Gregg County Fraternity & Sorority Hazing Lawyers: University Hazing Injury & Wrongful Death Attorneys at Attorney911. Our Legal Emergency Lawyers™, including a Former Insurance Defense Attorney, understand fraternity insurance tactics. We offer Federal Court Experience taking on national fraternities and universities, proven by BP Explosion Litigation. With HCCLA Criminal Defense + Civil Wrongful Death Expertise and multi-million dollar results, we handle UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor hazing cases. Evidence Preservation Specialists with 25+ years experience. Hablamos Español. Free Consultation. Contingency Fee: No Win, No Fee. Call 1-888-ATTY-911.

A vibrant community in East Texas, Gregg County is a place where families thrive, careers are built, and the rhythms of Texas life resonate deeply. In our homes and communities across Gregg County, including Longview, Kilgore, and Gladewater, we raise our children with dreams of bright futures, often including the pursuit of higher education. Many young people from Gregg County, and neighboring Rusk, Upshur, and Harrison counties, head off to universities across Texas, including the notable institutions like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University. We trust these institutions to provide not just academic excellence, but also safe environments where our students can grow, learn, and experience a rich collegiate life.

Yet, a dark undercurrent can disrupt these hopes: hazing. Imagine a scenario unfolding on a Friday night in a town miles from Gregg County, at an off-campus house near a Texas university campus. It’s “pledge night” or “initiation,” and a new student, eager to belong, is being pressured by older members of a fraternity, sorority, or club. The air is thick with anticipation and alcohol. The student is told to consume an entire bottle of hard liquor in a rapid “chug” during a “Big/Little” reveal. The room is filled with chanting, cell phone cameras flashing, and a palpable sense of forced camaraderie. Our student, perhaps from Longview or one of the smaller towns in Gregg County, feels trapped between a fierce desire to fit in and a growing sense of alarm.

As the night wears on, the pressure mounts. The student eventually collapses, losing consciousness. Panic erupts among some, but others insist on waiting, echoing the dangerous refrain: “Don’t call 911, we’ll get expelled, the chapter will be shut down.” Precious minutes turn into hours. By the time medical help is finally sought, it may be too late.

This isn’t a fictional tale designed to frighten, but a composite of far too many real incidents that have devastatingly impacted families across Texas and the nation. This could happen to a student from Gregg County. This comprehensive guide is written for families like yours across Gregg County and throughout Texas who need to understand:

• What hazing looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes.
• How Texas and federal law address hazing, providing a framework for accountability.
• The critical lessons from major national hazing cases and their relevance to Texas families.
• The concerning patterns and responses at key Texas universities: the University of Houston, Texas A&M, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University, as well as other institutions where Gregg County students may enroll.
• The legal options and pathways to justice available to victims and their families in Gregg County and across the state.

While this article offers general information, it is not specific legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC stands ready to evaluate individual cases based on their unique facts. We serve families throughout Texas, including those in Gregg County and its vibrant communities like Longview and Kilgore.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

• Call 911 for medical emergencies, without hesitation.
• 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 for your child immediately, prioritizing their health and safety above all else, even if they insist they are “fine.”
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it can be deleted or destroyed:
  • Screenshot all group chats, text messages, and direct messages (DMs) immediately.
  • Photograph any visible injuries from multiple angles and at different times.
  • Save physical items involved, such as stained clothing, unusual receipts, or any objects used in the hazing.
• Write down everything you or your child remembers while the details are fresh: who was involved, what happened, when it occurred, and where.
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly.
  • Sign anything presented by the university administration or an insurance company without legal counsel.
  • Post any details on public social media platforms.
  • Allow your child to delete messages or “clean up” any evidence.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears rapidly – group chats are deleted, physical items are discarded, and witnesses may be coached.
• Universities often move quickly to manage the narrative and conduct internal investigations.
• We can help preserve critical evidence and protect your child’s rights from the outset.
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Gregg County families, understanding hazing means moving beyond outdated perceptions of harmless pranks or simple rites of passage. Modern hazing is often insidious, psychologically damaging, and can escalate rapidly into physically dangerous or even fatal situations. It’s far more complex than just “a dumb prank” or “just partying.”

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether on or off campus, performed by one person or with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students. Crucially, this act must endanger the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or substantially affect their mental well-being.

It’s vital to emphasize that if a student says “I agreed to it” or “I consented,” this does not automatically make the activity safe or legal. In environments characterized by peer pressure, power imbalances, and intense desire for acceptance, true consent is often absent. The law recognizes this dynamic and focuses on the coercive nature of the acts themselves.

Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing practices have evolved, becoming more sophisticated and often moving underground. We see several main categories of hazing tactics today:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most dangerous forms. It includes forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, participation in chugging challenges, “lineups” where pledges consume drinks rapidly, and games designed to promote intoxication. It may also involve pressure to consume unknown substances or illicit drugs. Such activities are often directly linked to serious injuries and deaths.

• Physical Hazing: While some physical hazing has become more disguised, direct physical abuse still occurs. This includes paddling, beatings, forced calisthenics or “workouts” that go far beyond healthy conditioning, and extreme sleep or food/water deprivation. Students may be exposed to extreme cold or heat, or forced into dangerous environments. These acts are intended to degrade and physically exhaust.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This category involves deeply personal and psychologically damaging acts. It can include forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (like “roasted pig” positions), wearing degrading costumes, or participating in acts with racist, homophobic, or sexist overtones. Such hazing strips individuals of dignity and can cause lasting trauma.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but profoundly impactful, psychological hazing involves verbal abuse, threats, and intentional social isolation. It can include manipulative tactics, forced “confessions” or self-degradation, and public shaming campaigns on social media or during group meetings. The goal is often to break down individuals and enforce conformity through mental anguish.

• Digital/Online Hazing: With the prevalence of technology, hazing has moved into the digital realm. This includes the use of group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Snapchat, Discord) for dares, “challenges,” and online public humiliation. Students may be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to engage in online harassment campaigns. Constant demands through group chats can also lead to severe sleep deprivation.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is not confined to stereotypical “frat boy” antics; it permeates a wide array of campus organizations across Texas universities, including the schools where students from Gregg County and East Texas often enroll.

• Fraternities and Sororities: This is the most commonly recognized context for hazing, spanning Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek-letter organizations.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Organizations with hierarchical structures and intense traditions, such as the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets, can also be environments where hazing occurs, often disguised as “training” or “discipline.”
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs: Groups like university cheerleading teams, dance teams, or long-standing tradition organizations (e.g., Texas Cowboys-type groups at UT) have histories of hazing.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball and track, hazing can be found in college athletic programs. These incidents are often related to team “bonding” rituals that go dangerously wrong.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous academic or performance-based groups, like university marching bands or drama clubs, can be venues for hazing.
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Hazing can exist even in groups focused on positive community impact, as the allure of belonging and tradition can override good judgment.

