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When the Price of Belonging is Too High: A Texas Hazing Guide for Austin County Families

The campus lights might twinkle under the vast Texas sky, painting a picture of opportunity and excitement. For many families in Austin County and across our great state, the dream of higher education takes root, often culminating in applications to institutions like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor. We envision academic success, lifelong friendships, and personal growth. But sometimes, a darker side emerges from the shadows of tradition, secrecy, and peer pressure: hazing.

Imagine this: It’s bid night at an off-campus house near a prominent Texas university—a place where a student from Austin County might easily find themselves. Your child, beaming with pride, is blindfolded and ushered into a cramped, overheated room. The air is thick with anticipation and the smell of stale beer. Older members, their faces obscured by the dim light, chant rhythmically, urging your child to consume a concoction of foul-tasting liquids. Physical challenges, bordering on abuse, are presented as “tests of loyalty.” No one dares to question the “tradition.” When a fellow new member stumbles, then collapses, the chanting momentarily falters, replaced by nervous murmurs and frantic whispers: “Don’t call 911, we’ll get shut down.” Your child, caught between the fear for their friend’s life and the terrifying prospect of betraying their new “brothers” or “sisters,” feels utterly trapped.

This isn’t a scene from a movie; it’s a chillingly common reality across campuses nationwide. It’s what our firm, Attorney911, sees in hazing cases year after year. For families in Austin County and beyond, understanding the true nature of modern hazing and the legal avenues for accountability is critical.

This comprehensive guide is built for Austin County families and all Texans affected by hazing. We will cover:

• What hazing truly looks like in 2025, far beyond outdated stereotypes.
• The complex legal landscape of hazing in Texas and at the federal level.
• Insights from major national hazing cases and how their lessons apply to our Texas universities.
• Detailed explorations of hazing trends and policies at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University.
• How the dark histories of some national fraternities and sororities contribute to the risks at local Texas chapters.
• The critical steps to building a strong legal case, from evidence collection to pursuing damages.
• Practical, actionable advice for parents, students, and witnesses navigating the hazing crisis.

While this article provides comprehensive information, please remember that it is general information, not specific legal advice. Every hazing incident is unique, and its particular facts will dictate the appropriate legal strategy. The Manginello Law Firm is here to offer a confidential evaluation of your specific situation. From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Austin County and the surrounding areas, ensuring that if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face it alone.

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 Austin County families and those across Texas, understanding modern hazing means shedding old stereotypes. It’s not just a harmless prank or a “boys will be boys” ritual. Hazing in 2025 is a complex, often brutal, and sometimes deadly abuse of power that preys on the desire to belong. It has evolved, utilizing digital platforms and even disguising itself as “wellness” or “team-building,” making it harder to recognize, but no less dangerous.

In Texas, and under most anti-hazing laws, hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act conducted by a group or individual against a student, for the purpose of affiliation with a student organization, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student. This broad definition is crucial because it covers far more than just physical assaults. The claim “I agreed to do it” does not make it safe or legal when that agreement is made under duress, coercion, or the immense pressure to gain acceptance into a group. True consent cannot exist in an environment where there is a power imbalance and fear of exclusion.

MAIN CATEGORIES OF HAZING

Modern hazing manifests in various insidious forms:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is, tragically, the most common and deadliest form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often rapidly. “Lineups,” “bottle exchanges,” drinking games where pledges must perform for older members, or “big/little reveal” events that push individuals past their limits are all examples. Pledges may be pressured to consume unknown, mixed, or dangerous substances, leading to alcohol poisoning, injury, or even death. Many of the national cases discussed later in this guide highlight this devastating pattern.

• Physical Hazing: This category is what most people typically imagine. It includes overt acts like paddling and beatings. However, it also encompasses extreme calisthenics, forced “workouts” or “smokings” far beyond legitimate athletic conditioning, sleep deprivation, and deprivation of food or water. Pledges can be exposed to extreme cold or heat, or left in dangerous, isolated environments (like the University of California, Northridge case where a pledge was abandoned barefoot in the Angeles Mountains).

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This deeply degrading and psychologically damaging form of hazing includes forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (such as the “roasted pig” pose alleged in a Texas A&M Corps of Cadets lawsuit), or wearing humiliating costumes. These acts often have racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones, further traumatizing individuals. The goal is often to break down an individual’s self-esteem and foster absolute obedience through shame.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked, psychological hazing inflicts severe mental and emotional distress. It involves verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, and social isolation. Pledges may be manipulated into confessing personal secrets, subjected to public or private shaming sessions, or constantly belittled. This type of hazing erodes self-worth and can leave lasting psychological scars, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

• Digital/Online Hazing: A newer but rapidly growing form, digital hazing leverages technology to perpetuate abuse. This can involve constant monitoring through group chats (like GroupMe or Discord), demanding immediate responses at all hours, or issuing “challenges” that might include public humiliation via Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok. Pledges may be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or forced to track their location for older members. This constant digital presence creates a pervasive sense of control and anxiety.

WHERE HAZING ACTUALLY HAPPENS

It’s a common misconception that hazing is limited to “frat boys.” However, our legal experience and extensive research confirm that hazing is a pervasive issue across various collegiate groups, driven by cultures of social status, tradition, and secrecy.

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek-letter organizations. While many chapters strive for positive experiences, others unfortunately continue dangerous traditions.

• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Organizations with strong tradition and hierarchical structures, like the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets, can be breeding grounds for hazing that often includes physical trials, sleep deprivation, and intense psychological pressure, disguised as “training.”

• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Groups like the Texas Cowboys at UT Austin or other campus spirit organizations have faced sanctions for hazing violations, often involving alcohol, forced activities, and humiliating tasks.

• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports, hazing is a documented problem. This can range from forced alcohol consumption to physical assaults and degrading initiations, as seen in the Northwestern University football scandal.

• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups are not immune. The tragic death of Robert Champion from drum major hazing at Florida A&M University underscored that hazing can occur in any group where strict hierarchies and traditions are unchecked.

• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: While less common, these groups can also engage in hazing, particularly if they prioritize exclusivity or have “secret” initiation rites.

The common thread is that unexamined “tradition” coupled with a desire for group cohesion and a fear of “breaking the chain” can foster environments where hazing flourishes, often without the explicit knowledge or approval of university administrations or national organizations. This underground nature makes it particularly difficult for families in Austin County to discover and intervene, emphasizing the need for vigilance and legal expertise.

LAW & LIABILITY FRAMEWORK (TEXAS + FEDERAL)

Navigating the legal aftermath of hazing can be overwhelming for Austin County families. Understanding the laws, who can be held responsible, and the types of cases involved is the first step toward seeking justice. In Texas, hazing is a serious matter with criminal and civil implications, reinforced by federal regulations designed to promote campus safety.

TEXAS HAZING LAW BASICS (EDUCATION CODE)

Texas has clear statutory provisions against hazing, primarily outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. This framework is crucial for understanding your rights and potential legal avenues in Austin County and anywhere in Texas.

Definition of Hazing: Under Texas Education Code § 37.151, hazing means “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

In plain English, if someone makes you do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a school-affiliated group, and they intended to do it or were reckless about the risks involved, that’s hazing under Texas law. Critically, the law applies whether the act happens on or off campus, underscoring that location does not negate culpability. Similarly, it explicitly states that “consent” is not a defense if the act meets the definition of hazing.

Criminal Penalties: Texas law imposes criminal penalties for hazing, with the severity depending on the harm inflicted.

• Most hazing acts are a Class B Misdemeanor, carrying potential fines and jail time.
• If hazing results in an injury requiring medical treatment, it can be upgraded to a Class A Misdemeanor.
• Most significantly, hazing that causes serious bodily injury or death is a State Jail Felony. This means that severe hazing can lead to felony charges in Texas.
  Beyond direct participation, individuals can also face misdemeanor charges for failing to report hazing if they were fully aware it was occurring and had reason to believe the victim was in danger. Retaliation against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

Organizational Liability: Texas Education Code § 37.153 explicitly states that organizations (like fraternities, sororities, clubs, or teams) can be held criminally responsible for hazing. This occurs if the organization itself authorized or encouraged the hazing, or if an officer or member acting in their official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it. Penalties for organizations can include fines up to $10,000 and, critically, the university can revoke its recognition or ban the organization from campus.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (Reporter Protections): Texas Education Code § 37.154 provides some protection. An individual who, in good faith, reports a hazing incident to a school official or law enforcement is generally immune from civil or criminal liability that might arise from that report. Furthermore, in cases of medical emergencies (like alcohol poisoning), Texas law and many university policies offer amnesty to students who call 911 in good faith, even if underage drinking or hazing was involved. This encourages seeking medical help without fear of legal repercussions for minor infractions.

CRIMINAL VS CIVIL CASES

It’s crucial to distinguish between criminal and civil hazing cases, as they serve different purposes and operate under different legal systems.

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (prosecutors) on behalf of the public. Their aim is to punish offenders for violating laws. In hazing contexts, criminal charges can range from misdemeanor hazing to felony assault, or even manslaughter or negligent homicide if a death occurs. A criminal conviction can result in fines, probation, jail time, or imprisonment.

• Civil Cases: These are brought by the victims (or their surviving family members in wrongful death cases) against the individuals or entities responsible for the harm. The primary goal is to obtain monetary compensation (damages) for the injuries and losses suffered, and to hold the responsible parties accountable. Civil claims often involve:

  • Negligence: Failure to act with reasonable care, leading to injury.
  • Gross Negligence: A conscious and reckless disregard for the safety of others.
  • Wrongful Death: When a person’s death is caused by the negligence or wrongful act of another.
  • Negligent Supervision: Failure of an institution or organization to properly supervise its members or events.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress/Assault/Battery: Intentional acts causing severe emotional or physical harm.

An important point for Austin County citizens to understand is that criminal and civil cases can proceed independently. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for filing a civil lawsuit, and vice-versa. An experienced legal team can navigate both of these paths.

