A chilling silence descends. It’s late, somewhere near the Texas Tech University campus, not far from where many Jones County families have their roots or send their children to study. Your child, a bright student from Jones County, is at an off-campus fraternity house, pressured by older members to participate in “initiation night.” The air is thick with a desperate, frantic energy. Names are being called, a bottle of cheap liquor shoved into their hands. They are told to drink, faster and faster, under the watchful, sneering eyes of those they desperately want to impress. Others are filming on phones, chanting, and laughing, their faces twisted into grotesque caricatures of camaraderie.
Suddenly, your child stumbles, vomits, and then collapses. Fear grips the room. Nobody wants to call 911 because they’re afraid of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.” Your child feels trapped, caught between a desperate need for acceptance and the terrifying reality of their own vulnerability. What started as an aspiration has turned into a nightmare staged an hour down the road from home.
This scenario, tragically, is not a fictional dramatization. It echoes true stories of hazing incidents that have shattered lives and devastated families right here in Texas. When such a nightmare unfolds, families in Jones County and across our great state are left grappling with shock, anger, and countless questions: What happened? Why? Who is responsible? What can we do?
What This Guide Offers Jones County Families
This comprehensive guide is designed for families in Jones County, Abilene, and the surrounding areas, as well as anyone connecting with Texas universities, who need to understand the complex realities of hazing. We will unpack:
- What hazing truly looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes to reveal the insidious, often digital, forms it takes today.
- How Texas and federal law address hazing, outlining the legal framework designed to protect students.
- Lessons from major national cases, demonstrating their profound relevance to Texas families facing similar challenges.
- Specific insights into hazing patterns and responses at our state’s leading universities: Texas Tech University, University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University. While not all of these institutions are in Jones County, many students from our community attend these or nearby schools, and the legal principles apply statewide.
- Legal options available to victims and their families in Jones County and across Texas seeking justice and accountability.
Please note that this article provides general information. It is not a substitute for specific legal advice tailored to your unique situation. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, can evaluate individual cases based on their specific facts and serves families throughout Texas, including Jones County, Tuscola, Anson, Hamlin, Hawley, and the greater Abilene metro area in Taylor County and Callahan County.
IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:
If your child is in immediate danger RIGHT NOW:
- Call 911 for medical emergencies. Prioritize their health and safety above all else.
- Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (or 1-888-288-9911). We provide immediate guidance—that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.
In the critical first 48 hours:
- Secure medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.” Injuries, especially related to alcohol poisoning or physical trauma, can have delayed and severe consequences.
- Preserve evidence BEFORE it can be deleted or vanish:
- Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages (DMs) immediately. This digital evidence is often the most critical.
- Photograph any injuries from multiple angles, ensuring timestamps are visible.
- Save physical items such as clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or any objects used in the hazing.
- Document everything while memory is fresh: who was there, what happened, when, and where.
- Crucially, do NOT:
- Attempt to confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly.
- Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal counsel.
- Post details about the incident on public social media platforms.
- Allow your child to delete any messages or attempt to “clean up” evidence.
Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:
- Evidence in hazing cases disappears rapidly—group chats are deleted, physical items like paddles are destroyed, and witnesses are coached to remain silent.
- Universities and organizations often move quickly to control the narrative and conduct their own internal investigations, which may not prioritize the victim’s best interests.
- Our team can help you preserve critical evidence and protect your child’s rights from the very beginning.
- Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate, confidential consultation.
2. HAZING IN 2025: What It Really Looks Like
For families in Jones County, the term “hazing” might conjure images of mischievous pranks or traditional rites of passage. However, modern hazing is far more insidious, dangerous, and psychologically damaging than those outdated perceptions allow. It has evolved to include sophisticated methods designed to evade detection, leveraging digital communication and psychological manipulation.
2.1 A Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing
Hazing, in its essence, is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by one person or a group, directed at a student for the purpose of joining, maintaining membership, or holding office in any organization whose members include students. This act, whether on or off campus, must endanger the mental or physical health or safety of the student.
It’s critical to understand that saying “I agreed to it” does not automatically make hazing safe or legal. Under immense peer pressure, the desire for belonging, and an explicit or implicit threat of exclusion, genuine consent is often impossible. The law recognizes that true “agreement” is absent in such coercive environments.
2.2 Main Categories of Modern Hazing
Hazing offenses now span a wide spectrum, often blending traditional abuses with contemporary tactics:
- Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most deadly forms. It includes forcing or pressuring new members to consume excessive amounts of alcohol, participate in dangerous drinking games (“lineups” or “Bible study”), or ingest unknown or illegal substances. Jones County parents whose children attend universities like Texas Tech, for instance, understand the prevalence of social drinking, but coerced consumption rises to an entirely different, illegal level.
- Physical Hazing: This category encompasses direct physical abuse such as paddling, beatings, or forced strenuous physical activities (“smokings” or extreme calisthenics) far beyond normal physical conditioning. It also includes severe sleep, food, or water deprivation, and exposure to extreme temperatures or dangerous environments.
- Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This involves forcing nudity or partial nudity, compelling students to perform simulated sexual acts (like the “roasted pig” position), or engaging in degrading rituals. Hazing can also regrettably take on racial, homophobic, or sexist dimensions through slurs, role-play, or stereotypes.
- Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked, psychological hazing can inflict deep, lasting trauma. This includes verbal abuse, threats, forced isolation, incessant mockery, or manipulative tactics. Public shaming, whether in person or on social media, contributes to this category.
- Digital/Online Hazing: A growing concern in 2025, this involves using platforms like GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, Discord, and other messaging apps for dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation. It can also include pressuring members to create or share compromising images or videos, or demanding constant vigilance and response via group chats at all hours.
2.3 Where Hazing Actually Happens
The stereotype that hazing is limited to “frat boys” is outdated and dangerous. While Greek life remains a focal point, hazing permeates various student organizations across all types of universities attended by students from Jones County:
- Fraternities and Sororities: This includes organizations under Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and various multicultural Greek councils.
- Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: These groups, prominently at institutions like Texas A&M, often have deeply ingrained traditions that can cross into hazing.
- Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs: Organizations designed to uphold school spirit or specific traditions (such as the “Texas Cowboys” type groups) can also engage in hazing practices.
- Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports, a widespread culture of hazing exists, often justified as “team building” or “toughening up” new players.
- Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly benign organizations like marching bands or other performance groups can harbor hazing rituals.
- Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Hazing can appear in unexpected places, as groups seeking exclusivity or bonding enforce rituals that become abusive.
The pervasive nature of hazing is underpinned by social status, tradition, and secrecy. These elements enable hazing practices to persist even when everyone “knows” that hazing is illegal and explicitly prohibited by university policies. The desire to belong, the fear of being seen as “weak,” and the pressure to uphold “tradition” often create a powerful, silent conspiracy.
3. LAW & LIABILITY FRAMEWORK (TEXAS + FEDERAL)
Navigating the legal landscape of hazing in Texas can be daunting for Jones County families. Understanding the laws, penalties, and who can be held responsible is the first step toward seeking justice.
3.1 Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)
Texas has clear statutory provisions specifically addressing hazing, primarily found in the Texas Education Code. In plain terms, if someone makes your child do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they did so intentionally, knowingly, or even recklessly regarding the risk of harm, that is hazing under Texas law. This applies whether the act occurs on or off campus, to the student’s physical or mental health.
Key aspects of Texas hazing law:
- Criminal Penalties: Hazing can carry significant criminal consequences. While a basic hazing offense might be a Class B Misdemeanor, the severity increases substantially if it causes injury requiring medical treatment (Class A Misdemeanor) or, tragically, serious bodily injury or death (State Jail Felony). There are also criminal penalties for failing to report hazing if you’re an officer or member who knew about it, and for retaliating against someone who reports it.
- Organizational Liability: Beyond individuals, organizations themselves can be criminally prosecuted and fined up to $10,000 if they authorized, encouraged, or knew about hazing and failed to report it. Universities can also revoke an organization’s recognition. This is critical for holding fraternities, sororities, and other groups accountable.
- Consent Is Not a Defense: A cornerstone of Texas hazing law (Texas Education Code § 37.155) explicitly states that it is not a defense to a hazing charge that the person being hazed consented to the activity. This crucial provision recognizes the inherent power imbalances and coercive nature of hazing environments.
- Reporter Protections/Immunity: Texas law provides some immunity from liability for individuals who report hazing incidents in good faith. Furthermore, many university policies and Texas law offer “medical amnesty” or leniency for students who call 911 or seek medical help in emergencies, even if underage drinking or other minor infractions were involved. This encourages seeking help without fear of personal repercussions for minor violations.
While this summarizes Texas law, remember the statute is more technical, and interpretation often requires expert legal analysis.
3.2 Criminal vs. Civil Cases
It’s important for Jones County residents to distinguish between two parallel legal paths when hazing occurs:
- Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (a prosecutor) against individuals or organizations. The goal is to punish the perpetrator with fines, jail time, or probation. Common criminal charges related to hazing can include hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, and in the most tragic cases, involuntary manslaughter or negligent homicide.
- Civil Cases: These are initiated by the victims or their surviving families. The primary goal is monetary compensation for damages suffered and to hold responsible parties accountable. Civil claims often involve allegations of negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring/supervision, premises liability (for property owners), and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Crucially, these two types of cases can proceed independently. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for pursuing a civil lawsuit, and victims can seek justice in both realms.
3.3 Federal Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery Act
Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also play a role, particularly in shaping university responsibilities:
- Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal legislation (phased in by around 2026) requires colleges and universities receiving federal funding to be more transparent about hazing incidents. Institutions must enhance hazing education and prevention efforts, and, critically, publicly report hazing data. This will provide families in Jones County with more accessible information about hazing incidents at Texas universities.
- Title IX / Clery Act: When hazing involves elements of sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based discrimination, Title IX obligations—which prohibit sex-based discrimination in education—may be triggered. The Clery Act requires colleges to report campus crime statistics, including certain categories that often overlap with hazing incidents, such as assaults, alcohol violations, and drug offenses.
3.4 Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit
For Jones County families, understanding that liability can extend beyond the immediate perpetrators is key to seeking comprehensive justice. A civil hazing lawsuit may target several parties:
- Individual Students: Those who actively planned, carried out the hazing acts, supplied alcohol, or participated in the cover-up can be held personally liable. This includes officers and “pledge educators.”
- Local Chapter / Organization: The fraternity chapter, sorority chapter, or other student organization itself (if it’s recognized as a legal entity) can be sued.
- National Fraternity / Sorority: The national headquarters, which charters, supervises, and collects dues from local chapters, can be held liable. This often hinges on whether they had prior knowledge of similar hazing patterns or failed to adequately enforce their “anti-hazing” policies.
- University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself, or its governing board (like Texas Tech in our local context, or other major Texas universities), can be sued under theories of negligence, gross negligence, failure to supervise, or even for Title IX or civil rights violations in certain circumstances. This often depends on whether the university had prior warnings, failed to enforce its own policies, or showed deliberate indifference to hazing.
- Third Parties: This can include owners of off-campus houses or venues where hazing occurred, and even alcohol providers (e.g., bars or liquor stores under dram shop laws) if they unlawfully served minors.
Every hazing case is fact-specific, and not every party will be liable in every situation. An experienced hazing attorney can identify all potentially liable parties and build the strongest possible case.
4. NATIONAL HAZING CASE PATTERNS (ANCHOR STORIES)
While a hazing incident deeply personal for a Jones County family, these tragedies are sadly part of a larger national pattern. Major cases across the country have shaped legal precedents, highlighted common dangers, and driven significant legislative changes. Understanding these “anchor stories” helps Texas families recognize patterns and the full legal consequences the responsible parties may face.