Social status, tradition, and a deep-seated culture of secrecy are powerful forces that allow these dangerous practices to persist, even when participants are fully aware that hazing is illegal and explicitly prohibited by university policies. This complex environment makes it extremely challenging for students to report incidents and for parents to intervene effectively without proper legal guidance.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Gregg County and across the state, understanding the legal landscape of hazing in Texas is crucial. Both criminal charges and civil lawsuits can arise from hazing incidents, often acting independently or in conjunction to seek justice and accountability.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions embedded in the Texas Education Code, particularly Chapter 37, Subchapter F. Texas law, which governs cases in Gregg County and throughout the state, defines hazing broadly as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, administered on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students. Crucially, this act must endanger the physical health or safety or substantially affect the mental health or safety of a student.

In plain terms, if someone forces, coerces, or pressures a student to perform an act that is dangerous, harmful, or degrading—whether physically or mentally—to join or maintain membership in a group, and they did so intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly, then that’s hazing under Texas law. This includes acts like beatings, forced extreme exercise, coerced consumption of alcohol or drugs, or extreme humiliation that causes significant distress.

• Criminal penalties: Individuals who engage in hazing can face criminal charges ranging from a Class B Misdemeanor (punishable by up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,000) for general hazing. This can escalate to a Class A Misdemeanor if the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical attention. Most severely, if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it can be prosecuted as a State Jail Felony and carry a penalty of up to two years in a state jail facility. Additionally, individuals who are aware of hazing and fail to report it can face misdemeanor charges, and retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.
• Reporter protections: Texas law encourages reporting by providing limited immunity to individuals who, in good faith, report a hazing incident to university officials or law enforcement. This means that if a person reports a hazing incident, they are immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from that report. Furthermore, many university policies and Texas law provide amnesty for students who call 911 or seek medical help in good faith during an emergency, even if they were drinking underage or were themselves involved in the hazing.

It is important to remember that this is a summary. The actual Texas Education Code sections (e.g., § 37.151, § 37.152) contain more technical and precise language.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, two distinct legal pathways often emerge:

• Criminal cases: These are brought by the state (through a prosecutor) against individuals who are alleged to have violated criminal statutes. The primary aim of criminal cases is to punish the accused, which can include incarceration, fines, and probation. In hazing contexts, criminal charges can range from hazing offenses themselves to more serious crimes like furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or even manslaughter or negligent homicide in cases resulting in death.
• Civil cases: These are initiated by victims or their surviving family members to seek monetary compensation for the harms they have suffered and to hold responsible parties accountable. Civil lawsuits stemming from hazing often focus on theories of negligence (failing to act with reasonable care), gross negligence (extreme or reckless disregard for the safety of others), wrongful death, negligent hiring or supervision (for institutions), and premises liability (for property owners). A victim can also seek damages for intentional infliction of emotional distress, assault, or battery.

It is crucial to understand that criminal and civil cases can proceed concurrently. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for pursuing a civil lawsuit, and victims can seek justice and compensation through civil channels even if criminal charges are not filed or do not result in a conviction.

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

Beyond state laws, federal regulations and statutes also provide a framework for addressing hazing on college campuses:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal legislation, which is being phased in with public reporting requirements by 2026, requires colleges and universities that receive federal funding to be more transparent about hazing incidents. Institutions must publicly report hazing violations and the disciplinary actions taken, as well as strengthen their hazing education and prevention programs. This act aims to provide families with more information when choosing a school and to hold institutions accountable.
• Title IX / Clery Act: When hazing involves elements of sex discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual assault (e.g., sexualized hazing, forced nudity), Title IX obligations are triggered. This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in education and requires institutions to respond promptly and equitably to such incidents. The Clery Act requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. Hazing incidents, particularly those involving assaults, alcohol/drug violations, or deaths, often overlap with Clery reporting requirements, compelling institutions to include these statistics in their annual safety reports.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining liability in a hazing lawsuit is complex, and The Manginello Law Firm recognizes that multiple parties can be held accountable for the harm inflicted.

• Individual students: The students directly involved in planning, initiating, carrying out, or covering up the hazing acts can be held personally liable. This includes those who supplied alcohol, coerced participation, or inflicted harm. In some cases, individual fraternity officers have faced massive personal liability, such as the $6.5 million ordered for Daylen Dunson, a Pi Kappa Alpha president, in the Stone Foltz case.
• Local chapter / organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, or student organization itself can be named as a defendant, especially if it operates as a recognized legal entity. This includes leadership individuals such as chapter officers or “pledge educators” who orchestrated or permitted the hazing.
• National fraternity/sorority: The national headquarters of Greek-letter organizations often have substantial assets, policies, and supervisory responsibilities over their local chapters. They can be held liable if there’s evidence that they knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing, failed to enforce their own anti-hazing policies, or showed deliberate indifference to previous warnings or incidents. The $7 million paid by Pi Kappa Alpha national in the Stone Foltz settlement highlights this.
• University or governing board: Colleges and universities can be held liable under theories of negligence, gross negligence, or when they fail to meet specific duties like those under Title IX or the Clery Act. Key factors include whether the university had prior warnings about hazing, how it enforced its policies, and whether it showed deliberate indifference to student safety. Public universities (like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and the University of Texas) may assert sovereign immunity, but exceptions often exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, or specific federal claims. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) typically do not benefit from sovereign immunity.
• Third parties: Other entities may bear responsibility, including landlords or property owners of off-campus houses or event venues where hazing occurred. This can include liability for failing to provide a safe environment or for knowingly permitting illegal activities. Bars or alcohol providers may also face liability under dram shop laws if they illegally served alcohol to minors or visibly intoxicated individuals, contributing to the hazing incident. Security companies or event organizers may also be held liable for their negligence.

