Hazing in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide for City of Prairie View Families Seeking Accountability

For families in the City of Prairie View, Waller County, sending a child to college represents hope, investment, and pride. Yet, beneath the surface of campus tradition and Greek letters lies a dangerous reality: hazing that can turn this dream into a nightmare. We see it firsthand. Right now, just over an hour from your community, we are fighting one of the most serious hazing lawsuits in Texas—representing Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million case against the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter, and 13 fraternity leaders.

This guide exists for you—the parents, grandparents, and families in Prairie View, Waller County, and across Texas who need to understand what modern hazing looks like, how Texas law protects your child, and what true accountability requires. Whether your student attends Prairie View A&M University right here in our community or has ventured to UT Austin, Texas A&M, or another campus, the patterns of coercion, abuse, and institutional failure are disturbingly similar.

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

For Prairie View families, understanding what constitutes hazing is the first step toward protection. Modern hazing has evolved far beyond the simplistic images of paddling and “hell week.” It’s a sophisticated system of coercion that preys on a young person’s desire to belong.

The Modern Definition Texas Courts Recognize

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

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

Critically, under Texas law, “consent” is not a defense. Even if your child said “yes” or participated voluntarily, the power imbalance, peer pressure, and fear of social exclusion create a coercive environment that the law recognizes as invalid consent.

The Three-Tier System of Modern Hazing

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

24/7 digital control: Mandatory group chat monitoring, instant response requirements at all hours
Servitude demands: Acting as designated drivers, cleaning rooms, running errands for older members
Social isolation: Cutting off contact with non-members, requiring permission to socialize
“Voluntary” activities: Framed as optional but carrying implicit threats of exclusion

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Creates Hostile Environment)

Sleep deprivation: Late-night “meetings,” 3 AM wake-up calls, multi-day events with minimal rest
Forced consumption: Spoiled food, excessive amounts of bland items (milk, bread, hot dogs)
Extreme physical activity: “Smokings” with hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse
Public humiliation: Embarrassing costumes, forced performances, “roasting” sessions
Digital degradation: Forced TikTok challenges, humiliating social media posts

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (High Potential for Serious Injury or Death)

Forced alcohol consumption: Lineup drinking games, “Big/Little” nights with handles of liquor
Physical beatings: Paddling, punching, kicking, “branding” with burns or cuts
Dangerous physical tests: Blindfolded tackles (“glass ceiling” rituals), forced fights
Sexualized hazing: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual coercion
Chemical exposure: Industrial cleaners poured on skin causing burns (as seen in Texas A&M SAE case)
Restraint/Kidnapping: Tying up, blindfolding, transporting to remote locations

Where Hazing Actually Happens in Texas

While fraternities receive the most attention, hazing permeates many campus organizations:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural chapters)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC (especially at Texas A&M with its military tradition)
Athletic Teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheerleading)
Spirit & Tradition Groups (Texas Cowboys, Reveliers, and similar organizations)
Marching Bands & Performance Groups
Academic & Honor Societies

For Prairie View families with students at Prairie View A&M University, this means vigilance extends beyond Greek life to any organization claiming tradition as justification for dangerous behavior.

Texas Hazing Law: What Prairie View Families Need to Know

Texas has some of the nation’s clearest anti-hazing statutes, but understanding how they apply in practice is crucial for families seeking accountability.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37 – The Core Framework

§ 37.151 Definition:
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that endangers mental or physical health for purposes of initiation or affiliation.

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause 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

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability:
Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can face:

Fines up to $10,000 per violation
Loss of university recognition
Civil lawsuits for negligence and wrongful death

§ 37.154 Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting:
Students who report hazing or call 911 in medical emergencies receive protection from civil/criminal liability—a critical provision that saves lives by removing the fear of “getting in trouble.”

§ 37.155 Consent Not a Defense:
Explicitly states that victim “consent” does not excuse hazing—directly countering the most common defense used by perpetrators.

§ 37.156 Institutional Reporting Requirements:
Texas universities must maintain and publish annual hazing violation reports, creating public records that families can use to identify problematic organizations.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Pathways

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State):

Purpose: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases
Agency: Local police, campus police, or district attorneys

Civil Cases (Brought by Victims/Families):

Purpose: Compensation and accountability
Legal theories: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision
Potential defendants: Individuals, local chapters, national organizations, universities, property owners

These cases often proceed simultaneously, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue civil accountability. In fact, the burden of proof in civil cases (“preponderance of evidence”) is lower than in criminal cases (“beyond reasonable doubt”).

