A Complete Guide to Hazing Laws & Liability for Edgewood, Texas Families: Holding Fraternities, Sororities & Universities Accountable

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

Imagine your son, a bright freshman from Van Zandt County, has just started at the University of Houston. He joined a fraternity hoping to find brotherhood and community. What begins as weekly meetings and study sessions gradually transforms into something darker—mandatory late-night driving duties, weekend-long “bonding” sessions where sleep is forbidden, and a “pledge fanny pack” he must carry at all times containing humiliating items. One November evening, after being forced through hundreds of push-ups and squats under threat of expulsion, he collapses. By the time he’s rushed to the emergency room, his urine is brown from muscle breakdown. He spends four days in the hospital fighting acute kidney failure, with doctors warning of potential permanent damage.

This isn’t a hypothetical scenario. This is exactly what happened to Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter in fall 2025—a case our firm, Attorney911, is actively litigating right now in a $10 million lawsuit against UH, Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders.

For families here in Edgewood and across Van Zandt County, this case hits close to home. Many of our students venture to major Texas universities—University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, SMU—seeking the full college experience. What you might not know is how deeply entrenched hazing culture remains at these institutions, and how quickly “tradition” can turn into life-threatening abuse.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for Edgewood parents and families who need answers about hazing: what it really looks like in 2025, Texas laws that protect your child, the national patterns playing out at our state’s universities, and what legal options exist when institutions fail to protect students. Whether your child attends nearby University of Texas at Tyler, commutes to Dallas-Fort Worth metro schools, or studies hours away in College Station or Austin, Texas law provides pathways to accountability.

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

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Tactics

Hazing has evolved far beyond the “animal house” stereotypes. For Edgewood families sending children to Texas universities, understanding these modern tactics is crucial for recognition and prevention. Today’s hazing often wears disguises: “team building,” “wellness challenges,” “tradition preservation,” or “pledge education.”

Digital/Online Hasing: The 24/7 Control System
The smartphone in your child’s pocket has become hazing’s primary tool. Through GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord, and private Instagram groups, pledges face constant surveillance and demands. They’re required to respond instantly to messages at all hours, share live locations via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps, and post humiliating content on social media as “challenges.” Sleep deprivation now happens digitally—3 AM check-ins, mandatory overnight “study sessions” via Zoom, and constant notification anxiety. This 24/7 access creates psychological imprisonment that extends far beyond physical events.

Alcohol & Substance Hazing: The Still-Deadly Standard
Despite decades of warnings, forced alcohol consumption remains the leading cause of hazing deaths nationwide. The scripts are tragically predictable: “Big/Little” nights where pledges are given handles of liquor, “family tree” drinking games where wrong answers mean shots, lineup challenges where groups compete to finish bottles fastest. At Texas A&M, Sigma Alpha Epsilon pledges suffered chemical burns from industrial-strength cleaner poured on them during hazing. At University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi pledges were forced to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, then immediately required to sprint. These aren’t accidents—they’re calculated rituals with known fatal outcomes.

Physical Hazing: Disguised as “Fitness” or “Tradition”
Extreme physical abuse now often wears the mask of legitimate activity. “Workout challenges” that involve hundreds of push-ups until collapse (like the 100+ push-ups and 500 squats that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez at UH). “Team building” exercises that include bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, and “save-your-brother” drills in extreme weather. Corps of Cadets traditions that cross into torture, like the Texas A&M case where a cadet was bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. These activities aren’t about fitness—they’re about asserting power through pain.

The Three-Tier System: Recognizing All Levels of Abuse

Understanding hazing’s escalation helps Edgewood families recognize early warning signs:

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing
These behaviors establish power imbalance while seeming “harmless”:

Being “on call” 24/7 for older members’ errands
Mandatory chauffeur duties at all hours
Carrying degrading items (the “pledge fanny pack” at UH contained condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices)
Using derogatory nicknames or answering only to certain titles
Social isolation from non-members without permission

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing
Behaviors causing emotional or physical discomfort:

Sleep deprivation through late-night “meetings” or tasks
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpleasant substances
Verbal abuse, yelling sessions, “grilling” interviews
Public humiliation in group chats or meetings
Excessive calisthenics beyond safe limits

Tier 3: Violent Hazing
Activities with high potential for serious injury or death:

