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If your phone buzzes with an urgent group text from your college organization, demanding you show up for a “mandatory tradition,” even though it’s 2 AM and you have a major exam tomorrow – what do you do? Do you ignore it and risk being ostracized, or do you go, pushing aside the unsettling feeling that something isn’t right?

This scenario, or one painfully similar, plays out far too often in Texas, touching families right here in Brazoria County and across the Lone Star State. It’s what drives students from our local high schools, like those at Brazoswood or Stephen F. Austin, who venture to campuses like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor – only to encounter dangerous or demeaning “traditions.”

This isn’t just about college kids making bad choices. It’s about a pervasive culture of hazing that can transform innocent-sounding “bonding” into life-altering trauma, or worse. For too long, hazing has been dismissed as harmless fun, a rite of passage, or simply “boys being boys.” But in 2025, we know better. We understand that hazing, in all its forms, is abuse – and it has devastating consequences.

This guide is your comprehensive resource for understanding hazing and the law in Texas, written specifically for families in Brazoria County and across our great state. We’ll demystify what hazing truly looks like today, explain the legal framework that applies in Texas and federally, and illuminate lessons from major national cases. Crucially, we’ll zero in on what has been happening at prominent Texas universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, providing detail relevant to students and parents alike.

We aim to empower you with knowledge: about cultural and legal patterns, about evidence that makes a difference, and about how experienced legal counsel can help hold institutions accountable. Brazoria County families send their children to these schools with hopes and dreams, not fear. When those dreams are shattered by hazing, you are not alone, and you have options.

This article provides general information and is not specific legal advice. Every hazing case is unique, and we urge you to contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential evaluation tailored to your specific situation. We serve families throughout Texas, including Brazoria County, and are ready to stand with you.

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 Brazoria County families, understanding hazing today requires looking beyond exaggerated movie scenes or simplistic definitions. Modern hazing is often insidious, cloaked in tradition, and leverages digital pressures that amplify its coercive power. It’s not always about obvious physical brutality; sometimes, the deepest scars are invisible.

Clear, modern definition of hazing

At its core, hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action connected to joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status within a group whose members include students. This action endangers physical or mental health, causes humiliation, or exploits the individual.

It’s crucial to understand that:

• “I agreed to it” or “I chose to join” does not make it legal or safe when there is a clear power imbalance, intense peer pressure, or the fear of social exclusion.
• Hazing is not limited to specific types of groups. While often associated with fraternities and sororities, it permeates athletic teams, university clubs, and even academic organizations.
• The effects can range from temporary embarrassment to lifelong psychological trauma, severe physical injury, or even death.

Main categories of hazing

Hazing manifests in various forms, often escalating from subtle manipulation to outright violence. Here’s how we categorize and understand these behaviors:

• Subtle Hazing: These behaviors create a power imbalance without direct physical harm, yet they lay the groundwork for more severe forms of abuse. Examples include enforced deception or secrecy, requiring new members to perform menial tasks for older members (like being a designated driver at all hours, doing chores, or running errands), social isolation, or strict rules about how and when new members can speak. Modern subtle hazing often involves constant monitoring through group chats, demanding instant responses, or controlling new members’ social media presence.
• Harassment Hazing: This tier involves actions that cause emotional or physical discomfort, creating a hostile and abusive environment. Examples include verbal abuse, yelling, insults, sleep deprivation (through late-night “meetings” or wake-up calls), forced consumption of unpleasant substances (like spoiled food or excessive amounts of certain foods), and extreme physical activity far beyond reasonable athletic training. Public humiliation, such as forcing pledges to perform embarrassing acts or endure degrading “roasts,” is also common. Digitally, this might involve forcing students to post humiliating content or participate in online “challenges.”
• Violent Hazing: This is the most dangerous form, carrying a high risk of severe injury, sexual assault, or death. It includes forced consumption of alcohol or drugs, physical beatings or paddling, dangerous physical “tests” (like being tackled while blindfolded, forced fights, or reckless stunts), sexualized hazing (forced nudity or simulated sexual acts), and exposure to extreme environments (like being left in severe cold or heat). The San Diego State Phi Kappa Psi case, where a pledge was set on fire, highlights extreme examples of violent hazing. Often, these activities are moved to off-campus locations like Airbnbs or private rentals to evade university oversight.

Where hazing actually happens

Hazing is not confined to stereotypical “frat boy” antics. It is a deeply entrenched problem across a wide range of collegiate groups:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes those affiliated with the Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and various multicultural Greek organizations. Despite national anti-hazing policies, chapters often find ways to perpetuate these illegal and dangerous activities.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-style Groups: The proud traditions of military programs can sometimes be twisted into abusive hazing, as seen in incidents at Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets. These acts, often cloaked as “training” or “discipline,” can lead to severe physical and psychological harm.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs, and Student Organizations: Groups like “Texas Cowboys” at UT Austin, or various spirit organizations, have faced disciplinary action for hazing. This demonstrates that any group with a hierarchical structure and a desire to enforce “tradition” can be susceptible.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, swim teams, and cheerleading squads, hazing can be prevalent. The Northwestern University football hazing scandal in 2023–2025 revealed widespread sexualized and racist hazing, proving that even high-profile athletic programs are not immune.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups can engage in hazing. The tragic death of Robert Champion at Florida A&M University’s marching band after a brutal hazing ritual brought this to national attention.

Hazing persists because it plays on fundamental human desires for belonging and acceptance, often using tactics of social status, tradition, and secrecy to maintain its grip. Students, especially those newly entering these groups, feel immense pressure to conform, believing they must “earn” their place through enduring abuse.

LAW & LIABILITY FRAMEWORK (TEXAS + FEDERAL)

For Brazoria County families facing the difficult reality of hazing, understanding the legal landscape is essential. Texas has specific laws designed to combat hazing, and federal regulations add further layers of protection and accountability.

Texas hazing law basics (Education Code)

Texas has clear, robust laws against hazing, primarily outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. This framework is crucial for prosecuting offenders and pursuing civil claims. Under Texas law, which governs cases in Brazoria County and across the state, hazing is defined as:

Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

This definition is intentionally broad to cover various forms of abuse, not just physical violence. Key aspects for Brazoria County families to remember:

• Location Doesn’t Matter: Hazing can happen on or off campus, including at private residences, Airbnb rentals, or remote locations.
• Mental and Physical Harm: The law recognizes harm to both mental and physical well-being. This includes psychological manipulation, extreme emotional distress, and humiliation, alongside physical injuries.
• Intent and Recklessness: The act doesn’t have to be malicious. If the perpetrator acted “recklessly”—meaning they were aware of a significant risk but disregarded it—that’s enough for a violation.
• “Consent” is Not a Defense: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the activity. The law understands that true consent cannot exist in coercive environments.

Criminal Penalties

Hazing leads to serious criminal charges for individuals and organizations in Texas:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Most hazing acts fall into this category, carrying penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing results in actual bodily injury requiring medical attention, the charge escalates.
• State Jail Felony: If the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a state jail felony, with more severe penalties, including potential prison time.

