The Complete Guide to Hazing Lawsuits for Cedar Park Families: Holding Texas Universities & Fraternities Accountable

If Your Child Was Hzed at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor—Here’s What You Need to Know

A Parent’s Worst Nightmare: When “Tradition” Becomes Trauma

Imagine this scenario, familiar to many Cedar Park families: Your child, bright-eyed and eager to find community at their new Texas university, accepts a bid to join a fraternity, sorority, or campus organization. What begins as exciting “bonding” quickly turns darker—late-night text demands, mandatory “workouts” that leave them bruised and exhausted, group chat humiliation, and the creeping understanding that saying “no” means social exile and failure. Then comes the call or text every parent dreads: your child is in the ER, hospitalized with rhabdomyolysis from forced exercise, or worse, unconscious from alcohol poisoning during a “Big/Little” night. You rush to the hospital, facing not just medical bills but the terrifying realization that the institution you trusted failed to protect your child.

This isn’t hypothetical. Right now, we’re fighting one of Texas’s most serious hazing cases: representing Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders. As detailed in the Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case and ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit, Bermudez endured the “pledge fanny pack” humiliation, forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting, being sprayed with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and extreme workouts that caused rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure—he passed brown urine and was hospitalized for four days. This case is happening now in Texas, and it shows exactly what Cedar Park families are up against when hazing turns catastrophic.

This guide exists for you—parents in Cedar Park, Round Rock, Leander, and across Williamson County who may have children at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any Texas campus. We’ll explain what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law applies, what national cases tell us about patterns, and what legal options exist when institutions fail. We serve families throughout Texas from our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices, bringing our deep Texas roots and proven institutional litigation experience to hold organizations 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:

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 (Beyond the Stereotypes)

Modern Hazing: Digital, Psychological, and Disguised

For Cedar Park families who may not have experienced Greek life themselves, today’s hazing bears little resemblance to movie stereotypes. It’s less about paddling in basements (though that still happens) and more about 24/7 digital control, psychological manipulation, and activities disguised as “team building.” The power imbalance remains the same: new members seeking acceptance face older members wielding social power, with “tradition” used to justify abuse.

Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Based on national research and our case experience, hazing escalates through three distinct tiers:

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

Digital surveillance: Pledges required to share live locations via Find My Friends, respond instantly to group chats at all hours
Servitude: Acting as 24/7 designated drivers, cleaning older members’ apartments, running personal errands
Social control: Permission required for social plans, isolation from non-member friends, answering to derogatory nicknames
Deception training: Being told to lie to parents, RAs, or university officials about activities
“Optional” mandates: Events framed as voluntary but with clear social consequences for non-attendance

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Creating Hostile Environments)

Sleep deprivation: 3 AM wake-up calls for “mandatory” activities, multi-day events with minimal rest
Food/water manipulation: Forced consumption of disgusting mixtures (hot sauce, spoiled food, excessive bland foods)
Psychological abuse: Public “roasts,” forced confessions, verbal degradation sessions
Humiliating performances: Forced singing/dancing in public, wearing embarrassing costumes on campus
“Wellness” disguises: Extreme workouts framed as “fitness challenges” but actually punitive and dangerous

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

Forced alcohol consumption: “Big/Little” nights with handles of liquor, drinking games where wrong answers mean more drinks, lineups and chugging challenges
Physical beatings: Paddling (especially in NPHC traditions, though officially prohibited), punches, kicks, “branding” with burns
Dangerous physical tests: “Glass ceiling” blindfolded tackles, forced fights (“gladiator matches”), extreme exposure to elements
Sexualized hazing: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts (“elephant walk,” “roasted pig” positions), sexual assault
Chemical hazing: Industrial cleaners poured on skin (as in Texas A&M SAE case causing chemical burns), forced ingestion of unknown substances

Where Hazing Happens: It’s Not Just Greek Life

While fraternities and sororities dominate headlines, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

Corps of Cadets / ROTC (military-style traditions and “discipline”)
Athletic teams (from football to cheerleading)
Spirit organizations (Texas Cowboys, Silver Spurs, and similar groups)
Marching bands and performance groups
Service organizations and academic clubs
Cultural and identity-based organizations

The common thread: any group with initiation rituals, power hierarchies, and secrecy can become a hazing environment. For Cedar Park families with children in any organization, understanding these patterns is crucial.

Texas Hazing Law: What Cedar Park Families Need to Know

The Legal Framework Protecting Texas Students

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws in the Education Code (Chapter 37, Subchapter F), which apply whether hazing occurs on-campus or off-campus. Understanding these laws helps Cedar Park families recognize their rights and the seriousness with which Texas treats these offenses.

