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Your heart pounds as you scroll through late-night texts on your child’s phone, an unfamiliar knot twisting in your stomach. Words like “hell week,” “pledge tasks,” and “secret initiation” jump out. When you gently ask about it, your child, home for a brief visit from their Texas university, quickly shuts down, nervously laughing off your concerns with “It’s just tradition, Mom, everybody does it.” But later, you notice dark circles under their eyes, an uncharacteristic jumpiness, and a subtle bruise on their arm that they try to hide. The cheerful, confident student who left Angelina County weeks ago seems… different.

This is a scenario playing out in homes across Angelina County and throughout Texas. The vibrant campus life, the promise of lifelong friendships, the spirit of tradition—these are the dreams we have for our children’s college years. But sometimes, behind closed doors, a darker shadow falls. Hazing, often disguised as “tradition” or “bonding,” can turn those dreams into nightmares, leaving physical scars, deep emotional wounds, and, in far too many tragic instances, claiming young lives.

We know you want to believe your child is safe, especially when they’re away at a respected Texas institution like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Southern Methodist University, or Baylor. But the unfortunate truth is that hazing is a persistent and evolving danger across all types of student organizations. If you’re a parent in Lufkin or Pollok, Zavalla or Huntington, or anywhere in Angelina County, and you suspect your child is being hazed, this guide is for you.

This comprehensive guide pulls back the curtain on hazing and the law in Texas. We explain what hazing truly looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes to reveal the insidious tactics groups use today. We’ll break down the Texas and federal legal frameworks designed to protect students, drawing lessons from major national cases and connecting them directly to what’s happening at prominent Texas universities. You’ll learn how the national histories of fraternities and sororities, along with local chapter conduct, can fuel liability and legal action. Most importantly, we’ll outline the legal options available to victims and families in Angelina County and across Texas, offering a path toward accountability and healing.

This article provides general information and guidance, not specific legal advice for your individual situation. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC is dedicated to helping families throughout Texas, including Angelina County, navigate these complex and often devastating situations. We are here to help.

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 Angelina County families, understanding hazing in 2025 means shedding old stereotypes. Hazing is no longer just harmless pranks or silly initiations, and it rarely involves only “frat boys.” Modern hazing is far more insidious, dangerous, and often deeply embedded in a culture of secrecy and psychological manipulation. It targets individuals across a wide spectrum of student organizations, not just Greek life.

CLEAR, MODERN DEFINITION OF HAZING

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by an individual or group, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members are primarily students. This act endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student. This legally precise definition, common in Texas and federal law, is critical because it highlights several key points:

• Intent is not required for harm: The act can be reckless, meaning the person knew or should have known a risk existed.
• Mental or physical harm: Hazing isn’t limited to physical abuse; psychological torment is equally damaging.
• “Consent” is not a defense: As we will discuss, simply agreeing to participate does not make hazing legal or justifiable when it occurs under duress or pressure. The power imbalance inherent in hazing means that true, voluntary consent is often impossible.

MAIN CATEGORIES OF HAZING

Hazing manifests in various escalating forms, often moving from subtle manipulation to outright violence. It’s crucial to recognize the full spectrum, as even seemingly minor acts can be precursors to greater harm.

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing
These are behaviors that create a power imbalance and subtle forms of psychological manipulation. They are often dismissed as “harmless” traditions, but they erode self-esteem and prepare individuals for more extreme acts.

• Deception and Secrecy: Pledges are often told to lie or withhold information from parents, university officials, or other outsiders.
• Forced Servitude: Requiring new members to perform menial tasks, clean, cook, or act as designated drivers for older members at all hours.
• Social Isolation: Restricting contact with friends outside the organization or dictating who new members can socialize with.
• Disruption of Academics: Mandatory late-night meetings or activities that interfere with sleep, studying, or attending classes.
• Humiliating Tasks: “Scavenger hunts” or “tasks” designed to embarrass new members in public, like stealing items or performing degrading stunts.

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing
This tier involves behaviors that cause emotional or physical discomfort, creating a hostile and abusive environment. While not always physically violent, it instills fear and anxiety.

• Verbal Abuse: Constant yelling, screaming, insulting, or using demeaning language.
• Sleep Deprivation: Orchestrated late-night events, forced “study hours,” or early morning wake-ups that prevent adequate rest.
• Food and Water Restriction: Limiting access to food or water, or forcing the consumption of unappetizing or excessive quantities of substances (e.g., hot sauce, rotten food, milk until vomiting).
• Forced Physical Activity: “Smokings” or extreme calisthenics, forced runs, or other exercises far beyond safe limits, often designed for punishment rather than conditioning.
• Public Degradation: Forcing new members to wear embarrassing outfits, perform humiliating acts in public, or endure “roast” sessions where they are verbally attacked.
• Exposure to Unsanitary Conditions: Forcing new members into dirty environments or covering them with messy substances like food, spit, or eggs.

Tier 3: Violent Hazing
This is the most dangerous tier, carrying a high potential for physical injury, sexual assault, or death. These acts are often criminal and lead to severe, life-altering consequences.

• Forced Alcohol and Substance Consumption: The most common form of fatal hazing. This includes “lineup” drinking games, “Big/Little” nights with bottles of hard liquor, “Bible study” games where mistakes mean forced drinking, and forcing consumption until vomiting or unconsciousness.
• Physical Beatings and Paddling: Direct physical assaults, including punches, kicks, slaps, or beatings with paddles or other objects.
• Dangerous Physical “Tests”: Blindfolded tackles, forced fights, jumping from heights, or dangerous driving stunts, often while intoxicated.
• Sexualized Hazing: Forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault, or coercion into sexually degrading situations.
• Extreme Environmental Exposure: Forced outdoor exposure in severe weather, or confinement in freezing or overheated spaces.
• Kidnapping and Restraint: Abducting new members and transporting them to unfamiliar locations, often blindfolded and without proper clothing or resources.

DIGITAL HAZING: THE NEW FRONTIER OF ABUSE

In 2025, hazing extends beyond physical spaces into the digital realm, providing new avenues for psychological manipulation, control, and humiliation.

• 24/7 Digital Control: New members are added to mandatory group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord) and required to be constantly responsive. Failure to reply instantly can result in punishment.
• Geo-Tracking and Location Sharing: Forcing new members to share their live location via apps like Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps, eroding privacy and enabling constant surveillance.
• Social Media Policing and Humiliation: Controlling what new members post online, forcing them to share embarrassing content, or creating “meme” accounts to mock them. This can also include forcing them to “like” or generate specific content for the organization.
• Online Dares and Challenges: Pressuring new members to participate in dangerous or degrading online “challenges” that can go viral, further intensifying humiliation.
• Electronic Communication Scavenger Hunts: Sending new members on tasks via messaging apps that require them to interact with strangers, steal items, or perform embarrassing acts.

These digital tactics amplify the power imbalance, making new members feel constantly monitored and controlled, even when physically far from older members. It creates an inescapable environment that contributes to sleep deprivation, anxiety, and psychological distress.