Every hazing case is fact-specific, and the precise parties against whom a claim can be brought will depend on the unique circumstances and the evidence uncovered during investigation.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragic stories of hazing victims across the United States reveal chillingly consistent patterns. These national cases are not isolated incidents; they serve as critical precedents, shaping responses from universities and fraternities, influencing legislation, and underscoring the immense financial and emotional stakes. For families in Gregg County and throughout Texas, understanding these patterns helps illuminate the legal landscape and the potential for accountability in local cases.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most common and deadly form of hazing involves forced or coerced alcohol consumption, leading to a disturbing pattern of alcohol poisoning deaths.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died after a “bid acceptance” event where he was forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol. Fraternity security cameras captured his severe falls and subsequent injuries. Crucially, fraternity members delayed calling 911 for nearly 12 hours, a cover-up attempt that ultimately led to tragic consequences. This case resulted in dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the passing of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, a landmark piece of legislation. It starkly revealed how extreme intoxication, delayed medical intervention, and a pervasive culture of silence can converge with devastating legal consequences for individuals and institutions.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. He was allegedly given a handle of liquor and consumed it to dangerous levels. This incident led to criminal hazing charges against multiple fraternity members and prompted Florida State University to temporarily suspend all Greek life, eventually leading to a complete overhaul of its Greek policies. Coffey’s death highlighted how seemingly ritualized “traditions” involving forced drinking are a repeated script for tragedy.
• Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, a pledge at LSU, died from alcohol toxicity with a blood alcohol content of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game. Pledges were forced to drink heavily if they answered trivia questions incorrectly. Gruver’s death led directly to the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, which made certain hazing acts a felony, increasing the legal severity and demonstrating how public outrage following clear proofs of hazing can drive significant legislative change.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, a new member, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” pledge night. This case resulted in multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members involved, and Bowling Green State University, a public institution, agreed to nearly a $3 million settlement with the family. The Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and other individuals also settled for millions, bringing the total compensation to $10 million. The Foltz case underscored that universities, even public ones, face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities when hazing occurs. It further illustrated that dangerous “Big/Little” alcohol hazing was a known pattern for Pi Kappa Alpha nationals.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized hazing methods continue to cause severe injury and death, often designed to maximize humiliation and subservience.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng was a pledge at Pi Delta Psi when he was subjected to a brutal blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at an off-campus retreat in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. He was forced to wear a heavy backpack and was repeatedly tackled. He suffered a fatal traumatic brain injury, and help was significantly delayed by fraternity members. This incident led to multiple criminal convictions, and the Pi Delta Psi national fraternity was banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years and found criminally liable. The Deng case demonstrated that off-campus “retreats” are not immune from legal scrutiny and can be as dangerous or even more dangerous than on-campus incidents, with national organizations bearing significant responsibility.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it is also a pervasive problem within athletic programs, where “team bonding” can devolve into dangerous abuse.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): Former football players at Northwestern alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. This scandal rocked the university, leading to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern and its coaching staff, and the eventual firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit confidentially. This series of events fundamentally challenged the perception that hazing is limited to Greek life, revealing it as a deep-seated issue within major, high-profile athletic programs and raising critical questions about institutional oversight and accountability.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national hazing tragedies, while occurring at various universities across the country, share common threads: forced intoxication, humiliation, physical violence, deliberate delays in calling for medical assistance, and systematic attempts at cover-ups. They highlight a disturbing pattern where true accountability and widespread reforms often only follow after a catastrophic injury or death, spurred by victim advocacy and tenacious litigation.

For families in Gregg County, whether their children attend the University of Houston, Texas A&M, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, Baylor, or any other Texas institution, these national lessons are profoundly relevant. The legal landscape in which Texas families operate—and the strategies for successfully pursuing justice—are directly shaped by the outcomes and precedents established in these landmark cases.

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

For Gregg County families, understanding the specific contexts of hazing at major Texas universities is paramount. Many students from Longview, Kilgore, Gladewater, and other communities in Gregg County pursue higher education at these institutions. While we represent clients from across the state, our Houston firm is well-positioned to serve families across East Texas, including Gregg County, for incidents that might occur at any of these university campuses. While Houston is our home base, we serve families across the state.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant public institution just a short drive from communities throughout East Texas, including Gregg County, attracts a diverse student body from across the state. Gregg County families often send their children to UH for its strong academic programs and urban opportunities.

5.1.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Houston is a large, public, urban research university with a dynamic blend of commuter and residential students. It boasts a thriving Greek life scene with a wide array of fraternities and sororities, including those governed by the Panhellenic Council, Interfraternity Council, Multicultural Greek Council, and National Pan-Hellenic Council. Beyond Greek life, UH offers numerous student organizations, cultural groups, and competitive sports clubs, all of which represent potential environments for hazing.

5.1.2 Hazing policy & reporting

The University of Houston has a clear, no-tolerance hazing policy, which echoes Texas state law. UH’s policies prohibit hazing whether it occurs on-campus or off-campus. This includes any acts that endanger mental or physical health or safety. Specifically, UH’s policy condemns forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and acts that cause mental distress as part of initiation or affiliation. UH provides various reporting channels, including the Dean of Students office, the Student Conduct office, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). Some disciplinary information is posted publicly through UH’s official channels.

5.1.3 Example incident & response

In 2016, the UH chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha faced significant scrutiny after pledges were 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. This incident led to misdemeanor hazing charges and prompted the university to suspend the chapter permanently. While details on other specific incidents can sometimes be less public than at other institutions, UH’s disciplinary records indicate ongoing addressal of Greek life behavior where “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” involving alcohol misuse and other policy violations that have led to various suspensions and probations. This demonstrates UH’s resolve to suspend or discipline chapters when serious violations are confirmed, but also highlights the ongoing challenge of enforcement.

5.1.4 How a UH hazing case might proceed

Hazing incidents at the University of Houston, particularly those occurring within Houston or Harris County, involve various agencies. If the incident happens on campus, the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) would likely lead the initial investigation. For off-campus events in the City of Houston, the Houston Police Department (HPD) would have jurisdiction. For felony-level hazing, the Harris County District Attorney’s office would handle criminal prosecution. Civil lawsuits stemming from UH hazing incidents would typically be filed in state district courts in Harris County, an area served by our firm. Potential defendants 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 incident occurred at an off-campus house where our Gregg County students might be visiting.

5.1.5 What UH students & parents should do

For Gregg County students attending UH and their families:

• Report Strategically: Familiarize yourself with UH’s reporting channels, including the Dean of Students office, the Student Conduct office, and UHPD. Understand that reporting can be done anonymously if necessary. Our firm, Attorney911, can help guide how and when to report to maximize impact while protecting your child.
• Document Everything: Maintain meticulous records of any communications from the university, notes about incidents, and any evidence you or your child might gather. This includes screenshots of messages, photos of injuries, or social media posts.
• Preserve Prior Complaints: If you or your child have prior knowledge of hazing within a specific organization, or if you can locate any public disciplinary records, preserve this information. It can be crucial in demonstrating a pattern of behavior.
• Seek Houston-Based Legal Counsel: Talking to a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases can provide a critical advantage. Our firm understands the local legal landscape, the courts, and how to effectively uncover prior complaints, campus discipline, and internal files that may not be readily available to the public.
• Prioritize Safety First: If your child is in immediate danger, call 911. Then, contact Attorney911 (1-888-ATTY-911) for immediate legal guidance to navigate the aftermath and protect their rights effectively.

5.2 Texas A&M University

A deeply traditional public university and a cornerstone of Texas identity, Texas A&M University, though a few hours’ drive from Gregg County, attracts a significant number of students from East Texas. The Aggie family spirit is strong in communities like Longview and Kilgore, with many graduates and supporters residing in Gregg County.

5.2.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Texas A&M University in College Station is renowned for its rich traditions, strong alumni network, and, notably, its storied Corps of Cadets—a highly structured, military-style environment that deeply influences campus culture. Beyond the Corps, A&M boasts a substantial Greek life presence with numerous fraternities and sororities, as well as countless student organizations and robust athletic programs. This combination of tradition, organizational structure, and intense loyalty can create unique dynamics, occasionally contributing to a culture where hazing, often cloaked as “tradition” or “discipline,” can take root.

