The Complete Guide to Hazing Laws, Cases, and Accountability for Electra, Texas Families

1. Hook + Overview: A Parent’s Worst Nightmare in the North Texas Night

Imagine this scenario, one that could unfold at any Texas university where our community sends its children. A student from Electra, eager to belong, attends an off-campus fraternity house near their university. What begins as a “pledge night” escalates into something darker. They’re pressured to finish an entire bottle of liquor while seniors cheer them on. Hours later, when they collapse, there’s panic—but instead of calling 911 immediately, members debate consequences, worried about “getting the chapter in trouble.” Precious minutes tick by. This isn’t just fiction; it’s the exact pattern that has killed students across the country, including right here in Texas.

If you’re a parent in Electra, Wichita Falls, Burkburnett, Iowa Park, Vernon, or anywhere across North Texas, this guide is for you. Your children often attend schools like Midwestern State University right here in Wichita Falls, or venture to major campuses like Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Houston, Texas Tech University, or Baylor University. Wherever they go, the risk of hazing exists—and the consequences can be catastrophic.

Right now, in a case that hits close to home for all Texans, our firm is fighting one of the most serious hazing lawsuits in the country. We represent Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and 13 individual fraternity leaders. According to detailed media reports from Click2Houston and ABC13, Bermudez suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after enduring forced physical hazing, humiliating “pledge fanny pack” rules, and being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding.” He was hospitalized for four days and faces ongoing medical risks. This active litigation proves that severe hazing happens at Texas universities, and families have legal recourse.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly what hazing looks like in 2025, Texas and federal laws that protect students, national case patterns that repeat at Texas schools, and what your family can do if faced with this crisis. We serve families across Texas, including right here in Electra and throughout Wichita County.

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

2. Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like in Texas Universities

2.1 The Modern Definition: Beyond “Boys Will Be Boys”

Hazing in 2025 isn’t just about silly pranks or harmless traditions. Under Texas law, hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that endangers their mental or physical health for purposes of joining or maintaining membership in any organization. Crucially, “I agreed to it” is not a defense in Texas—the law recognizes that power imbalances, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion undermine true consent.

2.2 Main Categories of Hazing Affecting Texas Students

Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common and deadly form. It includes forced chugging competitions, “Big/Little” nights with handles of liquor, drinking games like “Bible study” where wrong answers mean consuming alcohol, and pressure to consume unknown substances. This is what killed Stone Foltz at Bowling Green, Max Gruver at LSU, and nearly killed Leonel Bermudez at UH.

Physical Hazing
From the Pi Kappa Phi case at UH, we saw extreme workouts (100+ push-ups, 500 squats), bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, and cold-weather exposure. Other Texas cases have involved paddling, beatings, “smokings” (excessive calisthenics), sleep deprivation, and food/water restriction.

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
This includes forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (“elephant walk,” “roasted pig” positions), degrading costumes, and acts with racial or sexist overtones. The Texas A&M Corps “roasted pig” case involved cadets being bound between beds with apples in their mouths.

Psychological Hazing
Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members, manipulation, forced confessions, and public shaming in meetings or on social media create lasting trauma.

Digital/Online Hazing
The 2025 evolution: group chat dares on GroupMe or Discord, “challenges” shared on Instagram or TikTok, pressure to create compromising content, and 24/7 availability demands via text. This creates a constant, inescapable environment of control.

2.3 Where Hazing Happens: Not Just Fraternities

While Greek organizations see high-profile cases, hazing occurs across campus life:

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC at Texas A&M and other military-style programs
• Athletic Teams from football to cheerleading
• Spirit Groups and Tradition Clubs like Texas Cowboys, Silver Spurs
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups
• Some Academic, Service, and Cultural Organizations

The common thread is power imbalance, tradition justification, and secrecy. Organizations often frame hazing as “bonding” or “proving commitment” while knowing it violates university policies and state law.

3. Law & Liability Framework: Texas Statutes and Federal Overlay

3.1 Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code Chapter 37)

For Electra families, Texas law provides clear protections and penalties:

§ 37.151 Definition: Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers mental or physical health for purposes of initiation into or affiliation with any organization.

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

• Class B Misdemeanor: 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

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability: Organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation and face university ban.

§ 37.155 Critical Protection: Consent is not a defense. Even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing under Texas law.

§ 37.154 Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting: Those who report hazing to authorities in good faith are protected from liability.

