Organizations (fraternities, sororities, clubs, teams) can be criminally prosecuted for hazing if:

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

Penalties for Orgs:

• Fine up to $10,000 per violation
• University can revoke recognition and ban the org from campus

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (§ 37.154)

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.

Important for Pecos Students:
In medical emergencies, Texas law and many university policies provide amnesty for students who call 911, even if they were drinking underage or involved in the hazing themselves. This encourages reporting without fear of getting in trouble.

Consent Not a Defense (§ 37.155)

It is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the hazing activity.

Plain English:
Even if your child said “yes” or “I want to do this,” it’s still a crime if it meets the hazing definition. This directly rebuts the #1 defense fraternities use (“they agreed to it”).

Criminal vs Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

• Brought by the state (prosecutor)
• Aim: punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Typical hazing-related charges: hazing, 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 hiring/supervision, premises liability, emotional distress

Critical Point: Both types can run side-by-side, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Many families in Texas pursue civil cases even when prosecutors decline to file criminal charges.

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

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

• Requires colleges that receive federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently
• Strengthens hazing education and prevention
• Maintains public hazing data (phased in by around 2026)

Title IX / Clery:

• When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations can be triggered
• Clery requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics; hazing incidents often overlap with assaults or alcohol/drug crimes

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students:

• Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out the acts, or helped cover them up

Local Chapter / Organization:

• The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if it’s a legal entity)
• Individuals acting as officers or “pledge educators”

National Fraternity/Sorority:

• Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
• Liability can hinge on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents

University or Governing Board:

• The school or regents may be sued under certain negligence or civil-rights theories
• Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference

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; not every party is liable in every situation. Our investigation determines who bears responsibility.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Families Can Learn

The national landscape of hazing litigation shows clear patterns that inform Texas cases. These anchor stories demonstrate what happens when hazing goes unchecked.

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 against fraternity members; civil litigation; new Pennsylvania anti-hazing law named after him. Takeaway: Extreme intoxication, delay in calling 911, and a culture of silence can be legally devastating.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017):
Big/little event; pledge given a handle of liquor; drank to dangerous levels; died. Criminal hazing charges against members; FSU temporarily suspended Greek life and overhauled policies. Takeaway: Formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):
“Bible study” drinking game; forced to drink when answering questions incorrectly. Death led to felony hazing law in Louisiana (Max Gruver Act). Takeaway: Legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021):
Pledge night; forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey; died from alcohol poisoning. Multiple criminal convictions; BGSU agreed to nearly $3 million settlement with the family; other settlements with fraternity/individuals. Takeaway: Universities can face significant financial and reputational consequences along with fraternities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013):
Pledge at a fraternity retreat subjected to a violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual. Suffered fatal head injuries; help was delayed. Multiple members convicted; fraternity banned from Pennsylvania. Takeaway: Off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or worse than parties, and national orgs can face serious sanctions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University football (2023–2025):
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the football program. Multiple lawsuits against the university, staff; head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired and later settled a wrongful-termination suit confidentially. Takeaway: Hazing is not limited to Greek life; big-money athletic programs can harbor systemic abuse.

What These Cases Mean for Pecos Families

Common threads: forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed or denied medical care, cover-ups. Reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements often follow only after tragedy and litigation. Pecos families facing hazing at Texas universities are not alone and are operating in a landscape shaped by these national lessons.

Texas Focus: Where Pecos Students Attend College

Pecos families send their children to universities across Texas. Understanding the specific environments and histories at these schools is crucial. While Pecos is in West Texas, many students attend schools hours away, making parental awareness even more critical.

