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As a trusted legal entity serving families in Calhoun County and across Texas, we understand the profound concern that arises when your child ventures into college life. The promise of education, new friendships, and personal growth can sometimes be overshadowed by a hidden danger: hazing. In Calhoun County, where families value community and integrity, the thought of a loved one enduring harmful “traditions” is deeply unsettling.

Imagine a bright, hopeful student from Calhoun County, excited about their future at a Texas university. They join a fraternity, a sorority, an athletic team, or even a spirit organization, eager to find their place. What begins with seemingly harmless rituals can quickly escalate into something far more sinister – forced alcohol consumption, sleep deprivation, physical abuse, or humiliating acts that strip away dignity and can inflict lasting trauma, even leading to death. When the line between tradition and abuse is blurred, and fear keeps victims silent, the consequences can be devastating for individuals and families alike.

This comprehensive guide is designed for you—the parents, students, and families in Calhoun County and throughout Texas affected by hazing. We will explore what modern hazing truly looks like, often far removed from the innocent pranks of the past. We’ll delve into the specific Texas legal framework, including criminal and civil liabilities. By examining major national and Texas-specific cases, particularly those at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, we aim to shed light on the systemic issues that persist. Most importantly, we will outline your legal options and demonstrate how The Manginello Law Firm/Attorney911 stands ready to provide experienced advocacy.

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, specific statements made)
  • Do NOT:
    • Confront the fraternity/sorority directly
    • 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 Calhoun County families, understanding modern hazing means shedding old stereotypes and recognizing new, insidious forms of abuse. Hazing is no longer just about “a little roughhousing” or “boys will be boys.” It has evolved into a complex web of physical, psychological, and digital coercion that can have severe and lasting consequences. In today’s college environment, hazing often operates under a veil of secrecy, loyalty tests, and fear, making it difficult for students to speak out and for parents to even recognize it.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

At its core, hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. This definition broadens the scope beyond traditional physical acts, encompassing emotional manipulation and digital exploitation. It’s crucial to understand that a student’s “agreement” or “consent” to participate does not make the activity safe or legal, particularly when a power imbalance, peer pressure, or fear of social exclusion is present. The desire for belonging, especially for young adults from communities like Calhoun County that value close-knit relationships, can be powerfully exploited in hazing scenarios.

Main Categories of Hazing: Beyond the Obvious

Hazing takes many forms, and its dangerous nature is often masked by seemingly innocuous terms like “tradition” or “team-building.” Here are the main categories as seen in 2025:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the deadliest forms. It involves forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often during events like “chugging challenges,” “lineups,” or “bottle exchanges” where pledges are expected to consume a large quantity of liquor and then dispose of the evidence. It can also include pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances, endangering a student’s life. The objective is often to achieve extreme intoxication, leading to hospitalizations, or in tragic cases, death.

• Physical Hazing: This category encompasses direct physical abuse and extreme physical exertion. This can range from formal paddling and beatings to extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond normal athletic conditioning. Other forms include sleep deprivation, where new members are intentionally denied adequate rest; food or water deprivation; and exposure to extreme cold or heat, or dangerous environments, pushing students to their physical limits.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This deeply degrading form of hazing includes forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts, or poses known by demeaning terms like “roasted pig.” It often involves the use of degrading costumes or public performances designed to humiliate. Some instances can also carry racial or sexist overtones, including the use of slurs or forced role-play that demeans identity.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but profoundly damaging, psychological hazing focuses on mental and emotional abuse. This includes persistent verbal abuse, threats, and social isolation. It can involve subtle manipulation, forced confessions, or public shaming, where individuals are ridiculed in front of others, causing severe emotional distress, anxiety, and long-term trauma.

• Digital/Online Hazing: This is a newer, rapidly evolving form of hazing that exploits technology. It includes group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation tactics executed via social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and chat services like Discord. Students might be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to participate in online activities that humiliate or degrade them, with the constant threat of being “called out” or socially excluded if they don’t comply. This 24/7 online presence means hazing can now extend beyond physical gatherings.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

It’s a common misconception that hazing is limited to fraternities. While Greek life often features in hazing headlines, the reality is far broader. Hazing is a pervasive issue across a multitude of student organizations and activities:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes traditional Interfraternity Council (IFC) and Panhellenic organizations, as well as National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and multicultural Greek-letter organizations. While national chapters have anti-hazing policies, local chapters may still engage in prohibited activities.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: These groups, frequently found at institutions like Texas A&M, often have deeply ingrained “traditions” that can cross the line into hazing, emphasizing discipline and hierarchy through potentially harmful means.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs, and Campus Organizations: Groups like “spirit organizations,” “tradition clubs” (such as the Texas Cowboys at UT), or other social groups often have initiation rituals that contribute to hazing scenarios.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, track, and cheerleading, hazing can occur across sports teams, used as a misguided means of “team building” or asserting dominance over new recruits.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups like college marching bands or other performance ensembles can foster hazing environments through rigorous and sometimes abusive initiation demands.
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Hazing can infiltrate many types of student groups, wherever a perceived “rite of passage” is deemed necessary for entry or advancement.

At its core, hazing persists because of a volatile combination of social status, unquestioned tradition, and deeply ingrained secrecy. These factors create an environment where dangerous practices are perpetuated, often with the tacit understanding that “what happens here, stays here,” making it incredibly challenging for victims to break the silence and seek help. For families in Calhoun County, understanding the true breadth and nature of hazing is the first step toward prevention and protection.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing in Texas is crucial for Calhoun County families. While college hazing is often seen as a campus conduct issue, it has serious legal consequences under both state and federal law, opening doors for criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits for accountability and compensation.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Under Texas law, which governs cases in Calhoun County and across the state, hazing is explicitly prohibited and defined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F.

§ 37.151. Definition: Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

In plain English: If someone makes you do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk, that’s hazing under Texas law. This means that a student doesn’t have to be physically harmed for an act to constitute hazing; if it endangers mental health, that’s enough. The defining factor is often the intent to initiate or maintain membership through harmful means.

§ 37.155. Consent Not a Defense: A critical aspect of Texas law is that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if a student claims they “agreed” to the activity, or seemed to participate willingly, the law recognizes that under peer pressure, power imbalances, and desire to belong, true voluntary consent is often absent. This provision directly counters the common defense of hazing being a “choice.”

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Hazing is not just a violation of campus policy; it is a crime in Texas.

• Class B Misdemeanor: Most hazing acts are classified as a Class B misdemeanor, carrying potential penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing results in an injury requiring medical attention, the offense is elevated to a Class A misdemeanor.
• State Jail Felony: Critically, if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, the offense becomes a state jail felony, carrying more severe penalties including incarceration in a state jail facility.
• Failure to Report & Retaliation: Texas law also criminalizes failing to report hazing (if you are a member or officer with knowledge) and retaliating against someone who reports hazing.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Not only individuals, but organizations themselves can be held criminally responsible. An organization (fraternity, sorority, club, team) can be prosecuted if it authorized, encouraged, or if an officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about hazing and failed to report it. Penalties for organizations include fines up to $10,000 per violation, and universities can revoke recognition, effectively banning the entity from campus.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (§ 37.154): To encourage reporting, individuals who, in good faith, report a hazing incident to university authorities or law enforcement are generally immune from civil or criminal liability stemming from that report. Additionally, many university policies and state laws protect students who call for emergency medical assistance in good faith, even if they were involved in the hazing or underage drinking themselves.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It’s important to distinguish between criminal and civil legal actions – both can be pursued simultaneously following a hazing incident:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (prosecutors) against individuals or organizations accused of violating hazing laws. The goal is to punish the offender through fines, imprisonment, or other sanctions. Common hazing-related criminal charges beyond specific hazing offenses can include assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, or even manslaughter or negligent homicide in fatal cases.