3.2 Criminal vs Civil Cases: Two Paths to Accountability

Criminal Cases:

• Brought by the state (district attorney)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Example: Multiple Pi Kappa Phi members could face criminal charges in the UH case

Civil Cases:

• Brought by victims or surviving families
• Aim: Compensation and institutional accountability
• Legal theories: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
• Crucial: A criminal conviction is NOT required to pursue a civil case

Both can proceed simultaneously, as we’re seeing in the UH Pi Kappa Phi litigation.

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

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

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

Clery Act: Requires reporting of certain crimes and maintenance of safety statistics; hazing incidents often overlap with assault or alcohol crime reporting requirements.

3.4 Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students: Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up.

Local Chapter/Organization: The fraternity/sorority or club itself as a legal entity; officers and “pledge educators” bear particular responsibility.

National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters: Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters. Their knowledge of prior incidents creates “foreseeability.”

University or Governing Board: Schools may be liable for negligent supervision, deliberate indifference to known risks, or premises liability.

Third Parties: Landlords of event spaces, bars or alcohol providers (under dram shop laws), security companies.

In the UH case, we’ve sued all these categories: 13 individual members, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, the chapter housing corporation, UH, and the UH System Board of Regents.

4. National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

4.1 Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Bid-acceptance event with forced drinking, severe falls captured on chapter cameras, delayed medical help. Result: Dozens of criminal charges, civil litigation, Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017): “Bible study” drinking game, forced consumption, death from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%). Result: Criminal convictions, Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute).

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Pledge forced to consume entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night. Result: $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU), criminal convictions.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Big/little event, handle of liquor, alcohol poisoning death. Result: FSU suspended all Greek life temporarily, criminal hazing charges.

4.2 Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Blindfolded, weighted “glass ceiling” ritual during retreat, fatal head injuries, delayed help. Result: National fraternity criminally convicted, banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years, individual jail sentences.

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021): “Pledge dad reveal” night with forced drinking, permanent severe brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care). Result: Settlements with 22 defendants, chapter closed.

4.3 Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing within football program. Result: Multiple lawsuits, head coach fired and settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially, program overhaul.

4.4 What These Cases Mean for Electra Families

These national patterns repeat at Texas schools because the same national organizations operate here. The foreseeability established by prior incidents strengthens civil cases. When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous “traditions” that killed students elsewhere, national headquarters cannot claim ignorance.

5. Texas Focus: Universities Relevant to Electra Families

5.1 Local Connection: Midwestern State University (Wichita Falls)

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Just minutes from Electra in Wichita Falls, Midwestern State University serves many local students. With active Greek life including fraternities and sororities, student organizations, and athletic programs, hazing risks exist here as they do at larger campuses.

5.1.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

MSU prohibits hazing as defined by Texas law and provides reporting through the Dean of Students, Student Conduct office, and campus police. Like all Texas public universities, MSU must comply with Chapter 37 reporting requirements.

5.1.3 How an MSU Hazing Case Might Proceed

Jurisdiction would involve Wichita County courts, with potential defendants including individual students, local chapters, national organizations, and the university. Evidence collection would follow the same patterns as larger cases.

5.1.4 What MSU Students & Parents Should Do

• Report immediately to MSU Dean of Students and campus police
• Document everything before evidence disappears
• Seek medical attention at United Regional Health Care System or local hospital
• Contact experienced Texas hazing counsel who understands Wichita County jurisdiction

5.2 Texas A&M University (Common Destination for North Texas Students)

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Many Electra-area students attend Texas A&M, drawn by its academic programs and traditions. The Corps of Cadets and active Greek life (over 60 fraternities/sororities) create environments where hazing risks intersect with tradition.

5.2.2 Documented Incidents & Responses

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (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 for two years.

Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth. Sought over $1 million; A&M stated it handled matter under its rules.

5.2.3 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

Jurisdiction could involve Brazos County courts or federal court. Potential defendants include individual students, chapters, nationals, the university, and property owners. The Corps’ military-style structure adds complexity.

5.2.4 What Texas A&M Families Should Do

• Report to A&M Student Conduct Office and Corps leadership if applicable
• Preserve evidence immediately (College Station police may be involved)
• Understand that tradition arguments don’t override Texas law
• Seek counsel experienced with both Greek life and military-style hazing

5.3 University of Texas at Austin

5.3.1 Transparency Leader: Public Hazing Violations Page

UT maintains a public Hazing Violations page listing organizations, conduct, and sanctions—a transparency model other schools should follow.

5.3.2 Documented Incidents

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

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted at party, suffering dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose. Student sued for over $1 million; chapter already under suspension for prior violations.

