Understanding Hazing in Texas: A Guide for Brewster County Families

It’s a scene playing out with disturbing frequency across Texas campuses: a student is driven to desperate lengths to “earn” their place in a group. Perhaps it’s an initiation night at an off-campus fraternity house near a major university, where pledges are pressured to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol or endure humiliating physical challenges. Others watch, chant, or film on their phones, caught between thrill and unease. When someone shows signs of distress—collapsing, vomiting uncontrollably, or even losing consciousness—a chilling silence descends. No one wants to call 911, fearing the consequences for the chapter, for themselves, for their future. The student, perhaps a bright young individual from Brewster County, here in the heart of West Texas, feels trapped between a fierce desire for belonging and the instinct for self-preservation.

This stark reality isn’t just a distant headline; it’s a profound concern for families across Texas, including those here in Brewster County and our vibrant communities nestled between the Chisos Mountains and the Big Bend Ranch State Park. Our young people often leave our local high schools, like Alpine High, with dreams of higher education at institutions throughout the state. While they pursue academic and social growth, we as parents naturally worry about their safety.

This comprehensive guide is prepared by The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, to shed light on hazing and the complex legal landscape surrounding it in Texas. We understand the unique concerns of families in Brewster County, from Alpine to Marathon, Study Butte to Terlingua, and throughout our vast region, many of whom send their children to major universities across the state. In this guide, we will explore:

• What hazing truly looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes to reveal modern tactics.
• The intricacies of Texas and federal laws designed to combat hazing.
• Critical lessons learned from major national hazing cases and their direct relevance to Texas families.
• The unfortunate patterns and specifics of hazing incidents at Texas’s prominent universities: the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University, as well as how these impact students from communities like ours in Brewster County.
• The legal options available to victims and their families in Brewster County and throughout Texas seeking accountability and justice.

While this article provides general information, it is not a substitute for tailored legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm is dedicated to evaluating individual cases based on their unique facts and serving families throughout Texas, including our neighbors and friends here in Brewster County.

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, time is critical:

  • Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.” Prioritizing their health is paramount.
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
    • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages (DMs) immediately.
    • Photograph any injuries from multiple angles and with adequate lighting.
    • Save any physical items such as clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or objects used in the hazing.
  • Write down everything while your memory is fresh: who was involved, what happened, when it occurred, and where.
  • Do NOT:
    • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly. Such actions can lead to evidence destruction or retaliation.
    • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal counsel.
    • Post details about the incident on public social media. Such posts can compromise your legal position.
    • Allow your child to delete messages or attempt to “clean up” any evidence.

• Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

  • Evidence disappears rapidly, including deleted group chats, destroyed objects, and coached witnesses.
  • Universities often move quickly to manage the narrative.
  • Our team at Attorney911 can help preserve critical evidence and protect your child’s rights during this vulnerable time.
  • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For families in Brewster County and across Texas, it’s vital to understand that hazing has evolved far beyond the old caricatures you might see in movies. It’s no longer just harmless pranks or simple mischief. Hazing today is often insidious, dangerous, and sometimes tragically fatal. It can inflict severe psychological wounds long after physical injuries heal.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

In plain English, hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action connected to joining, maintaining membership in, or gaining status within a group. This behavior endangers a student’s physical or mental health, humiliates them, or exploits them. It’s crucial to emphasize: saying “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal. When there’s a significant power imbalance, intense peer pressure, or fear of exclusion, “consent” can be meaningless in the eyes of the law.

Main Categories of Hazing

Understanding the diverse forms hazing can take is the first step toward recognizing and preventing it.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is one of the most common and deadliest forms. It involves:

  • Forced or coerced drinking: Pledges or new members are pressured to consume alcohol against their will or beyond safe limits.
  • Chugging challenges, “lineups,” and drinking games: Activities specifically designed to promote rapid and excessive alcohol consumption, often resulting in alcohol poisoning.
  • Dares or pressure to consume unknown substances: This can include illicit drugs or other dangerous concoctions.

• Physical Hazing: Directly involves bodily harm or extreme physical strain:

  • Paddling and beatings: Direct physical assaults.
  • Extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings”: Prolonged or punitive physical exercises that push well beyond normal conditioning, often to exhaustion or injury.
  • Sleep and food/water deprivation: Requiring pledges to stay awake for extended periods or denying them adequate sustenance.
  • Exposure to extreme elements: Forcing individuals into extreme cold or heat, or other dangerous environments.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: Designed to degrade and embarrass victims:

  • Forced nudity or partial nudity: Requiring students to expose themselves.
  • Simulated sexual acts: Such as “elephant walks” or “roasted pig” positions, often designed to ridicule and debase.
  • Degrading costumes or behaviors: Forcing individuals to wear humiliating outfits or perform embarrassing acts in public.
  • Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones: Using slurs, stereotypes, or forcing individuals to role-play in a demeaning manner.

• Psychological Hazing: Harms mental and emotional well-being:

  • Verbal abuse, threats, and isolation: Constant yelling, insults, intimidation, or cutting off contact with outside support systems.
  • Manipulation or forced confessions: Pressuring individuals to reveal sensitive personal information or “confess” to fabricated wrongdoing.
  • Public shaming: Humiliation on social media or during group meetings, designed to break down self-esteem.

• Digital/Online Hazing (The 2025 Evolution): Leveraging technology to exert control and inflict harm:

  • Group chat dares and “challenges”: Pledges are required to perform humiliating or dangerous acts for private group chats or widely shared on platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok.
  • Cyberbullying and harassment: Constant online criticism, ostracism, or the dissemination of embarrassing content.
  • Forced creation or sharing of compromising images/videos: Pressuring individuals to create or distribute indecent material.
  • 24/7 digital control: Constant text messages, phone calls, or demands for immediate online responses, leading to sleep deprivation and anxiety. Many organizations use apps like GroupMe, WhatsApp, or even Discord for this constant oversight.
  • Geo-tracking/location sharing: Requiring pledges to share their live location via apps like Find My Friends or Life360, under the guise of “safety” but often used for control and tracking.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

The misconception that hazing is limited to “frat boys” is dangerous. Hazing can, and does, occur in a wide array of campus organizations:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes social Greek letter organizations (Interfraternity Council – IFC, Panhellenic), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and multicultural Greek organizations.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Highly structured, tradition-rich environments can sometimes foster hazing under the guise of “discipline” or “earning your stripes.”
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs, and Student Organizations: Think groups like the Texas Cowboys or other university-specific spirit or honor societies.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to cheer, dance, swimming, and even band, many sports programs have faced hazing allegations.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: The pursuit of excellence and intense group bonding can sometimes lead to harmful “traditions.”
• Some Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Even groups seemingly focused on positive endeavors can develop harmful initiation practices.