WHERE HAZING ACTUALLY HAPPENS

Hazing is not confined to stereotypical “fraternities.” It permeates a wide range of organizations, both on and off campus:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek organizations.
• University Spirit Groups and Traditions Organizations: Groups like “Aggie yell leaders,” “Texas Cowboys,” or campus spirit organizations often have deeply entrenched traditions that can involve hazing.
• Corps of Cadets and ROTC Programs: Military-style organizations, with their emphasis on hierarchy and discipline, can sometimes develop hazing rituals.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to cheerleading and club sports, hazing can occur as a twisted form of team “bonding.”
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: The pressure to conform and prove loyalty can extend to these organizations as well.
• Academic, Service, and Cultural Clubs: Even organizations with noble missions can fall prey to hazing, especially if older members believe it builds character or unity.

Common threads among these diverse groups include social status, the desire to preserve “tradition,” and a powerful culture of secrecy. New members are often told “what happens here stays here,” pressured to delete evidence, and coached on what to say if questioned. This code of silence is a defining characteristic of hazing and one of the biggest obstacles to accountability and prevention.

LAW & LIABILITY FRAMEWORK (TEXAS + FEDERAL)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing is crucial for families in Angelina County. In Texas, hazing is not just a campus policy violation; it’s a crime, and it can form the basis for serious civil lawsuits aimed at accountability and compensation.

TEXAS HAZING LAW BASICS (EDUCATION CODE)

Texas law explicitly prohibits hazing, and these statutes are designed to protect students and hold perpetrators accountable. Under the Texas Education Code – Chapter 37, Subchapter F (Hazing), the definition is broad and comprehensive. Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed 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.

Key takeaways from the Texas definition:

• Location doesn’t matter: Hazing is prohibited whether it occurs on or off campus. This is critical for activities happening in off-campus housing, private venues, or remote retreats.
• Mental and physical health: Harm can be psychological, emotional, or physical. This includes extreme humiliation, sleep deprivation, verbal abuse, or forced servitude.
• Recklessness is enough: The perpetrator doesn’t need to specifically intend to cause harm. If they act recklessly (meaning they should have known their actions created a substantial risk of harm), it still qualifies.
• “Consent” is irrelevant: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed “consented” to the hazing activity. This acknowledges the inherent power imbalance and peer pressure that renders true consent impossible in a hazing context.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing in Texas:

Texas law establishes clear criminal consequences for hazing, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the severity of the harm.

• Class B Misdemeanor: The default penalty for hazing that does not result in serious injury. This can carry potential jail time and fines.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing act causes an injury that requires medical attention.
• State Jail Felony: If the hazing causes serious bodily injury (e.g., severe burns, broken bones, traumatic brain injury, rhabdomyolysis) or death. This is a particularly stringent aspect of Texas law, reflecting the state’s determination to treat severe hazing with utmost seriousness.

In addition to direct hazing acts, other related offenses can lead to criminal charges:

• Failure to Report: Any student, faculty member, or public school employee who knows of a hazing incident and fails to report it can be charged with a misdemeanor.
• Retaliation: Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor offense.
• Providing Alcohol to Minors: If minors are involved in drinking during hazing, those who furnish the alcohol can face additional charges.

Organizational Liability:
Texas law extends criminal liability not just to individuals but potentially to the organizations themselves. Under § 37.153, organizations can be criminally prosecuted for hazing if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing; or
• An officer or member acting in their official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it.
  Penalties for organizations can include fines of up to $10,000 per violation, and universities may revoke recognition and ban the organization from campus. This provision underscores that hazing is a systemic issue, not just the fault of a few “bad apples.”

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting:
To encourage reporting, Texas law provides some protection under § 37.154. A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university authorities or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise arise from the report. This is a crucial, though often underutilized, aspect of the law designed to overcome the pervasive code of silence.

CRIMINAL VS CIVIL CASES

It’s important for Angelina County families to understand the distinction between criminal and civil legal actions, as both can play a role in hazing cases.

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (prosecutors) through local District Attorneys or county attorneys. The goal is to punish criminal behavior, with penalties including fines, probation, or incarceration. Criminal hazing charges often run parallel with other offenses like assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, or, in tragic circumstances, manslaughter or negligent homicide. A key point for victims is that a criminal conviction is not necessary to pursue a civil case.
• Civil Cases: These are initiated by the victims or their surviving family members. The primary goal is to obtain monetary compensation for the harm suffered and to hold responsible parties (individuals, organizations, universities) accountable. Civil claims often involve allegations of negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, or intentional infliction of emotional distress. A successful civil case can help families cover medical expenses, lost wages, and devastating non-economic damages like pain, suffering, and emotional trauma.

FEDERAL OVERLAY: STOP CAMPUS HAZING ACT, TITLE IX, CLERY

While Texas law provides a strong foundation, federal laws add additional layers of protection and accountability for universities.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This new federal law is a game-changer. It requires colleges and universities that receive federal funding to publicly report hazing incidents in a manner similar to how they report other campus crimes under the Clery Act. This will significantly increase transparency and provide families in Angelina County with better information about hazing at their favored universities. It also mandates stronger hazing prevention measures and establishes hazing data collection. This will be phased in by around 2026.
• Title IX: This civil rights law prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. When hazing involves sexual assault, sexual harassment, or gender-based violence (e.g., forced nudity, sexualized rituals, gender-specific humiliation), Title IX obligations are triggered. Universities failing to adequately respond to such incidents can face severe penalties, including loss of federal funding.
• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. While hazing is not a standalone “Clery crime,” hazing incidents often involve crimes that are reportable under Clery, such as sexual assault, aggravated assault, or liquor law violations. This statute contributes to campus transparency and safety.

WHO CAN BE LIABLE IN A CIVIL HAZING LAWSUIT

In a civil hazing lawsuit, a broad range of individuals and entities can be named as defendants, reflecting the systemic nature of hazing.

• Individual Students: Those directly involved in perpetrating the hazing, including chapter officers (e.g., “pledgemasters,” presidents, risk managers), and the members who actively participated. Their personal actions can lead to liability for assault, battery, negligence, or engaging in criminal hazing.
• Local Chapter: The particular fraternity, sorority, club, or team chapter—often an unincorporated association or a legally recognized entity. These chapters can be held liable for their collective actions, failure to supervise, or direct involvement in hazing activities.
• National Organization: The national or international fraternity or sorority headquarters. Liability can stem from a failure to adequately supervise local chapters, a failure to enforce anti-hazing policies, previous knowledge of hazing within their chapters nationally (creating “foreseeability”), or allowing risky “traditions” to persist.
• University or Governing Board: The college or university itself, its board of regents, or specific university officials (e.g., Dean of Students, student life administrators). Potential liability can arise from:
  • Negligent Supervision: Failing to adequately oversee student organizations.
  • Deliberate Indifference: Knowing about a pattern of hazing and failing to take appropriate action.
  • Violation of Policies: Failing to enforce their own anti-hazing rules.
  • Sovereign Immunity (public universities): Public institutions like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and UT Austin may assert sovereign immunity, which protects governmental entities from lawsuits. However, exceptions exist, particularly in cases of gross negligence, constitutional violations, or for specific claims under federal law like Title IX, or when university employees are sued in their individual capacity for gross negligence.
• Third Parties: Other entities that may bear responsibility include:
  • Property Owners/Landlords: Owners of off-campus houses or event venues where hazing occurred, especially if they knew or should have known about dangerous activities.
  • Alcohol Providers: Bars, liquor stores, or individuals who illegally furnish alcohol contributing to hazing incidents.
  • Security Providers: Companies hired to manage security at events where hazing occurred but failed to intervene.

