The Unseen Scars: A Coryell County Family’s Guide to Hazing, Accountability, and Justice in Texas Universities

For families here in Coryell County, the excitement of a student heading off to a Texas university is immense. Whether it’s the rich traditions of Texas A&M, the academic prestige of UT Austin, the vibrant campus life at the University of Houston, the competitive spirit of Baylor, or the community at SMU, we envision growth, friendship, and positive experiences for our children. But sometimes, behind the veneer of brotherhood, sisterhood, or team spirit, lurks a hidden danger: hazing.

Imagine the phone call no parent wants to receive: your child, a bright student from Gatesville or Copperas Cove, is in the emergency room. Not from an accident, but from an “initiation ritual” gone horribly wrong at a fraternity house in Houston, a remote ranch near College Station, or a team event off-campus in Waco. Perhaps they were forced to drink until they collapsed, endured physical beatings, or suffered humiliating acts designed to break their spirit. Maybe others were filming on their phones, chanting, and laughing—but when things escalated, no one wanted to call 911 for fear of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.” Your child feels trapped, torn between loyalty to the group and their own safety and well-being.

This isn’t a hypothetical fear; it’s a tragic reality for far too many families across Texas. As Legal Emergency Lawyers™, we at The Manginello Law Firm / Attorney911 witness firsthand the devastating impact of hazing. This comprehensive guide is designed for you, the families in Coryell County and throughout Texas, to understand what modern hazing looks like, the Texas legal framework, insights from major national and local cases, and the legal options available to you if your child becomes a victim.

Even if your child attends school far from Coryell County, Texas hazing law and experienced Texas counsel can help. This article provides general information and is not specific legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm can evaluate individual cases based on their specific facts, and we serve families throughout Texas, including Coryell County.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

• In the first 48 hours:

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

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

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Coryell County families unfamiliar with the evolving landscape of college life, understanding hazing goes beyond the outdated movie stereotypes. Modern hazing is often subtle, sophisticated, and can be deeply psychological, leaving invisible scars that last a lifetime. It’s a dangerous game of power and control, disguised as “tradition” or “team building,” that can shatter not just bodies, but minds and futures.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

Hazing is 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.

It’s crucial to emphasize: “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there is peer pressure and a fundamental power imbalance. The law recognizes that true “consent” is impossible in such coercive environments.

Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing manifests in many forms, often escalating from seemingly harmless acts to life-threatening rituals. We classify it into three escalating tiers to help families understand the spectrum of abuse.

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing

These behaviors emphasize a power imbalance, often dismissed as “harmless” but creating psychological harm and setting the stage for escalation.

• Deception and secrecy oaths: New members are told to lie to parents, university officials, or outsiders about group activities.
• Requiring servitude: New members perform duties for older members, such as cleaning rooms, doing laundry, or running errands. This can include being designated drivers at all hours or being “on call 24/7.”
• Social isolation: Restricting contact with external friends or family, or requiring permission to socialize outside the group.
• Deprivation of privileges: New members may not be allowed to speak unless spoken to, sit in certain seats, or use specific entrances.
• Events interfering with academics: Mandatory late-night meetings or activities that disrupt study or sleep schedules.
• “Scavenger hunts” or “tasks”: Activities seemingly innocent but designed to humiliate or endanger, like stealing items or performing public stunts.
• Modern digital control: Constant monitoring through group chats, demanding immediate responses at all hours, or enforcing strict social media policies. Geo-tracking via apps like Find My Friends can also be used for control.

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing

These cause emotional or physical discomfort, often creating a hostile or abusive environment without necessarily causing lasting physical injury.

• Verbal abuse: Yelling, screaming, insults, degrading language, or threats.
• Sleep deprivation: Extending late-night activities, mandatory early morning tasks, or multi-day events with minimal rest.
• Food or water restriction: Limiting access to food or water, or forcing the consumption of unpleasant substances like excessive spices, bland foods, or non-food items.
• Forced physical activity beyond safe limits: Punitive exercises like “smokings,” extreme calisthenics, or forced runs beyond an individual’s capacity, often framed as “conditioning.”
• Public humiliation: Forcing new members to perform embarrassing acts in public, such as wearing degrading costumes, singing loudly, or participating in “roasts” where they are verbally attacked.
• Exposure to uncomfortable conditions: Forcing members into filthy spaces, leaving them in extreme weather, or covering them in unpleasant substances like food, condiments, or spit.
• Digital humiliation: Forcing members to post embarrassing content online, create degrading videos, or participate in online “challenges” for public view or group enjoyment.

Tier 3: Violent Hazing

These activities carry a high potential for serious physical injury, sexual assault, or even death.

• Forced alcohol consumption: The most prevalent and dangerous form, including “lineup” drinking, “Big/Little” nights with hard liquor, drinking games where refusal is punished, or forced chugging until vomiting.
• Forced drug use: Coercing new members to consume illicit drugs, unknown pills, or other harmful substances.
• Physical beatings and paddling: Acts ranging from punches and kicks to repeated paddling with objects, sometimes resulting in severe bruising or internal injuries.
• Dangerous physical “tests”: Blindfolded tackling rituals (“glass ceiling”), forced fights, jumping from significant heights, dangerous driving, or swimming while intoxicated.
• Sexualized hazing: Forcing nudity, simulated sexual acts (like “elephant walks” or “roasted pig” poses), or actual sexual assault. This can also include forcing members to view pornography or engage in sexually degrading acts.
• Racist, homophobic, or sexist hazing: Using slurs, role-playing stereotypes, or forcing members of marginalized groups to perform degrading acts based on their identity.
• Kidnapping and restraint: Abducting new members, blindfolding them, transporting them to remote locations, or physically restraining them for extended periods.
• Exposure to extreme environments: Leaving members in freezing temperatures, severe heat, or denying access to basic necessities like bathrooms for prolonged periods.
• “Retreat” hazing: Moving violent hazing to unsupervised off-campus locations, such as Airbnbs, cabins, or private residences, to evade university oversight and cameras. This is often framed as “team-building.”
• Chemical or fire hazing: Rare but extremely dangerous acts like the San Diego State Phi Kappa Psi case where a pledge was set on fire, or the Texas A&M SAE case involving industrial-strength cleaner causing chemical burns.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is not confined to stereotypical “frat boys.” It’s a systemic issue that can occur in any group with an initiation process and power dynamics. For Coryell County students, it’s crucial to understand that hazing can affect:

• Fraternities and sororities: This includes Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek organizations.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC: Military-style groups often have traditions that can cross the line into hazing, emphasizing extreme physical challenges and blind obedience.
• Spirit squads and tradition clubs: Groups built around school spirit, such as cheerleading teams, dance teams, and university-specific spirit organizations (like the Texas Cowboys at UT), have faced hazing allegations.
• Athletic teams: From football and basketball to swimming, soccer, and band sports, team initiations can involve physical abuse, forced drinking, and humiliation.
• Marching bands and performing arts groups: Even groups focused on music, drama, or performance can engage in hazing under the guise of “bonding” or “toughening up.”

The unfortunate truth is that social status, tradition, and a culture of secrecy often contribute to these practices persisting, even when everyone “knows” hazing is officially illegal or against university policy.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Coryell County whose children attend colleges and universities across Texas, understanding the legal framework surrounding hazing is crucial. Texas has specific laws designed to combat hazing, and these state laws are complemented by federal regulations.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Under Texas law—which governs cases in Coryell County—hazing is explicitly prohibited under the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F (Hazing). This code broadly defines hazing as 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, or
• Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

Key aspects of Texas hazing law:

• Scope: Hazing can happen on or off campus, and the participants can be individuals, organizations, or groups not officially recognized by a university. The location does not exempt participants from liability.
• Harm: The defining characteristic is endangering a student’s mental or physical health or safety. This covers everything from physical beatings and forced consumption to sleep deprivation and severe psychological torment.
• Intent: An act doesn’t have to be maliciously intended to be hazing. It’s enough if the individual or group acted recklessly, meaning they were aware of the risk and disregarded it.
• “Consent” is not a defense: As explicitly stated in Texas Education Code § 37.155, it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the hazing activity. This recognizes the coercive nature of hazing environments where true voluntary consent is unattainable.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing:

Texas law carries significant criminal penalties for hazing:

• Class B Misdemeanor: The default charge for hazing, carrying penalties of up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes bodily injury.
• State Jail Felony: If the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This can result in jail time of 180 days to two years and a fine of up to $10,000.

Additionally, under $37.152:

• Individual officers or members of an organization who fail to report hazing can also face Class A misdemeanor charges if they knew about an incident and did not report it.
• Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

Organizational Liability:

Beyond individuals, organizations themselves can be held criminally responsible for hazing under $37.153:

• An organization can be fined up to $10,000 if it condoned or authorized the hazing.
• A university can revoke its recognition and ban the organization from campus life.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It’s important for Coryell County families to understand the two distinct legal avenues for addressing hazing:

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (prosecutors) against individuals or organizations accused of violating hazing laws. The goal is to punish the wrongdoers through fines, jail time, or probation. In a criminal case, the state must prove guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
• Civil Cases: These are lawsuits brought by victims or their surviving families against individuals and organizations responsible for the hazing. The goal of a civil case is to provide monetary compensation for damages suffered and to achieve accountability. The standard of proof is lower, requiring a “preponderance of the evidence.”

Both criminal and civil actions can proceed simultaneously. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for pursuing a civil lawsuit, meaning families can seek justice through compensation even if criminal charges are not filed or do not result in a conviction.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations add another layer of accountability for universities:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal law requires colleges and universities receiving federal funding to be more transparent about hazing incidents. By around 2026, institutions will need to publicly report all hazing violations and the disciplinary actions taken, as well as strengthen prevention and education efforts. This new transparency will help Coryell County families make informed decisions about where to send their children.
• Title IX: If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, gender-based discrimination, or a hostile environment based on sex, Title IX federal protections can be triggered. Universities have a legal obligation to investigate and respond to such allegations, regardless of whether they occurred on or off campus.
• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges to report campus crime statistics and to have safety policies. Hazing incidents that involve assault, alcohol or drug offenses, or other crimes can fall under Clery reporting requirements, providing another avenue for accountability and transparency.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

In a civil lawsuit, multiple parties may be held responsible for the harm caused by hazing:

• Individual Students: Those who actively participated in, ordered, or encouraged the hazing, or failed to intervene when they had a duty to do so.
• Local Organization/Chapter: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team directly involved. This includes officers and members acting in an official capacity.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The larger national organization that oversees local chapters. Nationals can be held liable if they failed to enforce anti-hazing policies, ignored prior warnings, or were negligent in supervising their local chapters.
• University or Governing Board: The college or university itself, or its board of regents, may be sued for negligence, premises liability, negligent supervision, or for violating Title IX obligations. This liability often hinges on whether the university knew (or should have known) about hazing and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it or allowed it to continue.
• Third Parties: This can include property owners who allowed hazing on their premises, or even bars/alcohol vendors who unlawfully served minors involved in hazing.