Federal Law Overlay: Title IX, Clery, and the Stop Campus Hazing Act

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
Requires colleges receiving federal aid to publicly report hazing incidents and strengthen prevention programs—phased implementation through 2026.

Title IX:
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, universities have specific investigation and response obligations.

Clery Act:
Mandates reporting of certain crimes (including assaults and alcohol violations that often accompany hazing) in campus safety statistics.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

The tragedies that have unfolded on campuses nationwide provide both warning and precedent for Prairie View families. These cases show disturbingly consistent patterns.

Alcohol Poisoning Death Pattern: The Deadly Script

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017):
During a bid-acceptance night, Piazza consumed dangerous amounts of alcohol, suffered multiple falls captured on chapter security cameras, and died from traumatic brain injuries after fraternity members delayed calling 911 for 12 hours. The case resulted in criminal charges against 28 members, a $12.6 million lawsuit settlement, and Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):
Forced to participate in a “Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers triggered alcohol consumption, Gruver died with a 0.495% BAC. The case led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute) and a $6.1 million civil verdict.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021):
During a “Big/Little” event, Foltz was forced to consume nearly a full bottle of whiskey, died from alcohol poisoning, and his family reached a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, $3M from BGSU).

Pattern Insight: These cases show identical scripts—forced drinking during initiation events, delayed medical response, and organizational attempts to cover up. The same national fraternities operate chapters at Texas universities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013):
Blindfolded and weighted with a heavy backpack during a “glass ceiling” ritual at a Pennsylvania retreat, Deng suffered fatal head injuries while fraternity members delayed calling 911. The national fraternity was convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter—a rare instance of organizational criminal liability.

Takeaway for Texas Families: Off-campus retreats and “traditions” framed as bonding can be particularly dangerous, as they occur away from campus oversight while still creating organizational liability.

Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025):
Former players alleged systemic sexualized and racist hazing within the football program, leading to head coach Pat Fitzgerald’s firing, confidential settlements, and ongoing litigation demonstrating that hazing permeates high-profile athletic programs with the same destructive patterns.

Western Kentucky University Swim Team (2012-2015):
Investigations revealed years of verbal and physical abuse, resulting in program suspension, coaching terminations, and a $75,000 settlement with a former team member.

What These National Cases Mean for Prairie View Families

Patterns repeat: The same fraternities with national hazing histories have chapters at Texas universities
Delayed response kills: Hours matter in alcohol poisoning and trauma cases
Cover-up culture prevails: Organizations consistently prioritize self-protection over victim safety
Legal accountability works: Multi-million dollar settlements and felony convictions demonstrate that institutions can be held responsible
Your case matters: Every successful lawsuit makes the next victim’s path to justice clearer

Texas University Focus: Where Prairie View Students Attend

Prairie View families have deep connections to multiple Texas campuses. Understanding the specific hazing landscape at each institution is crucial for prevention and response.

Prairie View A&M University: Your Community’s Campus

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
As a historically Black university with strong Greek life traditions, Prairie View A&M represents both opportunity and risk for local students. The Divine Nine NPHC organizations have deep roots here, with chapters that must balance proud tradition against dangerous hazing practices that sometimes persist despite national prohibitions.

Documented Incidents & Response:
Texas A&M System records show periodic hazing investigations at Prairie View A&M, though specific details are often shielded by federal privacy laws. What we know from representing Texas families is that the patterns mirror national trends: forced physical exertion, sleep deprivation, and psychological abuse masked as “discipline” or “character building.”