Every hazing case is fact-specific, and the potential defendants vary depending on the details of the incident and the applicable laws. An experienced hazing attorney understands how to identify all liable parties and pursue every avenue for accountability and compensation.

NATIONAL HAZING CASE PATTERNS (ANCHOR STORIES)

The tragedies of hazing are not isolated incidents; they reveal disturbing patterns repeated across campuses and organizations nationwide. These anchor stories highlight the devastating consequences of hazing and often serve as the catalysts for legal reform, multi-million dollar verdicts, and shifts in how universities and national organizations are held accountable. For families in Angelina County, understanding these precedents is crucial, as they set the stage for cases at Texas universities.

ALCOHOL POISONING & DEATH PATTERN

The single most common and deadly form of hazing involves the forced or coerced consumption of alcohol. These cases often share a tragic sequence: excessive drinking, delayed medical attention, and a pervasive culture of silence and cover-up.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (February 2017)
  The Penn State Beta Theta Pi pledge suffered fatal head injuries after falling repeatedly during a “bid acceptance” initiation night involving extreme alcohol consumption. Horrifying security camera footage captured fraternity members delaying calling for help for nearly 12 hours as Piazza lay dying. Legal actions: Eighteen fraternity members faced over 1,000 criminal counts, and civil litigation against the fraternity and individuals resulted in confidential settlements. Impact: The tragedy led to Pennsylvania enacting the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law, one of the toughest in the nation, and marked one of the largest hazing prosecutions in US history. This case is a stark reminder to Angelina County families of the severe risks that accompany any alcohol-centric initiation. For more information, watch Attorney911’s video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (November 2017)
  Pi Kappa Phi pledge Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were reportedly given handles of hard liquor and pressured to consume them rapidly. Legal actions: Multiple fraternity members were prosecuted, mostly pleading guilty to misdemeanor hazing. Civil wrongful death lawsuits were settled under confidential terms. Impact: FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life activities in the wake of the death, triggering a statewide anti-hazing movement in Florida. Coffey’s death underscores the dangers of so-called “tradition” drinking events that prioritize ritual over safety.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (September 2017)
  Max Gruver, an LSU Phi Delta Theta pledge, died from alcohol toxicity with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game. He was forced to drink if he answered questions incorrectly. Legal actions: Several members were charged, with one convicted of negligent homicide. The family settled civil lawsuits for an undisclosed amount. Impact: Louisiana passed the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute, leading to stronger criminal penalties. This case demonstrates that “games” involving alcohol, even if seemingly innocuous, can have fatal consequences.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (March 2021)
  Pi Kappa Alpha pledge Stone Foltz died of alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” night initiation ritual. Legal actions: Multiple fraternity members were convicted of hazing-related crimes. A landmark civil settlement of nearly $3 million was reached with Bowling Green State University, and a $7 million settlement was reached with Pi Kappa Alpha national, bringing the total to nearly $10 million in accountability for Stone’s death. The former chapter president was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million. Impact: Ohio enacted “Collin’s Law: The Anti-Hazing Act,” strengthening felony hazing provisions. This case highlights substantial civil damages and the personal liability officers can face. For more information, read Attorney911’s wrongful death page: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/

PHYSICAL & RITUALIZED HAZING PATTERN

Hazing is not always tied to alcohol. Brutal physical and ritualized abuse can be equally, if not more, dangerous, leading to severe injuries and deaths.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (December 2013)
  During a fraternity “retreat” in the Pocono Mountains, Michael Deng, a Pi Delta Psi pledge, was blindfolded, forced to wear a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled in a “glass ceiling” ritual. He sustained a fatal traumatic brain injury; members delayed calling 911 for an hour. Legal actions: Multiple individuals were convicted, and, notably, the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, fined over $110,000, and banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. Impact: This landmark case established that national organizations can be held criminally liable for the actions of their chapters, even if the hazing occurs “off-campus.”

ATHLETIC PROGRAM HAZING & ABUSE

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it is a pervasive issue in athletic programs, spirit organizations, and other student groups, often under the guise of “team bonding” or “tradition.”

• Robert Champion – Florida A&M University Marching Band (2011)
  Robert Champion, a Florida A&M drum major, died after a brutal hazing ritual known as “Crossing Bus C,” which involved severe physical beatings by fellow band members. Legal actions: Multiple band members were convicted of hazing-related offenses. Florida A&M University was found liable and reached a $1 million settlement with Champion’s family. Impact: This case highlighted that hazing extends beyond Greek life and can occur in any student organization; it also prompted significant anti-hazing policy reforms across the FAMU system.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
  Former Northwestern football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years, including forced naked “dry-humping” drills and other degrading acts. Legal actions: Multiple players filed lawsuits against the university and coaching staff. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired and later settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit confidentially. Impact: This scandal underscored that hazing can occur in high-profile athletic programs, raising serious questions about institutional oversight and the responsibility of coaches and administrators.

WHAT THESE CASES MEAN FOR TEXAS FAMILIES

These national tragedies reveal crucial common threads in hazing incidents: forced consumption (alcohol or otherwise), humiliation and physical abuse, deliberate delays in seeking medical care, and concerted efforts to cover up the truth. For Angelina County families, these patterns are critical because:

• Foreseeability: These repeated incidents establish that universities and national organizations are on notice about the devastating risks of hazing. When similar incidents occur in Texas, defense attorneys can no longer claim it was an “unforeseeable accident.”
• Accountability: The multi-million-dollar settlements and criminal convictions in these cases demonstrate that victims and their families can achieve significant accountability, forcing institutions to change and compensating for profound suffering.
• Legal Precedent: These cases shape the legal landscape, influencing how judges and juries view hazing, the standard of care expected of organizations, and the scope of liability. Whether your child attends the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, these national lessons are directly applicable to any hazing claim in Texas.

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

For Angelina County families, understanding the unique contexts and histories of hazing at prominent Texas universities is essential. While the Angelina County area may not have a large four-year university within its borders, many families from Lufkin, Huntington, Diboll, and other communities send their children to these schools, making their hazing cultures highly relevant. We are here to help Angelina County families navigate these specific campus environments.

UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant urban campus and a pillar of higher education in Texas, serves a diverse student body, including many from communities like Angelina County. With a mix of commuter and residential students, UH fosters an active Greek life and a wide range of student organizations, from cultural groups to sports clubs.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston is a sprawling urban campus in the heart of Houston, serving over 47,000 students. Its diverse student body includes many from across Texas, making it a common destination for Angelina County graduates. UH’s Greek life is active and encompasses Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic, and National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations, alongside numerous clubs and athletic programs.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, prohibiting any act, on or off campus, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. The policy explicitly forbids forced consumption of alcohol or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, branding, and any acts that cause mental distress. UH provides multiple avenues for reporting hazing through the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). An online reporting form is also available.

5.1.3 Example Incident & Response

The University of Houston stands at the center of our firm’s most significant hazing case. In late 2025, Attorney911 filed a $10 million lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston, its Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, its housing corporation, and 13 individuals. Bermudez, a transfer student and fall 2025 pledge, suffered acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis after alleged severe hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. Specific conduct included:

• Being forced to carry a pledge fanny pack containing degrading items.
• Hose spraying “similar to waterboarding” and threats of actual waterboarding.
• Forced strenuous exercises at Yellowstone Boulevard Park, including over 100 push-ups and 500 squats on November 3, rendering him unable to stand.
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting.
• Developing brown urine, a symptom of rhabdomyolysis, leading to a four-day hospitalization.
  UH suspended the chapter on November 6, 2025, and the chapter surrendered its charter on November 14, 2025. This case highlights the severity of modern hazing tactics, the potential for catastrophic medical outcomes, and Attorney911’s commitment to holding all liable parties accountable. For a comprehensive overview, see the Click2Houston report at https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/ and ABC13’s coverage at https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Angelina County families, a hazing case originating at UH would typically be filed in Harris County, Texas. This involves navigating the Harris County court system, with potential criminal charges filed by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office and civil lawsuits seeking damages. Jurisdiction could extend to federal court if federal claims (e.g., Title IX) are involved due to the national scope of the fraternity. Potential defendants include the individual students, the local Pi Kappa Phi chapter, the national Pi Kappa Phi organization, the university, its Board of Regents, and even the chapter’s housing corporation.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

Students from Angelina County attending UH and their families should:

• Familiarize themselves with UH’s hazing policy: Understand what’s prohibited and the available reporting channels.
• Prioritize medical care: If hazing results in injury or illness, seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers what occurred.
• Document everything: Screenshot all digital communications, photograph injuries, and keep meticulous notes of incidents. Attorney911’s video on using your cellphone to document a legal case (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides valuable guidance.
• Contact a Houston-based hazing attorney: An attorney experienced in Harris County courts can advise on legal options, help preserve critical evidence, and navigate the university’s investigative processes.

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

Texas A&M University, a beloved institution for many Angelina County families, is known for its deep-seated traditions, particularly its Corps of Cadets, and a large, active Greek system in College Station, approximately 90 miles northwest of Lufkin.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M, located in College Station, is a public mega-university with a distinctive culture centered around the “Aggie Spirit,” rigorous academics, and a strong emphasis on tradition. Its Greek life is one of the largest in the state, and the Corps of Cadets stands as its oldest and most revered student organization. Graduates from Angelina County frequently attend Texas A&M.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M prohibits hazing across all student organizations, including the Corps of Cadets. Their policy closely aligns with Texas state law, strictly forbidding any act that causes mental or physical harm for initiation or membership. Reporting can be made to the Dean of Students Office, the Aggie Honor System Office, or the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD). The university website provides clear guidance and an anonymous reporting option.

5.2.3 Example Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced multiple hazing allegations, notably within both its Greek system and the Corps of Cadets:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021) Chemical Burns: Two pledges alleged they were subjected to a grueling hazing ritual where an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, spit, and other substances were poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million, and the chapter was suspended. This incident is a grave reminder that hazing can involve dangerous substances, not just physical blows.
• Corps of Cadets Hazing Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing rituals, including being forced into simulated sexual acts and being bound in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, emphasizing the psychological and physical torment involved in such acts.
  Texas A&M has a history of suspending chapters and disciplining individuals involved in hazing, but these incidents underscore the persistent challenge of enforcing anti-hazing policies within deeply traditional environments.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Angelina County families, a hazing case at Texas A&M would typically be pursued in Brazos County. Given the distance from Angelina County, understanding the College Station legal environment is key. Cases can involve the Texas A&M UPD or the College Station Police Department. Civil litigation would navigate the Brazos County court system, potentially targeting individual perpetrators, the local chapter, the national organization (e.g., Sigma Alpha Epsilon national or the national Corps organization), and the university itself, particularly regarding its oversight of student organizations and the Corps.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Students from Angelina County attending Texas A&M should:

• Question “Tradition”: Be skeptical of any activity presented as “tradition” that involves secrecy, discomfort, or danger. Not all traditions are benign, and hazing often hides behind this excuse.
• Use Anonymous Reporting: If uncomfortable reporting directly, utilize Texas A&M’s anonymous reporting channels.
• Document Corps Issues: Hazing in the Corps of Cadets might be harder to report due to military-like hierarchy. Documenting incidents is crucial, and Angelina County families should seek legal counsel familiar with hazing within military-style organizations.

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is a flagship institution for many Angelina County graduates, known for its vibrant campus, large Greek life, and spirited traditions. UT has taken steps to increase transparency regarding hazing incidents.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin, located in the state’s capital, is a large public university with a rich history, competitive academics, and a dynamic Greek life. Its student body, including many from Angelina County, is highly engaged in numerous student organizations, including spirit groups like the Texas Cowboys.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UT Austin’s hazing policy explicitly prohibits any activity that could be construed as hazing, consistent with Texas law. The university provides multiple avenues for reporting, including a dedicated online reporting form, the Dean of Students office, and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD). Crucially, UT maintains a publicly accessible Hazing Violations page on its website, listing sanctioned organizations, the nature of their violations, and penalties imposed.

5.3.3 Example Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations page is a critical resource, revealing ongoing issues despite clear policies:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): The chapter was sanctioned for directing new members to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, activities deemed hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Texas Wranglers (Spirit Organization): This well-known spirit organization has periodically faced sanctions for hazing, illustrating that even non-Greek, tradition-heavy groups are not immune. Violations often include forced workouts, sleep deprivation, and alcohol-related hazing.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2006): Pledge Tyler Cross died in a fall while under the influence of alcohol after a party. Police suspected hazing was a factor. This incident, while older, is part of a national pattern that informs hazing litigation.
  UT’s transparency in reporting these incidents on its public database provides compelling evidence of repeated violations, which is valuable in establishing knowledge and foreseeability in civil lawsuits.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases at UT Austin would be handled in Travis County, with potential criminal investigations by UTPD or the Austin Police Department. Civil lawsuits for Angelina County families would be filed in Travis County district courts. The availability of UT’s public hazing database allows attorneys to clearly demonstrate patterns of problematic behavior, knowledge on the part of the university, and potential re-offending by specific organizations, making a strong case for accountability against individuals, chapters, nationals, and potentially the university.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

Students from Angelina County attending UT Austin and their families should:

• Review the UT Hazing Violations Page: Regularly check the university’s public database for any disciplinary actions against organizations your student is considering joining.
• Understand Non-Greek Hazing Risks: Be aware that hazing extends beyond fraternities and sororities, particularly in UT’s unique spirit organizations.
• Document and Report: If hazing occurs, preserve evidence meticulously and report it through the university’s official channels. An attorney can then use this documented history to build a stronger case.

SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a private institution located in Dallas, draws a significant number of students from affluent communities across Texas, including Angelina County. It is known for its strong Greek life and a relatively high social profile.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is a private, selective university in Dallas with a prominent and active Greek life. Its campus culture often involves high-profile social events and a strong alumni network. Many students from Angelina County choose SMU for its academic rigor and networking opportunities.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU strictly prohibits hazing, articulating in its Code of Conduct that all forms are unacceptable. As a private institution, SMU maintains internal disciplinary processes, and reports can be made through the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, SMU Police Department (SMU PD), or via anonymous reporting systems like “Real Response.”

5.4.3 Example Incidents & Responses

SMU has also faced its share of hazing controversies, demonstrating that private institutions are not immune:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): The Kappa Alpha Order chapter at SMU was suspended and subjected to recruitment restrictions for several years after allegations of hazing surfaced. Reports included new members being paddled, forced to consume excessive alcohol, and deprived of sleep. This incident highlights the recurrence of traditional physical hazing methods.
• Various Fraternities (Ongoing): While SMU’s public reporting may not be as extensive as public universities, incidents involving alcohol violations, forced activities, and physical hazing regularly lead to suspension or probation for various Greek organizations.
  The private nature of SMU means that such incidents may not be as publicly transparent as at state universities, but internal records and investigations still exist and can be obtained through legal discovery.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Angelina County families, a hazing case at SMU would typically be filed in Dallas County. The Dallas Police Department (DPD) would handle criminal investigations, while civil lawsuits would proceed in Dallas County district courts. Due to SMU’s private status, sovereign immunity would not apply, potentially simplifying legal proceedings against the university, though the university would still mount a vigorous defense. Potential defendants would include individuals, the chapter, the national organization (e.g., Kappa Alpha Order national), and SMU itself.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

Students from Angelina County attending SMU and their families should:

• Understand Private University Dynamics: Be aware that private universities might have different levels of transparency regarding hazing incidents, often resolving issues internally without public disclosure unless forced by a lawsuit.
• Utilize Anonymous Reporting Systems: For students who fear retaliation, systems like “Real Response” are designed to protect their identity while allowing them to report.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Given the resources of a private university, having an experienced attorney is crucial to ensure thorough investigation and advocacy in pursuing claims.

BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

Baylor University, a private Baptist university in Waco, holds a unique position in Texas higher education. Its deeply rooted traditions and religious affiliation shape its campus culture, drawing students from Angelina County and across the state. Baylor has a history of intense scrutiny regarding student welfare, particularly in the context of its widely publicized football and Title IX scandals.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor, located in Waco, is the largest Baptist university in the world, with strong Christian values that heavily influence its campus policies. While it has a Greek system, many students participate in other faith-based or service-oriented organizations. Baylor’s recent history, marked by a major campus-wide sexual assault scandal involving its football program, has placed its institutional policies and oversight under an intense spotlight.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor has a “zero-tolerance” policy regarding hazing, which aligns with its commitment to a safe and respectful campus environment grounded in its Christian mission. Reporting channels include the Baylor Police Department (BUPD), the Dean of Students office, and a confidential online reporting form. The university emphasizes the spiritual and physical well-being of its students in all campus activities.

5.5.3 Example Incidents & Responses

Baylor’s unique cultural and historical context frames any hazing incidents that occur there:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 Baylor baseball players were suspended following a hazing investigation. Although specific details of the hazing were not widely publicized, the suspensions were staggered over the early season, indicating serious violations of university policy. This demonstrated that illegal and unsafe practices persist even in NCAA sports programs at religiously affiliated institutions.
• Football/Title IX Context: While not directly hazing, Baylor’s high-profile sexual assault scandal revealed systemic failures in addressing student misconduct and protecting victims. This history influences how hazing allegations are handled and the level of scrutiny the university faces regarding institutional accountability.
  Baylor’s response to hazing reflects its broader institutional challenges and ongoing efforts to rebuild trust and ensure student safety.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Angelina County families, a hazing incident at Baylor would typically involve the Waco Police Department for criminal matters and the McLennan County court system for civil suits. Given Baylor’s private status, cases against the university would not face sovereign immunity defenses. However, Baylor is a well-resourced institution with experienced legal teams, making it critical to have equally formidable representation. Civil claims would target individuals, student organizations, and the university, potentially examining the effectiveness of its “zero-tolerance” policies in practice.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

Students from Angelina County attending Baylor and their families should:

• Understand Baylor’s Context: Be aware of Baylor’s recent history regarding institutional accountability and its direct impact on how student safety issues, including hazing, are perceived and handled.
• Prioritize Reporting: Use Baylor’s reporting mechanisms, but be prepared for a rigorous internal process. Document every step you take and every response you receive.
• Seek Outside Legal Counsel: Given Baylor’s strong legal representation and its history with major student misconduct cases, engaging an independent attorney ensures your child’s rights and best interests are paramount.

FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES: CAMPUS-SPECIFIC + NATIONAL HISTORIES

For families in Angelina County, understanding the context of Greek letter organizations at Texas universities means recognizing that local chapters are often extensions of national organizations. These national bodies, while offering benefits, also carry histories—some of which are tragically marked by hazing incidents across the country.

WHY NATIONAL HISTORIES MATTER

Many fraternities and sororities present at institutions like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are part of vast national networks. These national headquarters typically:

• Impose strict anti-hazing policies: Often detailed manuals and educational programs exist precisely because they have faced deaths and catastrophic injuries in the past.
• Track common hazing patterns: They are (or should be) aware of recurring issues, such as forced drinking, traditional paddling ceremonies, and degrading rituals that crop up in different chapters.

This national awareness is crucial in litigation because it establishes foreseeability. When a Texas chapter perpetrates an act of hazing—whether it’s an alcohol-related initiation or a physically abusive ritual—that mirrors incidents seen elsewhere, the national organization can be held to a higher standard. They can’t credibly claim ignorance if similar patterns have already led to lawsuits, suspensions, or deaths at other campuses. This pattern of knowledge can significantly strengthen arguments for negligence, gross negligence, and even punitive damages against national entities.

ORGANIZATION MAPPING: HAZING HISTORIES OF PROMINENT GREEK ORGANIZATIONS

Below are some of the national Greek organizations with a presence at Texas universities that have faced significant hazing issues across the country and, in some cases, in Texas as well. This is not an exhaustive list, nor does it imply that every chapter of these organizations engages in hazing. However, their national histories illustrate the patterns of risk that an experienced hazing attorney understands.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike): Nationally, Pike has been involved in several high-profile hazing deaths.

  • Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University, 2021): A pledge died from alcohol poisoning after forced drinking, leading to multiple criminal convictions and a $7 million settlement from the national fraternity.
  • David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois University, 2012): Died from alcohol poisoning during a pledge event, resulting in a $14 million settlement to his family.
  • Relevance to Texas: Chapters at UT Austin and Texas Tech University have faced sanctions for hazing, with incidents including forced calisthenics and alcohol violations.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): Often labeled “America’s deadliest fraternity” by some media, SAE has a tragic history of hazing deaths and severe injuries. In 2014, the national organization announced it was eliminating its traditional pledge process due to repeated incidents, though hazing has continued.

  • Traumatic Brain Injury Case (University of Alabama, 2023): A pledge allegedly suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual, leading to an ongoing lawsuit.
  • Chemical Burns Case (Texas A&M University, 2021): Pledges alleged being covered in industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns. The fraternity chapter was suspended, and a lawsuit was filed.
  • Noah Domingo (UC Irvine, 2019): A pledge died of alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night,” which led to the chapter’s suspension.
  • Relevance to Texas: Chapters at UT Austin (where a pledge died in 2006) and Texas A&M have faced serious hazing allegations, linking local conduct to national patterns of high-risk behavior and the consequences thereof.

• Phi Delta Theta (Phi Delt): This fraternity has also been linked to fatal hazing incidents.

  • Maxwell “Max” Gruver (Louisiana State University, 2017): A pledge died from extreme alcohol toxicity during a “Bible study” drinking game, leading to criminal convictions and inspiring the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana.
  • Relevance to Texas: Phi Delta Theta maintains chapters at several Texas universities, and a Texas A&M chapter member died in 2018 under hazing-related circumstances.

• Pi Kappa Phi (Pi Kapp): This national fraternity has faced scrutiny for hazing deaths.

  • Andrew Coffey (Florida State University, 2017): Died of acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night,” resulting in criminal charges against members.
  • Relevance to Texas: Most notably, the Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston / Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit (2025) alleges severe physical hazing, resulting in acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis, leading to a $10 million lawsuit by Attorney911. This Houston-based case is a stark example of the dire consequences of hazing and the firm’s direct involvement in holding Pi Kappa Phi accountable.

• Kappa Alpha Order (KA): This historically Southern fraternity has also faced hazing allegations.

  • Local Kappa Alpha Order chapters across the country, including at SMU (2017), have faced suspensions for hazing involving practices like paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation. These incidents demonstrate that even fraternities with deep historical roots struggle to eradicate dangerous “traditional” hazing.

TIE BACK TO LEGAL STRATEGY

For Angelina County families, understanding these national and campus-specific hazing histories is not just about awareness; it’s about empowerment. When building a hazing case in civil court, an experienced attorney connects these dots.

• Pattern of Conduct: If a specific national organization or even a particular university has a documented history of hazing incidents—especially those involving similar tactics or resulting in similar harms—it directly informs the concept of “foreseeability” in a lawsuit. The defense cannot reasonably claim surprise when another student is harmed by a hazing practice that has occurred repeatedly within their system.
• Knowledge and Deliberate Indifference: These histories can prove that national organizations and universities had prior knowledge of dangerous patterns. A failure to act decisively despite this knowledge can demonstrate “deliberate indifference”—a key legal standard for holding institutions liable.
• Insurance Coverage: Disputes with insurance companies are common in hazing cases, as insurers may try to deny coverage by claiming “intentional acts” are excluded. However, a demonstrated pattern of negligence or a failure to enforce policies by the national or university can shift the blame toward their “negligent supervision,” which is typically covered by insurance. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is particularly crucial here, as she intimately understands their strategies for denying claims and how to counter them effectively.
• Punitive Damages: In egregious cases, juries or courts may award punitive damages not just to compensate victims but to punish the defendants for reckless or malicious conduct and deter future similar acts. A long history of unaddressed hazing can contribute to a finding that punitive damages are warranted.

By meticulously researching these organizational histories and connecting them to local incidents, Attorney911 constructs powerful legal arguments that aim to secure full accountability and fair compensation for victims of hazing.

BUILDING A CASE: EVIDENCE, DAMAGES, STRATEGY

Building a compelling hazing case requires a deep understanding of the law, tenacious investigation, and the ability to leverage modern evidence collection techniques. For families in Angelina County, gathering the right evidence as soon as possible is paramount, as everything involved—from digital messages to potential witnesses—can disappear quickly.

EVIDENCE

The strength of a hazing case often hinges on comprehensive and meticulously preserved evidence. Since hazing thrives in secrecy, uncovering the truth demands a proactive approach.

• Digital Communications: In 2025, group chats and direct messages are the “smoking gun” in many hazing cases. This includes messages from:

  • GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage/SMS: These are frequently used for coordinated instructions, planning, and discussions about hazing events. Screenshots are crucial, showing sender, timestamp, and full context.
  • Discord, Slack: Used in some organizations for communication, particularly academic or gaming-focused groups where hazing may still occur.
  • Social Media (Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook/Messenger, X/Twitter): Posts, stories, and private messages can reveal active hazing, humiliation, or conversations between members. Remember to screenshot disappearing content immediately.
    Digital forensics experts can often recover deleted messages, but original, unedited screenshots are invaluable.

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is incredibly powerful.

  • Images captured at the event: Members often record hazing, either for their own amusement or to document new member compliance. If found before deletion, these are direct proof.
  • Injuries: Multiple clear photos of any physical injuries, taken from various angles with a ruler or common object for scale, immediately after the incident and throughout the healing process.
  • Locations & Objects: Photos of the chapter house, off-campus venue, or any objects used in the hazing (e.g., paddles, excessive alcohol bottles, degrading costumes).

• Internal Organization Documents: These shed light on the official and unofficial rules.

  • Pledge manuals/guides: Often contain veiled references to “traditions” or expectations.
  • Chapter bylaws/constitutions: May outline member duties, events, or processes.
  • Communications: Emails or texts between chapter officers/members discussing “new member education,” planning events, or giving instructions.
  • National organization manuals/policies: These are critical to show what the national body says it prohibits versus what it enforces.

• University Records: These chronicle the institution’s awareness and response history.

  • Prior disciplinary records: Records of hazing violations, probation, or suspensions for the same chapter or individuals. Texas public universities (like UT Austin) often publish these details online. Private universities’ records require discovery.
  • Campus Police/Student Conduct reports: Official documentation of complaints or incidents.
  • Clery Act reports: Annual crime statistics can highlight broader patterns of alcohol violations or assaults that could be tied to hazing.
  • Emails/memos: Internal university communications regarding the organization or student conduct.

• Medical and Psychological Records: Crucial for documenting harm.

  • Emergency Room/Hospital records: Detail injuries, treatments, and initial reports (e.g., blood alcohol content, toxicology, rhabdomyolysis markers). Crucially, the victim should state they were hazed so it’s documented.
  • Therapy/Psychiatric notes: Documenting the psychological impact, such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, or suicidal ideation.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are essential for corroborating events.

  • Other pledges/new members: Fellow victims who can confirm the hazing.
  • Current or former members: Individuals who experienced or observed the hazing, including those who may have de-pledged.
  • Bystanders: Anyone who saw unusual activity, heard alarming sounds, or observed the victim’s condition.
  • University staff: Resident advisors, coaches, or faculty who had concerns or received reports.