Every hazing case is fact-specific, and not every party is liable in every situation. An experienced hazing attorney can help identify all potential liable parties to ensure comprehensive accountability and compensation.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

When hazing incidents occur at Texas universities, they don’t happen in a vacuum. The national conversation and legal precedents set by tragic cases across the country significantly influence how hazing is perceived and prosecuted in Texas. For Coryell County families, understanding these national patterns reveals the systemic nature of hazing and the common threads of abuse that often lead to devastating outcomes.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most pervasive and tragic pattern in hazing involves forced alcohol consumption, often with fatal results. These cases highlight a dangerous culture of excess and delayed medical attention.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In one of the most widely publicized hazing cases, 19-year-old Tim Piazza died after a “bid acceptance” event. Forced to consume vast amounts of alcohol rapidly, he suffered multiple falls and injuries, including a traumatic brain injury. Fraternity brothers delayed calling 911 for nearly 12 hours, fearing repercussions. This case led to dozens of criminal charges, civil litigation, and the landmark Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, making it easier to prosecute serious hazing as a felony. It underscored how extreme intoxication, delay in calling for help, and a culture of silence contribute to tragic student deaths.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old FSU pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to consume them. His death led to multiple criminal charges against fraternity members, FSU’s temporary suspension of all Greek life, and statewide anti-hazing initiatives in Florida. This case exemplifies the fatal consequences of formulaic “tradition” drinking nights.
• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, 18, died after a “Bible study” hazing ritual where pledges were forced to drink heavily if they answered questions incorrectly. His blood alcohol content was nearly six times the legal limit. Gruver’s death led to the passing of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, a felony hazing statute, and criminal convictions for several fraternity members. It unequivocally demonstrated the link between hazing, forced drinking, and legislative change.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, an 18-year-old pledge, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” event. This case resulted in criminal convictions for multiple fraternity members and a significant $10 million settlement for his family from Pi Kappa Alpha national and BGSU. It became a powerful example of both criminal and civil accountability for hazing-related deaths and strengthened Ohio’s anti-hazing laws.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and psychologically abusive rituals continue to cause severe harm.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, 19, died during a fraternity retreat in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. Blindfolded and weighted with a backpack, he was repeatedly tackled in a brutal ritual known as the “glass ceiling.” His fraternity brothers delayed calling for help for over an hour. This landmark case led to the criminal conviction of the national fraternity for aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, the first time a national organization was held criminally liable for a hazing death. It proved that off-campus retreats are not immune from legal scrutiny, highlighting the dangers of ritualized physical abuse.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing isn’t exclusive to Greek life; it’s a pervasive issue across various campus organizations, including competitive athletic programs.

• Northwestern University Athletic Hazing Scandal (2023–2025): A massive scandal erupted at Northwestern when former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the football program, including forced sexual acts. The allegations led to the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, multiple lawsuits against the university and coaching staff, and a deep reckoning for the institution. This case demonstrated that hazing can flourish even in highly visible, funded athletic programs and highlights issues of institutional oversight and a culture of silence.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies reveal a disturbing pattern of abuse, willful ignorance, and negligence by individuals, chapters, universities, and national organizations. The common threads are clear: forced drinking, physical abuse, psychological torment, deliberate delay in calling for medical assistance, and concerted efforts to cover up incidents.

For Coryell County families, these cases serve as stark warnings and powerful precedents. They show that:

• Hazing is a predictable risk: The repeated nature of identical incidents across different campuses and organizations demonstrates that these tragedies are not “accidents” but foreseeable outcomes of unchecked traditions.
• Accountability is possible: Multi-million-dollar settlements and significant criminal penalties provide a blueprint for pursuing justice against those responsible.
• Institutional change often follows litigation: Laws like the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law and the Max Gruver Act were born out of public outrage and legal action, underscoring the power of survivors and grieving families to drive reform.

Families in Coryell County attending UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor are operating in a legal landscape shaped by these lessons. When something goes wrong in a Texas chapter, it often mirrors incidents that have already resulted in severe consequences for others.

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

For students and parents in Coryell County, the reputation and safety protocols of Texas’s leading universities are paramount. While hazing is a nationwide problem, understanding the specific environments and histories at these institutions is crucial. Attorney911 focuses on these major Texas universities because Coryell County families frequently send their children to these schools, and their policies, enforcement, and past incidents set the tone for hazing accountability across the state.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a large urban campus, attracts students from Coryell County seeking diverse academic and social experiences. With a significant commuter population and growing residential facilities, UH maintains an active Greek life and a wide array of student organizations, which sadly, sometimes become the stage for hazing incidents.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH is a Tier One research university known for its energy research, business programs, and diverse student body. Its Greek life, while not as historically entrenched as some other Texas universities, is vibrant and growing, with numerous fraternities and sororities recognized by various councils. This mix of academic ambition and social engagement creates a dynamic environment for many Coryell County students.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains clear anti-hazing policies, prohibiting any activity on or off campus, organized or sponsored by any university organization, that involves hazing. These policies define hazing broadly to include any act that endangers mental or physical health for initiation or affiliation. UH provides multiple reporting channels, including the Dean of Students Office, the Student Conduct Office, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). UH also maintains a public database of organizational misconduct, though not as detailed as some other universities.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

The University of Houston found itself at the center of a significant hazing lawsuit involving Attorney911. In late 2025, our firm filed a $10 million lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston, its Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, its housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity members.

Bermudez, a transfer student and pledge to the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, endured severe hazing over several weeks in fall 2025. Allegations include:

• Being forced to carry a “pledge fanny pack” with degrading items like condoms, sex toys, and nicotine devices 24/7, with threats of punishment for non-compliance.
• Mandatory, hours-long “study/work” blocks and late-night driving duties.
• Extreme physical abuse, including sprints, bear crawls, and wheelbarrow races at Yellowstone Boulevard Park, and “save-your-brother” drills.
• Being forced to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate sprints.
• A particularly brutal workout on November 3rd, involving over 100 push-ups and 500 squats, which left him unable to stand.
• Instances of other pledges being hog-tied face-down with objects in their mouths and being sprayed with a hose “similar to waterboarding” with threats of actual waterboarding.

This hazing culminated in Bermudez developing rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure, leading to brown urine and a four-day hospitalization. His critically high creatine kinase (CK) levels confirmed the diagnosis.