• Civil Cases: These are brought by victims or their families. The primary goal is monetary compensation for the damages suffered and to hold responsible parties accountable. Civil lawsuits can target individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and even universities or property owners. Claims often involve allegations of negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, or premises liability, and seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

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

Beyond state laws, federal regulations also play a role in college hazing cases:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal law, enacted in late 2024, mandates greater transparency and prevention. Colleges and universities receiving federal financial assistance are now required to publicly report hazing incidents, establish clear anti-hazing policies, and implement comprehensive prevention programs. This aims to provide families, including those from Calhoun County, with clearer data on campus safety and the prevalence of hazing, with full implementation expected around 2026.

• Title IX / Clery Act: If hazing involves elements of sex discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual assault, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is triggered, requiring universities to investigate and address such conduct. The Clery Act requires colleges to disclose campus crime statistics, including certain types of assaults or alcohol/drug violations that may occur during hazing, ensuring greater transparency regarding campus safety.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Holding responsible parties accountable often requires identifying multiple potential defendants:

• Individual Students: Those who actively planned, participated in, or carried out the hazing acts, including providing alcohol, encouraging abuse, or covering up the incident.
• Local Campus Chapter/Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself, particularly its leadership (officers, “pledgemasters”) who directly orchestrated or condoned the behavior.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The larger national organization that oversees local chapters. Liability can stem from a failure to adequately train chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, or respond to prior warnings of misconduct. This is where national hazing histories become critical.
• University/College: The educational institution itself, or its governing board (like the Board of Regents for public universities), can be held liable under theories of negligent supervision, creating a dangerous environment, or a failure to enforce their own hazing policies, particularly if there was prior knowledge of hazing. Public universities in Texas, like the University of Houston or Texas A&M, may invoke sovereign immunity, but there are exceptions for gross negligence, willful misconduct, and civil rights violations. Private institutions like SMU or Baylor have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: This can include landlords or property owners of off-campus houses where hazing occurred, or even licensed establishments (bars, liquor stores) under “dram shop” laws if they illegally served alcohol to minors or visibly intoxicated individuals who then engaged in hazing.

Each hazing case is fact-specific, and the liable parties can vary widely. An experienced hazing attorney can help identify all potential defendants and build a comprehensive case for accountability. For families in Calhoun County, understanding these legal avenues is paramount to seeking justice.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

When hazing makes headlines, it’s often the most tragic cases, revealing patterns of behavior that have persisted for decades. These anchor stories illustrate the severe consequences of hazing and often set the stage for legal precedents and legislative changes, directly impacting how similar incidents are viewed in Texas courts. These cases underscore that the risks are real and the consequences are devastating.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The majority of hazing-related deaths are tragically linked to forced or coerced alcohol consumption. These incidents showcase a pattern of extreme intoxication, delayed medical attention, and a pervasive culture of silence.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In one of the most widely publicized cases, 19-year-old pledge Timothy Piazza died after a “bid acceptance” event where he was forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol. Fraternity security cameras captured him falling repeatedly, suffering traumatic brain injuries. His fraternity brothers delayed calling 911 for nearly 12 hours, attempting to cover up the incident. The aftermath led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the enactment of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, a felony hazing statute. This case highlighted how extreme intoxication, willful delay in emergency response, and a pervasive culture of cover-up amplify the legal and human cost.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Also in 2017, Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old Pi Kappa Phi pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” in which new members were given handles of hard liquor. Multiple criminal charges followed. FSU responded by temporarily suspending all Greek life activities and overhauling its anti-hazing policies. Coffey’s death, along with others, spurred a statewide anti-hazing movement in Florida, demonstrating how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old Phi Delta Theta pledge at Louisiana State University, died from alcohol toxicity with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.495% after a “Bible study” drinking game. During this ritual, pledges were forced to drink heavily whenever they answered questions incorrectly. His death led to the passing of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, a stronger felony hazing law. This case powerfully illustrates how legislative change often follows public outrage and undeniable proof of severe hazing. The Gruver family’s successful litigation showed that both the fraternity and individuals could be held accountable.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old Pi Kappa Alpha pledge, died after allegedly being forced to consume a liter of whiskey during an initiation ritual. The subsequent legal actions included felony hazing charges and criminal convictions for multiple fraternity members, including the chapter president who was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million to the Foltz family. Bowling Green State University reached a separate $2.9 million settlement with the family, while the Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity settled for $7 million. This case emphasized that universities, along with fraternities, can face significant financial and reputational consequences. The total known settlement of $9.9 million is one of the largest in hazing case history.

These cases collectively demonstrate how a pattern of forced alcohol consumption, often during “Big/Little” or “pledge” events, is linked to critical injury and death, with significant consequences for individuals and organizations.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized hazing, often involving extreme exertion or violence, also results in catastrophic outcomes. These cases often occur under strict secrecy, with severe physical and psychological consequences.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College / Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old Pi Delta Psi pledge, died after a brutal hazing ritual during a fraternity retreat in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. Blindfolded and weighted down with a heavy backpack, he was repeatedly tackled in a “glass ceiling” ritual. He suffered a traumatic brain injury, and fraternity members delayed calling 911 for an hour, attempting a cover-up. The national fraternity was ultimately convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, a landmark ruling. This case proves that off-campus retreats, often chosen to evade university oversight, can be even more dangerous, and that national organizations can face criminal and severe civil sanctions. This organization was notably banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years and fined over $110,000.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not confined to Greek letter organizations; it is a serious problem within athletic programs as well, often disguised as “team building” or “player bonding.”

• Northwestern University Football Hazing Scandal (2023–2025): Widespread allegations of sexualized and racist hazing plagued Northwestern’s football program over many years. Former players filed multiple lawsuits against the university and coaching staff. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald, initially suspended, was later fired and has since settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit confidentially. This scandal revealed that hazing can run deep within major athletic programs, involving power dynamics and a culture of silence separate from Greek life, raising critical questions about institutional oversight and complicity.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies send a clear message: the dangers of hazing are real, and the legal repercussions for those responsible can be immense. The common threads linking these cases—forced drinking, humiliation, physical violence, delayed medical care, and systematic cover-ups—demonstrate a foreseeable pattern of harm. For Calhoun County parents, it’s vital to recognize that these powerful national precedents affect how hazing cases are prosecuted and litigated in Texas. Whether it’s at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, these national lessons underscore the importance of immediate action and robust legal representation. When the stakes are this high, a family’s fight for justice and accountability is not just for their child, but for all students who deserve safety in their pursuit of education.

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

For families in Calhoun County, understanding the hazing landscape at major Texas universities is paramount. Many students from our community either attend these institutions or know someone who does. The Manginello Law Firm has deep roots in Texas, and we are intimately familiar with the unique cultures and challenges present on campuses across the state. While incidents can occur anywhere, these five universities represent significant hubs of higher education in Texas, each with its own history and approach to addressing hazing.

Here, we provide a detailed look at the hazing context at the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University. We’ll examine their policies, documented incidents, and what Calhoun County families should know.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, located in the heart of our firm’s home city, stands as a prominent institution with a significant Greek life presence. For Calhoun County families, the University of Houston is a relatively close and popular option, and unfortunately, it has also been the site of serious hazing allegations that Attorney911 is actively litigating.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (with Calhoun County Connection)

The University of Houston is a massive, diverse urban institution, serving over 47,000 students. It boasts a mix of commuter and residential students, reflecting the vibrant energy of Houston. Its Greek life is robust, with a wide array of Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural fraternities and sororities. For Calhoun County families, UH offers a dynamic city experience while remaining relatively accessible. Many students from our coastal communities choose UH for its strong academic programs and urban opportunities.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

UH maintains clear anti-hazing policies, prohibiting any acts that endanger mental or physical health for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. These policies cover activities both on and off campus, explicitly banning forced consumption of alcohol, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and mental distress. UH provides several reporting channels, including the Dean of Students Office, Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). Like other Texas schools, UH is required to compile and post hazing violation data.