Hazing persists in these diverse groups due to a complex interplay of social status, tradition, and intense secrecy. Despite widespread anti-hazing policies, the allure of belonging, the weight of tradition, and fear of reprisal often keep these dangerous practices alive, even when everyone “knows” it’s illegal.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Brewster County and across Texas, understanding the legal framework surrounding hazing is crucial. This helps clarify your rights and the potential avenues for accountability.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific, robust anti-hazing provisions within its Education Code, making it illegal to engage in hazing. In plain terms, Section 37.151 of the Texas Education Code defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed on or off campus, by one person or with others, against a student. This act must be for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office in, or maintaining membership in an organization whose members include students, and it must:

• Endanger the physical health or safety of a student (e.g., physical beatings, forced excessive exercise, forced consumption of alcohol or drugs).
• Substantially affect the mental health or safety of a student (e.g., extreme humiliation, severe intimidation, psychological manipulation).

Key points about Texas Hazing Law:

• Location is irrelevant: It can happen on or off campus.
• Harm can be physical or mental: Both are actionable under the law.
• Intent is broad: It doesn’t require malicious intent; simply being “reckless” (knowing the risk and doing it anyway) is sufficient.
• “Consent” is not a defense: As explicitly stated in Texas Education Code § 37.155, even if the victim “agreed” to the activity, it does not absolve the perpetrators or the organization of liability. The law recognizes the coercive environment of hazing.

Criminal Penalties (Texas Education Code § 37.152):

• Class B Misdemeanor (default): Applies to hazing that does not cause physical injury (punishable by up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,000).
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical treatment.
• State Jail Felony: If the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This means hazing can carry severe criminal consequences, including prison time, in tragic cases.
• Other criminal acts: Additionally, individuals can face charges for failing to report hazing if they are a member or officer and knew about it (misdemeanor), or for retaliating against someone who reports hazing (misdemeanor).

Organizational Liability (Texas Education Code § 37.153):

Organizations themselves (fraternities, sororities, clubs, teams) can also be criminally prosecuted for hazing if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing activities.
• An officer or member, acting in an official capacity, knew about the hazing and failed to report it to appropriate authorities.

Penalties for organizations can include fines up to $10,000 per violation, and universities can revoke recognition, effectively banning the organization from campus. This dual liability—individual and organizational—is critical for accountability.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (Texas Education Code § 37.154):

A significant provision encourages reporting: any person who, in good faith, reports a hazing incident to a university official or law enforcement is generally immune from civil or criminal liability that might result from that report. Furthermore, Texas law and university policies often provide amnesty for students who call 911 for medical emergencies, even if they were drinking underage or involved in the hazing themselves, prioritizing life-saving actions. This is intended to combat the “code of silence” that often surrounds hazing incidents.

Reporting by Educational Institutions (Texas Education Code § 37.156):

Texas colleges and universities are mandated to:

• Provide hazing prevention education to their students.
• Publish their anti-hazing policies.
• Maintain and publish annual reports of hazing violations and the disciplinary actions taken. This creates a public record that families, including those in Brewster County, can access to research an organization’s history. The University of Texas at Austin is a good example of a school that does this transparently (hazing.utexas.edu).

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It’s important to differentiate between criminal and civil legal actions, both of which can arise from hazing.

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (prosecutor) to seek justice and punish individuals. The focus is on upholding the law and deterring future criminal acts. Hazing-related criminal charges in Texas can include hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, and in the most tragic cases, involuntary manslaughter or negligent homicide.
• Civil Cases: These are brought by victims or their surviving families. The goal is monetary compensation for damages suffered and to hold responsible parties accountable. Civil claims often focus on theories of:
  • Negligence and Gross Negligence: Failure to exercise reasonable care, especially when there was a known or obvious risk.
  • Wrongful Death: When a fatality results from hazing.
  • Negligent Hiring/Supervision: If institutions failed to properly oversee staff or student organizations.
  • Premises Liability: If hazing occurred on property where the owner failed to maintain a safe environment.
  • Emotional Distress: For the severe psychological harm caused.

Significantly, criminal convictions are not required to pursue a civil case. Both legal paths can unfold simultaneously, with different burdens of proof and objectives.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also play an increasing role in holding institutions accountable for hazing.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This crucial federal legislation will require colleges and universities receiving federal funding to enhance their hazing prevention and reporting efforts. By approximately 2026, institutions will be mandated to:

  • Disclose hazing incidents more transparently in their annual crime reports.
  • Implement stronger hazing education for students and staff.
  • Maintain public data on hazing incidents, providing families with more accessible information.

• Title IX and the Clery Act:

  • Title IX: If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or includes gender-based hostility, it can trigger Title IX obligations. This can require universities to investigate promptly and address issues to ensure a safe educational environment.
  • Clery Act: This federal law mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal financial aid collect and disseminate campus crime statistics, issue timely warnings about crimes that pose a threat, and maintain a public crime log. Hazing incidents, particularly those involving assaults, alcohol/drug violations, or sexual misconduct, often fall under Clery reporting requirements.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining liability in hazing cases involves identifying all parties whose actions or inactions contributed to the harm. Multiple entities can be held responsible:

• Individual Students: Those who actively planned, enforced, facilitated, or carried out the hazing acts, or who engaged in a cover-up.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself, particularly if it operates as a recognized legal entity. Key individuals like officers or “pledge educators” can be especially culpable.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters, which sets policies, collects dues, and supervises local chapters. Liability often hinges on whether the national organization knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing at the local chapter or across its system, and failed to act.
• University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself, or its governing body, may be sued under theories such as:
  • Negligent Supervision: Failure to adequately oversee student organizations or athletic programs.
  • Failure to Warn: Not alerting students or parents to known dangers.
  • Deliberate Indifference: Actively disregarding hazing despite clear knowledge.
  • Title IX Violations: If related to sexual harassment or assault.
• Third Parties:
  • Property Owners/Landlords: Owners of off-campus houses, Airbnbs, or event spaces where hazing occurred, especially if they had knowledge of dangerous activities.
  • Alcohol Providers: Bars, stores, or individuals who illegally furnished alcohol to minors, potentially under “dram shop laws.”
  • Event Organizers or Security Companies: If their negligence contributed to an unsafe environment.

