Hazing at Texas Universities: A Complete Legal Guide for Amarillo, Texas Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You Have Rights

The Nightmare Scenario for Amarillo Parents

It starts with a phone call you never wanted to receive. Your son at Texas Tech texts he’s “too sore to walk” after a fraternity event. Your daughter at West Texas A&M stops answering calls, then admits through tears she’s being forced to stay up all night for “pledge duties.” The University of Texas student you sent off to Austin comes home on break with unexplained bruises and a hollow look you’ve never seen before.

For families right here in Amarillo—whether your children attend nearby West Texas A&M in Canyon, Texas Tech in Lubbock, or schools hours away in College Station, Austin, or Houston—the reality of university hazing can shatter the college experience you worked so hard to provide. What begins as excitement about joining a campus organization can spiral into physical danger, psychological trauma, and institutional stonewalling when hazing culture takes over.

Right now, in Harris County, we’re leading one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. We represent Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. According to court documents and media reports, Bermudez was subjected to extreme physical abuse as a pledge in fall 2025—forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats, sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” made to lie in vomit-soaked grass, and compelled to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting. The result? Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown), acute kidney failure, brown urine, and a four-day hospitalization with ongoing risk of permanent damage.

This isn’t an isolated incident in Houston. It’s part of a pattern happening across Texas—at campuses where Amarillo families send their children every year. And when it happens, parents need to know: This is not your child’s fault. Texas law protects victims. And experienced legal counsel can help you hold every responsible party accountable.

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)

In the first 48 hours:

Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they’re “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. 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.

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Tactics

When Amarillo parents think of hazing, many imagine outdated stereotypes—paddling rituals or harmless pranks. The reality in 2025 is more sophisticated, more dangerous, and often hidden behind digital screens and “optional” framing. Hazing today falls into three escalating categories that every Texas parent should recognize.

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing – These behaviors establish power imbalances while seeming “harmless”:

24/7 group chat monitoring with instant response demands
Mandatory chauffeuring at all hours
“Pledge fanny packs” with humiliating contents (as in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case)
Social isolation from non-members
Geographic tracking via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing – Activities causing clear discomfort:

Sleep deprivation through late-night “meetings” or 3 AM wake-up calls
Forced consumption of unpleasant substances (spoiled food, hot sauce, excessive milk)
“Smokings” or extreme calisthenics beyond safe limits
Digital humiliation through forced social media posts or TikTok challenges
Public degradation in front of peers

Tier 3: Violent Hazing – High-risk activities with injury/death potential:

Forced alcohol consumption games (“lineups,” “Bible study,” Big/Little nights)
Physical beatings and paddling
Dangerous “tests” like blindfolded tackles or “glass ceiling” rituals
Sexualized hazing including forced nudity or simulated acts
Chemical exposure (as in Texas A&M’s SAE case where pledges suffered burns from industrial cleaner)

The Digital Transformation of Hazing

Today’s hazing leaves a digital trail that can become powerful evidence:

Group Communication Platforms:

GroupMe (most common for Greek communication)
WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram for “private” planning
Discord servers with specialized channels
Fraternity-specific apps with membership tracking

Social Media Evidence:

Instagram Stories showing events in real-time
Snapchat snaps that “disappear” (but can be recovered)
TikTok challenges documenting humiliation
Facebook event pages and Messenger planning

The Cover-Up Culture:

Rapid message deletion after incidents
Coaching on what to tell parents/authorities
“Burner” phones or encrypted apps
Social pressure against screenshotting or saving evidence

For Amarillo families, understanding this digital landscape is crucial. The messages your child is receiving at 2 AM, the location tracking demanded by their chapter, the social media posts they’re forced to create—these aren’t just “college antics.” They’re evidence of systematic control and coercion.

Texas Hazing Law: What Amarillo Families Need to Know

The Foundation: Texas Education Code Chapter 37

Texas has specific anti-hazing statutes that provide both criminal penalties and civil liability pathways. For families in Amarillo dealing with incidents at Texas universities, these laws create powerful tools for accountability.