Texas Education Code § 37.151: Hazing Definition
Texas law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in an organization that:

Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of the student, OR
Involves physical brutality (beating, whipping, branding), OR
Involves sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, confinement, calisthenics, OR
Involves forced consumption of food, liquor, drugs, OR
Any activity that induces, causes, or requires the student to perform a duty or task that subjects the student to extreme mental stress

Critical for Cedar Park families to understand: Location doesn’t matter (off-campus houses, Airbnbs, retreats all count). “Consent” is not a defense under Texas law (§ 37.155). The “reckless” standard means even if no one intended harm, if they should have known the risk, it’s still hazing.

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law (§ 37.152)

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause bodily injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing that causes bodily injury (up to 1 year jail, $4,000 fine)
State Jail Felony: Hazing that causes serious bodily injury or death (180 days to 2 years state jail, up to $10,000 fine)

Additional offenses:

Failure to report: Members/officers who knowingly fail to report hazing face misdemeanor charges
Retaliation against reporters: Criminal penalties for threatening or harming those who report

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153)

This is crucial for Cedar Park families considering legal action: the organization itself can be prosecuted if it authorized or encouraged hazing, or if officers failed to report known hazing. Organizations face:

Fines up to $10,000 per violation
Loss of university recognition and campus privileges

Protections for Good-Faith Reporting (§ 37.154)

Texas provides immunity from civil or criminal liability for those who in good faith report hazing to university officials or law enforcement. This applies even if the reporter participated in the hazing—the law wants to encourage calling for help without fear of prosecution.

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections

Title IX: When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX requires universities to investigate and take appropriate action. This applies to all schools receiving federal funding (virtually all Texas universities).

Clery Act: Requires universities to report certain crimes and maintain safety statistics; hazing incidents often overlap with reportable offenses like assault, alcohol violations, or sexual offenses.

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): New federal legislation requiring greater transparency in hazing reporting and prevention programs by 2026. This means more public data about which organizations have violations—valuable information for Cedar Park families.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding Both Paths

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (prosecutor)
Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Common charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases
Burden of proof: “Beyond a reasonable doubt”

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims/families
Goal: Compensation and accountability
Common claims: negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, emotional distress, negligent supervision
Burden of proof: “Preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not)

Critical distinction: These can proceed simultaneously. A criminal acquittal doesn’t prevent a civil case, and vice versa. Most Cedar Park families pursuing accountability will focus on civil litigation for compensation, though criminal charges often support civil claims.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students: Those who planned, carried out, or helped cover up hazing
Chapter/Local Organization: The fraternity/sorority chapter as an entity
National Headquarters: For failure to supervise, enforce policies, or respond to prior incidents
Universities: For negligent supervision, deliberate indifference, or failure to enforce policies
Property Owners: Landlords of off-campus houses, Airbnb hosts, retreat venue owners
Alcohol Providers: Under Texas dram shop laws if they overserved minors
Advisors & Alumni: Those who knew or should have known about hazing

For Cedar Park families, identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial—each represents a potential source of compensation and a lever for accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Cases Tell Us

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Common Fatal Pattern

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

Incident: 20-year-old pledge forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Outcome: $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
For Cedar Park families: This exact “Big/Little” script plays out at Texas campuses annually

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Incident: “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking; died with 0.495% BAC
Outcome: $6.1 million verdict for family; Louisiana passed Max Gruver Act (felony hazing)
For Cedar Park families: Drinking games are predictable, preventable, and routinely lethal

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

Incident: Pledge given handle of liquor during “Big Brother Night”; died from alcohol poisoning
Outcome: Pi Kappa Phi chapter closed; FSU suspended all Greek life temporarily
For Cedar Park families: The same Pi Kappa Phi national now faces our UH lawsuit

Physical Hazing with Fatal Consequences

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

Incident: Pledge blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual at retreat
Outcome: National fraternity criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
For Cedar Park families: Off-campus retreats are often where the worst hazing occurs, thinking they’re beyond university oversight

Severe Non-Fatal Injuries That Change Lives Forever

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

Incident: 18-year-old pledge forced to drink excessive alcohol; suffered permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
Outcome: Settlements with 22 defendants; chapter closed
For Cedar Park families: Hazing doesn’t have to be fatal to destroy a life and family

Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas A&M University (2021)

Incident: Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
Outcome: Pledges sued for $1 million; chapter suspended
For Cedar Park families: SAE operates at UH, Texas A&M, UT—same national, same patterns

Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

Incident: Former players alleged sexualized and racist hazing within football program over years
Outcome: Head coach fired; university settled wrongful-termination suit; multiple player lawsuits ongoing
For Cedar Park families: Big-money athletic programs have their own hazing cultures with institutional protection

What These National Cases Mean for Cedar Park Families

Patterns repeat: The same scripts (Big/Little nights, drinking games, physical “tests”) recur across campuses and years
Nationals know the risks: These organizations have extensive anti-hazing policies because they’ve faced deaths before
Cover-ups are predictable: Delayed medical care, deleted evidence, coached witnesses happen routinely
Settlements are substantial: $1M–$14M ranges show juries take hazing seriously
Individual accountability matters: Chapter presidents have been ordered to pay $6.5 million personally (Pi Kappa Alpha president in Foltz case)

For Cedar Park families dealing with hazing at Texas schools, these national precedents provide both warning and roadmap: the patterns are known, the defendants use similar defenses, and experienced hazing attorneys know how to overcome them.

Texas University Deep Dive: Where Cedar Park Families Send Their Children

Cedar Park families have deep connections to Texas higher education. Whether your child attends school locally or hours away, understanding each campus’s specific hazing landscape is crucial. Based in Texas with offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’ve handled cases across these systems and understand their distinct cultures and challenges.

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency with Persistent Problems

For Cedar Park families: UT Austin is essentially in our backyard—just 20 miles south of Cedar Park. Many Williamson County students attend UT, and its hazing violations directly affect our community.

Campus Culture & Greek Life:
UT hosts approximately 60 fraternity and sorority chapters with strong traditional Greek presence. The university maintains one of Texas’s most transparent hazing reporting systems at hazing.utexas.edu, publicly listing violations—a resource Cedar Park parents should check regularly.

UT Hazing Violations Examples (from public reports):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter probation with required hazing prevention education
Texas Wranglers (spirit organization): Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing
Sigma Alpha Epsilon: Ongoing issues including assault allegations (2024 case where Australian exchange student suffered dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia)

How UT Cases Proceed:

Jurisdiction: Travis County courts (where our Austin office is located)
Police: UTPD for on-campus; Austin PD for off-campus
Key evidence: UT’s own public violation database provides pattern evidence
Strategic consideration: UT’s transparency can help prove prior knowledge in negligence claims

What UT Students & Cedar Park Parents Should Do:

Check hazing.utexas.edu before your child joins any organization
Report to Dean of Students Office (512-471-2841) AND UTPD (512-471-4441) for crimes
Document everything—UT’s size means cases get lost without thorough evidence
Contact an Austin-based hazing attorney who knows UT’s systems and Travis County courts

UT-Specific Resource: The UT Center for Students in Recovery offers support for students dealing with substance-related hazing consequences.

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life Intersections

For Cedar Park families: Many Aggie families in Cedar Park and Williamson County have deep multigenerational ties to A&M. The university’s unique Corps of Cadets culture creates distinct hazing risks beyond Greek life.

Campus Culture & Hazing Risks:
A&M’s Corps of Cadets operates with military-style discipline that sometimes crosses into hazing under the guise of “tradition.” Simultaneously, College Station’s Greek life is among Texas’s most active, with historic houses and strong alumni networks.

Documented A&M Hazing Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021)

Allegations: Pledges covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
Outcome: Pledges sued for $1 million; chapter suspended for two years
For Cedar Park families: This happened at our state’s flagship university—no campus is immune

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023)

Allegations: Cadet alleged being bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth, plus other degrading hazing
Outcome: $1 million+ lawsuit against A&M; university stated it handled matter under its rules
For Cedar Park families: The Corps’s “tradition” defense doesn’t eliminate liability

Kappa Sigma Rhabdomyolysis Case (2023, ongoing)

Allegations: Extreme physical hazing causing rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown)
Status: Ongoing litigation
For Cedar Park families: Rhabdomyolysis is the same injury in our UH Pi Kappa Phi case—a known, preventable danger

How A&M Cases Proceed:

Jurisdiction: Brazos County courts
Police: A&M PD for on-campus; College Station PD for off-campus
Strategic considerations: A&M’s strong institutional pride affects witness cooperation; Corps cases involve unique military-style chain of command issues

What A&M Students & Cedar Park Parents Should Do:

Understand both Greek AND Corps reporting channels
Corps-specific: Report to Commandant’s Office AND Office of Student Conduct
Document injuries immediately—Corps “toughening” culture may discourage medical care
Consider geographic logistics: College Station is 100+ miles from Cedar Park; having Texas-based counsel with statewide reach matters

A&M-Specific Resource: The A&M Student Assistance Services (SAS) provides confidential support for hazing victims navigating university systems.