5.3.3 How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed

Travis County courts would handle civil cases. UT’s public violation records provide powerful pattern evidence showing prior knowledge. Austin PD and UTPD jurisdiction depends on location.

5.4 University of Houston (Site of Active $10M Litigation)

5.4.1 The Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi Case: Texas’s Current Flagship Hazing Litigation

We are actively litigating this $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit in Harris County. Key details every Texas family should know:

Hazing Conduct:

• “Pledge fanny pack” rule with condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices, humiliating items
• Enforced dress codes, hours-long “study/work” blocks, overnight chauffeuring duties
• Extreme physical hazing: sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, cold-weather exposure
• Being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting, then repeated sprints
• The Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion
• Another pledge hog-tied face-down on a table with object in mouth for over hour

Medical Catastrophe:

• Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure
• Passed brown urine, could not stand without help
• Hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels
• Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage

Defendants:

• University of Houston
• UH System Board of Regents
• Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
• Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu housing corporation
• 13 individual fraternity leaders/members

Institutional Response:

• Nov 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspends Beta Nu chapter
• Nov 14, 2025: Chapter members vote to surrender their charter; chapter shut down
• UH labels conduct “deeply disturbing”, promises disciplinary measures up to expulsion and cooperation with law enforcement

5.4.2 How the UH Case Proceeds

Harris County courts are handling this complex litigation against multiple institutional defendants. The case demonstrates how experienced hazing attorneys investigate across entities: chapter, housing corporation, national headquarters, university.

5.5 Baylor University

5.5.1 Campus Context

Baylor’s religious identity and history of scrutiny over football and Title IX issues create a complex environment for hazing accountability.

5.5.2 Documented Incident

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation; staggered suspensions over early season.

5.5.3 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

As a private university, Baylor has fewer sovereign immunity protections than public schools. McLennan County courts would handle cases. Baylor’s prior scandals create pattern evidence regarding institutional response.

6. Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

6.1 Why National Histories Matter for Electra Families

When your child is hazed by a chapter at their Texas university, that chapter is almost always part of a national organization with a documented history across the country. This matters because:

Foreseeability: If Pi Kappa Alpha had a fatal hazing at Bowling Green in 2021 (Stone Foltz), then another chapter forcing dangerous drinking creates foreseeable risk.

Pattern Evidence: Courts consider whether nationals meaningfully enforced policies after prior incidents. Superficial “probation” without real change shows negligence.

Insurance Coverage: National organizations typically carry insurance, and their prior knowledge affects coverage disputes.

6.2 Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: The Data Behind Accountability

Our firm maintains a Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine built from public records tracking over 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros. This isn’t theoretical—it’s the investigative backbone we use for cases like Bermudez’s. Here’s what this means for Electra families:

Public Records Directory: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Serving North Texas Families

Wichita Falls Metro Area Organizations (From IRS B83 & Cause IQ Data):

• Gamma Iota Chapter of Gamma Phi Beta Sorority Inc, EIN 751225585, 3410 Taft Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308 (IRS B83 filing)
• Redwine Honors Program Student Council, EIN 845090974, 3410 Taft Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308 (IRS B83 filing)
• Delta Kappa Gamma Society – Theta Upsilon Chapter, Wichita Falls, TX (Cause IQ metro listing – educators’ society)
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Wichita Falls Alumnae Chapter, Wichita Falls, TX (Cause IQ metro listing – graduate chapter)
• Sigma Kappa Sorority – Gamma Phi Chapter Association, Wichita Falls, TX (Cause IQ metro listing – Midwestern State University)
• Tau Kappa Epsilon – MSU Texas Chapter, Wichita Falls, TX (Cause IQ metro listing – Midwestern State University)

Major Texas University Greek Organizations (Where Electra Students Attend):

Texas A&M University Entities:

• Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc, EIN 133048786, 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 filing)
• Gentlemen of Aggie Tradition, EIN 880537463, 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S Ste 100, College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 filing)
• Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – Theta Rho Chapter, EIN 812525354, 3989 N Graham Rd, College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 filing)
• Texas Nu-Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, EIN 814123811, 1016 Fairview Ave, College Station, TX 77840 (IRS B83 filing)

University of Texas at Austin Entities:

• Chi Omega Fraternity – House Corporation, EIN 740555581, 2711 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705 (IRS B83 filing)
• Building Corporation of Delta Chapter of Alpha Delta Pi, EIN 746047117, 2620 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705 (IRS B83 filing)
• Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity Inc – Alpha Mu Chapter, EIN 741130606, 1908 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705 (IRS B83 filing)

