Rhode Island Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $24M Pi Kappa Alpha Settlements Exposed | Attorney911 — The Firm That Closed Beta Nu | Federal Court | Former Insurance Defense | 1-888-ATTY-911

When an unexpected silence fills the usual bustle of a Rhode Island home, a parent’s thoughts often drift to their child away at college. Perhaps they’re studying late for finals, or maybe enjoying a well-deserved night out with newfound friends. But what if that silence is born of fear? What if their child is at a fraternity house a thousand miles away, enduring a “tradition” that puts their health, their future, or even their life at risk? Imagine the frantic call, not from your child, but from a concerned friend, whispering about an early morning hospital visit, unexplained injuries, or a “pledge activity” gone horribly wrong. This devastating scenario, tragically, is not uncommon in the modern college landscape.

This situation, though set in a distant state, is a very real fear for any family who has sent a son or daughter to a university. Whether your child is attending a local Rhode Island institution or a major university in Texas, the lessons and legal pathways are crucial for your peace of mind. We have developed this comprehensive guide specifically for families in Rhode Island and across the nation who need to understand the stark realities of hazing in 2025.

We will explain:

• What modern hazing truly looks like, far beyond the stereotypes.
• The specific legal frameworks in Texas and how federal regulations play a role.
• How national hazing patterns, including tragic cases at other universities across the country, illuminate the risks for students in Texas.
• What has been happening at prominent Texas institutions like the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University.
• The vital role of our firm, Attorney911, in pursuing accountability and justice in hazing cases.

This article is designed to provide you with general information, not specific legal advice. Every case is unique, and circumstances vary greatly despite shared patterns. The Manginello Law Firm is dedicated to serving families throughout Texas, and indeed across the United States. We are here to help review your specific situation should hazing touch your family.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

• In the first 48 hours:

  • Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.”
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
    • Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately.
    • Photograph injuries from multiple angles.
    • Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects).
  • Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where).
  • Do NOT:
    • Confront the fraternity/sorority.
    • Sign anything from the university or insurance company.
    • Post details on public social media.
    • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence.

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

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

HAZING IN 2025: WHAT IT REALLY LOOKS LIKE

For Rhode Island families unfamiliar with the evolving nature of campus life, hazing today is often far more insidious and dangerous than the “good-natured pranks” of past generations. It’s a complex and often hidden issue that impacts students in various settings, leading to devastating consequences.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

At its core, hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act where one person, alone or with others, directs behavior against a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in an organization. This act must endanger the mental or physical health or safety of a student.

Crucially, “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal. Under intense peer pressure and a desire to belong, a student’s “consent” to humiliating or dangerous acts is rarely truly voluntary. The law, and common sense, recognize that true consent cannot exist in an environment of coercion and significant power imbalance.

Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing manifests in various forms, often escalating from subtle manipulation to outright violence. It’s important for Rhode Island parents and students to understand these gradations to recognize the warning signs early.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is arguably the most common and deadliest form of hazing. It involves forcing, coercing, or strongly pressuring individuals to consume harmful amounts of alcohol or illicit substances. Examples include drinking games designed for rapid intoxication, “lineups” where pledges are forced to chug drinks, or being made to consume unknown or mixed substances. The “Big/Little” reveal events, intended to foster mentorship, are tragically often transformed into forced drinking bouts.

• Physical Hazing: Beyond harmless physical exercises, this category includes acts that inflict bodily harm or extreme physical endurance. This can range from traditional paddling and beatings to extreme calisthenics (“smokings”) that push individuals past their physical limits. Sleep and food or water deprivation are also common, leading to exhaustion, dehydration, and serious health risks. Exposure to extreme weather conditions, or forcing individuals into unsafe environments, falls under this type of hazing.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are designed to degrade, embarrass, and assault an individual’s dignity and often involve sexual elements. Forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (like “elephant walks” or “roasted pig” scenarios), and wearing degrading costumes are all forms of sexualized hazing. Activities that carry racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones, including the use of slurs or forced role-playing of stereotypes, inflict deep psychological wounds.

• Psychological Hazing: This type of hazing causes significant emotional or mental distress. It includes sustained verbal abuse, threats, isolation from outside contacts, and manipulative tactics designed to control thoughts and emotions. Public shaming, whether in person or online, can lead to severe anxiety, depression, and long-term psychological damage. Members often employ tactics to foster fear and dependence, undermining self-esteem and critical thinking skills.

• Digital/Online Hazing: With the ubiquity of smartphones and social media, hazing has found new, insidious avenues. This includes group chat dares, challenges, and public humiliation disseminated via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, and fraternity-specific apps. Pledges can be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to engage in online interactions that are demeaning. This constant digital scrutiny and demand for immediate response creates a 24/7 environment of psychological control and little respite.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

It’s a common misconception that hazing is exclusively a “frat boy problem.” While fraternities and sororities (including Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and multicultural Greek-letter organizations) are often tragically associated with hazing incidents, the reality is far broader. Hazing occurs across a surprising range of student groups:

• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Organizations that emulate military structures, like the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M, often have long-standing traditions that walk a fine line, or outright cross into, hazing, using discipline and physical demands as a cover for abusive practices.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Groups like the Texas Cowboys at UT Austin, or various university spirit organizations, can develop insular cultures where “tradition” is used to justify dangerous or demeaning acts for new members.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, cheer, and even academic or club sports, hazing is unfortunately prevalent. The desire for team unity can be twisted into rituals that include physical abuse, forced alcohol consumption, and sexualized acts.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous organizations are not immune. Band members, dance troupes, and theater groups can engage in hazing rituals as part of their initiation, emphasizing secrecy and group loyalty.
• Some Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any group with an “exclusive” membership or a tiered structure of seniority can fall prey to hazing, regardless of its stated mission.

The hidden nature of hazing is maintained by powerful forces: social status, where acceptance into certain groups is highly coveted; deeply ingrained tradition, where “we did it, so you have to too” becomes the mantra; and a strict code of secrecy, enforced by threats of social ostracization or physical reprisal. These elements combine to perpetrate practices that everyone “knows” are wrong, even as they continue.

LAW & LIABILITY FRAMEWORK (TEXAS + FEDERAL)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing is crucial for families in Rhode Island and throughout Texas. Hazing is not just a campus policy violation; it’s a crime, and it can carry severe civil liabilities for individuals and institutions alike.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has a robust set of laws specifically designed to combat hazing, found in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. These laws define what constitutes hazing, outline criminal penalties, and specify institutional responsibilities.

According to the Texas Education Code, hazing means:

“Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that: endangered the mental or physical health or safety of a student, for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members are students.”

In plain terms, if someone makes your child do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or remain in a student group, and they either intended to cause harm or were reckless about the risks involved, that is hazing under Texas law. This applies regardless of whether the activity happened on or off-campus.