How a PVAMU Hazing Case Proceeds:

Jurisdiction: Waller County courts, Texas A&M System administration
Potential Defendants: Individual students, chapter officers, national NPHC organizations, university officials
Unique Factors: Historical context of Black Greek life traditions, sometimes complicating efforts to distinguish cultural practice from abuse

What PVAMU Students & Parents Should Do:

Report immediately to PVAMU Dean of Students and campus police
Document everything before NPHC national organizations conduct internal investigations
Understand the dual tracks: University discipline and possible criminal charges
Seek experienced counsel familiar with both Texas law and NPHC organizational structures

University of Houston: The Flagship Case in Our Backyard

The Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi Case – What Every Texas Family Needs to Know

Right now, we are actively litigating one of Texas’s most severe hazing cases, demonstrating exactly what Prairie View families might face. In late 2025, University of Houston transfer student Leonel Bermudez suffered catastrophic injuries during his Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu pledge period:

The Hazing Conduct:

“Pledge fanny pack” rule: Forced to carry condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices, and humiliating items 24/7
Extreme physical abuse: Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, “save-your-brother” drills in cold weather
Forced consumption rituals: Made to drink milk, eat hot dogs and peppercorns until vomiting, then immediate sprints
Simulated waterboarding: Sprayed in face with hose “similar to waterboarding” with threats of actual waterboarding
The November 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats
Other pledge abuse: Another pledge hog-tied face-down on table with object in mouth for over an hour

The Medical Catastrophe:
Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure. He passed brown urine, couldn’t stand without help, and was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels confirming permanent kidney damage risk.

Institutional Response:

Nov 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters suspended Beta Nu chapter
Nov 14, 2025: Chapter members voted to surrender charter, chapter shut down
UH statement: Called conduct “deeply disturbing,” promised disciplinary measures up to expulsion and cooperation with law enforcement

Defendants in Our Lawsuit:
University of Houston, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, Beta Nu housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders including chapter president, pledgemaster, and risk manager.

Why This Case Matters for Prairie View Families:

It’s happening now in Texas – not a historical case from another state
Shows medical severity – hazing can cause permanent organ damage
Demonstrates institutional patterns – multiple locations (chapter house, Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Boulevard Park)
Proves cover-up culture – delayed reporting, destruction of evidence attempts
Establishes legal precedent – our active litigation shows what’s possible in Texas courts

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

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
The Corps of Cadets tradition creates unique hazing risks alongside substantial Greek life. The combination of military-style discipline and fraternity bonding rituals can escalate into dangerous physical and psychological abuse.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):
Two pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. They sued for $1 million, and the chapter received a two-year suspension.

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023):
A cadet alleged degrading hazing including being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” position with an apple in his mouth during a “welcome” ritual. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, demonstrating that even military-style programs aren’t immune.

What College Station Families Should Know:

Dual reporting paths: Corps leadership and university administration often operate separately
Tradition defense: “This is how it’s always been” carries particular weight in Corps culture
Physical injury patterns: Extreme calisthenics, exposure elements, and restraint are common
Whistleblower stigma: Reporting peers violates “brotherhood” ethos in both Corps and Greek life

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Persistent Problems

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
UT Austin’s public hazing violations database provides unprecedented transparency while revealing ongoing issues across Greek, spirit, and athletic organizations.

Public Hazing Violations (Sample):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter probation
Texas Wranglers: Multiple sanctions for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing
Various fraternities: Repeated violations showing pattern of policy evasion

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (2024):
An Australian exchange student alleged assault at an SAE party resulting in dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose—filing a $1 million lawsuit against a chapter already under suspension for prior violations.

UT’s Comparative Advantage:
The public violations database provides families with:

Prior pattern evidence for lawsuits
Notice to university arguments when violations repeat
Deterrence through transparency (though limited)

Southern Methodist University and Baylor University: Private School Challenges

SMU’s Greek-Centric Culture:
As a private university with affluent student population and strong Greek presence, SMU faces particular challenges with off-campus hazing at expensive homes and remote properties.

Baylor’s Historical Context:
Following previous athletic scandals, Baylor maintains heightened sensitivity to misconduct allegations while navigating its religious identity—creating both opportunities and complexities for hazing reporting and response.

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories Meet Texas Chapters

Prairie View families need to understand that local chapters don’t operate in isolation. They’re part of national organizations with documented hazing patterns that create legal liability.

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: Public Records Reality

Through our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we maintain detailed records of Greek organizations operating in Texas. Here’s what Prairie View families should know:

IRS B83 Registered Texas Greek Organizations: 125+ entities including house corporations, alumni chapters, and honor societies with Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) and legal addresses across Texas.