It is important to remember that every case is fact-specific, and not every party will be liable in every situation. An experienced hazing attorney meticulously investigates to identify all potentially responsible parties.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragic stories of hazing victims nationwide serve as stark reminders of the dangers involved and have shaped the legal landscape, including here in Texas. These anchor stories—many resulting in multi-million dollar settlements or significant legislative changes—provide powerful precedents for families in Brewster County and across Texas who are pursuing justice.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most common and deadly form of hazing involves forced or coerced alcohol consumption, leading to tragic and often preventable deaths.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died from severe brain injuries and a ruptured spleen after a brutal “bid acceptance” event. He was forced to drink dangerous amounts of alcohol, fell multiple times, and was left unattended for hours despite clear signs of distress. Security cameras within the Beta Theta Pi house documented the agonizing hours that passed before fraternity brothers finally called for help. The incident led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, civil litigation against the fraternity and university, and the enactment of the comprehensive Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania. For Texas families, this case underscores how universities and fraternity nationals can be held accountable for a culture of silence and delayed medical intervention, even caught on tape.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old FSU pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. He was reportedly given a full handle (1.75 liters) of hard liquor to consume. Multiple fraternity members were prosecuted on criminal hazing charges, and Florida State University temporarily suspended all Greek life activities in response, overhauling its anti-hazing policies. Coffey’s death, like Piazza’s, highlights the repeating script of “tradition”-based drinking nights leading to disaster and the severe consequences of extreme intoxication.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old LSU pledge, died after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game. Pledges were forced to drink dangerously high amounts of alcohol when they answered questions incorrectly. Gruver’s blood alcohol content was 0.495% at the time of his death. This tragedy led to the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making felony hazing a reality in the state. The case established a precedent that legislative change can follow public outrage when hazing’s dangers are clearly demonstrated. The Gruver family reached a $6.1 million verdict against one of the fraternity members and their insurer in 2024, showing that significant damages are possible.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” reveal event. Multiple fraternity members received criminal convictions for hazing-related offenses. In 2023, the Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement ($7 million from the Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and nearly $3 million from Bowling Green State University). This case demonstrates that universities, particularly public ones, can face substantial financial and reputational penalties when they fail to prevent hazing, and that national fraternities bear significant liability.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Hazing isn’t limited to alcohol. Physical abuse and dangerous rituals also claim lives and cause severe, lasting injuries.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old freshman, died after a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. He was blindfolded, forced to wear a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled in a brutal “glass ceiling” ritual. Members initially delayed calling for help, moving his unconscious body and attempting a cover-up. Multiple members were criminally convicted, and the Pi Delta Psi national fraternity was itself found criminally liable for aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, subsequently banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. This landmark case illustrates that serious hazing often occurs off-campus to evade detection, and national organizations can be held directly responsible.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life. High-profile athletic programs, often seen as symbols of school pride, can also harbor systemic abuse, raising critical questions about institutional oversight.

• Northwestern University Football Scandal (2023–2025): In 2023, former football players from Northwestern University came forward with allegations of widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. The incidents allegedly included forced sexual acts, racial discrimination, and other degrading rituals. This scandal led to the firing of long-time head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit confidentially with the university. Multiple players filed lawsuits against Northwestern and its coaching staff, asserting a culture where such behavior was tolerated or enabled. This case serves as a powerful reminder for families in Brewster County and across Texas that hazing extends beyond Greek life into major, money-generating athletic programs, prompting deep scrutiny of institutional accountability.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national stories, some with verdicts and settlements reaching into the tens of millions of dollars, reinforce several critical lessons for families in Brewster County and throughout Texas:

• Common Threads of Danger: Forced drinking, brutal physical abuse, sexualized humiliation, extreme deprivation, deliberate delays in medical care, and concerted cover-ups are systemic problems.
• Accountability Through Litigation: Significant reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements often only follow profound tragedy and persistent legal action. The Foltz, Gruver, Piazza, and Coffey families fought for justice not just for their sons, but to prevent future harm.
• Foreseeability and Pattern Evidence: When a local chapter in Texas, say at UT Austin or Texas A&M, engages in hazing tactics that have led to death or severe injury at other chapters of the same national organization, it strengthens arguments that the national body “knew” or “should have known” of the risks.
• You Are Not Alone: Families in Brewster County facing hazing concerns at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor are operating within a legal landscape shaped by these national lessons. Legal precedents from these cases can be pivotal in Texas courts.

TEXAS FOCUS: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

Families in Brewster County understand the importance of making informed decisions about higher education, whether their children attend Sul Ross State University right here in Alpine, or travel to larger institutions across Texas. When it comes to hazing, the universities our students attend each have their own cultures, policies, and histories with hazing incidents. Knowing these specifics can be vital for parents from communities like ours, including Marathon, Terlingua, and Fort Davis (just outside the county line), when their children embark on their college journeys.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

Families in Brewster County often have strong ties across Texas, and many consider the vibrant urban environment of Houston for their children’s education. The University of Houston is a significant institution, and understanding its environment is key.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston is a sprawling urban campus, attracting a diverse student body from across Texas and beyond, including students who may have traveled from Brewster County seeking a comprehensive university experience. It boasts a dynamic mix of commuter and residential students and a very active Greek life scene with multiple fraternities and sororities, alongside numerous other student organizations, cultural groups, and competitive sports clubs.

5.1.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

The University of Houston has a clear, no-tolerance stance on hazing, as reflected in its official student policies. Hazing is strictly prohibited, whether it occurs on-campus or at off-campus locations. UH’s policy explicitly forbids practices like forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, branding, or any acts designed to cause mental or physical distress as part of initiation or membership. The university provides various official channels for reporting hazing through the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). UH strives to publish some disciplinary information on its website related to hazing violations.