5.2.2 Hazing policy & reporting

Texas A&M maintains a strict, university-wide anti-hazing policy that applies to all student organizations, including Greek life, the Corps of Cadets, and athletic teams. The policy prohibits any act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. Reporting channels are available through the Student Conduct Office, the Dean of Students, the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD), and specific reporting mechanisms for the Corps of Cadets. A&M has publicly stated its commitment to addressing hazing.

5.2.3 Selected documented incidents & response

Texas A&M has experienced notable incidents of hazing across different types of organizations. The Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity faced a lawsuit around 2021 after pledges alleged severe hazing that involved being covered in industrial-strength cleaner, spit, and raw eggs. This resulted in two pledges suffering severe chemical burns that required emergency skin graft surgeries. The fraternity chapter was suspended by the university, and the pledges pursued a civil lawsuit. More recently, in 2023, a lawsuit was filed involving the Corps of Cadets where a cadet alleged degrading hazing, including simulated sexual acts and being tied up in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, and while A&M stated it handled the matter internally, it highlighted the challenges of hazing within institutionally sanctioned programs. Additionally, reports of hazing resulting in rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown from extreme physical activity) within chapters like Kappa Sigma at Texas A&M have led to ongoing litigation. These incidents demonstrate that hazing at A&M can manifest within both Greek life and highly structured, traditional organizations like the Corps, often leading to severe physical harm.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases originating from Texas A&M University in College Station would typically fall under the jurisdiction of Brazos County courts. Criminal investigations might be conducted by the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD) or the College Station Police Department, with larger cases handled by the Brazos County District Attorney’s office. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Brazos County district courts. Due to its status as a public university, Texas A&M itself may invoke sovereign immunity, but as detailed earlier, exceptions exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, or specific federal claims (e.g., Title IX). Individual hazers, the local chapter, the national organization, and potentially university employees acting outside the scope of their duties or with gross negligence, could all be named as defendants.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M students & parents should do

For Gregg County students attending Texas A&M and their families:

• Understand the Policies: Carefully review Texas A&M’s specific hazing policies for Greek life, the Corps of Cadets, and general student organizations.
• Document Any Concerns: If you observe or suspect hazing, document everything: dates, times, specific actions, names of individuals involved, and any physical or emotional toll. Screenshots of group chats (GroupMe is common at A&M), photos, and videos are invaluable.
• Report Wisely: Utilize A&M’s reporting channels through Student Conduct, the Dean of Students, or TAMUPD. If the hazing involves the Corps, there are specific command structures and reporting protocols to navigate. Our firm can help strategically advise on the best reporting path.
• Prioritize Medical Care: Do not delay medical attention for any injuries, even if seemingly minor. Ensure that the medical provider notes the context of the injury if related to hazing.
• Seek Legal Advice Promptly: Contact an attorney experienced in Texas hazing law immediately. Evidence can be lost quickly, especially in fraternities and Corps units prone to internal “honor codes” or cover-ups. Our firm’s background, including complex litigation, makes us particularly well-suited to handle cases against large institutions like A&M.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

As the flagship public university, the University of Texas at Austin draws a significant number of bright students from across Texas, including many from Gregg County and the East Texas region. Families in Longview and other Gregg County communities often consider UT Austin a top educational destination.

5.3.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin is a massive land-grant institution known for its vibrant campus life, fiercely competitive academics, and sprawling Greek system. With over 60 fraternity and sorority chapters, numerous student organizations covering every interest imaginable, and prominent athletic programs, UT is a microcosmic city. Its culture embraces traditions and strong sense of community, yet these same elements can, at times, foster environments where hazing is perpetuated under the guise of “earning” one’s place within a group.

5.3.2 Hazing policy & reporting

The University of Texas at Austin maintains a stringent anti-hazing policy applicable to all registered student organizations, athletic teams, and university-sponsored groups. UT’s policy aligns with Texas law, broadly prohibiting any act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of membership or affiliation. UT is notably transparent, publishing a comprehensive Hazing Violations page (often found at hazing.utexas.edu) that lists organizations, dates of alleged incidents, conduct violations, and disciplinary actions taken. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students office, the Title IX Office (if sexual misconduct is involved), and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).

5.3.3 Selected documented incidents & response

UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations page often provides real-time examples of ongoing issues. For instance, in 2023, Pi Kappa Alpha (a fraternity with a national history of hazing) was disciplined after new members were directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, actions deemed hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education. Other organizations, such as the Texas Wranglers (a well-known spirit organization), have faced sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, degradation, and punishment-based practices. Even some academic or service groups have appeared on this list for similar violations. This level of transparency, while commendable, underscores the persistent nature of hazing at UT and shows that students from Gregg County and elsewhere can be exposed to these dangers across a wide range of campus groups.

5.3.4 How a UT Hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases arising from the University of Texas at Austin typically involve the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) for on-campus incidents or the Austin Police Department (APD) for off-campus events within the city. Criminal prosecutions would be handled by the Travis County District Attorney’s office. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Travis County district courts. As a public university, UT Austin may invoke sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist, particularly when gross negligence or federal statutes like Title IX are involved. UT’s public record of prior violations can be a powerful tool for civil plaintiffs, as it helps demonstrate a pattern of misconduct and the university’s knowledge of ongoing issues within specific organizations, which is crucial for proving foreseeability and negligence.

5.3.5 What UT students & parents should do

For Gregg County students attending UT Austin and their families:

• Check the UT Hazing Violations Page: Before joining any organization, review the university’s public hazing report at hazing.utexas.edu for any past disciplinary actions against specific groups.
• Understand Reporting: Be aware of how and where to report hazing to the Dean of Students or UTPD. The university has anonymous reporting options available.
• Document Diligently: Keep detailed records of any suspicious activities, communications, or personal experiences. The more information you gather, the stronger your position for a potential case.
• Preserve Evidence: Ensure all digital communications (like GroupMe chats common among UT students) and any photographic or video evidence are immediately preserved.
• Consult Legal Counsel: If you witness or experience hazing, especially incidents involving injury or severe emotional distress, contact an attorney experienced in Texas hazing law immediately. Our firm can help you navigate the unique challenges of pursuing a case at UT, leveraging public records and private discovery to build a strong claim.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a prestigious private university in Dallas, is another institution where students from Gregg County and East Texas often seek higher education. Its strong academic reputation and vibrant campus life, including a prominent Greek system, attract a diverse student body.

5.4.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas is known for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and a generally affluent student body. It has a significant and active Greek life, comprising a large percentage of its undergraduate population. SMU’s campus culture, while academic, also places a strong emphasis on social life and extracurricular involvement. The competitive nature of Greek recruitment and the close-knit social scene can, at times, foster dynamics where hazing rituals, intended to create intense bonds, can inadvertently or intentionally cross the line into dangerous territory.