Key aspects of Texas hazing law:

• Mental or Physical Harm: The law is broad enough to cover both physical injuries (like beatings or forced exercise) and psychological trauma (such as extreme humiliation or intimidation).
• Intent vs. Recklessness: The perpetrator doesn’t necessarily have to act with malicious intent. If their actions were “reckless” – meaning they were aware of a significant risk but proceeded anyway – it still qualifies as hazing.
• “Consent” is Not a Defense: This is a critical point. As per Texas Education Code § 37.155, even if the student being hazed “consented” to the activity, it does not absolve the perpetrators or the organization of liability. This acknowledges the inherent power dynamic and peer pressure present in hazing situations.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing in Texas:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Most hazing offenses that do not result in serious injury fall into this category, carrying penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical attention, the penalty can escalate to a Class A misdemeanor.
• State Jail Felony: In tragic cases where hazing results in serious bodily injury or death, the offense becomes a state jail felony, carrying much more severe penalties, including prison time.

Additionally, Texas law makes it a misdemeanor for individuals who knew about hazing and failed to report it, or for those who retaliate against someone who reports hazing.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It’s important to understand the two distinct legal avenues when hazing occurs:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated and pursued by the state or government (e.g., district attorney’s office). Their primary goal is to punish the accused for violating the law through fines, imprisonment, or probation. In hazing, criminal charges might include hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or even manslaughter or negligent homicide in fatal incidents.
• Civil Cases: These are typically brought by the victims (or their families in wrongful death cases) against the individuals and entities responsible for the harm. The main objective of a civil lawsuit is to obtain monetary compensation for damages suffered, as well as to achieve accountability and deter future misconduct. Civil claims often involve allegations of negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, or premises liability.

A crucial point for Rhode Island families is that these two types of cases can proceed independently. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for pursuing a civil lawsuit, meaning victims can still seek justice and compensation even if criminal charges are never filed or do not result in a conviction.

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

Beyond state laws, federal regulations also impact how hazing incidents are addressed, particularly at institutions receiving federal funding.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant piece of legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal financial assistance improve their hazing prevention and response. Key provisions include:
  • Increased transparency by requiring institutions to publicly report all findings of hazing violations.
  • Strengthening hazing education and prevention programs for students.
  • Maintaining publicly accessible data on confirmed hazing incidents and their resolutions. These provisions are being phased in, with full compliance expected by 2026.
• Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, it can trigger a university’s Title IX obligations. This means institutions must investigate and respond promptly and effectively to address such conduct.
• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. While hazing is not a Clery-reportable crime category in itself, incidents of hazing often involve underlying crimes (e.g., assault, alcohol violations) that are Clery-reportable, thereby bringing hazing-related issues under federal reporting requirements.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Obtaining justice and compensation in a hazing case often involves holding multiple parties accountable. Civil lawsuits can target a range of individuals and entities:

• Individual Students: These are the members who directly planned, carried out, or participated in the hazing acts. This includes those who supplied alcohol, physically assaulted a pledge, or orchestrated humiliating rituals.
• Local Chapter / Organization: The student organization itself (e.g., the local fraternity or sorority chapter, club, or team) can be held liable. This is particularly true if the hazing was endorsed by chapter officers or if there was a known pattern of hazing within the group.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters of Greek-letter organizations can be held liable. Their liability often hinges on whether they knew or should have known about hazing within their chapters from prior incidents (pattern evidence), their failure to adequately supervise or enforce anti-hazing policies, and their control over local chapters.
• University or Governing Board: Colleges and universities may be sued under various theories, including:
  • Negligence: For failing to adequately supervise student organizations, enforce their own anti-hazing policies, or respond to prior warnings about hazing.
  • Gross Negligence: For acting with a conscious indifference to the safety of students.
  • Premises Liability: If the hazing occurred on university property where the school had a duty to maintain a safe environment.
  • Civil Rights Violations: In cases involving Title IX or other federal statutes.
• Third Parties: Other entities can sometimes be drawn into hazing lawsuits:
  • Landlords/Property Owners: If the hazing occurred at a privately-owned house (e.g., a fraternity house) where the owner knew or should have known about dangerous activities.
  • Alcohol Providers: Bars, liquor stores, or individuals who illegally furnished alcohol to minors involved in hazing may face “dram shop” liability.
  • Event Organizers or Security Companies: If they were contracted for an event where hazing occurred and failed to provide adequate oversight.

While each case is unique and liability depends heavily on the specific facts, experienced hazing attorneys know how to identify all potentially liable parties to ensure comprehensive accountability and maximize the chances of fair compensation for victims.

NATIONAL HAZING CASE PATTERNS (ANCHOR STORIES)

The headlines often focus on the latest tragedy, but a hard look at hazing reveals a disturbing, predictable pattern of behaviors and institutional failures that have played out across the nation for decades. These national cases, though occurring outside of Texas, set critical legal precedents and demonstrate the types of risks that families in Rhode Island and throughout Texas must be aware of. They underscore the concept of foreseeability – proving that national organizations and institutions knew or should have known the dangers posed by hazing.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption remains the single deadliest form of hazing. Time and again, young lives are lost because of outdated, senseless drinking rituals.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In a case that shocked the nation, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after a “bid acceptance” event involving extreme alcohol consumption. Horrifying surveillance footage from the fraternity house revealed that Piazza suffered multiple falls and injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, but fraternity brothers delayed calling for help for nearly 12 hours. This delay proved fatal. The tragedy led to numerous criminal charges against fraternity members, civil litigation, and the creation of Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.
  • Takeaway: This case vividly illustrated how extreme intoxication, a callous delay in calling 911, and a pervasive culture of silence and cover-up directly contribute to tragic outcomes and escalate legal liability.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Just months after the Piazza tragedy, 20-year-old Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother night.” Pledges were reportedly given bottles of hard liquor and pressured to consume them quickly. While criminal charges were brought against several members, his family filed a wrongful death lawsuit.
  • Takeaway: Coffey’s death highlighted the dangers of formulaic “tradition” drinking nights that are often designed to get pledges dangerously intoxicated, a repeating script for disaster that national fraternities are well aware of.
• Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): In another alcohol-related hazing death, 18-year-old Max Gruver died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game at the Phi Delta Theta house. Pledges were forced to drink whenever they answered questions incorrectly. One member was later convicted of negligent homicide. Gruver’s death spurred the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making felony hazing a reality in the state.
  • Takeaway: This case demonstrated that legislative change and stronger felony hazing laws often follow public outcry when there is clear, undeniable evidence of hazing, forcing a re-evaluation of accountability for organizations.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Another “Big/Little” night turned fatal when 20-year-old Stone Foltz was allegedly forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol. He died of alcohol poisoning. His family later reached a $10 million settlement split between the Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and Bowling Green State University. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, with several being convicted.
  • Takeaway: The Foltz case demonstrated that universities can be held financially liable alongside national fraternities when their oversight is deemed negligent. It also reinforced that individual fraternity officers can face severe personal financial judgments, not just the organization itself.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical hazing and ritualized violence continue to cause severe injury and death, often in attempts to perpetuate “traditions.”