5.1.3 Example Incident & Response: The Leonel Bermudez Case

The Manginello Law Firm/Attorney911 is currently representing Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston, its Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national fraternity, and 13 individuals following alleged severe hazing in late 2025. This case highlights the brutal realities of modern hazing.

According to the lawsuit, Bermudez, a fall 2025 pledge for the Beta Nu chapter of Pi Kappa Phi, endured relentless and degrading rituals. The hazing included:

• Being forced to wear a “pledge fanny pack” 24/7 containing humiliating items like condoms, a sex toy, and nicotine devices, with threats of punishment for non-compliance.
• Enforced strict dress codes and mandatory “study/work” blocks for hours.
• Overnight and late-night driving duties as a chapter chauffeur.
• Intense physical drills at Yellowstone Boulevard Park, including sprints, bear crawls, and “save-your-brother” exercises.
• Being subjected to cold-weather exposure in underwear and lying in vomit-soaked grass.
• Hose spraying “similar to waterboarding” with threats of actual waterboarding.
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate sprints.
• On November 3, Bermudez was allegedly forced to perform over 100 push-ups and 500 squats, leaving him unable to stand.
• Another pledge was reportedly hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour on October 13.

These alleged acts resulted in severe medical consequences for Bermudez, including rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown), acute kidney failure, and passing brown urine—a classic symptom of rhabdomyolysis. He required a four-day hospitalization, with ongoing risks of permanent kidney damage and long-term physical and psychological harm. Attorney Ralph Manginello starkly summarized the victim’s plight, stating simply, “His urine was brown.”

The university called the conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary measures, while Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters suspended the Beta Nu chapter on November 6, 2025. The chapter subsequently voted to permanently surrender its charter on November 14, 2025, just days before Attorney911 filed the lawsuit. Lupe Peña, an attorney at our firm, emphasized the importance of this case: “If this prevents harm to another person…Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” This incident underscores the firm’s direct involvement in critically important hazing litigation and its commitment to preventing future tragedies.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Calhoun County families seeking justice for hazing at UH, legal proceedings would typically involve the Harris County legal system. UHPD operates within the university’s jurisdiction, but the Houston Police Department could also be involved if criminal acts occurred off-campus within city limits. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Harris County Civil Courts. Potential defendants in such a case could include the individual students involved, the local Pi Kappa Phi chapter, the Pi Kappa Phi national organization, and the University of Houston and its Board of Regents, particularly if negligent supervision or a failure to enforce policies can be shown. Our firm’s significant experience in Houston-based litigation, including complex cases against powerful defendants, uniquely positions us to navigate these waters.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

• Report Immediately: Utilize UH’s reporting channels (Dean of Students, UHPD hotline) for official documentation.
• Gather Evidence: Crucially, if you or your child has experienced hazing, meticulously collect all digital evidence—screenshots of group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp), photos or videos of events or injuries. The Bermudez case highlights how quickly chapters will try to “clean up” their digital footprint.
• Seek Medical Attention: Any physical or psychological symptoms must be professionally documented. Ensure medical providers are aware that hazing is suspected.
• Contact Local Counsel: Families in Calhoun County should immediately reach out to a Houston-based attorney with deep hazing experience. Attorney911 is prepared to provide immediate guidance to safeguard legal rights and ensure evidence is preserved.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, a cornerstone of Texas higher education, holds deep significance for many Calhoun County families. Its strong traditions and large student body mean that its various organizations, from Greek life to the Corps of Cadets, are a prominent part of student culture. Hazing at A&M, particularly within these tradition-rich groups, carries unique complexities.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (with Calhoun County Connection)

Texas A&M, located in College Station, is approximately a two-hour drive from Calhoun County, making it a common destination for students from our area. Renowned for its deep-rooted traditions and the iconic Aggie Spirit, A&M boasts a massive student population exceeding 70,000. It features a vibrant Greek life, an active athletics program, and the distinctive Corps of Cadets, a military lifestyle program. The emphasis on tradition and loyalty can sometimes create an environment where hazing is disguised as a necessary “rite of passage.”

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

Texas A&M strictly prohibits hazing, defining it broadly to include any act that causes or is intended to cause mental or physical discomfort, intimidation, or ridicule. Their policies apply to all student organizations, both on and off campus. Reporting is facilitated through the Student Life Office, the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life, the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD), and an online reporting form. A&M also publishes a list of hazing violations and organizational sanctions on its website, providing some level of transparency.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced scrutiny over hazing in both its Greek system and the Corps of Cadets, demonstrating that hazing can permeate different facets of campus life:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (circa 2021): This incident involved egregious physical and chemical hazing. Two pledges alleged that they were subjected to strenuous physical activity, followed by having substances poured on them, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million, and the chapter was suspended by the university. Such incidents underscore the dangerous escalation of “traditional” hazing methods.

• Corps of Cadets Hazing (2023 Lawsuit): A male cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading forms of hazing within the Corps. These allegations included simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose, with an apple in his mouth. The university stated it addressed the matter through its internal conduct processes. The Corps, with its emphasis on hierarchy and tradition, has periodically faced allegations of hazing that leadership has pledged to eradicate.

These incidents highlight the persistent challenges A&M faces in curbing hazing within its various student communities. The repeated nature of severe physical and chemical hazing incidents points to a pattern of behavior that must be addressed definitively.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Calhoun County families, a hazing incident at Texas A&M would fall under the jurisdiction of Brazos County courts. Investigations might involve the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) or the College Station Police Department. Civil litigation could target individual students, the local chapter, the national organization (e.g., Sigma Alpha Epsilon national), and potentially the Texas A&M University System and its Board of Regents. Given the university’s public status, sovereign immunity may be asserted by the university system, but an experienced attorney can explore exceptions related to gross negligence or specific policy violations.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

• Understand the Policies: Familiarize yourself with A&M’s strong anti-hazing policies, but critically evaluate whether they are effectively enforced.
• Report Discreetly, Then Formally: If your child is involved, document everything covertly first. Then, with legal advice, utilize A&M’s reporting system. Remember that the university’s priority is its own reputation and compliance, while your child’s priority is their safety and well-being.
• Preserve Digital Evidence: Group chats, social media posts, or any communications related to hazing are invaluable. Screenshot and save everything immediately.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Given the serious nature of past incidents, Calhoun County families should consult with an attorney to understand their rights and how to navigate both university proceedings and potential civil or criminal actions.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution, draws a significant number of students from Calhoun County and across Texas. Its large and diverse student body, combined with a vibrant Greek scene and numerous social organizations, makes it another important focal point in the discussion of hazing. UT’s proactive approach to publicizing hazing violations offers crucial insights into the ongoing struggle against these dangerous practices.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (with Calhoun County Connection)

UT Austin is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Texas, with a strong academic reputation and a deeply ingrained culture of tradition. For many Calhoun County students, attending UT represents a major achievement. The university has a thriving Greek system with a long history, as well as numerous spirit groups, athletic teams, and social clubs. Like many large state schools, UT’s extensive student life provides ample opportunities for involvement, but also creates environments where hazing can unfortunately persist.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

The University of Texas at Austin has strict anti-hazing policies that align with Texas law, prohibiting any act that could endanger a student’s mental or physical health for initiation or affiliation. UT’s policies cover activities both on and off campus. The university encourages reporting through the Office of the Dean of Students, the Behavior Concerns Advice Line (BCAL), the UT Police Department (UTPD), and an online reporting form. Crucially, UT is one of the most transparent universities in Texas regarding hazing. It maintains and publishes a publicly accessible Hazing Violations page (often found at hazing.utexas.edu) that details organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations page is a critical resource, revealing a pattern of recurring misconduct across various student groups. Examples frequently include:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): This specific chapter has been cited on UT’s public hazing log for new members being directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. These actions were deemed hazing, leading to the chapter being placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education. Such incidents highlight the persistence of physical and consumption-based hazing.