Additionally, individuals who are officers or members of an organization and fail to report hazing they know about can face misdemeanor charges. Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

Organizational Liability

Organizations themselves can face criminal charges:

• An organization (fraternity, sorority, club, etc.) can be found criminally liable if it 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.
• Organizational penalties can include a fine of up to $10,000 per violation. Universities also have the power to revoke recognition or permanently ban an organization from campus.

Criminal vs. Civil Lawsuits

Many families in Brazoria County wonder about the difference between criminal charges and civil lawsuits in hazing cases. While both aim for accountability, their goals and processes differ significantly:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (prosecutors) to punish illegal acts. The goal is to enforce public safety and order through penalties like jail time, fines, and probation. Hazing-related criminal charges can range from hazing itself to more serious offenses like assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, or even manslaughter or negligent homicide in fatal incidents.
• Civil Lawsuits: These are brought by victims or their families. The primary goal is to obtain monetary compensation for the harm suffered and to compel institutional change. Civil lawsuits typically focus on theories of negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, or premises liability.

It’s important to note that a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil lawsuit. The standards of proof differ, and a civil case can proceed even if criminal charges are not filed or do not result in a conviction.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations play an increasingly important role in hazing accountability:

• The Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal law is designed to increase transparency and prevention efforts across colleges and universities that receive federal funding. By 2026, these institutions will be required to:
  • Publicly report hazing incidents and related disciplinary actions more thoroughly.
  • Provide enhanced hazing education and prevention training.
  • Maintain publicly accessible data on hazing violations.
    This federal push will provide Brazoria County families with more information about the safety records of institutions across the country, including those in Texas.
• Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a sexually hostile environment, it can fall under Title IX. This triggers specific university obligations for investigation and response, regardless of whether the hazing is officially categorized as such.
• Clery Act: This federal law requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. Hazing incidents that involve assault, hate crimes, or alcohol/drug violations often trigger Clery Act reporting requirements, contributing to overall campus safety transparency.

Who can be liable in a civil hazing lawsuit

Determining who is legally responsible for hazing can be complex, but an experienced hazing attorney understands how to identify all potential defendants in a civil lawsuit:

• Individual Student Perpetrators: The students who directly participated in, organized, or facilitated the hazing can be named as defendants. This includes fraternity/sorority officers, “pledge masters,” or other leaders.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The local chapter, whether a fraternity, sorority, club, or athletic team, can be held liable as an organization.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters, as the parent organization, often faces liability. This typically occurs when a pattern of similar hazing incidents across different chapters demonstrates a failure to adequately supervise, train, or enforce anti-hazing policies, signaling “foreseeability” of the harm.
• University or Governing Board: While public universities in Texas, such as the University of Houston, Texas A&M, or UT Austin, may assert sovereign immunity (a legal doctrine protecting government entities from lawsuits), exceptions exist. Cases involving gross negligence, willful misconduct, or certain federal civil rights violations (like Title IX) can pierce this immunity. Private universities like SMU or Baylor generally have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: Other entities can sometimes be held responsible:
  • Landlords/Property Owners: If hazing occurred at an off-campus house where the owner knew or should have known about dangerous activities.
  • Alcohol Providers: Bars, stores, or individuals who illegally furnished alcohol to minors involved in hazing events if that alcohol contributed to the harm.

The specific defendants in any case depend on the unique facts and the depth of the investigation. However, identifying all potentially liable parties is critical for maximizing recovery and ensuring full accountability.

NATIONAL HAZING CASE PATTERNS (ANCHOR STORIES)

The harrowing stories of national hazing tragedies underscore the severe risks involved and illuminate legal patterns that shape hazing litigation in Texas. For Brazoria County families, these anchor cases demonstrate why no parent should dismiss hazing as harmless horseplay. They show that accountability, through both criminal prosecution and substantial civil settlements, is possible.

Alcohol poisoning & death pattern

Tragically, forced or excessive alcohol consumption remains the leading cause of hazing fatalities across the United States. These cases often highlight common threads: coerced drinking, delayed medical intervention, and a pervasive culture of silence.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died following a “bid acceptance” event where he was forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol. Fraternity surveillance cameras captured his harrowing falls and injuries, and the agonizing delay—nearly 12 hours—before fraternity members finally sought medical help. This tragic incident resulted in numerous criminal charges against fraternity members, comprehensive civil litigation, and the powerful Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, which dramatically strengthened anti-hazing statutes. His case demonstrated that extreme intoxication, coupled with a callous indifference to human life and a deliberate delay in calling 911, leads to severe legal consequences for individuals and the organization. The family eventually settled with multiple parties.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): During a “Big Brother Night,” Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge, was pressured to consume an entire handle of 100-proof liquor. He passed out and died from acute alcohol poisoning. Multiple members were prosecuted for hazing, and Florida State University temporarily suspended all Greek life, overhauling its policies. Coffey’s death, like Piazza’s, highlighted the repeating script of “tradition” drinking nights in fraternity culture and the catastrophic outcomes linked to forced alcohol consumption. The family filed a wrongful death suit, the terms of which remain confidential.
• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game. He was forced to drink if he answered questions incorrectly, ultimately reaching a blood-alcohol content of 0.495%. This incident led to the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making felony hazing punishable by up to five years in prison. The family’s lawsuit against 22 individuals and the national fraternity resulted in settlements, followed by a $6.1 million verdict against one of the fraternity members. Gruver’s case vividly illustrated how legislative change often follows public outrage and clear evidence of hazing, establishing a harsh new precedent for individual liability.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, an 20-year-old pledge, died after being forced to consume a liter of alcohol in a “Big/Little” hazing ritual. This resulted in criminal convictions for multiple fraternity members. The Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with approximately $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national and $3 million from Bowling Green State University—a public institution. This case demonstrated that universities, even public ones, can face significant financial and reputational consequences for hazing, particularly when a culture of negligence permits such events to occur. It also proved that individual fraternity officers can face massive personal liability, as the court ordered the chapter president to personally pay $6.5 million to the Foltz family.

Physical & ritualized hazing pattern

Beyond alcohol, hazing continues to involve dangerous physical rituals, often resulting in severe injury or death. These cases underscore that “traditions” can be deadly.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old pledge, died during a fraternity retreat in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. He was blindfolded, forced to wear a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a brutal “glass ceiling” ritual. His tormentors significantly delayed calling 911, contributing to his death from a traumatic brain injury. This landmark case led to multiple criminal convictions, and critically, the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity was convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, fined over $110,000, and banned from Pennsylvania for a decade. Deng’s case proved that remote, off-campus “retreats” are frequently chosen to hide hazing but offer no legal protection from accountability for perpetrators or national organizations.