5.1.3 Example Incident & Response

Among the incidents documented at UH, a significant example involves Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) in 2016. Pledges were allegedly subjected to a prolonged hazing event where they were deprived of adequate food, water, and sleep. Disturbingly, during this period, one student suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table or a similar hard surface. This incident led to misdemeanor hazing charges against individuals involved and a university suspension for the chapter. While this particular case gained significant attention, UH has issued other disciplinary actions against fraternities for behavior described as “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” often involving alcohol misuse and policy violations, resulting in various levels of suspension or probation. These cases highlight UH’s proactive approach to suspending chapters found in violation, but also the ongoing challenges in completely eradicating such behaviors.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a student from Brewster County involved in a hazing incident at UH, legal proceedings could be multifaceted. Depending on the severity and location of the incident, law enforcement agencies such as the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) and/or the Houston Police Department (HPD) might be involved in criminal investigations. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County, given the university’s location. Potential defendants in such a case could include the individual students directly responsible, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority organization, and potentially the university itself, as well as any property owners if the hazing occurred off-campus.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For students attending UH and their families from Brewster County or anywhere else in Texas, taking specific steps is crucial:

• Familiarize yourselves with UH’s official hazing policies and the reporting channels available through the Dean of Students, UHPD, or online reporting forms.
• If you suspect hazing, document everything carefully: dates, times, locations, and involved individuals. Pay particular attention to any prior complaints or incidents involving the same organization at UH, as these can be crucial.
• Seek legal counsel experienced in Houston-based hazing cases. An attorney can help uncover prior disciplinary actions and internal files that may not be publicly accessible, strengthening any potential legal action.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University holds a special place in the hearts of many Texans, and its traditions—including the renowned Corps of Cadets—are powerful. Families from Brewster County often choose Texas A&M for its strong academic programs and unique culture.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M University in College Station is one of the largest universities in the nation, known for its deep-rooted traditions, loyal alumni network, and the highly revered Corps of Cadets. The campus culture is heavily influenced by these traditions, creating a strong sense of identity and loyalty. Alongside the Corps, the university hosts a large and active Greek life community, as well as countless other student organizations and sports clubs.

5.2.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

Texas A&M unequivocally prohibits hazing, articulating its stance clearly through its Student Conduct Code and specific regulations governing the Corps of Cadets and Greek organizations. Their definition of hazing aligns with Texas law, covering physical, mental, and humiliating acts. The university emphasizes reporting through official channels like the Dean of Student Life, the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD), and specific conduct offices for Greek life and the Corps. The university conducts educational programs and publishes information on hazing prevention.

5.2.3 Example Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced multiple hazing allegations across its diverse student groups.

• One notable incident involves Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE), which in 2021 was sued by two pledges who alleged they were subjected to brutal hazing. They claimed fraternity members poured a noxious mix of substances, including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, onto them during strenuous activity, causing severe chemical burns that required extensive skin graft surgeries. The local SAE chapter was suspended by the university, and the legal case brought by the pledges highlighted the extreme and dangerous forms hazing can take even in modern times.
• Further illustrating the issue’s breadth, in 2023, a former Corps of Cadets member filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing. This included claims of simulated sexual acts and being bound in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth, a disturbing echo of past, widely reported hazing incidents within the Corps. While the university asserted it addressed the matter internally, such cases underscore the tension between tradition and safety within highly ritualized organizations.

These incidents demonstrate that despite A&M’s strong policies, hazing persists in both Greek life and its iconic Corps.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a student from Brewster County impacted by hazing at Texas A&M, legal action would typically involve investigations by the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) or College Station Police Department. Civil lawsuits related to hazing at A&M would generally fall under the jurisdiction of courts in Bryan and Brazos County. Due to the diverse nature of organizations at A&M, potential defendants could extend beyond individual students and local chapter leaders to include national fraternity organizations, university officials (particularly in cases involving the Corps of Cadets), and possibly even property owners where off-campus hazing occurred.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Families from Brewster County with students at Texas A&M should actively:

• Review Texas A&M’s Student Conduct Code and the specific policies for Greek life and the Corps regarding hazing.
• Document any concerns immediately, including descriptions of the hazing, involved individuals, and dates. Screenshots of group chats are particularly valuable.
• Understand that cases involving traditions like the Corps of Cadets may require an attorney familiar with their unique hierarchical and often insular structures.
• Contact an experienced hazing attorney who can proficiently navigate both civil claims and potential criminal charges linked to hazing incidents at Texas A&M, helping to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is a flagship institution, attracting some of the brightest students from Brewster County and across the state. Its vibrant campus and Greek life scene also bring potential hazing risks.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin is a premier public university, widely recognized for its academic excellence, diverse student body, and deeply ingrained traditions. It boasts a massive and influential Greek life system, encompassing dozens of fraternities and sororities, along with countless other student organizations, clubs, and highly competitive athletic programs. Students from Brewster County thrive in this dynamic environment, but it’s important to recognize that, like any large institution, challenges can arise.

5.3.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

UT Austin maintains a rigorous anti-hazing policy that aligns closely with Texas state law, defining hazing broadly to include any physical or mental endangerment related to initiation or membership. The university explicitly prohibits forced substance use, physical abuse, sleep deprivation, and any degrading activities. One of UT’s distinctive features is its commitment to transparency: it publishes a detailed online list of Hazing Violations, documenting organizations, incident dates, specific conduct, and assigned sanctions. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).

5.3.3 Example Incident & Response

UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations page provides clear insight into ongoing challenges. For instance, Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) was cited in 2023 for hazing incidents where new members were directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, actions clearly intended to cause discomfort and humiliation. This resulted in the chapter being placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education. Other organizations, including spirit groups and clubs like the Texas Wranglers, have also faced sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, mock pledge-kidnapping, blindfolding, and other punishment-based practices targeting new members. UT’s transparency in listing these violations highlights its commitment to addressing the issue, but also underscores the persistent nature of hazing within its student body.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a student from Brewster County facing hazing at UT Austin, legal actions could involve criminal investigations by the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) or the Austin Police Department (APD), depending on the incident’s specifics and location. Civil lawsuits would likely be brought in courts within Travis County, where Austin is located. Potential defendants would typically include the individuals involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, and the university. UT’s comprehensive public log of prior hazing violations can be a crucial source of evidence in civil suits, demonstrating a pattern of misconduct and the university’s knowledge thereof.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

Families from Brewster County with students at UT Austin should:

• Regularly review UT’s Hazing Violations website (hazing.utexas.edu) to understand the history of organizations the student might join.
• Be proactive in discussing hazing issues with their student, emphasizing that UT’s specific reporting channels (Dean of Students, UTPD) are confidential and protected.
• Consult with an attorney experienced in Austin-based hazing cases. Legal counsel can leverage UT’s public records and conduct thorough investigations to build a robust case, utilizing the university’s own transparency as a legal tool.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University in Dallas is a distinctive private institution with a prominent Greek life system. For students from Brewster County attending SMU, understanding this environment is crucial.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Southern Methodist University is a private university located in University Park, a prestigious enclave within Dallas. Known for its strong academic reputation and beautiful campus, SMU is often characterized by its affluent student body and an extremely robust, often socially dominant, Greek life system. Many students from Brewster County may find themselves drawn to SMU’s academic programs and social scene.