Forced/coerced alcohol consumption to dangerous levels
Physical beatings, paddling, “branding”
Dangerous physical tests (blindfolded tackles, “glass ceiling” rituals)
Sexualized hazing (forced nudity, simulated acts)
Kidnapping/restraint (hog-tying, as occurred with another UH Pi Kappa Phi pledge)
Exposure to extreme environments (cold weather in underwear, lying in vomit)

Where Hazing Happens: Beyond Fraternity Row

Edgewood parents should know hazing extends far beyond Greek life:

Corps of Cadets & Military Groups: Texas A&M’s Corps has faced multiple hazing lawsuits, including the “roasted pig” binding case. The military-style hierarchy and tradition emphasis creates ripe conditions for abuse disguised as discipline.

Athletic Teams: From Northwestern University’s football scandal to Baylor’s baseball suspensions, athletic hazing often involves sexualized rituals, excessive conditioning punishment, and rookie degradation.

Spirit & Tradition Groups: UT Austin’s Texas Cowboys and other “secret society” type organizations have faced hazing allegations. The exclusivity and tradition focus breed abusive initiation practices.

Marching Bands & Performance Groups: The Florida A&M drum major death and other band hazing incidents show even non-Greek organizations develop dangerous traditions.

Academic & Honor Societies: Surprisingly, even pre-professional and academic groups have documented hazing, from forced drinking at business fraternities to degrading initiations at honor societies.

Texas Hazing Law & Liability Framework: What Edgewood Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Child’s Legal Protection

Texas has specific anti-hazing statutes in the Education Code that provide both criminal penalties and civil liability pathways. For Edgewood families, understanding these laws is crucial for holding perpetrators accountable.

§ 37.151: The Broad Definition That Protects Your Child
Texas law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

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

Key protections for Edgewood families:

Location doesn’t matter: Hazing at off-campus houses, Airbnbs, retreats, or bars is still illegal
Mental harm counts: Psychological abuse, humiliation, and trauma qualify as hazing
Recklessness suffices: They don’t need to intend harm—just act with disregard for safety
“Consent” is irrelevant: § 37.155 explicitly states consent is NOT a defense

§ 37.152: Criminal Penalties That Can Apply

Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing without serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death
Additional crimes: Failing to report hazing (if you’re a member/officer who knew) and retaliation against reporters are separate misdemeanors

§ 37.153: Organizational Liability That Matters
Organizations can be prosecuted and fined up to $10,000 per violation if they authorized or encouraged hazing OR if officers knew and failed to report it. This means the fraternity/sorority itself, not just individuals, faces consequences.

§ 37.154: Good-Faith Reporting Protection
Anyone who in good faith reports hazing to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability resulting from the report. Many Texas universities also offer medical amnesty—your child won’t face university discipline for underage drinking if they call 911 for someone in medical danger.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Dual Pathways

When hazing occurs, two parallel legal processes may unfold:

Criminal Cases (The State vs. Perpetrators)

Who brings it: District or County Attorney
Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
Edgewood jurisdiction: If hazing occurs at UH (Harris County), Texas A&M (Brazos County), UT (Travis County), SMU (Dallas County), or Baylor (McLennan County), local prosecutors there handle criminal charges

Civil Cases (Your Family vs. All Responsible Parties)

Who brings it: Victims or surviving families
Goal: Compensation for damages and institutional accountability
Typical claims: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
Edgewood advantage: You can file civil suits in appropriate counties regardless of your residence

Critical understanding: A criminal conviction is NOT required to pursue a civil case. Many hazing civil cases proceed successfully even without criminal charges, as they have different standards of proof and focus on different wrongs.

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Accountability Levers

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
This federal law requires colleges receiving federal aid (all Texas public universities and most privates) to:

Publicly report hazing incidents more transparently
Strengthen hazing prevention education
Maintain public hazing data (phased in by 2026)
For Edgewood families, this means more accessible information about which organizations have violations at your child’s school.

Title IX & Clery Act Implications
When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger, requiring universities to investigate and address the climate. The Clery Act requires reporting certain campus crimes—many hazing incidents involve reportable assaults or alcohol crimes. These federal laws provide additional leverage when universities try to minimize hazing as “just tradition.”