University of Houston: Urban Campus with Current High-Profile Litigation

For Cedar Park families: UH draws students from across Texas, including Williamson County. Our ongoing Pi Kappa Phi case shows the severe risks present on this campus.

Campus Culture & Current Climate:
UH’s urban commuter-campus dynamic creates different social pressures than residential colleges. The university has faced multiple hazing incidents and recently overhauled Greek life policies after our Pi Kappa Phi litigation revealed systemic issues.

The Leonel Bermudez / Pi Kappa Phi Case (Our Current Litigation):
This isn’t historical—it’s active, serious litigation we’re handling right now. The details matter for every Cedar Park family:

What Happened (November 2025):

Victim: Leonel Bermudez, UH transfer student and Pi Kappa Phi pledge
Hazing Methods: “Pledge fanny pack” with condoms/sex toys, forced consumption of milk/hot dogs/peppercorns until vomiting, hose spraying “similar to waterboarding,” 100+ push-ups/500 squats under expulsion threats
Medical Catastrophe: Developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, passed brown urine, hospitalized four days
Institutional Response: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspended chapter Nov 6; members voted to surrender charter Nov 14; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”
Our Lawsuit: $10 million damages against UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, housing corporation, and 13 individual members
Media Coverage: Click2Houston, ABC13, Hoodline

Previous UH Hazing Incidents:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2016): Pledge suffered lacerated spleen during hazing; chapter faced misdemeanor charges and suspension
Multiple other fraternities disciplined for “conduct likely to produce mental or physical discomfort”

How UH Cases Proceed:

Jurisdiction: Harris County courts (where our Houston headquarters is located)
Police: UHPD for on-campus; Houston PD for off-campus
Strategic advantage: Our active UH litigation means we know current administrators, policies, and defense strategies
Geographic consideration: Houston is 160+ miles from Cedar Park; having counsel already based in Houston with UH experience is critical

What UH Students & Cedar Park Parents Should Do:

Report to Dean of Students AND UHPD—UH has improved response protocols after recent cases
Document digital evidence thoroughly—urban campuses mean witnesses scatter quickly
Seek medical care at Hermann Memorial or other major Houston hospitals familiar with hazing injuries
Contact counsel experienced with UH’s specific systems and Harris County courts

UH-Specific Resource: UH’s Center for Student Advocacy and Community provides support for hazing victims navigating reporting and recovery.

Southern Methodist University: Private Campus with Affluent Greek Culture

For Cedar Park families: SMU draws students from affluent Texas families, including many from Williamson County. Its private university status creates different legal considerations than public institutions.

Campus Culture & Greek Dominance:
SMU’s Greek life participation is among Texas’s highest percentages. The university’s “Dallas Bubble” reputation and affluent student body create unique social dynamics where organizational membership carries significant status pressure.

Documented SMU Hazing Incidents:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017)

Allegations: New members paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep
Outcome: Chapter suspended until 2021; restrictions on recruiting
For Cedar Park families: Paddling persists despite national prohibitions

Multiple Anonymous Reports (2023-2024)

SMU’s anonymous reporting system (Real Response) receives regular hazing complaints
Pattern: Off-campus house parties with forced drinking, sleep deprivation, humiliation rituals
University response: Varies by chapter influence and alumni pressure

How SMU Cases Proceed:

Jurisdiction: Dallas County courts
Police: SMU PD (private police force with full jurisdiction)
Strategic considerations: Private university means different sovereign immunity issues; affluent families may face different social pressures against litigation
Evidence challenges: SMU’s smaller, close-knit community can create witness intimidation issues

What SMU Students & Cedar Park Parents Should Do:

Use SMU’s Real Response anonymous system for initial reporting (but follow up formally)
Document financial aspects—SMU hazing often involves expensive “required” purchases
Consider social implications carefully—SMU’s small community affects anonymity
Contact counsel experienced with private university litigation and Dallas County courts

SMU-Specific Resource: SMU’s Hegi Family Career Center can assist students whose academic/career trajectories are disrupted by hazing consequences.

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Athletic Culture

For Cedar Park families: Baylor’s religious affiliation and Waco location attract distinct student populations from Williamson County. Its history with institutional scandal affects current hazing responses.

Campus Culture & Recent History:
Baylor’s Baptist affiliation creates official policies at odds with some Greek traditions, but hazing persists. The university’s recent sexual assault scandal reshaped administrative responses to misconduct allegations.