• “Texas Cowboys” Spirit Group (2018): This long-standing spirit organization has faced multiple hazing allegations, including reports of alcohol misuse, sleep deprivation, and extreme physical activities. A 2018 incident linked to the death of a “New Man” prompted significant institutional review. Despite the organization being known for its traditions, the university noted serious policy violations.

The repeated appearance of certain organizations on UT’s public hazing log demonstrates that despite policies and sanctions, hazing remains a persistent challenge that requires ongoing vigilance. For families, this transparency provides invaluable insight into an organization’s history of compliance.

5.3.4 How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Calhoun County families, a hazing incident at UT Austin would involve the Travis County legal system. Investigations could be conducted by UTPD or the Austin Police Department, depending on the location of the incident. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Travis County District Courts, potentially naming individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and the University of Texas System and its Board of Regents. As a public institution, UT Austin may assert sovereign immunity, but exceptions often apply in cases of gross negligence, civil rights violations, or Title IX issues. The publicly available hazing logs can be powerful evidence in civil cases, demonstrating a pattern of neglect and foreseeability.

5.3.5 What UT Students & Parents Should Do

• Utilize Public Resources: Review UT’s official Hazing Violations page before joining an organization. A history of violations is a significant red flag.
• Document Thoroughly: If hazing occurs, meticulously document actions, dates, and names. The transparency of UT’s system might encourage more thorough police and university investigations.
• Report to UTPD or Austin PD: If criminal activity is involved, filing a report with law enforcement is crucial.
• Seek Legal Evaluation: Calhoun County families should consult an experienced hazing attorney who understands both Texas law and the specific reporting and disciplinary processes at UT. A lawyer can help leverage UT’s public records for legal action.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a prominent private institution in Dallas, drawing a sophisticated and often affluent student body, including many from Calhoun County seeking a strong academic and social environment. Its vibrant Greek life is a central component of campus culture, and like other universities, SMU has had its share of hazing incidents.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (with Calhoun County Connection)

SMU is known for its beautiful campus, strong academic programs, and highly active social scene, centered significantly around Greek life. Many Calhoun County students are attracted to SMU’s blend of tradition and modern amenities. The university’s fraternities and sororities are well-established and play a major role in student social life. This strong Greek presence, combined with a residential campus culture, means that concerns about hazing are particularly relevant for SMU families.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

SMU maintains a strict anti-hazing policy that mirrors Texas law, prohibiting any act during initiation or affiliation that causes or is intended to cause mental or physical discomfort, intimidation, or ridicule. Their policy applies regardless of location (on or off campus). SMU encourages reporting through the Dean of Students Office, the SMU Police Department (SMU PD), and various online reporting mechanisms, including an anonymous reporting system called Real Response. While SMU does disclose information about organizational conduct violations, being a private institution means some internal records may not be as accessible to the public as those from state universities.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

SMU has taken strong action against organizations found to have violated its anti-hazing policy:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): This incident, widely reported, involved allegations that new members were subjected to paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation. Following an investigation, the Kappa Alpha Order chapter was suspended for several years, effectively banning it from recruiting new members for an extended period. This was a significant sanction that sent a clear message about the university’s stance on hazing. Other fraternities and sororities at SMU have also faced various sanctions, including probationary periods, social restrictions, and educational requirements, highlighting the ongoing effort to curb hazing within its Greek community.

• Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) (2018): This chapter was suspended for several years due to hazing violations related to forced calisthenics and other physical activities. SMU’s Office of the Dean of Students emphasized the severity of its response, citing the dangerous nature of such behaviors.

These examples underscore SMU’s commitment to holding organizations accountable, but also illustrate the persistent nature of hazing within even private university settings.

5.4.4 How a SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Calhoun County families, a hazing incident at SMU would typically involve the Dallas County legal system. Investigations might be led by SMU PD or the Dallas Police Department, depending on the incident’s location. Civil lawsuits would generally be filed in Dallas County Civil Courts. As a private institution, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially easier to pursue claims directly against the university itself, in addition to individuals, local chapters, and national organizations. An experienced attorney can navigate the complexities of discovery in a private university setting to uncover relevant internal documents and communication.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

• Understand SMU’s Zero Tolerance: While policies are clear, evaluate whether the culture on the ground aligns with these rules.
• Use Anonymous Reporting: SMU’s Real Response system can be a mechanism for discreetly alerting authorities without immediate fear of direct confrontation.
• Collect Evidence: Any evidence, particularly digital communications, is crucial. The private nature of SMU’s records means that personal collection of evidence by students and parents is even more vital.
• Seek Experienced Counsel: Calhoun County families dealing with hazing at SMU should seek legal advice from a firm like Attorney911 that has experience with private university litigation. Our firm’s expertise in navigating confidential university records can be invaluable.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Christian university in Waco, holds a unique place in Texas higher education, attracting students from Calhoun County and across the nation with its faith-based mission and strong academic programs. Its Greek life, while present, operates within a distinct cultural and regulatory framework, which has nonetheless seen hazing incidents.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (with Calhoun County Connection)

Baylor University is known for its strong Christian identity, robust academic offerings, and enthusiastic athletic programs. Located roughly three hours from Calhoun County, it’s a desirable choice for families seeking a values-driven education. Greek life at Baylor is active, but its presence is intentionally shaped by the university’s mission, leading to different social dynamics than at some larger state schools. Despite this, the pressures to belong and adhere to group norms can still lead to hazing. Baylor has also faced significant public scrutiny regarding its handling of student conduct issues, particularly in the wake of the football and sexual assault scandal several years ago, which underscores the importance of institutional accountability.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

Baylor strictly prohibits hazing, articulating a comprehensive policy consistent with Texas law. This policy applies to all university-sanctioned organizations and activities, both on and off campus, banning physical, psychological, and alcohol-related hazing. Students and organizations found responsible face severe penalties up to expulsion or permanent organizational bans. Reporting channels include the Department of Student Activities, the Baylor Police Department (BUPD), and the university’s Title IX Office (for related issues). Baylor also maintains a log of organizational conduct violations, including those related to hazing.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

While hazing at Baylor may not always reach the same level of national media attention as incidents at some larger state universities, the university has still taken disciplinary action:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): In 2020, 14 Baylor baseball players were suspended following a hazing investigation. The university determined that players engaged in hazing activities, leading to staggered suspensions that impacted the team’s season. This incident underscored that hazing is not exclusive to Greek life and can occur within athletic programs, even at institutions with strong ethical codes.

• Greek Life Violations: Various fraternities and sororities at Baylor have faced probation, social probation, or temporary suspension for hazing, alcohol violations, or conduct unbecoming of student organizations. These range from forced calisthenics and scavenger hunts to alcohol misuse at unsanctioned events. While specific details may not always be highly publicized, the consistent pattern of such violations indicates that the university actively investigates and disciplines organizations when hazing is identified.

These incidents demonstrate Baylor’s efforts to address hazing within its community, even amid its focus on broader institutional challenges and its Christian mission.