§37.151 Definition: Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
Occurs for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any organization

Critical Elements for Amarillo Families:

Location doesn’t matter: On-campus, off-campus house, Airbnb retreat—all covered
“Reckless” is enough: No need to prove malicious intent
Mental OR physical harm: Psychological trauma qualifies
Broad application: Fraternities, sororities, Corps, athletic teams, spirit groups, bands

§37.152 Criminal Penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing bodily injury
State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

§37.155 Consent Defense Eliminated: “It is not a defense to prosecution that the person being hazed consented to the hazing activity.” This is crucial—your child “agreeing” under peer pressure doesn’t make it legal.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding Both Paths

When hazing occurs, two parallel legal processes may unfold:

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State):

Purpose: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Common charges: Hazing, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter in fatal cases
Agencies: Campus police, local PD (Lubbock PD for Texas Tech, College Station PD for A&M, etc.)
Your role: Victim/witness, not party to the case

Civil Cases (Brought by Victims/Families):

Purpose: Compensation and accountability
Common claims: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
Venue: County where injury occurred or defendants are located
Your role: Plaintiff driving the case

These processes often run simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t required for civil success, but criminal evidence can strengthen civil claims.

Federal Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires universities receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
Mandates public hazing data by approximately 2026
Strengthens prevention education requirements

Title IX Implications:

When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility
Creates additional reporting obligations for universities
Can provide alternative accountability pathways

Clery Act Requirements:

Mandates reporting of certain crimes in annual security reports
Hazing incidents may trigger Clery reporting when they involve assault, alcohol crimes, or other reportable offenses

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

Alcohol Poisoning: The Deadliest Pattern

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
The 20-year-old pledge was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” event. He died from alcohol poisoning. The case resulted in multiple criminal convictions and a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU). Texas Connection: Pi Kappa Alpha operates chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, and other Texas schools.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
Gruver died during a “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking. His blood alcohol content reached 0.495%. The case led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute) and a $6.1 million verdict. Texas Connection: Phi Delta Theta has chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, and West Texas A&M.

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
The 19-year-old died from traumatic brain injuries after excessive drinking during a bid acceptance night. Security camera footage showed brothers delaying medical help for hours. The case resulted in Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. Texas Connection: Beta Theta Pi maintains chapters at UT Austin and Texas A&M.

Physical Abuse and Ritualized Violence

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
Deng died during a “glass ceiling” ritual at a Pennsylvania retreat—blindfolded, weighted with a backpack, and repeatedly tackled. Pi Delta Psi was convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. Pattern Relevance: Off-campus retreats are common in Texas Greek life.

Texas A&M Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns (2021)
Pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The chapter was suspended for two years, and lawsuits sought $1 million+. Local Relevance: This occurred at a Texas school, showing dangerous hazing happens here.

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the football program over multiple years. Multiple lawsuits led to head coach termination and confidential settlements. Texas Relevance: Major athletic programs at Texas schools carry similar risks.

What These Cases Mean for Amarillo Families:

Patterns repeat: The same fraternities, same rituals, same cover-ups
Universities often fail: Despite policies, dangerous cultures persist
Legal accountability works: Multi-million dollar settlements and criminal convictions
Your case matters: Each successful claim makes campuses safer for future students

Texas University Focus: Where Amarillo Students Attend

West Texas A&M University (Canyon, TX) – Your Local Campus

For Amarillo families, West Texas A&M represents both opportunity and risk. Located just 15 miles south in Canyon, WTAMU serves as the primary university for many Potter and Randall County students. With active Greek life and traditional campus organizations, hazing incidents here affect our immediate community.

Campus Greek Life includes:

Fraternities: Phi Delta Theta (Texas Theta chapter), Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Alpha Tau Omega
Sororities: Chi Omega (Upsilon Zeta), others through Panhellenic Council
Honor Societies: Multiple academic and leadership organizations

Local Legal Context:

Jurisdiction: Potter/Randall County courts
Law enforcement: WTAMU Police Department, Randall County Sheriff, Canyon PD
Medical care: Northwest Texas Healthcare System in Amarillo, Baptist St. Anthony’s Hospital

What Amarillo Parents Should Know:

Proximity doesn’t prevent hazing: Local chapters follow national patterns
WTAMU policies prohibit hazing but require enforcement
Evidence collection starts locally: Medical records at Amarillo hospitals, witness statements from local students
Our firm serves this community: We understand local courts and procedures

Recent Context: The Frank Heflin Foundation (EIN 203507402), a Phi Delta Theta alumni fund based in Canyon, illustrates how national Greek organizations maintain financial and structural presence in our area. This matters because alumni associations and housing corporations often hold insurance and assets that can provide compensation for victims.