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

Beyond state law, federal regulations also play a significant role in addressing campus hazing, especially for institutions receiving federal funding.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal law is designed to increase transparency and accountability for hazing on college campuses. It requires institutions that receive federal student aid to:

  • Publicly report hazing violations and related disciplinary actions.
  • Provide hazing education and prevention programs to students.
  • Maintain and make accessible aggregate data on hazing incidents.
    The goal is to create a clearer picture of hazing activity (required by 2026), making it easier for Austin County families to research the safety records of potential universities and organizations nationwide.

• Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in education programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance. When hazing involves:

  • Sexual harassment or assault.
  • Gender-based humiliation or discrimination.
  • Or any form of hostile environment based on sex,
    Title IX obligations are triggered. This requires universities to investigate, take action to prevent recurrence, and address the effects of the hazing. Forcing individuals into sexualized acts, undressing them, or subjecting them to gender-based taunts often falls under Title IX.

• Clery Act (Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act): This law requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. While not directly targeted at hazing, incidents like assault, date rape, alcohol violations, or drug offenses that occur during hazing activities must be reported in a school’s annual security report. This contributes to the overall picture of campus safety and can provide crucial data for legal cases.

WHO CAN BE LIABLE IN A CIVIL HAZING LAWSUIT

Identifying responsible parties is a complex but crucial aspect of hazing litigation. In civil lawsuits, multiple individuals and entities may be named as defendants, reflecting the layers of complicity and responsibility within hazing incidents.

• Individual Students: These are the members who directly planned, encouraged, or carried out the hazing acts. This includes those who supplied alcohol, physically assaulted a victim, or failed to call for help in an emergency. Leaders of the new member process, chapter officers, and any student involved in the hazing can be held personally liable.

• Local Chapter / Organization: The fraternity/sorority chapter itself (e.g., the local Pi Kappa Alpha chapter at Texas A&M) can be sued as a distinct legal entity. This includes its officers and members who were aware of the hazing and failed to stop it or report it.

• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters (e.g., the national offices of Sigma Alpha Epsilon or Pi Kappa Phi) can be held liable. This is often based on theories of negligent supervision, failure to enforce their own anti-hazing policies, or turning a blind eye to a pattern of hazing across their chapters. If the national organization knew or should have known about hazing within a chapter and failed to take adequate preventive action, they can be held responsible.

• University or Governing Board: The university (e.g., University of Houston, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, Texas A&M) or its governing board (like the University of Houston System Board of Regents) can be sued. This often involves claims of:

  • Negligent Supervision: Failing to adequately oversee student organizations.
  • Deliberate Indifference: Knowing about hazing and doing nothing to stop it.
  • Failure to Enforce Policies: Having anti-hazing policies but consistently failing to enforce them.
  • Premises Liability: If hazing occurred on university property under unsafe conditions.
    For public universities in Texas, sovereign immunity can pose a challenge, though exceptions exist for gross negligence or Title IX violations. Private universities typically have fewer governmental immunity protections.

• Third Parties: Other entities can sometimes be drawn into hazing lawsuits:

  • Property Owners/Landlords: If hazing occurred at an off-campus house where the owner knew or should have known about dangerous activities but did nothing.
  • Alcohol Providers: Bars, stores, or individuals who illegally provided alcohol to minors, contributing to a hazing incident, can face dram shop liability in Texas.
  • Security Companies or Event Organizers: If they were hired to supervise an event and failed to prevent hazing.

The specific combination of defendants will depend on the unique facts of each case. An experienced hazing attorney understands how to identify all potentially liable parties and build a comprehensive case for accountability.

NATIONAL HAZING CASE PATTERNS (ANCHOR STORIES)

The headlines often focus on the local tragedies, but a closer look reveals disturbing national patterns in hazing incidents. Every major hazing death or catastrophic injury serves as a grim lesson, often leading to legal precedents and legislative changes that affect how hazing cases are handled and prosecuted, including in Texas. These anchor stories demonstrate the severe consequences of unbridled hazing and the determined efforts by families to seek justice, often against powerful institutions.

ALCOHOL POISONING & DEATH PATTERN

The single most common and deadly form of hazing involves forced or excessive alcohol consumption. These cases often share a tragic confluence of factors: immense peer pressure, rapid consumption of high-proof alcohol, and a deadly delay in seeking medical attention due to fear of repercussions.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): The death of 19-year-old Timothy Piazza shocked the nation and ignited a nationwide conversation about hazing. On “bid acceptance” night, Timothy was forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol. Security cameras within the fraternity house captured the horrific hours that followed: Timothy suffering multiple falls, including one down a flight of stairs, resulting in a traumatic brain injury. Despite his obvious distress and repeated falls, fraternity members delayed calling 911 for nearly 12 hours, an egregious act of negligence driven by a desire to cover up the hazing. The ensuing criminal investigation led to multiple charges against 18 fraternity members, including involuntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, and hazing. In the shadow of this tragedy, Pennsylvania enacted the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law, one of the toughest in the nation, and Beta Theta Pi’s chapter was permanently banned from Penn State. For Austin County families, this case underscores the lethal combinaton of forced alcohol, physical injury, and a culture of silence.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (November 2017): Just months after the Piazza tragedy, 20-year-old Andrew Coffey died in a similar manner following a “Big Brother Night” initiation. Pledges, including Andrew, were given bottles of hard liquor (often called a “handle”) and expected to consume them. Andrew died from acute alcohol poisoning. Multiple members were prosecuted, and while most pled guilty to misdemeanor hazing, the incident led to a temporary suspension of all Greek life at FSU and fueled a statewide anti-hazing movement in Florida. The Coffey family filed a wrongful death lawsuit, with terms remaining confidential. This case is a stark reminder that even with national scrutiny, the pattern of lethal alcohol hazing persists. This is especially relevant in Texas, where Pi Kappa Phi chapters exist at universities across the state, including at the University of Houston, where Attorney911 is currently litigating a significant hazing case against Pi Kappa Phi.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (September 2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died with a blood-alcohol content of 0.495% – more than six times the legal limit for driving. The cause was acute alcohol intoxication during a ritual known as “Bible study,” where pledges were made to drink if they answered questions incorrectly. Max’s death led to the enactment of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, which upgraded hazing to a felony offense in cases of severe injury or death. One fraternity member was convicted of negligent homicide, and the family later settled civil lawsuits. For Texas families, the Gruver case illustrates how seemingly innocuous “games” can turn deadly and how legislative change directly results from public and family pressure.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (March 2021): The tragic death of Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, further intensified national calls for hazing reform. During a “Big/Little” night, Stone was reportedly forced to consume a liter of Jameson Irish Whiskey. He was later found unresponsive and died from alcohol poisoning three days later. A criminal investigation led to charges against multiple fraternity members, with some receiving convictions for hazing-related offenses. The Foltz family, through litigation, reached an impressive $10 million settlement in 2023, divided between Pi Kappa Alpha national (approximately $7 million) and Bowling Green State University (approximately $3 million). This case not only highlighted the continued danger of alcohol hazing but also demonstrated that universities, even public ones, are willing to settle rather than face a trial given the public outrage and clear negligence. Ohio, like Louisiana, subsequently strengthened its anti-hazing laws with Collin’s Law.

PHYSICAL & RITUALIZED HAZING PATTERN

Not all hazing deaths involve alcohol. Some tragic events highlight brutal physical rituals, often cloaked in secrecy and “tradition,” that strip victims of their dignity and their lives.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (December 2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old pledge, died during a “crossing over” ritual at a remote off-campus retreat in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. Blindfolded and wearing a heavy backpack, he was repeatedly tackled (a ritual called the “glass ceiling”) by fraternity members. He sustained a traumatic brain injury but for crucial hours, members delayed calling 911, attempting to cover up the incident. In a landmark ruling, the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and four individuals received jail sentences. Pennsylvania also banned Pi Delta Psi from operating in the state for 10 years and imposed a significant fine. This case established a critical legal precedent that national organizations can be held criminally liable for the actions of their local chapters, even when hazing occurs at an off-campus, third-party location. For Texas families, this underscores that “off-campus” doesn’t mean “off-limits” for legal accountability.

ATHLETIC PROGRAM HAZING & ABUSE

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; athletic programs, with their intense loyalty and competitive environments, can also foster dangerous hazing.

• Northwestern University Football Scandal (2023–2025): In a recent and high-profile series of events, former Northwestern football players came forward with allegations of widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. This included forced sexual acts, racial taunts, and physical punishments. The scandal led to the firing of long-time head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who subsequently filed a wrongful-termination lawsuit against the university (settled confidentially in August 2025). Multiple players have also filed lawsuits against Northwestern and various coaching staff. This ongoing situation demonstrates that hazing is a pervasive issue that can infiltrate even elite athletic programs, regardless of their public image, and highlights the potential for widespread institutional liability. The case resonated in Austin County and across Texas, where collegiate athletics are deeply embedded in our culture.

WHAT THESE CASES MEAN FOR TEXAS FAMILIES

These national anchor stories reveal critical common threads and profound implications for Texans facing hazing:

• Predictable Patterns: The recurring scenarios (forced drinking, physical brutality, humiliation, and deliberate delays in medical care) demonstrate that these are not isolated incidents but predictable patterns of behavior that are often known to national organizations and sometimes to universities. This “pattern evidence” is vital in establishing foreseeability in civil lawsuits.
• Legislative and Legal Impact: Each of these tragedies spurred legislative action, creating stronger anti-hazing laws, often with felony provisions, and contributing to the legal framework used nationwide.
• Multi-Million Dollar Accountability: The significant settlements and jury verdicts in these cases (e.g., the $10 million settlement for Stone Foltz, the $14 million settlement in the David Bogenberger case, and the $12.6 million verdict for Chad Meredith’s family) show that courts and juries are willing to impose massive financial penalties to hold negligent organizations and institutions accountable.
• Austin County families are not immune to these issues simply because they live in Texas. Students from our community attend these very universities, and the chapters operating there are linked to these national organizational histories. The lessons learned from these cases across the country are directly applicable to building strong hazing claims in Texas courts.

