The Definitive Guide to Hazing Litigation for Brownwood, Texas Families: Know Your Rights, Protect Your Student

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

The phone call every parent in Brownwood fears finally comes. Your child, the one you sent off to college with so much hope, is on the line, their voice trembling. They’re talking about “pledge activities,” “tradition,” and “just fitting in,” but between the lines, you hear exhaustion, fear, and pain. They mention late-night “workouts” that leave them unable to walk. They describe being forced to drink until they’re sick. They show you texts demanding instant obedience at all hours. As a Brownwood parent—whether your child attends nearby Howard Payne University or has ventured to Texas A&M, UT Austin, or the University of Houston—you suddenly face a terrifying reality: your child may be a victim of hazing.

Right now, in Harris County, we are actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. In November 2025, we filed a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who nearly died after brutal hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. As detailed in the Click2Houston investigation and ABC13 coverage, Bermudez was subjected to horrific abuse: forced to carry a degrading “pledge fanny pack,” sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” made to lie in vomit-soaked grass, and forced through extreme workouts that caused rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. His urine turned brown. He was hospitalized for four days. He faces permanent kidney damage.

This is not an isolated incident from some distant campus. This is happening right now in Texas to students from communities like ours. Brownwood families send their children to universities across our state, and those students encounter the same national fraternities, the same dangerous traditions, and the same institutional failures we see in the UH case.

This comprehensive guide exists for you. We are The Manginello Law Firm (Attorney911), and we represent hazing victims and their families across Texas. This guide will explain what hazing really looks like in 2025, outline Texas hazing laws, document patterns at major Texas universities, and provide Brownwood families with the knowledge needed to protect their children and pursue accountability.

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

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

For Brownwood parents who may remember college hazing as “harmless pranks,” the reality in 2025 is far more dangerous, sophisticated, and hidden. Hazing has evolved into a systematic practice of coercion, humiliation, and abuse that operates in the shadows of digital communication and off-campus retreats.

The Modern Definition: Coercion, Not Consent

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act—whether on or off campus—that endangers a student’s mental or physical health for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in any organization. The critical legal principle that Brownwood families must understand: “Consent” is not a defense in Texas. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the power imbalance, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion create a coercive environment that the law recognizes as invalid consent.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (The Gateway)
These behaviors establish power imbalances and normalize control:

Mandatory “servant” duties (cleaning, chauffeuring at all hours)
Enforced silence or restricted speech
Forced attendance that interferes with academics
Social isolation from non-members
Digital control: Required 24/7 group chat monitoring, location sharing, instant response demands

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (The Abuse)
Acts causing emotional or physical discomfort:

Sleep deprivation through late-night “meetings”
Food/water restriction or forced consumption (milk, hot sauce, excessive amounts)
Verbal abuse, humiliation, “roasting” sessions
Forced physical activity beyond safe limits (“smokings,” extreme calisthenics)
Public degradation in person or online

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (Life-Threatening)
Activities with high potential for serious injury or death:

Forced alcohol consumption: “Big/Little” nights, lineup drinking games, chugging challenges
Physical beatings: Paddling, punching, “gladiator” matches
Sexualized abuse: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault
Dangerous “tests”: Blindfolded tackles, extreme environmental exposure, kidnapping
Chemical hazing: Exposure to cleaners or other harmful substances

The Digital Transformation

Today’s hazing lives on smartphones:

GroupMe/WhatsApp/Signal for constant demands and humiliation
Snapchat/Instagram for degrading challenges and public shaming
Location tracking through Find My Friends or Life360
Deleted evidence: Members are coached to use disappearing messages
Social media policing: Control over what pledges can post

Who Hazes? It’s Not Just Fraternities

While fraternities feature prominently in headlines, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

Sororities (though often less physically violent)
Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs
Athletic teams (football, baseball, cheer, swimming)
Marching bands and spirit groups
Academic and cultural organizations
Even some service and honors groups

For Brownwood families with children at Howard Payne University or other Texas campuses, understanding that hazing can occur in any organization with a power hierarchy is crucial.

Texas Hazing Law: What Brownwood Families Need to Know

Texas has specific anti-hazing statutes in the Education Code (Chapter 37, Subchapter F). These laws govern cases involving students from Brownwood attending any Texas university.

