Hazing, Fraternity Abuse & Campus Injury Lawsuits in Texas: A Complete Guide for Quitman Families

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

For parents in Quitman and across Wood County, the college experience represents hope, opportunity, and pride. Many Quitman families send their children to Texas A&M University-Commerce just minutes away, or to other regional universities like the University of Texas at Tyler in Smith County. Others see their students head to major statewide hubs like Texas A&M in College Station, the University of Houston, UT Austin, Baylor in Waco, or SMU in Dallas. Wherever your child attends in Texas, you trust they’ll be safe, supervised, and protected from harm.

But right now, across our state, a disturbing reality exists behind some campus traditions. What starts as “pledging” or “team bonding” can escalate into systematic abuse that leaves students hospitalized, traumatized, or worse. As we’re almost in 2026, these dangerous practices haven’t disappeared—they’ve evolved and, in some cases, become more hidden.

Consider this scenario: A student from Wood County accepts a bid from a fraternity at a Texas university. What begins as seemingly harmless tradition—carrying a “pledge fanny pack,” attending late-night meetings—spirals into forced consumption of dangerous amounts of food and alcohol, extreme physical workouts beyond human limits, psychological torment, and sleep deprivation. When the student collapses, passing brown urine from muscle breakdown, the response isn’t immediate medical care but concern about “getting the chapter in trouble.” The student ends up hospitalized for days with acute kidney failure, facing potential lifelong health consequences. His family in Quitman is left questioning everything they thought they knew about campus safety.

This isn’t hypothetical. It’s exactly what happened to Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter in fall 2025—one of the most serious hazing cases currently being litigated in Texas. And it’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide for Quitman families: to give you the knowledge, resources, and legal understanding you need if hazing touches your child’s life.

What This Guide Covers for Quitman Families

This is Texas’s most complete resource on hazing law, university accountability, and victim rights, written specifically for families in Quitman, Mineola, Alba, Winnsboro, and across Wood County and East Texas. We’ll explain:

• What modern hazing actually looks like in 2025—beyond the stereotypes
• Texas hazing laws that protect your child, even if they “agreed” to participate
• How major national hazing cases create legal precedents that benefit Texas families
• What’s happening at universities where Quitman students attend: Texas A&M-Commerce, UT Tyler, Texas A&M University, University of Houston, UT Austin, Baylor, SMU, and others
• How fraternity and sorority national histories affect local chapter liability
• The evidence that wins hazing cases and how to preserve it immediately
• Practical steps for parents, students, and witnesses
• Why The Manginello Law Firm (Attorney911) is uniquely positioned to handle Texas hazing cases

If you’re reading this because you suspect or know your child has been hazed, start with this immediate action plan. Then continue through this guide to understand your family’s rights and options.

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 Today

Many Quitman parents remember hazing as physical paddling or silly pranks. Today’s hazing has evolved into sophisticated, psychologically damaging systems of control that often fly under university radars until someone gets seriously hurt.

The Modern Definition of Hazing

Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior:

• Endangers physical or mental health
• Humiliates, degrades, or exploits
• Occurs within a power imbalance where refusal carries social or practical consequences

Critically, “I agreed to it” does not make it safe or legal when there’s peer pressure and power imbalance. Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing charges.

Main Categories of Hazing Today

Alcohol and Substance Hazing
For Quitman families whose students may be under 21, this is particularly dangerous:

• Forced or coerced drinking games (“lineups,” “century clubs,” “family tree” drinking)
• Pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances
• “Big/Little” nights where pledges are given handles of liquor
• The “brown urine” scenario: extreme physical exertion combined with forced consumption leading to rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) and kidney failure

Physical Hazing

• Paddling, beatings, or “swats” with various objects
• Extreme calisthenics (“smokings”)—100+ push-ups, 500+ squats, bear crawls until collapse
• Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions” or 3 AM wake-up calls
• Food/water deprivation or forced consumption of disgusting combinations
• Exposure to extreme cold/heat without proper protection

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions, degrading costumes
• Acts with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones
• Public shaming on social media or in group meetings

Psychological Hazing

• Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
• Manipulation through fear of exclusion
• Forced confessions or betrayal of friends

Digital/Online Hazing

• Group chat dares and “challenges” (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord)
• Pressure to create compromising TikTok or Instagram content
• 24/7 availability demands with immediate response requirements
• Location tracking via Find My Friends or Life360