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

For Austin County families, the concerns about hazing often hit close to home, particularly when considering Texas’s major universities. While specific incidents vary by campus, the underlying patterns of power, tradition, and secrecy remain. We will examine the environment at five key Texas institutions, highlighting both their official stances and documented challenges.

UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON (UH)

The University of Houston stands as a vibrant, diverse urban campus, enrolling tens of thousands of students. It serves as a major draw for students from Austin County and the wider Houston metropolitan area, many of whom choose to live on campus or commute from nearby communities. UH boasts a lively Greek life scene, with numerous fraternities, sororities, and other student organizations. This bustling environment, unfortunately, also presents fertile ground for hazing.

CAMPUS & CULTURE SNAPSHOT

UH is a large public research university located in the heart of Houston, a city often considered a primary destination for Austin County graduates. It is a mix of residential and commuter students, with a significant percentage of first-generation college students. Its Greek system is substantial, including Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural chapters, alongside various other student groups and traditions. The fast-paced urban environment can sometimes lead to hazing going unnoticed amidst the larger city activity, compared to more secluded campuses.

OFFICIAL HAZING POLICY & REPORTING CHANNELS

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, prohibiting any activity that endangers a student’s mental or physical health for the purpose of affiliation with a student organization. UH’s policy explicitly covers acts occurring both on and off campus, and condemns forced consumption of alcohol/food/drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and mental distress. UH provides multiple reporting channels through its Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, and its University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). The university also often publishes information related to student organization conduct violations online, though its public hazing violation reporting may not be as detailed as some other Texas institutions.

SELECTED DOCUMENTED INCIDENTS & RESPONSES

The University of Houston has had its share of hazing allegations and incidents. A significant case involves the Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) fraternity in 2016, where pledges allegedly endured sleep and food deprivation during a multi-day event. One student involved reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen, an extremely severe injury, after being slammed or pushed onto a surface. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and was ultimately suspended by the university.

Attorney911 is currently representing Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston, its Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, its housing corporation, and 13 individuals involved in alleged hazing. This pivotal case unfolded in late 2025, revealing harrowing details:

• Bermudez, a transfer student and pledge, was forced to carry a degrading “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms, a sex toy, and nicotine devices, with threats of punishment for non-compliance.
• Hazing included forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, immediately followed by sprints.
• He was sprayed with a hose in a manner “similar to waterboarding” and subjected to threats of actual waterboarding.
• Mandatory, hours-long physical “workouts” at Yellowstone Boulevard Park, including over 100 push-ups and 500 squats on November 3, 2025, left him unable to stand.
• After this intense physical abuse, Bermudez developed severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, indicated by his urine turning brown. He required a four-day hospitalization and faces ongoing risks of permanent kidney damage.
• The Pi Kappa Phi national organization suspended the Beta Nu chapter on November 6, 2025, which then voted to surrender its charter on November 14, permanently shutting down.

Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, famously stated, “His urine was brown,” highlighting the severity of Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis, and added, “We’re almost in 2026. This has to stop.”

(Sources: 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/, https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/, https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/)

HOW A UH HAZING CASE MIGHT PROCEED

For Austin County residents, if a hazing incident were to occur at UH, the legal process would likely involve the Houston Police Department or UHPD for criminal investigations, and civil suits would be filed in Harris County courts. Due to the high-profile nature of cases like Bermudez v. UH, there is increased scrutiny on such incidents. Potential defendants could include the individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and potentially the university and housing corporation if their negligence contributed to the harm.

WHAT UH STUDENTS & PARENTS SHOULD DO

• Familiarize yourselves with UH’s detailed anti-hazing policy available on their website.
• Utilize UH’s anonymous reporting options if you witness or suspect hazing, prioritizing safety.
• Keep detailed records of any communication with university officials regarding hazing concerns.
• For Austin County families, be aware that while UH provides some public discipline records, they might not be as exhaustive as other Texas universities.
• If hazing occurs, contact an attorney skilled in Houston-based hazing cases to help navigate local jurisdiction and potentially gain access to university and fraternity records.

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

Texas A&M University in College Station holds a special place in the hearts of many Texans, including families from Austin County. Known for its deep-rooted traditions, fierce loyalty, and the iconic Corps of Cadets, A&M attracts a large, dedicated student body. This vibrant culture, while celebrated, can sometimes inadvertently provide cover for hazing activities within its Greek life and other student organizations.

CAMPUS & CULTURE SNAPSHOT

Located approximately 90 miles northwest of Austin County, Texas A&M is a prominent destination for families from our region. With one of the largest student populations in the nation, A&M’s campus culture is rich with history, rituals, and a strong sense of community, epitomized by the Corps of Cadets. Greek life is also a significant presence, alongside numerous competitive clubs and student groups. The blend of military-style tradition and general student life sets a unique backdrop for potential hazing issues.

OFFICIAL HAZING POLICY & REPORTING CHANNELS

Texas A&M prohibits hazing both on and off campus, clearly defining it as any intentional or reckless act that endangers mental or physical health for affiliation with an organization. The university emphasizes its “zero-tolerance” policy on hazing and encourages reporting through its Division of Student Affairs, Student Conduct Office, and the University Police Department (UPD). Texas A&M also publishes a “Hazing Review” report online, detailing confirmed violations and disciplinary actions taken against student organizations.

SELECTED DOCUMENTED INCIDENTS & RESPONSES

Texas A&M has faced multiple hazing allegations across its diverse student body. The Corps of Cadets has, over the years, been at the center of several incidents. A lawsuit filed in 2023 alleged degrading hazing practices within the Corps, including forced simulated sexual acts and a “roasted pig” pose where a cadet was bound between beds with an apple in his mouth. The university, in these instances, often states it handles such matters through its internal conduct processes.

More recently, a particularly disturbing incident involved Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) around 2021. Pledges alleged they were subjected to strenuous physical workouts and then had a mixture of substances, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns that required emergency medical treatment and skin graft surgeries. The pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million, leading to the chapter’s suspension by the university for two years. As discussed in our national section, SAE nationally has faced a traumatic brain injury lawsuit at the University of Alabama and other serious hazing issues.

Another tragic incident in Texas A&M history that, while not traditional hazing, raised questions about student-led, high-risk group activities was the Aggie Bonfire collapse in 1999, which killed 12 students and injured 27. Multiple lawsuits followed, and settlements exceeded $6 million. This event underscored the immense responsibility of student leadership and institutional oversight when traditions go dangerously wrong.

HOW A TEXAS A&M HAZING CASE MIGHT PROCEED

For Austin County families whose children attend Texas A&M, any hazing case would typically begin with criminal investigations by the College Station Police Department or A&M UPD, and civil lawsuits would proceed in Brazos County courts. The presence of the Corps of Cadets introduces a unique layer of complexity, as military-style training and tradition can sometimes blur the lines into hazing, requiring careful legal analysis.

WHAT TEXAS A&M STUDENTS & PARENTS SHOULD DO

• Review Texas A&M’s “Hazing Review” report for past violations and sanctions.
• Be particularly aware of the unique dynamics within the Corps of Cadets and address any concerns about “tradition” that seems to cross into hazing.
• Document any alleged hazing, especially physical injuries or degrading acts, as these can quickly escalate to severe harm, as seen in the SAE case.
• For Austin County families who send their children to A&M, immediate legal counsel is critical. Experienced attorneys can help navigate the university’s internal processes while preserving all legal options.

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is a flagship institution nestled in the heart of our state’s capital, a city both geographically near and culturally influential to Austin County. UT’s campus culture is known for its academic rigor, vibrant student life, and a strong Greek presence, alongside numerous spirit organizations and long-standing traditions. This dynamic environment, unfortunately, has also been the setting for numerous hazing incidents.

CAMPUS & CULTURE SNAPSHOT

UT Austin, a short distance from Austin County, is a prime choice for our local graduates. It is a large public university with a diverse student body engaging in a wide array of extracurricular activities, from its top-tier Greek system to fiercely competitive spirit groups like the Texas Cowboys and Texas Wranglers. The emphasis on tradition and achievement, while generally positive, can sometimes create pressures that manifest as hazing.

OFFICIAL HAZING POLICY & REPORTING CHANNELS

The University of Texas at Austin has a clear-cut anti-hazing policy that prohibits intentional, knowing, or reckless acts endangering mental or physical health for affiliation with any student organization. UT is notable for its commitment to transparency regarding hazing. It maintains and regularly updates a public online database called “Hazing Violations,” which lists sanctioned organizations, the nature of their violations, and the resulting disciplinary actions, both on and off campus. Reporting is facilitated through the Dean of Students, Student Conduct and Academic Integrity, and UTPD.

SELECTED DOCUMENTED INCIDENTS & RESPONSES

UT Austin’s “Hazing Violations” webpage provides a stark record of ongoing hazing issues. This public transparency is critical for Austin County families seeking to understand specific risks. Examples frequently listed include incidents involving:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) in 2023, where new members were allegedly directed to consume significant amounts of milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, actions the university deemed hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Various other Greek organizations and spirit groups have been sanctioned for alcohol-related hazing, forced physical acts, and degrading initiations. The public violations page frequently shows penalties ranging from educational sanctions to suspensions of Greek privileges, reflecting a persistent challenge in enforcing anti-hazing policies despite good faith efforts.

In a grim historical note that transcends Greek life, a 2018 hazing death involved the Texas Cowboys, a spirit group, where an alumnus died from alcohol poisoning at an initiation event. This incident highlighted the dangers within non-Greek student organizations and led to the group’s suspension. Historically, a Delta Kappa Epsilon (DKE) hazing incident in 1928 resulted in the death of pledge Nolte McElroy from electrocution during a ritual involving a mat charged with electric current, one of the earliest documented hazing fatalities in Texas.