DAMAGES

In a civil hazing lawsuit, damages aim to compensate the victim for all losses and suffering caused by the hazing. The categories of damages include economic losses (quantifiable financial harms) and non-economic losses (subjective, but legally recognizable harms).

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs associated with physical and psychological injuries.
  • Past Medical Expenses: Emergency room visits, ambulance transport, hospital stays (ICU, surgery), medications, rehabilitation (physical, occupational, speech therapy), and initial psychological counseling.
  • Future Medical Expenses: For permanent injuries, this can include long-term therapy, ongoing specialist care, future surgeries, and, in severe cases like traumatic brain injury, a lifetime of specialized care plans.
• Lost Income & Educational Impact: Hazing can derail a student’s academic and career trajectory.
  • Lost Wages: If the victim (or a parent caring for them) had to miss work due to injuries.
  • Lost Educational Opportunities: Costs for missed semesters, lost scholarships, and potential delays in graduation, which can impact career entry.
  • Diminished Future Earning Capacity: If injuries (physical disabilities, severe PTSD) permanently affect the victim’s ability to work or earn income over their lifetime.
• Non-Economic Damages: These address the intangible but profound human suffering.
  • Physical Pain and Suffering: From injuries, recovery, and any chronic pain.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: Including diagnosed conditions like PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, humiliation, shame, loss of dignity, and the profound trauma of the experience.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: The inability to participate in valued activities, withdrawal from social life, and the loss of the normal college experience.
• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): In tragic cases of death, the surviving family members can pursue damages including:
  • Funeral and Burial Costs.
  • Loss of Financial Support: Compensation for any financial contributions the deceased would have made to their family.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Society: For parents, siblings, or spouses/partners who have lost a loved one.
  • Grief and Emotional Suffering: For the family members dealing with the profound loss. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases.
• Punitive Damages: In instances of particularly egregious, reckless, or malicious conduct, courts may award punitive damages. These are not meant to compensate the victim but to punish the defendants and deter future misconduct. A documented history of unaddressed hazing can be a strong factor in seeking punitive damages.

ROLE OF DIFFERENT DEFENDANTS AND INSURANCE COVERAGE

In hazing litigation, understanding the complex interplay of defendants and their insurance policies is critical. National fraternities, universities, and sometimes even individuals are often covered by substantial insurance policies designed to protect them from liability. However, insurers frequently attempt to deny coverage by arguing that hazing, especially intentional acts, falls under policy exclusions.

An experienced hazing attorney:

• Identifies all potential insurance policies: This includes policies held by national organizations, local chapters, university umbrella policies, and even homeowners’ insurance policies of individual members.
• Navigates complex coverage disputes: While insurers may claim exclusions for “intentional acts,” attorneys argue that the negligent supervision by the university or national organization, or their failure to enforce policies, is what truly led to the injury—and that negligence is covered. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is invaluable here, providing an insider’s perspective on how these powerful entities and their insurers strategize and how to effectively counteract them.
• Maximizes recovery: By strategically targeting all liable parties and their insurance policies, attorneys work to secure the maximum possible compensation for the victim.

Effectively challenging sophisticated defendants and their insurers requires a firm that not only understands the law but also how these institutions operate and protect themselves. Attorney911 possesses this unique insight.

PRACTICAL GUIDES & FAQS

For families in Angelina County facing the specter of hazing, actionable advice is paramount. Knowing what to watch for, how to respond, and what common pitfalls to avoid can make a profound difference in protecting your child and pursuing justice.

FOR PARENTS

Parents are often the first to notice changes in their child, but may struggle to identify hazing or how to address it.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be alert for a combination of these indicators:
  • Physical Changes: Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries; extreme fatigue, weight loss or gain; constant illness; neglect of personal hygiene.
  • Behavioral/Emotional Shifts: Secretive behavior about organization activities (e.g., “I can’t talk about it”); sudden mood swings, anxiety, depression, irritability; withdrawal from non-organization friends or family; defensiveness when asked about the group; constantly checking phone for texts.
  • Academic Decline: Falling grades, missing classes, unusual difficulty concentrating due to sleep deprivation or mandated activities.
  • Financial Anomalies: Requests for unexplained money, large unbudgeted expenses related to the organization that seem suspicious.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation with empathy, not accusation.
  • Start with open-ended questions: “How are things really going with [organization name]?” “Are you enjoying it as much as you thought?”
  • Reassure them that their safety and well-being are your top priority, not “getting them in trouble” or “shutting down the group.” Offer an unconditional exit strategy.
  • Ask direct but caring questions: “Are they asking you to do anything that makes you uncomfortable or that you don’t want to do?” “Are you ever asked to keep secrets from me or the university?”
• If Your Child is Hurt: Prioritize immediate medical care. Document everything; photograph physical injuries, noting dates and times. Preserve any texts or messages your child shows you.
• Dealing with the University: Document all communications with university officials. Ask about the organization’s prior incident history. Remember that university internal investigations are not the same as legal action.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has sustained significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing the situation, contact an attorney immediately.

FOR STUDENTS / PLEDGES

If you are a student from Angelina County involved in a potentially hazing situation, your health and safety are paramount.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? If activities involve secrecy, humiliation, discomfort, forced consumption, or endangers your mental or physical health, it is hazing—regardless of what it’s called. If you’d be embarrassed for staff, faculty, or your parents to witness it, it’s hazing.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: Despite pressure, you cannot truly consent to hazing. The law recognizes the power dynamics, fear of exclusion, and social pressure that make agreement coerced, not voluntary.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the right to leave any organization at any time. If you feel unsafe, call a trusted friend, family member, or 911. Report the hazing through official university channels (Dean of Students, Title IX Coordinator, Campus Police) or anonymously via the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE). Document any threats or retaliation you receive.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many universities and state laws (including Texas) have policies that grant amnesty to students who report hazing or seek medical help for an emergency (e.g., alcohol poisoning), even if they were involved in illegal activities. Prioritize safety. You will not get in trouble for calling for help.

FOR FORMER MEMBERS / WITNESSES

If you witnessed hazing, or participated in it in the past and now regret it, your testimony can be critical in preventing future tragedies and holding accountable those responsible.

• Acknowledge that speaking out can be difficult due to fear of retaliation or social ostracization. However, your perspective can provide crucial evidence that institutions and victims need.
• Your testimony, particularly digital evidence like old group chats or photos, can save lives by confirming patterns of behavior.
• An attorney can help you navigate your role as a witness, advising on your rights and potential protections while ensuring you understand any personal legal exposure. Collaborating with legal counsel can alleviate fears of self-incrimination while still contributing to justice.