Where Hazing Happens Beyond Stereotypes

While fraternities and sororities receive most attention, hazing occurs in:

• Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs (particularly relevant for Texas A&M families)
• Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer, swimming)
• Spirit squads and tradition groups
• Marching bands and performance groups
• Some academic, service, and cultural organizations

The common thread is social status, tradition, and secrecy—elements that keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law: What Quitman Families Need to Know

Texas has some of the nation’s clearest hazing statutes, but they’re only effective if families understand and enforce them.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hazing Statute

Texas law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership that:

• Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student

Key provisions that protect Quitman students:

§ 37.155: Consent Is NOT a Defense
It is not a defense to prosecution that the person being hazed consented to the activity. This directly counters the “they agreed to it” argument.

§ 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

§ 37.154: Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting
A person who in good faith reports hazing to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability. Many universities extend this to alcohol/drug amnesty in medical emergencies.

§ 37.153: Organizational Liability
Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation and face university expulsion.

Criminal vs Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases

• Brought by the state (district attorney)
• Aim: punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Common charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Standard: “beyond a reasonable doubt”

Civil Cases

• Brought by victims or surviving families
• Aim: compensation and accountability
• Common claims: negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
• Standard: “preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not)

Both can proceed simultaneously, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. In fact, many families achieve meaningful accountability and compensation through civil litigation even when criminal charges aren’t filed.

Federal Laws That Protect Texas Students

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
Requires colleges receiving federal aid to:

• Report hazing incidents transparently
• Strengthen hazing education and prevention
• Maintain public hazing data (phased in by 2026)

Title IX
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered, creating additional liability for universities.

Clery Act
Requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics; hazing incidents often overlap with assault, alcohol, and drug crimes that must be reported.

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students
Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover them up. In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, 13 individual fraternity leaders were named alongside the organizations.

Local Chapter/Organization
The fraternity/sorority or club itself, especially if it’s a legal entity with insurance.

National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters
Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters. Liability often hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents.

Universities and Governing Boards
Schools may be liable under negligence or civil-rights theories when they had prior warnings, failed to enforce policies, or showed deliberate indifference.

Third Parties

• Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces
• Bars or alcohol providers (under dram shop laws)
• Security companies or event organizers

Every case is fact-specific, but experienced hazing attorneys know how to identify all potentially liable parties to maximize accountability and compensation.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Can Learn

The tragedies that have unfolded on campuses nationwide create legal precedents and patterns that directly benefit Texas families pursuing justice.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
During a bid-acceptance event, Piazza consumed dangerous amounts of alcohol, suffered multiple falls captured on chapter cameras, and received delayed medical help. The case resulted in dozens of criminal charges, major civil settlements, and Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. Takeaway for Quitman families: Extreme intoxication combined with delayed 911 calls creates devastating liability.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
At a “Big Brother” event, Coffey was given a handle of liquor and died from alcohol poisoning. The case led to FSU temporarily suspending all Greek life. Takeaway: Formulaic drinking “traditions” are predictable and preventable.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
During a “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant drinking, Gruver died with a 0.495% BAC. Louisiana responded with the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony. Takeaway: Legislative change follows public outrage and clear evidence.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
Foltz was forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during a pledge event. The family reached a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU). Takeaway: Universities face significant financial consequences alongside fraternities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
At a fraternity retreat, Deng was blindfolded, weighted with a backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a “glass ceiling” ritual. He died from traumatic brain injuries after delayed medical care. The national fraternity was criminally convicted and banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. Takeaway for East Texas families: Off-campus retreats can be as dangerous as parties, and national organizations face severe sanctions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the football program. Multiple lawsuits led to coach firings and confidential settlements. Takeaway: Hazing extends far beyond Greek life into big-money athletic programs.

Texas A&M Corps of Cadets Cases
Multiple lawsuits have alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and binding. These cases show that even highly structured, tradition-heavy programs aren’t immune.

What These Cases Mean for Quitman Families

The patterns are clear: forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, and cover-ups. The legal responses are equally clear: multi-million-dollar settlements, criminal convictions, organizational bans, and new laws. Texas families facing hazing at our universities are operating in a landscape shaped by these national lessons—and these precedents strengthen our ability to hold institutions accountable.

Texas Universities: Where Quitman Students Attend and What They Face

Quitman families send students to universities across Texas. Understanding each campus’s hazing landscape is crucial for prevention and accountability.