HOW A UT AUSTIN HAZING CASE MIGHT PROCEED

For Austin County residents, a hazing incident at UT Austin would involve criminal investigations by the Austin Police Department or UTPD, with civil lawsuits filed in Travis County courts. The university’s detailed public record of hazing violations is a particular strength for plaintiffs, as it can powerfully demonstrate a pattern of ignored warnings and a lack of effective enforcement, bolstering claims of negligent supervision against the university and national organizations.

WHAT UT AUSTIN STUDENTS & PARENTS SHOULD DO

• Regularly check UT Austin’s “Hazing Violations” webpage before committing to any student organization. This is a vital resource.
• Understand that UT’s transparency, while positive, also indicates the continued prevalence of hazing despite university efforts.
• Document any suspected hazing, ensuring to gather evidence related to the specific organization’s history, as a pattern of prior violations strengthens legal recourse.
• For Austin County families, if hazing occurs, promptly engage legal counsel experienced in Travis County litigation and Texas hazing law to leverage the available public information and ensure a thorough investigation.

SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY (SMU)

Southern Methodist University (SMU), located in Dallas, represents a prestigious private institution that attracts students from affluent communities, including many from Austin County. Its campus is renowned for its academic programs, beautiful architecture, and a highly active Greek life that plays a major role in its social fabric. The exclusivity and strong traditions within these organizations, however, sometimes obscure hazing activities from public scrutiny.

CAMPUS & CULTURE SNAPSHOT

For Austin County families considering SMU, the university’s reputation as a top-tier private institution is appealing. Its location in a major metropolitan area like Dallas offers unique opportunities, but also means that off-campus Greek life activities can occur without immediate university oversight. SMU is known for its competitive social scene, where joining a fraternity or sorority is often seen as integral to the “college experience.”

OFFICIAL HAZING POLICY & REPORTING CHANNELS

SMU maintains an explicit anti-hazing policy, prohibiting all forms of hazing both on and off campus. The policy aligns with Texas law, covering acts that endanger mental or physical health for membership. SMU utilizes various reporting mechanisms, including its Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, and provides anonymous reporting options through platforms like “Real Response.” Due to its private status, SMU’s internal disciplinary records and investigation details are generally less publicly transparent than those of public Texas universities.

SELECTED DOCUMENTED INCIDENTS & RESPONSES

While SMU does not maintain a public hazing violations database comparable to UT Austin’s, the university has publicly acknowledged and sanctioned various Greek organizations for hazing over the years. A notable incident involved the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity in 2017. Following allegations of new members being actively paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and deprived of sleep, the chapter was suspended. Penalties included restrictions on recruiting for several years, effectively crippling the chapter’s operations. Such incidents, while addressed internally, underscore the persistent challenges SMU faces with hazing, despite its policies.

HOW AN SMU HAZING CASE MIGHT PROCEED

For Austin County families whose children attend SMU, a hazing incident would likely involve criminal investigations by the Dallas Police Department. Civil lawsuits challenging hazing at SMU would typically be filed in Dallas County courts. As a private institution, SMU does not have the same sovereign immunity protections as public universities, potentially making it a more direct target for civil litigation. However, the lack of public disciplinary records may necessitate more extensive discovery efforts in a lawsuit to uncover past patterns of misconduct.

WHAT SMU STUDENTS & PARENTS SHOULD DO

• Be proactive in understanding SMU’s hazing policies and the anonymous reporting systems available.
• Recognize that the private nature of SMU means less public visibility into specific hazing incidents, placing a greater burden on families to document and report.
• If you suspect or confirm hazing, preserve all evidence (especially digital communications) as quickly as possible, as internal university investigations may not immediately share details due to privacy concerns.
• Austin County families engaging with SMU should be prepared to seek experienced legal counsel immediately if hazing occurs, to ensure thorough investigation and maximize their legal standing.

BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

Baylor University, a private Christian university in Waco, holds a unique position among Texas institutions, drawing many students from Austin County who seek a faith-based educational environment combined with strong academics and spirited athletics. Baylor’s cultural identity, deeply entwined with its Christian mission, shapes its approach to student conduct, including hazing, which often comes with high expectations for ethical behavior.

CAMPUS & CULTURE SNAPSHOT

Located approximately 1-2 hours north of Austin County, Baylor is a popular destination for families from our region. The university’s strong emphasis on community, faith, and traditional values means that its Greek life and other student organizations are expected to operate within a specific ethical framework. However, this high expectation does not always inoculate against hazing, as the desire for membership and loyalty can sometimes override stated values.

OFFICIAL HAZING POLICY & REPORTING CHANNELS

Baylor University strictly prohibits hazing, articulating a zero-tolerance policy in line with Texas law. Its policies cover all student organizations, whether officially recognized or not, and any activities that endanger mental, physical, or emotional well-being. Baylor uses its Student Conduct Administration as the primary channel for reporting and investigating hazing. Due to its private university status, detailed administrative reports and disciplinary actions are not always made public, similar to SMU.

SELECTED DOCUMENTED INCIDENTS & RESPONSES

Baylor University has, in recent years, garnered significant national attention for institutional failures related to student safety and conduct, particularly stemming from a major sexual assault scandal that led to the firing of top administrators and coaches. This history of oversight challenges colors any discussion of hazing at Baylor, as it highlights systemic issues in managing student conduct and protecting vulnerable individuals.

Specific hazing incidents at Baylor have also come to light. In 2020, the Baylor baseball team faced a hazing scandal that resulted in the suspension of 14 players. While specific details of the hazing were not fully disclosed by the private university, the widespread suspensions indicated significant violations of university policy.

Historically, in 1967, a hazing incident involving the Baylor Chamber of Commerce, a student social club, resulted in the death of John E. Clifton from choking on a foul concoction and laxatives. Although the incident was officially ruled an accident at the time, it underscored the dangers of “initiation” rituals and led to the university’s then-president banning “physical” hazing.

These incidents demonstrate that despite Baylor’s strong ethical framework and stated “zero tolerance,” hazing can persist, raising questions about accountability and enforcement.

HOW A BAYLOR HAZING CASE MIGHT PROCEED

For Austin County families dealing with a hazing incident at Baylor, criminal investigations would fall under the Waco Police Department’s jurisdiction. Civil lawsuits against Baylor often involve meticulous investigation into institutional practices, particularly given its history of grappling with student conduct issues. As a private university, Baylor does not shield itself with sovereign immunity, making it a direct party for negligence claims in McLennan County courts.

WHAT BAYLOR STUDENTS & PARENTS SHOULD DO

• Understand that Baylor’s private nature means less transparency in its disciplinary actions compared to public institutions. This makes independent documentation and legal counsel even more critical.
• Be acutely aware of the university’s commitments to student safety in light of its past scandals. Any hazing incident can open a broader inquiry into whether the university has truly reformed its oversight processes.
• Families in Austin County should prioritize documenting any hazing and consulting immediately with an attorney experienced in litigation against private universities, who understands how to leverage discovery to uncover internal records of misconduct.

COMPLETE TEXAS UNIVERSITY DIRECTORY

Attorney911 tracks every higher education institution in Texas. For reference:

• Abilene Christian University | Abilene, Taylor County | Private Non-Profit
• Amberton University | Garland, Dallas County | Private Non-Profit
• American College of Acupuncture and Oriental Med | Houston, Harris County | Private For-Profit
• Angelo State University | San Angelo, Tom Green County | Public
• Arlington Baptist University | Arlington, Tarrant County | Private Non-Profit
• AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine | Austin, Travis County | Private For-Profit
• Austin College | Sherman, Grayson County | Private Non-Profit
• Austin Community College District | Austin, Travis County | Public University
• Austin Graduate School of Theology | Austin, Travis County | Private Non-Profit
• Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary | Austin, Travis County | Private Non-Profit
• Baptist Health System School of Health Professions | San Antonio, Bexar County | Private For-Profit
• Baptist Missionary Association Theological Seminary | Jacksonville, Cherokee County | Private Non-Profit
• Baptist University of the Americas | San Antonio, Bexar County | Private Non-Profit
• Baylor College of Medicine | Houston, Harris County | Private Non-Profit
• Baylor University | Waco, McLennan County | Private Non-Profit
• Brazosport College | Lake Jackson, Brazoria County | Public University
• Brite Divinity School | Fort Worth, Tarrant County | Private Non-Profit
• Center for Advanced Studies On Puerto Rico and the Caribbean | San Juan, San Juan Municipio | Private Non-Profit
• Chamberlain University-Texas | Houston, Harris County | Private For-Profit
• South Plains College | Levelland, Hockley County | Public University
• Christ Mission College | San Antonio, Bexar County | Private Non-Profit
• Collin County Community College District | McKinney, Collin County | Public University
• College of Biblical Studies-Houston | Houston, Harris County | Private Non-Profit
• College of the Mainland | Texas City, Galveston County | Public University
• Concordia University Texas | Austin, Travis County | Private Non-Profit
• Criswell College | Dallas, Dallas County | Private Non-Profit
• Dallas Baptist University | Dallas, Dallas County | Private Non-Profit
• Dallas Christian College | Dallas, Dallas County | Private Non-Profit
• Dallas College | Dallas, Dallas County | Public University
• Dallas Theological Seminary | Dallas, Dallas County | Private Non-Profit
• Del Mar College | Corpus Christi, Nueces County | Public University
• DeVry University-Texas | Irving, Dallas County | Private For-Profit
• East Texas Baptist University | Marshall, Harrison County | Private Non-Profit
• Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest | Austin, Travis County | Private Non-Profit
• Galen Health Institutes-Austin Campus | Austin, Williamson County | Private For-Profit
• Galen Health Institutes-Houston | Houston, Harris County | Private For-Profit
• Galen College of Nursing-San Antonio | San Antonio, Bexar County | Private For-Profit
• Galveston College | Galveston, Galveston County | Public University
• Gemini School of Visual Arts & Communication | Austin, Williamson County | Private For-Profit
• Grace School of Theology | Conroe, Montgomery County | Private Non-Profit
• Grayson College | Denison, Grayson County | Public University
• Hallmark University | San Antonio, Bexar County | Private Non-Profit
• Hardin-Simmons University | Abilene, Taylor County | Private Non-Profit
• Houston Baptist University | Houston, Harris County | Private Non-Profit
• Houston Graduate School of Theology | Houston, Harris County | Private Non-Profit
• Huston-Tillotson University | Austin, Travis County | Private Non-Profit
• Jarvis Christian University | Hawkins, Wood County | Private Non-Profit
• Laredo College | Laredo, Webb County | Public University
• LeTourneau University | Longview, Gregg County | Private Non-Profit
• Lone Star College System | The Woodlands, Montgomery County | Public University
• Lubbock Christian University | Lubbock, Lubbock County | Private Non-Profit
• Midwestern State University | Wichita Falls, Wichita County | Public University
• Midland College | Midland, Midland County | Public University
• McMurry University | Abilene, Taylor County | Private Non-Profit
• Messenger College | Bedford, Tarrant County | Private Non-Profit
• North American University | Stafford, Fort Bend County | Private Non-Profit
• Oblate School of Theology | San Antonio, Bexar County | Private Non-Profit
• Odessa College | Odessa, Ector County | Public University
• Our Lady of the Lake University | San Antonio, Bexar County | Private Non-Profit
• Parker University | Dallas, Dallas County | Private Non-Profit
• Paul Quinn College | Dallas, Dallas County | Private Non-Profit
• Prairie View A & M University | Prairie View, Waller County | Public University
• Remington College-Dallas Campus | Dallas, Dallas County | Private Non-Profit
• Remington College-Fort Worth Campus | Fort Worth, Tarrant County | Private Non-Profit
• Remington College-North Houston Campus | Houston, Harris County | Private Non-Profit
• Rice University | Houston, Harris County | Private Non-Profit
• RCCGNA Seminary | Greenville, Hunt County | Private Non-Profit
• San Antonio College | San Antonio, Bexar County | Public University
• San Jacinto Community College | Pasadena, Harris County | Public University
• Saint Edward’s University | Austin, Travis County | Private Non-Profit
• Schreiner University | Kerrville, Kerr County | Private Non-Profit
• South Texas College | McAllen, Hidalgo County | Public University
• South Texas College of Law Houston | Houston, Harris County | Private Non-Profit
• Southern Methodist University | Dallas, Dallas County | Private Non-Profit
• Southwestern Adventist University | Keene, Johnson County | Private Non-Profit
• Southwestern Assemblies of God University | Waxahachie, Ellis County | Private Non-Profit
• Southwestern Christian College | Terrell, Kaufman County | Private Non-Profit
• Southwestern University | Georgetown, Williamson County | Private Non-Profit
• Stephen F Austin State University | Nacogdoches, Nacogdoches County | Public University
• Strayer University-Texas | Farmers Branch, Dallas County | Private For-Profit
• Sul Ross State University | Alpine, Brewster County | Public University
• Tarleton State University | Stephenville, Erath County | Public University
• Texas A & M International University | Laredo, Webb County | Public University
• Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, Brazos County | Public University
• Texas A & M University-Commerce | Commerce, Hunt County | Public University
• Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi, Nueces County | Public University
• Texas A & M University-Kingsville | Kingsville, Kleberg County | Public University
• Texas A & M University-San Antonio | San Antonio, Bexar County | Public University
• Texas A & M University-Texarkana | Texarkana, Bowie County | Public University
• Texas A & M University-Central Texas | Killeen, Bell County | Public University
• Texas A & M University-System Office | College Station, Brazos County | Public University
• Texas Chiropractic College Foundation Inc | Pasadena, Harris County | Private Non-Profit
• Texas Christian University | Fort Worth, Tarrant County | Private Non-Profit
• Texas College | Tyler, Smith County | Private Non-Profit
• Texas Health and Science University | Austin, Travis County | Private For-Profit
• Texas Southern University | Houston, Harris County | Public University
• Texas State University | San Marcos, Hays County | Public University
• Texas Tech University | Lubbock, Lubbock County | Public University
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center | Lubbock, Lubbock County | Public University
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-El Paso | El Paso, El Paso County | Public University
• Texas Tech University System Administration | Lubbock, Lubbock County | Public University
• Texas Woman’s University | Denton, Denton County | Public University
• The Art Institute of Austin | Bastrop, Bastrop County | Private For-Profit
• The Art Institute of Houston | Houston, Harris County | Private For-Profit
• The Art Institute of San Antonio | San Antonio, Bexar County | Private For-Profit
• The College of Health Care Professions-Northwest | Houston, Harris County | Private For-Profit
• The King’s University | Southlake, Tarrant County | Private Non-Profit
• The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston | Galveston, Galveston County | Public University
• The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center | Houston, Harris County | Public University
• The University of Texas Permian Basin | Odessa, Ector County | Public University
• The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley | Edinburg, Hidalgo County | Public University
• The University of Texas System Office | Austin, Travis County | Public University
• The University of Texas at Arlington | Arlington, Tarrant County | Public University
• The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, Travis County | Public University
• The University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, Dallas County | Public University
• The University of Texas at El Paso | El Paso, El Paso County | Public University
• The University of Texas at San Antonio | San Antonio, Bexar County | Public University
• The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston | Houston, Harris County | Public University
• The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio | San Antonio, Bexar County | Public University
• The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center | Dallas, Dallas County | Public University
• The University of Texas at Tyler | Tyler, Smith County | Public University
• Trinity University | San Antonio, Bexar County | Private Non-Profit
• Tyler Junior College | Tyler, Smith County | Public University
• University of Dallas | Irving, Dallas County | Private Non-Profit
• University of Houston | Houston, Harris County | Public University
• University of Houston-Clear Lake | Houston, Harris County | Public University
• University of Houston-Downtown | Houston, Harris County | Public University
• University of Houston-System Administration | Houston, Harris County | Public University
• University of Houston-Victoria | Victoria, Victoria County | Public University
• University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | Belton, Bell County | Private Non-Profit
• University of North Texas | Denton, Denton County | Public University
• University of North Texas at Dallas | Dallas, Dallas County | Public University
• University of North Texas Health Science Center | Fort Worth, Tarrant County | Public University
• University of North Texas System | Dallas, Dallas County | Public University
• University of Phoenix-Texas | Houston, Harris County | Private For-Profit
• University of St Thomas | Houston, Harris County | Private Non-Profit
• University of the Incarnate Word | San Antonio, Bexar County | Private Non-Profit
• Wade College | Dallas, Dallas County | Private For-Profit
• Wayland Baptist University | Plainview, Hale County | Private Non-Profit
• Weatherford College | Weatherford, Parker County | Public University
• West Texas A & M University | Canyon, Randall County | Public University
• Western Technical College | El Paso, El Paso County | Private For-Profit
• Western Technical College | El Paso, El Paso County | Private For-Profit
• Wiley College | Marshall, Harrison County | Private Non-Profit

FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES: CAMPUS-SPECIFIC + NATIONAL HISTORIES

For Austin County families, understanding the landscape of Greek life at Texas universities requires looking beyond local chapter activities to the national organizations they belong to. When hazing occurs at a local chapter, the national organization’s history, policies, and prior incidents become critically relevant. The patterns of past hazing across different chapters of a national fraternity or sorority can be powerful evidence of foreseeability, demonstrating that the national body knew or should have known the risks associated with certain “traditions.”

WHY NATIONAL HISTORIES MATTER

Many fraternities and sororities with chapters at Texas universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor are part of large national organizations. These national headquarters often:

• Develop extensive anti-hazing policies and risk management manuals. These policies are generally not created in a vacuum; they are often a direct response to prior hazing deaths, severe injuries, and multi-million-dollar lawsuits at other chapters nationwide.
• Collect dues, provide oversight, and offer training to local chapters. This relationship implies a degree of responsibility for the conduct (and misconduct) of those chapters.
• Are aware of common hazing “scripts” across their chapters—whether it’s forced drinking games, physical exercises, or humiliating rituals.

When a local Texas chapter repeats a hazing behavior that has previously led to tragedy or legal action in another state, it strengthens arguments that the national organization had prior notice of the danger and failed to take adequate steps to prevent it. This “pattern evidence” is a cornerstone of hazing litigation, proving that the risk was not unforeseen.

ORGANIZATION MAPPING (SYNTHESIZED)

Below, we highlight some key national Greek organizations with a presence at Texas universities and their documented national hazing histories. This is not an exhaustive list, but it illustrates how national patterns can play out on our local campuses.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike): This fraternity has a history of severe hazing incidents, particularly involving alcohol.

  • Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University, 2021): Pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume a liter of whiskey during “Big/Little” night. The family received a $10 million settlement from the national organization and the university.
  • David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois University, 2012): Pledge died from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event, leading to a $14 million settlement for his family.
  • Pike chapters have been present at Texas universities, and these national incidents establish a clear pattern of foreseeable risk related to alcohol hazing.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): SAE has been dubbed “America’s deadliest fraternity” by some media outlets due to a disproportionate number of hazing-related deaths and severe injuries across its chapters.