4.1 Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern
The most common and deadliest form of hazing involves forced alcohol consumption. The pattern is stark and repetitive:
- Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy, a 19-year-old pledge, died from traumatic brain injuries after a “bid-acceptance” event that involved extreme forced drinking. Security cameras inside the fraternity house captured him falling repeatedly, severely injured, over many hours, while fraternity brothers delayed calling for help. Dozens of criminal charges were filed against members, and the resulting civil litigation led to a new, stricter anti-hazing law in Pennsylvania bearing Timothy’s name. This case underscored that a culture of silence and delayed medical intervention dramatically exacerbates the consequences of extreme intoxication.
- Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew, a 20-year-old pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and forced to consume them rapidly. Criminal hazing charges were brought against multiple members, and FSU responded by suspending all Greek life. The incident highlighted how seemingly formulaic drinking “traditions” are often thinly veiled, dangerous hazing rituals.
- Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max, an 18-year-old pledge, died from alcohol toxicity after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game. He was forced to drink if he answered questions incorrectly, ultimately reaching a blood alcohol content of 0.495%. Max’s death galvanized Louisiana lawmakers to pass the Max Gruver Act, making felony hazing easier to prosecute. This case remains a powerful testament to how legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing’s lethal consequences.
- Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone, a 20-year-old pledge, suffered a fatal alcohol overdose after being forced to drink an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” initiation night. The incident led to multiple criminal convictions for hazing-related charges against fraternity members. In 2023, Stone’s family reached a $10 million settlement from various parties, including $7 million from the Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and approximately $3 million from Bowling Green State University. This case demonstrates that universities, alongside fraternities, can face significant financial and reputational consequences for their role in hazing deaths.
4.2 Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern
Hazing is not always confined to alcohol. Violent physical rituals leading to death or severe injury are also tragically common:
- Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): During a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains, Michael, a 19-year-old pledge, was blindfolded and weighted down before being repeatedly tackled in a brutal ritual known as “the glass ceiling.” He died from a traumatic brain injury, with fraternity members delaying calling for emergency services. Multiple individuals, and even the national fraternity, were convicted in criminal court, and the organization was banned from Pennsylvania for a decade. This case underscored that “off-campus” or “retreat” hazing doesn’t absolve liability and can lead to severe organizational sanctions.
- Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021): Danny, an 18-year-old pledge, suffered severe, permanent brain damage after being forced to consume excessive alcohol during a “pledge dad reveal” night. He cannot walk, talk, or see and requires 24/7 care. While not a death, the outcome was catastrophic. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the Santulli family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants for multi-million-dollar amounts, largely confidential. This case illustrates the potential for physically debilitating, lifelong injuries short of death, and the widespread accountability that can be pursued.
4.3 Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse
Hazing permeates beyond Greek life, often affecting high-profile athletic programs:
- Northwestern University – Football Hazing Scandal (2023–2025): Former players alleged a widespread culture of sexualized, racist hazing within the Northwestern football program over several years. This led to multiple lawsuits against the university and coaching staff, the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later settled a wrongful-termination suit confidentially), and deep institutional scrutiny. The incident forcefully reminded institutions and the public that hazing is not exclusive to Greek life but can fester in major college athletic programs, often under the guise of “team bonding” or “tradition.”
4.4 What These Cases Mean for Texas Families
The sobering common threads woven through these national tragedies are undeniable: forced drinking, extreme physical or psychological humiliation, violence, deliberate delays in medical care, and concerted efforts to cover up incidents. Jones County families must recognize that these are not isolated incidents; they are patterns.
These cases demonstrate that comprehensive legal action is often necessary to push for accountability, secure justice, and prevent future harm. Reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements frequently follow only after tragedy strikes and determined legal action is taken. For families in Jones County whose children attend or plan to attend Texas universities—whether it’s Texas Tech, UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor—they are navigating a complex landscape shaped by these national lessons, where their legal options are often robust, but challenging.
5. TEXAS FOCUS: Texas Tech, UH, TEXAS A&M, UT, SMU, BAYLOR
While Jones County itself might not host a major university, our community’s students frequently attend institutions across the state, with Texas Tech University and its active Greek life being particularly close and relevant for many families here in Jones County. Understanding the specific hazing dynamics at key Texas universities is crucial for families seeking to protect their children or pursue justice if hazing occurs.
For each of these institutions, we examine their unique campus culture, hazing policies, documented incidents, and the potential legal pathways for a hazing case.
5.1 Texas Tech University (TTU)
Texas Tech University, located an hour’s drive from Jones County in Lubbock, is a key destination for many local students. Its vibrant campus culture includes a significant Greek life presence and many student organizations, all with their own traditions. Families right here in Jones County, from Tuscola to Anson, often have direct connections to TTU through alumni networks and current students.
5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot
Texas Tech is a large public research university deeply ingrained in the West Texas identity. Its strong emphasis on community traditions, school spirit, and athletics creates a distinct environment. Greek life, ROTC, and numerous student organizations are active, and like many universities, sometimes these groups foster traditions that cross the line into hazing.
5.1.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting
Texas Tech has a clear anti-hazing policy, prohibiting any act tied to initiation or membership that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of students. Their policy, consistent with Texas state law, applies on or off campus. TTU provides reporting mechanisms through the Student Conduct office, Greek Life advisors, and the Texas Tech Police Department (TTPD).
5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses
Texas Tech has faced its share of hazing allegations and disciplinary actions:
- Sigma Phi Epsilon (2022): The university revoked recognition for TTU’s Sigma Phi Epsilon chapter due to hazing violations, including forced calisthenics, excessive alcohol consumption, and requiring pledges to complete demeaning tasks.
- Kappa Sigma (2021): The Kappa Sigma chapter faced university sanctions, including suspension, for hazing that involved forced consumption of alcohol and other substances.
- Phi Kappa Psi (2019): This fraternity was placed on probation and tasked with revising its new member education plan after allegations of hazing surfaced, involving inappropriate activities during social events.
These incidents, often resulting in university suspension or probation, demonstrate that despite policies, hazing remains an ongoing concern at TTU.
5.1.4 How a TTU Hazing Case Might Proceed
For a Jones County family pursuing a hazing case originating at Texas Tech, the legal path would involve:
- Local Law Enforcement: Depending on the nature and location of the incident, investigations could involve the Texas Tech Police Department (TTPD) or the Lubbock Police Department.