Athletic program hazing & abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it is a serious issue within competitive athletic programs, highlighting the pervasive nature of power dynamics and demands for conformity.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): A series of allegations from former football players exposed widespread sexualized and racist hazing within Northwestern’s football program, spanning multiple years. Players described forced sexual acts, racial discrimination, and physical abuse. This scandal led to the firing of Head Coach Pat Fitzgerald, who subsequently filed a wrongful-termination lawsuit which was confidentially settled in August 2025. This case generated national headlines, demonstrating that hazing can occur at the highest levels of collegiate athletics, proving it’s not solely a “fraternity problem,” and raising serious questions about institutional oversight and the responsibility to protect student-athletes. Multiple former players filed civil lawsuits against the university and several individuals.

What these cases mean for Texas families

The patterns emerging from these national tragedies are stark and undeniable. Forced drinking, physical abuse, psychological torment, delayed medical care, and deliberate cover-ups are recurring themes. These cases illuminate why Texas universities and fraternities must be held accountable when similar incidents occur within our state.

For Brazoria County families, these national precedents are not just distant news stories. They demonstrate that when hazing causes severe harm or death, the legal system can deliver accountability through:

• Substantial financial compensation for victims and families.
• Criminal charges against individuals who orchestrate or carry out hazing.
• Systemic changes in university policies and fraternity oversight.

These anchor cases provide a roadmap of what is possible through determined legal action. They prove that families in Texas, with experienced counsel, can seek justice and contribute to meaningful reform, just as the Foltz, Gruver, and Piazza families have done.

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

Brazoria County is a vibrant part of the Houston metropolitan area, a region that contributes significantly to the student bodies of many Texas universities. Students from across Brazoria County attend universities both near and far, including the University of Houston, often considered a local institution, and other major state schools like Texas A&M and UT Austin, as well as private institutions such as SMU and Baylor. Given this strong connection, it’s vital for families here to understand the landscape of hazing at these specific universities.

For Brazoria County families, understanding how these campuses handle hazing is critical. Brazoria County, with its close ties to Greater Houston, sends many students to the University of Houston. This section will begin with a deep dive into UH, then cover other major Texas universities that draw students from our region.

University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a dynamic and diverse urban institution, stands as a cornerstone of higher education for many Brazoria County families. Located just a short drive from our community, its large student body fosters a vibrant campus life, including a significant Greek presence.

Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Houston is a Tier One research institution and a major economic engine for its region. Serving over 47,000 students, UH boasts a diverse student population and a bustling campus. Greek life at UH is active, with numerous Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and multicultural Greek organizations. Beyond Greek life, UH offers a wide array of student organizations, sports clubs, and spirit groups, all contributing to a rich, if sometimes complex, campus culture. For students from Brazoria County, UH offers the appeal of a major university experience within a familiar regional context.

Official hazing policy & reporting channels

The University of Houston has a comprehensive anti-hazing policy, clearly stating that hazing is prohibited whether it occurs on-campus or off-campus. The policy specifically forbids forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and actions causing mental distress, especially when tied to initiation or affiliation. UH provides multiple avenues for reporting hazing incidents without fear of retaliation, including through the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). They also provide online anonymous reporting options. The university publicly affirms its commitment to investigating all credible reports.

Example incident & response: The Leonel Bermudez case

The University of Houston campus is currently at the center of a pivotal hazing lawsuit being handled by Attorney911. Our firm represents Leonel Bermudez, a transfer student who became a pledge of the University of Houston chapter of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity (Beta Nu chapter) in late 2025. The lawsuit, filed in Harris County, seeks more than $10 million from the University of Houston, the UH System Board of Regents, the national Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, its housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders and members.

The allegations in the Bermudez case paint a disturbing picture of severe hazing:

• Pledges were forced to carry a degrading “pledge fanny pack” 24/7, containing condoms, a sex toy, nicotine devices, and other humiliating items, with threats of punishment for non-compliance.
• New members faced enforced dress codes, hours-long “study/work” blocks, weekly interviews under threat of expulsion, and overnight driving duties.
• Bermudez endured extreme physical abuse, including sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, and “save-your-brother” drills.
• He was forced to endure cold-weather exposure in his underwear, made to lie in vomit-soaked grass, and subjected to “waterboarding-like” hose spraying with threats of actual waterboarding.
• Pledges were coerced into consuming milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate sprints.
• On November 3, 2025, Bermudez was forced to perform over 100 push-ups and 500 squats, leaving him unable to stand. He rapidly developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure, passing dark brown urine—a classic symptom. He was hospitalized for four days, facing ongoing risks of permanent kidney damage.

This case, widely covered by local media including Click2Houston (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/), ABC13 (https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/), and Hoodline (https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/), represents a crucial push for accountability against both student perpetrators and the institutions that enable such abuse. Pi Kappa Phi national suspended its Beta Nu chapter on November 6, 2025, and the chapter formally surrendered its charter on November 14, just days before our lawsuit was filed. Our firm’s attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, are leading this fight. As Ralph Manginello noted, “His urine was brown… We’re almost in 2026. This has to stop.”

How a UH hazing case might proceed

Given UH’s location in Houston, hazing cases can involve agencies like the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) or the Houston Police Department, depending on whether the incident occurred on campus property or off-campus. Civil lawsuits, like the Bermudez case, would be filed in Harris County courts. Potential defendants in such cases include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially the University of Houston and its Board of Regents. Brazoria County families whose students attend UH should be aware that their legal matters would primarily be handled within the Harris County judicial system.

What UH students & parents should do

For Brazoria County students and families connected to the University of Houston:

• Document Everything from the Start: If you suspect hazing, immediately start collecting evidence—screenshots of group chats, photos of injuries, notes on dates and times. Do not delete anything from your phone.
• Know UH Reporting Channels: Utilize the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, or UHPD for formal reports. Anonymous reporting options are also available online.
• Seek Legal Counsel Promptly: Given the complexity of cases like Leonel Bermudez’s, early legal intervention is critical. An attorney experienced in Houston hazing litigation can help navigate university investigations and initiate civil action.
• Understand Jurisdiction: Cases involving UH and its Greek organizations will typically be heard in Harris County, which is close to Brazoria County, making legal proceedings more accessible for local families.

Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University in College Station, a proud institution with deep roots and fervent traditions, is another popular destination for Brazoria County students, located approximately 1.5 hours north of our community. Its unique culture, including the formidable Corps of Cadets, presents a distinct environment concerning hazing.

Campus & culture snapshot

Texas A&M is renowned for its strong Aggie Spirit, deeply ingrained traditions, and an emphasis on leadership and service. With one of the largest student populations in the nation, A&M fosters a vibrant, often intense, campus culture. Its Greek life is substantial, but arguably, the most defining and tradition-laden student group is the Corps of Cadets, which has historically faced its own challenges with hazing. This unique blend of tradition and a highly-regimented Corps culture means that hazing incidents can arise in various forms, from Greek organizations to military-style training.