Sample Texas Greek Organization Listings from Public Records:

Zeta Beta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc – EIN 237098953 – PO Box 2142, Prairie View, TX 77446 (IRS B83 filing)
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – EIN 237279532 – PO Box 2142, Prairie View, TX 77446 (Prairie View alumni chapter)
Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc – EIN 462267515 – 10601 Big Horn Trail, Frisco, TX 75035 (house corporation)
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – EIN 364091267 – 1101 Melrose Dr, Waco, TX 76710 (undergraduate chapter)
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – EIN 352335400 – 3900 University Blvd, Tyler, TX 75799 (academic honor society)
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – EIN 475370943 – 5019 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77204 (Theta Delta chapter)
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – EIN 746064445 – 1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627 (Epsilon Kappa chapter)
Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter – EIN 746084905 – 4300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc – EIN 741380362 – PO Box 470061, Fort Worth, TX 76147 (housing foundation)

Texas Universities Sending Prairie View Students:

Prairie View A&M University (Waller County – local)
University of Houston (Harris County – 1+ hour drive)
Texas A&M University (Brazos County – 1+ hour drive)
University of Texas at Austin (Travis County – 2+ hour drive)
Sam Houston State University (Walker County – 1+ hour drive)
Blinn College (Brazos County – 1+ hour drive)
Texas Southern University (Harris County – 1+ hour drive)

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro Greek Organizations: 188 total according to Cause IQ data, including:

Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (Houston alumni/house corp.)
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae Chapter
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Alpha Kappa Omega Chapter (graduate chapter)
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Beta Sigma Chapter (undergraduate chapter)

Cross-Validated National Brands in Texas:
Organizations appearing in both IRS records and metro databases include Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Gamma Rho, Kappa Alpha Psi, and Phi Kappa Phi—demonstrating how national brands maintain multiple entity types (undergrad chapters, alumni groups, housing corporations) across Texas.

Why National Histories Create Texas Liability

When a Texas chapter repeats hazing methods that caused deaths or injuries at other chapters, that pattern creates legal liability through:

1. Foreseeability:
National headquarters knew or should have known the risks based on prior incidents. For example:

Pi Kappa Alpha knew about “Big/Little” alcohol hazing risks before Stone Foltz’s death
Sigma Alpha Epsilon had multiple alcohol-related deaths before Texas A&M chemical burns case
Phi Delta Theta had documented drinking game hazards before Max Gruver’s death

2. Negligent Supervision:
Nationals collect dues, provide materials, and maintain oversight—creating duty to prevent known dangerous traditions.

3. Pattern and Practice Evidence:
Prior incidents at other chapters demonstrate organizational knowledge and inadequate response.

4. Punitive Damages Potential:
Willful disregard of known dangers can justify punishment beyond compensation in Texas courts.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Realistic Expectations

For Prairie View families facing the nightmare of hazing, understanding how cases are built provides both clarity and empowerment.

Critical Evidence Categories in Modern Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Frequently Destroyed):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, fraternity-specific apps
Social media: Instagram stories, Snapchat, TikTok videos, Facebook posts
Text messages/DMs: Planning discussions, instructions, aftermath conversations
Deleted content: Recoverable through digital forensics if acted upon quickly

Physical Evidence:

Medical records: ER reports, hospitalization notes, lab results (especially crucial for rhabdomyolysis cases like Bermudez’s)
Injury documentation: Photos from multiple angles with scale references, progression shots
Objects used: Paddles, alcohol containers, costumes, “pledge manuals”
Clothing: Unwashed items showing stains, tears, or substances

Institutional Records:

University files: Prior conduct violations, probation records, internal investigations
National fraternity records: Risk management files, incident reports, training materials
Insurance policies: Coverage details, exclusions, prior claims

Witness Testimony:

Other pledges: Often afraid but potentially cooperative with protection
Former members: May have guilt or desire to prevent future harm
Bystanders: Roommates, neighbors, venue staff
Experts: Medical professionals, toxicologists, Greek life culture specialists

Damages: What Texas Law Allows Families to Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical expenses: Past and future treatment, therapy, medications
Lost earnings: Current and future income impact, especially for permanent disabilities
Educational costs: Lost tuition, missed semesters, transfer expenses
Life care plans: For catastrophic injuries requiring lifelong support

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm):

Physical pain and suffering: From injuries, treatments, permanent limitations
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment: Inability to participate in college life, activities, relationships
Reputational harm: Social stigma, digital footprint consequences