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, an 18-year-old pledge, died after participating in a brutal “glass ceiling” ritual at an off-campus retreat in the Pocono Mountains. Blindfolded and weighted down with a backpack, he was repeatedly tackled by fraternity brothers. The national fraternity and individuals attempted to cover up the incident and delayed calling for help. The Pi Delta Psi national fraternity was later criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and permanently banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years.
  • Takeaway: This landmark case proved that off-campus retreats are not safe havens from hazing liability, and national organizations can face severe criminal penalties for the actions of their chapters. It highlighted the devastating consequences of delayed medical intervention and systematic cover-ups.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not confined to Greek life; it is a pervasive issue within athletic programs, often justified under the guise of “team building” or “coaching discipline.”

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): In a recent wide-ranging scandal, former Northwestern football players came forward with allegations of widespread sexualized, racist, and abusive hazing within the program spanning multiple years. The incidents included forced naked center snaps, simulated sexual acts, and racial discrimination. The revelations led to the firing of the longtime head coach, Pat Fitzgerald, numerous lawsuits against the university and coaching staff, and a confidential settlement with Fitzgerald.
  • Takeaway: This scandal vividly illustrated that hazing can flourish unchecked even in prestigious, high-profile athletic programs, leading to significant institutional liability and reputational damage. It demonstrated that universities have a legal obligation to protect all students, not just those in Greek life.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These harrowing national cases share common, horrifying threads: forced alcohol consumption (often to unconsciousness or death), physical humiliation and assault, deliberate delays in seeking urgent medical attention, and systematic attempts to cover up the truth. The pattern is clear: hazing is a predictable, recurring danger.

These tragedies, often resulting in multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts, fuel a growing demand for accountability from individuals, national organizations, and universities. For families in Rhode Island whose children attend, or plan to attend, universities in Texas—including the University of Houston, Texas A&M, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, or Baylor—these national lessons are directly relevant. They operate in a legal landscape shaped by these precedents, where the elements of foreseeability, negligence, and gross negligence are key to holding perpetrators accountable. When these patterns repeat in Texas, it provides strong evidence that institutions and organizations knew or should have known the risks.

TEXAS FOCUS: UH, TEXAS A&M, UT, SMU, BAYLOR

For families in Rhode Island and throughout Texas, understanding the campus culture, policies, and hazing history of specific Texas universities is paramount. Each institution has its unique environment, but the risk of hazing remains a constant concern.

University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant and diverse institution located in the heart of the nation’s fourth-largest city, is a prime example of a modern urban campus with a dynamic student body. Many Rhode Island families send their children to UH to experience its robust academic programs and diverse student life. However, like any large university, it is not immune to the challenges of hazing.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH serves a massive student population, creating a microcosm of diverse backgrounds and aspirations. An active Greek life, comprising fraternities and sororities from various councils, contributes significantly to the campus social scene. Beyond Greek organizations, numerous student associations, cultural groups, and competitive sports teams thrive, offering a rich tapestry of extracurricular engagement. The university’s central Houston location means a mix of residential and commuter students, with many off-campus activities blurring the lines between university oversight and private student life. This sprawling environment presents unique challenges for monitoring student conduct and preventing hazing.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly stating its prohibition on any act that falls under the Texas Education Code definition of hazing. This policy applies whether activities occur on or off campus, and regardless of whether the organization is formally recognized by the university. UH explicitly forbids physical mistreatment, forced consumption of alcohol/drugs/food, sleep deprivation, and any actions causing mental distress as part of initiation or membership.

Reporting channels at UH include the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). The university also typically provides resources for anonymous reporting through its website, encouraging students to come forward without fear of retaliation.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

While UH does not maintain a publicly detailed violation log like some other Texas universities, past incidents have come to light through media reports and legal actions:

• Pi Kappa Alpha Incident (2016): One significant incident involved allegations against the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Pledges were reportedly subjected to multi-day events involving significant sleep, food, and water deprivation. One student allegedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being violently slammed onto a table during these activities. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and a period of university suspension.
• Subsequent Disciplinary Actions: Internal records and occasional public statements from UH have indicated ongoing disciplinary actions against various fraternities and sororities for behaviors deemed to be hazing. These often involve alcohol misuse, physical endurance tests, and activities “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort.” Such incidents typically result in temporary suspensions, probation, and mandatory educational programs for the chapters involved. The relative lack of detailed public violation logs for UH means that a student or family would have to actively seek this information or obtain it through legal discovery.

How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Rhode Island families facing a hazing incident at UH, the legal process will involve navigating both university channels and the broader Houston legal system. Depending on the nature and severity of the hazing, criminal investigations could be launched by UHPD or, if the incident occurred off-campus, by the Houston Police Department. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Harris County courts, given the university’s location.

Potential defendants in a UH hazing case could include the individual students involved, the local fraternity or sorority chapter, the national organization, property owners (if off-campus), and potentially the university itself, depending on evidence of negligence or deliberate indifference. Expert legal counsel would delve into the history of complaints against the chapter, the university’s response (or lack thereof), and the enforcement of its own policies.

What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For students and parents at the University of Houston:

• Know the Reporting Channels: Familiarize yourself with how to report hazing to the Dean of Students Office, UHPD, or through the university’s anonymous reporting mechanisms.
• Document Everything: If you suspect or experience hazing, diligently document all details: dates, times, locations, individuals involved, specific behaviors, and any physical or emotional toll.
• Preserve Digital Evidence: Immediately screenshot any relevant group chats, text messages, social media posts, or photos. Digital evidence is often the strongest proof in hazing cases.
• Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize health. If injured, seek medical care and inform doctors that the injuries may be hazing-related to ensure proper documentation.
• Contact Local Legal Expertise: Given that hazing cases against UH, its Greek organizations, and involved individuals must proceed through Houston-based courts and regulatory bodies, consulting a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases is essential. They will be familiar with both the local legal landscape and the specific nuances of past UH incidents.

Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, located in College Station, is a venerable institution renowned for its unique traditions, deep-seated pride, and its iconic Corps of Cadets. While many Rhode Island families are drawn to A&M for its strong engineering and agricultural programs, its tradition-rich environment also presents a complex backdrop for hazing.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

A&M embodies a distinct and powerful culture, heavily influenced by its military roots, the venerated Aggie Spirit, and the nearly 70,000 students who call it home. The Corps of Cadets is a central pillar, fostering discipline and camaraderie, but also strict hierarchical structures that can be exploited for hazing. Greek life is also very active, providing another prominent social avenue. The emphasis on tradition and loyalty, while generally positive, can create an environment where questionable “rituals” are protected by a code of silence, making hazing difficult to identify and address.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M unequivocally prohibits hazing, adhering strictly to the Texas Education Code definition. Their policy extends to all recognized and unrecognized student organizations, on or off campus. The university outlines clear prohibitions against physical abuse, forced consumption, sleep deprivation, intimidation, and any acts that could endanger mental or physical health.