Texas A&M University-Commerce: The Local University for Wood County

Campuses: Many Quitman and Wood County students attend Texas A&M-Commerce just 30 minutes away in Hunt County.

Greek Life & Organizations: As part of the Texas A&M system, Commerce has active Greek life with fraternities and sororities that must adhere to system-wide policies.

Documented Incidents: While specific Commerce incidents may not make statewide news, the Texas A&M system has faced significant hazing cases at its flagship campus that inform system-wide policies.

Reporting Channels: Students can report through the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities, campus police, or the statewide A&M system reporting mechanisms.

What Quitman Parents Should Know: Proximity doesn’t guarantee safety. Students may feel additional pressure to participate in traditions because they’re “close to home.” Document any concerns immediately and utilize both campus and local Wood County resources if needed.

University of Texas at Tyler: The Regional University

Campuses: UT Tyler serves many East Texas families and is within driving distance for Quitman students.

Transparency Practices: As part of the UT System, Tyler should follow system-wide hazing reporting protocols being implemented across all UT campuses.

Parent Action: Familiarize yourself with both UT Tyler’s specific policies and the broader UT System hazing prevention initiatives.

Texas A&M University (College Station): The Flagship Destination

Cultural Context: Tradition-heavy campus with strong Greek life and Corps of Cadets. The “Aggie Ring” and other traditions can sometimes blur lines between meaningful ritual and harmful hazing.

Documented Cases:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit (2021): Pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts. The fraternity was suspended; lawsuits sought over $1 million.
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound in “roasted pig” position with an apple in his mouth. Sought over $1 million in damages.
• Multiple Other Sanctions: Public disciplinary records show ongoing issues with alcohol hazing, physical abuse, and policy violations.

Reporting Systems: Student Conduct Office, Corps leadership chain, anonymous reporting through established channels.

For Quitman Families with Aggies: The combination of Greek life and Corps traditions requires particular vigilance. Document any concerning changes in your student’s physical or emotional state.

University of Houston: Urban Campus with Active Greek Life

Current Major Case: The Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu case represents one of Texas’s most serious ongoing hazing litigations. In fall 2025, Bermudez suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after extreme hazing that included:

• “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation with condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting
• 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion
• Hose spraying “similar to waterboarding”
• Four-day hospitalization with critically high creatine kinase levels

The $10 million lawsuit names UH, Pi Kappa Phi national, the housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders. The chapter was suspended November 6, 2025, and members voted to surrender their charter November 14, 2025.

Historical Context: UH has faced multiple hazing incidents, including a 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha case where a pledge suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table during multi-day deprivation hazing.

Geography Matters: For Quitman families, Houston may feel distant, but Harris County courts handle these cases, and statewide legal precedents affect all Texas students.

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency Leader

Public Hazing Violations Page: UT Austin maintains one of Texas’s most transparent hazing disclosure systems at hazing.utexas.edu, listing organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions.

Recent Examples:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation with mandatory hazing-prevention education.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted at a party, suffering dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose; sued for over $1 million.
• Multiple Spirit Organizations: Texas Cowboys, Texas Wranglers, and other tradition groups have faced sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol hazing, and punishment-based practices.

Legal Advantage: UT’s transparency means prior violations are publicly documented, creating strong pattern evidence for civil cases.

For Quitman Students at UT: The publication of violations doesn’t prevent hazing but does create accountability records that can support legal action.

Southern Methodist University: Private Campus with Greek Emphasis

Cultural Context: Affluent private university with strong Greek presence and social traditions.

Documented Incidents:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, deprived of sleep; chapter suspended until approximately 2021.
• Ongoing disciplinary matters through Student Conduct processes.

Transparency Challenge: As a private institution, SMU has fewer public records requirements than public universities, making internal investigations and discovery crucial in litigation.

Baylor University: Religious Affiliation with Complex History

Context: Baylor’s recent history with football sexual assault scandals informs its current approach to misconduct reporting and accountability.

Documented Cases:

• Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation; staggered suspensions affected team performance.
• Ongoing Greek life misconduct cases through student conduct processes.

Unique Considerations: Baylor’s religious identity and previous institutional crises create both challenges and opportunities for accountability in hazing cases.