The Legal Definition (Texas Education Code §37.151)

Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of the student, AND
Occurs for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

Key implications for Brownwood families:

Location doesn’t matter (on-campus, off-campus at an Airbnb, or even back in Brownwood during break)
Mental harm counts as much as physical harm
“Reckless” behavior is enough—they don’t need to have intended harm
Consent is not a defense (§37.155)—your child saying “yes” doesn’t make it legal

Criminal Penalties (§37.152)

Texas treats hazing as a criminal offense with escalating severity:

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing without serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

Additional criminal exposure:

Failure to report hazing if you’re a member/officer who knew about it
Retaliation against someone who reports hazing
Furnishing alcohol to minors (common in hazing cases)
Assault, battery, or manslaughter in severe cases

Organizational Liability (§37.153)

The fraternity/sorority itself can face criminal prosecution if:

The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
An officer/member acting officially knew about hazing and failed to report it

Penalties include fines up to $10,000 per violation and potential university ban.

Critical Protections: Good Faith Reporting (§37.154)

A person who in good faith reports hazing to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from the report. This “amnesty” provision is crucial—it means your child can call for help without fear of getting in trouble for underage drinking or participation.

How Texas Compares to Other States

Texas has a strong but middle-ground approach:

Stronger than some: Clear criminal penalties, consent-not-a-defense provision
Weaker than others: Pennsylvania (Piazza Law), Louisiana (Max Gruver Act), and Ohio (Collin’s Law) have more aggressive felony provisions and higher penalties
Texas advantage: The law applies equally to all organizations (not just Greek life)

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

The horrific hazing that occurred to Leonel Bermudez at UH follows patterns seen nationwide. Understanding these patterns helps Brownwood families recognize that what happened to their child is part of a systemic problem—not an isolated incident.

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (2021)

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

Max Gruver – Louisiana State University (2017)

Phi Delta Theta “Bible study” drinking game
Wrong answers = forced drinking
Died with BAC of 0.495%
$6.1 million verdict for family
Led to Max Gruver Act (Louisiana felony hazing statute)

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University (2017)

Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother” night
Pledge given handle of liquor
Died from acute alcohol poisoning
FSU suspended all Greek life temporarily

The Physical Abuse Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College (2013)

Pi Delta Psi retreat in Pocono Mountains
Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
Died from traumatic brain injury
Fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
Banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri (2021)

Phi Gamma Delta “pledge dad reveal” night
Forced excessive alcohol consumption
Suffered permanent, severe brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
Settlements with 22 defendants, reportedly multi-million dollar total
Requires 24/7 care for life

What These Cases Mean for Brownwood Families

Patterns repeat: The same fraternities (Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi) engage in similar conduct across the country
Nationals have notice: Headquarters know these patterns exist but often fail to prevent them
Cover-ups are common: Delayed medical care, destroyed evidence, coached witnesses
Accountability is possible: Multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts show courts take hazing seriously
Your case matters: Every lawsuit adds to the pattern evidence that forces institutional change

Texas Universities: Hazing Realities at Schools Brownwood Families Attend

Brownwood students attend universities across Texas. Here’s what you need to know about hazing at the schools most relevant to our community.

Howard Payne University: Our Local Campus

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Located right here in Brownwood, Howard Payne University serves many local students. While smaller than state flagship universities, HPU has Greek life and student organizations where hazing can occur. The proximity means Brownwood families may notice warning signs more quickly but may also feel pressure to avoid “making waves” in our close-knit community.

Hazing Policy & Reporting:
HPU prohibits hazing in all forms. Reporting channels include:

Dean of Students Office
Campus Safety & Police
Anonymous reporting systems

What Brownwood Parents Should Know:

Small campus dynamics: Everyone knows everyone, which can increase pressure to stay silent
Local connections: University staff, fraternity advisors, and members may be part of our community
Immediate access: You can physically visit campus quickly if concerns arise
Dual roles: Some local professionals may serve as chapter advisors while also being community leaders

If Hazing Occurs at HPU:

Evidence preservation is equally critical
The same Texas laws apply
National fraternity headquarters (if involved) can still be held liable
Contact Attorney911 immediately: 1-888-ATTY-911

University of Houston: The Flagship Case in Our State

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
UH is a large urban campus with active Greek life encompassing IFC fraternities, Panhellenic sororities, NPHC (Divine Nine), and multicultural organizations. Its commuter/residential mix creates complex dynamics where oversight can be challenging.

