Hazing in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide for Donley County Families

It’s 3 AM, and your child’s phone rings, pulling them from sleep. A group chat message from their fraternity “Big Brother” demands their immediate presence at an off-campus house for an “emergency chapter meeting.” When they arrive, they’re met with aggressive shouting, forced alcohol consumption, and humiliating tasks designed to “test their loyalty” and “build character.” They’re told to keep everything secret, that “everyone goes through it,” and that if they complain, they’ll be labeled a “rat” and ostracized. One of their pledge brothers collapses, vomiting and barely conscious, but nobody wants to call 911 because they’re afraid of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble” with the university. Your child feels trapped, caught between loyalty to the group and their growing fear for their own safety and the safety of their friends.

This isn’t a scene from a movie; it’s a modern hazing scenario that could unfold at any university in Texas, impacting students from communities like Donley County. While the vibrant community of Donley County may feel far removed from the bustling campuses of Houston, Austin, College Station, or Dallas, the reality is that many Donley County families send their children to these very institutions, hoping for a bright and safe future. Unfortunately, the shadowy world of hazing persists, often in ways that parents and students might not recognize, until it’s too late.

This comprehensive guide is written for families in Donley County and across Texas who need to understand:

• What hazing truly looks like in 2025, far beyond outdated stereotypes.
• How Texas and federal law specifically address hazing and its devastating consequences.
• What we can learn from major national cases and how their precedents apply to students and families in Texas.
• The specific hazing challenges and responses at prominent Texas universities, including the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University.
• The legal options and pathways to justice available to victims and families in Donley County and throughout Texas.

This article provides general information and is not specific legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, can evaluate individual cases based on their unique facts. We serve families throughout Texas, including those in Donley County who are seeking answers and accountability.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 911 for medical emergencies.
  • Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911).
  • We provide immediate help – that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

• In the first 48 hours, time is critical:

  • Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.”
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
    • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages instantly.
    • Photograph any visible injuries from multiple angles.
    • Secure any physical items involved (clothing, receipts, props like paddles).
  • Write down everything while memory is fresh (who was involved, what happened, when, where).
  • Do NOT:
    • Confront the fraternity/sorority or student organization directly.
    • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal advice.
    • Post details on public social media.
    • Allow your child to delete messages or “clean up” any evidence.

• Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

  • Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed property, coached witnesses).
  • Universities move quickly to control the narrative.
  • We can help preserve critical evidence and protect your child’s rights.
  • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Donley County families, understanding hazing today requires moving beyond outdated movie stereotypes. Modern hazing is often subtle, insidious, and adapts to avoid detection, but its core purpose remains the same: to assert dominance and humiliate new members under the guise of “tradition” or “bonding.”

Hazing is broadly defined as any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action connected to joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. It’s crucial to understand that a student’s “agreement” to participate does not automatically make it safe or legal, especially when peer pressure, fear of exclusion, and power imbalances are at play.

Main Categories of Modern Hazing

Hazing manifests in various forms, often escalating in severity.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most dangerous and prevalent forms. It involves forced or coerced drinking, often leading to rapid, excessive alcohol consumption. This can include chugging challenges, “lineups” where pledges drink continuously, or drinking games that require rapid intoxication. It also encompasses pressuring students to consume unknown or mixed substances. Many tragic hazing deaths are directly linked to this category.

• Physical Hazing: Beyond the stereotypical paddling, physical hazing includes extreme calisthenics, forced “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond normal athletic conditioning. It can also involve sleep deprivation, food or water deprivation, or exposure to extreme hot or cold environments, often without proper clothing or shelter. These activities are designed to physically exhaust, demoralize, and break down individuals, sometimes leading to severe injury or illness.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This category is particularly insidious and psychologically damaging. It may involve forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (sometimes described euphemistically as “elephant walks” or “roasted pig” positions), or being forced to wear degrading costumes. Hazing can also include acts with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones, using slurs, or forcing students into demeaning role-play that targets their identity or background.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but deeply harmful, psychological hazing includes verbal abuse, constant threats, and intentional isolation from friends and family. It can involve manipulation tactics, forced public confessions of embarrassing secrets, or intense public shaming on social media or in meetings. This type of hazing aims to break down a student’s self-esteem and sense of autonomy, fostering dependence on the group.

• Digital/Online Hazing: With the rise of smartphones and social media, hazing has evolved to the digital realm. This includes group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, and even private fraternity apps. It also involves intense pressure to create or share compromising images or videos, or participate in online “witch hunts” against other members or rivals. Digital hazing often provides a trove of evidence, though it can be quickly deleted.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

The public often associates hazing primarily with fraternities. However, the problem extends far beyond Greek life, impacting a wide range of organizations and activities across university campuses:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes social fraternities and sororities recognized by Interfraternity Councils (IFC), Panhellenic Councils, National Pan-Hellenic Councils (NPHC), and various multicultural Greek organizations.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets, for example, has faced hazing allegations rooted in traditions and command structures.
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs: Groups like university spirit organizations, cheerleading squads, and long-standing “tradition” clubs or secret societies can be prone to hazing.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, swimming, and cheer, athletic teams at all levels can engage in hazing practices as part of “team building” or initiation rituals.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly harmless groups like marching bands and other performance organizations have faced hazing accusations.
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Hazing can infiltrate any group where there is a strong desire for membership and a hierarchical structure.