Documented Baylor Hazing Incidents:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020)

Allegations: Team hazing rituals
Outcome: 14 players suspended; staggered suspensions during season
For Cedar Park families: Athletic hazing occurs even at religious institutions

Multiple Greek Life Incidents (2021-2023)

Pattern: Off-campus houses used for “traditional” initiations away from university oversight
University response: Varied by chapter influence
Current status: Baylor maintains “zero tolerance” public stance while handling incidents internally

How Baylor Cases Proceed:

Jurisdiction: McLennan County courts
Police: Baylor PD (private police with jurisdiction)
Strategic considerations: Religious affiliation affects jury pools; recent scandal history affects university’s defense strategies
Geographic consideration: Waco is 100+ miles from Cedar Park; local McLennan County counsel is advantageous

What Baylor Students & Cedar Park Parents Should Do:

Report through both Student Conduct AND Baylor PD—coordination between these offices has improved post-scandal
Document any religious aspects—using faith to justify or pressure participation in hazing
Consider Baylor’s specific honor code implications for reporting
Contact counsel familiar with Baylor’s administrative systems and McLennan County courts

Baylor-Specific Resource: Baylor’s Counseling Center provides support for students navigating the intersection of faith, trauma, and institutional reporting.

Other Texas Campuses Relevant to Cedar Park Families

Cedar Park students attend universities across Texas. Key campuses with documented hazing issues:

Texas State University (San Marcos)

30+ miles from Cedar Park
Recent incidents: Multiple Greek life sanctions for alcohol hazing, physical abuse
Consideration: Popular choice for Williamson County students; proximity to Cedar Park

Southwestern University (Georgetown)

In Williamson County, 10 miles from Cedar Park
Small liberal arts campus with Greek life
Consideration: Truly local for Cedar Park families; small campus dynamics affect reporting

University of North Texas (Denton)

70+ miles from Cedar Park
Large Greek system with historical hazing issues
Consideration: Popular for Cedar Park students seeking larger university experience

For Cedar Park families, the common thread across Texas campuses: hazing persists despite policies, and institutional responses vary widely based on publicity, alumni pressure, and legal exposure. Having Texas-based counsel who understands these variations is crucial.

Texas Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories Meet Local Chapters

Why National Histories Matter for Cedar Park Families

When your child is hazed at a Texas chapter, you’re not just dealing with local students—you’re facing a national organization with decades of documented hazing incidents, established defense strategies, and experienced insurance carriers. Understanding these national patterns is crucial for Cedar Park families seeking accountability.

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Our Data Advantage

Our firm maintains what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a comprehensive database of Texas Greek organizations built from public records:

IRS B83 Backbone: 125+ Texas-Registered Greek Organizations
These are the legal entities behind the letters. Examples from our database show the structure Cedar Park families are up against:

Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN 46-2267515) – Frisco, TX 75035
Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation (EIN 37-1768785) – Missouri City, TX 77459
Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter (EIN 74-6084905) – Houston, TX 77204
Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc (EIN 13-3048786) – College Station, TX 77845

Texas Universities: 96 Campuses with Greek Life
From our database, these include not just the big names but regional campuses Cedar Park students attend.

Cause IQ Metro Analysis: 1,423 Greek Organizations Across 25 Texas Metros

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land: 188 organizations
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington: 510 organizations
Austin-Round Rock: 154 organizations
San Antonio: 86 organizations
College Station-Bryan: 42 organizations

Why this matters for Cedar Park families: When we take a case, we already know the legal names, EINs, addresses, and organizational structures of the entities behind the hazing. We don’t start from zero—we start with intelligence.

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories at Texas Schools

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / “Pike”)

National history: Stone Foltz death ($10M settlement), David Bogenberger death ($14M settlement)
Texas presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor
Texas incidents: UH 2016 (lacerated spleen), UT 2023 (milk/calisthenics hazing)
Pattern: Big/Little alcohol nights, physical endurance tests

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / “SAE”)

National history: Multiple deaths nationwide; traumatic brain injury case at Alabama; eliminated pledging nationally in 2014
Texas presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU
Texas incidents: Texas A&M chemical burns ($1M lawsuit), UT assault case (2024)
Pattern: Physical violence, alcohol hazing, chemical abuse

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

National history: Andrew Coffey death at FSU
Texas presence: UH (our active case), Texas A&M
Texas incidents: UH 2025 (our Bermudez case: rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure)
Pattern: Forced consumption, extreme physical hazing

Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ)

National history: Chad Meredith drowning ($12.6M verdict)
Texas presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor
Texas incidents: Texas A&M rhabdomyolysis case (ongoing)
Pattern: Alcohol hazing, physical endurance

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

National history: Max Gruver death ($6.1M verdict)
Texas presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin
Pattern: Drinking games (“Bible study” model)

NPHC (Divine Nine) Organizations

Important for Cedar Park families to understand: National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations have distinct traditions and hazing patterns, often involving physical paddling despite national prohibitions. These organizations operate at all Texas universities with significant African American populations.