5.4.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Calhoun County families involved in a hazing incident at Baylor, litigation would likely occur within McLennan County courts in Waco. Investigations might involve BUPD or the Waco Police Department. Civil lawsuits would name individual students, local chapters, national organizations, and Baylor University itself. As a private institution, Baylor does not have sovereign immunity, meaning it can be sued directly without the stringent exceptions required for public entities. However, litigation against an institution with Baylor’s resources and reputation demands highly skilled legal representation capable of navigating complex legal and public relations landscapes.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

• Review Organizational Histories: Consult Baylor’s organizational conduct log for any group your child plans to join to identify past hazing violations.
• Document and Report Internally: If hazing is suspected, carefully document all evidence before formally reporting to Baylor’s Department of Student Activities or BUPD.
• Address Cultural Nuances: For some Calhoun County families, Baylor’s faith-based mission might imply a higher level of safety. However, it’s crucial to understand that hazing is a cultural issue that can transcend any type of institution.
• Seek External Legal Advice: To ensure true accountability and adequate compensation, Calhoun County families should engage a hazing attorney experienced with private university litigation. Our firm can help navigate both the internal university investigation and any external legal actions, leveraging our understanding of how such institutions respond to serious allegations.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

For families in Calhoun County, understanding the context of Greek organizations on Texas campuses is vital. Many of these groups are part of national, IRS-registered entities that have been involved in hazing incidents across the country. This history, combined with local chapter behaviors, forms a critical part of any hazing litigation.

Complete Texas Greek Organization Directory
Attorney911 tracks every IRS-registered fraternity and sorority in Texas:

• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-2525354 | College Station, TX
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-0555581 | Austin, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6067776 | Fort Worth, TX
• UPSILON ZETA BUILDING ASSOCIATION OF CHI OMEGA | EIN: 75-2290669 | AMARILLO, TX
• IOTA ALPHA CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 51-0225632 | ARLINGTON, TX
• KAPPA EPSILON CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-1727080 | ARLINGTON, TX
• LAMBDA ETA CHAPTER CHI ETA PHI SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 75-2273565 | ARLINGTON, TX
• OMICRON GAMMA GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 75-2819136 | ARLINGTON, TX
• BUILDING CORPORATION OF DELTA CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA PI | EIN: 74-6047117 | AUSTIN, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 46-3831593 | AUSTIN, TX
• LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 74-1130606 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA ALPHA OMEGA CHRISTIAN SORORITY INC | EIN: 85-1262394 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY INC | EIN: 74-6084912 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA LAMBDA ALPHA SORORITY INC | EIN: 90-0956019 | AUSTIN, TX
• TEJAS FOUNDATION | EIN: 74-6062730 | AUSTIN, TX
• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON | EIN: 56-2652714 | BEAUMONT, TX
• SOUTH TEXAS COTILLON INC | EIN: 26-2378154 | BROWNSVILLE, TX
• FRANK HEFLIN FOUNDATION | EIN: 20-3507402 | CANYON, TX
• NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL NORTH DALLAS SUBURBIA | EIN: 26-4080411 | CARROLLTON, TX
• ETA ALPHA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA DELTA SORORITY | EIN: 74-2930349 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• GENTLEMEN OF AGGIE TRADITION | EIN: 88-0537463 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• TEXAS NU-PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 81-4123811 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 90-0293166 | COLLEGE STATION, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 13-3048786 | COLLEGE STATION, TX
• SIGMA NU CORPORATION OF OKLAHOMA | EIN: 73-6098935 | COLLEYVILLE, TX
• SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY ZETA ETA | EIN: 75-6060974 | COMMERCE, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 75-2609909 | COMMERCE, TX
• LAMBDA NU GAMMA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 93-2103520 | CONROE, TX
• LAMBDA OMEGA EPSILON SORORITY INC | EIN: 86-1854073 | CONROE, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA | EIN: 83-3053639 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA ALPHA CHI CHAPTER | EIN: 86-3999517 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA ALPHA PSI CHAPTER | EIN: 87-4252223 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 82-3971493 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 20-2203769 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 20-1237505 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 81-4575228 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 26-0805977 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 90-0657756 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 32-0217610 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 46-0766525 | CORINTH, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418972 | CORPUS CHRISTI, TX
• AGGIE ADPI FAMILY CLUB | EIN: 93-2357531 | CYPRESS, TX
• CHI EPSILON SIGMA INC | EIN: 45-1677063 | DALLAS, TX
• DELTA ALPHA SIGMA MULTICULTURAL SORORITY | EIN: 36-4806998 | DALLAS, TX
• DELTA PHI CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY ALUMNI HOUSING | EIN: 90-0239693 | DALLAS, TX
• FRIENDSHIP-WEST MIZPAH FOUNDATION | EIN: 27-1863731 | DALLAS, TX
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY | EIN: 52-1278573 | DALLAS, TX
• ZETA SIGMA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-2620706 | DALLAS, TX
• ALPHA EPSILON PI FRATERNITY | EIN: 26-2025321 | DENTON, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 26-3170920 | DENTON, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 87-2222906 | EL PASO, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 38-3742830 | EL PASO, TX
• DENTON-LEWISVILLE GUIDE RIGHT FOUNDATION | EIN: 86-1205340 | FLOWER MOUND, TX
• BETA UPSILON CHI | EIN: 74-2911848 | FORT WORTH, TX
• EPSILON MU CHAPTER OF THE SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6203190 | FORT WORTH, TX
• FIRST COMMAND EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION | EIN: 75-1973894 | FORT WORTH, TX
• FORT WORTH ALUMNI CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 75-2755600 | FORT WORTH, TX
• GAMMA PHI DELTA CHRISTIAN FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 74-2893931 | FORT WORTH, TX
• PSI ZETA CHAPTER OF ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 52-1345182 | FORT WORTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY TEXAS GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 91-1981478 | FORT WORTH, TX
• TEXAS KAPPA SIGMA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION INC | EIN: 74-1380362 | FORT WORTH, TX
• BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC | EIN: 46-2267515 | FRISCO, TX
• ETA KAPPA CHAPTER OF SIGMA SIGMA SIGMA HOUSE CORPORATION | EIN: 75-2935462 | FRISCO, TX
• FRISCO TX ALUMNI CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI INCORPORATED | EIN: 92-0575785 | FRISCO, TX
• KAPPA THETA PI – MU CHAPTER CORPORATION | EIN: 33-1294470 | FRISCO, TX
• ARLINGTON-GRAND PRAIRIE ALUMNI CHAP OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRAT INC | EIN: 23-2452759 | GRAND PRAIRIE, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5370943 | HOUSTON, TX
• BETA LAMBDA CHAPTER – ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 99-0483761 | HOUSTON, TX
• DELTA PHI UPSILON FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 80-0209640 | HOUSTON, TX
• HELLENIC PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF TEXAS | EIN: 74-2020182 | HOUSTON, TX
• LELAND COLLEGE PREP PTO | EIN: 47-2160315 | HOUSTON, TX
• SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY EPSILON XI CHAPTER | EIN: 74-6084905 | HOUSTON, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON NEW YORK CHI ALUMNI ASSOCIATION INC | EIN: 26-2710856 | HOUSTON, TX
• SOCIETY OF HISPANIC PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS INC | EIN: 76-0221936 | HOUSTON, TX
• SOUTHWESTERN REGION OF IOTA PHI LAMBDA SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 51-0194762 | HOUSTON, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED – SIGMA GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 39-2352450 | HOUSTON, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 92-1490845 | HUNTSVILLE, TX
• ONE CHAPTER ONE SHIELD | EIN: 92-1743777 | IOWA COLONY, TX
• OMICRON GAMMA SIGMA ALUMNI CHAPTER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 92-1672050 | IRVING, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418666 | KINGSVILLE, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 61-1562040 | LEWISVILLE, TX
• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON-BETA ALPHA CHAPTER | EIN: 47-3967233 | LUBBOCK, TX
• EPSILON NU HOUSING CORPORATION | EIN: 23-7359384 | LUBBOCK, TX
• FARM HOUSE FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-1565336 | LUBBOCK, TX
• GAMMA PHI HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA ALPHA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-1283953 | LUBBOCK, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 82-0644459 | LUBBOCK, TX
• TKE OP HOUSING | EIN: 47-5033161 | LUBBOCK, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA – MU GAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 27-3662583 | LUFKIN, TX
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 45-3325054 | MANSFIELD, TX
• ALPHA DELTA | EIN: 81-2724215 | MCALLEN, TX
• GULF COAST ALUMNI ET OF OX INC | EIN: 45-2717861 | MEXIA, TX
• PI KAPPA PHI DELTA OMEGA CHAPTER BUILDING CORPORATION | EIN: 37-1768785 | MISSOURI CITY, TX
• ALPHA TAU OMEGA HOUSING CORPORATION OF ETA IOTA CHAPTER | EIN: 30-0517788 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6041410 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• EPSILON TAU CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6053083 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• PHI KAPPA PSI TEXAS EPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 45-2729519 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• PI KAPPA ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-6064445 | NEDERLAND, TX
• TEXAS EPSILON UPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 76-0366414 | NEEDVILLE, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 52-1345951 | NOLANVILLE, TX
• ZETA OMICRON ALUMNI ASSOCIATION INC | EIN: 90-0949447 | PONDER, TX
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY | EIN: 23-7279532 | PRAIRIE VIEW, TX
• ZETA BETA CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 23-7098953 | PRAIRIE VIEW, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON TEXAS ETA | EIN: 82-4398421 | RICHMOND, TX
• EPSILON PI PHI EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HONOR SOCIETY | EIN: 47-4643399 | ROUND ROCK, TX
• 9THD BROTHERS KEEPER | EIN: 93-4008573 | ROWLETT, TX
• ZETA XI PEARLS EDUCATIONAL FUND INC | EIN: 88-3484848 | ROWLETT, TX
• ALPHA EPSILON DELTA | EIN: 52-1850764 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-5229133 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 90-0927378 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• PHI UPSILON ZETA OF LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-1016658 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• UTSA SIGMA CHI | EIN: 84-2643090 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5381060 | SAN MARCOS, TX
• SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON – TEXAS SIGMA INCORPORATED | EIN: 88-2755427 | SAN MARCOS, TX
• TEXAS BETA PSI CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA KAPPA SORORITY INC | EIN: 74-6088185 | SHAVANO PARK, TX
• THE ETHEL HEDGEMON LYLE FOUNDATION OF TEXAS | EIN: 76-0592907 | SPRING, TX
• RHO DELTA CHI NATIONAL BOARD | EIN: 93-4247450 | SUGAR LAND, TX
• GAMMA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 16-1675890 | THE WOODLANDS, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 35-2335400 | TYLER, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 90-0293167 | VICTORIA, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 36-4091267 | WACO, TX
• TEXAS RHO CHAPTER OF THE SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-1942292 | WACO, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED NU IOTA CHAPTER BAYLOR UNIVERSITY | EIN: 52-1346485 | WACO, TX
• BETA ALUMNAE CHAPTER OF ALPHA SIGMA KAPPA WOMEN IN TECHNICAL STUDIES | EIN: 73-1568644 | WEATHERFORD, TX
• GAMMA IOTA CHAPTER OF GAMMA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 75-1225585 | WICHITA FALLS, TX
• REDWINE HONORS PROGRAM STUDENT COUNCIL | EIN: 84-5090974 | WICHITA FALLS, TX