5.4.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

SMU maintains a strict anti-hazing policy that is explicitly communicated through its student code of conduct. The university prohibits any action that subjects a student to physical or mental abuse, or any activity that is degrading or endangers health or safety, if related to initiation or continued membership in an organization. SMU emphasizes prevention and provides various reporting mechanisms, including the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the SMU Police Department. They also utilize confidential reporting systems, such as the Real Response platform, to encourage students to come forward with concerns.

5.4.3 Example Incident & Response

SMU has faced its share of hazing allegations, which often resonate widely given the university’s profile. An example is the Kappa Alpha Order incident in 2017. Following allegations that new members were subjected to hazing that included paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and severe sleep deprivation, the chapter was suspended for several years. This suspension greatly restricted their ability to recruit new members and operate on campus until around 2021. While SMU, as a private institution, may not publicize its disciplinary actions to the same extent as some public universities, these incidents demonstrate the university’s determination to sanction chapters. Such occurrences underscore the persistent nature of hazing in even highly regulated and elite Greek systems.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a student from Brewster County enduring hazing at SMU, legal action would typically involve investigations by the SMU Police Department or the Dallas Police Department. Civil lawsuits stemming from hazing at SMU would generally fall within the jurisdiction of courts in Dallas County. The status of SMU as a private university means it does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially more exposed to direct legal claims compared to public universities in similar situations. Potential defendants would include the individuals involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, and the university itself, as well as any property owners if the hazing occurred off-campus.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

Families from Brewster County with students at SMU should:

• Review SMU’s Student Code of Conduct and hazing policies, and understand the confidential reporting options available, such as the Real Response platform.
• Be aware that while SMU may not publish extensive incident logs publicly, its lack of sovereign immunity can simplify the path to holding the institution directly accountable in civil claims.
• Engage an attorney experienced in Dallas-based hazing cases. Legal counsel can leverage discovery processes to uncover internal university and fraternity records that may not be publicly accessible, but which are essential for building a strong case.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University presents a unique environment for students, including those from Brewster County, with its strong religious affiliation and high-profile history of addressing institutional misconduct.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University, located in Waco, is a private Baptist university renowned for its strong academic and faith-based community. Attracting students from across Texas and the nation, including those from Brewster County, Baylor’s culture is deeply shaped by its religious heritage. While it has an active Greek life, it also fosters numerous other student organizations and athletic programs. Baylor has faced intense scrutiny and made significant reforms in response to past high-profile scandals, particularly concerning its handling of sexual assault allegations.

5.5.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

Baylor University maintains a “zero tolerance” policy for hazing, explicitly outlining its prohibition in the university’s Student Code of Conduct. The policy strictly forbids any activity, physical or psychological, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, admission, affiliation, or continued membership. Reporting channels are available through the Student Conduct Administration, the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD), and through confidential reporting systems. Baylor emphasizes educational efforts and its commitment to ensuring a safe campus environment.

5.5.3 Example Incident & Response

Baylor University’s history includes periods of intense scrutiny over institutional oversight, particularly following its sexual assault scandal involving the football program. This context informs how hazing allegations are viewed. In 2020, for example, the Baylor baseball program saw 14 players suspended following a hazing investigation. These suspensions were reportedly staggered over the early part of the season to mitigate the impact on the team, but they underscored the university’s commitment to addressing hazing even within its prominent athletic programs. These incidents reflect Baylor’s ongoing efforts to rectify past oversight failures while navigating cultural and oversight challenges across its student life.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a student from Brewster County involved in a hazing incident at Baylor, criminal investigations would typically be handled by the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) or the Waco Police Department. Civil lawsuits would fall under the jurisdiction of courts in McLennan County, where Waco is located. Similar to SMU, as a private university, Baylor does not enjoy sovereign immunity, which can simplify the legal path to holding the institution directly accountable. Potential defendants would include individual perpetrators, the local student organization or athletic team, relevant national organizations, and the university itself. Baylor’s prior history of institutional challenges can sometimes inform how negligence and oversight claims are constructed in a hazing case.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

Families from Brewster County with students at Baylor should:

• Familiarize themselves with Baylor’s Student Code of Conduct and its specific anti-hazing policies, reviewing available reporting mechanisms.
• Be aware of Baylor’s heightened sensitivity to institutional misconduct and leverage official reporting channels if hazing occurs.
• Consult with an attorney experienced in Waco-based hazing cases. Legal counsel can effectively navigate the complexities of a private university’s internal processes and the legal avenues for seeking justice, particularly given Baylor’s history of institutional accountability challenges.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Understanding the role and historical patterns of national fraternities and sororities is crucial for families in Brewster County and across Texas when evaluating a hazing incident. Many local chapters at our state’s universities—UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor—are affiliated with larger national organizations. These national bodies often have a detailed history of hazing incidents and subsequent legal actions that profoundly influence how current cases are litigated.

Why National Histories Matter

When considering a hazing incident, it’s not just about what happened at the local chapter; it’s about what the national organization knew or should have known. Most national fraternities and sororities operate with:

• Comprehensive anti-hazing manuals and risk policies: These are usually developed in direct response to past tragedies, deaths, and catastrophic injuries. They know the patterns of forced drinking, brutal physical “traditions,” and humiliating rituals because these have occurred repeatedly within their own chapters across the country.
• A pattern of knowledge: If a Texas chapter (e.g., a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter at UT Austin) repeats the same type of hazing that led to a death or severe injury at another Pi Kappa Alpha chapter in a different state (like the Stone Foltz case at Bowling Green State), this creates a powerful argument of foreseeability. It suggests the national organization had prior knowledge of the danger and failed to adequately prevent it, thereby strengthening claims of negligence or even punitive damages against the national entity.

Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

While it’s impossible to list every fraternity and sorority and its full history, several national organizations have been repeatedly linked to severe hazing incidents. Here’s a brief look at some and their national patterns that affect Texas families:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity has a concerning national history of alcohol-related hazing. The most prominent example is the tragic death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University in 2021, where he died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume a bottle of whiskey. Another case, involving David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University in 2012, also centered on alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event. In Texas, a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter at UT Austin was cited as recently as 2023 for hazing involving strenuous calisthenics and forced milk consumption. These incidents, both nationally and in Texas, demonstrate a repeating pattern that can be crucial in proving foreseeability against the national organization.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): SAE has faced multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide over the decades. In 2021, at Texas A&M University, two pledges sued an SAE chapter alleging severe chemical burns from substances poured on them during hazing, requiring skin graft surgeries. More recently, in 2024, an exchange student sued a UT Austin SAE chapter for over $1 million following an alleged assault at a fraternity party, occurring while the chapter was already under suspension for prior violations. Nationally, there was a traumatic brain injury lawsuit filed against SAE at the University of Alabama in 2023. This ongoing pattern of severe injuries, including those with grave consequences, highlights a systemic issue that impacts local chapters in Texas.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): This fraternity was tragically linked to the death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University in 2017, where he died from extreme alcohol poisoning during a “Bible study” hazing game. This case directly led to Louisiana’s felony hazing statute. While we have not highlighted a recent, specific incident at a Texas chapter, the national history clearly defines a pattern of dangerous alcohol hazing that could be relevant to any Phi Delta Theta chapter in Texas, including those at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): This organization was involved in the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University in 2017, again from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” hazing event. The national fraternity has faced scrutiny and legal action for its role in preventing such tragedies. Like Phi Delta Theta, while specific recent details are not published for Texas branches, the national history provides critical context for any incident in Texas.

• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): This fraternity is infamously linked to the death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State University in 2017, a case that galvanized national attention on hazing due to the extreme alcohol consumption, falls, and tragic delay in seeking medical help. Like other nationals, this history creates a strong precedent that could be applied to any local chapter, including those at UH, Texas A&M, UT, or SMU.

• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ): This fraternity has faced various hazing allegations and suspensions at multiple universities, including a significant incident at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in 2017 involving paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation. This led to a multi-year suspension for the SMU chapter. These incidents suggest a pattern of physical and alcohol-related hazing sometimes seen within the organization, making its national history relevant for Texas families, including those in Brewster County.

This list is not exhaustive, but these examples paint a clear picture: many national organizations have a documented history of severe hazing that repeats across their chapters.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

For families in Brewster County pursuing a hazing claim against a local chapter at a Texas university, these national organizational histories are often invaluable.

• Proof of Foreseeability: When a national organization has experienced multiple similar hazing incidents leading to injuries or deaths across university campuses, it becomes exceedingly difficult for them to claim they “couldn’t have foreseen” the danger in Texas. This pattern evidence shows they had a clear duty to prevent such acts.
• Impact on Negligence Claims: This history is vital for arguing that the national organization was negligent in its oversight, training, or intervention strategies. It forces questions about whether they meaningfully enforced their anti-hazing policies or simply paid lip service to them.
• Insurance Coverage and Punitive Damages: Understanding this pattern can influence insurance coverage disputes (as insurers often try to deny coverage for “intentional acts”). It can also lay the groundwork for seeking punitive damages, which are intended to punish gross negligence or reckless indifference and deter future misconduct.

Our firm meticulously researches the national and local history of any organization involved in a hazing incident, building a comprehensive case that connects local actions to broader patterns of institutional failure.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Successfully pursuing a hazing case in civil court near Brewster County, or anywhere in Texas, requires meticulous investigation, a deep understanding of the law, and strategic litigation. At Attorney911, we know that evidence disappears quickly and institutions work to protect themselves. Our approach is comprehensive, focusing on thorough evidence collection, accurate damage assessment, and robust legal strategy.

Evidence

The strength of any hazing case hinges on the evidence presented. In the digital age, much of this evidence is now found on phones, computers, and social media platforms.

• Digital Communications: These are often the most critical pieces of evidence. We prioritize preserving:

  • Group Messaging Apps: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Snapchat group chats, and even fraternity-specific messaging platforms frequently contain planning, directives, bragging, or cover-up attempts related to hazing. These reveal who was involved, what was said, and when.
  • Text Messages & Direct Messages (DMs): Private conversations between members can show coercion, instructions, or even admissions of misconduct.
  • Emails: Official chapter communications often outline schedules, “new member education” plans, or directives that are thinly veiled hazing instructions.
    Our firm understands how to work with digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages and ensure screenshots are properly authenticated. We strongly advise families from Brewster County to immediately secure all digital communications if they suspect hazing, as details disappear quickly.

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is powerful and often undeniable. This includes:

  • Content filmed by members during hazing events, often shared within private group chats.
  • Footage of injuries, humiliating acts, or forced alcohol consumption.
  • Security camera footage from houses, event venues, or even Ring/doorbell cameras that might capture students arriving or leaving events in distress.

• Internal Organization Documents: Through legal discovery, we can compel organizations to produce:

  • Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, or “tradition” lists that outline hazing rituals.
  • Emails or texts among officers discussing “what we’ll do to pledges.”
  • National anti-hazing policies, training materials, and risk management guidelines.

• University Records: Public records requests and subpoenas can uncover vital information from the institution, including:

  • Prior conduct files related to the specific organization or individuals, showing a history of probation, suspensions, or earlier warnings.
  • Incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices.
  • Clery Act reports and other disclosures that reveal patterns of campus misconduct.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the extent of the victim’s suffering and injury:

  • Emergency room reports, ambulance records, and hospitalization notes.
  • Surgical reports, ongoing treatment plans, and physical therapy progression.
  • Toxicology reports revealing blood alcohol content or drug presence.
  • Psychological evaluations that diagnose Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, or document suicidal ideation, which are crucial for proving emotional distress damages.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts tie all the pieces together. We work to identify and interview:

  • Other pledges, current members, roommates, Resident Assistants (RAs), coaches, or trainers who observed the hazing or its aftermath.
  • Former members who may have left the organization due to hazing and are willing to speak out.
  • Bystanders at events or in the vicinity who saw students in distress.

Damages

When hazing causes harm, victims and their families in Brewster County are entitled to compensation for the wide range of losses suffered. These damages can be broadly categorized as economic (quantifiable financial losses) and non-economic (subjective, but legally compensable losses).

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs associated with treatment, including:

  • Emergency room visits and ambulance transport.
  • Hospitalization, ICU stays, and surgical procedures.
  • Ongoing physical therapy, counseling, and mental health support.
  • Medications, adaptive equipment, and even long-term care plans for catastrophic injuries like brain damage or organ failure.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can disrupt a student’s academic and career trajectory:

  • Lost wages if the victim or a parent (acting as caregiver) had to take time off work.
  • Missed semesters, delayed graduation, or withdrawal from school.
  • Loss of scholarships or diminished future earning capacity if injuries are permanent or if education is significantly set back.