How National Histories Support Cedar Park Cases

Foreseeability: When a Texas chapter repeats hazing methods that caused deaths at other chapters, nationals can’t claim they “couldn’t have known” the risks.

Pattern Evidence: Multiple incidents across states show the organization has systemic issues, not just “rogue” chapters.

Punitive Damages: Knowledge of prior deaths/severe injuries then failure to effectively intervene can support punitive damage claims.

Insurance Coverage: National policies may provide coverage even if local chapter insurance denies claims.

For Cedar Park families, the message is clear: You’re not just dealing with college students—you’re facing national organizations with legal teams, insurance strategies, and decades of experience defending hazing cases. You need counsel who understands this landscape.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and What Cedar Park Families Can Expect

Evidence Collection: The Digital Crime Scene

Modern hazing leaves digital trails that are both evidence and vulnerability. Our approach mirrors our complex litigation experience from BP Texas City cases: thorough, expert-backed, and strategically timed.

Digital Evidence Priorities:

Group Messaging Preservation:
- GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage groups: Screenshot entire threads with timestamps visible
- Deleted message recovery: Digital forensics can often recover “deleted” messages
- Key evidence: Planning discussions, admissions, threats, celebratory messages after hazing
Social Media Evidence:
- Instagram/Snapchat stories: Hazing often documented then disappears in 24 hours
- TikTok/YouTube videos: “Funny” hazing videos become powerful evidence
- Facebook events: Party planning reveals organizational involvement
Location & Communications Data:
- Geo-tracking: Find My Friends demands, Snapchat location sharing
- Phone records: Call/text patterns around hazing events
- Email chains: Official chapter communications

Watch our video on using your phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

Physical Evidence Often Overlooked:

Venue documentation: Airbnb receipts, rental agreements, property owner information
Medical evidence: Not just records, but prescription bottles, medical devices, therapy notes
Financial records: Venmo/CashApp transactions for “fines,” alcohol purchases, mandatory dues

Medical Documentation: Proving the Harm

Immediate Steps for Cedar Park Families:

ER documentation: Tell medical providers exactly what happened—”forced to drink by fraternity,” “beaten during pledge event”
Specialist follow-up: Rhabdomyolysis needs nephrologist; brain injuries need neurologist; PTSD needs psychiatrist
Psychological evaluation: Even if physical injuries heal, trauma persists
Future care planning: Catastrophic injuries (like Danny Santulli’s) require life care plans costing millions

Common Hazing Injuries We See:

Rhabdomyolysis: Muscle breakdown causing kidney failure (our UH case)
Traumatic Brain Injuries: From falls during intoxication or physical violence
Chemical Burns: From cleaners or other substances poured on skin
Psychological Trauma: PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance dependency
Sexual Assault Injuries: Physical and psychological

Legal Strategy: Overcoming Institutional Defenses

Based on our experience against BP, national fraternities, and universities, we anticipate and counter these common defenses:

Defense 1: “The Pledge Consented”

Our response: Texas law § 37.155: “Consent is not a defense.” Coercion under power imbalance isn’t true consent.
Evidence: Group chat messages showing social pressure, threats of expulsion, power dynamics

Defense 2: “Rogue Chapter / National Didn’t Know”

Our response: Pattern evidence from other chapters shows foreseeability
Evidence: National’s own incident reports, prior suspensions, internal emails about “problem chapters”

Defense 3: “Off-Campus / Not Our Property”

Our response: Nationals collect dues, send advisors, exercise control regardless of location
Evidence: National-chapter communications, insurance coverage, advisor involvement

Defense 4: “We Have Anti-Hazing Policies”

Our response: Paper policies ≠ enforcement. Show prior incidents with minimal consequences.
Evidence: Prior violations that resulted only in “probation” or warnings

Defense 5: “University Sovereign Immunity” (Public Schools)

Our response: Exceptions for gross negligence, Title IX violations, individual employee liability
Strategy: Sue individuals in personal capacity, allege constitutional violations

Defense 6: “Insurance Doesn’t Cover Intentional Acts”

Our response: Negligent supervision claims may be covered even if hazing was intentional
Strategy: Multiple policy analysis, bad faith claims against insurers

Damages: What Cedar Park Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable):

Medical expenses: Past and future (lifetime care for catastrophic injuries)
Lost earnings: Current and future diminished earning capacity
Educational costs: Tuition for disrupted semesters, transfer expenses, lost scholarships

Non-Economic Damages:

Pain and suffering: Physical pain from injuries
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment: Can’t participate in college life, activities, relationships

