Hazing Injury & Wrongful Death Lawsuits: A Complete Guide for Aquilla, Texas Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You’re Not Alone

As parents in Aquilla and across Hill County, we send our children to Texas universities with hope and pride. We trust these institutions to provide not just education, but safety and community. But what happens when that trust is shattered by hazing—when tradition becomes torment, and bonding becomes brutality?

Right now, just a few hours from Aquilla in Houston, we’re witnessing one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. Our firm represents Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, housing corporation, and 13 fraternity leaders. Bermudez, a transfer student in fall 2025, endured what the university itself called “deeply disturbing” conduct: forced extreme workouts, humiliating “pledge fanny pack” requirements, simulated waterboarding with a hose, and consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting. The physical toll left him with rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure, passing brown urine and requiring four days of hospitalization. The Pi Kappa Phi chapter was suspended on November 6, 2025, and members voted to surrender their charter on November 14.

This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s part of a pattern affecting Texas families from Aquilla to Amarillo, College Station to Corpus Christi. If your child has been hazed at a Texas fraternity, sorority, Corps program, athletic team, or campus organization, this guide explains what you need to know about your legal rights and options.

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

Understanding Hazing in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

For Aquilla families whose children attend Texas universities, understanding modern hazing is critical. What was once dismissed as “boys will be boys” or “harmless tradition” now involves sophisticated methods designed to avoid detection while causing serious physical and psychological harm.

What Counts as Hazing in Texas?

Under Texas Education Code Chapter 37, hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that endangers mental or physical health or safety for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

Key points for Hill County families to understand:

• Location doesn’t matter – it can happen on-campus, at off-campus houses, Airbnbs, or retreat centers
• Consent is NOT a defense – even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing under Texas law
• Mental harm counts – psychological abuse is just as illegal as physical abuse
• Recklessness is enough – they don’t need to intend harm, just be reckless about the risk

Modern Hazing Methods: What Aquilla Parents Should Recognize

Alcohol and Substance Hazing

• Forced drinking games with entire bottles or handles of liquor
• “Lineup” drinking where pledges must consume alcohol rapidly
• Big/Little nights where new members must drink dangerously
• Coerced consumption of unknown substances or dangerous mixtures

Physical Hazing

• Extreme workouts (“smokings”) beyond safe limits – hundreds of push-ups, squats, or calisthenics
• Paddling, beating, or physical punishment
• Sleep deprivation through all-night “meetings” or tasks
• Food/water restriction or forced consumption of disgusting substances
• Exposure to extreme temperatures without proper protection

Psychological and Digital Hazing

• 24/7 group chat monitoring with immediate response demands
• Public humiliation on social media or in group settings
• Social isolation from non-members
• Geo-tracking via apps like Find My Friends
• Mandatory embarrassing social media posts or TikTok challenges

Sexualized Hazing

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts or positions
• Degrading costumes or role-playing
• Sexual assault or coercion (which triggers Title IX protections)

Racist, Homophobic, or Discriminatory Hazing

• Use of slurs or stereotypes
• Role-playing offensive caricatures
• Targeting based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

Aquilla families should understand that hazing extends beyond Greek life:

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
• Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs
• Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer, swimming)
• Spirit groups and tradition organizations
• Marching bands and performing arts groups
• Academic and service organizations

Texas Hazing Law: What Aquilla Families Need to Know

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law

Texas Education Code Chapter 37 establishes clear criminal penalties:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
• Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing that causes injury requiring medical treatment
• State Jail Felony: Hazing that causes serious bodily injury or death

Additional criminal exposure:

• Failing to report hazing when you’re a member or officer: misdemeanor
• Retaliating against someone who reports: misdemeanor
• Furnishing alcohol to minors: separate criminal charges
• Assault, battery, or manslaughter: possible in severe cases

Organizational Liability

Organizations can face:

• Criminal fines up to $10,000 per violation
• University sanctions including loss of recognition
• Civil lawsuits for negligence, negligent supervision, and wrongful death

Good Faith Reporting Protections

Texas law provides immunity for good faith reporting of hazing to university officials or law enforcement. This means if your child calls 911 during a medical emergency, even if they were drinking underage, they’re protected from disciplinary action related to that reporting.

Consent is Not a Defense

Texas Education Code §37.155 explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to the hazing activity.” This is crucial for Hill County families to understand – your child “going along with it” doesn’t make it legal or acceptable.