• Non-Economic Damages: These address the profound, non-financial suffering:

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: The immediate and ongoing pain caused by injuries.
  • Emotional Distress, Trauma, and Humiliation: This includes diagnoses like PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, recurrent nightmares, and the deep emotional scarring from public humiliation.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: An inability to participate in previously cherished activities, social withdrawal, or a general diminished quality of life.

• Wrongful Death Damages (For Families): In the tragic event of a hazing-related death, families in Brewster County can recover:

  • Funeral and burial costs.
  • Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided.
  • Loss of companionship, comfort, tuition and guidance, and the profound grief experienced by surviving parents, siblings, or spouses. Our firm has extensive experience in wrongful death cases, as detailed at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/, understanding the full scope of these losses.

It is important to note that while we describe types of damages, we do not promise or predict specific dollar amounts. Each case is evaluated individually based on its unique facts and the full extent of harm suffered.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing litigation often involves multiple defendants, each with their own legal counsel and insurance policies.

• Insurance Coverage: National fraternities, universities, and sometimes even individual officers typically carry liability insurance. However, insurers often try to argue that hazing or “intentional acts” are excluded from coverage. This is where our firm’s unique experience, particularly with attorney Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense lawyer, is invaluable. We understand how to challenge these exclusions, maximize coverage, and ensure our clients’ claims are not unjustly denied.
• Strategic Litigation: Our strategy involves identifying all potentially liable parties—individuals, local chapters, national organizations, universities, and even third-party property owners—and pursuing claims against each. This comprehensive approach maximizes the potential for a just recovery. We build cases that force accountability, as our complex litigation experience, including against corporate giants in cases like the BP Texas City explosion, demonstrates.

Practical Guides & FAQs

When hazing impacts a family in Brewster County or elsewhere in Texas, knowing what to do, who to trust, and what legal rights are available can feel overwhelming. Here are practical guides and answers to common questions.

8.1 For Parents: Navigating the Hazing Crisis

For parents in Brewster County, recognizing the subtle and overt signs of hazing and responding effectively is paramount.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be observant for these indicators:

  • Unexplained injuries or “accidents”: Bruises, cuts, burns, or sprains that don’t have a clear or consistent explanation.
  • Sudden exhaustion and sleep deprivation: Your child is constantly tired, staying up all night, or being abruptly woken at odd hours.
  • Drastic changes in mood: Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, withdrawal from family or old friends.
  • Secret phone use: Constant monitoring of group chats, anxiety if they miss a notification, or secrecy about who they’re messaging.
  • Fear of missing “mandatory” events: Even if they interfere with academics or sleep.
  • Financial strain: Sudden requests for unexplained money, forced purchases, or significant “fines.”
  • Defensiveness: When asked about the group or specific activities, they shut down or become evasive.
  • Loss of interest in studies or social life: Grades dropping, missing classes, or isolating themselves from non-group activities.

• How to Talk to Your Child:

  • Approach the conversation with empathy, not accusation. State your observations and concerns directly, but lovingly.
  • Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with [group name]?” or “Is there anything happening that makes you uncomfortable?”
  • Reassure them that their safety and well-being are your highest priorities, far above fitting in or organizational loyalty. Let them know you will support them no matter what.

• If Your Child is Hurt:

  • Seek immediate medical attention. Prioritize their physical and mental health.
  • Document everything. Take clear, date-stamped photos of any injuries. Ask your child to screenshot any relevant texts, group chats, or social media posts and send them to you immediately.
  • Write down everything your child tells you about what happened, who was involved, where, and when.
  • Save any relevant physical items, like damaged clothing, or receipts for forced purchases.

• Dealing with the University:

  • When communicating with university administrators, document every interaction: who you spoke to, when, and what was discussed. Email is often best for this.
  • Ask direct questions about the university’s prior knowledge of hazing within the specific organization and what actions the school has (or hasn’t) taken in response to past complaints.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer:

  • If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm.
  • If you feel the university or the organization is minimizing, stonewalling, or hiding information about what happened.
  • If you believe there’s an attempt to cover up the incident or intimidate your child.
  • Contact Attorney911 (1-888-ATTY-911) immediately to protect your rights and explore your legal options.

8.2 For Students / Pledges: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

For students in Brewster County attending Texas colleges, understanding your rights and how to protect yourself is vital.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition?

  • Ask yourself: Would I do this if I had a genuine choice, without fear of exclusion or punishment? Am I being forced to drink, endure pain, or perform humiliating acts? Is this activity hidden from the public or administrators? If the answer is yes to any of these, it’s hazing, regardless of how it’s framed as “bonding” or “tradition.”
  • Review Appendix A, “Hazing Tactics Encyclopedia,” to see how modern hazing is defined.

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story:

  • Under Texas Education Code § 37.155, consent is explicitly not a defense to hazing. The law recognizes that in environments with intense peer pressure, power imbalances, and fear of social exclusion, “consent” is not truly voluntary. You are legally protected even if you felt pressured to “agree.”

• Exiting and Reporting Safely:

  • Your safety is paramount. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
  • You have the right to leave any organization or activity at any time. If you fear retaliation, notify a trusted adult (parent, professor, RA, or Attorney911) before you officially withdraw.
  • Report hazing privately or anonymously through your university’s Dean of Students office, campus police, or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293).
  • Document everything: Take screenshots of all relevant messages, photos, and videos.

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty:

  • Texas law and many university policies provide immunity for individuals who report hazing in good faith. Additionally, most schools have amnesty policies for students who call for help in a medical emergency, protecting them from punishment for underage drinking or other minor offenses.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses: Breaking the Silence

If you are a current or former member of an organization where hazing is occurring or has occurred, you face a unique moral and legal dilemma.

• Your Role in Accountability: Your testimony and evidence are often crucial to preventing future harm and saving lives. You may feel guilt or fear academic/social repercussions, but speaking out can make a profound difference.
• Seeking Legal Guidance: While you are protected for good-faith reporting, you may benefit from your own legal advice to understand your rights and potential exposure as a witness or co-defendant. Our team at Attorney911 can advise on these complex situations; Ralph Manginello’s expertise with the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association means we understand criminal and civil exposure. Your cooperation can be a powerful step toward justice and accountability.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For families in Brewster County pursuing a hazing claim, avoiding common pitfalls is as critical as collecting evidence. The defense will exploit any misstep. Our firm highly recommends reviewing these critical errors to protect your case. Attorney911 has an educational video that delves into these mistakes; you can watch “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” for more details: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

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 a cover-up to a court, can be construed as evidence spoliation, and makes proving your claim nearly impossible.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content.