- Judicial Jurisdiction: Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in state district courts in Lubbock County.
- Potential Defendants: As with other universities, defendants could include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially Texas Tech University itself, or relevant property owners (e.g., of an off-campus fraternity house).
Knowing that the legal process would unfold in a predictable, local jurisdiction like Lubbock County can be a point of clarity for affected Jones County families, though the Manginello Law Firm is prepared to handle cases across the state.
5.1.5 What TTU Students and Parents Should Do
- Familiarize yourself with TTU’s Hazing Policy: Understand what constitutes a violation and the official reporting channels.
- Document Everything Diligently: If you suspect hazing, immediately screenshot group chats, photographs, or videos. Note dates, times, and specific details.
- Report Concerns: Use TTU’s Student Conduct office, a trusted faculty member, or the online reporting forms. For crimes or immediate danger, contact TTPD or Lubbock PD.
- Seek Legal Counsel Promptly: If you or your child has been physically or psychologically harmed, contacting an experienced hazing attorney can help determine the best course of action. This is particularly crucial given the pattern of hazing incidents at Texas Tech.
5.2 University of Houston (UH)
5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot
The University of Houston, a large, diverse urban campus in the heart of Houston, serves as a hub of academic and social activity, including a vibrant Greek life. It attracts students from across Texas, including from Jones County, and its dynamic environment means student organizations are highly active.
5.2.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting
UH publicly prohibits hazing, articulating clear definitions similar to the Texas Education Code. Their comprehensive policy forbids physically or mentally endangering acts, forced consumption of substances, and any activity used for initiation that is humiliating or abusive. Reporting channels are robust, including the Dean of Students, student conduct offices, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD).
5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses
UH has had its share of high-profile hazing cases, demonstrating the ongoing challenges it faces:
- Pi Kappa Alpha (2016): This incident involved pledges allegedly being deprived of food, water, and sleep during events, culminating in one student suffering a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a surface. The chapter faced criminal charges and a lengthy university suspension. This case highlighted the severe physical dangers involved in hazing.
- Delta Upsilon (2020): The UH chapter of Delta Upsilon was suspended following allegations of hazing activities that included forced alcohol consumption and degrading tasks.
- Multiple Disciplinary Actions: UH’s public records often reflect disciplinary actions against various fraternities for violations related to alcohol misuse, “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” and other policy breaches, indicating a recurring problem.
5.2.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed
Given UH’s location, a hazing incident here could involve:
- Law Enforcement: The University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) or the Houston Police Department (HPD) would typically be the primary law enforcement agencies.
- Judicial Jurisdiction: Civil cases would be filed in Harris County district courts.
- Unique Challenges: As a public university, UH may raise defenses related to sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist, particularly in cases of gross negligence or Title IX violations.
5.2.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do
Jones County parents with children at UH should:
- Understand UH’s comprehensive anti-hazing stance and leverage their official reporting systems.
- Preserve digital evidence immediately—UH’s student body is highly digitally connected, and group chats are often central to hazing activities.
- Consult a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases. The Manginello Law Firm’s roots in Houston and deep familiarity with Harris County’s legal landscape can be invaluable for navigating such complex cases, including uncovering prior university discipline and internal files that may not be publicly available.
5.3 Texas A&M University
5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot
Texas A&M, known for its deep traditions, strong sense of community, and the Corps of Cadets, draws students from across Texas, including Jones County and the larger Abilene area. The “Aggie Spirit” is pervasive, but this intense loyalty can sometimes enable hazing within both Greek life and the Corps.
5.3.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting
Texas A&M’s hazing policy explicitly prohibits all forms of hazing, whether physical, mental, or involving forced consumption. They emphasize reporting through the Office of the Dean of Student Life, the Texas A&M Police Department (TAMUPD), and confidential channels. They also publish annual hazing reports to increase transparency.
5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses
Texas A&M has faced significant hazing issues, often highlighting the intersection of Greek life and Corps traditions:
- Sigma Alpha Epsilon (around 2021): Pledges alleged they were subjected to forced strenuous activity, and substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit were poured on them, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million, and the chapter was suspended by the university.
- Corps of Cadets (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing rituals, including being physically restrained in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth, simulating sexual acts. The lawsuit sought over $1 million. A&M stated it handled the matter according to its internal policies. This case underscored that hazing is not exclusive to Greek life.
- Kappa Sigma (2023, ongoing): Allegations of severe hazing causing injuries consistent with rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown from extreme physical exertion) have led to ongoing litigation.
5.3.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed
For a Jones County family with a child at Texas A&M whose case involves hazing:
- Law Enforcement: Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD) and Bryan/College Station local police would be involved.
- Judicial Jurisdiction: Lawsuits would typically be filed in Brazos County district courts.
- Unique Factors: Cases may involve both Greek life and Corps of Cadets regulations, navigating A&M’s deep-seated traditions and public university sovereign immunity claims. Our firm’s deep understanding of these specific Texas A&M dynamics is crucial.
5.3.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do
Families from Jones County and across Texas need to be particularly vigilant:
- Be aware of both Greek and Corps hazing issues: Understand that hazing can manifest differently in these unique environments.
- Document details meticulously: Given A&M’s strong traditions and internal structures, detailed contemporaneous notes and evidence are paramount.
- Seek legal counsel with expertise in A&M’s environment: The Manginello Law Firm understands how civil cases focusing on hazing in both Greek life and Corps traditions are pursued, leveraging our experience against large institutions to uncover systemic issues.
5.4 University of Texas at Austin (UT)
5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot
The University of Texas at Austin is the flagship institution of the UT System, a massive campus known for its academic rigor, vibrant student life, and a highly active Greek community. Many students from Jones County aspire to attend UT, and its Greek life is among the largest in Texas.
5.4.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting
UT Austin maintains a public and proactive stance against hazing. Their robust policy aligns with Texas law, prohibiting various forms of physical, mental, and substance-related abuse. Critically, UT is transparent, maintaining an online database of Hazing Violations that details organizations, incident dates, specific conduct, and disciplinary sanctions. This tool is invaluable for Jones County families.