Social status, tradition, and intense secrecy—often enforced through loyalty pledges and threats of ostracization—are key factors that allow these dangerous practices to persist, even when participants and organizations “know” hazing is against the law and university policy.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For Donley County families, understanding the legal landscape around hazing in Texas is crucial. The law provides clear definitions, penalties, and avenues for accountability, though navigating this complex framework often requires experienced legal guidance.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions primarily housed within the Texas Education Code. This code broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, whether on or off campus, that:

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

This definition clarifies several key points for Donley County residents:

• Location is irrelevant: Hazing can happen literally anywhere – on campus, off-campus, at a private residence, or even at a remote retreat.
• Harm is broad: It doesn’t have to be physical. Mental and psychological endangerment (e.g., extreme humiliation, intimidation, sleep deprivation) also qualifies.
• Intent vs. Recklessness: The person committing hazing doesn’t necessarily need to want to cause harm; if they act recklessly (knowing there’s a serious risk of harm and doing it anyway), it still counts as hazing.
• “Consent” is not a defense: As we will discuss further, Texas law explicitly states that a student’s “agreement” or “consent” to be hazed does not make the act legal.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing:

Hazing is a crime in Texas, and penalties can be severe:

• Class B Misdemeanor: This is the default classification for hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (punishable by up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,000).
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes bodily injury that requires medical attention.
• State Jail Felony: If the hazing causes serious bodily injury (e.g., a broken bone, disfigurement, or prolonged loss of function) or, tragically, death.
• Additionally, failing to report hazing (if you’re a member or officer aware of it) and retaliating against someone who reports hazing are also misdemeanors.

Organizational Liability:

Texas law also holds organizations criminally accountable. An organization (such as a fraternity, sorority, or club) can face criminal prosecution for hazing if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing; or
• An officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it.
• Organizations may face fines up to $10,000 per violation and can have their recognition revoked by the university.

Reporter Protections:

Crucially, Texas law provides some immunity for good-faith reporting. A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university authorities or law enforcement is generally immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise arise from their report. Furthermore, many university policies, bolstered by Texas law, offer amnesty to students who call 911 or seek medical help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or other minor offenses were involved. This aims to encourage students to prioritize safety over fear of getting in trouble.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It is important for Donley County families to understand the distinction between criminal and civil hazing cases:

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (through a district attorney or prosecutor) against individuals or organizations accused of violating hazing laws. The objective of a criminal case is to punish the accused (with jail time, fines, or probation) and deter future unlawful behavior. Hazing-related criminal charges can range from basic hazing offenses and furnishing alcohol to minors, to more severe charges like assault, aggravated assault, or even manslaughter in fatal cases.

• Civil Cases: These are initiated by victims or their surviving family members (the “plaintiffs”) against the individuals and entities responsible for the hazing (the “defendants”). The primary goal of a civil case is to obtain monetary compensation for the harm suffered and to hold responsible parties accountable. Civil hazing claims often focus on legal theories such as:

  • Negligence and Gross Negligence: Arguing that individuals or institutions failed in their duty of care to protect students.
  • Wrongful Death: When hazing results in a fatality, families can seek compensation for their profound losses.
  • Negligent Hiring/Supervision: If a university or national organization failed to properly vet or oversee staff/members.
  • Premises Liability: If the hazing occurred on property where the owner failed to maintain a safe environment.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe psychological harm.

It is critical to note that criminal and civil cases can proceed concurrently. A criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil lawsuit, as the burden of proof is different.

Federal Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery

Beyond state laws, federal regulations also impact how hazing is addressed on college campuses, especially for institutions that receive federal funding.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation, set to be fully implemented by around 2026, requires colleges and universities receiving federal funding to be more transparent about hazing incidents. Institutions must:

  • Report hazing incidents and related outcomes annually.
  • Strengthen hazing education and prevention programs.
  • Maintain publicly accessible data on hazing violations.
    This act aims to create greater accountability and empower prospective students and families in Donley County with information when choosing a university.

• Title IX and the Clery Act:

  • Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, it can trigger Title IX obligations, requiring universities to investigate and address such conduct promptly and effectively.
  • Clery Act: This federal law requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. Hazing incidents, particularly those involving assaults, alcohol/drug violations, or sexual misconduct, often overlap with Clery reporting requirements, further increasing transparency.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

One of the complexities of hazing litigation is identifying all responsible parties. A civil lawsuit can target multiple individuals and entities, striving for comprehensive accountability:

• Individual Students: These are often the direct perpetrators—the “pledge educators,” officers, or members who actively planned, enforced, or carried out the hazing acts. Their personal actions can lead to liability.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The fraternity, sorority, or student group itself can be named as a defendant if it is recognized as a legal entity. Its officers and leaders, who often have a duty to prevent hazing, can also be held responsible for their actions or inactions.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters of Greek-letter organizations play a significant role. They establish policies, provide training, collect dues, and often have a degree of oversight over local chapters. Liability can arise if the national organization failed to enforce its anti-hazing policies, ignored prior warnings of hazing at a chapter, or allowed a pattern of abuse to continue.
• University or Governing Board: Universities can be held liable under various legal theories, including negligence, gross negligence, premises liability, or deliberate indifference to known patterns of hazing. This is particularly true if the university had knowledge of hazing, failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it, or inadequately responded to complaints. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) may have some sovereign immunity, but exceptions often exist for gross negligence or Title IX violations. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: Other entities can sometimes be brought into a lawsuit, such as:
  • Landlords or Property Owners: If the hazing occurred in a privately owned house (e.g., an “unofficial” fraternity house or rental property) and the owner knew or should have known of dangerous activities and failed to act.
  • Bars or Alcohol Providers: If alcohol was illegally furnished to minors or to visibly intoxicated individuals, contributing to the hazing incident (under “dram shop” laws).
  • Security Companies or Event Organizers: If their negligence contributed to the unsafe environment.