University of Houston Area Entities:

• Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter, EIN 746084905, 4300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204 (IRS B83 filing)
• Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – Theta Delta Chapter, EIN 475370943, 5019 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77204 (IRS B83 filing)
• Beta Lambda Chapter – Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc, EIN 990483761, 18054 Brooknoll Dr, Houston, TX 77084 (IRS B83 filing)
• Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation, EIN 371768785, 4102 Eastshore St, Missouri City, TX 77459 (IRS B83 filing – housing corporation)

Texas-Wide Snapshot:

• 125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations in IRS B83 database
• 96 Texas university campuses in our tracking system
• 1,423 total Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros per Cause IQ data
• 36 cross-validated brands appearing in both IRS and Cause IQ data

This directory demonstrates what serious hazing litigation requires: knowing exactly who stands behind the letters, where they’re incorporated, what insurance they might have, and how to trace liability from local chapter to national headquarters to housing corporation.

6.3 National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories at Texas Schools

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ): Stone Foltz death (BGSU, 2021), David Bogenberger death (NIU, 2012). Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor. Pattern: Big/Little alcohol hazing.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ): Carson Starkey death (Cal Poly, 2008), traumatic brain injury case (Alabama, 2023), chemical burns case (Texas A&M, 2021). Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU. Pattern: Physical abuse and forced drinking.

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Andrew Coffey death (FSU, 2017), Leonel Bermudez rhabdomyolysis case (UH, 2025). Present at UH, Texas A&M. Pattern: Extreme physical hazing and alcohol coercion.

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Max Gruver death (LSU, 2017). Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor. Pattern: “Bible study” drinking games.

Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Timothy Piazza death (Penn State, 2017). Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor. Pattern: Bid acceptance drinking events with delayed medical help.

These patterns matter because when the same behavior repeats at a Texas chapter, the national organization cannot claim “we didn’t know this could happen.” Their prior incident responses—or lack thereof—become evidence of negligent supervision.

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

7.1 Evidence That Wins Hazing Cases

Digital Communications (Most Critical):

• GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord group chats showing planning, coordination, boasts, or cover-up attempts
• Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments documenting events or injuries
• Fraternity-specific apps with member communications
• Recovered deleted messages via digital forensics

Photos & Videos:

• Content filmed by members during events (often shared in group chats)
• Security camera or doorbell footage at houses and venues
• Social media posts/stories capturing hazing activities

Internal Organization Documents:

• Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
• Emails/texts from officers about activities
• National policies, training materials, risk management guides

University Records:

• Prior conduct files, probation/suspension letters
• Incident reports to campus police or conduct offices
• Clery Act reports and hazing disclosures

Medical & Psychological Records:

• Emergency room and hospitalization records
• Toxicology reports, lab results (like Bermudez’s creatine kinase levels)
• Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses)
• Ongoing treatment notes documenting long-term effects

Witness Testimony:

• Other pledges, members, roommates, RAs
• Former members who quit or were expelled
• Bystanders, venue staff, neighbors

7.2 Damages in Hazing Cases: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical bills: ER, hospitalization, surgery, therapy, medications
• Future medical expenses: Ongoing treatment, life care plans for catastrophic injuries
• Lost income & earning capacity: Missed work/school, reduced future earnings due to disability
• Educational impact: Tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships, delayed graduation

Non-Economic Damages:

• Physical pain and suffering from injuries
• Emotional distress, trauma, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment of life (can’t participate in activities they loved)
• Reputational harm if incident was publicized

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
• Grief and emotional suffering of family members

Punitive Damages (When Available):

• To punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
• To deter future hazing
• Available when defendants showed callous indifference to known risks

7.3 The Insurance Coverage Battle: Why Experience Matters

Fraternity and university insurance companies use sophisticated tactics to deny or minimize claims:

Common Insurance Arguments:

• “Hazing is an intentional act excluded from coverage”
• “The national organization didn’t know about local chapter activities”
• “The university has sovereign immunity protection”

How We Counter These Arguments:

• Argue negligent supervision (failure to prevent foreseeable harm) is covered even if hazing was intentional
• Use pattern evidence to show nationals knew or should have known about risks
• Navigate sovereign immunity exceptions for gross negligence or willful misconduct
• Identify all potential policies: chapter, national, university, individual homeowner’s

Our advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how insurers value claims, use IMEs (Independent Medical Exams) to reduce settlements, and deploy delay tactics. We use their playbook against them.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs for Electra Families

8.1 For Parents: Warning Signs & Immediate Response

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

• Unexplained injuries, bruises, burns, or cuts with inconsistent explanations
• Extreme fatigue, exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Sudden secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
• Withdrawal from family, old friends, non-member activities
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring, anxiety when phone buzzes
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability, anger
• Financial red flags: unexpected large expenses, requests for money without clear explanation
• Academic decline: dropping grades, missing classes, falling asleep in class

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing (Non-Confrontationally):

1. “How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
2. “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
3. “What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
4. “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
5. “Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
6. “Do you feel like you can leave if you want to, or would there be consequences?”