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This immediately puts them on high alert; they will lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defenses.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in private, then call a lawyer before any direct confrontation.

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms:

   • What universities do: They often pressure families to sign waivers or agree to “internal resolutions” quickly.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your right to pursue a lawsuit, and early settlements are almost always far below the actual value of your case.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or the organization without an experienced hazing 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 will screenshot everything; inconsistencies or emotional posts can harm your credibility and potentially waive certain legal privileges.
   • What to do instead: Document your experiences privately. Let your attorney advise on controlled, strategic public messaging if appropriate.

5. Letting Your Child Go Back for “One Last Meeting”:

   • What fraternities say: “Come meet with us before you do anything drastic.”
   • Why it’s wrong: They will pressure, intimidate, or try to extract statements from your child that can be used against your case.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication should cease or go through your attorney.

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, witnesses graduate, the statute of limitations can run out, and the university’s primary goal is often to control the narrative and protect its reputation, not necessarily to ensure maximum compensation for victims.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW and consult a lawyer immediately. The university’s internal process is separate from seeking real accountability or civil justice.

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements can be used against you, and early settlement offers are typically lowball attempts to minimize their payout.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with them and state, “My attorney will contact you.”

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin) have some sovereign immunity protections, but crucial exceptions exist for gross negligence, claims related to Title IX violations (e.g., if the hazing involved sexual harassment), and when individual employees are sued in their personal capacity. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections, making direct claims sometimes more straightforward. Every case is unique and depends on specific facts; contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It certainly can be. Texas law primarily classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor. However, it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Additionally, individuals who are officers of an organization and fail to report hazing can face criminal charges.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes. Under Texas Education Code § 37.155, consent is explicitly not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “agreement” made under duress, intense peer pressure, or fear of exclusion within a power-imbalanced group is not true voluntary consent. Your child is protected by law even if they felt pressured to “go along with it.”

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”
  Generally, there is a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of the injury or death for most personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits in Texas. However, certain legal principles, like the “discovery rule,” can sometimes extend this period if the harm or its cause was not immediately apparent. In cases involving cover-ups or deliberate concealment, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is extremely critical in hazing cases—evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to discuss your specific deadline. Our firm’s video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?”, provides further information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of hazing does not absolve individuals or organizations of liability. Universities and national fraternities or sororities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge of practices, and the foreseeability of harm, even if the incident occurred off-campus. Many major national hazing cases, such as Michael Deng’s death during a Pi Delta Psi retreat or Collin Wiant’s death at an “unofficial” Sigma Pi house, occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  While we cannot guarantee absolute anonymity, many hazing cases are resolved through confidential settlements before going to trial. Our firm prioritizes your family’s privacy and works to secure sealed court records and confidential settlement terms throughout the process. We will discuss strategies for balancing public accountability with your family’s desire for privacy.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in Brewster County or anywhere across Texas faces the devastating impact of hazing, you need far more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who intimately understand how powerful institutions—national fraternities, wealthy universities, well-funded athletic programs—fight back, and how to effectively overcome their defenses. You need to know that your legal team has the experience to take on a system designed to protect itself.

At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, we bring a powerful and unique blend of expertise to hazing cases. Our firm, based in Houston with offices in Austin and Beaumont, stands ready to serve families throughout Texas, including our rural communities like Brewster County. We understand that hazing at Texas universities can impact any family, regardless of where they call home.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Hazing Cases:

• Insurance Insider Advantage with Lupe Peña: Associate Attorney Lupe Peña’s invaluable experience as a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm means we know exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies operate. She understands their valuation strategies (and how they often undervalue hazing claims), their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and their settlement playbooks. Simply put, we know their playbook because we used to run it. Lupe’s complete professional background can be reviewed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions with Ralph Manginello: Our Managing Partner, Ralph Manginello, has a proven track record of taking on some of the largest defendants. He was one of the few Texas firms involved in the complex BP Texas City explosion litigation, demonstrating his capability for intricate, high-stakes cases against massive corporations. His extensive federal court experience (including the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their well-resourced defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar entities and won; we know how to fight powerful defendants. Ralph’s comprehensive credentials are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, collaborating with economists to accurately value loss of life and future earning potential. Our experience extends to cases involving catastrophic injuries, where we meticulously analyze lifetime care needs for brain injury or permanent disability victims. We don’t settle cheaply; we build cases that compel significant accountability and rightful compensation. For more insights into our approach to these sensitive cases, visit https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.

• Dual Civil & Criminal Hazing Expertise: Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides our firm with a unique perspective on hazing cases that often involve both civil claims and criminal charges. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation and can uniquely advise not only victims but also witnesses and former members who may face dual exposure. For more on our criminal defense capabilities, see https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.

• Unmatched Investigative Depth: Modern hazing cases demand cutting-edge investigative techniques. We deploy a network of experts, including digital forensics specialists to recover deleted group chats and social media evidence, medical experts to detail injuries, and psychologists to assess emotional trauma. We know how to subpoena national fraternity records to uncover patterns of prior incidents and meticulously sift through university files through discovery and public records requests. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does. Our firm also creates educational content on these topics, including “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs.

We know this is one of the hardest things a family can endure. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. Our approach is not about bravado or quick settlements but about thorough investigation, strategic litigation, and achieving real accountability.

Your Path to Justice Starts Here:

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or another institution—we want to hear from you. Families in Brewster County, from Alpine to Marathon, and throughout the surrounding regions deserve answers and accountability when their children are harmed by dangerous, illegal hazing practices.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to what happened without judgment, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward. We offer a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. You can also learn more about how contingency fees work by watching our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story with empathy and without judgment.
• We will review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• We will explain your legal options: whether to pursue a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what you can expect during the legal process.
• We will answer all your questions, including those about fees (remember, we work on a contingency basis).
• There is absolutely no pressure to hire us on the spot—take the time you need to make an informed decision.
• Everything you share with us during your consultation is strictly confidential. Our commitment to client communication is also reflected in our video, “Will You Keep Me Updated on My Case?”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JrQowOLv1k.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm today:

• Call Toll-Free: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct Line: (713) 528-9070
• Cell: (713) 443-4781 (for immediate or after-hours needs)
• Visit Our Website: https://attorney911.com
• Email Our Partners: ralph@atty911.com or lupe@atty911.com (for Spanish language services)

Hablamos Español: If you prefer to discuss your case in Spanish, please contact Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

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