The Full Liability Universe: Who Can Be Held Accountable

One of our firm’s strengths is identifying EVERY potentially liable entity—not just the obvious parties. For Edgewood families, understanding this full universe is crucial:

Individual Students:

Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
Chapter officers (presidents, pledgemasters, risk managers) with enhanced responsibility

Local Chapter/Organization:

The fraternity/sorority club itself if incorporated
Chapter housing corporations (separate legal entities that own houses)

National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
Liability hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents

University or Governing Board:

The school or regents under negligence or civil rights theories
Key questions: Did they have prior warnings? Did they enforce policies? Were they deliberately indifferent?

Third Parties:

Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces (negligent security, premises liability)
Bars or alcohol providers (Texas dram shop liability for overserving)
Security companies or event organizers

Insurance Carriers:

Homeowner’s policies of individual members
Chapter liability policies
National organization umbrella coverage
University insurance

Our insurance insider advantage—Mr. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm—is particularly valuable here. We know exactly how these carriers try to deny coverage, set inadequate reserves, and delay claims. We anticipate their “intentional act” exclusions and bad faith tactics because we used to defend them.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Edgewood Families

Alcohol Poisoning & Death: The Repeating Tragedy

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
During a bid-acceptance event, 19-year-old Piazza consumed dangerous amounts of alcohol in a drinking game. He fell repeatedly, suffering traumatic brain injuries, while fraternity members delayed calling 911 for nearly 12 hours. Security camera footage captured the horrific sequence. The case resulted in dozens of criminal charges, substantial civil settlements, and Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.

Takeaway for Edgewood families: Delay in seeking medical help dramatically increases liability. Universities and fraternities now know immediate medical response is mandatory—failure constitutes gross negligence.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
The 20-year-old pledge was forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” event. He died from alcohol poisoning. The case resulted in multiple criminal convictions, a $3 million settlement with BGSU, approximately $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national, and the chapter president being personally ordered to pay $6.5 million.

Takeaway for Edgewood families: “Big/Little” nights are known deadly scripts. National fraternities have been repeatedly warned about these events—their continued occurrence shows deliberate indifference.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
After a “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking, Gruver’s blood alcohol content reached 0.495%. He died from alcohol toxicity. The case led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute) and a $6.1 million verdict against individual defendants.

Takeaway for Edgewood families: Even “educational” framed activities can be deadly hazing. Courts reject the “it was just a game” defense when alcohol coercion is involved.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing: Brutality Disguised as Tradition

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
During a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains, Deng was blindfolded, weighted with a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a “glass ceiling” ritual. He suffered fatal traumatic brain injuries while members delayed calling 911. The national fraternity was convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter—a landmark organizational criminal liability case.

Takeaway for Edgewood families: Off-campus retreats are particularly dangerous hazing venues. National organizations can’t escape liability by claiming events were “unofficial” or at remote locations.

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)
During a “pledge dad reveal” night, the 18-year-old was forced to consume excessive alcohol. He suffered severe, permanent brain damage—unable to walk, talk, or see, requiring 24/7 care for life. The case settled with 22 defendants for multi-million dollar amounts (largely confidential).

Takeaway for Edgewood families: Non-fatal injuries can be more devastating than deaths financially and emotionally. Life care plans for catastrophic injuries require specialized legal and economic expertise we possess.

Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football Scandal (2023–2025)
Former players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the football program over years. Multiple lawsuits followed, head coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired (then settled his wrongful termination suit confidentially), and the university faced massive reputational damage.

Takeaway for Edgewood families: Hazing permeates athletic departments with big budgets and powerful coaches. These cases often involve complex institutional cover-ups requiring federal court experience.

What These Cases Mean for Edgewood Families

These national precedents establish crucial legal principles that benefit Texas families:

Pattern evidence matters: When a Texas chapter repeats conduct that caused injuries elsewhere, that pattern shows foreseeability and strengthens negligence claims
National knowledge creates duty: National headquarters can’t claim “we didn’t know” when identical incidents occurred at other chapters
Institutional liability is real: Universities and national organizations face substantial financial exposure beyond individual members
Timing is critical: Evidence preservation within days—sometimes hours—makes or breaks cases

Texas University Focus: Where Edgewood Students Encounter Hazing Risk

University of Houston: Lessons from Our Active Pi Kappa Phi Case

For Edgewood Families: UH is a common destination for East Texas students seeking an urban university experience within reasonable driving distance. Its diverse Greek system presents both opportunity and risk.