Wrongful Death Damages (When Applicable):

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

Punitive Damages:

When defendants’ conduct is particularly reckless or malicious
Requires showing prior knowledge and indifference to risk

Settlement vs. Trial Considerations:
Most cases settle confidentially, but trial readiness is crucial for leverage. Settlement funds often establish foundations in victims’ names (like Aware Awake Alive from Carson Starkey case) or fund hazing prevention programs.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Cedar Park Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Hazed:

Physical Indicators:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts (especially patterned injuries like paddle marks)
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food manipulation
Sleep deprivation (constantly tired, sleeping at odd hours)
Injuries to specific body parts (hands from push-ups, back from paddling)

Behavioral Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and non-member friends
Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive when asked about the organization
Constant phone monitoring (afraid to miss group chat demands)

Academic Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or assignments for “mandatory” events
Falling asleep in class from exhaustion

Digital Behavior:

24/7 phone attachment for group chats
Anxiety when phone buzzes
Deleting messages or browser history obsessively
New location-sharing app installations

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontational):

“How are new members treated in your organization?”
“Are there activities that make you uncomfortable?”
“What happens if someone doesn’t participate in an event?”
“Do older members ever ask you to keep secrets from the university or parents?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt during activities?”

For Students: Self-Assessment and Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide:
If you answer YES to any, it’s likely hazing:

Am I being pressured to do something dangerous or degrading?
Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
Is this activity hidden from outsiders or administrators?
Are only new members required to do this?

How to Exit Safely:

Immediate danger: Call 911, get to safe location
Wanting to quit: Email/text chapter president: “I resign effective immediately”
Do NOT attend “one last meeting” where pressure/retaliation may occur
Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, trusted friend)

Evidence Collection for Students:

Screenshot everything: Group chats, DMs, event planning
- Include timestamps and participant names
- Capture before/after context
Record if safe: Texas is one-party consent for recordings
Photograph injuries: Multiple angles, include scale (coin/ruler)
Save physical evidence: Clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records

Who to Report To:

Campus: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, Title IX (if sexual), campus police
Criminal: Local police for assaults, alcohol crimes
Anonymous: National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE
Legal: Attorney911 for confidential consultation: 1-888-ATTY-911

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

Watch our video on client mistakes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

MISTAKE 1: Deleting Evidence

Why wrong: Looks like cover-up; obstruction of justice; destroys case
Instead: Preserve everything, even if embarrassing

MISTAKE 2: Confronting the Organization

Why wrong: Triggers evidence destruction, witness coaching, defense preparation
Instead: Document quietly, consult lawyer first

MISTAKE 3: Signing University Forms

Why wrong: May waive legal rights; settlements often inadequate
Instead: Have attorney review ALL documents before signing

MISTAKE 4: Social Media Posting

Why wrong: Defense screenshots everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Instead: Document privately; let lawyer control messaging

MISTAKE 5: “One Last Meeting”

Why wrong: Pressure, intimidation, extracting harmful statements
Instead: Once considering legal action, all communication through attorney

MISTAKE 6: Waiting for University Process

Why wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Instead: Preserve evidence NOW; university process ≠ real accountability

MISTAKE 7: Talking to Insurance Adjusters
6. Why wrong: Recorded statements used against you; lowball settlements

Instead: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Cedar Park Families

Q: Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?
A: Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity limitations, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing employees individually. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Each case requires specific analysis—call 1-888-ATTY-911 for case evaluation.

Q: Is hazing a felony in Texas?
A: It can be. Texas Education Code § 37.152 makes hazing a Class B misdemeanor normally, but a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

Q: What if my child “agreed” to the activities?
A: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states: “Consent is not a defense.” Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t voluntary. This is crucial for Cedar Park families to understand.

Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
A: Generally 2 years from injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist. The “discovery rule” may extend this if harm wasn’t immediately known. In cover-up cases, the statute may be tolled. Time is critical—call immediately.

Watch our statute of limitations video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

Q: What if hazing happened off-campus?
A: Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities/nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Many major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) were off-campus with multi-million-dollar judgments.

Q: Will this be confidential?
A: Most cases settle confidentially before trial. We can request sealed records and confidential settlements. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

Q: How much will this cost?
A: We work on contingency fee—no upfront costs, no fee unless we win. This makes justice accessible to all families regardless of means.

Watch our contingency fee explanation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Q: What if my child fears retaliation?
A: Texas law prohibits retaliation against reporters. We can seek protective orders, involve campus police, and document threats for additional claims. Your child’s safety is our first concern.