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

Economic losses: Funeral costs, lost financial support
Non-economic losses: Grief, loss of companionship, parental suffering
Punitive damages: In cases of egregious misconduct or cover-ups

Institutional Defense Strategies and How We Counter Them

Defense 1: “The Pledge Consented”

Their argument: “They wanted to be part of the group”
Our response: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense; power imbalance and coercion invalidate “choice”

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

Their argument: “We have policies; this was individuals violating them”
Our response: Discovery of prior incidents, pattern evidence, and inadequate supervision demonstrate constructive knowledge

Defense 3: “It Happened Off-Campus – Not Our Responsibility”

Their argument: “The university doesn’t control private property”
Our response: Sponsorship, knowledge, and foreseeability create duty regardless of location (see Pi Delta Psi retreat case precedent)

Defense 4: “We Have Anti-Hazing Policies”

Their argument: “We told them not to haze”
Our response: Paper policies without meaningful enforcement constitute negligent supervision

Defense 5: “Sovereign Immunity” (Public Universities)

Their argument: “The state can’t be sued”
Our response: Exceptions for gross negligence, ministerial acts, and individual capacity lawsuits overcome immunity barriers

Insurance Coverage Complexities

Fraternity and university insurance companies employ sophisticated strategies to deny coverage:

Common Insurance Denial Tactics:

Intentional act exclusions: Claiming hazing is intentional, not negligent
Criminal act exclusions: Arguing illegal behavior isn’t covered
Lack of notice: Claiming delayed reporting violates policy terms
Additional insured disputes: Arguing certain defendants aren’t covered

Our Insurance Insider Advantage:
Mr. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney (he/him), spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how these companies:

Value and undervalue claims
Use Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) to reduce settlements
Deploy delay tactics to pressure families
Fight coverage under policy exclusions

This insider knowledge lets us anticipate and counter insurance strategies that typically overwhelm families and less-experienced attorneys.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Prairie View Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Indicators:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal academic stress
Weight changes from food/water restriction or stress eating
Chemical burns, rashes, or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning (slurred speech, vomiting, unconsciousness)

Behavioral Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-group activities
Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability, defensiveness
Constant phone monitoring for group chat messages
Financial requests for unexplained “fines” or purchases

Academic Red Flags:

Grades plummeting suddenly
Missing classes or falling asleep during instruction
Losing scholarships or academic standing

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally):

“How are things going with [organization]? Are they respecting your time for classes?”
“What kinds of activities do new members do? Anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt or been hurt yourself?”
“Do you feel like you could leave if you wanted to, or would there be consequences?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets from us or the university?”

For Students: Safety Planning and Exit Strategies

Is This Hazing? Quick Self-Assessment:

Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about activities?

If You’re in Immediate Danger:

Call 911 or campus police – you won’t get in trouble for seeking help
Get to a safe location (dorm, friend’s place, public area)
Tell someone you trust what’s happening

If You Want to Quit/De-Pledge:

Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend)
Send email/text to chapter president: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
Do NOT attend “one last meeting” – that’s when pressure and retaliation occur
If threatened, report immediately to campus police and Dean of Students

Evidence Collection While It’s Happening:

Screenshots: Group chats with timestamps and participant names visible
Voice memos: Texas is one-party consent – you can record conversations you’re part of
Photos: Injuries (multiple angles with scale), locations, objects used
Medical documentation: Go to student health or ER and say “I was hazed”
Witness information: Names and contacts of others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

MISTAKE 1: Letting Your Child Delete Messages

What happens: Defense claims evidence destruction, obstruction of justice
Solution: Preserve everything immediately – screenshots, cloud backups

MISTAKE 2: Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

What happens: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Solution: Document everything, then call an attorney before any confrontation

MISTAKE 3: Signing University “Resolution” Forms

What happens: Waive rights to sue, accept inadequate settlements
Solution: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

MISTAKE 4: Posting on Social Media

What happens: Defense attorneys screenshot everything, inconsistencies hurt credibility
Solution: Document privately, let your lawyer control public messaging

MISTAKE 5: Waiting for University Internal Process

What happens: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Solution: Preserve evidence NOW, consult lawyer immediately

MISTAKE 6: Talking to Insurance Adjusters

What happens: Recorded statements used against you, lowball settlements
Solution: “My attorney will contact you”

MISTAKE 7: Letting Your Child Go Back for “One Last Meeting”

What happens: Pressure, intimidation, statements extracted
Solution: Once considering legal action, all communication through your lawyer

Frequently Asked Questions for Texas Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity limitations but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual capacity lawsuits. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity barriers. Specific strategies depend on case facts—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas Education Code § 37.152 makes hazing a state jail felony when it 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?”
Consent is not a defense under Texas law (§ 37.155). Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t valid. This directly counters the most common fraternity defense.