Campus Culture & Greek Landscape:
UH hosts over 40 fraternities and sororities across four governing councils: Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (Divine Nine), and Multicultural Greek Council. The urban commuter-heavy campus means much Greek activity occurs off-campus at chapter houses and rented spaces.

Documented Incidents & Institutional Response:
Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu (2025) – Our Active Case
In November 2025, we filed a $10 million lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez detailing extreme hazing that caused rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure requiring four-day hospitalization. Allegations include:

“Pledge fanny pack” humiliation with degrading items
Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting
100+ push-ups and 500 squats under expulsion threats
Hose spraying “similar to waterboarding”
Hog-tying of another pledge for over an hour
Chapter was suspended November 6, 2025, then voted to surrender charter November 14, 2025
UH called conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised cooperation with law enforcement

Pi Kappa Alpha (2016)
Pledges allegedly deprived of food, water, and sleep during multi-day event; one suffered lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table. Chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and university suspension.

UH’s Hazing Policy & Reporting:
UH prohibits hazing on- and off-campus, with reporting through Dean of Students, Student Conduct, and UHPD. The university maintains some public disciplinary records but less transparency than UT Austin’s system.

How a UH Hazing Case Proceeds for Edgewood Families:

Criminal jurisdiction: UHPD or Houston Police Department depending on location
Civil venue: Harris County courts typically
Potential defendants: Individuals, chapter, national headquarters, UH System Board of Regents, property owners
Evidence sources: Group chats (GroupMe predominant), social media, medical records from Texas Medical Center facilities, UH disciplinary files

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture & Greek Life Intersection

For Edgewood Families: A&M’s unique Corps of Cadets tradition and massive Greek system create distinct hazing risks. Many East Texas families have Aggie traditions.

Corps of Cadets Hazing Cases:
2023 “Roasted Pig” Binding Lawsuit
A cadet alleged degrading hazing including being bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth, simulated sexual acts, and psychological abuse. He sought over $1 million; A&M stated it handled matter under its rules but case highlighted systemic issues.

Corps Culture Understanding:
The Corps’ military-style hierarchy and tradition emphasis can normalize abusive practices as “discipline” or “character building.” This creates complex liability questions about institutional knowledge and supervision.

Greek Life Incidents:
Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns (2021)
Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. Pledges sued for $1 million; fraternity suspended two years.

Texas A&M’s Hazing Framework:
A&M addresses hazing through Student Conduct (for all students) and Corps regulations (specific to cadets). The university maintains some public records but less comprehensive than UT’s system.

How an A&M Case Proceeds for Edgewood Families:

Criminal jurisdiction: College Station PD or Brazos County Sheriff
Civil venue: Brazos County courts
Special considerations: Corps cases may involve military-style chain of command arguments; Greek cases often involve off-campus houses in College Station’s extensive rental market
Evidence challenges: Strong “Code of Silence” tradition requires aggressive digital forensics and witness cooperation strategies

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency & Repeated Violations

For Edgewood Families: UT’s public hazing violation database provides unique transparency but also reveals persistent problems across organizations.

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Database:
UT maintains one of Texas’ most transparent systems at hazing.utexas.edu, listing organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions. This database itself becomes evidence in civil cases showing pattern and institutional knowledge.

Documented Violations Include:
Pi Kappa Alpha (2023)
New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter placed on probation with required hazing-prevention education.

Texas Wranglers & Other Spirit Groups
Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices showing hazing extends beyond Greek life.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (2024)
Australian exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members resulting in dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose. Student sued for over $1 million; chapter already under suspension for prior violations.

UT’s Policy & Reporting System:
UT prohibits hazing through Dean of Students Office with online reporting, anonymous options, and dedicated investigators. The public database, while commendable for transparency, also reveals how often organizations repeat violations despite sanctions.

How a UT Case Proceeds for Edgewood Families:

Criminal jurisdiction: UTPD or Austin PD
Civil venue: Travis County courts
Strategic advantage: UT’s own violation database provides ready-made pattern evidence
Discovery targets: Prior incident files, internal investigations, correspondence between Greek Life office and nationals

Southern Methodist University: Private University Dynamics

For Edgewood Families: SMU’s affluent private campus culture and strong Greek presence present unique dynamics, with less public transparency than state schools.

Documented Incidents:
Kappa Alpha Order (2017)
New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep; chapter suspended with multi-year recruiting restrictions.