Official hazing policy & reporting channels

Texas A&M’s anti-hazing policy, in line with state law, strictly prohibits hazing both on and off campus. The university outlines specific procedures for reporting incidents, including contacts for the Office of Student Conduct, University Police Department, and various confidential reporting hotlines. A&M strives for transparency by publishing annual hazing reports and actions taken against organizations found in violation.

Selected documented incidents & responses

• Corps of Cadets Incidents: Texas A&M has faced multiple hazing allegations within its esteemed Corps. In 1984, Bruce Dean Goodrich, a second-year Corps member, died from heatstroke during strenuous exercises at 2:30 AM. Although primarily fitness-related, the activities were deemed hazing, with three cadets pleading guilty to hazing and one to destroying evidence. More recently, a 2023 lawsuit alleged a Cadet was subjected to degrading hazing, including simulated sexual acts and being bound in a “roasted pig” pose. While the university stated it addressed the matter via its own rules, the incident underscores the ongoing challenge of enforcing anti-hazing policies within deeply traditional, hierarchical groups.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (Around 2021): This incident highlighted severe physical hazing, where two pledges alleged being covered in substances, including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns that required skin graft surgeries. The chapter was suspended, and the pledges took legal action, filing a lawsuit seeking $1 million. This case emphasized that hazing can involve dangerous substances, not just physical blows or alcohol.
• Phi Gamma Delta (2018): In 2018, Joseph Little, a student, collapsed and died during pledging activities for Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) that were later found to involve hazing. This tragic event was particularly poignant given that another student, Trey Walker, had died during alleged hazing in the same chapter in 1997. This pattern of recurrence within the same organization underlines the systemic nature of hazing despite prior incidents.

How a Texas A&M hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases originating from Texas A&M’s campus would typically involve the Texas A&M University Police Department and Texas A&M’s student conduct processes. Civil litigation would proceed in Brazos County district courts. Given its comprehensive reporting and strict regulations, families from Brazoria County involved in an A&M hazing incident can expect a thorough, if sometimes internal, university investigation, but legal action would necessitate independent counsel to pursue civil accountability. Brazos County falls under Houston-area legal jurisdiction, although it’s not part of Harris County.

What Texas A&M students & parents should do

For Brazoria County students attending Texas A&M:

• Respect Traditions, but Recognize Red Flags: Appreciate A&M’s unique traditions, but distinguish between harmless ritual and dangerous hazing. Any activity threatening physical or mental well-being is hazing.
• Utilize A&M’s Reporting System: Texas A&M has robust reporting channels. Use them immediately if you witness or experience hazing.
• Document Corps vs. Greek Hazing: Understand that hazing in the Corps of Cadets may differ from Greek life, but the consequences—and legal avenues for recourse—are similar.
• Seek Legal Counsel if Injured: Given the history of severe incidents, including those with physical injuries, Brazoria County families should contact Attorney911 if their child is harmed.

University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is the flagship institution for the University of Texas System and a top choice for many Brazoria County students seeking a world-class education. Its large campus and vibrant Greek system make it another focal point for hazing awareness. UT’s position as a public university means its hazing violations are often publicly accessible, offering valuable insight.

Campus & culture snapshot

UT Austin is a sprawling campus with a rich history, known for its academic rigor, competitive athletics, and spirited student body. Greek life is highly prominent, encompassing a wide range of fraternities and sororities with diverse cultural affiliations. Beyond formal Greek organizations, numerous student groups, spirit organizations like the Texas Cowboys, and athletic teams also participate in long-standing “traditions” that can sometimes cross into hazing territory.

Official hazing policy & reporting channels

The University of Texas at Austin maintains a zero-tolerance policy for hazing. Crucially, UT is lauded for its relative transparency, maintaining an online public list of Hazing Violations (often found on their Dean of Students website). This report details organizations, dates of incidents, a summary of the conduct, and the disciplinary actions taken. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students, the Behavior Concerns Advice Line (BCAL), and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).

Selected documented incidents & responses

• Prominent Public Violations: UT’s Hazing Violations page often lists multiple disciplinary actions against fraternities, sororities, and other student groups. For example, Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) was recently cited (circa 2023) for new members being directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, resulting in probation and mandatory education. The Texas Cowboys, a well-known spirit group, have faced multiple suspensions for hazing, particularly related to excessive alcohol consumption and physical endurance tests. The 2018 death of a “New Man” in a truck accident, allegedly related to sleep deprivation from pledging, raised significant concerns about the group’s “reckless traditions.”
• Historical Incidents: UT has a long history with hazing. In 1928, Nolte McElroy, a Delta Kappa Epsilon pledge, died from an electric shock while crawling through mattresses charged with current – one of the earliest recorded hazing deaths. More recently, in 2005, Phanta “Jack” Phoummarath died from acute alcohol intoxication during a Lambda Phi Epsilon event, where pledges were pressured to drink and eat spicy foods. These repeated patterns, often involving alcohol, demonstrate a persistent challenge despite policies.

How a UT Austin hazing case might proceed

Given its location, hazing incidents at UT Austin could involve both the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) and the Austin Police Department. Civil lawsuits related to UT would typically be heard in Travis County courts. UT’s public record of hazing violations provides valuable pattern evidence for civil cases, demonstrating the university’s prior knowledge of problematic organizations. Brazoria County families should note that a lawsuit against UT or an organization there would involve legal proceedings in Travis County, a significant drive from our community but within our firm’s statewide reach.

What UT Austin students & parents should do

For Brazoria County students considering or currently attending the University of Texas at Austin:

• Review UT’s Public Hazing Log: Before joining any organization, check UT’s public list of hazing violations to understand an organization’s history.
• Use UT’s Reporting Mechanisms: Familiarize yourself with how to report incidents via the Dean of Students, BCAL, or UTPD.
• Recognize the “Tradition” Trap: Be wary of any activity justified solely by “tradition” that compromises safety or dignity. UT has a spirited campus, but true spirit does not involve abuse.
• Seek Experienced Legal Guidance: If hazing severely impacts your child at UT, contact a lawyer with experience navigating the complexities of state university liability and publicly documented hazing patterns.

Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, known for its strong academic programs and affluent student body, attracts many students from discerning Brazoria County families. As a private institution, SMU’s mechanisms for addressing hazing differ from its public counterparts, though its commitment to student safety remains paramount.

Campus & culture snapshot

Located in Dallas, SMU is a private, religiously affiliated university with a picturesque campus and a vibrant social scene, heavily influenced by its active Greek life. Its fraternities and sororities are often significant social hubs. Like many private universities, SMU cultivates a close-knit community but sometimes struggles with the “bubble” effect, where internal issues may be less publicly scrutinized than at larger state schools.

Official hazing policy & reporting channels

SMU explicitly prohibits hazing and defines it broadly in its student code of conduct to include any action that might endanger a student’s mental or physical health or safety. Reporting hazing incidents can be done through the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Life, or the SMU Police Department. SMU also utilizes systems like “Real Response” to facilitate anonymous reporting, encouraging students and parents to come forward without fear of retribution.