The Leonel Bermudez Case – What Happened:
Our firm currently represents Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against:

University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents
Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
Beta Nu housing corporation
13 individual fraternity leaders/members

The Hazing Conduct:

“Pledge fanny pack” rule: Carried 24/7 with condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices, humiliating items
Extreme physical abuse: Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, “save-your-brother” drills
Cold-weather exposure in underwear
Lying in vomit-soaked grass
Being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”
Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting, then repeated sprints
Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion
Another pledge hog-tied face-down on a table with object in mouth for over an hour

Medical Catastrophe:
Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure. He passed brown urine, couldn’t stand without help, and was hospitalized for four days. Lab tests showed critically high creatine kinase levels. He faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.

Institutional Response:

Nov 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspends Beta Nu chapter
Nov 14, 2025: Chapter members vote to surrender their charter; chapter shut down
UH labels conduct “deeply disturbing”, promises disciplinary measures up to expulsion and cooperation with law enforcement

Why This Matters for Brownwood Families:

Active Texas litigation: We’re fighting this case right now
Pattern evidence: Shows what national fraternities permit
University liability: UH owned/controlled chapter house and failed to prevent known hazards
Medical reality: Hazing causes permanent, life-altering injuries

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Texas A&M’s unique Corps of Cadets tradition and massive Greek system create multiple environments where hazing can occur. The university’s emphasis on tradition can sometimes enable abusive practices.

Documented Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

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

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023):

Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts
Bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth
Sought over $1 million in damages
A&M stated it handled matter under its rules

What Brownwood Parents Should Know:

Dual systems: Both Greek life and Corps have documented hazing issues
Tradition defense: “This is how it’s always been done” is common but legally invalid
Medical emergencies: Know that A&M has good-faith reporting protections
Geographic consideration: College Station is accessible from Brownwood for in-person consultations

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Patterns

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
UT Austin has approximately 60 fraternity/sorority chapters and maintains one of the most transparent hazing reporting systems in Texas through its public violations page.

Public Hazing Violations (Examples):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023):

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

Texas Wranglers (Spirit Group):

Sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing
Multiple year probation

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (2024):

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

UT’s Public Reporting Advantage:

hazing.utexas.edu publishes violations, sanctions, and reports
This transparency helps establish pattern evidence in lawsuits
Shows university knowledge of recurring problems

For Brownwood Families with UT Students:

Check the database: See if your child’s organization has prior violations
Pattern matters: Multiple violations strengthen negligence claims
Austin jurisdiction: Cases may involve UTPD, Austin PD, or Travis County courts
Evidence preservation is critical: Download the public violation reports

Southern Methodist University: Private Campus Dynamics

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
SMU’s affluent private campus environment and strong Greek presence create unique dynamics where social pressure and reputation protection can complicate hazing reporting.

Documented Incident:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017):

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

Private University Considerations:

Less public transparency than state schools
Different liability standards (no sovereign immunity)
May use internal adjudication processes
Discovery is crucial: Legal requests can uncover internal reports

Baylor University: Religious Context and History

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Baylor’s religious identity and recent history with athletic scandals create a complex environment for addressing hazing and abuse.

Documented Incident:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020):

14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Suspensions staggered over early season
Part of broader pattern of accountability issues at Baylor

Considerations for Brownwood Families:

Religious context: May affect reporting decisions and institutional response
Waco jurisdiction: McLennan County courts may hear cases
Pattern evidence: Baylor’s history with institutional responses to abuse may be relevant
Proximity: Waco is relatively accessible from Brownwood for legal consultations

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: What Brownwood Families Are Up Against

When your child joins a fraternity or sorority in Texas, they’re not just joining a campus club. They’re entering a complex network of legally recognized organizations with insurance policies, national headquarters, housing corporations, and alumni foundations. Understanding this ecosystem is crucial for holding the right parties accountable.