SMU’s Hazing Framework:
As a private university, SMU has more discretion in handling cases but also faces different liability standards without sovereign immunity protections. The university offers anonymous reporting through systems like Real Response.

Private University Considerations:

Less public records availability requires more aggressive discovery
Different insurance structures and coverage
Potential for quicker internal resolution but often with confidentiality requirements that limit accountability

How an SMU Case Proceeds for Edgewood Families:

Criminal jurisdiction: Dallas PD or University Park PD
Civil venue: Dallas County courts
Strategic approach: Leverage SMU’s desire to avoid public scandal while pursuing full discovery of internal files
Insurance considerations: Private university insurance often has different coverage terms than state entities

Baylor University: Religious Identity & Institutional Scrutiny

For Edgewood Families: Baylor’s religious identity and recent history of institutional scandal create complex dynamics for hazing accountability.

Documented Incidents:
Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020)
14 players suspended following hazing investigation; staggered suspensions through early season highlighted athletic department issues.

Institutional Context:
Baylor’s recent Title IX sexual assault scandal and resulting reforms create both challenges and opportunities for hazing cases. The university is under heightened scrutiny but has also developed more robust reporting systems.

Baylor’s Unique Dynamics:

Religious mission creates additional framing around “character” and “community”
Recent legal settlements establish precedents for institutional liability
Waco’s smaller legal community affects local counsel dynamics

How a Baylor Case Proceeds for Edgewood Families:

Criminal jurisdiction: Waco PD or Baylor PD
Civil venue: McLennan County courts
Strategic considerations: Recent institutional trauma affects university’s risk tolerance; religious framing requires careful navigation
Evidence opportunities: New reporting systems may have better documentation than older cases

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories That Matter for Edgewood Cases

Why National Patterns Create Liability

When Edgewood families face hazing at a Texas chapter, the national organization’s history becomes crucial evidence. National headquarters cannot claim ignorance when identical conduct has caused deaths and injuries at other chapters nationwide. This pattern evidence establishes foreseeability—they knew or should have known this would happen—and deliberate indifference when they failed to prevent it.

Major National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State University, alcohol poisoning death (2021)
David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois University, alcohol poisoning death (2012), $14 million settlement
Multiple Texas chapters: Violations at UT Austin, other campuses
Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol events, forced consumption, delayed medical response
Liability angle: Nationals received repeated warnings about this script but failed to implement effective prevention

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

Traumatic Brain Injury: University of Alabama lawsuit (2023)
Chemical Burns: Texas A&M lawsuit (2021)
Assault Case: UT Austin lawsuit (2024)
Multiple deaths nationwide: Long history of alcohol-related hazing fatalities
Pattern: Physical abuse, forced drinking, dangerous “traditions”
Liability angle: Despite 2014 pledge process elimination announcement, violations continue showing ineffective enforcement

Pi Kappa Phi

Andrew Coffey: Florida State University, alcohol poisoning death (2017)
Leonel Bermudez: University of Houston, rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure (2025) – our active case
Pattern: Physical endurance hazing combined with alcohol coercion
Liability angle: Nationals failed to prevent known dangerous combinations of physical and alcohol hazing

Phi Delta Theta

Max Gruver: LSU, alcohol poisoning death (2017), Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act
Pattern: Drinking games framed as “education” or “tradition”
Liability angle: Nationals knew drinking game dangers but insufficient chapter supervision

Kappa Alpha Order

SMU Paddling Case: 2017 suspension for paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation
Multiple campus sanctions: History of physical hazing violations
Pattern: Traditional physical hazing despite modern prohibitions
Liability angle: Failure to eliminate known dangerous traditions

How National Histories Strengthen Edgewood Cases

Evidence of Notice
Each prior incident at another chapter serves as notice to nationals that specific activities are dangerous. When those same activities injure a Texas student, nationals can’t claim “we didn’t know this could happen.”

Proof of Inadequate Prevention
If nationals received reports from other chapters but only issued “warnings” or “probation” rather than effective intervention, that shows their prevention efforts were inadequate—strengthening negligence claims.

Punitive Damages Foundation
When nationals ignore clear patterns of harm, courts may award punitive damages to punish the recklessness and deter future harm. The national history establishes this pattern of indifference.