Reporting channels are managed through the Division of Student Affairs, with specific processes handled by the Office of Student Conduct and the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMU PD). A&M also offers anonymous reporting options online, encouraging individuals to report concerns without fear.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced its share of hazing allegations and incidents, some of which have drawn significant media attention:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Chemical Burns Case (circa 2021): This particularly egregious incident involved allegations that two pledges of the SAE fraternity were subjected to a hazing ritual where they were doused with a mixture containing industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit. This resulted in severe chemical burns that required extensive medical treatment, including skin graft surgeries. The pledges filed a lawsuit against the fraternity, and the chapter was suspended by the university.
• Corps of Cadets Hazing (2023): A federal lawsuit brought by a former cadet alleged deeply disturbing hazing practices within the Corps. The detailed claims included forced participation in degrading acts, such as simulated sexual acts, and being bound in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The university’s response emphasized that such conduct was against its values and policies, leading to internal disciplinary actions.
• Aggie Bonfire Collapse (1999): While not traditional hazing, the tragic collapse of the Aggie Bonfire, which killed 12 students and injured 27, raised profound questions about student-led high-risk activities and institutional oversight. The legal fallout, including multi-million dollar settlements, forced a re-evaluation of the university’s responsibility for student traditions and activities, even those long-standing and deeply cherished.

How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

Families from Rhode Island involved in a hazing incident at Texas A&M would find their civil cases proceeding through Brazos County courts, where College Station is located. Criminal investigations might involve TAMU PD or local College Station authorities.

The history of high-profile incidents at A&M, particularly within the Corps and certain fraternities, means that an experienced legal team would closely examine the university’s prior knowledge of these long-standing “traditions” and its effectiveness in enforcing anti-hazing policies, especially with an eye toward pattern evidence.

What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

For students and parents involved with Texas A&M:

• Understand the Culture: Be aware of A&M’s unique traditions, especially within the Corps and Greek life. Distinguish between harmless traditions and those that cross into hazing.
• Utilize Reporting Mechanisms: Use Texas A&M’s official reporting channels, including the Office of Student Conduct or TAMU PD. There are also anonymous options available.
• Document Everything Thoroughly: Preserve all evidence including digital communications, injury photos, and detailed notes. The statute of limitations, especially in cases of severe injury or wrongful death, means that prompt action is critical.
• Consult Independent Counsel: Given the strong local identity and culture at A&M, and the university’s significant resources, seeking independent legal counsel, particularly an attorney experienced in hazing cases in Texas, is advisable. They can provide an objective assessment and protect your rights.

University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution in the state, is a hub of academic excellence and dynamic student life. For Rhode Island families, UT Austin represents a premier educational opportunity for their children, but the active social scene, including Greek life and numerous student organizations, also carries inherent risks of hazing.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin draws students from across Texas, the nation, and the world, fostering a vibrant and competitive environment. Its Greek community is one of the largest and most influential in the state, alongside numerous spirit organizations, traditions groups (like the Texas Cowboys), and a fiercely proud athletic culture. This energetic setting, coupled with a strong emphasis on student leadership and independence, means that social activities are often large and can, unfortunately, provide cover for hazing practices. The lines between “tradition,” “party culture,” and “hazing” can become dangerously blurred, creating a challenge for both students and the university.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Texas at Austin maintains a clear and comprehensive anti-hazing policy, explicitly outlining prohibited conduct as defined by Texas law. This includes any acts that endanger mental or physical health for the purpose of initiation or affiliation, regardless of whether the activities occur on or off campus, or if the organization is officially recognized. UT Austin emphasizes that consent to hazing is not a defense against violations.

The university provides various avenues for reporting hazing, including the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD). Crucially, UT Austin also maintains a publicly accessible Hazing Violations page on its website, providing greater transparency about past incidents and disciplinary actions against student organizations.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public hazing log provides valuable insight into the types of incidents that occur and the university’s responses:

• Pi Kappa Alpha Incident (2023): Among numerous entries, the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity was found responsible for hazing activities where new members were directed to consume milk and engage in strenuous calisthenics. This led to a period of probation for the chapter and a requirement to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Texas Cowboys Incidents (Recurring): The Texas Cowboys, a well-known spirit organization, has appeared on the hazing log multiple times. Incidents have ranged from “forced workouts,” “alcohol-related hazing,” and various “punishment-based practices” that endanger student well-being. The pattern of violations for this and other “traditions” groups underscores the challenge of addressing deeply entrenched rituals that are passed down through generations of students.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Allegations (2024): In a recent lawsuit, an Australian exchange student alleged assault by members of the SAE fraternity at a party, resulting in severe injuries including a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, a fractured tibia, and a broken nose. This incident occurred while the SAE chapter was reportedly already under suspension for prior hazing and safety violations, highlighting a pattern of continued misconduct despite institutional sanctions.

How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Rhode Island families involved in a hazing incident at UT Austin, civil lawsuits would be pursued in Travis County courts, with potential criminal investigations handled by UTPD or the Austin Police Department.

The transparency provided by UT Austin’s public hazing log is a significant factor in legal strategy. Prior violations listed on this log can serve as strong evidence of pattern, foreseeability, and institutional knowledge of problematic behavior within specific organizations. This publicly available data can be critical in bolstering claims of negligence or gross negligence against the university and national organizations.

What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

For students and parents connected to UT Austin:

• Review the Hazing Violations Log: Before joining any organization, consult UT Austin’s public hazing log to review its disciplinary history.
• Understand Reporting: Be aware of how to report hazing to the Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, UTPD, or through anonymous resources.
• Document and Preserve: Immediately capture all digital evidence (screenshots, photos, videos) and medical records. Detailed, contemporaneous notes are invaluable.
• Consult an Austin-based Hazing Attorney: Given the complexities of hazing litigation and the specific judicial context of Travis County, contacting a lawyer with experience in hazing cases in Austin and central Texas is highly recommended. Attorney911 operates directly in Austin and can help navigate the specific legal and cultural landscape of UT Austin.

Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a private university nestled in an affluent Dallas neighborhood, holds a distinct reputation for academic rigor and a vibrant, highly social student body. For Rhode Island families, SMU offers a prestigious educational experience, but its prominent Greek life and social scene necessitate vigilance regarding hazing practices.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU’s campus culture is characterized by strong social traditions, with Greek life playing a particularly central role. The fraternities and sororities at SMU are highly visible and influential, attracting a significant portion of the student body. The university’s private status, while offering some advantages, also contributes to a culture that can sometimes be more insular, making instances of hazing less likely to be immediately public. The pressure to conform and be accepted into these prominent social circles can be immense, creating fertile ground for hazing.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains a strict anti-hazing policy that aligns with Texas state law, unequivocally prohibiting any acts that endanger mental or physical health for initiation or affiliation into any campus organization. Their policy emphasizes that hazing is defined by the conduct itself, not by the “intent” of the perpetrators or the “consent” of the victim.