  • University of Alabama (ongoing litigation): A pledge allegedly suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual, leading to a fraud, negligence, and assault lawsuit against the fraternity.
  • Texas A&M University (2021): Pledges suffered severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts after industrial-strength cleaner, eggs, and spit were poured on them during forced physical activity. The pledges sued for $1 million, demonstrating the extreme and dangerous forms hazing can take.
  • University of Texas at Austin (2024): A student alleged assault by fraternity members at a party, resulting in severe injuries, highlighting instances of physical violence and a chapter already under suspension for prior violations.
  • SAE has chapters at multiple Texas universities, making their national history particularly relevant for Austin County families. The national organization notably tried to eliminate pledging entirely in 2014 due to its checkered hazing record.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

  • Maxwell “Max” Gruver (Louisiana State University, 2017): Pledge died from alcohol poisoning during a “Bible study” drinking game. This tragic incident drove the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making felony hazing possible.
  • Phi Delta Theta chapters are found at Texas universities, and their national history of alcohol-related hazing, sometimes disguised as “games,” creates a clear precedent.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

  • Andrew Coffey (Florida State University, 2017): Died from acute alcohol poisoning at a “Big Brother Night,” where pledges were given handles of hard liquor.
  • Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston / Pi Kappa Phi (2025): Attorney911’s active $10 million lawsuit details severe hazing, including forced alcohol, physical abuse (e.g., 500 squats, 100+ push-ups), simulated waterboarding, pledge fanny packs with degrading contents, and resulting rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. This case directly impacts the understanding of Pi Kappa Phi’s conduct within Texas.

• Kappa Alpha Order (KA): With a traditional Southern identity, Kappa Alpha Order has several chapters across Texas universities, including at SMU and Texas A&M.

  • SMU (2017): The local chapter was suspended after allegations of pledges being paddled, forced to drink alcohol, and deprived of sleep.
  • Many national organizations, including KA, consistently face allegations related to traditions and rituals that, when taken too far, cross into hazing.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): This national fraternity has numerous chapters in Texas.

  • College of Charleston (2024): A former pledge alleged physical beatings, forced drug and alcohol consumption, and psychological torment, resulting in a settlement exceeding $10 million for the family. This is one of the largest known hazing settlements, underscoring the severe liability.
  • University of Texas at Arlington (2020): A pledge was hospitalized for alcohol poisoning due to hazing, leading to a negligent supervision lawsuit that settled in 2021.

TIE BACK TO LEGAL STRATEGY

These national patterns significantly impact legal strategies for Austin County families pursuing justice in Texas. They demonstrate that certain hazing rituals are not isolated, spontaneous acts by rebellious chapters but rather recurring behaviors that national organizations have been warned about repeatedly.

• Foreseeability: A history of similar incidents at other chapters of the same national organization makes it difficult for that national body to claim that a new incident was “unforeseeable.” This is a key element in proving negligence.
• Negligent Supervision: Showing a pattern of previous violations can argue that the national organization failed in its duty to adequately supervise its chapters, enforce its policies, or sufficiently punish prior infractions.
• Settlement and Litigation: The massive settlements and verdicts in national hazing cases set financial benchmarks and demonstrate maximum liability. This record arms plaintiffs with significant leverage in negotiations and, if needed, before a jury.
• Insurance Coverage: Lupe Peña, one of Attorney911’s attorneys, with her background as a former insurance defense attorney, understands how national fraternity/university insurance companies try to deny coverage or minimize claims based on these patterns. Our firm is uniquely positioned to counter these tactics.

By connecting specific incidents on Texas campuses to the broader, often tragic, national history of Greek organizations, we highlight a powerful, data-driven legal approach.

COMPLETE TEXAS GREEK ORGANIZATION DIRECTORY

Attorney911 tracks every IRS-registered fraternity and sorority in Texas:

• AGGIE ADPI FAMILY CLUB | EIN: 93-2357531 | CYPRESS, TX
• ALPHA DELTA | EIN: 81-2724215 | MCALLEN, TX
• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON | EIN: 56-2652714 | BEAUMONT, TX
• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON-BETA ALPHA CHAPTER | EIN: 47-3967233 | LUBBOCK, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-2525354 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418666 | KINGSVILLE, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418972 | CORPUS CHRISTI, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5370943 | HOUSTON, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 92-1490845 | HUNTSVILLE, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-5229133 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5381060 | SAN MARCOS, TX
• AGGIE ADPI FAMILY CLUB | EIN: 93-2357531 | CYPRESS, TX
• ALPHA DELTA | EIN: 81-2724215 | MCALLEN, TX
• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON | EIN: 56-2652714 | BEAUMONT, TX
• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON-BETA ALPHA CHAPTER | EIN: 47-3967233 | LUBBOCK, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-2525354 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418666 | KINGSVILLE, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418972 | CORPUS CHRISTI, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5370943 | HOUSTON, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 92-1490845 | HUNTSVILLE, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-5229133 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5381060 | SAN MARCOS, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-2290669 | AMARILLO, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-5229133 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• BETA LAMBDA CHAPTER – ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 99-0483761 | HOUSTON, TX
• BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC | EIN: 46-2267515 | FRISCO, TX
• BETA UPSILON CHI | EIN: 74-2911848 | FORT WORTH, TX
• BUILDING CORPORATION OF DELTA CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA PI | EIN: 74-6047117 | AUSTIN, TX
• CHI EPSILON SIGMA INC | EIN: 45-1677063 | DALLAS, TX
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-0555581 | AUSTIN, TX
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6041410 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• DELTA ALPHA SIGMA MULTICULTURAL SORORITY | EIN: 36-4806998 | DALLAS, TX
• DELTA PHI CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY ALUMNI HOUSING | EIN: 90-0239693 | DALLAS, TX
• DELTA PHI UPSILON FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 80-0209640 | HOUSTON, TX
• DENTON-LEWISVILLE GUIDE RIGHT FOUNDATION | EIN: 86-1205340 | FLOWER MOUND, TX
• EPSILON NU HOUSING CORPORATION | EIN: 23-7359384 | LUBBOCK, TX
• EPSILON PI PHI EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HONOR SOCIETY | EIN: 47-4643399 | ROUND ROCK, TX
• EPSILON TAU CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6053083 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• ETA KAPPA CHAPTER OF SIGMA SIGMA SIGMA HOUSE CORPORATION | EIN: 75-2935462 | FRISCO, TX
• ETA ALPHA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA DELTA SORORITY | EIN: 74-2930349 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• FARM HOUSE FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-1565336 | LUBBOCK, TX
• FIRST COMMAND EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION | EIN: 75-1973894 | FORT WORTH, TX
• FORT WORTH ALUMNI CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 75-2755600 | FORT WORTH, TX
• FRANK HEFLIN FOUNDATION | EIN: 20-3507402 | CANYON, TX
• FRIENDSHIP-WEST MIZPAH FOUNDATION | EIN: 27-1863731 | DALLAS, TX
• FRISCO TX ALUMNI CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI INCORPORATED | EIN: 92-0575785 | FRISCO, TX
• GAMMA PHI DELTA CHRISTIAN FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 74-2893931 | FORT WORTH, TX
• GAMMA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 16-1675890 | THE WOODLANDS, TX
• GA MM A PHI HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA ALPHA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-1283953 | LUBBOCK, TX
• GENTLEMEN OF AGGIE TRADITION | EIN: 88-0537463 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• GULF COAST ALUMNI ET OF OX INC | EIN: 45-2717861 | MEXIA, TX
• HELLENIC PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF TEXAS | EIN: 74-2020182 | HOUSTON, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 46-3831593 | AUSTIN, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 90-0293166 | COLLEGE STATION, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 26-3170920 | DENTON, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 38-3742830 | EL PASO, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 82-0644459 | LUBBOCK, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 35-2335400 | TYLER, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 90-0293167 | VICTORIA, TX
• IOTA ALPHA CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 51-0225632 | ARLINGTON, TX
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY | EIN: 52-1278573 | DALLAS, TX
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 45-3325054 | MANSFIELD, TX
• KAPPA EPSILON CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-1727080 | ARLINGTON, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA – MU GAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 13-3048786 | COLLEGE STATION, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6067776 | FORT WORTH, TX
• LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 74-1130606 | AUSTIN, TX
• LAMBDA ETA CHAPTER CHI ETA PHI SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 75-2273565 | ARLINGTON, TX
• LAMBDA NU GAMMA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 93-2103520 | CONROE, TX
• LAMBDA OMEGA EPSILON SORORITY INC | EIN: 86-1854073 | CONROE, TX
• LELAND COLLEGE PREP PTO | EIN: 47-2160315 | HOUSTON, TX
• NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL NORTH DALLAS SUBURBIA | EIN: 26-4080411 | CARROLLTON, TX
• ONE CHAPTER ONE SHIELD | EIN: 92-1743777 | IOWA COLONY, TX
• OMICRON GAMMA GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 75-2819136 | ARLINGTON, TX
• OMICRON GAMMA SIGMA ALUMNI CHAPTER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 92-1672050 | IRVING, TX
• PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 90-0927378 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• PHI KAPPA PSI TEXAS EPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 45-2729519 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• PHI UPSILON ZETA OF LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-1016658 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• PI KAPPA ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-6064445 | NEDERLAND, TX
• PI KAPPA PHI DELTA OMEGA CHAPTER BUILDING CORPORATION | EIN: 37-1768785 | MISSOURI CITY, TX
• PSY ZETA CHAPTER OF ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 52-1345182 | FORT WORTH, TX
• RHO DELTA CHI NATIONAL BOARD | EIN: 93-4247450 | SUGAR LAND, TX
• REDWINE HONORS PROGRAM STUDENT COUNCIL | EIN: 84-5090974 | WICHITA FALLS, TX
• 9THD BROTHERS KEEPER | EIN: 93-4008573 | ROWLETT, TX
• SIGMA ALPHA OMEGA CHRISTIAN SORORITY INC | EIN: 85-1262394 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 74-6084912 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 75-2609909 | COMMERCE, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 36-4091267 | WACO, TX
• SIGMA LAMBDA ALPHA SORORITY INC | EIN: 90-0956019 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA NU CORPORATION OF OKLAHOMA | EIN: 73-6098935 | COLLEYVILLE, TX
• SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY EPSILON XI CHAPTER | EIN: 74-6084905 | HOUSTON, TX
• SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY ZETA ETA | EIN: 75-6060974 | COMMERCE, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON NEW YORK CHI ALUMNI ASSOCIATION INC | EIN: 26-2710856 | HOUSTON, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON TEXAS GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 91-1981478 | FORT WORTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON TEXAS ETA | EIN: 82-4398421 | RICHMOND, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA | EIN: 83-3053639 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA ALPHA CHI CHAPTER | EIN: 86-3999517 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA ALPHA PSI CHAPTER | EIN: 87-4252223 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 82-3971493 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 20-2203769 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 20-1237505 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 81-4575228 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 26-0805977 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 90-0657756 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 32-0217610 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 46-0766525 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PI FRATERNITY INTERNATIONAL INC | EIN: 31-1207348 | TUSCALOOSA, AL
• SIGMA PI MISSISSIPPI HOUSE CORPORATION | EIN: 37-1866424 | TUSCALOOSA, AL
• SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON – TEXAS SIGMA INCORPORATED | EIN: 88-2755427 | SAN MARCOS, TX
• SOCIETY OF HISPANIC PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS INC | EIN: 76-0221936 | HOUSTON, TX
• SOUTH TEXAS COTILLON INC | EIN: 26-2378154 | BROWNSVILLE, TX
• SOUTHWESTERN REGION OF IOTA PHI LAMBDA SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 51-0194762 | HOUSTON, TX
• SOUTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY | EIN: 74-1016658 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• TEJAS FOUNDATION | EIN: 74-6062730 | AUSTIN, TX
• TEXAS BETA PSI CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA KAPPA SORORITY INC | EIN: 74-6088185 | SHAVANO PARK, TX
• TEXAS KAPPA SIGMA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION INC | EIN: 74-1380362 | FORT WORTH, TX
• TEXAS NU-PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 81-4123811 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• TEXAS RHO CHAPTER OF THE SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-1942292 | WACO, TX
• TEXAS EPSILON UPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 76-0366414 | NEEDVILLE, TX
• THE ETHEL HEDGEMON LYLE FOUNDATION OF TEXAS | EIN: 76-0592907 | SPRING, TX
• THE MU CHAPTER INITIATIVE | EIN: 46-2492817 | TUSCALOOSA, AL
• UPSILON ZETA BUILDING ASSOCIATION OF CHI OMEGA | EIN: 75-2290669 | AMARILLO, TX
• UTSA SIGMA CHI | EIN: 84-2643090 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• ZETA OMICRON ALUMNI ASSOCIATION INC | EIN: 90-0949447 | PONDER, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 61-1562040 | LEWISVILLE, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 52-1345951 | NOLANVILLE, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 52-1346485 | WACO, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED – SIGMA GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 39-2352450 | HOUSTON, TX
• ZETA SIGMA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-2620706 | DALLAS, TX
• ZETA XI PEARLS EDUCATIONAL FUND INC | EIN: 88-3484848 | ROWLETT, TX