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

Most fraternities and sororities with chapters at Texas universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are part of vast national organizations. These national bodies often develop extensive anti-hazing policies and risk management guidelines precisely because they have faced—and continue to face—numerous lawsuits and institutional sanctions stemming from hazing incidents at their chapters nationwide.

When a local Texas chapter repeats a hazing behavior that has led to serious injury, death, or massive settlements for another chapter in a different state, this history becomes powerful evidence. This “pattern evidence” can demonstrate that the national organization had prior knowledge or foreseeability of the dangers of such hazing tactics. Such a pattern strengthens arguments for negligence, gross negligence, and even punitive damages against national entities who failed to adequately prevent or respond to known risks. Our legal strategy often involves uncovering these national patterns to expose a long history of institutional tolerance or ineffective oversight, showing it’s not a “rogue chapter” but a systemic issue.

6.2 Organization Mapping: Uncovering Patterns of Risk

While we do not allege that any specific local chapter engages in hazing without documented evidence, it is crucial for Calhoun County families to understand the national track record of many organizations present on Texas campuses. Attorney911 tracks these organizations to better inform our clients and strategy.

Here are some examples of national organizations and their documented histories:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity has been linked to numerous severe hazing incidents, most notably the tragic death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University in 2021. Foltz died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume a bottle of liquor. This case resulted in a $7 million settlement from the national fraternity alone, underscoring the severe consequences and the pattern of dangerous alcohol hazing. Another significant incident involved David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University in 2012, who also died from alcohol poisoning after a fraternity event, leading to a $14 million settlement to his family.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Often dubbed “America’s deadliest fraternity” by some media outlets, SAE has a disturbing national history of hazing-related deaths and severe injuries. While the national organization famously ended its pledging process in 2014 in response to mounting fatalities, incidents have continued. Recent civil lawsuits have emerged, including one against the University of Alabama chapter (filed 2023) following a pledge’s severe traumatic brain injury during alleged hazing. Closer to home, a lawsuit sought $1 million from the Texas A&M University chapter of SAE (2021) after pledges suffered chemical burns from industrial cleaner and other substances during hazing, requiring skin grafts. Another lawsuit against the UT Austin chapter (January 2024), stemmed from allegations of assault against an exchange student at a party, leading to severe injuries. These cases demonstrate a clear pattern of physical and often dangerous hazing across SAE’s national footprint.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): This organization was at the center of the deeply tragic Max Gruver case in Louisiana (2017), where an 18-year-old pledge died from lethal alcohol poisoning during a “Bible study” drinking game. Some members received criminal convictions for negligent homicide. The civil settlement, though confidential, was substantial, and the case spurred the Louisiana legislature to pass the Max Gruver Act, making felony hazing easier to prosecute.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Nationally, Pi Kappa Phi has faced significant hazing litigation. The death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University in 2017, due to acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night,” is a stark example. The subsequent criminal prosecutions of members and civil lawsuits, though yielding confidential settlements, highlight the organization’s widespread issues. Even more recently, as discussed, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter at the University of Houston has been sued for over $10 million in the Leonel Bermudez case (late 2025) for severe physical and psychological hazing that resulted in rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

• Kappa Alpha Order (KA): This fraternity has also faced allegations and sanctions for hazing across the country, including incidents involving physical abuse and alcohol misuse. SMU’s Kappa Alpha Order chapter was suspended for several years (2017) following documented hazing violations linked to paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The documented national histories of these organizations are not mere historical footnotes; they are crucial elements in a modern hazing lawsuit. Our legal team, highly experienced in this particular area, understands how to leverage these patterns:

• Foreseeability: A pattern of similar hazing incidents across the nation demonstrates that the national organization had foreseeable knowledge of the dangerous nature of specific “traditions” or rituals. This argument directly counters claims that an incident was “unforeseeable” or merely the action of “rogue” individuals.
• Negligent Supervision: Showing a history of hazing failures can support claims that the national organization was negligent in supervising its chapters, enforcing its own policies, or addressing known risks.
• Punitive Damages: In cases where there is evidence of a long-standing pattern of similar misconduct, especially in the face of prior warnings or sanctions, punitive damages (designed to punish and deter) may be sought, depending on the jurisdiction and specific claims.

Through thorough investigation and targeted discovery, Attorney911 works to connect these national patterns to local incidents, building a robust case for accountability against all responsible parties. For Calhoun County families, this means understanding that a local hazing incident is often not an isolated event but part of a larger, systemic problem that national organizations have a responsibility to address.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Building a compelling hazing case requires meticulous evidence collection, a deep understanding of the applicable laws, and a strategic approach drawn from extensive litigation experience against powerful institutions. The Manginello Law Firm excels in this complex area.