5.4.2 Hazing policy & reporting

SMU has a comprehensive anti-hazing policy that strictly prohibits any hazing conduct, whether it occurs on or off campus, or through any communication method. The policy covers acts that endanger physical or mental health, cause humiliation, or are tied to initiation or membership. SMU offers several reporting mechanisms, including the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the SMU Police Department. The university promotes anonymous reporting through systems like Real Response to encourage students to come forward without fear of retaliation.

5.4.3 Selected documented incidents & response

SMU has had its share of hazing incidents, demonstrating that even private institutions with robust policies are not immune. In 2017, the Kappa Alpha Order chapter at SMU faced allegations of severe hazing, including reports of new members being paddled, forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol, and sleep-deprived. The university launched an investigation, which ultimately led to the chapter’s suspension and the imposition of strict restrictions on its recruiting activities for several years. While SMU, as a private institution, may not have the same public disclosure requirements as state universities, these incidents become known through internal investigations, student reports, and sometimes through media coverage, highlighting areas of concern within its Greek system.

5.4.4 How an SMU hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases at Southern Methodist University in Dallas would typically fall under the jurisdiction of Dallas County courts. Criminal investigations could be conducted by the SMU Police Department or the Dallas Police Department, with cases handled by the Dallas County District Attorney’s office. Civil lawsuits against individuals, the local chapter, the national organization, and SMU itself would be filed in Dallas County district courts. As a private university, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially more straightforward to pursue claims against the institution directly compared to public universities. This also means that internal records, which might be less publicly accessible, can be compelled through the civil discovery process, revealing critical information about the university’s knowledge, policies, and prior responses to hazing.

5.4.5 What SMU students & parents should do

For Gregg County students attending SMU and their families:

• Engage with SMU Resources: Utilize SMU’s reporting mechanisms, including the Dean of Students office and anonymous systems like Real Response, if you or your child suspect hazing.
• Review Policies: Understand SMU’s hazing policy, which clearly outlines prohibited behaviors and the university’s expectations.
• Document Thoroughly: As with any hazing incident, detailed documentation is crucial. This includes digital evidence (group chats, social media posts), medical records, and personal journals or notes.
• Consider Legal Consultation Early: Given that SMU is a private institution, the legal approach to building a case may differ from that against public universities. Consulting an attorney experienced in hazing law early can help navigate these differences and ensure that your rights are protected without delay. Our firm is adept at navigating the legal landscape in Dallas County and can help uncover detailed information, even when specific incidents are not publicly disseminated.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Baptist university in Waco, holds a special place for many families across Texas, including those in Gregg County who value its Christian mission and strong academic programs. It’s another key institution where East Texas students may choose to pursue their education.

5.5.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Baylor University is the largest Baptist university in the world, fostering a distinct campus culture rooted in its Christian mission. Located in Waco, a short drive from Gregg County, it prides itself on a personalized educational experience within a close-knit community. Baylor has active Greek life and a passionate athletic program, especially its highly successful football and basketball teams. While known for a rigorous and supportive environment, Baylor has also faced significant scrutiny in the past regarding its institutional oversight, particularly concerning sexual assault and Title IX compliance. This history creates a sensitive context for any allegations of misconduct, including hazing, as the university is under increased pressure to ensure student safety and accountability across all student organizations.

5.5.2 Hazing policy & reporting

Baylor University maintains a strict anti-hazing policy that is explicitly outlined in its student conduct code. This policy prohibits any hazing activity, regardless of location (on or off campus), that impacts the mental or physical health and safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or membership. Baylor encourages reporting suspected hazing through its Student Conduct Office, Campus Police, and anonymous reporting hotlines. The university has reiterated a “zero tolerance” stance on hazing, especially given its past institutional challenges.

5.5.3 Selected documented incidents & response

Baylor University, despite its stated “zero tolerance” policy, has faced its own challenges with hazing. In 2020, the Baylor baseball program was embroiled in a hazing investigation that resulted in the suspension of 14 players. The suspensions were staggered to minimize the impact on the team’s season, which drew criticism from some who felt it minimized the severity of the hazing itself. This incident, while not tied to Greek life, falls within a broader history of scrutiny over Baylor’s handling of student conduct issues, particularly in high-profile areas like athletics. It reinforces that hazing occurs across various campus organizations and that institutional responses can be complex and sometimes controversial.

5.5.4 How a Baylor hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases at Baylor University in Waco would typically be adjudicated in McLennan County courts. Criminal investigations could involve the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) or the Waco Police Department, with prosecutions handled by the McLennan County District Attorney’s office. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in McLennan County district courts. Like SMU, Baylor is a private university and therefore does not hold sovereign immunity, similar to public institutions. This means that pursuing claims directly against Baylor University for negligence or other institutional failures can be more straightforward. Given Baylor’s history of investigations into institutional oversight, particularly regarding student safety, civil litigation often focuses on whether the university adequately enforced its policies, responded to prior warnings, and created a safe environment.

5.5.5 What Baylor students & parents should do

For Gregg County students attending Baylor and their families:

• Be Diligent: Familiarize yourself with Baylor’s anti-hazing policy and the specific reporting mechanisms available through Baylor’s Student Conduct Office and Campus Police.
• Record Everything: Maintain detailed records of any concerning incidents, communications, or changes in your child’s behavior. Digital evidence, such as messages from GroupMe or other platforms, is critical.
• Prioritize Well-being and Medical Care: If your child is injured or showing signs of severe distress, seek immediate medical and psychological care. Ensure providers are aware of the context of hazing during treatment.
• Review the University’s History: Be aware of Baylor’s past challenges regarding institutional oversight and how that might inform their current responses to hazing allegations.
• Seek Prompt Legal Counsel: Given the sensitive nature of hazing and Baylor’s prior scrutiny, consulting with an attorney experienced in Texas hazing law is highly advisable. Our firm can help navigate the complexities of advocating for victims at a private institution, ensuring that all avenues for accountability and compensation are thoroughly explored.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

For families in Gregg County and across Texas, understanding the role of fraternities and sororities in hazing extends beyond individual campus incidents. Most Greek-letter organizations at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor are chapters of national or international organizations. These national entities, despite their stated anti-hazing policies, often carry a heavy and problematic history of hazing incidents that can have profound implications for current lawsuits.

Why National Histories Matter

The reality is that many fraternities and sororities active on Texas campuses—including prominent names like Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike), Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE), Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi, and Kappa Alpha Order—are part of larger national organizations. These national headquarters typically:

• Possess extensive anti-hazing manuals and elaborate risk management policies. These policies are often developed precisely because these organizations have experienced prior hazing deaths, catastrophic injuries, or significant lawsuits across the country. They know the potential devastating consequences.
• Are intimately familiar with common hazing patterns. This includes knowledge of specific “traditions” that involve forced drinking nights, ritualistic paddling, humiliating acts, or extreme physical exertion, regardless of when or where they occurred.