BUILDING A CASE: EVIDENCE, DAMAGES, STRATEGY

For Austin County families seeking justice after a hazing incident, understanding how a legal case is built is crucial. Our firm, Attorney911, specializes in these complex cases, knowing that successfully challenging powerful institutions requires meticulous attention to evidence, a deep understanding of damages, and a clear legal strategy.

EVIDENCE

In today’s digital age, hazing cases are increasingly won or lost based on the evidence we can gather. What may seem like trivial bits of information to parents or students can become pivotal in court.

• Digital Communications: These are often the “smoking gun” in modern hazing cases.

  • GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and fraternity-specific apps are commonly used by organizations to coordinate events, issue directives, and communicate expectations (and punishments). These platforms capture the planning, intent, specific demands made, and who was involved. They also show who knew about the hazing and when.
  • Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, and TikTok comments can also reveal crucial details, including requests for degrading acts, evidence of forced activities, or attempts to cover up incidents.
  • Preservation is key: This evidence disappears quickly. We instruct families to screenshot entire conversation threads — showing sender names, timestamps, and sufficient context. Digital forensics can sometimes recover deleted messages, but original screenshots are invaluable. Attorney911’s video “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides essential guidance on how to properly capture and preserve this digital evidence.

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is incredibly powerful.

  • Content filmed by members during hazing events, often initially shared within private group chats, can clearly depict the actions, participants, and victim’s condition.
  • Surveillance footage (from security cameras, Ring/doorbell systems at houses or venues) can capture events leading up to, during, or immediately after a hazing incident.
  • Photos of injuries (bruises, burns, lacerations) with clear dates and contextual elements are vital to document physical harm. Students should take multiple angles and include an object for scale, photographing progression over several days.

• Internal Organization Documents: These documents can reveal the official (and unofficial) inner workings of the organization.

  • Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, and “traditions” lists can contain problematic rituals.
  • Emails or texts from officers planning events or discussing new member activities can show intent or knowledge of hazing.
  • National anti-hazing policies and training materials, when compared against actual practices, can highlight a failure to enforce.

• University Records: Accessing these can uncover patterns of negligence.

  • Prior disciplinary records of the same chapter (hazing violations, probation, suspensions) establish a history of misconduct and the university’s knowledge of it.
  • Incident reports from university police or student conduct offices, as well as Clery Act reports, provide official documentation.
  • Internal university emails among administrators regarding the organization (often obtained through discovery in a lawsuit) can reveal the institution’s awareness or deliberate indifference to ongoing hazing.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the full extent of the harm suffered.

  • Emergency room, hospital, and toxicology reports confirm physical injuries and substance use.
  • Surgery and rehabilitation notes detail the path to recovery.
  • Crucially, psychological evaluations documenting PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation establish the profound mental health impact of hazing.

• Witness Testimony: The accounts of individuals who observed or participated in the hazing are essential.

  • This includes other pledges, members, roommates, Resident Advisors (RAs), coaches, or bystanders.
  • Former members who quit or were expelled can offer invaluable insights into the organization’s culture.

DAMAGES

In hazing cases, damages are designed to compensate victims and their families for the full spectrum of losses. Attorney911 meticulously works to identify and quantify every element of harm.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This category covers all documented and projected healthcare costs.

  • Immediate emergency room visits, ambulance transport, and hospitalization expenses (including ICU stays and surgeries).
  • Ongoing treatments, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and prescription medications.
  • For catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injury or rhabdomyolysis (as seen in the Bermudez case at UH), a life care plan is developed by experts to project lifelong medical and caregiving needs.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing often disrupts a student’s academic and professional future.

  • Missed semesters or forced withdrawals can lead to lost tuition, fees, and delays in graduation.
  • Lost scholarships (academic or athletic), particularly if an injury renders a student unable to participate.
  • For severe injuries that result in permanent disability, an economist calculates the diminished future earning capacity—the difference between what the victim would have earned over their lifetime versus what they are now projected to earn. This can amount to millions of dollars.

• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for subjective but very real suffering.

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the actual pain endured from injuries and any ongoing discomfort.
  • Emotional Distress, Trauma, and Humiliation: This includes the deep psychological impact of hazing, often manifesting as PTSD, depression, severe anxiety, and a loss of personal dignity. These are often supported by psychological evaluations and expert testimony.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to participate in activities, hobbies, and social interactions that once brought joy, reflecting a diminished quality of life.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): Tragically, some hazing incidents result in death. In such cases, surviving family members (parents, spouse, children) can pursue compensation for:

  • Funeral and burial costs.
  • Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided.
  • The profound loss of companionship, love, guidance, and society suffered by the family.
  • The immense grief and emotional suffering of the family members.

• Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious misconduct, courts may award punitive damages. These are not meant to compensate the victim but rather to punish the defendant for reckless, willful, or malicious behavior and to deter similar actions in the future. Punitive damages are often sought when there is a clear pattern of ignored warnings, attempts at cover-up, or conscious indifference to known risks—factors frequently present in hazing cases against national organizations and universities.

ROLE OF DIFFERENT DEFENDANTS AND INSURANCE COVERAGE

Hazing litigation often involves powerful, well-resourced defense teams representing national fraternities, sororities, and universities. These entities typically carry substantial insurance policies to cover liability claims. However, insurers often aggressively try to avoid paying.

• Insurance Disputes: Insurers frequently argue that hazing constitutes “intentional conduct” or “criminal acts,” which are often excluded from standard liability policies. They may also claim that the policy itself does not cover specific defendants or types of incidents.
• Attorney911’s Advantage: Lupe Peña, an associate attorney at Attorney911, brings invaluable insider knowledge to these disputes. As a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), she understands the intricate tactics insurers use to deny coverage, delay claims, and minimize payouts. This allows our firm to anticipate their strategies, effectively counter their arguments, and force them to honor their obligations.
• Identifying All Policies: A crucial part of our strategy is to meticulously identify all potential sources of insurance coverage, from the local chapter’s policy to the national organization’s umbrella policies, and even the homeowners’ policies of individual members. This multi-layered approach ensures no stone is left unturned in securing full compensation for our clients.

STRATEGY

An effective legal strategy in hazing cases is multifaceted, drawing on deep legal expertise, tenacious investigation, and a commitment to advocacy.

• Thorough Investigation: Our process begins with an exhaustive investigation to gather all possible evidence, digital and otherwise. This includes deploying digital forensics experts to recover deleted communications and collaborating with medical professionals to document the full extent of physical and psychological harm.
• Identifying All Liable Parties: We carefully identify every individual and entity that bears responsibility—from the students directly involved to the local chapter, the national organization, and the university.
• Leveraging National Precedents: We consistently use national hazing case patterns (like those involving Pi Kappa Alpha or Sigma Alpha Epsilon) to demonstrate foreseeability, arguing that national bodies were on notice of specific dangers.
• Navigating Criminal and Civil Proceedings: Our firm, with Ralph Manginello’s extensive criminal defense background (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/), is uniquely equipped to advise clients on how criminal hazing charges for individuals involved may intersect with the civil lawsuit for damages.
• Client-Centered Advocacy: We prioritize our client’s well-being, providing clear communication and guidance through every step of the often-challenging legal process. We build cases not just for compensation, but for accountability and to prevent future tragedies.