Selected documented incidents & responses

• Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): In 2017, the SMU chapter of Kappa Alpha Order faced severe sanctions following a hazing investigation. Allegations included pledges being paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and deprived of sleep. The university swiftly suspended the chapter for a lengthy period, imposing restrictions on its recruiting and social activities until roughly 2021. This incident gained significant media attention, highlighting that even at private institutions, hazing behaviors persist and result in serious penalties.
• Other Incidents: SMU’s student conduct records, while not as publicly detailed as UT Austin’s, show various organizations have faced disciplinary action for hazing-related offenses, often involving alcohol misuse, physical endurance, and harassment during new member processes.

How an SMU hazing case might proceed

As a private institution, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity as public universities do. This can simplify some aspects of civil litigation, as the university is generally subject to direct negligence claims. Hazing lawsuits against SMU or its affiliated organizations would typically be filed in Dallas County courts. For Brazoria County families, this means navigating the legal system in a different Texas urban center, but with the same dedicated legal support from Attorney911. The ability for civil discovery to compel access to internal university records can be critical for building a strong case.

What SMU students & parents should do

For Brazoria County students considering or attending SMU:

• Understand Private University Dynamics: Be aware that accountability processes at private institutions may be less publicly transparent than at state schools, making external legal intervention potentially more crucial for obtaining information and justice.
• Use Anonymous Reporting Well: Utilize SMU’s confidential reporting mechanisms like “Real Response” to document concerns, especially if you fear reprisal.
• Document Everything from Day One: Maintain records of any suspicious activities, communications, or injuries. These will be essential if legal action becomes necessary.
• Consult Legal Experts: If hazing occurs, promptly contact an attorney skilled in handling hazing cases at private universities, who understands how to pursue claims where institutional policies and oversight are at issue.

Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Baptist university in Waco, draws students from Brazoria County seeking a faith-based educational environment combined with strong academics. Baylor’s adherence to its Christian mission and its recent history of high-profile institutional issues provide a distinct backdrop for understanding hazing on its campus.

Campus & culture snapshot

Baylor is a large, private university with a deep historical connection to Baptist traditions. Its campus culture emphasizes community, service, and spiritual development. Greek life is active, alongside numerous other student organizations that align with the university’s mission. However, Baylor has faced significant scrutiny in recent years regarding its handling of sexual assault and other organizational failures, which has pushed it to re-evaluate its institutional oversight and student safety protocols across the board.

Official hazing policy & reporting channels

Baylor’s anti-hazing policy is strict and comprehensive, explicitly prohibiting all forms of hazing. The university has made concerted efforts to educate its community about the dangers of hazing and provides multiple channels for reporting, including through the Office of Student Conduct, Baylor Police Department, and an anonymous hotline/online reporting system. The university emphasizes its “zero-tolerance” stance and its commitment to student well-being.

Selected documented incidents & responses

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): In 2020, 14 members of Baylor’s baseball team were suspended following a hazing investigation. These suspensions were staggered over the early part of the season to avoid crippling the team, but they sent a clear message that even high-profile athletic teams would face consequences. While specific details of the hazing were not publicly released, the incident underscored that hazing can occur within athletic programs, despite university best efforts to prevent it.
• Historical Incidents Related to Tradition: Baylor has a history of incidents where student-led “traditions” have gone awry. In 1967, John E. Clifton died during a physical hazing ritual involving a foul concoction and laxatives by the Baylor Chamber of Commerce, a social club. While the death was ruled accidental and President Abner McCall initially downplayed hazing, public outcry eventually led to stricter policies. These historical contexts shape Baylor’s ongoing struggle with student group behavior.

How a Baylor hazing case might proceed

As a private university, Baylor does not have sovereign immunity, making it potentially liable for negligence, gross negligence, or other tort claims. Hazing lawsuits against Baylor or its organizations would typically be filed in McLennan County courts. Baylor’s recent history of high-profile institutional failures, particularly concerning student safety and Title IX compliance, means that any new hazing incidents would likely be met with intense external and internal scrutiny. Brazilian County families pursuing a claim against Baylor would need legal counsel experienced in holding private universities accountable for systemic issues.

What Baylor students & parents should do

For Brazoria County students and families involved with Baylor University:

• Prioritize Safety Above Tradition: While Baylor is rich in traditions, any activity that compromises safety, dignity, or mental health is unacceptable, regardless of its historical roots.
• Understand Baylor’s Renewed Scrutiny: Baylor’s past challenges with student welfare issues mean the university is under intense pressure to demonstrate accountability. This can be a double-edged sword: increased vigilance but also potential defensiveness.
• Report Directly and Anonymously: Utilize all available reporting channels, including anonymous options, to ensure incidents are documented.
• Engage Legal Counsel Early: Given Baylor’s complex institutional history, swift consultation with an attorney experienced in university liability is crucial for Brazoria County families seeking justice.

Many Brazoria County families also send their children to Midland College in Midland, or Laredo College in Laredo. While these institutions may have a smaller Greek footprint, the same hazing laws and dangers apply, and Attorney911 is prepared to assist families affected by incidents there as well.

GREEK ORGANIZATIONS: CAMPUS-SPECIFIC + NATIONAL HISTORIES

When hazing impacts a student from Brazoria County, the problem often extends far beyond a single local chapter. Most fraternities and sororities at Texas universities are connected to powerful national organizations, and understanding this national context is key to accountability.

Why national histories matter

National fraternities and sororities, including the ones with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, operate under centralized leadership. They develop policies, provide training, collect dues, and brand their chapters under a unified image. Crucially, these national organizations often have extensive histories of hazing incidents—histories that can create a pattern of foreseeability in legal claims.

When a local chapter in Texas repeats a dangerous hazing script that has led to injury or death in another state, it can be argued that the national organization had prior notice of the risk. Their failure to effectively prevent or address such patterns can then be central to claims of negligence or gross negligence in a civil lawsuit. This means their anti-hazing policies, while seemingly robust on paper, must be rigorously enforced, or they risk liability for their chapters’ conduct—even when that conduct is technically “against policy.”

Organization mapping: Connecting local presence to national patterns

Many of the fraternities and sororities common at Texas universities are nationally recognized. For Brazoria County families, understanding these connections is vital. Let’s look at some examples of organizations with a presence in Texas and their national hazing histories.