Texas Tech University (Lubbock, TX) – Major Regional Destination

Many Amarillo students choose Texas Tech, creating a direct pipeline from our high schools to Lubbock campuses. With over 40,000 students and robust Greek life, Texas Tech represents both educational opportunity and hazing risk for our community.

Documented Greek Presence at Texas Tech:

50+ fraternity and sorority chapters
Active Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council
Multicultural Greek Council and National Pan-Hellenic Council

IRS-Registered Organizations Serving Texas Tech Greek Life:

Epsilon Nu Housing Corporation (EIN 237359384) – Lubbock, TX 79401
Alpha Omega Epsilon-Beta Alpha Chapter (EIN 473967233) – Lubbock, TX 79416
TKE OP Housing (EIN 475033161) – Lubbock, TX 79423
Farm House Fraternity Inc – Texas Tech University Chapter (EIN 751565336) – Lubbock, TX 79416

Lubbock Metro Greek Ecosystem:
According to Cause IQ data, the Lubbock metro area hosts 59 Greek-related organizations including:

Texas Tech Chapter of Phi Delta Theta Housing
Kappa Alpha Order – Texas Tech (Gamma Chi chapter)
Alpha Phi Omega – TTU Chapter
Delta Kappa Gamma Society – Lubbock chapters

Legal Considerations for Amarillo Families:

Venue: Lubbock County courts handle Texas Tech cases
Medical facilities: University Medical Center in Lubbock often treats hazing injuries
Distance factor: 120 miles from Amarillo means evidence preservation before travel
Our capability: We regularly handle Lubbock cases and understand the local legal landscape

Texas A&M University (College Station, TX)

As a flagship Texas university, Texas A&M attracts many Panhandle students. The Corps of Cadets and robust Greek life create multiple potential hazing environments that Amarillo parents should understand.

Recent Texas A&M Hazing Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):
Two pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The chapter was suspended for two years, and lawsuits sought over $1 million.

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023):
A cadet alleged being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” position with an apple in his mouth as part of degrading hazing. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, with Texas A&M stating it handled the matter under its rules.

Greek Life at Texas A&M:

60+ fraternity and sorority chapters
Active Corps of Cadets with traditional practices
Multiple spirit organizations and athletic teams

College Station-Bryan Metro Greek Entities (42 total per Cause IQ):

Sigma Chi Fraternity – Eta Upsilon (Texas A&M chapter)
Omega Psi Phi – Tau Tau (Texas A&M chapter)
Beta Theta Pi – Eta Chapter House Corp
Delta Sigma Theta – Brazos Valley Alumnae

IRS-B83 Registered Organizations in College Station:

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc (EIN 133048786) – 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – Theta Rho (EIN 812525354) – 3989 N Graham Rd, College Station, TX 77845
Texas Nu-Phi Delta Theta Fraternity (EIN 814123811) – 1016 Fairview Ave, College Station, TX 77840

For Amarillo Families Considering Texas A&M:

Corps culture carries unique risks: Military-style traditions can escalate
Greek life is massive: Larger system means more potential for dangerous “traditions”
University response varies: A&M has suspended chapters but patterns persist
Legal venue: Brazos County courts, though multidistrict litigation may apply

University of Texas at Austin

UT Austin’s scale and Greek life prominence make it a hazing hotspot. For Amarillo students attending Texas’s flagship university, understanding the campus’s hazing history is crucial.

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Log provides unprecedented transparency:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. Sanction: probation + hazing prevention education.
Texas Wranglers (spirit organization): Sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing.
Multiple other groups with violations for alcohol hazing, physical abuse, or punishment-based practices.