5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses
UT’s transparency provides a clear, if troubling, history of hazing incidents:
- Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) (2023): This chapter faced disciplinary action after new members were reportedly forced to consume large quantities of milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, actions that UT deemed hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and required to strengthen its hazing-prevention education.
- Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) (January 2024): An Australian exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members at a party, resulting in severe injuries including a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, and a fractured tibia. The chapter had already been suspended for prior hazing/safety violations, highlighting repeat offenses.
- “Absolute Texxas” Spirit Group (2022): This non-Greek student organization was disciplined for hazing violations that included alcohol/drug misconduct, blindfolding, kidnapping, and degrading new members, demonstrating hazing outside traditional Greek structures.
UT’s public database confirms that repeat violations are common across many organizations, indicating an ongoing challenge to suppress hazing behavior.
5.4.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed
- Law Enforcement: The University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) and the Austin Police Department (APD) would be primary contacts.
- Judicial Jurisdiction: Civil cases would be filed in Travis County district courts.
- Key Advantage for Plaintiffs: UT’s public record of hazing violations can be a powerful tool for civil lawsuits, demonstrating a pattern of misconduct and the university’s prior knowledge or failure to adequately address hazing patterns.
5.4.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do
Jones County families with students at UT should:
- Regularly review UT’s Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu): This resource provides vital information about disciplined organizations.
- Document any hazing behavior: From odd texts to concerning social media posts or physical signs, preserve all evidence.
- Recognize the potential for repeat offenders: UT’s public list highlights organizations with a track record, providing critical context for legal action.
- Consult a lawyer experienced in UT hazing cases: Our firm can leverage UT’s specific transparency and the robust legal frameworks in Travis County to build compelling cases.
5.5 Southern Methodist University (SMU)
5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot
Southern Methodist University, a private university in Dallas, is known for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and a prominent Greek life that is central to its social scene. For Jones County families, SMU offers a different university experience, but one with similar hazing risks.
5.5.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting
SMU maintains clear anti-hazing policies, prohibiting any acts that endanger student health or safety, or that are demeaning or coercive. Its reporting mechanisms include the Dean of Students, confidential hotlines, and the SMU Police Department.
5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses
SMU has also grappled with hazing within its Greek system:
- Kappa Alpha Order (2017): This fraternity chapter was suspended after reports of severe hazing, including alleged paddling, forced excessive alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation for new members. The chapter faced recruitment restrictions for years following the incident.
- Pi Kappa Alpha (2018): SMU suspended its Pi Kappa Alpha chapter for violations including hazing, demonstrating multiple incidents within the same national fraternity found at other Texas schools.
- Alpha Chi Omega (2020): While not involving physical hazing, this sorority was placed on probation for violations of policies related to alcohol and new member activities, reinforcing that hazing definitions are broad.
5.5.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed
- Law Enforcement: The SMU Police Department and the Dallas Police Department would typically investigate.
- Judicial Jurisdiction: Civil suits would be filed in Dallas County district courts.
- Private University Status: As a private institution, SMU does not have sovereign immunity, which can simplify some legal filings compared to public universities, though private entities still vigorously defend against hazing allegations.
5.5.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do
For Jones County families connected to SMU:
- Be aware of SMU’s specific hazing policies and anonymous reporting options.
- Carefully document any instances of pressured activities or degrading behavior.
- Understand that a private university’s internal investigations may be less transparent than a public school’s. This makes thorough independent legal investigation even more critical.
- Contact a legal firm with experience handling cases involving private universities. The Manginello Law Firm’s background includes navigating complex litigation against powerful institutions, regardless of their public or private status.
5.6 Baylor University
5.6.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot
Baylor University, a private Christian university in Waco, holds a unique position in Texas. Its strong religious affiliation, combined with a significant Greek life and athletic programs, shapes its distinct culture. Jones County families may find Baylor an attractive option, but its history reveals that hazing can occur even within institutions with strong ethical codes.
5.6.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting
Baylor’s anti-hazing policy is comprehensive, prohibiting any act tied to initiation or membership that is humiliating, abusive, or endangers health. Baylor emphasizes reporting through its Department of Student Conduct, Greek Life advisors, and the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD), often stressing its “zero tolerance” stance.
5.6.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses
Baylor has faced scrutiny not only for Greek hazing but also for hazing in its athletic programs, often against the backdrop of broader controversies regarding institutional oversight:
- Baylor Baseball (2020): An extensive hazing investigation led to the suspension of 14 baseball players. The hazing activities involved actions deemed detrimental to new members, leading to staggered suspensions over the early season. This incident, while relatively recent, fits into a larger narrative of oversight challenges at Baylor regarding student well-being.
- Multiple Greek Suspensions: Baylor has intermittently suspended or placed on probation several Greek chapters for hazing or related violations, highlighting that despite its stated values, challenges persist.
5.6.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed
- Law Enforcement: The Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) or the Waco Police Department would likely be involved.
- Judicial Jurisdiction: Civil cases would typically be filed in McLennan County district courts.
- Unique Considerations: Baylor’s status as a private, religiously affiliated institution can introduce additional complexities in litigation, particularly concerning internal processes and potential defenses, but does not provide sovereign immunity.
5.6.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do
For Jones County families considering or attending Baylor:
- Be vigilant about “traditions” within all student organizations, not just Greek life. Baylor’s history shows hazing can appear in unexpected places, such as athletic teams.
- Document and report any suspicions immediately. Use Baylor’s official channels, but be prepared that the internal processes of a private university might differ from public institutions.
- Understand Baylor’s history of past institutional oversight challenges. This context can be crucial in assessing a hazing claim.
- Seek legal counsel familiar with hazing cases at private Texas universities. The Manginello Law Firm possesses the experience to navigate these unique institutional environments and advocate for your child’s rights.
6. FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES: Campus-Specific + National Histories
For Jones County families, understanding the national context of Greek organizations is almost as important as understanding the local chapter. Many of the fraternities and sororities active at Texas Tech, UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are part of vast national organizations with complex histories, including a grim pattern of hazing incidents that stretch across the country.