UH’s response included suspending the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter on November 6, 2025, with the chapter ultimately surrendering its charter on November 14, 2025. UH called the conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary measures. This case vividly illustrates the severe physical consequences of hazing and the liability that can extend to individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and the university.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases involving the University of Houston may proceed through both the university’s internal conduct system and the civil justice system. Criminal charges might be filed by UHPD or the Houston Police Department, depending on where the incident occurred in the vast Houston metropolitan area. Civil lawsuits often target the individual perpetrators, the local chapter, the national organization, and potentially the university itself for negligent supervision or failure to protect students. Legal actions would likely be filed in Harris County courts.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For Coryell County students enrolled at UH and their families, it’s vital to:

• Be aware of the signs of hazing, even subtle psychological manipulation.
• Document everything: if you suspect hazing, discreetly screenshot messages, take photos (if safe), and keep detailed notes.
• If hazing occurs, or you are forced to undergo harmful acts, seek medical attention immediately.
• Report incidents to UH’s Dean of Students Office or UHPD.
• Contact an attorney experienced in Houston-based hazing cases like Attorney911 (1-888-ATTY-911) as soon as possible. Our firm, based in Houston, has firsthand experience with these types of situations and can help navigate the complexities of local jurisdiction and university processes.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University in College Station holds a special place in the hearts of many Coryell County families, known for its deep-seated traditions, loyal alumni, and the iconic Corps of Cadets. Its campus culture is unique, but not immune to hazing.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M is renowned for its traditions, military history, and expansive campus. The Corps of Cadets, a deeply ingrained part of A&M’s identity, along with a large and active Greek life, creates environments rich in ritual and hierarchy. For Coryell County students, these traditions can be a powerful draw, but they also carry the risk of hazing under the guise of “building character” or “preserving tradition.”

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M’s Anti-Hazing Policy outlines a zero-tolerance stance against hazing by any student organization, including fraternities, sororities, and the Corps of Cadets. They define hazing broadly and prohibit acts that intimidate, humiliate, or endanger students. Reporting can be made through the Student Conduct Office, University Police Department (UPD), or anonymous tip lines. Texas A&M also publishes a list of sanctioned organizations.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced its share of hazing allegations across various student groups:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon chemical burns (around 2021): Attorney911 represented pledges who alleged they were subjected to extreme physical exertion and had substances, including industrial-strength cleaner, eggs, and spit, poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The fraternity was suspended for two years.
• Corps of Cadets “roasted pig” hazing (2023): A lawsuit filed in 2023 by a former cadet alleged he was subjected to degrading hazing rituals, including forced 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 processes, but the case highlighted the persistence of hazing within traditional military programs.
• Aggie Bonfire Collapse (1999): While not traditional hazing, the collapse that killed 12 and injured 27 raised fundamental questions about student-led, tradition-based activities and university oversight. Many of the factors present—pressure, late-night exertion, and defiance of official policy—are common in hazing. The university ended the tradition on campus, but its legacy continues to affect how A&M approaches high-risk student activities.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases at Texas A&M in College Station might involve the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) or Bryan Police Department for criminal investigations. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Brazos County courts. Due to its status as a public university, Texas A&M may invoke sovereign immunity, but exceptions apply in cases of gross negligence or Title IX violations. Cases often involve the local chapter, national organization, and individuals involved.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Coryell County families with students at Texas A&M should:

• Educate themselves on what constitutes hazing, including traditional “Corps” activities that cross the line.
• Document any signs or experiences of hazing, using photos, videos, and detailed notes.
• Report incidents to the Student Conduct Office or UPD.
• For Coryell County students, remember that the relatively short distance to College Station means that local resources are a practical option. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for confidential guidance, especially given our experience with A&M-related hazing incidents.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is a flagship institution for many Coryell County high school graduates, known for its academic rigor, vibrant campus, and large Greek system. Despite strong anti-hazing policies, UT has a documented history of hazing incidents.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is one of the largest universities in Texas, with an active social scene and a well-established Greek community. Its campus culture blends academic excellence with strong traditions, spirited events, and a bustling city environment. Many Coryell County students aspire to attend UT, making awareness of hazing risks here particularly important.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UT Austin maintains one of the most proactive and transparent anti-hazing stances among Texas universities. Its website prominently features a Hazing Violations page, detailing specific incidents, dates, conduct, and sanctions imposed on organizations. Reporting can be done through the Dean of Students Office, UTPD, or confidential online forms. The university also emphasizes educational programs to prevent hazing.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT’s public hazing records offer a glimpse into the range of incidents they address:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) (2023): Documented for requiring new members to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, which the university classified as hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and mandated to undergo additional hazing-prevention education.
• Texas Wranglers (Spirit Organization) (2022): Sanctioned for hazing activities that included forced alcohol consumption, sleep deprivation, and physical endurance tests. The group received a multi-year suspension.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) (2024): An Australian exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members at a party, resulting in severe injuries. The chapter was already under suspension for prior hazing and safety violations. This incident underscores the pattern of misconduct that can lead to violence.
• Texas Cowboys (Spirit Group) (2018): This highly visible spirit organization was involved in a fatal pickup truck accident involving an intoxicated new member after an alleged hazing event. An investigation cited violations including alcohol consumption by minors and sleep deprivation protocols that may have contributed to a member falling asleep at the wheel. The University determined that hazing had occurred.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases at UT Austin would likely involve UTPD or the Austin Police Department for criminal investigations. Civil lawsuits might be filed in Travis County, with potential defendants including individuals, the local chapter, relevant national organizations (if applicable), and possibly the University of Texas System. UT’s status as a public institution means sovereign immunity can be a factor, but gross negligence claims or Title IX issues can create exceptions.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

For Coryell County parents with students at UT Austin, it’s crucial to:

• Regularly check UT’s public Hazing Violations page to stay informed about organizations with a history of misconduct.
• Understand that “tradition” is no excuse for dangerous behavior.
• Preserve any evidence of hazing, digital or physical, as soon as it’s noticed.
• Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential case evaluation. Our firm understands the intricacies of hazing investigations at UT and can help ensure comprehensive accountability.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a private university in Dallas, draws a significant number of students from Coryell County due to its strong academic programs and active Greek life. This private status, however, affects how hazing incidents are investigated and communicated to the public.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is known for its beautiful campus, competitive academics, and a vibrant social scene heavily influenced by its robust Greek system. Many Coryell County students are attracted to SMU’s strong alumni network and prestigious offerings. The concentration of Greek life here means that hazing prevention and response are particularly critical.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains comprehensive anti-hazing policies that apply to all student organizations. These policies strictly prohibit any activity that humiliates, abuses, or endangers students. Reporting channels include the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, the SMU Police Department, and an anonymous online reporting system called “Don’t Be a Bystander – Report Hazing.” SMU, as a private university, generally has less public transparency about specific hazing investigations compared to public institutions, though they do address each incident internally.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Like many universities with strong Greek systems, SMU has confronted hazing challenges:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): This fraternity chapter was suspended for several years following allegations of hazing that included paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and severe sleep deprivation. The suspension meant the chapter was prohibited from recruiting or operating on campus until all requirements were met.
• Other Greek Organizations: SMU has disciplined various fraternities and sororities over the years for violations of alcohol policies, physical hazing, and conduct unbecoming of a student organization. While the full details are not always immediately public for private institutions, the disciplinary actions range from probation to multi-year suspensions.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases at SMU are often handled initially by the SMU Office of Student Conduct, but can involve the SMU Police Department or Dallas Police Department if criminal acts are alleged. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in Dallas County courts. As a private university, SMU may have a different legal position than public universities regarding sovereign immunity, potentially allowing for broader claims against the institution. Our firm in Houston handles hazing cases throughout Texas, including those affecting Coryell County families whose students attend SMU.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

For Coryell County students and parents involved with SMU:

• Understand SMU’s specific hazing definitions, as they can sometimes differ slightly from state law in how they apply to internal discipline.
• Prioritize gathering and preserving evidence discreetly, as information may not be as readily public as at state universities.
• If you suspect or experience hazing, report it through SMU’s official channels, but also contact Attorney911 early. Our experience with both public and private institutional cases allows us to advise on the nuances of each.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Christian institution in Waco, is another popular choice for Coryell County families. Its strong religious affiliation and history of addressing campus-wide misconduct add unique layers to its approach to hazing.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor offers a distinct blend of faith-based education and highly competitive programs, from athletics to entrepreneurship. Its campus in Waco, relatively accessible for Coryell County residents, fosters a close-knit community but also maintains various student organizations, including a Greek system, club sports, and spirit groups, all subject to university rules on conduct.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor’s anti-hazing policy is stringent, reflecting its commitment to student welfare and Christian principles. The policy prohibits any form of hazing that risks mental or physical health, and lists specific prohibited activities, including forced consumption, physical abuse, and any act that demeans or causes shame. Reporting can be made through the Dean of Students Office, the Baylor Police Department (BUPD), or an anonymous online reporting system called “EthicsPoint.” Baylor also issues a biennial report on hazing incidents involving student organizations.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor has faced scrutiny over various campus culture issues, and hazing is no exception:

• Baylor Baseball Team Hazing (2020): Following investigations into hazing allegations, 14 members of the Baylor baseball team were suspended. The suspensions were staggered to allow the team to complete its season but reflected the university’s serious approach to disciplinary action within high-profile athletic programs. The hazing reportedly involved forced alcohol consumption and acts of humiliation.
• Prior Hazing Violations: Baylor’s biennial hazing report often lists various fraternities, sororities, and other student groups that have violated hazing policies, with sanctions ranging from educational programs to chapter suspensions. These reports, while not always detailing every aspect of the incidents, indicate ongoing vigilance by the university against such behaviors.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases at Baylor University would typically involve the Baylor Police Department (BUPD) or Waco Police for criminal investigations. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in McLennan County courts. As a private Christian university, Baylor’s institutional response may differ from public universities. However, like SMU, private institutions remain fully liable for negligence and other torts, without the shield of sovereign immunity. Attorney911 regularly represents families across Texas and understands the unique dynamics of private university litigation.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

Coryell County families with students at Baylor should:

• Familiarize themselves with Baylor’s specific hazing definitions and reporting mechanisms, as the university’s values-based approach may color its internal processes.
• Leverage Baylor’s biennial hazing reports to research the history of organizations your child might join.
• Contact Attorney911 (1-888-ATTY-911) for early legal guidance if hazing is suspected. Our experience in confronting institutional negligence, even in complex private settings, is invaluable.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Connecting an alleged hazing incident at a local chapter to the national organization’s history is a critical element of establishing liability in a civil lawsuit. For Coryell County families whose children attend UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor, understanding this link is vital. Many fraternities and sororities operating on these Texas campuses are part of larger national organizations, and these national entities often bear significant responsibility when hazing occurs.

Why National Histories Matter

National fraternity and sorority headquarters maintain strict anti-hazing policies, risk management guidelines, and educational programs. Why? Because they have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of hazing—deaths, catastrophic injuries, and multi-million-dollar lawsuits—at chapters across the country.

When a Texas chapter repeats a dangerous “tradition” that previously led to injury or death at another chapter of the same national organization, it can demonstrate foreseeability and prior knowledge. This is a powerful legal argument: if the national organization knew (or reasonably should have known) that a particular type of hazing causes harm, and failed to prevent it at a local chapter, they can be held accountable for negligence.

Our strategy often involves proving that:

• The national organization was aware of historical patterns of hazing within its chapters.
• Their anti-hazing policies were often “paper policies” – not adequately enforced.
• They failed to properly train, supervise, or discipline local chapters and members.
• They prioritized membership growth, chapter expansion, or public image over student safety.