48-Hour Action Checklist for Parents:

• Hour 1–6: Get medical attention if injured/intoxicated, screenshot any messages shown, photograph injuries, write down everything told to you
• Hour 6–24: Help child preserve ALL digital evidence (don’t delete anything), secure physical evidence (clothing, objects), request medical records
• Hour 24–48: Consult experienced hazing attorney, decide on reporting strategy, avoid communication with insurance/university without counsel
• Week 1: Continue medical documentation, begin evidence gathering with attorney, protect against retaliation

8.2 For Students: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide:

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

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

How to Exit Safely:

• Immediate danger: Call 911, get to safe location
• Want to quit: Send email/text to chapter president: “I am resigning my pledge/membership effective immediately”
• Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
• Document any threats or harassment (screenshots, recordings if legal in Texas)
• Report retaliation to Dean of Students and campus police

Evidence Collection for Students:

1. Screenshots of group chats with timestamps and participant names visible
2. Voice memos/recordings (Texas is one-party consent state)
3. Photos/videos of injuries, locations, objects used
4. Save everything digital – back up to cloud or email to trusted adult
5. Medical documentation – tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
6. Witness information – names/contacts of others who saw what happened

8.3 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

MISTAKE #1: Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

• Why wrong: Looks like cover-up, can be obstruction of justice, makes case nearly impossible
• Right approach: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly

• Why wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• Right approach: Document everything, call lawyer before any confrontation

MISTAKE #3: Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms

• Why wrong: May waive right to sue; settlements often far below case value
• Right approach: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

MISTAKE #4: Posting details on social media before talking to lawyer

• Why wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
• Right approach: Document privately; let lawyer control public messaging

MISTAKE #5: Waiting “to see how the university handles it”

• Why wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute of limitations runs
• Right approach: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

8.4 Short FAQ for Electra Families

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT, MSU) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law makes hazing a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. The UH Pi Kappa Phi case involves potential felony charges given the rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

“Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

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

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

“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We prioritize family privacy while pursuing accountability, requesting sealed court records when possible.

9. About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action for Electra Families

9.1 Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases: Our North Texas Connection

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Electra, Wichita Falls, and across North Texas. 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.

Our Competitive Advantages for Hazing Cases:

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña):
As a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm, Mr. Peña knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims. He understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies. We know their playbook because we used to run it.

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello):
One of the few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation, Mr. Manginello has faced billion-dollar defendants before. His federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) and HCCLA membership signal we’re not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams.

Active Texas Hazing Litigation Experience:
Right now, we’re leading the Leonel Bermudez $10 million hazing lawsuit against University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi. This isn’t historical—it’s active litigation demonstrating our current capability in complex hazing cases.

Investigative Depth with Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine:
Our proprietary database tracks over 1,423 Greek organizations across Texas. We know how to trace liability from local chapter to housing corporation to national headquarters—exactly what we’re doing in the UH case.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results:
We’ve recovered millions in complex wrongful death cases, working with economists to value lifetime care needs for brain injury and permanent disability cases.

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise:
Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation, crucial for advising witnesses and former members.

Spanish-Language Services:
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish, serving Hispanic families across Texas who face language barriers when dealing with universities and legal systems.

9.2 Call to Action: Your Next Step as an Electra Family

If you or your child has experienced hazing at Midwestern State University, Texas A&M, UT Austin, University of Houston, Texas Tech, Baylor, or any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Electra, Wichita Falls, Burkburnett, Iowa Park, and throughout North Texas have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation:

What to expect in your free consultation:

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

Contact Information:

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

Spanish Services:

• Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish
• Servicios legales en español disponibles

Whether you’re in Electra or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The universities and national organizations have experienced lawyers. So should you.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

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 Hazing Lawsuit:

• Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
• ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
• Hoodline summary of the $10M UH hazing lawsuit: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos:

• Using your cellphone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
• Statute of limitations on your case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• Client mistakes that can ruin your injury case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
• How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website & Contact:

• 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/