Please note: The inclusion of a national organization here, alongside its documented incidents, does NOT mean that every local chapter has engaged in hazing, or that a specific local chapter in Texas has committed these acts. Rather, it highlights the national organization’s documented history of hazing, which demonstrates foreseeability and a pattern of behavior at the national level.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike)
  • National History: Pi Kappa Alpha has a dark history of alcohol-related hazing deaths.
    • Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University, 2021): A pledge died from alcohol poisoning after consuming an entire bottle of alcohol, leading to a $10 million settlement for his family (including $7 million from the national fraternity). Multiple members were criminally convicted, and the chapter was permanently removed.
    • David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois University, 2012): Another pledge died from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event, resulting in a $14 million settlement awarded to his family.
  • Presence in Texas: Chapters at the University of Texas, Texas Tech University, and others.
  • Foreseeability Argument: Given repeated fatal incidents involving alcohol hazing, Pi Kappa Alpha national is arguably on high notice regarding the risks of such events at its chapters, including those in Texas.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE)
  • National History: SAE has been referred to as “America’s deadliest fraternity” by some media outlets due to a tragic number of hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide involving alcohol.
    • University of Alabama (filed 2023): A pledge allegedly suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual, leading to a lawsuit against the fraternity.
    • Texas A&M University (2021): Two pledges alleged severe chemical burns after industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and other substances were poured on them during hazing, leading to hospitalization and skin graft surgeries. The pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million.
    • University of Texas at Austin (2024): A student alleged severe injuries, including a dislocated leg and broken bones, after being assaulted by fraternity members at a party, with allegations of prior hazing/safety violations.
  • Presence in Texas: Chapters at the University of Texas, Texas A&M University, and Southern Methodist University.
  • Foreseeability Argument: With such a pervasive history of severe incidents, including multiple in Texas, SAE national faces strong arguments of foreseeability and a pattern of failing to control dangerous chapters.
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)
  • National History: Phi Delta Theta has been linked to several high-profile hazing deaths.
    • Maxwell “Max” Gruver (Louisiana State University, 2017): A pledge died from extreme alcohol toxicity after being forced to participate in a dangerous drinking game. One member was convicted of negligent homicide, and the incident spurred the felony hazing Max Gruver Act in Louisiana. The family secured a $6.1 million verdict in civil litigation.
  • Presence in Texas: Chapters at Texas Christian University, and the University of Texas.
  • Foreseeability Argument: Max Gruver’s case specifically demonstrated how forced drinking games can be fatal, placing the national organization on notice for similar practices in any chapter.
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)
  • National History: Pi Kappa Phi has been involved in multiple hazing-related fatalities.
    • Andrew Coffey (Florida State University, 2017): A pledge died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night,” which led to multiple criminal prosecutions and a temporary suspension of Greek life at FSU.
    • Leonel Bermudez (University of Houston, 2025): The current, high-profile $10 million lawsuit by Attorney911 alleges severe physical and psychological hazing resulting in acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis. This case specifically connects Pi Kappa Phi’s national negligence and pattern of behavior to a critical incident on a Texas campus.
  • Presence in Texas: Beta Nu chapter at the University of Houston, among others.
  • Foreseeability Argument: Given the direct involvement in the current Bermudez case and Andrew Coffey’s death, Pi Kappa Phi National clearly has a pattern of alleged negligence regarding alcohol-fueled and physically abusive “Big Brother” events, strengthening arguments against the national body.
• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI)
  • National History: FIJI has had one of the most devastating non-fatal hazing incidents.
    • Danny Santulli (University of Missouri, 2021): An 18-year-old pledge suffered severe and permanent brain damage after being forced to consume excessive alcohol. The Santulli family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants, including the fraternity, with multi-million-dollar settlements.
  • Presence in Texas: Chapters at Texas A&M University (where Joseph Little died in 2018), and others.
  • Foreseeability Argument: The catastrophic outcome for Danny Santulli, combined with other incidents, creates a strong argument that FIJI national has a history of failing to prevent high-risk alcohol hazing.
• Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ)
  • National History: Omega Psi Phi has faced allegations of severe physical hazing, particularly in its historically black Greek letter organization chapters, which can involve paddling and physical beatings.
    • University of Southern Mississippi (2023): A former student alleged extensive injuries, including requiring emergency surgery, after repeated beatings with a wooden paddle during “Hell Night,” leading to a federal lawsuit.
  • Presence in Texas: Chapters throughout the state, including at Prairie View A&M University.
  • Foreseeability Argument: The allegations of ongoing physical hazing, including paddling, demonstrate a pattern that the national organization is aware of and must proactively address.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ)
  • National History: Kappa Sigma has been linked to tragic alcohol-related hazing deaths and severe injuries for decades.
    • Chad Meredith (University of Miami, 2001): An 18-year-old pledge drowned after being pressured to swim across a lake while intoxicated, resulting in a $12.6 million jury verdict for his family. This led to Florida’s Chad Meredith Law making hazing a criminal offense.
    • Texas A&M University (ongoing 2023): Lawsuits suggest pledges suffered rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) due to extreme physical hazing.
  • Presence in Texas: Chapters at Texas Christian University, among others.
  • Foreseeability Argument: Decades of legal action, including multi-million-dollar verdicts and recent severe injury cases, demonstrate Kappa Sigma national’s long-standing awareness of the dangers of its chapters’ hazing practices.
• Kappa Alpha Order (KA)
  • National History: KA is often associated with themes of southern tradition, which unfortunately have sometimes included hazing. They have faced multiple university suspensions across the country for hazing infractions.
    • University of Missouri, Rolla (1977): A cannon misfired during a Daughters of Lee little sisters’ initiation, killing fraternity member Randall Crustals. While an accident, it highlights the risks of dangerous “initiation” events.
  • Presence in Texas: Chapters at Southern Methodist University and other Texas schools.
  • Foreseeability Argument: The repetitive nature of hazing suspensions across their collegiate network indicates a pattern that the national organization must address.

Tie back to legal strategy

The national histories of these Greek organizations are not just sad anecdotes; they are crucial components of a legal strategy in a hazing lawsuit. By demonstrating a pattern of similar incidents across states and campuses, experienced hazing lawyers can argue that:

• Foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known that specific types of hazing (e.g., alcohol consumption, physical abuse) were prevalent within its system and posed a significant risk.
• Negligent Supervision: The national organization failed to adequately train, supervise, or sanction its chapters and members, allowing dangerous practices to persist despite prior warnings.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of severe recklessness or deliberate indifference, evidence of a national pattern of ignored warnings can support claims for punitive damages, which aim to punish egregious conduct and deter future similar acts.

For Brazoria County families, this means a lawsuit against a local chapter isn’t just about a few “bad apples”; it’s about holding the entire organizational structure accountable for a systemic failing to protect students.

BUILDING A CASE: EVIDENCE, DAMAGES, STRATEGY

For families in Brazoria County, understanding how a hazing case is built—from evidence collection to compensation—is crucial. Hazing litigation requires meticulous investigation and a deep knowledge of how to challenge powerful institutions. The Manginello Law Firm excels in this complex legal arena.

Evidence

Modern hazing cases are often won or lost based on the quality and quantity of evidence. Given the secrecy and digital nature of many hazing acts, effective evidence collection is paramount. For Brazoria County families, this process begins immediately after an incident occurs. Our video “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides essential guidance on this critical first step.