Reporting channels at SMU include the Office of the Dean of Students, specific conduct offices for Greek life, and the SMU Police Department. Anonymous reporting mechanisms, such as online forms and tip lines, are also available, emphasizing the university’s commitment to encouraging students to come forward.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

While SMU is typically less transparent about specific hazing incidents compared to public universities like UT Austin, notable cases have emerged:

• Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): One widely reported incident involved the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity. Allegations included that new members were paddled, forced to consume excessive amounts of alcohol, and subjected to sleep deprivation. The university launched an investigation, resulting in the suspension of the chapter for several years and severe restrictions on its future recruitment activities.
• Other Disciplinary Actions: Internal SMU records, though not publicly detailed, reflect that numerous organizations have faced disciplinary action for hazing, ranging from minor infractions to serious violations involving alcohol and physical misconduct. These incidents often highlight a struggle to enforce policies rigidly within a socially powerful Greek system.

How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Rhode Island families dealing with hazing at SMU, civil lawsuits would be filed in Dallas County courts. Criminal investigations would fall under the jurisdiction of the SMU Police Department or the Dallas Police Department, depending on the nature and location of the incident.

As a private institution, SMU’s internal disciplinary records and investigation files are not typically subject to public information requests in the same way as those of public universities. This means that an attorney pursuing a civil case would likely need to utilize subpoenas and the discovery process to compel the university and the fraternity to produce relevant documents and communications. This emphasizes the importance of legal expertise in navigating such complex legal landscapes.

What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

For students and parents connected to SMU:

• Research Organization History: While SMU’s hazing logs may be less public, investigate the history of any organization your child is considering, including national and local chapter reputations.
• Understand Reporting: Be aware of SMU’s reporting mechanisms and the protections in place for those who report hazing.
• Document and Preserve: Due to the private nature of the university, it is even more critical for students and parents to meticulously document all evidence independently. Screenshots, personal notes, and medical records are vital.
• Consult Dallas-based Legal Counsel: An attorney with experience in Dallas-based hazing cases and familiarity with private university operations would be beneficial. They understand how to compel discovery from private institutions and fight the often vigorous defenses mounted by well-resourced universities and national fraternities. Attorney911 operates directly in Dallas, Texas.

Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Baptist university located in Waco, Texas, is deeply rooted in its Christian faith and values. Many Rhode Island families are drawn to Baylor for its academic reputation and strong community spirit. However, the university, like all others, faces challenges with student conduct, including hazing, which can sometimes contradict its stated mission and values.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor’s culture is distinctive, emphasizing Christian principles, community, and service. Greek life is present, alongside numerous religious, academic, and athletic organizations. The university has a strong emphasis on tradition, which, in some instances, has unfortunately been misinterpreted or misused to justify hazing. The desire to belong within a close-knit community, especially one with strong faith-based ties, can create unique pressures for students to conform to group behavior, even when it involves harmful initiation practices.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University has a clear “zero tolerance” policy for hazing, explicitly prohibiting any actions that endanger the mental or physical health or safety of a student for initiation, affiliation, or membership. Their policy states that hazing is fundamentally inconsistent with Baylor’s Christian mission and values. The university actively promotes awareness of hazing prevention, and its policy extends to all student organizations, whether recognized or unrecognized, on or off campus.

Reporting channels include the Baylor University Police Department, the Division of Student Life, the Office of Student Conduct, and various anonymous reporting options available through the university’s website. Baylor encourages all members of its community to report hazing immediately.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor University has faced notable hazing incidents, often highlighting a tension between institutional values and student conduct:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): This incident involved the university’s baseball team, leading to the suspension of 14 players. The hazing allegations involved multiple team rituals and activities that violated university policy. The suspensions were staggered to allow the team to compete, but the incident drew criticism and highlighted the persistence of hazing even in non-Greek athletic contexts within a faith-based institution.
• Past Fraternity Disciplinary Actions: While detailed public hazing logs are not readily available from Baylor, internal disciplinary actions have been taken against various fraternities for hazing violations over the years. These range from alcohol violations and forced physical activities to events that compromise student safety and dignity. The private nature of the university means that a comprehensive understanding of these incidents often requires legal discovery.
• Broader Institutional Scrutiny: Baylor has faced significant institutional challenges in the past, including major investigations into its handling of sexual assault cases within its athletic department, particularly involving the football program. These events prompted a critical re-evaluation of institutional oversight, transparency, and accountability, which are relevant considerations when addressing other forms of student misconduct like hazing.

How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Rhode Island families dealing with hazing at Baylor, civil lawsuits would typically proceed in McLennan County courts (Waco is the county seat). Criminal investigations could involve the Baylor University Police Department or the Waco Police Department.

Similar to SMU, as a private institution, Baylor’s internal records regarding hazing incidents are not always publicly accessible. Legal counsel would need to aggressively pursue discovery to uncover relevant documents, communications, and evidence of prior misconduct or institutional failures. The specific legal strategies would consider Baylor’s unique institutional structure and its history of facing scrutiny over student safety.

What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

For students and parents connected to Baylor University:

• Engage with Baylor’s Policies: Understand Baylor’s strong stance against hazing and its reporting mechanisms, including the anonymous options.
• Prioritize Safety and Documentation: As with any hazing concern, immediately act to ensure safety, seek medical attention for injuries, and meticulously document all evidence.
• Consider Independent Legal Advice: Given Baylor’s private status and history of navigating complex student conduct issues, seeking legal counsel independent of the university can be crucial. An attorney experienced in Texas hazing cases can help ensure your rights are protected and that all avenues for accountability are explored.

FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES: CAMPUS-SPECIFIC + NATIONAL HISTORIES

For families in Rhode Island, understanding the extensive reach and sometimes tragic history of Greek-letter organizations is key to protecting their children at Texas universities. Fraternities and sororities often operate under national charters, and the behaviors seen in one chapter can tragically echo across others, highlighting patterns of misconduct that inform legal strategy.

Why National Histories Matter

The vast majority of fraternities and sororities at universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor are chapters of larger national organizations. While these national bodies often publicly condemn hazing and have explicit anti-hazing policies, their very existence—and the severity of these policies—is often a direct consequence of repeated incidents, injuries, and deaths at their various chapters across the country.

• Pattern Evidence: National headquarters are typically well-aware of specific hazing rituals that occur, or have occurred, within their system. When a Texas chapter perpetrates a “tradition” that previously led to injury or death at another chapter in a different state, attorneys can argue that the national organization had foreseeability. They knew, or should have known, that such an activity was dangerous, yet failed to prevent it.
• Policy and Enforcement: National HQs collect dues, provide training, send advisors, and have the authority to suspend or revoke chapter charters. If a national organization has publicly available anti-hazing manuals but consistently fails to effectively enforce them, or if its disciplinary actions for past violations have been minimal, it can be held liable for negligence in civil lawsuits.
• Insurance Coverage: National fraternities and sororities carry liability insurance. Part of a legal strategy involves piercing through the “rogue chapter” defense often advanced by nationals and demonstrating that their central body bears responsibility.

Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

While it’s impossible to list every single fraternity and sorority chapter found at Texas universities, certain national organizations have unfortunately been linked to recurrent hazing problems, influencing the risk landscape for students across the country and in Texas.

Many fraternities and sororities present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor include chapters of organizations like Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi, Kappa Alpha Order, Sigma Chi, and others. Their histories are critical:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike): Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha has faced multiple hazing-related lawsuits, including the tragic 2021 alcohol poisoning death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University, which resulted in a $10 million settlement and criminal convictions. Another case involved the 2012 alcohol poisoning death of David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University, leading to a $14 million settlement. These patterns indicate a foreseeable risk of forced alcohol consumption.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): Often labeled “America’s deadliest fraternity” by some media outlets, SAE has a history marred by numerous hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide. This includes a traumatic brain injury lawsuit filed at the University of Alabama, and a severe chemical burns case at Texas A&M University (as discussed above). The national organization famously ended its 175-year-old pledging process in 2014 in an attempt to curb hazing, yet incidents continue to surface.
  • While SAE has taken steps to address hazing, its national notoriety implies a high degree of foreseeability regarding hazing risks across its chapters, including those at Texas institutions. We are NOT alleging that any specific Texas chapter has engaged in hazing, but parents should be aware of the national pattern.
• Phi Delta Theta (Phi Delt): This fraternity’s national history includes the highly publicized 2017 alcohol poisoning death of Max Gruver at Louisiana State University, which resulted in criminal convictions for some members and the passage of Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act. This case is a stark example of how dangerous “drinking games” can be lethal.
  • We are NOT alleging that any specific Texas chapter has engaged in hazing, but parents should be aware of the national pattern of alcohol-related hazing within this organization.
• Pi Kappa Phi (Pi Kapp): Nationally, Pi Kappa Phi has faced significant hazing litigation, notably the 2017 alcohol poisoning death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University during a “Big Brother night.”
  • We are NOT alleging that any specific Texas chapter has engaged in hazing, but parents should be aware of the national pattern of alcohol-related hazing within this organization.
• Kappa Alpha Order (KA): This historically southern fraternity has faced suspensions and legal actions for hazing at various campuses nationwide, including previously at Southern Methodist University (as discussed above), for incidents involving forced alcohol consumption, physical abuse, and humiliation.
  • We are NOT alleging that any specific Texas chapter has engaged in hazing, but parents should be aware of the national pattern.
• Sigma Chi: The national organization has faced very significant legal judgments, including a settlement of more than $10 million paid to a pledge who alleged severe physical beatings, forced alcohol/drug consumption, and psychological torment at a chapter at the College of Charleston in 2024. This demonstrates the immense financial penalties for severe hazing that results in lasting harm.
  • We are NOT alleging that any specific Texas chapter has engaged in hazing, but parents should be aware of the national pattern.
• Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI): This fraternity is linked to one of the most severe non-fatal hazing incidents in recent history: the 2021 case of Danny Santulli at the University of Missouri, who suffered permanent, catastrophic brain damage after forced alcohol consumption. His family settled with 22 defendants for multi-million-dollar amounts.
  • We are NOT alleging that any specific Texas chapter has engaged in hazing, but parents should be aware of the national pattern.

This is not an exhaustive list, but it highlights that many fraternities and sororities, including those with chapters throughout Texas, share a national history of hazing incidents that parents should investigate.

Tie back to Legal Strategy

The documented national histories of these organizations are paramount in building a robust legal case. When a hazing incident occurs at a Texas chapter:

• Foreseeability: Attorneys can argue that the national organization had clear foreseeability or prior notice of dangerous hazing methods because similar incidents had occurred at its chapters elsewhere. They knew, or should have known, the risks, and thus had a duty to implement more stringent preventative measures or oversight.
• Negligent Supervision: If national organizations had inadequate policies, allowed chapters to continue operating despite prior warnings, or failed to properly train advisors and members on hazing prevention, it strengthens claims of negligent supervision.
• Damages: Evidence of a national pattern of ignoring hazing can also support arguments for punitive damages, which are designed to punish egregious conduct and deter similar actions in the future, if the evidence of gross negligence on the part of the national organization or its leadership is clear and convincing.
• Insurance Coverage: High-profile national incidents often result in substantial lawsuits, forcing national organizations to leverage their significant insurance policies. However, some insurers may initially try to deny coverage by claiming “intentional acts” by local members are not covered. An experienced attorney knows how to challenge these denials by focusing on the national organization’s negligent supervision in failing to prevent such acts.

BUILDING A CASE: EVIDENCE, DAMAGES, STRATEGY

For families across Rhode Island and all of Texas, facing the aftermath of hazing is a traumatic experience. Pursuing a legal case may seem daunting, but with the right legal team, it becomes a strategic process of uncovering the truth, establishing accountability, and seeking justice. Building a strong hazing case in 2025 relies heavily on meticulous evidence collection, a clear understanding of potential damages, and a sophisticated legal strategy.

Evidence

Modern hazing cases are often won or lost based on the quality and quantity of evidence. Digital communications, in particular, have revolutionized the investigative process.

• Digital Communications: These are often the most critical pieces of evidence.
  • GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and fraternity-specific Apps: Hazing is frequently planned, executed, and discussed in these encrypted or private group chats. Messages can reveal planning, intent, specific instructions for hazing activities, and admissions of guilt, or even cover-up attempts. 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.
  • Screenshots are Gold: Victims or concerned members who take screenshots of conversations when they occur provide invaluable, authentic evidence. These should capture full threads, including sender names, timestamps, and context.
  • Recovered/Deleted Messages: Even if messages are deleted, digital forensics experts can often recover them from device backups, cloud services, or even the servers of the messaging platforms themselves, especially with a court order.
• Photos & Videos:
  • Caught in the Act: Student-captured photos or videos that show hazing in progress, injuries, or humiliating acts are extremely powerful. This content is often shared within group chats or private social media.
  • Surveillance Footage: Security cameras (from the university, nearby businesses, rental properties, or even home Ring/doorbell cameras) can capture individuals arriving at or leaving hazing events, or even the incidents themselves.
• Internal Organization Documents: Subpoenas in a civil lawsuit can compel fraternities, sororities, and universities to release internal documents.
  • Pledge Manuals/Ritual Books: These can outline “traditions” that, when examined closely, are clear hazing.
  • Communications: Emails or texts among officers about event planning, or requests for funds for hazing-related activities.
  • Anti-Hazing Policies and Training Materials: These are used to show what the organization knew it should be doing versus what it actually did.
• University Records: Public universities like UT Austin, Texas A&M, and UH are subject to open records requests (though often requiring a lawsuit for full release). Private universities like SMU and Baylor require subpoenas.
  • Prior Conduct Files: Documented history of hazing violations, probations, or suspensions for the specific chapter or even individuals. These show a pattern of misconduct and the university’s prior knowledge.
  • Incident Reports: Reports from campus police or student conduct offices regarding previous issues.
  • Clery Act and Title IX Records: These federal reporting documents can reveal institutional knowledge of crime patterns, including hazing-related assaults or discrimination.
• Medical and Psychological Records: Crucial for documenting the extent of the harm.
  • ER and Hospital Records: Document physical injuries, alcohol poisoning, drug overdose, and the immediate aftermath of hazing.
  • Specialist Notes: Records from surgeons, physical therapists, neurologists, or nephrologists (for rhabdomyolysis cases) detail the physical consequences.
  • Psychological Evaluations: Diagnoses of PTSD, major depressive disorder, anxiety, or suicidal ideation directly link mental health struggles to the hazing.
• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are often deeply compelling.
  • Pledges and Members: Testimony from past or current pledges, other members (especially those who have left the organization), or former members can provide crucial insider information.
  • Bystanders: Roommates, RAs, coaches, or even bar staff who observed parts of the incident can corroborate facts.