Organization Mapping: National Hazing Patterns Affecting Texas

Here are common hazing patterns and notable national incidents linked to organizations that may have chapters at Texas universities, including UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike): Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha has faced multiple hazing lawsuits related to forced alcohol consumption. The tragic Stone Foltz case at Bowling Green State University in 2021, where Foltz died from alcohol poisoning after a “Big/Little” drinking event, resulted in criminal convictions and a $10 million settlement. Another notable case, the David Bogenberger death at Northern Illinois University in 2012, due to alcohol poisoning, led to a $14 million settlement. This pattern demonstrates a foreseeable risk of extreme alcohol hazing within the organization.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): Often labeled “America’s deadliest fraternity” due to a string of hazing-related deaths and serious injuries, SAE nationally has faced extensive scrutiny. While the national organization eliminated its pledging process in 2014, incidents continue. Lawsuits include a traumatic brain injury (TBI) suit at the University of Alabama, a $1 million claim at Texas A&M involving chemical burns where pledges had industrial-strength cleaner poured on them, and an assault lawsuit at UT Austin stemming from a party. The pattern shows a history of physical and alcohol hazing.
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Nationally recognized for the Max Gruver death at LSU in 2017, where Gruver died from alcohol poisoning during a “Bible study” hazing ritual. This case led to Louisiana’s felony hazing law and multi-million-dollar civil settlements.
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): This national fraternity has been linked to severe hazing, including the Andrew Coffey death at Florida State University in 2017 due to alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night.” Most notably, Attorney911 is actively litigating a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter at the University of Houston for the severe hazing of Leonel Bermudez in late 2025, which resulted in rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Nationally infamous for the Timothy Piazza death at Penn State in 2017, where Piazza suffered brain injuries and died after a night of forced drinking and delayed medical attention. His case led to Pennsylvania’s tough anti-hazing law and substantial confidential settlements.
• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI): Faced significant national attention with the Danny Santulli case at the University of Missouri in 2021. Santulli suffered severe, permanent brain damage after being forced to consume excessive alcohol, leading to multi-million-dollar settlements with 22 defendants.
• Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ): This historically Black fraternity has faced multiple hazing allegations, including a federal lawsuit in 2023 concerning Rafeal Joseph, who alleged repeated physical beatings with a wooden paddle at the University of Southern Mississippi, requiring emergency surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): The tragic drowning of Chad Meredith at the University of Miami in 2001, tied to Kappa Sigma hazing, resulted in a $12.6 million jury verdict for his family and led to Florida’s Chad Meredith Law. Kappa Sigma has also been involved in more recent hazing allegations, such as those at Texas Christian University and Texas A&M.
• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): This national fraternity was involved in a case where a family received more than $10 million in damages following allegations of physical beatings, forced consumption of drugs and alcohol, and psychological torment at the College of Charleston in 2024.
• Alpha Phi Alpha (ΑΦΑ): This historically Black fraternity has faced hazing allegations, including incidents at Morehouse College (1989), where a pledge died after physical hazing, and Cornell University (1995), where a pledge suffered a life-threatening infection after being paddled.

Note: We are NOT claiming that this specific Coryell County chapter has engaged in hazing. However, these national incidents demonstrate a history and pattern that can be relevant when evaluating liability.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The documented national histories of hazing-related deaths and severe injuries are essential for a robust legal strategy. They help us prove that:

• Hazing is foreseeable: National organizations cannot credibly claim ignorance to the dangers of hazing when similar incidents have occurred across their chapters for decades, often leading to tragic outcomes.
• Nationals had prior notice: Each instance of severe hazing, disciplinary action, or lawsuit serves as a warning that certain “traditions” or leadership failures create dangerous environments.
• Policies are often inadequate or unenforced: The mere existence of anti-hazing policies means little if nationals fail to actively supervise, educate, and intervene to prevent known dangers.

This can significantly affect:

• Settlement leverage: Establishing foreseeability strengthens demands for fair compensation.
• Insurance coverage disputes: It helps to counter arguments that hazing was an unforeseeable or excluded “intentional act.”
• Potential for punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or deliberate indifference, demonstrating a national pattern can support claims for punitive damages, which are designed to punish egregious conduct and deter future harm.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

For Coryell County families embarking on a hazing lawsuit, the process can feel overwhelming. However, a meticulously built case, grounded in powerful evidence and a clear understanding of damages, is the key to holding accountable those responsible. Attorney911 approaches every hazing case with the investigative rigor necessary to uncover the truth and secure justice.

Evidence: The Cornerstones of a Hazing Case

Modern hazing investigations rely heavily on digital evidence, often created by the perpetrators themselves. Our firm employs a comprehensive approach to gather and preserve every piece of available information.

• Digital Communications: This is often the most critical category. Group chats and direct messages (DMs) on platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook Messenger, and fraternity-specific apps are invaluable. They can reveal:

  • Planning: Discussions about hazing events, instructions to new members, purchasing of alcohol.
  • Intent and Knowledge: Messages indicating awareness of the dangers or discussions about covering up activities.
  • Pattern: Recurring “traditions” or types of events that align with past hazing incidents.
  • “What happens here stays here” culture: Explicit instructions to pledges to lie or keep secrets.
  • Screenshot everything: If you suspect hazing, discreetly screenshot relevant conversations, making sure to capture timestamps, participant names, and full context. Even if messages are disappearing (like on Snapchat), screen recording or rapid-fire screenshots are vital. Digital forensics experts can often recover deleted messages, but original captures are always best. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains why this is so important and how to do it correctly.

• Photos & Videos: Perpetrators often record hazing for “fun” or “bragging rights.” This user-generated content, along with security footage, is crucial:

  • Member-generated content: Photos and videos captured by perpetrators on their phones and shared in group chats or on social media. These often show hazing in progress, injuries sustained, or humiliating acts.
  • Security camera footage: From houses, university buildings, or nearby businesses. If hazing occurred at a bar or commercial venue, these should be requested immediately before they are overwritten.
  • Evidence of injuries: High-quality photos of bruises, burns, cuts, and any other physical harm, taken from multiple angles and with reference points for scale. Documenting progression over several days is also important.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These records provide objective evidence of physical and emotional harm.