Every hazing case is fact-specific; not every party is liable in every situation. An experienced hazing attorney can thoroughly investigate the incident to identify all potentially responsible parties and build a comprehensive case for accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

When a Donley County family faces a hazing incident in Texas, the legal and emotional landscape can feel overwhelming. Yet, it’s important to know that many devastating hazing cases across the nation have established critical legal precedents and highlighted persistent patterns. These national “anchor stories” demonstrate the severity of hazing, the accountability that can be pursued, and the lessons that should inform our approach to hazing at Texas universities today.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption is overwhelmingly the most common cause of hazing fatalities. These cases illustrate how dangerous “traditions” can turn deadly, often exacerbated by a cover-up culture.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (February 2017): This tragic case involved 19-year-old pledge Timothy Piazza, who died from traumatic brain injuries after a “bid acceptance” night. He was forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol, leading to multiple falls captured on the fraternity’s security cameras. Horrifically, his fraternity brothers delayed calling for medical help for nearly 12 hours out of fear of getting in trouble. The aftermath included criminal charges against 18 fraternity members (including involuntary manslaughter and aggravated assault), civil litigation, and the creation of Pennsylvania’s stringent Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. This case starkly demonstrates how extreme intoxication, deliberate delay in calling 911, and a pervasive culture of silence can lead to devastating legal and human consequences.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (November 2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to drink them. Multiple members were prosecuted, mostly pleading guilty to misdemeanor hazing. The incident led to Florida State temporarily suspending all Greek life and implementing comprehensive policy overhauls. This case tragically highlights how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights designed to get pledges dangerously intoxicated are a repeating script for disaster.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (September 2017): Max Gruver, 18, died from alcohol toxicity after being forced to participate in a “Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers led to forced drinking. His blood alcohol content (BAC) was 0.495%, over six times the legal limit for driving. The incident resulted in multiple members being charged, with one convicted of negligent homicide. The civil case led to a $6.1 million verdict against the fraternity and individuals. In response, Louisiana enacted the Max Gruver Act, elevating hazing to a felony when it causes serious injury or death. This case underscores how legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing’s lethal consequences.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (March 2021): Stone Foltz, also 20, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” pledge night. The incident involved multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members. The Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with approximately $7 million coming from the national Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and $3 million from Bowling Green State University. This case demonstrates that universities, even public ones, can face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities following a hazing tragedy.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized hazing can also lead to severe injury or death, often when conducted in secrecy away from watchful eyes.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (December 2013): Michael Deng, 19, died after being subjected to a violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. He was repeatedly tackled while wearing a heavy backpack, suffering a fatal traumatic brain injury. Fraternity members delayed calling 911. Multiple members were convicted, and the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity itself was found guilty of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, subsequently banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. This landmark case demonstrates that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or even more dangerous than parties on campus, and national organizations can face severe criminal penalties and sanctions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it infiltrates many university groups, including high-profile athletic programs.

• Northwestern University – Football Hazing Scandal (2023–2025): This scandal erupted when former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over multiple years. The incidents led to the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later filed a wrongful-termination lawsuit. Multiple former players have sued Northwestern University and the coaching staff. This case highlighted that hazing extends far beyond Greek life into major athletic programs, raising profound questions about institutional oversight and the culture that can thrive in such environments.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national cases, while not occurring in Texas, establish crucial common threads and legal precedents that directly impact how hazing is viewed and litigated here. For Donley County families, these lessons are vital:

• Common Threads: Recurring themes include forced drinking, extreme humiliation, physical violence, deliberate delays in seeking medical care, and concerted cover-up efforts. These patterns show systemic failures rather than isolated incidents.
• Post-Tragedy Reforms: Regrettably, significant reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements often only materialize after a tragedy has occurred and after victims or their families pursue vigorous litigation.
• Legal Precedents: These cases have solidified legal theories of liability against individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and universities, demonstrating that powerful institutions can and will be held accountable.
• Texas Context: Donley County families, whose children may attend UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor, are operating in a legal landscape shaped by these national lessons. An experienced Texas hazing attorney can leverage these precedents to build strong cases against those responsible.

Texas Focus: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

For Donley County families, understanding the specific context of hazing at major Texas universities is paramount. Each institution has its own culture, policies, and history of addressing—or failing to address—hazing. While Donley County is located in the Texas Panhandle, a significant distance from these larger university towns, it’s common for students from Donley County and the surrounding Texas Panhandle region (including counties like Armstrong, Briscoe, Hall, and Gray) to attend these prominent institutions. Therefore, our focus here is on informing those Donley County residents whose children may be enrolled at, or considering enrolling in, these Texas universities, and how hazing incidents might proceed within the relevant jurisdictions.

University of Houston (UH)

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston is a large, vibrant urban campus in the heart of Houston, Texas, offering a diverse and dynamic student body. It caters to both residential and commuter students and boasts an active Greek life with multiple fraternities and sororities from various councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural). Additionally, UH hosts a wide range of student organizations, including cultural groups, sports clubs, and academic associations, all of which carry some inherent risk of hazing if not properly supervised. Donley County families considering UH for their children should be aware of the fast-paced, multi-faceted environment in one of Texas’s largest metropolitan areas.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UH maintains a clear anti-hazing policy, explicitly prohibiting any form of hazing, whether it occurs on campus properties or off-campus. The policy condemns forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and mentally distressing activities as part of initiation or affiliation. Students and families can report suspected hazing through the UH Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, or the UH Police Department (UHPD). UH also provides a public statement on hazing and, to some extent, lists disciplinary actions on its website, aligning with transparency efforts.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Response

UH has faced its share of hazing allegations and disciplinary actions. Notably, a 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) incident involved pledges allegedly deprived of sufficient food, water, and sleep during a multi-day event. One student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being violently slammed onto a table or similar surface. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges filed by local authorities and received a university suspension. Later disciplinary actions against other fraternities have cited behavior “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” as well as alcohol misuse and numerous policy violations, leading to suspensions or periods of probation. These incidents highlight UH’s willingness to suspend chapters when hazing is found, although the specific details in public records can sometimes be limited, contrasting with the more detailed public violation lists found at other institutions.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a hazing incident involving a student from Donley County at UH, the legal process can be complex. Agencies involved may include the UH Police Department for campus-specific incidents or the Houston Police Department if incidents occur off-campus within city limits. Civil lawsuits related to UH hazing would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Potential defendants in such a case could include the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the University of Houston itself, along with property owners if the hazing occurred off-campus.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

• Report Concerns: If you suspect hazing, immediately contact the UH Dean of Students office, UHPD, or utilize UH’s online reporting forms.
• Document Everything: For parents from Donley County, if your child expresses concerns, document every detail: dates, times, specific actions, names of perpetuators, and any witnesses.
• Legal Counsel: Given the urban environment and the complexity of navigating both university and city law enforcement, consulting with a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases is vital. Such an attorney can help uncover prior complaints, internal university files, and navigate local specificities.