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Our Investigative Advantage

At Attorney911, we maintain a proprietary database of Texas Greek organizations compiled from public records. This gives us—and your family—an immediate investigative advantage. Here’s what exists just in the official records:

Statewide Snapshot:

1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metros
125+ Texas-registered entities in IRS B83 filings (fraternities, sororities, housing corporations)
96 Texas university campuses with Greek life presence

For Brownwood and Central Texas Families:
While Brownwood itself is home to Howard Payne University, our students often attend schools in these metro areas:

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510 Greek Organizations
Examples from public records:

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity, EIN 742911848, Fort Worth, TX 76244
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc, EIN 741380362, Fort Worth, TX 76147
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, EIN 521278573, Dallas, TX 75241

Austin-Round Rock Metro: 154 Greek Organizations
Examples:

Chi Omega Fraternity, EIN 740555581, Austin, TX 78705 (house corporation)
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, EIN 463831593, Austin, TX 78723 (Texas State University chapter)
Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity – Texas Rho Corp., Austin, TX (UT chapter house corporation)

College Station-Bryan Metro: 42 Greek Organizations
Examples:

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc, EIN 133048786, College Station, TX 77845
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, EIN 900293166, College Station, TX 77843 (Texas A&M University chapter)
Eta Alpha House Corporation of Kappa Delta Sorority, EIN 742930349, College Station, TX 77840

What This Means for Your Case:

Multiple liable entities: Beyond the campus chapter, there may be housing corporations, alumni associations, and national headquarters
Insurance coverage: Each entity may have different insurance policies
Texas jurisdiction: Many national organizations have Texas-registered entities subject to our courts
Pattern establishment: We can track organizations across multiple campuses and incidents

National Fraternity Patterns: The Same Organizations, Same Problems

The fraternities and sororities on Texas campuses are chapters of national organizations with documented hazing histories. This isn’t coincidence—it’s pattern.

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ):

National pattern: Stone Foltz death (BGSU), David Bogenberger death (NIU)
Texas presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor, Texas Tech
Liability insight: National HQ settled Foltz case for $7M, showing recognition of responsibility

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ):

National pattern: Multiple hazing deaths, traumatic brain injury case (Alabama), chemical burns (Texas A&M)
Texas presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU
Notorious history: Once called “the deadliest fraternity” by Bloomberg

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

National pattern: Andrew Coffey death (FSU)
Texas presence: Chapter at UH (Beta Nu – now closed from Bermudez case)
Current litigation: We are actively suing their national headquarters in the Bermudez case

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

National pattern: Max Gruver death (LSU)
Texas presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor
Legal impact: $6.1M verdict in Gruver case led to Louisiana felony hazing law

Why National Histories Matter Legally:

Foreseeability: Nationals knew or should have known these patterns exist
Negligent supervision: Failure to prevent known dangerous traditions
Punitive damages: Reckless disregard for student safety
Insurance coverage: National policies may provide additional recovery sources

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Realistic Expectations

If your Brownwood family is facing a hazing situation, understanding the legal process can reduce anxiety and help you make informed decisions. Here’s how we build hazing cases at Attorney911.

Critical Evidence: What Wins Cases in 2025

Digital Evidence (Most Important):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, Signal, iMessage, Discord, fraternity apps
Screenshots with timestamps and sender names visible
Deleted message recovery through digital forensics
Social media: Instagram stories, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook
Location data: Find My Friends, Life360, Snapchat Maps
Email correspondence with nationals or advisors

Physical Evidence:

Injury photographs with scale reference (coin, ruler)
Medical records explicitly stating “hazing” as cause
Objects used: Paddles, alcohol bottles, props, costumes
Clothing with stains or damage
Receipts for forced purchases

Institutional Records:

University conduct files (obtained through discovery)
Campus police reports
National fraternity risk management files
Prior incident reports at same or other chapters
Training materials and policy manuals

Witness Testimony:

Other pledges (often afraid but may cooperate with protection)
Former members who quit
Roommates, RAs, friends who noticed changes
Medical providers who treated injuries
Expert witnesses: Medical specialists, Greek life culture experts, economists

The Damages Framework: What Can Be Recovered

Economic Damages (Quantifiable):

Medical expenses: ER, hospitalization, surgery, ongoing therapy
Future medical care: Lifelong treatment for permanent injuries
Lost educational costs: Tuition for semesters missed or withdrawn
Lost earning capacity: Reduced lifetime earnings from disability
Therapy and counseling: PTSD, depression, anxiety treatment

Non-Economic Damages (Substantial but Subjective):

Physical pain and suffering from injuries
Emotional distress: Humiliation, fear, trauma
Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in activities they loved
Reputational harm: Social stigma and embarrassment