University of Houston (UH)

For Pecos Families: UH is approximately 550 miles from Pecos, but many West Texas students attend due to strong programs in business, engineering, and hospitality. The urban campus environment presents unique Greek life dynamics.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Large urban campus with commuter and residential mix
• Active Greek life with multiple fraternities and sororities
• Range of student organizations including cultural groups and sports clubs

Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• UH prohibits hazing on and off campus
• Prohibits forced consumption of alcohol/food/drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and mental distress as initiation
• Reporting channels through Dean of Students, conduct offices, and campus police

Recent Serious Incident – Leonel Bermudez Case (2025):
Our firm currently represents Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against UH and Pi Kappa Phi. Allegations include:

• “Pledge fanny pack” rule with degrading contents (condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices)
• Forced dress codes, hours-long “study/work” blocks, overnight driving duties
• Extreme physical hazing: sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, cold-weather exposure
• Being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting
• Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion
• Medical outcome: rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization

Chapter Response: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspended the Beta Nu chapter on Nov 6, 2025; members voted to surrender their charter on Nov 14, 2025. UH called conduct “deeply disturbing.”

How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed:

• Involves UHPD and/or Houston Police Department
• Civil suits filed in Harris County courts
• Potential defendants: individual students, chapter, national fraternity, UH, property owners

What UH Students & Pecos Parents Should Do:

• Report to Dean of Students Office (713-743-5470)
• Document prior complaints and past incidents
• Contact Attorney911 for Houston-based hazing expertise

Texas A&M University

For Pecos Families: Texas A&M is approximately 450 miles from Pecos, a common destination for West Texas students seeking traditional college experience. The Corps of Cadets adds another layer of potential hazing risk.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Traditional campus with strong Greek life and Corps of Cadets
• Culture emphasizes tradition and loyalty
• Active fraternity/sorority system with multiple councils

Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• Strict prohibitions against hazing in Student Rules
• Separate Corps of Cadets regulations
• Reporting through Student Conduct Office and Corps leadership

Documented Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

• Two pledges alleged forced strenuous activity
• Substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, spit poured on them
• Severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
• Pledges sued fraternity for $1 million
• Fraternity suspended for two years by university

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 a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed:

• Involves University Police and/or Bryan-College Station PD
• Civil suits in Brazos County courts
• Unique considerations for Corps cases (military-style hierarchy)

What Texas A&M Students & Pecos Parents Should Do:

• Report to Student Conduct Office (979-847-7272)
• For Corps issues, report to Commandant’s Office
• Document everything – traditions are often defended as “character building”

University of Texas at Austin (UT)

For Pecos Families: UT Austin is approximately 350 miles from Pecos, the closest major university. Many Pecos students attend UT for its academic reputation and Austin location.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Large Greek system with historical traditions
• Active spirit groups and organizations
• Public hazing violation reporting (unusual transparency)

Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• UT posts public Hazing Violations page listing organizations, dates, conduct, sanctions
• Strict prohibitions with detailed reporting
• Multiple reporting channels including anonymous options

Documented Violations from UT Public Log:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023):

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

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024):

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

Multiple Spirit Groups:

• Texas Wranglers, Texas Spirits, and other groups sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, or punishment-based practices

How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed:

• Involves UTPD and/or Austin PD
• Civil suits in Travis County courts
• Public violation log provides powerful evidence of patterns

What UT Students & Pecos Parents Should Do:

• Check UT’s public hazing violation page: hazing.utexas.edu
• Report to Dean of Students (512-471-2841)
• Use public records to show prior violations and patterns

Southern Methodist University (SMU)

For Pecos Families: SMU is approximately 350 miles from Pecos, attracting students seeking private university experience in Dallas metro.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Private, affluent campus with strong Greek presence
• Smaller Greek system but active
• Historical issues with hazing incidents

Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• SMU hazing prevention efforts including reporting forms
• Anonymous systems (Real Response)
• Private university status affects transparency

Documented Incident:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017):

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

How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed:

• Involves SMU PD and/or Dallas PD
• Civil suits in Dallas County courts
• Private university may resist disclosure of internal records

What SMU Students & Pecos Parents Should Do:

• Report to Student Conduct & Community Standards (214-768-4563)
• Understand private universities may handle things internally
• Consider off-campus reporting options if university response inadequate