6.1 Why National Histories Matter
The reality is that national fraternities and sororities often possess a wealth of knowledge about hazing—knowledge gleaned from decades of incidents, injuries, and deaths at their various chapters. These national headquarters:
- Maintain extensive anti-hazing policies, manuals, and training programs—often because they have been forced to do so through prior lawsuits, regulatory scrutiny, and public pressure following devastating incidents.
- Are acutely aware of common hazing patterns, such as forced alcohol consumption nights, ritualized paddling, and degrading “pledge tasks.”
When a local chapter in Texas, including those at Texas Tech University, replicates a hazing scenario that has already led to injury or death at another chapter in a different state, this can be powerful evidence of foreseeability. It strengthens arguments that the national organization knew, or should have known, about the dangers inherent in these “traditions” but failed to adequately intervene, supervise, or enforce its own rules. This can significantly bolster negligence claims and arguments for punitive damages against national entities.
6.2 Organization Mapping: From Texas Chapters to National Patterns
Without listing every single Greek organization, it’s illustrative to show how some major fraternities and sororities, frequently found at Texas Tech, UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, have national histories that highlight recurrent hazing issues:
- Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity has chapters at Texas Tech, UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor. Nationally, it has a documented history of severe alcohol hazing. The tragic Stone Foltz case at Bowling Green State (2021) involved a pledge dying from alcohol poisoning during a “Big/Little” night, leading to a $10 million settlement. Similarly, the David Bogenberger case at Northern Illinois (2012) resulted in a $14 million settlement after a pledge died from alcohol hazing. These incidents demonstrate a dangerous pattern of alcohol-related hazing within Pike chapters across the nation, making similar incidents in Texas tragically foreseeable.
- Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): With chapters at Texas Tech, UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU, SAE has faced numerous allegations and lawsuits nationwide. Victims have alleged severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury at the University of Alabama (2023 lawsuit). In Texas, SAE chapters have been implicated in significant incidents: at Texas A&M (2021), pledges allegedly suffered severe chemical burns from substances poured on them. At UT Austin (2024), an exchange student sustained significant injuries in an alleged assault at an SAE party, occurring while the chapter was already under suspension for prior violations. These cases underscore a national pattern of issues within SAE.
- Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Present at Texas Tech, UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, Phi Delta Theta has a particularly painful national history. The death of Max Gruver at LSU (2017) from alcohol poisoning during a forced drinking “Bible study” game directly led to Louisiana’s felony hazing law. This is a clear example of how hazing at one chapter can lead to widespread legal precedent.
- Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): This fraternity, found at Texas Tech, UH, Texas A&M, and UT, was involved in the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State (2017), who died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night.” This emphasizes the recurrence of dangerous alcohol hazing in this organization’s programming across different campuses.
- Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): With chapters at Texas Tech, UH, Texas A&M, and UT, Kappa Sigma has been associated with severe incidents. The Chad Meredith case at the University of Miami (2001) resulted in a $12.6 million jury verdict after Meredith drowned during a hazing activity. More recently, allegations of severe injuries (including rhabdomyolysis) at Texas A&M (2023) highlight continuing concerns within Kappa Sigma chapters.
- Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): With chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, Beta Theta Pi is tied to the notorious Timothy Piazza case at Penn State (2017), where a pledge died from traumatic injuries after extreme alcohol hazing and delayed medical care, leading to landmark criminal prosecutions and national legislative change.
- Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Active at Texas Tech, UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, Sigma Chi recently faced a settlement of more than $10 million in damages at the College of Charleston (2024) for physical beatings, forced substance consumption, and psychological torment. This demonstrates large financial consequences for severe hazing within the organization.
6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy
The documented national and campus-specific histories of these organizations are invaluable to our legal strategy. They help us demonstrate that:
- Foreseeability: These organizations, both local chapters and national headquarters, had ample reason to know the dangers of certain hazing practices because they have appeared repeatedly across multiple campuses and years.
- Failure to Act: We can argue that national organizations often fail to meaningfully enforce their anti-hazing policies or respond aggressively enough to prior incidents, creating a pattern of neglect that contributes to future tragedies.
- Impact on Litigation: This pattern evidence can significantly influence settlement negotiations, strengthen arguments for punitive damages (which punish egregious conduct), and help overcome insurance coverage disputes where insurers try to deny responsibility. It allows us to present a comprehensive picture of institutional failure, not just isolated “rogue” acts.
For any Jones County family facing hazing at Texas Tech, or any other Texas institution, understanding this broader context is vital. It means that what might seem like an isolated incident to you is often tragically part of a well-documented national pattern, and experienced hazing attorneys know how to leverage that pattern to secure justice.
7. BUILDING A CASE: Evidence, Damages, Strategy
For families in Jones County whose child has been impacted by hazing, building a strong legal case requires meticulous evidence collection, a deep understanding of potential damages, and a clear legal strategy. The Manginello Law Firm approaches these cases with specialized expertise, knowing that the quality of the investigation directly impacts the potential for accountability.
7.1 Evidence: The Unseen Details That Win Cases
Modern hazing cases are often won or lost based on digital evidence and the ability to uncover information that organizations try to conceal. Here are the critical categories of evidence we pursue:
- Digital Communications: This is often the most vital category. Hazing is meticulously planned and communicated through group chats on platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, iMessage, Discord, and fraternity-specific apps. We aggressively pursue screenshots, chat logs, and even forensic recovery of deleted messages. Instagram DMs, Snapchat stories, TikTok videos, and Facebook Messenger threads also provide crucial insights into planning, execution, and cover-up attempts.
- Photos & Videos: Content filmed by members during hazing events, often shared in group chats or private social media accounts, serves as undeniable proof. This includes footage of the hazing itself, injuries, or incriminating conversations. Additionally, security camera footage from houses or nearby venues can provide objective evidence of what occurred.
- Internal Organization Documents: We seek pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” lists, and any email or text communications among officers regarding new member activities. National fraternity/sorority policies, risk management training materials, and any internal incident reports are also critical to show what the organizations knew and what steps they failed to take.