About The Manginello Law Firm: Why Texas Families Choose Us for Hazing Cases

Our Texas Roots and Institutional Experience

When your Cedar Park family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. From our Houston headquarters and Austin office, we serve families across Texas with deep understanding of our state’s unique legal and university landscapes.

Insurance Insider Advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña’s Defense Background
Mr. Peña (he/him) spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
Deploy independent medical exams (IMEs) to minimize injuries
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.” This insider knowledge is invaluable for Cedar Park families facing well-funded opposition.

Complex Institutional Litigation: Ralph Manginello’s BP Texas City Experience
Ralph Manginello was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation—taking on a billion-dollar corporation with unlimited legal resources. That same experience applies directly to hazing cases against:

National fraternities with decades of litigation experience
University systems with deep-pocketed insurers
Defense firms specializing in institutional protection

Proven Results in Catastrophic Cases

Multi-million dollar wrongful death settlements
Brain injury cases requiring lifetime care planning
Rhabdomyolysis litigation (our active UH case)
Chemical burn cases with permanent scarring

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability
With Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), we understand both sides of hazing cases. We can:

Advise on criminal exposure for witnesses/participants
Navigate parallel criminal and civil proceedings
Protect your child’s rights in both systems

Texas-Specific Geographic Mastery

Houston office: Harris County courts, UH cases, Southern District of Texas federal experience
Austin office: Travis County courts, UT cases, Central Texas reach
Beaumont office: Jefferson County courts, Lamar University cases
Statewide practice: We serve families across Texas, including Cedar Park and Williamson County

Spanish-Language Services
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish—critical for serving Texas’s Hispanic families affected by hazing.

Investigative Resources No Other Firm Matches

Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine:
Our proprietary database of 1,423 Texas Greek organizations means we don’t start investigations from scratch. We already know:

Legal entity names and EINs
Insurance carrier information
Organizational structures (housing corporations, alumni associations)
Prior incident patterns

Expert Network:

Medical experts: Rhabdomyolysis specialists, nephrologists, neurologists, psychiatrists
Digital forensics: Recovering deleted messages, social media evidence
Economists: Lifetime care costing, lost earning capacity calculations
Greek life experts: Understanding organizational dynamics and traditions
Safety experts: Standard of care for university supervision

Evidence Preservation Protocol:
We act within 24-48 hours to:

Send preservation letters to prevent evidence destruction
Initiate digital forensics before messages are permanently deleted
Document scenes before cleanup occurs
Identify and interview witnesses before they’re coached

Our Philosophy: Accountability and Prevention

We believe every hazing case is about three things:

Compensation for your family for medical costs, trauma, and loss
Accountability for organizations that prioritize tradition over safety
Prevention for future students so no other family suffers similarly

Many families use settlement funds to establish foundations or scholarships in their child’s name—turning tragedy into prevention for others.

Call to Action: Your Next Step as a Cedar Park Family

If Hazing Has Impacted Your Family

Whether you’re in Cedar Park proper, Round Rock, Leander, Georgetown, or anywhere in Williamson County, if hazing has touched your family at any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. The geographic distance from Cedar Park to Houston, College Station, Austin, or Waco doesn’t matter—we serve families throughout Texas and understand the unique challenges of each campus community.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911:

We listen without judgment: Your story matters, and we understand this is painful to discuss
Evidence review: We’ll look at any documentation you have (photos, texts, medical records)
Legal options explained: Criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither—we explain each path
Realistic assessment: We give honest evaluation of your case’s strengths and challenges
Cost discussion: Contingency fee means no upfront costs; we only get paid if we win
No pressure: Take time to decide what’s right for your family
Confidentiality: Everything you share is protected by attorney-client privilege

Contact Information

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Legal Emergency Lawyers™

Phone: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781 (for immediate emergencies)

Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello)
Email: lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña – Spanish services available)

Website: https://attorney911.com

Office Locations:

Houston: 24/7 availability for emergencies
Austin: Serving Travis County and Central Texas
Beaumont: Serving Southeast Texas

Hablamos Español: Full Spanish-language legal services available through Mr. Peña

Your Cedar Park Community Resource

As your neighbors in Texas, we understand the values that matter to Williamson County families: education, safety, accountability, and community. When those values are violated by hazing, we’re here to help restore justice and prevent future harm.

Final Thought for Cedar Park Families:
Hazing thrives in silence and secrecy. By stepping forward, you’re not just helping your own family—you’re protecting other Cedar Park students from suffering the same trauma. These cases have changed laws, closed dangerous chapters, and saved lives. Your courage matters.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Our UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

Educational Videos:

Evidence Documentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of Limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client Mistakes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Contingency Fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Firm Resources:

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