Baylor University

For Pecos Families: Baylor is approximately 300 miles from Pecos, offering private Christian education with active Greek life.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Religious identity with history of scrutiny over football and Title IX issues
• Active Greek life within Christian context
• Athletic program hazing history

Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• Baylor’s policies, religious branding, and prior scandals interact with hazing claims
• “Zero tolerance” statements vs recurring misconduct

Documented Incident:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020):

• 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
• Suspensions staggered over early season
• Details not fully publicized

How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed:

• Involves Baylor PD and/or Waco PD
• Civil suits in McLennan County courts
• Religious branding may affect public relations approach

What Baylor Students & Pecos Parents Should Do:

• Report to Student Conduct Administration (254-710-1715)
• Be aware of religious context in institutional response
• Consider both on-campus and off-campus reporting

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories Matter for Texas Cases

The national organizations behind campus chapters have extensive hazing histories that create patterns of foreseeable risk. For Pecos families, understanding these patterns is crucial to building strong cases.

Why National Histories Matter

Many fraternities/sororities on Texas campuses (Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi, Kappa Alpha Order, etc.) are part of national organizations with:

• Thick anti-hazing manuals and risk policies because they’ve seen deaths and catastrophic injuries
• Knowledge of patterns: forced drinking nights, paddling traditions, humiliating rituals
• Prior incidents across the country that create foreseeability

When a Texas chapter repeats the same script that got another chapter shut down in another state, that shows foreseeability and supports negligence or punitive arguments against national entities.

Organization Patterns (Partial List)

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (2021): Forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol; died; $10M settlement ($7M national + $3M university)
• David Bogenberger – Northern Illinois University (2012): Alcohol poisoning death; $14M settlement
• Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing events repeatedly cause deaths

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

• Multiple fatalities nationwide leading to 2014 elimination of traditional pledge process
• University of Alabama (2023): Pledge suffered traumatic brain injury; lawsuit filed
• Texas A&M (2021): Chemical burns case with skin grafts; $1M lawsuit
• UT Austin (2024): Exchange student assault with multiple fractures; $1M+ lawsuit
• Pattern: Physical violence and dangerous initiations despite national policy changes

Phi Delta Theta:

• Max Gruver – LSU (2017): “Bible study” drinking game; death; Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act
• Pattern: Drinking games disguised as “education” or “tradition”

Pi Kappa Phi:

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State (2017): Big Brother Night alcohol poisoning death
• Leonel Bermudez – University of Houston (2025): Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure case we’re litigating
• Pattern: Physical endurance combined with alcohol consumption

Kappa Alpha Order:

• SMU chapter (2017): Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation; suspension
• Pattern: Traditional physical hazing methods

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

Patterns across states and campuses show that certain organizations had repeated warnings. Courts consider whether national orgs:

• Meaningfully enforced anti-hazing policies
• Responded to prior incidents aggressively enough
• Implemented effective prevention measures

This affects:

• Settlement leverage
• Insurance coverage disputes
• Potential for punitive damages

Our investigation tracks these national patterns to build stronger cases for Texas families.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Successful hazing litigation requires thorough investigation, strategic evidence collection, and understanding of damages. For Pecos families, knowing what matters can make the difference between accountability and cover-up.

Evidence That Wins Cases

Digital Communications (Most Critical):

• GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, fraternity apps
• Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments
• Both live and recovered/deleted messages
• Pecos Parent Action: Help your child screenshot EVERYTHING immediately

Photos & Videos:

• Content filmed by members during events
• Footage shared in group chats or posted on social media
• Security camera or doorbell footage at houses and venues
• Injury documentation with date/time stamps

Internal Organization Documents:

• Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, ritual “traditions” lists
• Emails/texts from officers about “what we’ll do to pledges”
• National policies and training materials

University Records:

• Prior conduct files, probation/suspensions, warning letters
• Incident reports to campus police or student conduct offices
• Clery reports and similar disclosures
• Texas Advantage: UT’s public hazing log provides powerful pattern evidence

Medical and Psychological Records:

• Emergency room and hospitalization records
• Surgery and rehab notes
• Toxicology reports (blood alcohol levels, drug screens)
• Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidality)

Witness Testimony:

• Other pledges, members, roommates, RAs, bystanders
• Former members who quit or were expelled
• Coaches, trainers, advisors who witnessed changes

Damages in Hazing Cases

Medical Bills & Future Care:

• Immediate care (ER, ICU, hospitalization)
• Surgeries, ongoing treatment, physical therapy, medications
• Long-term care for brain injuries or organ damage
• Example: Danny Santulli (Phi Gamma Delta, University of Missouri) needs 24/7 care for life after alcohol hazing caused permanent brain damage

Lost Earnings / Educational Impact:

• Missed semesters or withdrawal from school
• Lost scholarships (academic, athletic, Greek-based)
• Setbacks in entering the workforce
• Reduced earning capacity if injuries are permanent

Non-Economic Damages:

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

Wrongful Death Damages (for families):

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of companionship and support
• Emotional harm to parents and siblings
• Example: Stone Foltz family received approximately $10M total settlement

Punitive Damages (when available):

• Punish defendants for especially reckless, willful, or malicious conduct
• Deter future hazing
• Available when defendants had prior warnings and ignored them

Role of Insurance Coverage

National fraternities and universities often have insurance policies that may cover hazing claims. However, insurers frequently argue:

• Hazing or intentional acts are excluded
• The policy doesn’t cover certain defendants
• There’s no coverage for “criminal acts”

Experienced hazing lawyers:

• Identify all potential coverage sources (national policies, chapter policies, university policies, individual homeowner policies)
• Navigate disputes about exclusions and intentional conduct
• Pursue “bad faith” claims if insurers wrongfully deny coverage

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine

Our firm maintains a comprehensive database of Texas Greek organizations that strengthens our investigations. This includes:

IRS B83 Backbone – 125 Texas-Registered Greek Organizations:

• Every tax-exempt organization the IRS classifies as B83 with Texas mailing address
• Includes house corporations, alumni chapters, honor societies
• Provides EINs, legal names, mailing addresses for service of process

Texas Universities – 96 Campuses:

• Complete reference of Texas campuses with city/county locations
• Helps identify all potential university defendants

Cause IQ Metro Organizations – 1,423 Organizations Across 25 Metros:

• 188 Greek-related organizations in Houston metro
• 510 in Dallas-Fort Worth metro
• 154 in Austin metro
• Helps trace organizational networks and insurance coverage

Example Organizations from Our Database:

Delta Tau Delta – Gamma Iota Chapter
House corporation serving UT Austin chapter
Listed in IRS B83 filings and Cause IQ Austin metro data

Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc
EIN: 741380362 | Fort Worth, TX 76147
Fraternity foundation serving multiple chapters

Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation
EIN: 371768785 | Missouri City, TX 77459
Housing corporation for alumni chapter

This data means we don’t start from scratch. We already know how to find the organizations behind the letters.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Pecos Families

For Parents: Warning Signs & Action Steps

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
• Extreme fatigue, exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Weight loss or gain (from food/water restriction or stress)
• Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, calls at 3 AM)
• Sudden secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
• Withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-Greek activities
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability, anger
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
• Financial requests for unexplained expenses

How to Talk to Your Child:

1. Ask open questions: “How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
2. Express concern without judgment: “I’ve noticed you seem exhausted lately. Is everything okay?”
3. Emphasize safety: “Nothing is more important than your health and safety.”
4. Offer unconditional support: “You can always come home. No organization is worth your wellbeing.”

If Your Child Is Hurt:

1. Get medical attention immediately (even if they resist)
2. Document everything (photos of injuries, screenshots of texts, written timeline)
3. Save physical evidence (clothing, objects used in hazing)
4. Write down names, dates, locations, witnesses
5. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before taking other action

Dealing with the University:

• Document every communication with administrators
• Ask specifically about prior incidents involving the same organization
• Request copies of all policies and procedures
• Don’t sign anything without legal review
• Remember: university interests may not align with your family’s interests

For Students: Safety & Reporting

Is This Hazing or Just Tradition?
Ask yourself:

• Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
• Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
• Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Would my parents or the university approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
• Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this?