Insurance Coverage Arguments
Nationals’ knowledge of prior incidents can affect insurance coverage disputes. If they knew risks but failed to implement prevention, insurers may have stronger arguments against coverage—but victims have stronger claims against nationals personally.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages & Strategy for Edgewood Families

Critical Evidence That Wins Cases

Digital Communications: The Modern Paper Trail

Group messaging: GroupMe (most common), WhatsApp, iMessage groups, Discord servers, fraternity-specific apps
Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments, Facebook Messenger
Recovery capability: Deleted messages often recoverable through digital forensics
Edgewood action: Screenshot EVERYTHING immediately—don’t let embarrassment cause deletion

Photos & Videos

Event documentation: Content filmed by members during hazing (often shared in group chats)
Injury documentation: Photos of bruises, burns, injuries from multiple angles over days
Location evidence: House exteriors, room layouts, alcohol containers, props
Surveillance footage: Ring/doorbell cameras, security systems at houses

Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals: “Tradition” lists, requirements, schedules
Officer communications: Emails/texts about “what we’ll do to pledges”
National policies: Risk management manuals, anti-hazing training materials
Financial records: Dues payments, alcohol purchases, fine systems

University Records

Prior conduct files: Previous violations, probation letters, suspension records
Incident reports: Campus police reports, conduct office investigations
Clery reports: Annual crime statistics that might include hazing-related offenses
Internal emails: Correspondence among administrators about the organization

Medical & Psychological Records

Emergency care: ER reports, ambulance records, hospitalization summaries
Specialist care: Orthopedic, renal, psychological evaluations
Toxicology: Blood alcohol levels, drug screens
Psychological impact: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses and treatment plans

Witness Testimony

Other pledges: Those who experienced same hazing
Former members: Those who quit or were expelled
Roommates/RA’s: Observed physical or behavioral changes
Medical providers: Treatment observations and prognosis

Compensable Damages in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses)

Medical expenses: Past and future ER, hospitalization, surgery, therapy, medications
Lost income/earning capacity: Missed work, delayed career entry, reduced future earnings if permanently impaired
Educational impact: Lost tuition, forfeited scholarships, transfer costs
Life care costs: For catastrophic injuries (like Danny Santulli’s $20+ million lifetime care)

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective But Real Harm)

Physical pain & suffering: From injuries, medical procedures, ongoing pain
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation, loss of dignity
Loss of enjoyment: Can’t participate in sports, hobbies, normal college life
Relationship damage: Strained family and friend relationships

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)

Funeral/burial costs: Immediate expenses
Loss of financial support: Deceased’s expected lifetime contributions
Loss of companionship: Parents’ and siblings’ emotional loss
Grief counseling: Family mental health treatment

Punitive Damages (When Available)

Purpose: Punish especially reckless or indifferent conduct
When awarded: When defendants knew dangers but acted anyway
Texas limitations: Statutory caps apply except in certain intentional tort cases

Strategic Considerations for Edgewood Families

Preservation Letters
Immediately sending preservation letters to universities, fraternities, and individuals demanding they preserve all evidence (messages, documents, videos) is crucial. Destruction after receipt may constitute spoliation with adverse inference penalties.

Multi-Defendant Approach
Suing all potentially liable parties—individuals, chapter, nationals, university, property owners—creates multiple pressure points and insurance coverage sources. It also prevents defendants from pointing fingers at each other without accepting responsibility.

Expert Utilization

Medical experts: Explain injuries, treatment needs, permanency
Economic experts: Calculate lifetime care costs, lost earnings
Digital forensics: Recover deleted messages, authenticate evidence
Greek life experts: Explain organizational dynamics, coercion mechanisms
Security experts: Evaluate premises liability for property owners

Insurance Coverage Battles
Our insurance insider advantage—Mr. Peña’s defense background—is particularly valuable here. We know how carriers:

Set inadequate reserves hoping for quick low settlements
Use “intentional act” exclusions to deny coverage
Delay payments to pressure financially strained families
Coordinate with other insurers to limit total exposure

Settlement vs. Trial Strategy
Most cases settle, but trial readiness is essential for leverage. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which forces more serious settlement negotiations. For Edgewood families concerned about privacy, confidentially structured settlements often provide both compensation and protection from public scrutiny.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Edgewood Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Physical signs: Unexplained bruises, burns, injuries; extreme exhaustion; weight changes; sleep deprivation patterns
Behavioral changes: Sudden secrecy; withdrawal from family/friends; personality shifts (anxiety, depression, irritability); defensiveness about organization
Academic red flags: Grades dropping; missing classes; skipping assignments for “mandatory” events
Financial patterns: Unexpected large expenses; frequent alcohol purchases; requests for money without clear explanation
Digital behavior: Constant phone monitoring; anxiety about notifications; obsessive message deletion; location sharing demands