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

“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 family privacy while pursuing accountability.

“What if hazing happened off-campus at a rental house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and foreseeability. Major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) prove off-campus location isn’t a defense.

“How much does a hazing lawyer cost?”
We work on contingency fee – no upfront costs, no fee unless we win. This makes justice accessible to families who couldn’t otherwise afford representation against wealthy universities and national fraternities.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Prairie View, Waller County, and surrounding communities.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

Insurance Insider Knowledge (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 Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) to reduce settlements
Deploy delay tactics to pressure families
Fight coverage under policy exclusions
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello’s Experience):
As one of the few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation, we’ve faced billion-dollar defendants with unlimited legal budgets. We’re not intimidated by national fraternities or universities. Our federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we’re equipped for Title IX claims and complex institutional cases.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Results:
We have recovered millions for families in wrongful death and severe injury cases, working with economists to value lifetime care needs and future earning capacity losses. We don’t settle cheap—we build cases that force real accountability.

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise:
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand both sides of hazing cases. We can advise witnesses and former members with criminal exposure while pursuing civil accountability.

Investigative Depth and Expert Network:
We deploy medical experts, digital forensics specialists, Greek life culture experts, economists, and psychologists to build comprehensive cases. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

Spanish-Language Services:
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish—servicing Texas Hispanic families with cultural understanding and clear communication. Se habla Español.

Our Active Litigation: The Leonel Bermudez UH Pi Kappa Phi Case

Right now, we’re fighting what may become a landmark Texas hazing case. The details matter because they show what’s possible:

$10 Million Lawsuit: Representing Leonel Bermudez against University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi national, housing corporation, and 13 individual members

Medical Catastrophe: Rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure from forced physical hazing—documented with hospital records and lab results

Institutional Accountability: Suing not just individuals but the systems that enabled them: university oversight failures, national supervision gaps, housing corporation responsibilities

Media Documentation: Covered by Click2Houston, ABC13, and Hoodline—bringing public accountability to what organizations prefer to keep secret

This isn’t historical precedent from another state. This is active Texas litigation showing what determined legal representation can achieve.

Your Next Steps: Confidential Consultation for Prairie View Families

If hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Whether your student attends Prairie View A&M University here in our community or any Texas campus, we’re here to help.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

We Listen Without Judgment: Tell us what happened in complete confidence
Evidence Review: We’ll examine any photos, texts, medical records, or documentation you have
Legal Options Explained: Criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither—we explain all pathways
Realistic Expectations: Timelines, challenges, potential outcomes based on similar cases
Cost Transparency: Contingency fee explanation—no fee unless we win
No Pressure: Take time to decide—we’re here when you’re ready

Clear Contact Information

Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Spanish Services: Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com

Serving All Texas Communities

From our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices, we serve families throughout Texas including:

Prairie View and Waller County families with students at PVAMU
Greater Houston area families connected to UH, TSU, and other institutions
Central Texas families with students at UT Austin, Texas State
College Station/Bryan families dealing with Texas A&M and Corps issues
Dallas/Fort Worth families connected to SMU, TCU, UNT
Waco families with Baylor University students

Final Message to Prairie View Families

Hazing thrives in silence and shame. It depends on victims blaming themselves and families accepting institutional excuses. But Texas law provides tools for accountability, and experienced legal representation can level the playing field against even the wealthiest universities and national organizations.

The cases we’ve highlighted—from national tragedies to our active UH litigation—prove that change happens when families refuse to be silenced. Your case matters not just for your family’s healing, but for preventing the next injury, the next hospitalization, the next death.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let us help you turn this nightmare into accountability, compensation, and prevention for other Texas families.

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 Leonel Bermudez UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Using Cellphone to Document Evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas Statutes of Limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client Mistakes That Ruin Cases: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How Contingency Fees Work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

https://attorney911.com