Federal Law Overlay

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently, strengthen prevention, and maintain public hazing data
• Title IX: When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility, additional federal protections apply
• Clery Act: Requires reporting of certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

The tragic cases below aren’t just national news – they’re patterns that repeat at Texas universities, including those where Aquilla students attend.

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Common Pattern

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)

• Forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
• Died from alcohol poisoning
• $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, $3M from BGSU)
• Chapter president ordered to pay $6.5 million personally

Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017)

• Bid acceptance night with forced excessive drinking
• Fell multiple times captured on chapter security cameras
• Delayed medical help led to fatal brain injuries
• 18 members charged with over 1,000 criminal counts
• Led to Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking
• Died with BAC of 0.495%
• Led to Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony in Louisiana
• $6.1 million verdict for family

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

• “Big Brother Night” with handles of hard liquor
• Died from acute alcohol poisoning
• FSU suspended all Greek life temporarily

Physical and Ritualized Hazing

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)

• Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
• Fatal traumatic brain injury
• Delayed 911 call
• National fraternity criminally convicted
• Banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)

• Forced to consume excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”
• Suffered severe, permanent brain damage
• Cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care
• Settlements with 22 defendants (confidential multi-million dollar amounts)

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025)

• Widespread sexualized and racist hazing within football program
• Multiple lawsuits against university and coaching staff
• Head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired, then settled wrongful-termination lawsuit confidentially
• Shows hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs

What These Cases Mean for Aquilla Families

These national precedents matter because:

• They establish pattern evidence that helps prove negligence
• They show courts will hold national organizations accountable
• They demonstrate universities can be liable for failing to prevent known risks
• They prove individual officers face personal liability (like the $6.5 million against Pi Kappa Alpha’s president)

The same fraternities involved in these national cases – Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon – have chapters at Texas universities where Aquilla students attend.

Texas Universities: Where Aquilla Students Face Hazing Risks

Aquilla families in Hill County typically send students to several Texas universities. Understanding the specific risks and histories at each campus is crucial.

University of Houston: Our Current Battle Ground

For Aquilla Families: UH is approximately 3-3.5 hours from Aquilla, making it a realistic choice for Hill County students seeking a large urban university experience.

Current Active Case – Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi:
We’re currently representing Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit alleging severe hazing by Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter. Key facts from the Click2Houston report and ABC13 coverage:

• Hazing Locations: Pi Kappa Phi house, Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Boulevard Park
• Methods: “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation, forced dress codes, overnight chauffeuring, extreme workouts, hose spraying “similar to waterboarding,” forced consumption of milk/hot dogs/peppercorns until vomiting
• Medical Harm: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, brown urine, 4-day hospitalization
• Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national HQ, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual members
• Response: Chapter suspended Nov 6, 2025; charter surrendered Nov 14, 2025; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”

UH’s Greek Ecosystem:

• Interfraternity Council: Alpha Epsilon Pi, Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Delta Upsilon, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Lambda Phi Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Sigma Pi, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Theta Chi
• Panhellenic: Alpha Chi Omega, Chi Omega, Delta Gamma, Delta Zeta, Phi Mu, Zeta Tau Alpha
• NPHC: All Divine Nine organizations

UH Hazing Policy:

• Prohibits hazing on and off campus
• Provides reporting through Dean of Students and UHPD
• Claims “zero tolerance” but prior incidents show recurring problems

For Aquilla Students at UH:

• Report hazing to Dean of Students Office or UHPD
• Document everything immediately – UH moves quickly on internal investigations
• Understand that Harris County courts would handle any civil litigation

Baylor University: Closest Major University to Aquilla

For Aquilla Families: Baylor in Waco is the closest major university to Aquilla (approximately 45-60 minutes), making it a common choice for Hill County students seeking private Christian education with strong Greek life.

Documented Incidents:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020)

• 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
• Suspensions staggered over early season
• Details kept confidential but confirmed by university

Greek Life Context:

• Panhellenic: Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Phi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, Zeta Tau Alpha
• Interfraternity Council: Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Chi
• NPHC: Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alpha Phi Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta

Baylor’s Unique Challenges:

• Religious identity creates additional pressure to maintain image
• History of Title IX scandals shows institutional protection patterns
• Private university status affects transparency

McLennan County Legal Context:
For Aquilla families with students at Baylor:

• McLennan County courts handle local litigation
• Baylor’s private status affects sovereign immunity arguments
• Waco PD and Baylor PD share jurisdiction depending on location

What Baylor Students Should Know:

• Baylor’s “zero tolerance” policies exist alongside recurring violations
• Confidential reporting systems may protect the university more than victims
• Early legal consultation preserves options before internal resolution pressures

Texas A&M University: The Texas Standard

For Aquilla Families: Texas A&M in College Station is approximately 2-2.5 hours from Aquilla, a flagship choice for Hill County students seeking traditional Texas university experience with strong Corps and Greek life.