• Digital Communications: In 2025, group chats and direct messages are the single most important source of evidence.
  • Platforms: GroupMe, iMessage/SMS, WhatsApp, Discord, Slack, Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok comments.
  • What to Preserve: Screenshots of full conversations with visible sender names, timestamps, and sufficient context. It’s vital to save messages that show planning, coercion, humiliation, or explicit instructions for hazing activities. If messages are designed to disappear (like on Snapchat), screenshot them immediately.
  • Recovery: Deleted messages can often be recovered by digital forensics experts, but original, untampered screenshots are always preferred.
• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence directly captures the hazing in progress or its aftermath.
  • Incidents: Photos or videos showing forced drinking, physical abuse, humiliating acts, or dangerous stunts. These often circulate within private group chats or on social media.
  • Injuries: Take multiple photos of injuries from various angles, with good lighting, and next to a ruler or coin for scale. Document the progression of bruises and wounds over several days.
  • Locations: Photos of the scene where hazing occurred, including any visible props, alcohol, or environmental conditions.
• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the direct impact of hazing on the victim’s health.
  • Physical Injuries: Emergency room reports, ambulance records, hospitalization notes, X-rays, CT scans, and lab results (e.g., blood alcohol levels, toxicology screens, kidney function tests for rhabdomyolysis). It is critical to tell medical providers about the hazing as the cause of injury to ensure proper documentation.
  • Psychological Harm: Records from psychologists, psychiatrists, or counselors documenting diagnoses like PTSD, depression, anxiety, or acute stress disorder resulting from the hazing.
• Internal Organization Documents: These can reveal the intent and knowledge of the organization.
  • Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “traditions” documents, risk management policies, and internal communications planning hazing events. These are typically obtained through the discovery process during litigation.
• University Records: Public universities’ records can be accessed through public records requests (e.g., FOIA); private universities’ records are sought through discovery.
  • Prior disciplinary actions against the hazing organization, internal investigations, campus police reports concerning the group, and emails between administrators regarding the organization’s behavior.
• Witness Testimony: The accounts of individuals who observed or participated in the hazing are invaluable.
  • Other pledges, active members, roommates, coaches, RAs, or even former members who have left the organization. Encouraging these witnesses to come forward is crucial, and legal protections can often be afforded to them.

Damages

The goal of a civil hazing lawsuit is to secure full compensation for all harm suffered. This encompasses both economic losses (quantifiable financial costs) and non-economic damages (subjective suffering). Our firm works with various experts to fully calculate the value of these damages.

• Economic Damages:
  • Medical Expenses: All past and future costs, including emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, long-term care for severe injuries (like brain damage in cases akin to Danny Santulli’s), and psychotherapy for psychological trauma.
  • Lost Income & Earning Capacity: Compensation for wages lost due to injury or recovery, and for any reduction in future earning potential if hazing caused permanent disability or significantly derailed a career path.
  • Educational Losses: Tuition for missed semesters, cost of transferring schools, and lost scholarships.
• Non-Economic Damages:
  • Physical Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the actual pain experienced from injuries and any ongoing discomfort.
  • Emotional Distress: Damages for psychological suffering, including humiliation, severe anxiety, PTSD, depression, and loss of dignity.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: For the inability to participate in previously cherished activities or the general diminishment of life’s quality due to the hazing.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In the tragic event of a hazing fatality, families can seek:
  • Funeral and burial expenses.
  • Loss of companionship, love, and support from the deceased.
  • Loss of financial contributions the deceased would have made to the family.
  • Emotional suffering of the surviving family members.
• Punitive Damages: In egregious cases involving extreme recklessness, malice, or deliberate indifference, courts may award punitive damages. These are not about compensating the victim but punishing the defendants and deterring similar misconduct in the future.

Role of different defendants and insurance coverage

Hazing litigation often involves powerful defendants—national fraternities, universities, and their insurance carriers. These entities are typically well-resourced and will aggressively defend against claims.

• Insurance Companies: National fraternities and universities usually carry substantial insurance policies. However, their insurers often attempt to deny coverage by arguing that hazing constitutes “intentional acts” or “criminal conduct,” which may be excluded from liability policies. An experienced hazing attorney understands how to challenge these exclusions, arguing that the true claim is for negligent supervision, failure to enforce policies, or other acts of negligence that trigger coverage. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney is invaluable here, as she knows the insurers’ strategies from the inside.
• Complex Litigation: Pursuing a claim against multiple defendants—individual students, local chapters, national organizations, and universities—requires sophisticated legal strategy. This includes identifying all responsible parties, navigating their various legal defenses (like sovereign immunity for public universities or claims of “rogue chapters”), and consolidating claims effectively. Attorney911’s experience with complex litigation, even against massive corporations like in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, means we are prepared to face any defendant.

The strategic pursuit of evidence, the meticulous calculation of damages, and the ability to confront well-funded defendants are what define successful hazing litigation. For Brazoria County families, choosing a firm with this specialized expertise is essential.

PRACTICAL GUIDES & FAQS

For Brazoria County families and students, knowing what to do immediately after a hazing incident can be life-saving and case-making. Here are practical steps to take and answers to common questions.

For parents

Your role in recognizing and responding to hazing is critical. Be vigilant, supportive, and ready to act.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Look for a combination of these red flags:
  • Physical: Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts; extreme fatigue; weight changes; sleep deprivation; signs of alcohol or drug use.
  • Behavioral/Emotional: Sudden secrecy, withdrawal from family/friends, personality changes (anxiety, depression, irritability), defensiveness about the group, fear of “getting in trouble” with the organization.
  • Academic: Sudden drop in grades, missing classes, falling asleep in class due to late-night activities.
  • Financial: Unexpected large expenses; buying excessive amounts of alcohol or items for older members; unexplained requests for money.
  • Digital: Constant phone use for group chats; anxiety when the phone rings; deleting messages; new geo-tracking apps.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach them with empathy, not judgment. Start with open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?” Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priorities, and you will support them no matter what.
• If Your Child Is Hurt: Immediately ensure they receive medical care. Then, begin documenting everything: take multiple photos of injuries from different angles, screenshot all relevant texts and group chats, and write down a detailed narrative of what your child tells you, including dates, times, and who was involved.
• Dealing with the University: If you choose to contact the university (Dean of Students, police), meticulously document every conversation. Ask for written confirmation of your report and what steps the university plans to take. Inquire about the organization’s prior disciplinary history.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: Contact Attorney911 if your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, if you feel the university or organization is minimizing the incident, or if you are pressured to sign any documents.

For students / pledges

If you’re a student in Brazoria County, remember: your safety and well-being come before any organization’s “tradition.” Hazing is illegal, and you have rights.