How to Talk to Your Child

Open questions: “How are things going with [organization]?” “What do they ask new members to do?” “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
Non-judgmental listening: If they open up, listen without immediate anger at organization
Safety emphasis: Make clear their well-being matters more than membership status
Support assurance: “You can leave anytime, and we’ll support you completely”

If Your Child Is Hurt

Medical priority: Get immediate care even if they resist
Evidence preservation: Screenshot messages, photograph injuries, save physical items
Documentation: Write down everything they say with dates/times
Professional consultation: Contact experienced hazing attorney within 24-48 hours
University reporting: Report to appropriate campus offices (with attorney guidance)

Dealing with Universities

Document all communications: Emails, calls, meetings
Ask specific questions: “What prior incidents involved this organization?” “What specific actions are you taking?”
Understand limitations: University conduct process ≠ legal accountability
Legal accompaniment: Have attorney present or advising for significant meetings

For Students/Pledges: Safety & Rights

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment

Are you being forced or pressured to do something unsafe or degrading?
Would you do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
Is the activity dangerous, illegal, or something you’d hide from parents/administrators?
Are older members making you do things they don’t have to do themselves?
Are you being told to keep secrets or lie about activities?

If you answered yes to any, it’s likely hazing.

Exiting Safely

Immediate danger: Call 911, get to safe location
De-pledging: Send clear written resignation to chapter president/new member educator
Avoid “one last meeting”: Don’t attend meetings after deciding to leave
Support system: Tell trusted person (parent, RA, friend) first as witness

Evidence Collection While It’s Happening

Screenshots: Full conversations with timestamps and names visible
Recordings: Texas is one-party consent—you can record conversations you’re part of
Photos: Injuries from multiple angles, locations, objects used
Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
Witness info: Names/contacts of others who saw what happened

Reporting Options

Campus: Dean of Students, Student Conduct, Title IX Office (if sexualized), Campus Police
Local police: For criminal acts (assault, furnishing alcohol to minors)
Anonymous: National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE
Legal: Confidential consultation with experienced attorney

For Former Members/Witnesses: Coming Forward

Addressing Guilt & Fear
Many former participants feel guilt about their involvement or fear about consequences. Coming forward can:

Prevent future harm to others
Provide personal redemption
Potentially reduce your own legal exposure through cooperation
Create meaningful institutional change

Legal Protection Considerations

Separate counsel: You may need your own attorney if potentially liable
Immunity possibilities: Good-faith reporters have protections
Witness cooperation: Providing evidence and testimony may be viewed favorably
Ethical obligation: Preventing future harm is morally significant

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKE #1: Letting Your Child Delete Messages
What happens: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble” leads to destroyed evidence
Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; may be obstruction; makes case nearly impossible
Better approach: Preserve EVERYTHING immediately—even embarrassing content

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization Directly
What happens: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Better approach: Document everything, call attorney before any confrontation

MISTAKE #3: Signing University “Resolution” Forms
What happens: Universities pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue; settlements often far below case value
Better approach: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

MISTAKE #4: Posting on Social Media First
What happens: “I want people to know what happened”
Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Better approach: Document privately; let attorney control public messaging

MISTAKE #5: Waiting “To See How University Handles It”
What happens: “We’re investigating internally”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
Better approach: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

MISTAKE #6: Talking to Insurance Adjusters Unrepresented
What happens: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements used against you; early settlements are lowball
Better approach: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Edgewood Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity protections but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals personally. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity obstacles. Every case requires specific factual analysis—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case evaluation.

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

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Texas law explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing (§ 37.155). Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion isn’t true voluntary consent. This is why fraternity/sorority “waivers” have limited legal effect.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if harm wasn’t immediately apparent. In cases involving cover-ups, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to preserve your rights.

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

“Will my child’s name be public?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“What will this cost our family?”
We work on contingency fee—you pay nothing unless we win. We cover all case expenses initially and are reimbursed from recovery. This makes justice accessible regardless of family resources.