Corps of Cadets Hazing Lawsuit (2023)

• Cadet alleged being bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth
• Additional claims of simulated sexual acts and degradation
• Sought over $1 million in damages
• A&M claimed matter handled under Corps regulations

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021)

• Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, spit
• Caused severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
• Pledges sued fraternity for $1 million
• Chapter suspended for two years

Texas A&M’s Dual Systems:

• Corps of Cadets: Military-style environment with tradition-heavy culture
• Greek Life: 50+ fraternities and sororities with IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC councils

Brazos County Legal Context:
For Aquilla families with students at Texas A&M:

• Brazos County courts handle local litigation
• College Station PD and Texas A&M PD jurisdiction divisions
• University’s public status triggers sovereign immunity considerations

Special Considerations for Corps Members:

• Military culture emphasizes chain of command and loyalty
• Reporting hazing may be seen as “weakness” or betrayal
• Veterans’ benefits and military careers can be at risk
• We understand these pressures and protect our clients accordingly

University of Texas at Austin: Flagship Transparency

For Aquilla Families: UT Austin is approximately 2.5-3 hours from Aquilla, attracting Hill County students seeking premier academic programs in the state capital.

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page:
UT maintains one of Texas’ most transparent hazing disclosure systems at hazing.utexas.edu. Recent entries include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023)

• New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
• Found to be hazing
• Chapter placed on probation with hazing prevention education required

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (2024)

• Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted at party
• Injuries: dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
• Student sued SAE chapter for over $1 million
• Chapter already under suspension for prior violations

Spirit Group Sanctions:

• Texas Wranglers and other spirit groups sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol hazing
• Shows haizing extends beyond Greek life

Travis County Legal Context:
For Aquilla families with students at UT:

• Travis County courts handle litigation
• Austin PD and UTPD jurisdiction based on location
• Public university status with sovereign immunity considerations

UT’s Greek Ecosystem:

• Panhellenic: Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Epsilon Phi, Alpha Phi, Alpha Xi Delta, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Delta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, Sigma Delta Tau, Zeta Tau Alpha
• Interfraternity Council: Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Lambda Phi Epsilon, Omega Delta Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Tau Kappa Epsilon

What UT’s Transparency Means:

• Public violation records help establish pattern evidence
• Prior sanctions show university knowledge of problems
• Repeated violations demonstrate ineffective enforcement

Southern Methodist University: Private University Challenges

For Aquilla Families: SMU in Dallas is approximately 2 hours from Aquilla, appealing to Hill County students seeking private education with strong Greek tradition.

Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017)

• New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, sleep deprived
• Chapter suspended
• Restrictions on recruiting until 2021

SMU’s Greek Dominance:

• Greek life participation rates among highest nationally
• Affluent student body with socioeconomic pressures
• Private university status limits public transparency

Dallas County Legal Context:
For Aquilla families with students at SMU:

• Dallas County courts handle litigation
• University Park PD and SMU PD jurisdiction
• Private status affects sovereign immunity arguments

SMU Greek Organizations:

• Panhellenic: Alpha Chi Omega, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Gamma Phi Beta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi
• Interfraternity Council: Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Alpha Order, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi
• NPHC: All Divine Nine organizations present

Private University Realities:

• Less public reporting required
• Internal investigations often prioritize reputation protection
• Donor and alumni pressure shapes responses
• We know how to obtain discovery even from private institutions

The Greek Ecosystem: National Patterns Meet Texas Campuses

Why National Histories Matter for Aquilla Families

When your child is hazed by a Pi Kappa Phi chapter at UH, that national organization’s history matters because:

• They’ve had prior deadly incidents (Andrew Coffey at FSU)
• They have written policies they failed to enforce
• They collect dues and exercise control over local chapters
• They provide insurance coverage that may be accessible

National Organizations with Texas Presence

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

• National History: Stone Foltz death ($10M settlement), David Bogenberger death ($14M settlement)
• Texas Chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, Texas State, Texas Tech
• Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing, extreme physical hazing