Damages

The goal of a civil hazing lawsuit is to recover damages—monetary compensation for the harm suffered. This covers both tangible financial losses and intangible suffering.

• Economic Damages: These are quantifiable financial losses.
  • Medical Expenses: Past bills for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing therapy (physical, occupational, speech for brain injuries). For catastrophic injuries, a “life care plan” projects future medical needs, potentially totaling millions.
  • Lost Income & Earning Capacity: This can include wages lost while recovering, as well as the long-term impact on a student’s ability to earn income if they suffer permanent injuries or their education is severely disrupted. This category also covers lost scholarships and tuition for missed semesters.
  • Other Direct Costs: Property damage during hazing (e.g., cell phone destroyed), or the financial costs of having to transfer universities due to trauma.
• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for pain and suffering, which are harder to quantify but no less real.
  • Physical Pain & Suffering: For the acute pain of injuries and any chronic pain resulting from hazing.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: This covers the profound mental health impact, including diagnoses of PTSD, anxiety, depression, humiliation, shame, loss of dignity, and fear. Psychological records are vital here.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: This compensates for the inability to participate in activities, hobbies, or social life as before, and the overall diminishment of the college experience due to trauma.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In the most tragic cases, families can seek compensation for the loss of their loved one. This includes funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and profound non-economic losses such as the loss of companionship, love, guidance, and the grief and suffering of the surviving family members (parents, siblings, spouse). Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic cases.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of particularly egregious, reckless, or malicious conduct, punitive damages may be sought. These are designed to punish the defendants and deter future hazing, and can significantly increase the total award.

Strategy

Building a successful hazing case requires a multi-faceted approach, anticipating the defenses of powerful institutions.

• Identify All Liable Parties: A thorough investigation identifies not just the direct perpetrators, but also the local chapter, the national organization, university officials, and potentially property owners.
• Overcome “Consent” Defense: Experienced attorneys counter arguments of “consent” by highlighting the coercive nature of hazing and the power imbalances involved. Texas A&M’s prior history with the Corps of Cadets, for example, illustrates how “tradition” can blur into coercion.
• Defeat “Rogue Chapter” Arguments: National fraternities often claim a local chapter acted independently. Attorneys challenge this by using pattern evidence from other chapters nationwide, showing prior warnings, an established history of similar hazing, or a failure to adequately supervise.
• Navigate Insurance Coverage: Fraternities and universities are often heavily insured. Navigating these complex policies and fighting insurers who try to deny coverage is a key part of the strategy. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is crucial for managing these disputes, as she understands the insurance industry’s playbook from the inside.
• Prepare for Criminal and Civil Tracks: Often, hazing incidents lead to both criminal charges and civil lawsuits. An attorney experienced in both areas (like Ralph Manginello, with his background in criminal defense) can provide comprehensive counsel, ensuring one legal path doesn’t inadvertently harm the other. 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.
• Focus on Accountability and Prevention: Beyond monetary damages, a well-executed legal strategy aims for systemic change within organizations and institutions, ensuring that what happened to one student won’t happen to another.

PRACTICAL GUIDES & FAQS

Addressing hazing is a challenging journey, but families in Rhode Island and throughout Texas don’t have to navigate it alone. Here are practical guides and answers to common questions for parents, students, and witnesses.

For Parents

Parents in Rhode Island sending their children to Texas universities should educate themselves on the warning signs and proper response to suspected hazing.

• Warning Signs of Hazing:
  • Unexplained Injuries: Look for bruises, cuts, burns, or repeated “accidents” with vague explanations.
  • Sudden Exhaustion: Extreme fatigue, significant sleep deprivation, or falling asleep frequently, often due to late-night “mandatory” events.
  • Drastic Mood Changes: Anxiety, depression, irritability, withdrawal from friends and family, or sudden secrecy about activities.
  • Digital Obsession: Constant checking of phones for group chat updates, or sudden anxiety when the phone rings or pings, indicating a demand for immediate response.
  • Academic Decline: Grades dropping, missed classes, or prioritizing “organization activities” over academics.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation calmly and with empathy. Emphasize their safety and well-being over loyalty to a group. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things going with your group?” or “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?” Reassure them you will support them, no matter what.
• If Your Child is Hurt: Immediately seek medical attention. As soon as is safe, document everything: take photos of injuries, screenshot texts, and write down what happened (who, what, when, where) while memory is fresh.
• Dealing with the University: Document all communications with university administrators. Ask for specific details about the university’s investigation process and any prior incidents involving the specific organization. An attorney can guide you through this, ensuring your child’s rights are protected.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child suffers significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing or hiding what happened, it’s time to consult with an attorney experienced in hazing cases.

For Students / Pledges

If you are a student in Rhode Island, whether you’re at the University of Rhode Island or a Texas institution, these insights can help you recognize and respond to hazing.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? If you are forced, coerced, or feel immense pressure to do something that makes you feel unsafe, humiliated, or physically uncomfortable; if you are required to drink harmful amounts of alcohol or endure physical pain; if the activity is hidden from outsiders or university administrators – then it is almost certainly hazing. “Tradition” does not justify abuse.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: Despite what some organizations may tell you, your “agreement” to participate in harmful activities is often not true legal consent due to the power dynamics, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion inherent in initiation periods. Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the right to leave any organization at any time, especially if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. You can report hazing to your university’s Dean of Students, Student Conduct office, or campus police. Many institutions, and national organizations, offer anonymous reporting options.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Most schools, and Texas law, have policies to encourage reporting by providing immunity or leniency to individuals who seek medical help for someone in an emergency, even if they were involved in underage drinking or hazing themselves. Your safety is the priority. Critical mistakes that can ruin your injury case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were once part of an organization that engaged in hazing, your voice can be pivotal.