Why Attorney911 for Edgewood Hazing Cases: Texas Institutional Litigation Specialists

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

When your Edgewood family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. Here’s why Attorney911 is uniquely qualified for Texas hazing litigation:

Insurance Insider Advantage: We Know Their Playbook
Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm, representing the exact insurance companies that cover universities and national fraternities. He knows:

How they set inadequate reserves hoping for quick low settlements
Their “intentional act” exclusion arguments and how to counter them
Delay tactics used to pressure financially strained families
Coordination strategies between multiple insurers to limit exposure
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience
Ralph Manginello’s involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation—one of few Texas firms selected—proves our capability against billion-dollar defendants with unlimited legal budgets. We’ve faced:

Massive document discovery against institutional defendants
Expert-heavy cases requiring sophisticated presentation
Federal court procedural complexity
Multi-defendant coordination challenges
“If we can take on BP, we’re not intimidated by national fraternities or university legal teams.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results
Our proven track record includes multi-million dollar recoveries in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We understand:

Life care planning economics for permanent injuries
Economist collaboration for lost earning capacity calculations
Non-economic damage valuation for juries
Structured settlement optimization for long-term needs
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force serious accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Dual Capability
Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)—an elite criminal defense credential—means we understand both sides of hazing cases. We can:

Advise on criminal exposure for involved students
Navigate parallel criminal and civil proceedings
Protect witness rights during investigations
Advise on cooperation agreements with prosecutors
“We see the whole legal chessboard, not just the civil squares.”

Investigative Depth & Expert Networks
Our experience with trucking accidents, refinery explosions, and maritime injuries has built networks of experts we deploy in hazing cases:

Digital forensics specialists for deleted message recovery
Medical experts for rhabdomyolysis, TBI, renal injury
Greek life culture experts explaining coercion dynamics
Economists for lifetime care cost calculations
Psychologists for PTSD and trauma assessment
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Why Texas Hazing Cases Require Specialized Counsel

Understanding Greek Organizational Dynamics
Fraternities and sororities operate with complex structures: undergraduate chapters, housing corporations, alumni associations, national headquarters. Each has different insurance, different legal status, and different liability exposure. We trace these connections using our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a proprietary database of 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros with EINs, addresses, and organizational relationships.

Sample Texas Greek Organization Entities from Our Database:

Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc – EIN 462267515 – Frisco, TX 75035 (involved in our UH case)
Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Rho Corp. – Austin, TX (UT Austin house corporation)
Sampled from IRS B83 and Cause IQ public records

Navigating University Sovereign Immunity
Public Texas universities have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist. We know how to:

Plead around immunity with proper legal theories
Sue individual employees in personal capacity
Leverage Title IX and federal law exceptions
Use settlement pressure despite immunity arguments

Managing Digital Evidence Challenges
Modern hazing lives on smartphones. We work with digital forensics experts to:

Recover deleted messages from GroupMe, WhatsApp, etc.
Authenticate social media evidence for admissibility
Trace location data and metadata
Preserve evidence before auto-delete functions activate

Our Commitment to Edgewood Families

We serve families throughout Texas from our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices. For Edgewood and Van Zandt County families, we offer:

Geographic understanding: Knowledge of local courts, venues, and practical logistics
University-specific experience: Familiarity with UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor systems
Practical case management: We handle travel, accommodations, and logistics so you can focus on healing
Spanish-language services: Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish—se habla Español
Compassionate approach: We know this is about more than money—it’s about answers, accountability, and preventing future harm

Your Next Step: Confidential Consultation

If your Edgewood family is facing a hazing situation at any Texas university, we want to help. You don’t have to navigate this alone against powerful institutions with endless legal resources.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll:

Listen to your story without judgment
Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain your legal options clearly and honestly
Discuss realistic timelines and expectations
Answer all your questions about process and costs
Apply no pressure—you decide what’s right for your family

Everything you tell us is protected by attorney-client confidentiality from our first conversation.

Immediate Contact Information:

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

What to Have Ready for Your Consultation:

Brief timeline of events
Any preserved evidence (screenshots, photos, medical records)
Names of involved individuals and organizations
Your child’s university and status
Your most pressing questions

Whether you’re in Edgewood proper, Van Zandt County, or anywhere across East Texas, if hazing has impacted your family at a Texas university, we have the experience, resources, and determination to help you seek answers and accountability.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to help.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi Case Coverage:

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Evidence preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes to avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Contingency fee explanation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website & Practice Areas:

Main website: 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