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

• National History: Multiple deaths nationwide, traumatic brain injury lawsuit at Alabama, chemical burns at Texas A&M
• Texas Chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, Texas State, Texas Tech
• Pattern: Alcohol hazing, physical abuse, chemical burns

Pi Kappa Phi

• National History: Andrew Coffey death at FSU, Leonel Bermudez case at UH
• Texas Chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin
• Pattern: Extreme physical hazing, forced consumption rituals

Phi Delta Theta

• National History: Max Gruver death at LSU ($6.1M verdict)
• Texas Chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
• Pattern: Drinking game hazing, “Bible study” rituals

Kappa Alpha Order

• National History: Multiple hazing suspensions including SMU chapter
• Texas Chapters: Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, Texas Tech
• Pattern: Paddling, physical punishment, tradition-based abuse

Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Tracking the Organizations

Our firm maintains what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine – a comprehensive database of Greek organizations across Texas. For Aquilla families, this means we already know:

IRS B83 Registered Texas Organizations (Sample):

• KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC (EIN 133048786), 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845
• BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC (EIN 462267515), 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035
• SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY EPSILON XI CHAPTER (EIN 746084905), 4300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204
• TEXAS KAPPA SIGMA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION INC (EIN 741380362), PO Box 470061, Fort Worth, TX 76147
• DELTA PHI CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY ALUMNI HOUSING (EIN 900239693), 668 Promontory Lane, Dallas, TX 75208

Metro Area Concentrations:

• Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510 Greek organizations
• Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro: 188 Greek organizations
• Austin-Round Rock Metro: 154 Greek organizations
• San Antonio Metro: 86 Greek organizations
• College Station-Bryan Metro: 42 Greek organizations
• Waco Metro: 27 Greek organizations (including Baylor)

Texas-Wide Total: 1,423 fraternities and sororities across 25 metros

This isn’t abstract data – it’s the map we use to identify every potentially liable entity when an Aquilla student is hazed.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery

Critical Evidence Categories

Digital Evidence (Most Important)

• Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack
• Social Media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook Messenger
• Deleted Messages: Digital forensics can recover deleted content
• Location Data: Find My Friends, Snapchat Maps, geotagged posts
• Event Planning: Texts/emails organizing hazing events

Medical Evidence

• ER records and hospitalization documentation
• Lab results (blood alcohol, toxicology, kidney function for rhabdomyolysis)
• Imaging (X-rays, CT scans for injuries)
• Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses)
• Future care plans for permanent injuries

Physical Evidence

• Photographs of injuries (multiple angles, with scale reference)
• Damaged clothing or personal items
• Paddles, props, or objects used in hazing
• Receipts for forced purchases

Institutional Records

• University conduct files (prior violations by same organization)
• National fraternity risk management files
• Insurance policies and coverage documents
• Emails between university administrators about hazing concerns

Witness Testimony

• Other pledges or new members
• Former members who quit due to hazing
• Roommates, RAs, or friends who observed changes
• Medical personnel who treated injuries

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Educational costs (missed semesters, lost scholarships)
• Therapy and counseling expenses
• Life care plans for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and psychological harm
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Humiliation and damage to reputation

Wrongful Death Damages

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
• Grief and emotional suffering of family members
• Parents’ and siblings’ mental health treatment

Punitive Damages

• Available when conduct is particularly reckless or malicious
• Intended to punish defendants and deter future hazing
• Subject to Texas caps but can be significant

Case Strategy: Overcoming Common Defenses

Defense: “The Victim Consented”

• Our Response: Texas law explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing
• Evidence: Power imbalance, peer pressure, fear of exclusion
• Precedent: Courts consistently reject consent defenses in hazing cases

Defense: “National HQ Didn’t Know”

• Our Response: Pattern evidence from other chapters creates constructive knowledge
• Evidence: Prior incidents, national training materials, risk management failures
• Precedent: Pi Kappa Alpha national held liable despite claim of ignorance

Defense: “It Happened Off-Campus”

• Our Response: Location doesn’t eliminate duty when organization sponsors/controls activity
• Evidence: Chapter organization of event, national oversight, university recognition
• Precedent: Pi Delta Psi held liable for off-campus retreat death

Defense: “We Have Anti-Hazing Policies”

• Our Response: Policies without enforcement are meaningless
• Evidence: Prior violations with minimal punishment, lack of meaningful oversight
• Precedent: Every major hazing death involved organizations with written policies