• Your Role in Accountability: We understand the fear and the moral conflict that can arise from having witnessed or participated in hazing. Your truthful testimony and any evidence you possess can prevent future harm, save lives, and bring justice to victims.
• Navigating Disclosure: Coming forward can be complex. While your testimony is critical, you may also have legal questions about your own involvement. Seeking confidential legal counsel can help you understand your rights and obligations, and how to proceed in a manner that protects you while contributing to a just outcome.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

Rhode Island families need to be aware of common pitfalls that can undermine a hazing case. These mistakes, often made with good intentions, can significantly jeopardize a victim’s ability to seek justice and compensation.

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: Deleting evidence looks like a cover-up, can be considered obstruction of justice, and makes proving your case exponentially harder.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even if it’s embarrassing. Screenshots of group chats, texts, photos, and videos, no matter how minor they seem, are crucial. 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.
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 will almost certainly cause them to immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare robust defenses. You lose the element of surprise and further jeopardize your child.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in private, then contact a lawyer before any direct communication with the organization.
3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms:
   • What universities do: Institutions may pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements, often framed as a quick solution.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your fundamental legal rights to sue for damages. Such settlements are usually far below the actual value of your case.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or any organization without an experienced attorney reviewing it first.
4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer:
   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened and warn others.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys will screenshot everything you post, looking for inconsistencies that can hurt your child’s credibility. It can also unintentionally waive legal privileges.
   • What to do instead: Document privately and let your lawyer control any public messaging.
5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”:
   • What organizations say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic; let’s just clear this up.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This is a tactic to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can later be used against your case.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication with the organization should go 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: Critical evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, the statute of limitations continues to run, and the university primarily controls the narrative, often prioritizing its own reputation.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence immediately and consult a lawyer right away. Relying solely on the university’s internal process is not a substitute for independent legal action.
7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:
   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim and help your child.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters represent the insurance company’s interests, not yours. Any recorded statement can be used against you, and early settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with them and refer them to your attorney. Never give a recorded statement without legal counsel.

Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) generally have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions can apply for cases of gross negligence, Title IX violations, or when individual employees are sued in their personal capacity. 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?”
  Yes, it can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default. However, it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Additionally, individual officers of an organization and others involved can face criminal charges for failing to report hazing.
• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts and juries recognize that “agreement” given under peer pressure, a desire to belong, or fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.
• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  In Texas, the general statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases is two years from the date of injury or death. However, this period can be complex. For instance, the “discovery rule” might extend the deadline if the harm or its cause was not immediately apparent. In cases involving cover-ups or fraudulent concealment of hazing, the statute may be “tolled” (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears quickly, witnesses may become unavailable, and institutional records can be harder to recover over time. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to discuss your specific timeline. Learn about Texas statute of limitations in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of hazing does not eliminate liability. Many significant hazing cases, including those that resulted in criminal convictions and multi-million dollar judgments (like the Pi Delta Psi retreat case in Pennsylvania or the Sigma Pi incident at an unofficial house in Ohio), occurred off-campus. Universities and national organizations can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge of off-campus activities, and their failure to prevent foreseeable harm.
• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Client privacy is paramount. Most hazing cases settle confidentially before going to trial. Our firm can request sealed court records and negotiate confidential settlement terms to protect your family’s privacy interests while still pursuing accountability.

ABOUT THE MANGINELLO LAW FIRM + CALL TO ACTION

When your family in Rhode Island, or anywhere in Texas, faces the devastating impact of hazing, you need more than just a general personal injury lawyer. You need skilled, experienced attorneys who understand the intricate legal landscape of hazing, how powerful institutions fight back, and how to strategize for genuine accountability.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases

At The Manginello Law Firm, operating as Attorney911, we are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ ready to step in when you need us most. Our Houston-based firm is uniquely qualified to handle complex hazing litigation, drawing on a potent combination of inside industry knowledge and battle-tested trial experience against formidable opponents. From our Houston office, we serve families across Greater Houston, Harris County, and throughout Texas, understanding that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Rhode Island and across the region.

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings an invaluable perspective to hazing cases. As a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm, she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies operate. She understands their delay tactics, their arguments for denying coverage, and their settlement playbooks because she used to be on their side. Her insight is crucial when navigating the complex world of insurance disputes in hazing claims, giving our clients a distinct edge. Lupe Peña’s complete career details are available at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has a proven track record in high-stakes litigation against some of the largest corporations. He was one of the few Texas firms involved in the massive BP Texas City explosion litigation, demonstrating our ability to effectively challenge billion-dollar entities. Our extensive experience in federal court, including the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, major universities, or their heavily resourced defense teams. We build cases that force accountability, not just cheap settlements. Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials and case history are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: Our firm has consistently secured multi-million dollar results for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. Hazing often results in devastating injuries such as traumatic brain injury, acute kidney failure (rhabdomyolysis), or even death. We have the expertise to value these cases accurately, project long-term medical and care needs, and collaborate with leading economists and life care planners to ensure that settlements or verdicts truly compensate for a lifetime of loss.
• Dual Civil and Criminal Expertise: Hazing frequently involves criminal charges against individuals, alongside civil lawsuits for damages. Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives our firm a unique advantage. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation, allowing us to provide comprehensive counsel that considers both potential criminal exposure and civil recovery.
• Investigative Depth: We pride ourselves on thorough, relentless investigation. Our network includes top experts in digital forensics, medical specialties, and economics. We understand how to uncover hidden evidence—from digitally deleted group chats and social media posts to a national fraternity’s internal records of prior incidents, or a university’s disciplinary files—through aggressive discovery and public records requests. We investigate like your child’s future depends on it—because it does. Attorney911’s YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm) features 37 educational videos on personal injury law, wrongful death, and client rights.

We know that confronting hazing, especially when it involves your child, is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to listen without judgment, get you answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We are not about quick settlements; we are about thorough investigation, strategic litigation, and achieving real accountability.

Call to Action

If your child, whether attending Roger Williams University, Brown University, or a Texas campus such as the University of Houston, Texas A&M, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, or Baylor University, has experienced hazing, we want to hear from you. Families in Rhode Island and throughout Texas have the right to answers, accountability, and justice.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen carefully to what happened, explain your legal options clearly, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family. There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; we believe in empowering you with information first. Learn about contingency fees in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We’ll listen to your story without judgment.
• We’ll review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• We’ll explain your legal options, discussing whether a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, or both, are appropriate.
• We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what you can expect from the process.
• We’ll answer your questions about costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
• Everything you tell us is strictly confidential.

Whether you’re in Providence, Rhode Island, or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

Contact Attorney911, The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct Line: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com

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

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