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: What We Know About Greek Organizations

Through public records analysis, we maintain detailed data on Texas’s Greek ecosystem—knowledge that directly benefits Quitman families pursuing accountability.

Texas’s Greek Organization Landscape

Statewide Scope: 1,423 fraternity and sorority organizations operate across 25 Texas metros, including:

• 510 in Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro
• 188 in Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro
• 154 in Austin-Round Rock Metro
• 86 in San Antonio Metro
• 59 in Lubbock Metro
• 42 in College Station-Bryan Metro
• 27 in Waco Metro

IRS-Registered Entities: 125+ Texas organizations are registered with the IRS under NTEE code B83 (Student Sororities, Fraternities), including house corporations, alumni chapters, and honor societies with established legal identities and often insurance coverage.

Public Records Directory: Organizations Serving Texas Students

These aren’t accusations—they’re public records showing the organizational infrastructure behind campus Greek life:

Texas A&M University System Entities:

• Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc (EIN: 133048786) – 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845 – IRS B83 filing
• Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN: 462267515) – 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035 – IRS B83 filing
• Eta Alpha House Corporation of Kappa Delta Sorority (EIN: 742930349) – 404 University Dr E Ste D, College Station, TX 77840 – IRS B83 filing

University of Houston Area Entities:

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Beta Sigma Chapter – Houston, TX – Cause IQ metro listing
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Texas District – Houston, TX – Cause IQ metro listing
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae – Houston, TX – Cause IQ metro listing

University of Texas System Entities:

• Texas Rho Housing Corporation (ΣAE) – Austin, TX – Cause IQ metro listing
• Building Corporation – Alpha Delta Pi (Delta) – Austin, TX – Cause IQ metro listing
• Beta Xi House Corp. of Kappa Kappa Gamma – Austin, TX – Cause IQ metro listing

Cross-Validated National Brands: Organizations appearing in both IRS data and Cause IQ metro data, demonstrating extensive Texas infrastructure:

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority (multiple chapters statewide)
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (multiple campus chapters)
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (multiple entities)
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity (multiple alumni chapters)

Why This Data Matters for Quitman Families

When hazing occurs, these organizations—not just individual students—often hold insurance policies, assets, and legal responsibility. Our ability to immediately identify relevant entities accelerates investigations and strengthens settlement leverage. For families in Quitman dealing with a crisis hours away, this pre-existing knowledge base means we don’t start from zero.

Fraternity & Sorority National Histories: Patterns That Create Liability

National organizations’ histories matter because they show foreseeability—what they knew or should have known about risks their Texas chapters were taking.

High-Risk National Organizations with Texas Presence

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

• Stone Foltz (BGSU 2021): $10M settlement after forced drinking death
• David Bogenberger (NIU 2012): $14M settlement after alcohol poisoning death
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, SMU, Texas Tech, many others
• Pattern: “Big/Little” drinking events with known fatal outcomes

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

• Traumatic Brain Injury Case (Alabama 2023): Ongoing litigation
• Chemical Burns Case (Texas A&M 2021): $1M lawsuit after cleaner poured on pledges
• Assault Case (UT Austin 2024): Over $1M lawsuit after exchange student injuries
• Texas Presence: Nearly every major Texas campus
• Pattern: Physical violence combined with substance abuse

Pi Kappa Phi

• Andrew Coffey (FSU 2017): Death during “Big Brother” night
• Leonel Bermudez (UH 2025): $10M lawsuit for rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
• Texas Presence: Multiple chapters including UH Beta Nu (now closed)
• Pattern: Extreme physical exertion combined with psychological abuse

Phi Delta Theta

• Max Gruver (LSU 2017): Felony hazing death leading to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act
• Texas Presence: Chapters throughout Texas university system
• Pattern: “Bible study” drinking games with fatal outcomes

Beta Theta Pi

• Timothy Piazza (Penn State 2017): Death with delayed medical care captured on video
• Texas Presence: Multiple Texas chapters
• Pattern: Alcohol-focused hazing with cover-up culture

How National Histories Create Legal Liability in Texas

When a Texas chapter repeats the same script that caused deaths or injuries elsewhere, courts consider:

Foreseeability: Did the national organization know this type of activity could cause harm based on prior incidents?

Negligent Supervision: Did nationals provide adequate oversight, training, and enforcement given known risks?

Punitive Damages Potential: Were warnings ignored or policies unenforced, showing reckless disregard for safety?