Austin-Round Rock Metro Greek Infrastructure:
According to Cause IQ, 154 Greek organizations operate in the metro area, including:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Rho Corp. (UT chapter house corporation)
Delta Tau Delta – Gamma Iota Chapter (UT chapter house)
Beta Xi House Corp. of Kappa Kappa Gamma (UT chapter house corporation)
Building Corporation – Alpha Delta Pi (UT chapter property)

IRS-B83 Austin-Registered Greek Entities:

Chi Omega Fraternity (EIN 740555581) – 2711 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705 (Chi Omega House Corporation)
Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity Inc (EIN 741130606) – 1908 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705 (Alpha Mu chapter)
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (EIN 463831593) – 2307 Vanderbilt Cir, Austin, TX 78723 (Texas State University chapter)

Legal Considerations for Amarillo Families:

Travis County venue: Austin-based courts handle UT cases
University transparency advantage: Public violation logs help establish patterns
Scale matters: More chapters means more potential for dangerous behaviors
Our firm’s reach: We maintain Austin offices and regularly practice in Travis County courts

University of Houston

The Leonel Bermudez case shows UH’s serious hazing problem. For Amarillo families with students at Houston’s largest university, this ongoing litigation demonstrates both the risks and the legal pathways available.

The Bermudez Case Details:

Victim: Leonel Bermudez, UH transfer student and Pi Kappa Phi pledge
Allegations: “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation, forced consumption leading to vomiting, 100+ push-ups/500 squats sessions, hose spraying “similar to waterboarding”
Medical outcome: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, four-day hospitalization
Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national HQ, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual fraternity leaders
Status: Active $10 million lawsuit in Harris County

UH Greek Life Structure:

50+ fraternity and sorority chapters across multiple councils
Active National Pan-Hellenic Council (Divine Nine organizations)
Multicultural Greek Council serving diverse student groups

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro Greek Presence:
188 Greek organizations operate in the metro area per Cause IQ, including:

Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (alumni/house corp.)
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Alpha Kappa Omega (grad chapter)
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Beta Sigma Chapter

IRS-B83 Houston Greek Entities:

Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter (EIN 746084905) – 4300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (EIN 746064445) – 1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627 (Epsilon Kappa chapter)
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers Inc (EIN 760221936) – PO Box 271704, Houston, TX 77277

For Amarillo Families with UH Students:

Urban campus dynamics: Off-campus houses increase oversight challenges
Harris County legal advantage: Favorable plaintiff venues
Medical facilities: Texas Medical Center provides documentation advantages
Our home base: Houston is our primary office location; we know this jurisdiction intimately

Fraternities & Sororities: National Patterns Across Texas Campuses

Why National Histories Matter for Amarillo Families

When your child joins a chapter at a Texas university, they’re not just joining a local group—they’re connecting to a national organization with decades of history, patterns of behavior, and established legal liabilities. These national histories create what courts call “foreseeability”—if a fraternity knew about dangerous hazing at other chapters, they should have prevented it at yours.

Major National Organizations with Texas Presence

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) – Pattern of Alcohol Hazing

National history: Stone Foltz death (BGSU 2021), David Bogenberger death (NIU 2012)
Texas chapters: UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Texas State, others
Legal significance: $10M Foltz settlement shows national liability
Amarillo connection: Alumni may live locally, national insurance covers Texas chapters

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) – Multiple Hazing Modalities

National history: Multiple deaths, traumatic brain injury case (Alabama 2023), chemical burns (Texas A&M 2021)
Texas chapters: UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, SMU, Baylor
Legal significance: Pattern shows reckless disregard for safety
Amarillo connection: Operates at universities Amarillo students attend

Pi Kappa Phi – Current Texas Litigation

National history: Andrew Coffey death (FSU 2017), Leonel Bermudez case (UH 2025)
Texas chapters: University of Houston (Beta Nu now closed), other Texas schools
Legal significance: Active litigation demonstrates ongoing pattern
Amarillo connection: Bermudez case sets Texas precedent

Phi Delta Theta – Alcohol Fatality Pattern

National history: Max Gruver death (LSU 2017) leading to Louisiana felony law
Texas chapters: UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, West Texas A&M
Legal significance: $6.1M verdict shows jury willingness to hold accountable
Local connection: Active at West Texas A&M in Canyon

The Insurance and Corporate Structure Behind Greek Letters

Amarillo parents often don’t realize: that fraternity house isn’t just a student club. It’s part of a complex corporate and insurance structure:

Common Entities (Per IRS B83 Data):

National Headquarters: 501(c)(7) or (c)(10) organizations with multi-million dollar budgets
Housing Corporations: Separate legal entities owning chapter houses
Alumni Chapters: Maintain ongoing relationships and funding
Educational Foundations: Fund scholarships and sometimes legal defenses
Local Chapter Corporations: Legal entities for local operations

Example from IRS Data – Pi Kappa Phi Structure:

National HQ: Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (multiple state registrations)
Housing Corp: Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN 462267515) – Frisco, TX
Alumni Support: Multiple alumni associations across Texas

Insurance Implications:

General liability policies: Often $1M+ per occurrence
Umbrella coverage: Additional layers through national organizations
Homeowner’s policies: May cover individual members’ actions
University policies: May provide additional coverage

Why This Matters for Amarillo Families:

Multiple deep pockets: Not just students’ personal assets
Corporate liability: Organizations can be sued separately from individuals
Insurance battles: Coverage disputes require experienced counsel
Asset tracing: Finding all responsible entities maximizes recovery

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Compensation

Critical Evidence Categories for Texas Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important in 2025):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, Signal, Discord, fraternity apps
Social media: Instagram Stories, Snapchat snaps, TikTok videos, Facebook events
Text messages: iPhone/Android messages with timestamps
Email chains: Chapter communications, national correspondence
Location data: Find My Friends, Snapchat Maps, Google Timeline
Digital forensics: Recovering deleted messages and media

Physical Evidence:

Medical records: ER reports, hospitalization records, specialist consultations
Photographic evidence: Injuries, hazing locations, objects used
Physical objects: Paddles, alcohol containers, pledge materials
Clothing: Stained or damaged items from hazing events

Documentary Evidence:

University records: Prior conduct violations, probation letters, Clery reports
Fraternity records: Pledge manuals, meeting minutes, risk management reports
Financial records: Dues payments, event receipts, alcohol purchases
Witness statements: Other pledges, former members, roommates, RAs

Expert Testimony:

Medical experts: Documenting injuries and long-term effects
Mental health professionals: Diagnosing PTSD, depression, anxiety
Greek life experts: Explaining organizational culture and coercion
Digital forensics experts: Recovering and authenticating electronic evidence
Economists: Calculating lifetime earning capacity losses

The Defendant Universe: Who Can Be Held Liable

Individual Students:

Those who planned, executed, or covered up hazing
Chapter officers with supervisory responsibility
Members who supplied alcohol or participated

Local Chapter:

As a legal entity (if incorporated)
Through its housing corporation
Through its alumni association

National Fraternity/Sorority:

For negligent supervision and training
For failing to enforce anti-hazing policies
For prior knowledge of dangerous patterns

University/Board of Regents:

Under negligent supervision theories
For Title IX violations (if gender-based)
For Clery Act failures (if crime reporting required)
Note: Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity limitations

Third Parties:

Property owners/landlords of hazing locations
Alcohol providers (dram shop liability)
Security companies or event organizers

Damages: What Texas Law Allows for Recovery

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical expenses: Past and future treatment, therapy, medications
Lost income: Current lost wages, future earning capacity reduction
Educational costs: Tuition for interrupted semesters, lost scholarships
Other expenses: Therapy, tutoring, relocation costs

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm):

Physical pain and suffering: From injuries and treatment
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment: Inability to participate in college life
Reputational harm: Social and professional consequences

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

Economic losses: Funeral costs, lost financial support
Non-economic losses: Loss of companionship, parental grief
Punitive damages: In cases of egregious conduct (capped in Texas)

Recent Texas and National Settlement Benchmarks:

Stone Foltz (Pi Kappa Alpha): $10 million total settlement
Max Gruver (Phi Delta Theta): $6.1 million jury verdict
Texas A&M SAE case: $1 million+ demand (chemical burns)
UH Pi Kappa Phi case: $10 million demand (active litigation)

Strategic Considerations for Amarillo Families

Venue Selection:

County of injury: Where hazing occurred
Defendant’s location: Where national HQ or chapter is based
Plaintiff’s location: Potentially Potter/Randall County for Amarillo families

Statute of Limitations:

Personal injury: Generally 2 years from date of injury in Texas
Wrongful death: Generally 2 years from date of death
Discovery rule: May extend time if injury wasn’t immediately apparent
Minors: Time may be tolled until age 18

Insurance Coverage Battles:

Multiple policies: Chapter, national, university, individual
Coverage disputes: Intentional act exclusions, alcohol exclusions
Bad faith claims: When insurers wrongfully deny coverage

Privacy Considerations:

Confidential settlements: Most cases settle with privacy protections
Sealed records: Court documents can often be sealed
Media strategy: Controlled communication to protect victim