Texas A&M University

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M University, located in College Station, is deeply rooted in tradition, fostering a distinct culture that often emphasizes loyalty, camaraderie, and formalized structures, particularly within its renowned Corps of Cadets. Alongside a robust Greek life, the university is defined by a strong sense of Aggie identity and a community that extends far beyond the Brazos Valley, including many former students and families from Donley County and the surrounding rural Texas Panhandle who share deep-seated values with the institution. This tradition-heavy environment, while fostering strong bonds, also presents unique challenges regarding hazing when traditions cross legal and ethical boundaries.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M strictly prohibits hazing across all student organizations, including Greek life, the Corps of Cadets, and athletic teams. The university defines prohibited acts consistent with Texas state law, encompassing any mental or physical endangerment for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. Reporting mechanisms are available through the Division of Student Affairs, Student Conduct Office, and the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD). The university is expected to maintain records of hazing violations as mandated by state and impending federal laws.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Response

Texas A&M has faced significant hazing issues within both its Greek system and the Corps of Cadets. In 2021, two pledges of Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) alleged severe hazing that involved having substances, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring emergency surgeries and skin grafts. The incident led to the fraternity’s suspension and a $1 million lawsuit filed by the pledges against the fraternity. Separate from Greek life, a 2023 lawsuit against the Corps of Cadets alleged degrading hazing, including simulated sexual acts and a former cadet being bound in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The cadet sought over $1 million in damages, highlighting the inherent risks in military-style groups when rituals escalate into abuse.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a hazing incident at Texas A&M impacting a student from Donley County, legal proceedings would often involve the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD) for on-campus incidents or the Bryan/College Station Police Departments for off-campus events. Civil claims would typically be filed in courts within Brazos County. Cases often focus on both Greek life organizations and the deeply ingrained Corps traditions. A key aspect would be investigating the university’s knowledge of, and response to, past hazing incidents within these specific organizations.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

• Report Internally & Externally: Utilize TAMU’s reporting channels, but also consider local law enforcement if crimes are committed.
• Understand Corps Culture: Parents of Corps members should be uniquely vigilant, understanding the potential for hazing within its hierarchical structure, and be prepared to protect their children if traditions become abusive.
• Document Traditions: Any “tradition” that causes harm needs to be documented thoroughly.
• Seek Specialized Legal Advice: Given the unique culture of Texas A&M and its Corps of Cadets, a lawyer familiar with these specific environments is crucial to effectively investigate and litigate a hazing case.

University of Texas at Austin (UT)

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin is the flagship institution of the UT System, known for its academic rigor, vibrant student life, and a strong sense of tradition embodied by “Hook ’em Horns.” Located in the state capital, UT Austin attracts a diverse student body from across Texas and beyond, including many from communities like Donley County. While it offers a large and active Greek system, the campus also hosts numerous spirit groups, athletic teams, and other organizations that have been implicated in hazing incidents.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UT Austin maintains a robust anti-hazing policy that strictly prohibits any physical or mental harm for purposes of initiation or membership in any student organization. The university is notably proactive in transparency regarding hazing. Its publicly accessible Hazing Violation Report page annually lists organizations, the nature of violations, dates, and sanctions imposed. Students can report hazing via the Dean of Students office, Student Conduct, the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD), or through anonymous online forms.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Response

UT Austin’s public hazing log provides valuable insight into ongoing issues. Recent entries include cases such as Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) (2023), where new members were directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, actions found to constitute hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education. Other spirit groups and organizations, like Texas Wranglers, have also faced sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and other punishment-based practices disguised as “tradition.” While UT’s transparency is commendable, the recurring nature of these violations highlights persistent challenges that the university continues to grapple with despite its efforts.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a student from Donley County involved in a hazing incident at UT Austin, investigations could involve the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) or the Austin Police Department if events occurred off-campus. Civil lawsuits would typically fall under the jurisdiction of courts in Travis County. The existence of UT’s public hazing log is a significant advantage for victims, as documented prior violations can strongly support civil lawsuits by demonstrating established patterns of misconduct and the university’s prior knowledge of problematic organizations.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

• Review Hazing Log: Donley County parents should review UT Austin’s public Hazing Violation Report (hazing.utexas.edu) to understand an organization’s disciplinary history before their child joins.
• Report Aggressively: Utilize UT’s clear reporting channels and understand that the university is equipped to investigate.
• Preserve Digital Evidence: Given the prevalence of digital hazing, students should immediately screenshot any incriminating group chats, photos, or videos.
• Consult Legal Experts: A lawyer experienced in reviewing university disciplinary records can effectively leverage UT’s transparency to build a strong legal case, showing the university’s history of dealing with specific fraternities or organizations.