  • Emergency room reports, ambulance records, hospital charts, and toxicology screenings: Document immediate injuries, alcohol/drug levels, and initial diagnoses.
  • Lab results: Especially critical in cases like Leonel Bermudez’s (UH), where creatine kinase (CK) levels confirmed rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure.
  • Therapy and counseling records: Document the psychological toll of hazing, including diagnoses of PTSD, anxiety, depression, or suicidal ideation.

• Internal Organization Documents: Subpoenaed through litigation, these can include:

  • Pledge manuals, “new member education” guides, or “tradition” documents.
  • Emails or texts between chapter officers, new member educators, or national representatives regarding new member activities.
  • National organization’s anti-hazing policies and risk management guidelines, juxtaposed against actual practices.

• University Records: Through discovery or public records requests (especially at public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT), we seek:

  • Prior disciplinary records for the specific chapter or organization.
  • Complaints or incident reports filed by other students or parents.
  • Campus police reports related to the organization.
  • Internal communications among university administrators regarding hazing at that organization.
  • The university’s hazing reporting portal logs and published disciplinary actions.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are powerful. This includes:

  • Other pledges or new members, even if initially reluctant to speak.
  • Former members who left the organization over hazing concerns.
  • Bystanders, roommates, or RAs who observed changes in the victim or directly witnessed hazing acts.

Damages: Recovering What Was Lost

Hazing exacts a heavy toll, both visible and invisible. A lawsuit aims to recover damages—monetary compensation—for all categories of harm suffered.

• Economic Damages: These are quantifiable financial losses.
  • Medical Bills & Future Care: Immediate ER/hospital costs, ongoing therapy (physical, occupational, psychological), medication, and potentially lifelong care plans for severe injuries like traumatic brain injury (TBI) or organ damage (as in the Bermudez case).
  • Lost Earnings & Educational Impact: Tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships, delayed entry into the workforce, and reduced earning capacity if injuries lead to permanent disability.
• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
  • Physical Pain & Suffering: Past and future pain from injuries, and the impact of permanent physical limitations.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: Diagnosed conditions like PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, and the deep emotional scars of humiliation, fear, and loss of dignity. Psychiatric care is a significant component of this.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: The inability to participate in hobbies, sports, or social activities, and the overall diminishment of the college experience.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In tragic cases resulting in death, families can recover for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and their own grief, mental anguish, and loss of companionship. Cases like Max Gruver (LSU) and Stone Foltz (BGSU) resulted in multi-million-dollar recoveries for families who lost a child to hazing.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious conduct, severe recklessness, or deliberate indifference, punitive damages may be awarded. These are designed to punish the defendants and deter future hazing. In Texas, punitive damages can be awarded but may be capped in some circumstances. Demonstrating a clear pattern of ignored warnings or cover-ups strengthens punitive claims.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Holding multiple parties accountable is crucial. National fraternities and universities typically carry substantial insurance policies designed to cover legal liabilities. However, insurers often try to argue that hazing is an “intentional act” or falls under specific exclusions to deny coverage.

• Experienced hazing lawyers like Attorney911 know how to:
  • Identify every potential defendant, from individuals to the local chapter, national organization, and university.
  • Locate all applicable insurance policies (chapter, national, individual homeowner, university umbrella policies).
  • Challenge insurance companies’ attempts to deny coverage by framing the case as negligent supervision (which is typically covered) rather than merely an intentional act. Lupe Peña, with her background as a former insurance defense attorney, offers invaluable insight into these complex negotiations, knowing exactly how to counter their strategies.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For Coryell County families and students navigating potential hazing situations, immediate, actionable information is a lifeline. Knowledge is power, and knowing your rights and the steps to take can protect lives and futures.

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Your intuition is a powerful tool. Pay attention to subtle changes in your child.

• Warning Signs of Hazing:
  • Physical injuries: Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or “accidents” with inconsistent stories. Extreme fatigue, sudden weight loss or gain, or signs of sleep deprivation. Medical issues like the rhabdomyolysis or acute kidney failure seen in the Leonel Bermudez case.
  • Behavioral changes: Sudden secrecy, withdrawal from former friends or family, increased anxiety, irritability, or depression. They might become defensive when asked about their group or constantly talk about “having to get through this.”
  • Academic impact: Grades dropping, missing classes, or sleep in class due to late-night activities.
  • Financial strain: Unexpected requests for money for “fines,” forced purchases, or excessive dues not initially disclosed.
  • Digital red flags: Constant phone checking, anxiety about group chats, deleting messages, or installing geo-tracking apps like Find My Friends at the group’s demand.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach with empathy, not accusation. Say, “I’ve noticed you seem tired/stressed lately. How are things really going with [group]?” Emphasize their safety and well-being above any group loyalty. Reassure them you will support them, no matter what.
• If Your Child is Hurt: Prioritize their health. Get them medical care immediately. Document everything: take photos of injuries, screenshot any messages (texts, group chats) they show you, and write down dates, times, and everything they share while it’s fresh. Preserve any physical evidence, like clothing.
• Dealing with the University: Document every interaction. Ask specific questions about prior incidents involving the same organization and the university’s response. Remember, the university’s internal process and your child’s legal rights are separate.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child sustains significant physical or psychological harm or if the university or organization seems to be minimizing the incident, contact Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

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

You are not alone, and you have rights.