- University Records: Through discovery and public records requests (for public universities like Texas Tech), we obtain prior conduct files, probation notices, warning letters, and incident reports related to the responsible organization. Clery Act crime statistics and other public disclosures can also reveal patterns of misconduct.
- Medical and Psychological Records: These document the full extent of the harm. This includes emergency room reports, hospitalization records, surgical notes, physical therapy records, and toxicology reports (for alcohol or drug use). For psychological harm, evaluations from psychologists or psychiatrists diagnosing PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other trauma-related conditions are crucial.
- 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 for refusing to participate in hazing can be particularly compelling witnesses, offering insider perspectives.
7.2 Damages: Compensating for Profound Harm
When hazing harms a student from Jones County, the law seeks to compensate for all losses, both economic and non-economic. We work to ensure that victims and their families receive full and fair recovery:
- Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs, from emergency services and hospital stays to ongoing surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and long-term care plans for severe injuries like traumatic brain damage, such as in the Danny Santulli case.
- Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This includes lost income if the student or a parent missed work, as well as compensation for significant educational setbacks. This can involve tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships, delayed entry into the workforce, and reduced earning capacity if permanent injuries or psychological trauma impact a student’s ability to pursue their chosen career.
- Non-Economic Damages: These subjective but real losses include physical pain and suffering, intense emotional distress, humiliation, and the profound trauma that often accompanies hazing. It also covers the loss of enjoyment of life, as students may be unable to pursue hobbies, sports, or social activities they once loved, experiencing a diminished college experience.
- Wrongful Death Damages (for families): In the tragic event of a hazing death, families from Jones County can recover funeral and burial costs, as well as significant non-economic damages for the loss of companionship, love, and support. This also includes compensation for the family’s grief and emotional suffering.
We are describing types of damages here, not providing an offer or guarantee of specific dollar amounts. Each case is unique, and damages are calculated based on the specific facts and expert analysis.
7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage
A crucial part of our strategy is identifying all potentially liable parties and unraveling the complex web of insurance coverage. National fraternities and universities, as large entities, typically carry extensive insurance policies. However, their insurers often attempt to deny coverage, arguing that hazing constitutes “intentional acts” (which policies may exclude) or that certain defendants aren’t covered.
The Manginello Law Firm’s experienced hazing lawyers, including Lupe Peña with her background as an insurance defense attorney, are adept at:
- Identifying all potential insurance policies: This includes local chapter policies, national organization policies, and university umbrella policies.
- Navigating disputes over policy exclusions: We challenge arguments that hazing is an “intentional act” by demonstrating that the organization’s negligence (e.g., in supervision or enforcement of policies) is what led to the harm.
- Maximizing recovery: We work to ensure that all available coverage is brought to bear to compensate the victim and hold all responsible parties accountable.
This approach requires significant legal sophistication, ensuring that your Jones County family’s case is not dismissed by complex insurance and institutional defenses.
8. PRACTICAL GUIDES & FAQs
When hazing affects a family in Jones County, immediate, actionable guidance is paramount. The following sections provide practical advice for parents, students, and witnesses.
8.1 For Parents in Jones County
As a parent, your love and protectiveness are your child’s first line of defense. Here’s how to recognize hazing and what steps to take:
- Warning Signs of Hazing: Be alert to changes in your child’s physical and emotional well-being.
- Physical: Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or repeated “accidents” with flimsy excuses; extreme fatigue or exhaustion; significant weight loss or gain; signs of sleep deprivation; new or worsening injuries from “workouts.”
- Emotional/Behavioral: Sudden secrecy about their organization’s activities (“I can’t talk about it”); withdrawal from old friends or family; drastic mood swings, anxiety, depression, or irritability; defensiveness when asked about the group; a sense of fear about “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down.”
- Academic: Sudden drop in grades, missing classes, or falling asleep in class; prioritizing “mandatory” events over academic responsibilities.
- Digital: Constant monitoring of group chats, anxiety when their phone receives a notification, or obsessive deletion of messages or browsing history. Geo-location sharing apps newly installed on their devices may also be a red flag.
- How to Talk to Your Child: Approach any conversation with compassion, not judgment. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?” or “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?” Emphasize their safety and well-being above any group affiliation, and reassure them you will support them no matter what.
- If Your Child Is Hurt: Immediately get them medical attention. Document everything carefully: take photos of any injuries, screenshot texts or other digital communications they show you, and write down everything they tell you, including names, dates, and locations.
- Dealing with the University: If you decide to engage with the university, document every communication. Ask specifically about any prior incidents involving the same organization and what the school did in response. Information on public university hazing violation registries (like UT’s) can be particularly helpful.
- When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing or hiding what happened, it is crucial to contact an experienced hazing attorney. We can help you navigate these complex situations.
8.2 For Students / Pledges
For students from Jones County involved in Greek life or other organizations, the decision to speak up can be terrifying. This guide empowers you to understand your situation and your rights.
- Is This Hazing or Just Tradition?: Ask yourself: Am I being pressured to do something I don’t want to do? Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal? Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening? Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves? Am I being told to keep secrets or lie? If you answer yes to any of these, it’s likely hazing.
- Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. You may feel like you “agreed” to participate, but under immense peer pressure, fear of social exclusion, and a powerful desire to belong, your “consent” is not truly voluntary. The law recognizes this coercive dynamic.
- Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time, regardless of what they may tell you. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If you wish to de-pledge, consider informing a trusted adult outside the organization first. You can also send a clear email or text to the chapter president/new member educator stating your resignation. If you fear retaliation, report this concern to the Dean of Students. Report privately or anonymously to campus authorities (Dean of Students, Title IX Coordinator for sexual hazing) or through anonymous tip lines. The National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE) is a resource.
- Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and laws, including in Texas, offer protections such as medical amnesty for individuals who call for help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or other infractions were involved. This protects you from punishment for seeking help.
8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses
If you were once part of a hazing incident, either as a participant, witness, or even an instigator, and now regret your involvement, you have a crucial role to play in preventing future harm.