Defense: “University Sovereign Immunity”

• Our Response: Exceptions for gross negligence, Title IX violations, individual liability
• Strategy: Sue individual administrators in personal capacity, allege constitutional violations
• Result: Even when immunity applies, universities often settle to avoid discovery

Insurance Coverage Strategies

Fraternity and university insurers routinely argue:

• Hazing is an “intentional act” excluded from coverage
• Criminal conduct isn’t covered
• Only certain defendants are insured

Our Insurance Insider Advantage:
Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows:

• How insurers value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Their delay tactics and coverage denial strategies
• How to negotiate within policy limits and pursue bad faith claims
• Which policies to target (national, local, university, homeowner’s)

Practical Guidance for Aquilla Families

For Parents: Warning Signs and Immediate Actions

Red Flags Your Child May Be Hazed:

• Unexplained injuries or frequent “accidents”
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Sudden withdrawal from family and non-Greek friends
• Secretive about organizational activities
• Constant phone monitoring for group chat messages
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Academic decline or skipping classes for “mandatory” events
• Financial strain from unexpected “dues” or forced purchases

If You Suspect Hazing:

1. Talk Openly but Non-Judgmentally

   • “How are things with your fraternity/sorority?”
   • “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
   • “Have you seen anyone get hurt or been hurt yourself?”

2. Document Everything

   • Write down dates, times, details your child shares
   • Screenshot any messages they show you
   • Photograph visible injuries
   • Save physical evidence

3. Prioritize Safety

   • If in immediate danger, call 911
   • Get medical attention for any injuries
   • Remove from dangerous situations

4. Contact an Attorney BEFORE Reporting

   • We can help preserve evidence before it’s destroyed
   • Guide you through university reporting processes
   • Protect against retaliation

48-Hour Action Checklist:

• Hour 1-6: Medical care, safety, initial evidence preservation
• Hour 6-24: Full digital evidence collection, witness identification
• Hour 24-48: Legal consultation, strategic reporting decisions
• Week 1: Medical follow-up, formal evidence requests, case strategy

For Students: Self-Protection and Reporting

Is This Hazing? Ask Yourself:

• Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
• Is this dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Would my parents/university approve if they knew?
• Am I being told to keep secrets or lie?

Safe Exit Strategies:

• Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend)
• Email chapter president: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
• Do NOT attend “one last meeting” where pressure/retaliation may occur
• If threatened, report to campus police and seek protective order

Evidence Preservation:

1. Screenshot Everything: Group chats, DMs, emails
2. Record Conversations: Texas is one-party consent state
3. Photograph Injuries: Multiple angles, include scale reference
4. Save Physical Items: Clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
5. Document Names: Witnesses, participants, locations

Where to Report:

• Campus: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, Title IX Office
• Law Enforcement: Campus police for on-campus, local PD for off-campus
• Anonymous: National Anti-Hazing Hotline 1-888-NOT-HAZE
• Legal: Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 (confidential consultation)

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKE #1: Deleting Evidence

• Why It’s Wrong: Looks like cover-up, destroys crucial proof
• Correct Action: Preserve everything, even embarrassing content

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization

• Why It’s Wrong: Triggers evidence destruction, witness coaching
• Correct Action: Document quietly, let attorney handle communication

MISTAKE #3: Signing University Agreements

• Why It’s Wrong: May waive legal rights, accept lowball settlements
• Correct Action: Consult attorney before signing anything

MISTAKE #4: Social Media Posts

• Why It’s Wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything, inconsistencies hurt case
• Correct Action: Document privately, let attorney control public messaging

MISTAKE #5: Waiting “To See What Happens”

• Why It’s Wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
• Correct Action: Preserve evidence NOW, consult attorney immediately

MISTAKE #6: Talking to Insurance Adjusters

• Why It’s Wrong: Recorded statements used against you, early lowball settlements
• Correct Action: “My attorney will contact you”

MISTAKE #7: Letting Child Return for “One Last Meeting”

• Why It’s Wrong: Pressure, intimidation, statements used against case
• Correct Action: Once considering legal action, all communication through attorney

Why Attorney911 for Aquilla Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications

Insurance Insider Knowledge (Mr. Lupe Peña)
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows:

• Exactly how fraternity and university insurers value hazing claims
• Their delay tactics, coverage denial strategies, and settlement approaches
• How to negotiate within policy limits and pursue bad faith claims
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation (Ralph Manginello)

• One of few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation
• Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
• 25+ years handling cases against billion-dollar defendants
• “We’re not intimidated by national fraternities or universities with unlimited legal budgets.”