Practical Guide for Amarillo Parents and Students

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Indicators:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
Extreme fatigue or exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Sudden weight changes (from food/water restriction or stress)
Sleep deprivation symptoms: dark circles, nodding off in daytime
Injuries to hands, back, or legs consistent with paddling or exercise
Chemical burns, rashes, or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning or drug use in non-users

Behavioral Changes:

New secrecy about organizational activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
Withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-Greek activities
Personality shifts: new anxiety, depression, irritability, or anger
Defensiveness when asked about the organization
Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
Obsession with pleasing older members
Talking about “just getting through” initiation

Academic Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or falling asleep in class
Skipping assignments for “mandatory” events
Losing scholarships or academic standing

Digital/Social Behavior:

Constant phone checking for group chat messages
Anxiety when phone buzzes, especially at odd hours
Deleting messages or clearing browser history obsessively
Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response
Social media posts showing concerning or humiliating activities
New location-sharing app usage (Find My Friends, Life360)

How to Talk to Your Child (Non-Confrontationally):

“How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
“Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
“Do you feel like you can leave if you want to, or would there be consequences?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”

If You Suspect Hazing – Immediate Steps:

Prioritize safety: If in immediate danger, call 911 or campus police
Document everything: Write down dates, times, details of what your child shares
Preserve evidence: Screenshot messages, photograph injuries, save physical items
Seek medical care: Even if injuries seem minor, get professional documentation
Contact an attorney: Before reporting to university or facing the organization

For Students: Your Rights and Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment Questions:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents or university approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
Is this “tradition” really about initiation, or just entertainment for older members?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide activities?

If It’s Hazing – Safety First:

Immediate danger: Call 911, get to a safe location
Medical emergency: Seek help immediately – good-faith reporter protections may apply
Exit strategy: You have the legal right to leave at any time
Documentation: Screenshot, photograph, record (Texas is one-party consent state)
Support system: Tell someone you trust outside the organization

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

Cannot be punished for calling 911 in good faith for medical emergencies
Hazing is a crime – you are the victim, not perpetrator
Consent is not a defense under Texas Education Code §37.155
Can request no-contact orders through university or courts
Statute of limitations generally gives you 2 years to file civil claims

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence

What happens: Messages disappear, cases collapse
Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up, eliminates best evidence
Better approach: Preserve everything, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization Directly

What happens: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Why it’s wrong: Gives them time to construct defenses
Better approach: Document silently, let your attorney handle communication

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms

What happens: You may waive legal rights for minimal compensation
Why it’s wrong: Early settlements are often far below case value
Better approach: Have attorney review ANY documents before signing

4. Posting on Social Media

What happens: Defense attorneys screenshot everything, inconsistencies hurt credibility
Why it’s wrong: Can waive attorney-client privilege, create impeachment evidence
Better approach: Document privately, let your attorney control public messaging

5. Talking to Insurance Adjusters

What happens: Recorded statements are used against you
Why it’s wrong: Adjusters work for the insurance company, not you
Better approach: “My attorney will contact you” – then say nothing else

6. Waiting for University “Internal Process”

What happens: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Why it’s wrong: University interests often conflict with victim interests
Better approach: Preserve evidence now, consult attorney immediately

7. Letting Your Child Return for “One Last Meeting”

What happens: Pressure, intimidation, extracted statements
Why it’s wrong: Creates opportunities for witness tampering
Better approach: Once considering legal action, all communication through attorney

Why Attorney911 for Amarillo Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Texas Hazing Litigation

When your Amarillo family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. Here’s why The Manginello Law Firm stands apart:

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña):
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
Deploy independent medical exams to minimize injuries
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendants
Federal Court Admitted: Southern District of Texas experience for Title IX and complex cases
HCCLA Membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association credential signals elite capability
25+ Years Practice: Handling high-stakes cases since 1998

Proven Multi-Million Dollar Results:

Wrongful death settlements in catastrophic injury cases
Economist collaboration for lifetime care valuation
Expert network including medical specialists, psychologists, digital forensics
Trial readiness that forces fair settlements

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability:

Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with potential exposure
Navigates parallel proceedings efficiently

Texas-Specific Geographic Mastery:

Offices in Houston, Austin, Beaumont covering key jurisdictions
Regular practice in: Potter/Randall County (Amarillo), Lubbock County (Texas Tech), Travis County (UT), Brazos County (Texas A&M), Harris County (UH)
Understanding of local courts, procedures, and opposing counsel

Spanish Language Services:

Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
Serving Hispanic families throughout Texas
Cultural understanding of community dynamics

Our Investigative Approach to Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence Mastery:

Partnering with digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages
Understanding Greek communication patterns across platforms
Preserving social media evidence before it disappears
Authenticating timestamps and participant identities

Organizational Investigation:

Tracing the corporate structure behind Greek letters
Identifying all potential defendants and insurance policies
Obtaining national fraternity records showing prior incidents
Documenting pattern evidence across chapters

Medical Documentation:

Working with specialists to document rhabdomyolysis, TBIs, psychological trauma
Calculating lifetime care needs for catastrophic injuries
Connecting immediate injuries to long-term consequences

University Records Acquisition:

Using public records requests for prior violations
Obtaining Clery reports and internal investigative files
Documenting institutional knowledge of dangerous patterns

What to Expect When You Contact Us

Your Free, Confidential Consultation:

We listen without judgment to your full story
Review any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, messages, medical records)
Explain your legal options clearly: criminal report, civil suit, both, or neither
Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
Answer all questions about costs (contingency fee – we don’t get paid unless we win)
No pressure to hire – take time to decide what’s right for your family
Everything you share is confidential – protected by attorney-client privilege

Our Fee Structure:

Contingency basis: No upfront costs, no hourly fees
We only get paid if we recover compensation for you
Percentage comes from recovery, not from your pocket
Case expenses advanced by our firm, repaid only if we win
Transparent accounting of all costs and fees

Our Communication Commitment:

Direct attorney access: You work with Ralph Manginello or Mr. Lupe Peña, not paralegals
Regular updates: We explain each step as your case progresses
24/7 availability: For true emergencies affecting safety or evidence
Spanish language: Full services available en español

Take Action Now: Amarillo Families Deserve Answers and Accountability

Your Next Steps

If hazing has affected your family:

Call us immediately: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Preserve evidence: Follow the 48-hour checklist above
Get medical documentation: Even for seemingly minor injuries
Write everything down: Memories fade, details matter
Avoid critical mistakes: Don’t confront, don’t sign, don’t post

Why time is critical:

Evidence disappears: Messages deleted, witnesses coached, items destroyed
Statutes run: Texas generally allows 2 years, but earlier is better
Medical documentation: Fresh injuries tell a clearer story
Witness memories: Details fade quickly

Contact Attorney911 Today

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Legal Emergency Lawyers™
Serving Amarillo, the Texas Panhandle, and Families Statewide

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

Practice Areas Relevant to Hazing Cases:

Wrongful Death Claims: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal Defense (for involved parties): https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
Complex Personal Injury Litigation

Educational Resources:

Evidence Preservation Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of Limitations Explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client Mistakes to Avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Contingency Fees Explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

For Amarillo Families Specifically

Whether your child attends:

West Texas A&M right here in Canyon
Texas Tech in Lubbock
Texas A&M in College Station
UT Austin in the state capital
University of Houston in our firm’s home city
Any Texas university where hazing has occurred

We understand the unique concerns of Panhandle families. The distance from Amarillo to major university centers doesn’t diminish your rights or our ability to help. We regularly handle cases across Texas and have the resources to investigate thoroughly regardless of location.

Final Message to Amarillo Parents:

You sent your child to college with dreams of their future. Hazing culture shouldn’t steal that future. The organizations behind these dangerous traditions have insurance, lawyers, and resources. Your family deserves equal footing.

The Leonel Bermudez case at UH shows what’s possible: holding a major university and national fraternity accountable for life-altering injuries. The national cases we’ve discussed demonstrate that courts will award substantial compensation when institutions fail to protect students.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. You don’t have to accept university platitudes or fraternity denials. You have rights under Texas law, and experienced counsel can help you enforce them.

Call us today for a free, confidential consultation. Let us listen to your story, explain your options, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family. Because when hazing shatters the college experience, accountability shouldn’t be optional.

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

Plain Text Links to Key Resources:

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Evidence Preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of Limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client Mistakes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Contingency Fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

Homepage: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful Death Practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal Defense: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
Ralph Manginello Profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Lupe Peña Profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/