When a local chapter in Texas, say at the University of Houston or Texas A&M, repeats the very same hazing scripts that have caused injuries, resulted in expulsions, or led to multi-million-dollar lawsuits for other chapters in different states, it establishes a crucial legal concept: foreseeability. This pattern evidence can strong support claims of negligence against national entities, demonstrating that they had prior knowledge of the dangers but failed to take adequate preventive or enforcement measures.

Organization Mapping

While a full list of every chapter with a hazing history is beyond the scope of this guide, we can highlight major national fraternities and sororities found at our focus universities and their known patterns of hazing, which can become part of a legal strategy.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): Active at many Texas campuses including UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor. Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha has a deeply troubling history with alcohol-related hazing. The tragic Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green State University in 2021, where a pledge died of alcohol poisoning during a “Big/Little” reveal event, is a stark example. This incident, which resulted in a $10 million settlement and criminal convictions, established a pattern that can be used in civil cases. Another significant case involved David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University (2012), who died from alcohol poisoning at a Pi Kappa Alpha event, leading to a $14 million settlement. These cases underscore the national organization’s long-standing awareness of the dangers of their chapters’ alcohol rituals.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU. SAE has faced widespread criticism and numerous lawsuits for hazing-related injuries and deaths. In 2014, recognizing a pattern of fatalities, SAE national famously announced it would eliminate its pledging process. Yet, incidents persist. Examples include a lawsuit filed in 2023 alleging a pledge suffered a traumatic brain injury during hazing at the University of Alabama. In 2021, at Texas A&M University, two pledges alleged they were forced to endure a ritual where industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit were poured on them, causing severe chemical burns that required skin grafts; this led to a $1 million lawsuit. More recently, the UT chapter faced a lawsuit in January 2024 after an Australian exchange student alleged assault at a party, sustaining severe injuries including a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, and a fractured tibia. Such incidents demonstrate a persistent pattern of severe hazing despite national efforts.
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Found at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor. The organization is tragically linked to the death of Max Gruver at LSU in 2017. Gruver died from acute alcohol toxicity after a “Bible study” drinking game, which led to multiple criminal charges, the closing of the chapter, and the passage of the Max Gruver Act (making hazing a felony) in Louisiana. This national pattern evidence shows the high-risk nature of “drinking games” within their chapters.
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, and UT. This fraternity was involved in the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University in 2017, where he died from alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night,” emphasizing the danger of forced alcohol consumption.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Found at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor. Kappa Sigma has a national history of hazing scandals. Most notably, a jury awarded $12.6 million to the family of Chad Meredith who drowned after being encouraged by fraternity members to swim across a lake while intoxicated, leading to a law in Florida criminalizing hazing. Ongoing litigation at Texas A&M (2023) involves allegations of hazing resulting in severe cases of rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown from extreme physical activity), demonstrating a pattern of dangerously intense physical hazing.
• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI): Active at Texas A&M. This fraternity is associated with the devastating injury to Danny Santulli at the University of Missouri in 2021. Santulli suffered severe, permanent brain damage after being forced to consume excessive alcohol, leading to multi-million-dollar settlements with 22 defendants and highlighting the catastrophic consequences of alcohol hazing.
• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU. The fraternity is inextricably linked to the death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State (2017), a case that exposed a horrifying pattern of delayed medical care and cover-ups after a pledge’s fatal fall during an alcohol-fueled hazing event.
• Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ): An NPHC fraternity with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor. Nationally, Omega Psi Phi has faced numerous allegations and lawsuits related to physical hazing traditions, including severe beatings and paddling. The case of Joseph Snell in 1997, where he endured a month of brutal beatings, leading to a $375,000 verdict from the national organization, sets important legal precedent. More recently, in 2023, a federal lawsuit was filed against the Nu Eta chapter at the University of Southern Mississippi alleging “Hell Night” beatings that required emergency surgery. These incidents underscore a chronic issue of physical hazing.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

For Gregg County families pursuing justice in a hazing case, these national histories are critical. Repeated hazing patterns across different states and campuses demonstrate that certain organizations—both local chapters and their national headquarters—had ample warnings. This history forms a powerful part of a legal strategy, allowing plaintiffs to argue that these organizations:

• Were aware of the inherent dangers of specific hazing practices but failed to take meaningful action.
• Did not genuinely enforce their own anti-hazing policies, effectively rendering them “paper policies.”
• Responded to prior incidents with minimal punishment, failing to deter future misconduct.

This pattern evidence can significantly impact:

• Settlement leverage: Showing a history of dangerous behavior can pressure national organizations and their insurers to offer higher settlements to avoid trial and punitive damages.
• Insurance coverage disputes: Often, insurers try to deny coverage by claiming hazing was an “intentional act” excluded from policies. However, a pattern of “negligent supervision” by the national organization, which allowed repeated intentional acts, can still trigger coverage.
• Potential for punitive damages: In cases involving particularly egregious conduct or a long history of ignored warnings, juries may award punitive damages designed to punish and deter egregious behavior, depending on Texas state law and the specific claims.

When The Manginello Law Firm takes on a hazing case, we meticulously investigate not just the local incident, but the national history of the organization involved. This comprehensive approach is part of our strategy to hold all responsible parties—from individual hazers to powerful national fraternities and universities—fully accountable.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

For Gregg County families whose lives have been upended by hazing, the path to accountability and justice often begins with building a meticulously documented legal case. This process requires a deep understanding of evidence collection, the types of damages that can be recovered, and a strategic legal approach.

7.1 Evidence

In modern hazing cases, evidence is key, and it disappears quickly. Our firm employs cutting-edge techniques to gather and preserve critical information, combining traditional investigative skills with digital forensics. The Manginello Law Firm’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos, which are often central to these cases.

• Digital Communications: In 2025, group messaging apps are often the single most important source of evidence. Platforms like GroupMe (ubiquitous in Greek life), WhatsApp, iMessage group texts, Discord, and even Slack channels used by student organizations contain a wealth of information. This includes messages planning hazing events, explicit instructions to pledges, discussions about covering up incidents, and even photographic or video evidence shared among members. Even deleted messages can often be recovered through digital forensics, but immediate screenshots are invaluable. We actively seek out these communications to demonstrate intent, coercion, and knowledge.
• Photos & Videos: Beyond screenshots, actual photos and videos taken during hazing events are incredibly powerful. This includes content filmed by members themselves (often for “fun”), shared in group chats, or posted on private social media. Security camera footage from houses or venues, as well as doorbell camera systems, can also provide critical context.
• Internal Organization Documents: These include pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” guides, and any pre-existing “lesson plans” for new member education. Emails, texts, or social media posts from officers detailing what they “plan to do to the pledges” are also crucial. We also seek national organization policies and training materials to show contradictions between stated rules and observed behavior.
• University Records: We subpoena or request university records, including prior conduct files, records of probation or suspensions, and warnings issued to the implicated organization. Incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices, as well as Clery Act reports and other public safety disclosures, can reveal patterns of unaddressed misconduct.
• Medical and Psychological Records: Comprehensive medical documentation is essential for demonstrating physical and psychological harm. This includes emergency room reports, hospitalization records, surgical notes, and rehabilitation records. Toxicology reports can confirm alcohol or drug levels. Crucially, psychological evaluations for conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation are vital for establishing non-economic damages.
• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are irreplaceable. This includes testimony from other pledges, current members, former members (especially those who left due to hazing), roommates, Resident Assistants (RAs), coaches, trainers, or any bystander who observed relevant events. Many former members, despite initial fear, are often willing to come forward once legal action begins, motivated by a desire to prevent further harm.