Multi-Million Dollar Results

• Wrongful death settlements in the millions
• Catastrophic injury cases with lifetime care planning
• Economists and life care planners on our expert team
• “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability

• Ralph’s HCCLA membership signals elite criminal defense expertise
• Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
• Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
• “We see the whole board, not just one side of the case.”

Investigative Depth

• Digital forensics experts for recovering deleted messages
• Medical experts for rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD evaluation
• Greek life culture experts for understanding organizational dynamics
• “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it – because it does.”

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine

While other firms start from scratch, we begin with:

• 1,423 Greek organizations tracked across 25 Texas metros
• IRS B83 records for 125+ Texas-registered Greek entities
• Campus roster intelligence for UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor
• Metro organization mapping for Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, College Station, Waco
• Prior incident database from national hazing cases

For Aquilla families, this means:

• We already know the organizations behind the Greek letters
• We can trace liability through house corporations, alumni associations, national HQs
• We identify all potential insurance coverage sources immediately
• “We don’t need to guess who’s responsible – we already have the data.”

Our Approach to Hazing Cases

1. Immediate Response

• 24/7 availability for hazing emergencies
• Evidence preservation guidance within hours
• Medical care coordination if needed

2. Thorough Investigation

• Digital forensics for deleted messages
• Subpoenas for national fraternity records
• Public records requests for university files
• Witness interviews and evidence collection

3. Strategic Case Building

• Identify all potentially liable parties
• Analyze insurance coverage options
• Develop damages model with economists
• Prepare for settlement or trial

4. Client-Centered Representation

• Regular updates every 2-3 weeks
• Spanish language services available (Se habla Español)
• Respect for family privacy and trauma
• Commitment to preventing future harm

Frequently Asked Questions for Aquilla Families

Q: Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?
A: Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

Q: Is hazing a felony in Texas?
A: It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

Q: Can my child bring a case if they “agreed” to the initiation?
A: Yes. Texas Education Code §37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

Q: How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?
A: Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately if you’re considering legal action.

Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?
A: Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

Q: Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?
A: Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

Q: How much does it cost to hire Attorney911 for a hazing case?
A: We work on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases, including hazing. This means:

• No upfront costs or hourly fees
• We only get paid if we recover compensation for you
• Our fee comes from the recovery, not from your pocket
• You pay nothing if we don’t win your case

Q: Do you handle cases outside of Houston?
A: Yes, we serve families throughout Texas, including Aquilla and Hill County. While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we handle cases statewide and can work with local counsel in other jurisdictions when needed.

Q: What if my child is afraid to come forward?
A: We understand this fear completely. Hazing creates powerful pressures to stay silent. We can:

• Consult with you and your child confidentially
• Explain protections against retaliation
• Help navigate anonymous reporting options
• Provide psychological support referrals
• Your child’s safety and wellbeing come first

Call to Action for Aquilla Families

If hazing has impacted your family—whether your child attends UH, Baylor, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or any Texas campus—you don’t have to face this alone.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

When you contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911:

1. We Listen Without Judgment

   • Hear your complete story
   • Understand your family’s specific situation
   • Answer all your questions honestly

2. We Review Your Evidence

   • Screenshots, photos, medical records
   • University communications
   • Any documentation you have

3. We Explain Your Options

   • Criminal reporting possibilities
   • Civil lawsuit potential
   • University disciplinary processes
   • Realistic timelines and expectations

4. We Discuss Next Steps

   • Evidence preservation actions
   • Medical care coordination if needed
   • Communication strategies with university
   • Protection against retaliation

5. No Pressure to Hire

   • Take time to decide what’s right for your family
   • Everything discussed is confidential
   • No obligation to proceed

Contact Attorney911 Today

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781 (available for emergencies)
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello) or lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña)

Spanish Language Services Available
Hablamos Español – Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish

Serving Aquilla and All of Texas

While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Aquilla, Hill County, and surrounding communities. Distance doesn’t limit our ability to help—technology allows us to consult, investigate, and represent families across the state.

If your child has been hazed at any Texas campus:

• Don’t let the organization control the narrative
• Don’t accept university promises without legal advice
• Don’t let evidence disappear while you decide
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 TODAY for immediate guidance

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