Southern Methodist University (SMU)

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Southern Methodist University (SMU), located in Dallas, boasts a reputation as a private, affluent institution with a vibrant social scene, heavily influenced by a strong Greek presence. Many students from Donley County and other more rural Texas areas are drawn to SMU’s academic excellence and social opportunities. Its active Greek life is central to its social fabric, though this also places a particular responsibility on the university and Greek organizations to ensure student safety and prevent hazing.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU strictly prohibits hazing across all student organizations, emphasizing a commitment to student well-being and safety. Its policy aligns with Texas state law, defining hazing as any act that endangers mental, physical, or emotional health for the purpose of initiation, admission, affiliation, or continued membership. SMU encourages students and faculty to utilize reporting channels through its Office of Student Affairs, the student conduct system, or the SMU Police Department. The university also supports anonymous reporting systems like “Real Response” to encourage individuals to come forward without fear of retaliation.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Response

SMU has had its share of hazing incidents, often resulting in significant disciplinary action. A notable case involved the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity (2017), where new members were reportedly paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and subjected to sleep deprivation. This incident resulted in the chapter’s suspension and severe restrictions on its recruiting activities for several years, halting their operations much longer than a typical probation. While private universities like SMU often do not make their disciplinary records as publicly accessible as state universities, their policies and administrative actions indicate a commitment to addressing hazing when it is formally reported.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a hazing incident at SMU involving a student from Donley County, investigations could involve the SMU Police Department for campus-related incidents or the Dallas Police Department for off-campus events. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in courts within Dallas County. Because SMU is a private university, it does not enjoy the same sovereign immunity protections as public institutions, potentially making it more directly liable for negligence. Civil litigation can also compel discovery of internal investigative reports and disciplinary records that might not be publicly posted, providing crucial evidence for a case.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

• Utilize Anonymous Reporting: Encourage students to use SMU’s anonymous reporting channels if they fear direct confrontation.
• Document Discreetly: Due to less public transparency at private schools, students (and their parents from places like Donley County) must be diligent in discreetly documenting any hazing with photos, texts, or recordings.
• Aggressive Legal Action: Because private universities have different liability structures, families should be prepared to pursue aggressive legal action if necessary, as these cases can be pivotal in forcing transparency and accountability.

Baylor University

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University, located in Waco, is a private Christian university deeply committed to its faith-based mission. It attracts a broad range of students, including many from Donley County and values-oriented communities across Texas. Baylor has an active Greek life and numerous student organizations. The university’s strong emphasis on community and moral behavior sets a high expectation for student conduct, though it has unfortunately faced significant scrutiny in the past regarding institutional oversight, particularly concerning sexual assault and a pervasive “culture of silence” within its athletic programs which has shaped its approach to other forms of student misconduct.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University strictly prohibits hazing, articulating a zero-tolerance policy against any acts that endanger the mental or physical health of its students for the purpose of group affiliation. Its policy broadly aligns with Texas state law. Students and parents can report hazing to the Dean of Students office, the Department of Student Activities, Baylor’s Title IX Office (if sexual violence is involved), or the Baylor Police Department. The university encourages reporting through various channels, emphasizing its commitment to fostering a safe and supportive campus environment.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Response

Baylor has grappled with significant institutional challenges and cultural issues, stemming notably from its highly publicized football and Title IX scandals. While not always in the public spotlight to the same extent, hazing has also been an area of concern. A notable incident involved Baylor baseball hazing in 2020, where 14 players were suspended following a hazing investigation. The suspensions were staggered over the early season to mitigate impact on the team, but the incident underscored that hazing can occur even within successful athletic programs at institutions with strong oversight. This highlights that despite official “zero tolerance” statements, misconduct can persist, reflecting a broader cultural or oversight issue the university must consistently address.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a hazing incident involving a student from Donley County at Baylor, investigations would likely involve the Baylor Police Department for on-campus events or the Waco Police Department for off-campus incidents. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in courts within McLennan County. Given Baylor’s private university status and its recent history of high-profile legal scrutiny for its handling of student misconduct, hazing cases against Baylor can be particularly sensitive. Plaintiffs’ attorneys would closely examine university policies, their enforcement, and any evidence of institutional indifference or failure to protect students, especially in light of prior major scandals.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

• Be Extra Diligent: Donley County parents and students at Baylor should be particularly diligent in documenting and reporting any hazing concerns, given the university’s past challenges with institutional oversight.
• Understand Baylor’s Context: Recognize that Baylor’s history of addressing student misconduct, including Title IX issues, will shape its response to hazing allegations.
• Seek Prompt Legal Counsel: Given the backdrop of prior high-profile legal cases, an attorney experienced in litigation against private universities is essential to navigate the complexities of a Baylor hazing claim effectively.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Donley County families often place trust in Greek-letter organizations, viewing them as valuable avenues for leadership development and community engagement. However, the recurring pattern of hazing across Texas campuses like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor is often linked to the historical practices and oversight—or lack thereof—of national fraternity and sorority headquarters. Understanding this connection is vital for assessing accountability.

Why National Histories Matter

The reality is that many fraternities and sororities present on Texas campuses are chapters of national organizations. These national headquarters typically:

• Develop comprehensive anti-hazing manuals and risk management policies. This often happens because they have a documented history of severe injuries, deaths, and multi-million-dollar lawsuits across their chapters nationwide.
• Are acutely aware of recurring hazing patterns within their organizations: forced drinking nights, ritualized paddling, humiliating “traditions,” and the culture of silence that protects these behaviors.

When a local chapter at a Texas university replicates the same dangerous script that has caused injury or death at another chapter in another state, it can be powerful legal evidence. This demonstrates foreseeability—meaning the national organization knew or should have known these types of incidents were likely to occur again—and can significantly strengthen claims of negligence or even punitive damages against the national entity.

Organization Mapping: National Hazing Incidents with Texas Presence

While hazing can occur in any Greek organization, certain fraternities have tragically made headlines more frequently for severe, often fatal, incidents. Families in Donley County whose children attend Texas universities where these organizations have chapters should be aware of these broader patterns.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This national fraternity has faced multiple high-profile hazing deaths.

  • Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (2021): A pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a ritualized “Big/Little” night. The incident resulted in criminal convictions for multiple members and a $10 million settlement with the family, including significant payouts from both the national fraternity and the university.
  • David Bogenberger – Northern Illinois University (2012): A pledge also died from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event. His family was awarded a $14 million settlement.
  • Pi Kappa Alpha chapters are present at UH and UT Austin, and have been involved in hazing incidents at both, including the 2023 UT Austin suspension for forced calisthenics and milk consumption. The pattern of excessive alcohol consumption during pledge activities is a recurring and deadly theme for this organization.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): SAE has a documented history of hazing-related deaths and severe injuries across the country.

  • SAE notoriously eliminated its traditional pledge process in 2014 in response to a pattern of deaths and widespread hazing, but incidents persist.
  • University of Alabama (2023): A lawsuit was filed alleging a pledge suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual.
  • Texas A&M University (2021): Two pledges alleged severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries after being doused with industrial-strength cleaner, eggs, and spit. The pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million.
  • University of Texas at Austin (2024): A lawsuit was filed by an Australian exchange student alleging assault by fraternity members at a party, resulting in severe leg and facial injuries.
  • SAE has chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. These incidents collectively show a pattern of physical abuse and potentially severe injuries, despite national policy changes.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

  • Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University (2017): A pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to participate in a “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking. Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute, was enacted in response.
  • Phi Delta Theta has chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. The method of forced drinking games is a recurring tactic.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

  • Andrew Coffey – Florida State University (2017): A pledge died from acute alcohol poisoning during “Big Brother Night” where pledges were given handles of hard liquor.
  • Pi Kappa Phi has chapters at UH and Texas A&M. This case is a stark example of alcohol-fueled “tradition” directly leading to death.

• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ):

  • This fraternity has faced numerous suspensions nationally for hazing-related activities. Notably, its SMU chapter was suspended in 2017 for paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation.
  • Kappa Alpha Order has chapters at Texas A&M and SMU.

• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ):

  • Timothy Piazza – Penn State University (2017): Died from traumatic brain injuries after extreme alcohol consumption and falls during a “bid acceptance” night, with brothers delaying calling for help. This led to the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania.
  • Beta Theta Pi chapters are present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. This case highlights extreme alcohol hazing and the deadly consequences of a cover-up.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

These patterns across states and campuses are not isolated incidents; they demonstrate that certain fraternities and sororities, and their national organizations, have received repeated warnings about their dangerous practices. For a Donley County family pursuing a hazing claim in a Texas court, this history is critical because it helps prove:

• Foreseeability: That the national organization knew or should have known that hazing, and similar types of harm, were likely to occur again within its chapters due to past incidents.
• Negligent Oversight: That despite this knowledge, the national organization failed to meaningfully enforce its anti-hazing policies, adequately train members, or intervene aggressively enough in response to prior violations.

This evidence can significantly impact:

• Settlement Leverage: Demonstrating a pattern of negligence often strengthens a plaintiff’s position in settlement negotiations.
• Insurance Coverage Disputes: It can help overcome arguments from insurers that hazing was an “unforeseeable accident” or an “intentional act” excluded from coverage, by showing a long-standing pattern of negligent supervision.
• Potential for Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious conduct and repeated failures to act, judges and juries may award punitive damages, designed to punish particularly reckless behavior and deter future misconduct.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

When a hazing incident rocks a Donley County family, the path to justice requires meticulous investigation, strategic legal thinking, and a deep understanding of modern evidence collection. Building a strong case against individuals, a local chapter, a national organization, or a university involves piecing together various forms of evidence to prove negligence, foreseeability, and the full extent of the harm suffered.

Evidence: The Cornerstones of a Hazing Case

Modern hazing leaves a digital footprint, and collecting that evidence immediately is paramount.

• Digital Communications: These are often the most critical pieces of evidence. Group chat messages from platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and even fraternity/sorority-specific apps can reveal planning, intent, knowledge, and ongoing hazing activities. Messages from Instagram DMs, Snapchat, and TikTok also provide crucial insights. It is vital to preserve the full context of conversations, including sender names, timestamps, and messages before and after the hazing occurs. Even deleted messages can sometimes be recovered through digital forensics, but immediate screenshots and preservation are always best.

• Photos & Videos: Any content filmed by members during hazing events, or footage of injuries, humiliating acts, or forced drinking, is invaluable. This includes content shared in group chats, posted on social media, or even “private” story feeds. Security camera footage, such as from Ring doorbells at off-campus houses or surveillance cameras at venues, can also capture critical moments.

• Internal Organization Documents: These documents can be obtained through legal discovery. They include pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “traditions” lists, emails or texts from officers discussing “what we’ll do to pledges,” and comprehensive national policies and training materials. These reveal an organization’s knowledge and its attempts (or failures) to prevent hazing.

• University Records: Through public records requests (for state schools) or legal discovery (for private schools), a skilled attorney can uncover:

  • Records of prior discipline against the same chapter for hazing or other misconduct.
  • Campus police incident reports involving the organization or its members.
  • Clery Act reports and other public safety disclosures.
  • Internal emails among administrators discussing hazing concerns.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the direct impact of the hazing. They include emergency room and hospitalization records, surgical notes, physical therapy reports, and toxicology results. Crucially, psychological evaluations, therapy notes, and diagnoses (such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation) help capture the profound emotional and mental trauma of hazing.

• Witness Testimony: The accounts of other pledges, active members, roommates, resident assistants (RAs), coaches, and even bystanders are invaluable. Former members who quit or were expelled, having first-hand experience with the culture, can also provide powerful insights and testimony.

The Manginello Law Firm’s video, “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs), provides excellent guidance on preserving digital evidence effectively.