7.1 Evidence: The Foundation of Every Hazing Case

Modern hazing leaves a digital footprint, and uncovering it is paramount. We focus on securing and preserving every piece of evidence, knowing that organizations often attempt to erase their tracks.

• Digital Communications: In today’s world, the most critical evidence often resides in digital form. This includes screenshots of group chats from platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, and Slack, as well as direct messages and comments from Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. These communications can reveal planning, instructions, coercion, and real-time reactions to hazing events. Often, defense attorneys claim these were “just jokes,” but the context of an initiation period reveals a different intent. It is crucial to screenshot these with timestamps and participant names visible, backing them up immediately. Our firm has the resources to work with digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages, but original, unedited screenshots are invaluable.

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is incredibly powerful. This includes content filmed by members during hazing events, photos or videos of injuries, humiliating acts, or forced drinking. Security camera footage from campus buildings, bars, venues, or even residential doorbell cameras (like Ring) can also provide objective proof. In the Bermudez case at UH, the very location of alleged physical hazing at Yellowstone Boulevard Park could have been caught on public or private surveillance.

• Internal Organization Documents: These include pledge manuals, initiation scripts, lists of “traditions,” and even internal emails or texts from officers or “pledgemasters” outlining expectations for new members. National anti-hazing policies and training materials are also critical, as they can be used to show that a national organization was aware of the risks and had a duty to address them.

• University Records: Through strategic legal maneuvers, we can uncover a trove of university records. This includes past conduct files, probation notices, and suspension reports related to the specific organization or even individual members. Campus police incident reports, Clery Act reports (which disclose campus crime statistics), and Title IX complaints can also reveal patterns of misconduct. Critically, internal emails among administrators can show what university officials knew and when. For Texas public universities like UT or A&M, we can leverage public records requests, while for private institutions like SMU or Baylor, legal discovery processes are key.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These records provide objective evidence of the harm suffered. This encompasses emergency room reports, hospitalization records, surgery notes, physical therapy logs, and, critically, toxicology reports for alcohol or drug-related hazing. For injuries like rhabdomyolysis or traumatic brain injuries, detailed medical records are necessary to document the full extent of physical damage and future care needs. Psychological evaluations are vital for documenting emotional distress, PTSD, anxiety, depression, or suicidal ideation resulting from hazing trauma.

• Witness Testimony: The accounts of other pledges, current or former members, roommates, coaches, or bystanders who observed or experienced the hazing are invaluable. Often, former members who quit an organization due to hazing are willing to cooperate once legal action is initiated, providing insider perspectives on the organization’s culture.

7.2 Damages: Compensating for Profound Harm

Hazing can result in profound and multifaceted damages, both financial and personal. Our legal team collaborates with a network of experts—including medical professionals, digital forensic specialists, economists, and psychologists—to thoroughly document and quantify these losses.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This category covers all past and anticipated medical expenses. This includes costs for emergency room visits, hospital stays (including ICU care), surgeries, rehabilitative therapies (physical, occupational, speech), prescription medications, and adaptive equipment. For catastrophic injuries like those in the Bermudez case, detailed life care plans are developed to project the lifetime costs of ongoing care and support, often amounting to millions of dollars.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can disrupt a student’s academic career, leading to missed semesters, withdrawal from institutions, or delayed graduation. This not only results in lost tuition and fees but also, critically, impacts their ability to enter the workforce on time, leading to lost wages. For students suffering permanent physical or psychological disabilities, we calculate diminished future earning capacity, projecting the loss of lifetime income.

• Non-Economic Damages: These subjective, yet legally compensable, damages address the deeply personal impact of hazing. This includes physical pain and suffering from injuries and their long-term effects, as well as emotional distress and psychological harm. Symptoms such as PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts are unfortunately common. We also seek compensation for loss of enjoyment of life, acknowledging the student’s inability to participate in activities they once loved, the withdrawal from social life, and the profound impact on their overall quality of life and future aspirations. The humiliation, shame, and loss of dignity are also meticulously documented.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): In the most tragic cases where hazing results in death, the surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims. These damages cover funeral and burial costs, the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided to the family, and, crucially, the loss of companionship, love, comfort, and society. The immense grief and emotional suffering endured by parents, siblings, and other close family members are critical components of these claims, as are their related mental health treatment costs.

• Punitive Damages: When hazing is particularly egregious, involving extreme recklessness, malice, or a conscious disregard for student safety, punitive damages may be sought. The purpose of punitive damages is not just to compensate victims but to punish the defendants for their reprehensible conduct and deter similar behavior in the future. This is especially relevant when institutions have ignored repeated warnings or failed to act despite clear patterns of hazing, as seen in many national cases. Texas law allows for punitive damages in specific circumstances to address such severe misconduct.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing litigation involves navigating a complex web of potential defendants and insurance coverages. Each party — individual students, local chapters, national organizations, and universities — typically has insurance. However, their insurers often attempt to deny coverage, arguing that hazing, especially intentional acts or criminal behavior, falls under exclusions.

Our firm strategically identifies all potential sources of insurance coverage, including homeowners’ policies for individuals, liability policies for local chapters, national organization insurance, and university umbrella policies. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, leverages her invaluable background as a former insurance defense attorney. She understands “their playbook” – how insurance companies try to minimize payouts, delay claims, or invoke exclusions. This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate their tactics, challenge improper denials, and rigorously pursue coverage on behalf of our clients, ensuring all available resources are brought to bear for fair compensation. We use this expertise to penetrate institutional defenses, forcing accountability where it might otherwise be sidestepped.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For Calhoun County families and students, knowing what to do if you encounter hazing is crucial. Early intervention and proper documentation can make all the difference, both for safety and for any future legal action.

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Your intuition is powerful. If something feels off with your child, don’t dismiss it.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Look for a combination of physical, behavioral, academic, and financial red flags.

  • Physical: Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or repeated “accidents.” Extreme fatigue, sleep deprivation, or significant weight loss/gain. Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if your child doesn’t typically drink).
  • Behavioral/Emotional: Sudden secrecy, withdrawal from family/friends, personality changes (anxiety, depression, irritability). Defensiveness when asked about the organization, or expressions like “I can’t talk about it” or “it’s just tradition.”
  • Academic: Unexpected drop in grades, missing classes or assignments for “mandatory” events.
  • Financial: Requests for excessive money for unexplained expenses, “fines,” or elaborate purchases for older members.

• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach them with empathy, not accusation. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with [organization name]? Is anything making you uncomfortable?” Reassure them that their safety and well-being are your top priorities, and that you will support them regardless. Emphasize that you are there for them, without judgment.

• If Your Child is Hurt: Prioritize medical care immediately. Any injury, whether physical or psychological, should be professionally documented by doctors, ensuring you explicitly state that hazing is suspected. Then, meticulously document everything from your child’s account – include specific dates, times, names, locations, and actions. Take clear photos of injuries over several days to show progression (use a coin or ruler for scale). Crucially, help your child preserve all digital evidence, including group chats and social media posts, before they can be deleted.

• Dealing with the University: Document every interaction with university officials. Ask specific questions about prior incidents involving the same organization and the university’s response. Be aware that the university’s primary concern may be its own public image, not necessarily your child’s well-being or legal rights.

• 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 covering up what happened, contact an experienced attorney. The window for action is often small, and evidence can disappear quickly.

8.2 For Students / Pledges: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

You are not alone, and you have rights.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? If you feel unsafe, humiliated, coerced, forced to drink or endure pain, or if the activity is hidden from the public or administrators – it is likely hazing. If you’re being told to keep secrets or lie about activities, that is a major red flag that it’s hazing.

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: The desire to fit in and belong is powerful, but true consent cannot be given under duress or extreme peer pressure. The law recognizes this power dynamic, and even if you “agreed” to participate, it doesn’t make the hazing legal or justifiable. Your safety and well-being always come first.

• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time. If you feel unsafe, remove yourself from the situation and seek help immediately from a trusted friend, family member, or campus resource. You can report hazing anonymously through campus hotlines or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE). If you fear retaliation, immediately report those fears to campus authorities or local police.

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools, and Texas law, offer good-faith reporter immunity. This means if you or someone else calls for medical help during an emergency (like alcohol poisoning), those seeking help are generally protected from personal criminal charges related to underage drinking or minor hazing violations. Your priority should always be saving a life.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were part of a hazing incident, either as a participant or an observer, and now have regrets or want to help, your actions can be incredibly important.

• Your Voice Matters: Your testimony and any evidence you possess could be crucial in preventing future harm and holding those responsible accountable. Acknowledge your role, but focus on the truth.
• Seek Legal Counsel: If you have concerns about your own potential legal exposure, it’s wise to seek independent legal advice. An attorney can help you understand your rights and potential liabilities, and negotiate how best to cooperate with investigations while protecting yourself.
• Cooperation Can Lead to Accountability: Cooperating with investigations can lead to criminal charges or civil liability against individuals and organizations, and potentially secure much-needed compensation for victims.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

The pursuit of justice after hazing is fraught with opportunities for missteps. Avoiding these critical errors is paramount to a successful outcome. Attorney911 often finds that families, acting with the best intentions, inadvertently jeopardize their own cases.

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

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

   • What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble or be embarrassed.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Deleted evidence looks like a cover-up, can be considered obstruction of justice, and makes proving your case significantly harder. Digital data is often the most critical evidence.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing or uncomfortable content. Screenshot every relevant message, photo, or video with timestamps and participant names clearly visible. Archive these safely.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to tell them exactly what I think of them.”
   • Why it’s wrong: A direct confrontation signals to the defendants that a legal issue is brewing. This immediately prompts them to call their lawyers, destroy evidence, instruct witnesses to remain silent, and prepare their defenses.
   • What to do instead: Document everything you can, then immediately contact a lawyer before any direct confrontation. Let your legal team handle all communications.

3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms:

   • What universities and organizations often do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements, often framed as simple disciplinary actions.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit, and any “settlement” offered by the university is typically far below the true value of your child’s damages.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign any documents from the university, a fraternity, or its national organization without an experienced attorney reviewing them first.

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

   • What families think: “I want the world to know what happened to my child.”
   • Why it’s wrong: While understandable, public social media posts can be used by defense attorneys to scrutinize your child’s credibility, find inconsistencies, or even argue that privacy has been waived.
   • What to do instead: Document all evidence privately and share it only with your legal team. Your lawyer will advise on the best strategy for public communication, if any.

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting” or allowing “talks”:

   • What fraternities/universities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic; let’s resolve this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Such meetings are often designed to pressure the victim, gather information, or extract statements that can later be used against them.
   • What to do instead: If you are considering legal action, all communications should go through your lawyer. Your child should not attend any meetings or speak with anyone from the organization or university without legal counsel.

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

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating; expect our internal process to address this.”
   • Why it’s wrong: University investigations are often slow, lack subpoena power, and can fail to uncover crucial evidence. Meanwhile, vital evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations continues to run. The university’s priority is often its own liability, not making your family whole.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW. Contact a hazing attorney immediately. The university process can run parallel, but it is not a substitute for a thorough legal investigation.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim quickly.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Recorded statements are typically used to minimize your claim, and early settlement offers are often significantly undervalued.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with any insurance adjuster and tell them, “My attorney will contact you.”

By avoiding these critical mistakes, Calhoun County families can significantly strengthen their position and increase their chances of achieving justice and meaningful accountability.

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities like the University of Houston or Texas A&M have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, civil rights violations (including Title IX), and when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities like SMU or Baylor have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default. However, it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers or members can also 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 prosecution for hazing. Courts recognize that “agreement” or “consent” under severe peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraudulent concealment, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical as evidence disappears and witnesses move on. Learn about Texas statute of limitations in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability of off-campus activities. Many major hazing cases, such as the Michael Deng case (Pi Delta Psi retreat) or the Collin Wiant case (Sigma Pi unofficial house), occurred off-campus and still resulted in significant judgments and settlements.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing cases settle confidentially before going to trial. Our firm prioritizes your family’s privacy and works to have court records sealed and settlement terms confidential whenever possible. However, the pursuit of justice does not always guarantee full anonymity, particularly if criminal charges are involved. We can discuss strategies for balancing privacy with accountability.

• “How much is my hazing case worth?”
  Every case is unique, and the value depends on many factors, including the severity of injuries, medical costs, lost educational opportunities, emotional distress, and the degree of fault of the liable parties. There is no average settlement for hazing cases, but national verdicts and settlements in severe injury or wrongful death cases have ranged from hundreds of thousands to over $10 million. An experienced attorney can provide a realistic assessment after a thorough investigation. How much is your hazing case worth?

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in Calhoun County or anywhere in Texas faces the aftermath of a hazing incident, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who intimately understand the complex dynamics of campus culture, how powerful institutions fight back, and how to rigorously pursue justice. At The Manginello Law Firm/Attorney911, we are precisely those attorneys.

9.1 Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases

From our Houston offices, we serve families throughout Texas, including Calhoun County and surrounding areas along the Gulf Coast. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families from all corners of our state. Our firm brings unique qualifications to hazing cases:

• Insurance Insider Advantage with Lupe Peña: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable insight with her background as a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm. She knows how fraternity and university insurance companies evaluate, and often undervalue, hazing claims. Lupe Peña’s legal acumen means we understand their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and their settlement strategies because she used to be on their side. We know their playbook because we used to run it. Lupe Peña’s complete professional background can be reviewed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello): Managing partner Ralph Manginello is not intimidated by national fraternities, multi-billion-dollar university systems, or their high-powered defense teams. Our firm was one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, a sprawling complex federal case against a monolithic corporation. Ralph’s extensive federal court experience, particularly in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, means we are uniquely equipped to take on powerful defendants. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won. 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: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We understand how to meticulously work with economists to value lifetime care needs for victims with brain injuries or permanent disabilities, and how to project lost earning capacity. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force genuine accountability. A significant portion of our practice is dedicated to wrongful death claims, detailed at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.

• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: The intersection of criminal and civil law in hazing cases is a critical area of our expertise. Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) ensures we understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual capability allows us to advise witnesses, former members, and victims on both their civil claims and any potential criminal exposure. Our firm is uniquely able to assist in sensitive matters like criminal defense arising from these complex scenarios, as highlighted at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.

• Investigative Depth: We deploy a comprehensive network of experts, including medical professionals, digital forensic specialists, and psychologists, to expose the truth. We know how to obtain hidden evidence, from deleted group chats and social media content to national fraternity risk management files and university internal records through rigorous discovery tactics. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

We understand that hazing cases often require balancing victim privacy with the need for public accountability. We emphasize empathy and victim advocacy, recognizing that this is often one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help ensure that this doesn’t happen to another family.

9.2 Call to Action (Calhoun County-Customized)

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

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to what happened without judgment, explain your legal options under Texas law, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family. There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; everything you share with us is confidential.

In your free consultation, you can expect us to:

• Listen to your story with compassion and understanding.
• Review any evidence you may have—photos, texts, medical records.
• Explain a range of legal options, including criminal reporting, pursuing a civil lawsuit, or internal university processes.
• Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the legal journey.
• Answer all your questions about our contingency fee structure: we don’t get paid unless we win your case. For more details on this, watch our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

Don’t let fear or uncertainty prevent you from seeking justice. The courage to act can not only change your family’s future but also help protect countless other students. The time to act is now.

Contact Attorney911 today:

• Call our 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 at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

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

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com