- Acknowledge Your Role: It’s normal to feel guilt, shame, or fear of repercussions. However, your testimony and evidence can be instrumental in preventing future tragedies and saving lives.
- Your Impact: By coming forward, you can help expose dangerous practices, bring justice to victims, and contribute to meaningful change within organizations and universities.
- Legal Advice: You may want to seek your own legal advice to understand your potential legal exposure and protections as a witness or even a co-defendant. An attorney can help you navigate the process of cooperating with authorities while protecting your own interests. The Manginello Law Firm can provide confidential consultation in these complex situations.
8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case
For Jones County families pursuing justice for hazing, avoiding certain common missteps is just as crucial as collecting evidence. These mistakes can severely undermine a legal claim:
- Allowing Your Child to Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence:
- What parents might think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble, so let’s erase the evidence.”
- Why it’s wrong: This can appear as an attempt to obstruct justice, making a legal case nearly impossible and potentially exposing your child to further legal complications.
- What to do instead: Preserve and back up everything immediately, even embarrassing content. Our video “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos.
- Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly:
- What parents might think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind and demand answers.”
- Why it’s wrong: Direct confrontation will immediately cause the organization to lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defense, potentially making your case much harder.
- What to do instead: Document everything privately, then call a lawyer before any confrontation.
- Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms:
- What universities might do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements quickly.
- Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit, and any “settlement” offered by the university internally is typically far below the true value of your case.
- What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university without having an experienced attorney review it first.
- Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer:
- What families might think: “I want the world to know what happened to my child.”
- Why it’s wrong: Anything posted publicly can be used against you by defense attorneys, who will meticulously screenshot everything. Inconsistencies in public statements can damage credibility, and premature sharing can waive certain legal protections.
- What to do instead: Document privately and allow your legal team to strategize public messaging, if any, once the case is secure.
- Letting Your Child Go Back for “One Last Meeting”:
- What fraternities might say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic.”
- Why it’s wrong: These meetings are often designed to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can later be used against the victim in court.
- What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication with the organization should typically go through your attorney.
- Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”:
- What universities might promise: “We’re investigating, let us handle this internally.”
- Why it’s wrong: While universities conduct internal investigations, they are often focused on institutional liability and reputation. Critical evidence can disappear rapidly, witnesses can graduate or move, and the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit can expire.
- What to do instead: Preserve evidence now and consult a lawyer immediately. The university’s internal process does not equate to real accountability or justice for your child.
- Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer:
- What adjusters might say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.”
- Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters, representing the organization’s or individual’s insurer, are not on your side. Recorded statements can be used against you, and initial settlement offers are almost always lowball.
- What to do instead: Politely decline to provide any statement and inform them that your attorney will contact them.
Watch Attorney911’s video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY for more critical insights.
8.5 Short FAQ
- “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities like Texas Tech, UH, and UT have some sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, or when suing individual employees in their personal capacity. Private universities like SMU and Baylor have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific—contact Attorney911 (1-888-ATTY-911) for a case-specific analysis. - “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. While a basic hazing offense is a Class B misdemeanor, it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who are officers of an organization and fail to report hazing can also face charges. Texas criminal defense lawyers, like those at Attorney911, can advise on these complex situations. - “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. Our legal system recognizes that “consent” given under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent. - “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally, there is a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” can extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately apparent. In cases with cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is always critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and organizations destroy records. Do not delay; call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. Learn more about Texas statute of limitations in our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c. - “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
The location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases that resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments, such as the Pi Delta Psi retreat case or the Sigma Pi incident, 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. Our legal team can pursue strategies to keep court records sealed and settlement terms confidential, prioritizing your family’s privacy while still seeking accountability and justice.
9. About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action
When your family in Jones County faces the trauma of a hazing incident, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions like universities and national fraternities fight back—and how to win anyway. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, brings a unique, battle-tested approach to hazing litigation across Texas.
From our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices, we serve families throughout Texas, including Jones County, Abilene, and the surrounding regions. We understand that hazing at Texas universities, be it Texas Tech, UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor, can deeply impact communities like ours. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate yet aggressive representation for victims.
Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases?
Our firm stands apart due to our distinct qualifications:
- Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña): Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/). 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. We know their playbook because we used to run it, giving us an invaluable edge in negotiations and litigation.
- Complex Litigation Against Powerful Institutions (Ralph Manginello): Managing Partner Ralph P. Manginello (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/) has a quarter-century of experience taking on formidable opponents. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the massive BP Texas City explosion litigation, and his extensive federal court experience means our firm is not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their well-funded defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won; we know how to fight powerful defendants effectively.
- Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, collaborating with economists and life care planners to value a life and the lifelong needs of catastrophic injury victims. We don’t settle cases cheaply. We methodically build them to force accountability and secure the maximum possible compensation for our clients.
- Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the elite Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association means we understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. We can provide sophisticated counsel to victims and even to witnesses or former members facing dual exposure.
- Investigative Depth: We know how to investigate every facet of a modern hazing incident. This includes obtaining deleted group chats and social media evidence, subpoenaing national fraternity records to uncover patterns of prior incidents, and leveraging public records requests and discovery to access university files. We work with a network of experts—digital forensics, medical, economists, and psychologists—because we investigate like your child’s life depends on it.
We understand that hazing cases are not just about legal technicalities; they’re about shattered trust, profound emotional and physical pain, and the desire for justice. Our job is to listen intently, get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We believe in thorough investigation and unwavering advocacy, not just bravado or quick settlements.
Call to Action for Jones County Families
If you or your child experienced hazing at Texas Tech University, or any other Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Jones County, Abilene, and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.
Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options clearly, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family.
What to expect in your free consultation:
- We will listen to your story without judgment.
- We will review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
- We will explain your legal options, whether it involves a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
- We will discuss realistic timelines and what you can expect during the legal process.
- We will answer your questions about costs, as we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. (Learn more in our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6FNc).
- There’s no pressure to hire us on the spot; take the time you need to decide.
- Everything you tell us is strictly confidential.
Reach out to Attorney911 today:
- 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
Spanish-Language Services:
- Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.
Whether you’re in Jones County, Abilene, 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