Damages: Understanding the Full Scope of Recovery

Hazing inflicts a wide range of harm, and civil lawsuits aim to provide comprehensive compensation for these losses. For Donley County families, understanding these categories is crucial:

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This includes reimbursement for all past medical expenses (ER visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, therapy) and estimates for all necessary future medical care, especially in cases of lifelong injuries like brain damage or organ failure.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This covers lost wages if the victim or a parent had to miss work. It also accounts for the financial impact of missed semesters, delayed graduation, lost scholarships, and reduced earning capacity if permanent injuries hinder future employment.

• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for the subjective yet profoundly real harms that hazing causes:

  • Physical pain and suffering: From injuries received and ongoing chronic pain.
  • Emotional distress and psychological trauma: Including PTSD, anxiety, depression, humiliation, shame, and fear.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: The inability to participate in activities, hobbies, and social life due to injuries or trauma.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): In the most tragic cases, when hazing results in death, surviving family members can recover:

  • Funeral and burial costs.
  • Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided.
  • Loss of companionship, love, and society.
  • Grief and emotional suffering of the family.

We do not guarantee specific dollar amounts, as every case is unique, but we pursue comprehensive recovery for all harms suffered.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Holding multiple entities accountable is often essential in hazing cases. National fraternities, sororities, and universities often hold insurance policies that may apply to hazing incidents. However, their insurers frequently attempt to deny coverage, arguing that hazing or outright assault is an “intentional act” excluded from standard policies, or that the policy doesn’t cover a specific defendant.

Experienced hazing lawyers at The Manginello Law Firm know how to:

• Identify all potential sources of insurance coverage, including individual members’ homeowner policies, local chapter policies, national umbrella policies, and university liability policies.
• Strategically argue that even if the hazing was intentional, the national organization’s or university’s failure to supervise or prevent it was negligent, which often is covered by insurance.
• Force insurers to fulfill their duty to defend the entities they cover, or pursue claims of “bad faith” if coverage is wrongfully denied.

This complex navigation of insurance policies ensures that adequate resources are available to compensate victims, even from powerful defendants.

Practical Guides & FAQs

When a hazing incident occurs, families and students in Donley County need immediate, actionable guidance. Knowing what to watch for, how to react, and who to trust can be the difference between a tragedy remaining hidden and finding justice.

For Parents

No parent from Donley County wants to imagine their child enduring hazing, but vigilance is key.

• Warning Signs of Hazing:

  • Unexplained injuries: Bruises, burns, or repeated “accidents” with inconsistent stories.
  • Extreme fatigue: Sudden, chronic exhaustion, despite adequate sleep opportunities.
  • Drastic mood shifts: Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, or withdrawal from family and friends.
  • Secrecy: Your child becomes unusually secretive about group activities, using phrases like “I can’t talk about it,” or “It’s a secret.”
  • Constant phone use / anxiety: Obsessively checking group chats, responding to demands at all hours, or showing anxiety when their phone rings from group members.
  • Defensiveness: Getting angry or defensive when you ask about their group’s activities.
  • Weight changes: Sudden, unexplained weight loss or gain, possibly due to food/sleep deprivation or stress.
  • Academic decline: Grades dropping, missing classes, or being too tired or preoccupied to study.

• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation calmly and non-judgmentally. Emphasize their safety and well-being above all else. Start with open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with your [fraternity/sorority/team]?” or “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?” Reassure them that you will support them regardless of what they say, and that their safety is your priority, not “getting them in trouble.”

• If Your Child Is Hurt: Get them immediate medical care. Prioritize their health and safety. While seeking care, document everything: take photos of any injuries, save text messages or group chats they show you, and write down every detail your child shares (who, what, when, where).

• Dealing with the University: Document every conversation with university administrators (Dean of Students, Title IX Coordinator, Student Conduct Office). Ask specific questions about prior incidents involving the same organization and what the school did in response. Do NOT sign any university-provided documents without legal review.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child suffers significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing the incident or attempting a cover-up, it’s time to consult with an experienced hazing attorney. We can help you navigate these complex situations.

For Students / Pledges

If you are a student from Donley County experiencing hazing, or fear you might be, remember that your safety and well-being come first.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself: Am I being pressured to do something I genuinely don’t want to do? Would I do this if my safety wasn’t at risk? Does this activity endanger my physical or mental health? Would my parents or the university approve if they knew? Am I being told to keep this a secret from outsiders? If you answer yes to any of these, it is likely hazing. Even if called “tradition” or “bonding,” if it causes harm, it’s hazing.

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: Despite what older members might say, your “agreement” to participate under pressure, fear of exclusion, or the desire to belong is often not true legal consent. Texas law specifically states that consent is not a defense to hazing charges. The law recognizes the power dynamics and coercion inherent in these situations.

• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave any activity or organization that is harming you. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If you wish to de-pledge, it’s wise to inform someone outside the organization first (a trusted friend, RA, or parent). You can send an email to the chapter president stating you are resigning; do not go to a “final meeting” where you could face pressure or retaliation. You can report hazing anonymously through university hotlines or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE).

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and Texas law provide amnesty or immunity for students who call for help in an emergency, even if minor offenses like underage drinking were involved. Your priority should always be your safety and the safety of others.

For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were once part of a hazing incident, or witnessed it, and now feel guilt or fear potential consequences, understand that your actions now can prevent future harm.

• Your Role in Accountability: Your testimony and any evidence you possess can be crucial in preventing future tragedies and holding wrongdoers accountable. Many who participate in hazing later come to deeply regret their actions. Providing information can be a powerful step toward making amends and bringing justice.
• Seek Legal Advice: If you fear legal exposure, discuss your options confidentially with an attorney. Lawyers can help you understand your rights, potential protections, and how your cooperation might prevent others from suffering.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

For Donley County families, navigating the aftermath of hazing is stressful. It’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can severely damage a potential legal claim.