• Is this hazing or just tradition? The litmus test: If you feel unsafe, humiliated, exploited, or coerced; if you’re forced to consume alcohol or endure pain; if the activity must be hidden from outsiders or university officials—it is hazing. True tradition should uplift and challenge you positively, not endanger you.
• Why “consent” isn’t the end of the story: As Texas law states, “consent is not a defense” to hazing. The pressure to belong, the fear of judgment, or the desire to “fit in” is a powerful form of coercion. You have the right to leave any unsafe situation, regardless of what you may have “agreed” to under duress.
• Exiting and reporting safely: If you are in immediate danger, call 911. You have the legal right to leave an organization at any time. Politely inform the organization via a written message (email or text to a leader) that you are resigning. If you fear retaliation, report your concerns to the Dean of Students or campus police. You can report hazing anonymously to the National Anti-Hazing Hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293).
• Good-faith reporting and amnesty: Many schools and state laws protect students who seek help for themselves or others in an emergency, offering immunity from disciplinary action for things like underage drinking. Your life, or a friend’s life, is far more important than any organizational punishment.

For former members / witnesses

If you are a former member, or a witness to hazing, your decision to come forward can be pivotal in stopping further abuse and securing justice.

• Your Role in Accountability: Your unique perspective and knowledge can be crucial for an investigation, helping to corroborate victim accounts and establish patterns.
• Navigating Your Exposure: If you participated in hazing, you might have legal exposure yourself. It is critical to consult with an attorney to understand your rights and options. An attorney can help you navigate the process, potentially protecting you while ensuring justice for victims. Attorney911 has deep experience in criminal defense (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) and can assist individuals who want to do the right thing while protecting themselves.

Critical mistakes that can destroy your case

Protecting your legal rights and maximizing potential recovery starts with avoiding crucial missteps that can severely weaken a hazing case. Learn from our video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

• Letting Digital Evidence Disappear: Hazing is planned and documented in group chats. Allowing messages, photos, or videos to be deleted (even if embarrassing) significantly harms a case. Immediately screenshot EVERYTHING.
• Confronting Perpetrators Directly: Do not engage directly with the organization or its members. This often leads to evidence destruction, witness coaching, and further intimidation.
• Signing University or Insurance Documents Without Legal Review: These documents are often designed to protect the institution, not your child. Signing them can waive your rights to full compensation or even to pursue a lawsuit.
• Talking to Insurance Adjusters Alone: Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to minimize payouts. Adjusters are trained to elicit information that can be used against you.
• Waiting to Seek Legal Counsel: Evidence vanishes quickly, witnesses graduate, and statutes of limitations can expire. Timely legal action is crucial. Our video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c) explains how critical time can be.

Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) benefit from sovereign immunity, making them harder but not impossible to sue; exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, or when suing employees individually. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-dependent—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.
• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who fail to report hazing they know about, as officers or members, can also face misdemeanor charges.
• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. The law recognizes that true “consent” cannot exist where there is coercion, peer pressure, or fear of exclusion.
• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, there’s a two-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” can extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known, particularly in cases involving cover-ups. Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses move, and organizations destroy 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) explains this in more detail.
• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of hazing does not shield perpetrators or organizations from liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be held accountable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and the foreseeability of hazing occurring off-campus. Many major hazing cases, such as the Pi Delta Psi retreat death, occurred off-campus yet resulted in significant judgments.
• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  While high-profile cases can attract media attention, most hazing lawsuits settle confidentially before going to trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy and work to secure confidential settlements when possible, ensuring accountability without unnecessary public exposure.

ABOUT THE MANGINELLO LAW FIRM + CALL TO ACTION

When your family in Brazoria County or anywhere in Texas faces the devastating impact of hazing, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need dedicated advocates who deeply understand the complex legal, cultural, and institutional dynamics of campus abuse—and who aren’t afraid to take on powerful defendants. That’s precisely what The Manginello Law Firm, operating as Attorney911, brings to your fight.

From our Houston office, a short distance from Brazoria County, we serve families throughout Texas, including those from our local communities who send their children to universities across the state. We have seen firsthand how devastating hazing can be, and we are committed to holding responsible parties accountable.

Why Attorney911 for hazing cases?

• The Insurance Insider Advantage: Our Associate Attorney, Lupe Peña, brings a unique perspective: she is a former insurance defense attorney from a national law firm (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/). This means we know the defense playbook inside and out. We understand how national fraternities, universities, and their insurers evaluate (and often undervalue) hazing claims. We anticipate their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and their settlement strategies because we used to create them. This insider knowledge is a formidable asset in your corner.
• Proven Experience Against Powerful Institutions: Ralph Manginello, our Managing Partner (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/), has a track record of complex litigation against massive corporations. Our firm was involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, taking on billion-dollar entities and winning. We are not intimidated by the well-funded legal teams of national fraternities, universities, or their housing corporations. We have the federal court experience (including the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) and the strategic acumen to fight for justice, no matter how large the defendant.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Results: Hazing often leads to severe injuries or wrongful death. Our firm has a proven history of securing multi-million dollar results for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/). We meticulously work with medical experts, digital forensics specialists, and economists to fully value lifelong care needs for brain injuries or permanent disabilities, ensuring our clients receive the full measure of justice they deserve. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that compel true accountability.
• Dual Criminal and Civil Expertise: Hazing can result in both criminal charges and civil lawsuits. Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) ensures we understand how criminal proceedings impact civil claims. We can advise clients who might be witnesses or individuals with potential criminal exposure, guiding them through the complexities of both legal tracks. Our criminal defense expertise (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) is another layer of comprehensive support we offer.
• Unrelenting Investigative Depth: We don’t just scratch the surface. We deploy a network of experts to uncover the truth: digital forensics specialists to recover deleted messages and social media, medical professionals to document injuries, and economists to calculate long-term financial impacts. We know how to expose the hidden practices, subpoena crucial records, and piece together the full story—even when organizations attempt a cover-up.
• Empathetic Advocacy: We understand that a hazing incident causes profound pain, fear, and confusion. We approach every case with compassion, providing educational guidance and unwavering support to families navigating this ordeal. We believe in empowering our clients with information, ensuring they understand each step of the legal process.

Our dedication goes beyond the courtroom. We are driven by a commitment to getting answers for grieving and injured families, holding the responsible parties accountable, and helping to prevent future tragedies.

Whether you’re in Brazoria County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

Contact Attorney911 for a Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether it’s the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other institution—we want to hear from you. Families in Brazoria County and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

Here’s what you can expect from your free consultation:

• Listen Without Judgment: We will listen to your story with compassion and understanding.
• Review Your Evidence: We’ll discuss any evidence you have, from photos and texts to medical records.
• Explain Your Options: We’ll clearly outline your legal avenues, whether that involves a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• Discuss Timelines and Expectations: We provide a realistic overview of the legal process, from investigation to resolution.
• Answer Your Questions: We’ll address all your concerns, including how our contingency fee works—meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc).
• No Pressure: There’s no obligation to hire us on the spot. We want you to feel confident in your decision.

Your initial call is confidential and carries no risk. Don’t let fear or confusion prevent you from seeking justice.

Call Now:

• Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct Line: (713) 528-9070
• Cell: (713) 443-4781

Visit Us Online:

• Website: https://attorney911.com
• Email: ralph@atty911.com

Hablamos Español:

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

You don’t have to face this legal emergency alone. Whether you’re in Brazoria County or elsewhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, contact Attorney911 today.

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