7.2 Damages

When hazing severely injures or kills a student, victims and their families in Gregg County can seek compensation for a range of damages, both measurable and subjective. The goal is to provide financial relief for tangible losses and to acknowledge the profound, often lifelong, impact of the trauma.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs associated with physical injuries. It includes immediate emergency room visits, ambulance transport, hospitalization (ICU, surgery), medications, and medical equipment. For severe injuries like traumatic brain injury or organ damage, it also encompasses long-term physical, occupational, and speech therapy, psychiatric care, future surgeries, and even the cost of life care plans for permanent disabilities.
• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This category accounts for financial losses due to the hazing. It covers any wages lost if the victim, or a parent caring for them, had to miss work. It also includes the substantial impact on education, such as tuition for missed semesters, loss of academic or athletic scholarships, delayed graduation, and ultimately, a diminished future earning capacity if injuries lead to permanent disability or an inability to pursue their chosen career path.
• Non-Economic Damages: These damages compensate for the more subjective, but no less real, suffering. They include compensation for physical pain and suffering, as well as profound emotional distress, trauma, and humiliation. Victims may experience PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, loss of trust, and a significant loss of enjoyment of life, impacting their ability to participate in hobbies, social activities, or even experience college life normally.
• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the most tragic cases, where hazing leads to death, surviving family members (parents, siblings, and sometimes spouses) can recover damages. This includes funeral and burial costs, economic losses such as the projected financial support the deceased would have provided to their family, and profound non-economic losses. The latter covers the grief, sorrow, and mental anguish experienced by the family, as well as the loss of companionship, love, and society provided by the deceased.

It’s crucial to understand that while we meticulously calculate and pursue these types of damages, specific dollar amounts are uniquely tied to the facts of each case and cannot be guaranteed. Our aim is always to secure maximum compensation for our clients based on the full extent of their losses.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing litigation is often complex due to the multiple layers of potential defendants and the intricate world of insurance coverage.

• Multiple Defendants: In many hazing cases, the list of potential defendants can be extensive, encompassing individual student hazers, the local chapter itself, the national fraternity or sorority, the university, and sometimes property owners or other third parties. Each defendant may bring their own legal team, leading to a multi-faceted defense strategy.
• Insurance Coverage Fights: A significant, and often hidden, battle in hazing lawsuits involves insurance companies. National fraternities and universities carry substantial liability insurance policies. However, insurers frequently attempt to deny coverage by arguing that hazing constitutes “intentional acts” or “criminal conduct,” which are often excluded from standard policies. They may also claim that the policy does not cover certain defendants or that proper notice was not given.
• Navigating the Landscape: This is where the specialized expertise of a firm like The Manginello Law Firm becomes invaluable. Lupe Peña, with her background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), provides our clients with an insider’s perspective on how insurance companies evaluate, delay, and deny hazing claims. Our strategy involves:
  • Identifying all potential sources of insurance coverage, including individual homeowner’s policies, chapter policies, national policies, and university umbrella policies.
  • Constructing arguments that frame the claims in ways that trigger coverage, often by emphasizing the negligent supervision or deliberate indifference of institutions, rather than solely focusing on the “intentional acts” of individual hazers.
  • Aggressively challenging wrongful denials of coverage, even pursuing bad faith claims against insurers when appropriate.

This intricate dance with insurance companies is a critical component of hazing litigation. Our ability to anticipate and counter these defense tactics ensures that our clients receive the best possible chance at fair compensation, forcing accountability even when powerful institutions and their insurers attempt to avoid responsibility.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For Gregg County families, whether your child attends a university in East Texas or across the state, navigating a hazing situation can be overwhelming. These practical guides offer actionable advice for parents, students, and witnesses, empowering you with knowledge.

8.1 For Parents

Parents in Gregg County, from Longview to Kilgore, send their children to college hoping for growth and safety. If you suspect hazing, vigilance and informed action are crucial.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be aware of a cluster of these Red Flags:
  • Unexplained injuries (e.g., bruises, burns, cuts) or repeated “accidents” with inconsistent explanations.
  • Sudden, extreme fatigue or exhaustion, beyond normal academic stress, often due to sleep deprivation or late-night “mandatory” events.
  • Drastic changes in mood, such as increased anxiety, depression, irritability, or social withdrawal from non-Greek friends or family.
  • Constant secretive phone use (especially group chats), and an anxious reaction to notifications or demands for immediate response.
  • A sudden obsession with pleasing older members of the organization, or expressions of loyalty over personal well-being.
  • Speaking about “just having to get through this” or “everyone did it before me,” minimizing concerns.
  • Significant decline in academic performance or missing classes/assignments due to organizational demands.
  • Unexpected financial demands, “fines,” or coerced purchases.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach conversations with empathy, not judgment. Start with open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with the [organization]?” or “Is there anything happening that makes you uncomfortable?” Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priorities, and you will support them regardless of their choices or fears about “getting in trouble.”
• If Your Child is Hurt: Prioritize immediate medical care for any injuries, no matter how minor they seem. Inform medical providers that hazing is suspected, so it is documented. Document everything: take clear photos of injuries over several days, screenshot digital communications, and make detailed notes of what your child tells you (names, dates, locations, specific acts).
• Dealing with the University: Document every conversation with university administrators (Dean of Students, Greek Life Office, Student Conduct). Do not accept vague assurances. Ask specific questions about their prior knowledge of hazing within the implicated organization and what interventions, if any, were taken previously.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, if you feel the university or organization is minimizing the incident, or if you encounter resistance in obtaining information, contact an attorney experienced in hazing cases immediately.