PRACTICAL GUIDES & FAQS

The moments following a hazing incident can be terrifying and confusing. This section provides immediate, practical advice for students, parents, and witnesses in Austin County and across Texas. Knowing what to do (and what not to do) can significantly impact the outcome of a hazing investigation or lawsuit.

FOR PARENTS

As parents in Austin County, recognizing the subtle and overt signs of hazing can be challenging, but it’s the first step to protecting your child.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be alert to:

  • Unexplained injuries (bruises, burns, cuts) or repeated “accidents” with weak explanations.
  • Extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation, often caused by mandatory late-night activities.
  • Drastic changes in mood or personality, including anxiety, depression, irritability, or social withdrawal from non-Greek friends or family.
  • Obsessive phone use for group chats, coupled with anxiety if a message is missed, indicating constant demands.
  • Sudden secrecy about organization activities, often accompanied by phrases like “I can’t talk about it” or “what happens here stays here.”
  • Significant drops in academic performance due to time commitments.
  • Unexplained financial strain (requests for money for “dues” beyond what was initially advertised, buying things for older members).

• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation with empathy, not judgment. Start with open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with your group? Is everything okay?” Emphasize their safety and well-being above their membership in any organization. Reassure them you will support them, no matter what.

• If Your Child is Hurt:

  • Seek medical attention immediately. Prioritize their health, regardless of fear of “getting in trouble.”
  • Document everything in detail. Take photos of injuries, screenshot any relevant text messages or social media posts, and write down dates, times, and what your child tells you.
  • Save everything. Keep any physical items like damaged clothing or receipts.

• Dealing with the University: If you choose to involve the university, document every interaction. Ask specific questions about prior incidents involving the group and what actions the school took. Understand that the university’s priority may be to protect its own reputation, so proceed carefully.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing or attempting to conceal the incident, it’s time to consult with an experienced hazing attorney. We can advise on the complexities of Texas hazing laws and university policies.

FOR STUDENTS / PLEDGES

If you’re a student in Austin County or anywhere in Texas, and you’re questioning your new member experience, remember: your safety and well-being come first.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself:

  • Am I being forced or pressured to do something I genuinely don’t want to do?
  • Would I be willing to do this if I wasn’t being evaluated for membership?
  • Is this activity dangerous, illegal, or humiliating?
  • Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about activities?
    If the answer is yes to any of these, it is likely hazing, regardless of how others label it as “tradition.”

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: The immense peer pressure to belong, the fear of exclusion, and the power dynamic between new members and older members mean that “consent” in hazing situations is rarely truly voluntary. Texas law (Texas Education Code § 37.155) explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. You have a right to be safe, regardless of any “agreement” you felt pressured to make.

• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the right to leave any organization at any time without fear of retribution. If you feel unsafe, remove yourself from the situation and immediately inform a trusted adult (parent, professor, RA) or campus authority. Contact campus police or 911 if there is immediate danger.

  • Many schools and Texas law offer amnesty for students who call for help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or hazing was involved.

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: If you or a friend are in an emergency due to hazing, prioritize calling for help. Most schools and Texas law provide protections for individuals who report in good faith, especially for medical emergencies. Your primary goal is safety.

FOR FORMER MEMBERS / WITNESSES

If you were involved in or witnessed hazing, coming forward can be incredibly difficult, often accompanied by guilt or fear of retaliation. However, your testimony can be critical to preventing future tragedies.

• Acknowledge that situations are complex. Your earliest priority should be to seek your own legal counsel to understand your rights and potential liabilities.
• Your testimony, whether in university proceedings or legal actions, can be invaluable for victims seeking justice. It may prevent further harm to other students.
• Lawyers can help you navigate the process, ensuring your rights are protected while you assist in holding responsible parties accountable.

CRITICAL MISTAKES THAT CAN DESTROY YOUR CASE

The aftermath of hazing is a critical period where evidence can be lost forever. Austin County families must be aware of common pitfalls. Attorney911’s video, “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY), outlines many of these:

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

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

   • What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This looks like an intentional cover-up, can be obstruction of justice, and makes proving a case nearly impossible.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content. Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs, photos, and videos with timestamps and participant names clearly visible.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Direct confrontation almost guarantees they will immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defenses.
   • What to do instead: Document everything you can first, then call a lawyer before any direct confrontation.

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

   • What universities do: Universities may pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements to quickly close the matter.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may unknowingly waive your legal right to sue. These “settlements” are often far below the true value of your case.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or an insurance company without an experienced attorney reviewing it first.

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

   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys scour social media for information. Any inconsistencies, even minor ones, can hurt credibility. Public posts can also inadvertently waive certain legal protections.
   • What to do instead: Document privately and wait for your lawyer to advise on any public statements.

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

   • What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This is a tactic to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can be used against your child’s case.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication should go through your lawyer.

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

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears rapidly, witnesses graduate and scatter, the statute of limitations continues to run, and the university primarily controls its own narrative.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW. Consult a lawyer immediately. The university’s internal process is not the same as legal accountability for damages.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Your recorded statement will be used against you, and initial settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak and state, “My attorney will contact you.”

SHORT FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”

  • Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) typically have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, certain Title IX violations, and when suing individual employees in their personal capacity. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity barriers. Every case is fact-dependent, so contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”

  • Yes, it can be. Texas law defines hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default. However, it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who fail to report hazing when they have knowledge of it can also face misdemeanor charges.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”

  • Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 is explicit: consent is not a defense to hazing. The law recognizes that “agreement” under immense peer pressure, fear of exclusion, and power imbalances is not true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”

  • Generally, the statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of injury or death. However, certain factors like the “discovery rule” (when the harm or its cause was discovered) or fraudulent concealment (when defendants hid the hazing) can extend this period. Time is always critical—evidence vanishes, witnesses disappear, and organizations cleanse records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to protect your rights. Our video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c) gives more detail.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”

  • The location of hazing does not eliminate potential liability for universities or national organizations. Many major, high-settlement hazing cases (e.g., the Pi Delta Psi retreat death of Michael Deng) occurred entirely off-campus. Liability can still arise from university sponsorship, knowledge of off-campus activities, rules violations, or the national organization’s ultimate control.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”

  • Many hazing cases are resolved through confidential settlements before reaching a public trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy while aggressively pursuing legal accountability. Your attorney can advise on how to manage media attention and protect privacy.

WHY ATTORNEY911 FOR HAZING CASES

When your family faces the trauma of hazing, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, we are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, and we bring a unique blend of experience and tenacity to hazing cases for Austin County families and clients across Texas.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Austin County and surrounding areas, ensuring that if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families throughout the region, and we are prepared to fight for justice wherever it occurs.

What sets Attorney911 apart in the complex world of hazing litigation?

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), previously worked as an insurance defense attorney at a national law firm. This means she intimately understands how fraternity and university insurance companies operate. She knows their tactics to deny coverage, dispute claims, and lowball settlements because she used to be on their side. This invaluable insight allows us to anticipate their moves, counter their arguments, and force them to the negotiating table. Lupe’s fluency in Spanish (Hablamos Español) also allows us to effectively serve our diverse Texas community.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/), possesses a distinguished track record in complex, high-stakes litigation, including being one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation. Our experience taking on billion-dollar corporations demonstrates that we are not intimidated by national fraternities, powerful university legal teams, or their deep pockets. We know how to build and present a case that can win against formidable defendants.

• Multi-Million Dollar Results in Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury: We have a proven history of securing substantial compensation for families in wrongful death (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/) and catastrophic injury cases. Our focus is not on quick settlements, but on meticulously building cases that accurately reflect the lifetime impact of harm, including collaborating with economists and life care planners to project future medical and financial needs.

• Dual Expertise: Criminal and Civil Hazing: Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives our firm a unique advantage. When hazing leads to criminal charges, we understand how those proceedings intersect with a civil lawsuit. This dual perspective ensures we can advise on all aspects of a hazing case, protecting our clients’ interests in both the criminal and civil arenas.

• Unwavering Investigative Depth: We leverage a vast network of experts, including digital forensics specialists, medical professionals, and psychologists. Our experience in recovering deleted social media messages, subpoenaing national fraternity records, and uncovering critical university documents is paramount. As Ralph Manginello says, “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.” Our video, “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs), offers just a glimpse into our commitment to evidence.

We approach each hazing case with profound empathy and a fierce commitment to advocacy. We understand the immense emotional toll hazing takes on victims and their families. Our job is not just to win compensation, but to get you answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and work to prevent similar tragedies from befalling another family. We know you are looking for accountability. Our firm will relentlessly pursue it. Our video “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc) explains how our firm operates on a contingency basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

CALL TO ACTION: AUSTIN COUNTY AND THROUGHOUT TEXAS

If your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus – from the University of Houston to Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or anywhere else across our state – we want to hear from you. Families in Austin 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 with compassion and without judgment, explain your legal options under Texas law, and help you decide the best path forward for your family. We are ready to put our expertise to work for you.

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story and your concerns.
• We will review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• We will explain your legal options, which may include a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, or both, and discuss the pros and cons of each.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what you can expect during the legal process.
• We will answer your questions about costs, clearly explaining our contingency fee basis – meaning you owe us nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; we encourage you to take the time you need to make the right decision for your family.
• Everything you tell us is strictly confidential.

Don’t let the fear of standing against powerful institutions deter you from seeking justice. Whether you’re in Austin County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone.

Call Attorney911 today.

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

Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for a confidential consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles. Your child’s future is too important to leave to chance.

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