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, friend)
• Send written resignation to chapter president/new member educator
• Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where they might pressure or retaliate
• If you fear retaliation, report that fear to Dean of Students and campus police

Evidence Collection (Do This NOW):

1. Screenshot group chats with timestamps and participant names
2. Take photos of injuries from multiple angles (with date/time)
3. Save all digital communications (don’t delete anything)
4. Write down everything you remember (who, what, when, where)
5. Get medical documentation if injured

Reporting Channels:

• Campus: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, campus police
• Local: City police if crimes occurred
• Anonymous: National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE
• Legal: Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (confidential consultation)

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

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, prepare defenses
• What to do instead: Document everything, then call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms

• What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements
• Why it’s wrong: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are often far below case value
• What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing it first

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; can waive privilege
• 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 statements that hurt the case
• What to do instead: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication goes 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 of limitations runs, university controls narrative
• What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately; university process ≠ real accountability

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 and say, “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions

“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 Attorney911 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, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“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. The Leonel Bermudez UH case is public because media reported it before the lawsuit was filed, but many cases resolve without public disclosure.

“How much does it cost to hire a hazing lawyer?”
We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. Our fee comes from the recovery. This makes justice accessible to families who couldn’t otherwise afford to take on wealthy fraternities and universities.

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 powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. From our Texas offices, we serve families throughout the state, including Pecos and all of West Texas.

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 insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello):

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

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience:

• Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases with economist collaboration
• Experience valuing lifetime care needs (brain injury, permanent disability cases)
• “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise:

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

Investigative Depth:

• Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
• Experience obtaining hidden evidence (group chats, chapter records, university files)
• Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine with data on 1,423 Greek organizations across Texas
• “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Active Hazing Litigation Right Now:

• Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston & Pi Kappa Phi: $10M lawsuit for rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure from hazing
• We’re in the courtroom right now fighting for hazing victims
• This isn’t theoretical—we’re actively taking on universities and national fraternities

We Understand Texas Universities and Greek Life

We know how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments actually work behind closed doors. We understand:

• The psychology of coercion and group dynamics in hazing
• How organizations hide evidence and coach witnesses
• The difference between “paper policies” and actual enforcement
• How to trace liability from individual members to national headquarters

Empathy and Victim Advocacy

“We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. This isn’t about bravado or quick settlements—it’s about thorough investigation and real accountability.”

Call to Action for Pecos Families

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Pecos, Reeves County, and throughout West Texas have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation

We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

• We’ll listen to your story without judgment
• Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
• Explain your legal options: criminal report, 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 on the spot – take time to decide
• 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

Spanish-Language Services:
Hablamos Español – Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish
Servicios legales en español disponibles

Clarification of Expectations

Reading this article does not create an attorney–client relationship. Every hazing case is unique, and we cannot guarantee specific outcomes. An experienced attorney can review your specific facts, explain your rights under Texas law, and help you understand your options.

Whether you’re in Pecos or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions responsible for your child’s safety need to be held accountable. Call us today.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

Click2Houston (KPRC 2) – “‘Urine was brown’: Pledge sues over severe hazing at University of Houston’s shut down Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”
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 Eyewitness News (KTRK) – “Waterboarding, forced eating, physical punishment: Lawsuit alleges abuse faced by injured pledge at UH’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”
https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/

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

“📱 Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case? | Attorney911 Explains”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

“Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case? | Attorney911 with Injury Lawyer Ralph Manginello”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

“Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case | Attorney911 with Ralph Manginello”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

“📢 How Do Contingency Fees Work? Injury Lawyer Explains!”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website & Practice Areas:

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

Wrongful Death Practice:
https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/

Criminal Defense Practice:
https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/

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

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

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