For Quitman families, these national patterns mean your child’s injury isn’t an isolated “accident”—it’s part of a predictable, preventable pattern that strengthens your legal position.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Damages

Successful hazing litigation requires immediate evidence preservation, strategic defendant identification, and comprehensive damages calculation.

Critical Evidence Categories

Digital Communications (Most Important)

• GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord messages
• Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok communications
• Deleted message recovery through digital forensics
• Planning conversations, instructions, threats, cover-up discussions

In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, group chats allegedly contained planning for hazing events, discussions of punishment for non-compliance, and possibly communications after Bermudez’s hospitalization.

Photos & Videos

• Content filmed during hazing events (often shared in group chats)
• Social media posts showing events or injuries
• Security camera footage from houses or venues
• Doorbell cameras capturing comings and goings

Internal Organization Documents

• Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
• Emails/texts from officers about activities
• National policies and training materials (showing what should have been prevented)

University Records

• Prior conduct files on the same organization
• Incident reports to campus police or conduct offices
• Clery Act reports and annual security disclosures
• Internal emails among administrators about the organization

Medical Records

• Emergency room and hospitalization records
• Toxicology reports (blood alcohol, drug screens)
• Specialist evaluations for physical injuries
• Psychological assessments for PTSD, depression, anxiety

Witness Testimony

• Other pledges or new members
• Former members who quit or were expelled
• Roommates, friends, significant others
• RA’s, coaches, trainers, bystanders

Damages in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

• Medical bills (ER, hospitalization, surgery, ongoing care)
• Future medical expenses (projected lifelong care for serious injuries)
• Lost educational costs (withdrawn semesters, transferred schools)
• Lost earning capacity (if injuries affect career prospects)
• Therapy and psychological treatment costs

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress, trauma, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Damage to relationships and social functioning

Wrongful Death Damages (for Families)

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship, love, guidance
• Emotional suffering of family members

Punitive Damages (When Appropriate)
Intended to punish particularly reckless or malicious conduct and deter future hazing. More likely when:

• Defendants had prior warnings and ignored them
• Conduct was especially cruel or degrading
• There were attempts to cover up or destroy evidence

Insurance Coverage Battles

Fraternities, sororities, and universities typically have insurance policies that become central to litigation:

Common Insurance Arguments:

• “Hazing is an intentional act, not covered”
• “The policy doesn’t cover this defendant”
• “Claims exceed policy limits”

How We Counter:

• Argue negligent supervision (covered) even if hazing was intentional
• Identify all potential policies (chapter, national, university, individual)
• Pursue bad faith claims if insurers wrongfully deny coverage

Mr. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney is particularly valuable here—he knows exactly how insurers evaluate and fight these claims.

Practical Guides for Quitman Families, Students, and Witnesses

For Parents: Warning Signs and Action Steps

Physical Warning Signs:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
• Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
• Weight loss/gain from food/water manipulation
• Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
• Injuries to hands/back/legs from paddling or exercise
• Chemical burns, rashes, or skin damage
• Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if your child doesn’t normally drink)

Behavioral & Emotional Red Flags:

• Sudden secrecy about organization activities
• Withdrawal from family, old friends, non-member activities
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Defensiveness when asked about the organization
• Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
• Obsession with pleasing older members
• “Just have to get through this” mentality

Academic & Financial Indicators:

• Grades dropping suddenly
• Missing classes or falling asleep in class
• Skipping academic commitments for “mandatory” events
• Unexpected large expenses (forced purchases, “fines”)
• Buying excessive alcohol or items for older members

48-Hour Parent Action Checklist:

HOUR 1–6 (IMMEDIATE CRISIS):
✅ Medical: If injured or intoxicated, get to ER immediately
✅ Safety: Remove child from dangerous situation
✅ Evidence: Screenshot any messages they show you; photograph visible injuries
✅ Notes: Write down everything they tell you (date, time, what happened, who was there)
✅ Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

HOUR 6–24 (EVIDENCE PRESERVATION):
✅ Digital: Help child preserve all group chats, DMs, texts (do NOT delete anything)
✅ Physical: Secure clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
✅ Medical records: Request copies of all ER/hospital records
✅ Witnesses: Write down names and contact info for other pledges, bystanders
✅ University: Note any communications from school but do NOT respond yet

HOUR 24–48 (STRATEGIC DECISIONS):
✅ Legal consultation: Speak with experienced hazing attorney
✅ Reporting decision: Decide whether to report to campus/local police (with lawyer’s guidance)
✅ University response: If school contacts you, refer them to your attorney
✅ Insurance: Do NOT talk to any insurance adjuster without lawyer present
✅ Evidence backup: Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage

For Students: Is This Hazing? What Are My Rights?