8.2 For Students / Pledges

For students in Gregg County starting their college journey, navigating the pressures of joining new groups can be tricky. Understanding your rights and identifying hazing is vital for your safety.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself: Am I being coerced, pressured, or forced to do something I genuinely don’t want to do? Is it humiliating, demeaning, degrading, or potentially harmful (physically or mentally)? Would I do this if my parents, a high dean, or the general public knew exactly what was happening? If the activity is secret, hidden, or involves forced consumption of substances, sleep deprivation, or physical discomfort, it is almost certainly hazing, regardless of how it’s labeled.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: The law, particularly Texas Education Code § 37.155, explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. You cannot truly “consent” to activity that is illegal or harmful, especially when under immense peer pressure, fear of exclusion, or the power dynamics of an initiation process. Your desire to “fit in” or “earn your spot” does not make the hazing legal or justifiable.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave an organization or refuse to participate in hazing at any time. If you feel unsafe or wish to disaffiliate, tell a trusted adult outside the organization (parent, RA, professor, counselor) first. If you fear immediate danger, call 911. For reporting, use anonymous hotlines (like 1-888-NOT-HAZE) or official university channels.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools, and Texas law, have “Good Samaritan” or amnesty provisions. This means if you or someone else calls for help in an emergency (like alcohol poisoning), you will generally not be punished for underage drinking or other minor offenses associated with seeking medical aid. Report without fear.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were part of hazing, either as a participant or an observer, you might carry a heavy burden of guilt or fear. Your role in an investigation can be pivotal.

• Your Testimony Matters: Your firsthand account and evidence can be instrumental in holding perpetrators and institutions accountable, potentially preventing future harm and saving lives. Despite any personal guilt, coming forward can be a critical step toward healing and justice.
• Seek Legal Advice: If you are a former member or witness who participated in hazing, you may have legal exposure. It’s crucial to seek your own independent legal advice to understand your rights and potential liabilities. While cooperating can be an important ethical step, having your own counsel protect your interests is vital. Lawyers familiar with hazing cases can navigate your role, potentially negotiating immunity or leniency in exchange for your testimony.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For families in Gregg County navigating a hazing incident, avoiding common missteps is just as important as gathering evidence. The Manginello Law Firm’s video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) emphasizes the importance of these warnings.

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

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 can be interpreted as a cover-up, may constitute obstruction of justice, and makes proving your case nearly impossible.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even if it’s embarrassing or seems minor. Screenshots, photos, and digital communications are often the backbone of a hazing case.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Direct confrontation almost guarantees that the organization will immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach their witnesses, and construct their defenses, putting you at a severe disadvantage.
   • What to do instead: Document everything you know, then call an attorney before any confrontation.

3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms without legal review:

   • What universities do: They may pressure families to sign waivers or agree to “internal resolutions” quickly.
   • Why it’s wrong: You could unknowingly waive your right to pursue a lawsuit, and any early settlements are often far below the true value of your case.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or organization without an experienced attorney reviewing it first.

4. Posting details on public social media before talking to a lawyer:

   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Everything you post can be screenshotted by defense attorneys and used against you. Inconsistencies can damage credibility, and premature disclosure can accidentally waive legal privileges.
   • What to do instead: Document privately. Let your lawyer control public messaging once a strategy is in place.

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting” with the organization:

   • What fraternities/sororities say: “Just 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 could hurt your child’s case.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication should be directed through 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, and the statute of limitations can run out. Universities prioritize institutional reputation and often control the narrative, which may not align with seeking justice for your child.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence now, consult with an attorney immediately. The university’s internal process is typically separate from pursuing 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 often used against you, and initial settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak and say, “My attorney will contact you.”

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) often claim sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, and specific federal claims like Title IX violations. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) typically have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts – contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. While general hazing in Texas is a Class B misdemeanor, it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This means that individuals involved can face significant jail time and fines. Those who fail to report hazing can also face misdemeanor charges.

• “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. The law recognizes that true agreement is often impossible in situations involving power imbalances, severe peer pressure, and fear of social exclusion.

• “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” can sometimes extend this period if the harm or its cause was not immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical for preserving evidence and securing witness testimony. Learn about Texas statute of limitations in our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to discuss your specific timeline.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of the hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge of the activities, and the foreseeability of hazing occurring off-campus. Many major hazing cases that resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments, such as the Pi Delta Psi retreat case (Deng) and the Sigma Pi case (Wiant), occurred off-campus.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing cases, particularly civil lawsuits, are resolved through confidential settlements before going to trial. Our firm prioritizes your family’s privacy and works to ensure that sensitive details remain confidential while still achieving accountability and compensation. We can discuss strategies for seeking sealed court records and confidential settlement terms.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in Gregg County, or anywhere across Texas, faces the devastation of a hazing incident, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, we are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ with the specialized expertise to take on these complex, high-stakes cases.

From our primary office in Houston, and our additional locations in Austin and Beaumont, we proudly serve families throughout all of Texas, including our neighbors in Gregg County, Longview, Kilgore, and the surrounding East Texas region. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Gregg County and across the region, regardless of where the campus is located. Our firm brings a unique blend of qualifications to hazing litigation:

Our partner, Lupe Peña, brings an invaluable insurance insider advantage. As a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm, she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and often undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies because she used to run their playbook. This insight is critical in maximizing your compensation.

Ralph Manginello brings extensive experience in complex litigation against massive institutions. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in successfully litigating the BP Texas City explosion, a case that put him head-to-head with a billion-dollar corporation. This federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we are not intimidated by powerful national fraternities, well-resourced universities, or their aggressive defense teams. From taking on major corporations to challenging institutional negligence in hazing cases, we know how to fight and win against powerful defendants.

We have a proven track record in securing multi-million dollar outcomes in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. Hazing incidents often result in severe, life-altering injuries or tragic deaths. Our experience valuing and litigating cases involving permanent disabilities (such as traumatic brain injuries) and wrongful death comes from a deep understanding of medical, psychological, and economic factors. We work with economists to project future losses and build cases that force accountability, ensuring victims receive the compensation they deserve for a lifetime of care and suffering. We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic cases.

Furthermore, our firm possesses unique criminal + civil hazing expertise. Ralph Manginello’s distinguished membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides us with a profound understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual perspective means we can effectively advise witnesses, former members, and victims who may be facing dual criminal and civil exposure, ensuring a comprehensive legal strategy. When hazing results in criminal charges, Attorney911’s criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) means we understand both the criminal and civil tracks.

Our investigative depth is unparalleled. We deploy a vast network of experts—including medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists—to uncover every piece of evidence. This includes obtaining deleted group chats and social media content, subpoenaing national fraternity records that reveal prior incidents, and securing university files through aggressive discovery and public records requests. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos critical for building strong cases.

We empathize deeply with what you are going through. We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. For more information about our firm, including client testimonials and additional resources, visit https://attorney911.com.

Call to Action

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

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

In your free consultation, you can expect us to:

• Listen attentively to your story and the details of the hazing incident.
• Review any evidence you have already gathered (photos, texts, medical records).
• Clearly explain your legal options: pursuing a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• Discuss realistic timelines for a hazing case and what to expect throughout the process.
• Answer your questions about legal fees. We operate on a contingency fee basis – we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Watch our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
• Provide honest counsel with no pressure to hire us on the spot – take the time you need to decide.
• Assure you that everything you tell us is confidential.

Take the first step toward justice. Contact us today:

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

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

Whether you’re in the heart of Gregg County, Longview, Kilgore, 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