CRITICAL MISTAKES THAT CAN DESTROY YOUR CASE

Navigating a hazing incident is fraught with emotional and legal complexities. Unfortunately, well-meaning actions or lack of information can inadvertently jeopardize a potential legal claim. Angelina County families must be aware of these common pitfalls:

1. Letting Your Child Delete or “Clean Up” Evidence:

   • What families think: “We need to protect my child from further trouble.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Deleting text messages, group chats, or social media posts is like destroying crucial crime scene evidence. It creates suspicion, is nearly impossible to explain to a jury, and severely damages the credibility of a claim. It removes the direct proof needed to establish what happened, who was involved, and the group’s intent.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything, even embarrassing or seemingly minor content. Take screenshots with timestamps, save original messages, and back them up securely. An attorney can help manage this evidence strategically.

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority, Individuals, or University Directly Before Consulting a Lawyer:

   • What families think: “I need to get answers and make them stop.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Direct confrontation will immediately put the involved parties on high alert. They will likely:
     • Delete digital evidence.
     • Coach witnesses on what to say (or not say).
     • Prepare their legal defense.
     • Minimize or deny the incident.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in detail, then contact an experienced hazing attorney. Let your legal counsel manage initial communications and investigations to ensure evidence is preserved.

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms Without Legal Review:

   • What universities often do: Present parents with waivers, non-disclosure agreements, or internal resolution proposals that offer psychological services or minor sanctions in exchange for signing away your right to pursue further legal action.
   • Why it’s wrong: Such documents almost always severely limit your legal options. You could be waiving your right to sue, forever closing the door to full accountability and fair compensation.
   • What to do instead: Never sign anything provided by the university, the fraternity, or their insurers without an independent attorney reviewing it first.

4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer:

   • What families think: “I want to warn others and expose what happened.”
   • Why it’s wrong: While understandable, public posts can be used against you. Defense attorneys will meticulously comb through anything posted, looking for inconsistencies, admissions, or statements that can undermine your case. It can also make it harder to maintain privacy or control the narrative later.
   • What to do instead: Document privately. Your attorney can advise on the appropriate timing and strategy for any public statements, if desired.

5. Waiting Indefinitely “to See How the University Handles It”:

   • What families think: “The university says they’re investigating, so we’ll trust their process.”
   • Why it’s wrong: University investigations are administrative, not legal. They primarily focus on policy violations, and their incentives are often to mitigate institutional damage, not to maximize a victim’s financial recovery or ensure full legal accountability. Crucial evidence may be lost, and the statute of limitations continues to run.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence immediately and consult a lawyer alongside any university process. Ralph Manginello’s civil and criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) is invaluable here, as he understands how to protect your rights even while university processes unfold.

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without an Attorney:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim quickly and fairly.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Your recorded statement can be used against you, and initial offers are almost always lowball. Adjusters may try to get you to admit partial fault or downplay injuries.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak and provide your attorney’s contact information. Your lawyer will handle all communications with insurers.

SHORT FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and UT Austin generally enjoy some degree of sovereign immunity under Texas law. However, exceptions exist for specific claims, such as gross negligence, violations of federal laws like Title IX, or when lawsuits are brought against individual employees in their personal capacity. Private universities like SMU and Baylor generally do not have sovereign immunity protections. Every case is unique and depends on specific facts. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  Yes, it certainly can be. While hazing is a Class B misdemeanor by default in Texas, it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Additionally, individuals who fail to report hazing, or organizations that authorize or encourage it, can face misdemeanor charges.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes. Texas law (Education Code § 37.155) explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. The law recognizes that true, voluntary “agreement” is often impossible in hazing situations due to intense peer pressure, the desire for acceptance, and the explicit or implicit threats of exclusion.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  In Texas, the general statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims is two years from the date of injury or death. However, this period can be influenced by factors such as the “discovery rule” (when the harm was reasonably discoverable) or if the victim was a minor. Time is always critical in hazing cases because evidence disappears rapidly. We urge you to call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to discuss your specific timeline. For more information about statute of limitations, watch our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of hazing—whether on or off campus, in a private residence, or at a remote retreat—does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities/sororities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship of the organization, their knowledge of off-campus activities, their failure to supervise, and the foreseeability of hazing occurring in such unregulated environments. Many significant hazing cases, including fatal ones, have occurred off-campus.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  The vast majority of hazing cases are resolved through confidential settlements long before trial. While some families choose to go public to advocate for change, others prefer to maintain privacy. We prioritize your family’s needs and work to respect your privacy throughout the legal process while still aggressively pursuing accountability and compensation.

ABOUT THE MANGINELLO LAW FIRM + CALL TO ACTION

When your family faces the devastation of a hazing incident, you need more than just a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand the intricate dynamics of student organizations, the formidable legal defenses of powerful institutions, and how to effectively fight back. The Manginello Law Firm, operating as Attorney911, brings unparalleled experience and insight to severe injury and wrongful death cases stemming from hazing.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Angelina County and beyond. We understand that hazing at Texas universities can impact families far beyond the campus borders.

Our unique qualifications are especially suited for the complexities of hazing litigation:

• Insurance Insider Advantage with Lupe Peña: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable insight from her previous career as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/). She intimately understands how national fraternities, universities, and their insurers evaluate, delay, and attempt to deny hazing claims. She knows their playbook—their tactics, their coverage exclusion arguments, and their settlement strategies—because she used to help write it. This insider knowledge gives us a profound advantage in negotiating and litigating against powerful defendants.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions with Ralph Manginello: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, is no stranger to taking on billion-dollar defendants. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, demonstrating our firm’s capability to handle complex, high-stakes cases against well-resourced opponents. Our team has extensive federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas), proving we are not intimidated by national fraternities, large universities, or their formidable defense teams. We fight to hold these institutions accountable, no matter how powerful they are.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record of securing significant results in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. Hazing often results in devastating, long-term injuries (like rhabdomyolysis or traumatic brain injury) or tragic fatalities. We work with leading medical experts, life care planners, and economists to meticulously calculate the full scope of damages, from immediate medical costs to a lifetime of care and lost earning capacity. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force genuine accountability.

• Dual Criminal and Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph Manginello’s extensive background in criminal defense, including his membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), means we understand both sides of hazing incidents when criminal charges are involved. This dual civil/criminal capability allows us to provide comprehensive guidance, whether your child is a victim, a witness, or facing potential charges related to their involvement in a hazing incident.

• Unwavering Victim Advocacy: We know that a hazing incident can be one of the most traumatizing experiences a family can endure. We approach every case with deep empathy, prioritizing your child’s well-being while relentlessly pursuing answers and justice. Our goal is not merely a quick settlement but a thorough investigation and genuine accountability to help prevent future harm.

Empathetic Advocacy for Angelina County Families

We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to walk alongside you, get you answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family.

If your child (or you) experienced hazing at any Texas campus—from Lufkin to College Station, from Nacogdoches to Houston—we want to hear from you. Families in Angelina 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’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family. There is no cost to you for an initial consultation, and we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc)

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story without judgment and with compassion.
• We will review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records).
• We will explain your legal options: a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what to expect during the legal process.
• We will answer your questions about costs and fees (contingency fee means no upfront fees).
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot—take time to decide what’s right for your family.
• Everything you tell us is completely confidential.

You don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

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

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

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