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: This looks like a cover-up, can be considered obstruction of justice, and makes proving your case nearly impossible.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content, by taking screenshots and backing up data.

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This immediately puts the organization on alert; they will lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses.
   • What to do instead: Document everything, then call a lawyer before any direct confrontation.

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms:

   • What universities do: Sometimes pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit, and early settlements are often far below the true value of the case.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university without an attorney reviewing it first.

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 will screenshot everything; inconsistencies or emotional posts can hurt your credibility; and you may waive your privacy and privilege.
   • What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer manage any public statements or media engagement.

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: This is often a tactic to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can later be used against your child or your case.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication from the organization should be directed to your attorney.

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, the statute of limitations runs out, and the university often controls the narrative to protect itself.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult a lawyer immediately. University disciplinary processes often differ greatly from achieving real accountability and compensation.

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 primarily used to minimize payouts. Adjusters are not on your side; they work for the insurance company.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline any conversation and state, “My attorney will contact you.”

For more details, Attorney911’s video, “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY), offers further essential warnings for families navigating legal claims.

Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) often invoke sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, certain intentional torts, Title IX violations, and when suing individual employees in their personal capacity. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts. If your family in Donley County is considering such action, contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. In Texas, hazing is typically a Class B misdemeanor. However, it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals, including chapter officers, can also face misdemeanor charges for failing to report hazing or for retaliating against someone who reports it.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that a person’s consent is not a defense to prosecution for hazing. Courts and juries recognize that “agreement” under intense peer pressure, fear of exclusion, and significant power imbalances is often not true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, in Texas, you have 2 years from the date of injury or death to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, special rules (tolling) might apply. Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations may destroy records. For precise guidance, it is imperative to call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. Our video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c) offers further details.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities or sororities can still be held responsible based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge of the activities, and the foreseeability of harm, even if the incident occurred at an off-campus residence or private venue. Many major hazing cases that resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments, such as the Pi Delta Psi retreat death or the Sigma Pi “unofficial” house death, occurred off-campus.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing cases settle confidentially before going to trial, and it is often possible to request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy and discretion while vigorously pursuing accountability.

Where the law is complex or depends on specific details, always consult with an attorney to review your unique facts and understand your rights.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action for Donley County Families

When your family faces the profound pain and injustice of a hazing incident, especially one involving severe injury or wrongful death, you need more than just a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who intimately understand how powerful institutions—national fraternities, universities, and their insurers—fight back, and how to effectively counteract their strategies to win.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, stands ready as your Legal Emergency Lawyers™. We are a Houston-based Texas personal injury firm with deep and proven expertise in serious injury, wrongful death, and complex institutional accountability cases. Our reach extends throughout Texas, serving families from the bustling cities to communities like Donley County and the surrounding Texas Panhandle. We understand that hazing at Texas universities can impact any family, regardless of their hometown, and we are committed to providing the same high level of expert legal representation to all Texans.

Our firm brings unique qualifications to hazing cases:

• Insurance Insider Advantage with Lupe Peña: Associate Attorney Lupe Peña previously worked as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. This invaluable experience means we know precisely how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and often undervalue) hazing claims. We understand their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and their settlement strategies, because “we know their playbook—we used to run it.” Lupe Peña’s full credentials and experience are available at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions with Ralph Manginello: Our Managing Partner, Ralph Manginello, possesses extensive federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) and was notably one of the few Texas firms involved in the massive BP Texas City explosion litigation. This background means we are not intimidated by the vast resources of national fraternities, universities, or their formidable defense teams. As Ralph often says, “We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won. We know how to fight powerful defendants.” Learn more about Ralph Manginello’s background at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death and severe injury cases, having recovered millions for families. We collaborate with expert economists, life care planners, and medical specialists to accurately value lifetime care needs for catastrophic injuries and to understand the full scope of loss in wrongful death claims. Our extensive experience in wrongful death cases is detailed at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/. “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force genuine accountability.”

• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph Manginello’s membership in the prestigious Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a distinct advantage. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation, allowing us to strategically advise victims, their families, and even potential witnesses or former members who may face dual exposure. Our firm’s criminal defense capabilities are highlighted at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.

• Investigative Depth: We pride ourselves on a comprehensive investigative approach. We utilize a network of experts—digital forensics specialists, medical professionals, economists, and psychologists—to uncover hidden evidence such as deleted group chats and social media content, subpoena national fraternity and university records, and establish the full emotional and physical toll of hazing. “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.” Our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm) features educational videos, including “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs), showing our commitment to thorough evidence collection.

We understand how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments often operate behind closed doors, and we know how to expose their negligence and deliberate indifference. We also acknowledge that facing a hazing incident is one of the hardest things a family can endure. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We focus on thorough investigation and real accountability, not just quick settlements. We also explain our fee structure clearly, as demonstrated in our video, “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc).

Call to Action for Donley County Families

If your child, whether from Donley County or any other part of Texas, has experienced hazing at any Texas campus – be it the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or another institution – we want to hear from you. Families in Donley County and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers, accountability, and the protection of justice.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to what happened without judgment, explain your legal options clearly, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family.

What to expect in your free, confidential consultation:

• We will listen to your story with empathy and understanding.
• We will review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records) to assess your initial case.
• We will explain your legal options: whether a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither, is appropriate.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the legal process.
• We will answer your questions about costs, explaining our contingency fee basis – we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; we encourage you to take the time you need to decide.
• Everything you tell us during the consultation is strictly confidential.

Reach out to us today:

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

Hablamos Español: If you prefer a consultation in Spanish, please contact Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com. Servicios legales en español están disponibles.

Reading this article does not create an attorney–client relationship. Every case is unique, and we cannot guarantee specific outcomes. An experienced attorney can review your specific facts, explain your rights under Texas law, and help you understand your options. Whether you’re in Donley County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

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