• Is This Hazing or Just “Tradition”? If an activity makes you feel unsafe, humiliated, coerced, or degrades you; if you’re forced to drink or endure pain; if it’s hidden from the public or administrators – it is hazing. Your gut feeling is likely correct. If it makes you question your participation or feel threatened, it’s a problem. Review the three tiers of hazing (subtle, harassment, violent) outlined earlier in this guide (Section 2.3).
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: The law, particularly in Texas, recognizes that “agreeing” to an activity under peer pressure, fear of exclusion, or the desire to belong is not true consent. You are not obligated to harm yourself or others, no matter what you’ve been “told” about initiation.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time, without penalty. If you feel unsafe, remove yourself from the situation and immediately call a trusted adult or emergency services (911). You can report hazing confidentially or anonymously through university channels, the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE), or to organizations like Attorney911.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and Texas law offer “medical amnesty” or “good Samaritan” provisions, protecting students (even minors) from legal or university penalties if they call for help in an alcohol- or drug-related medical emergency. Your health and safety matter most.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

Your experience matters, and your voice can prevent future tragedies.

• Your Role in Accountability: If you were involved in or witnessed hazing, your testimony or evidence can be crucial in holding responsible parties accountable and preventing others from suffering. While you might fear consequences, your information can change lives.
• Understanding Your Exposure: If you played a role in hazing, you might have civil or criminal exposure. It is advisable to seek your own legal counsel for privileged advice before speaking with investigators.
• How You Can Help: With legal guidance, you might be able to offer a confidential statement, provide evidence (text messages, photos), or testify in a manner that protects your interests while contributing to justice. Your participation can lead to a sense of closure and purpose.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Coryell County families, avoiding common missteps is crucial to protect your child’s rights and ensure a strong legal case.

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence: What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble.” Why it’s wrong: This can be seen as a cover-up, potentially lead to obstruction of justice charges, and make proving your case nearly impossible. What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing or ambiguous content.
2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly: What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.” Why it’s wrong: This immediately puts the organization on alert, causes them to destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defense. What to do instead: Document everything, then call a lawyer experienced in hazing litigation before any direct confrontation.
3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms: What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements. Why it’s wrong: You may unknowingly waive your right to sue, and any settlement from the university might be far below the actual value of your case. What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or an insurance company without an attorney reviewing it first.
4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer: What families think: “I want people to know what happened.” Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys will screenshot everything you post and use any inconsistencies or emotional statements against you, potentially harming your credibility and waiving legal privileges. What to do instead: Document privately and allow your lawyer to control public messaging if and when appropriate.
5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting” with the organization: What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic.” Why it’s wrong: These meetings are often designed to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements from your child that could damage their case. What to do instead: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication should go through your lawyer.
6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it”: What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally.” Why it’s wrong: Evidence rapidly disappears, witnesses graduate or forget details, and the statute of limitations may run. The university’s internal process is aimed at protecting the university, not necessarily providing full accountability or compensation to your child. What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW, consult a lawyer immediately, and understand that the university’s process is not the same as securing real legal accountability.
7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer: What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.” Why it’s wrong: Any recorded statement you provide will be used against you, and early settlement offers are almost always lowball attempts to minimize their payout. What to do instead: Politely decline to provide a statement and inform them that your attorney will contact them.

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) often claim sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, failure to protect under Title IX (if applicable), or when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity shields. Every case depends on its unique facts. Contact Attorney911 (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, but it escalates to a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who fail to report hazing can also face Class A misdemeanor charges.
• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. The law recognizes that true voluntary consent is often impossible in hazing environments due to power imbalances, peer pressure, and the fear of exclusion.
• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, Texans have two years from the date of injury or death to file a hazing lawsuit. However, the “discovery rule” can extend this if the victim was unaware of the injury or its cause. Rapid action is critical: evidence disappears, memories fade, and the clock is always ticking. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 promptly.
• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national organizations can still be held responsible based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge of the activity, and the foreseeability of harm. Many major hazing cases (e.g., the Pi Delta Psi retreat death in Pennsylvania) successfully pursued liability even for incidents occurring off-campus.
• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  In hazing cases, privacy is often a significant concern. Most civil hazing cases settle confidentially before ever going to trial. Our firm prioritizes your family’s privacy interests while aggressively pursuing accountability and compensation.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and are equipped to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm / Attorney911, we stand as Legal Emergency Lawyers™ with the depth of knowledge, experience, and relentlessness required to confront colleges, universities, and national fraternities.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Coryell County and surrounding areas. We recognize that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Coryell County and across the entire region.

Our firm’s unique qualifications for hazing cases include:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, is a former insurance defense attorney for a national firm. She knows precisely how fraternity and university insurance companies evaluate, delay, and attempt to deny hazing claims. Her experience means we know their playbook inside and out, allowing us to anticipate their strategies and effectively fight for your rights.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, taking on a billion-dollar defendant. This experience, coupled with extensive federal court practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, means our firm is not intimidated by powerful national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams. We fight for you with the same tenacity and expertise.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases, working with economists and medical experts to accurately value cases involving lifetime care needs, brain injuries, and permanent disabilities. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force accountability.
• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) equips us with a unique understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. We can advise on both criminal exposure and civil liability, offering comprehensive guidance.
• Investigative Depth: We leverage a vast network of experts—from digital forensics specialists to medical professionals, economists, and psychologists—to build an unassailable case. We work tirelessly to obtain hidden evidence, including deleted group chats, chapter records, and university files, ensuring no stone is left unturned.

We understand that hazing at Texas universities can turn a dream into a nightmare for Coryell County families. We empathize with the pain, confusion, and anger that hazing inflicts. Our job is to get you answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We believe in thorough investigation and unwavering advocacy for real accountability.

Call to Action

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

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

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story without judgment.
• We’ll review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• We’ll explain your legal options, including a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, or both.
• We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what you can expect from the legal process.
• We’ll answer your questions about costs, as we work on a contingency fee basis—we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Watch our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
• You are under no pressure to hire us on the spot; we encourage you to take time to decide.
• Everything you share with us is confidential.

Whether you’re in Coryell County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. This is not just about a lawsuit; it’s about protecting future students and ensuring that dangerous behaviors are eradicated from our universities.

Call Attorney911 today.

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

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

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

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