Self-Assessment Questions:

• 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?
• Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
• Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

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

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

• You cannot be punished for calling 911 or seeking medical help in an emergency (good-faith reporter immunity)
• Hazing is a crime; you are the victim, not the perpetrator (even if you “agreed”)
• You can file a civil lawsuit for damages even if no criminal charges are filed
• You can request a no-contact order through the university if you’re being harassed after reporting

Safe Exit Strategies:

1. Immediate danger: Call 911, get to safe location
2. Wanting to quit: Send email/text to chapter leadership: “I am resigning effective immediately”
3. Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where you might be pressured or retaliated against
4. Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend) so there’s a record
5. If fearing retaliation, report that fear to Dean of Students and campus police

For Former Members/Witnesses: Coming Forward

We understand the complexity:

• You may have participated and now regret it
• You might fear legal exposure or social consequences
• You want to help but don’t know how

What Your Cooperation Can Achieve:

• Prevent future injuries or deaths
• Create meaningful accountability
• Provide closure for victims and families

Legal Protections:

• Immunity for good-faith reporters (Texas Education Code § 37.154)
• Potential for reduced consequences in exchange for cooperation
• Confidentiality options through attorney representation

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

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

• What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
• Why it’s wrong: Looks like obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
• What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly

• What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
• Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• What to do instead: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

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

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

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

• What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
• Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
• What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

MISTAKE #5: Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”

• What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
• Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt the case
• What to do instead: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer

MISTAKE #6: Waiting “to see how the university handles it”

• What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
• Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
• What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

MISTAKE #7: Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer

• What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
• Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
• What to do instead: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Quitman Families

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (Texas A&M, UT, UH) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

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

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

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

“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“How much does it cost to hire a hazing attorney?”
We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This makes quality legal representation accessible to all families regardless of financial situation.

“What if my child was drinking underage during the hazing?”
Texas’s good-faith reporter immunity and many university amnesty policies protect students who seek medical help in emergencies, even if underage drinking occurred. The focus remains on the hazing perpetrators’ conduct.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases

When your Quitman 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 Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña)

• Former insurance defense attorney at a national firm
• Knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello)

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

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience

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

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

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

Investigative Depth

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

Spanish-Language Services

• Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
• Servicios legales disponibles en español
• Cultural understanding of Texas Hispanic families’ needs

Our Approach to Hazing Cases

Immediate Response

• 24/7 availability: 1-888-ATTY-911
• Evidence preservation guidance within hours
• Immediate communication with universities and insurers when appropriate

Thorough Investigation

• Digital forensics for deleted messages
• Public records research on organizations and prior incidents
• Witness interviews and evidence documentation
• Expert consultation (medical, psychological, economic)

Strategic Litigation

• Identifying all potentially liable parties
• Navigating insurance coverage battles
• Balancing settlement opportunities with trial readiness
• Protecting victim privacy while pursuing accountability

Empathetic Client Service

• We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face
• Regular updates and clear communication
• Respect for your family’s emotional journey
• Commitment to preventing future harm

Contact Attorney911 for a Confidential Consultation

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether Texas A&M-Commerce just minutes from Quitman or universities across the state—we want to hear from you. Families in Quitman, Mineola, Alba, Winnsboro, and across Wood County and East Texas have the right to answers and accountability.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

1. We Listen Without Judgment

   • Tell us what happened in your own words
   • Share any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
   • Ask any questions about the process

2. Case Evaluation

   • Explain your legal options: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
   • Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
   • Identify strengths and challenges specific to your situation

3. Clear Next Steps

   • Immediate evidence preservation actions
   • Communication strategy with universities/organizations
   • Explanation of costs (contingency fee—we don’t get paid unless we win)

4. No Pressure Decision

   • Take time to decide what’s right for your family
   • Everything you tell us is confidential
   • No obligation to hire us after the consultation

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)

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

Serving Quitman and All of Texas

From our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Quitman, Wood County, and all East Texas communities. Whether your child attends school nearby or hours away, Texas hazing law and experienced Texas counsel can help.

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