Wrongful Death Damages (If Tragedy Occurs):

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of financial support to family
Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
Grief and emotional suffering of family members

Punitive Damages (When Conduct is Egregious):

Purpose: Punish and deter particularly reckless or malicious conduct
When awarded: Prior warnings ignored, extreme cruelty, cover-up attempts
Texas caps: Generally limited but can be substantial in intentional conduct cases

Realistic Case Timeline and Process

Phase 1: Immediate Response (Days 1-30)

Evidence preservation and documentation
Medical evaluation and treatment
Initial legal consultation
Decision on reporting to university/police

Phase 2: Investigation (Months 1-6)

Formal demand letters to preserve evidence
Public records requests
Witness interviews
Expert consultations
Settlement negotiations may begin

Phase 3: Litigation (Months 6-24+)

Filing lawsuit if settlement inadequate
Discovery process: depositions, document requests
Mediation/settlement conferences
Trial preparation
Possible trial (though most cases settle)

What This Means for Brownwood Families:

Patience required: These cases take time for thorough investigation
Early action critical: Evidence disappears quickly
University process parallel: Civil case can proceed regardless of campus discipline
Confidentiality possible: Most cases settle with confidential terms

Practical Guides for Brownwood Families: What to Do Right Now

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding

Warning Signs Your Child Is Being Hazed:

Physical Indicators:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight changes (from restriction or stress eating)
Sleep deprivation (3 AM calls, constant fatigue)
Injuries to hands/back/buttocks from paddling
Chemical burns or rashes
Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if they don’t normally drink)

Behavioral Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and old friends
Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive when asked about the group
Fear of “letting the chapter down” or “getting brothers in trouble”
Obsession with pleasing older members
Talking about “just getting through” initiation

Academic Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or falling asleep in class
Skipping assignments for “mandatory” events
Losing scholarships or academic standing

Digital Behavior:

Constant phone monitoring for group chats
Anxiety when phone buzzes
Deleting messages obsessively
Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding instant response
Social media posts showing humiliating activities
New location-sharing apps installed

How to Talk to Your Child (Non-Confrontationally):

“How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
“Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
“Do you feel like you can leave if you want to, or would there be consequences?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”

If You Suspect Hazing – Immediate Steps:

Prioritize safety: If in danger, call 911 or campus police
Medical attention: Get evaluated even if they insist they’re “fine”
Document everything: Write down what they tell you with dates/times
Preserve evidence: Screenshot texts, photograph injuries, save items
Contact attorney: Call 1-888-ATTY-911 before confronting anyone
Report strategically: With attorney guidance, report to appropriate authorities

For Students: Your Rights and Safety

Is This Hazing? Assessment Questions:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
Is this “tradition” really about initiation or just entertainment for older members?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

If You Answer YES to Any: It’s Likely Hazing

How to Exit Safely:

Immediate danger: Call 911, get to safe location
You have the right to leave at any time, regardless of what they’ve told you
Tell someone outside first (parent, RA, friend) for support and documentation
Send written resignation to chapter president: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
If fearing retaliation: Report to Dean of Students and campus police

Evidence Collection While It’s Happening:

Screenshot everything: Group chats with timestamps and names visible
Voice memos: Texas is one-party consent—you can record conversations you’re part of
Photo/video documentation: Injuries, locations, objects used
Medical documentation: Tell providers “I was hazed” for medical record
Witness information: Names/contacts of others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKE #1: Letting Your Child Delete Evidence

What happens: Messages disappear, case becomes “he said/she said”
Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up, may be obstruction of justice
Correct approach: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization Directly

What happens: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Why it’s wrong: Gives them advance warning to build defenses
Correct approach: Document everything, call attorney first

MISTAKE #3: Signing University “Resolution” Forms

What happens: You may waive right to sue or accept inadequate settlement
Why it’s wrong: Early settlements are typically far below case value
Correct approach: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

MISTAKE #4: Posting on Social Media

What happens: Defense attorneys screenshot everything, inconsistencies hurt credibility
Why it’s wrong: Public statements can waive privileges, create contradictions
Correct approach: Document privately, let attorney control messaging

MISTAKE #5: Waiting for University to “Handle It”

What happens: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Why it’s wrong: University process ≠ real accountability or adequate compensation
Correct approach: Preserve evidence now, consult lawyer immediately

MISTAKE #6: Talking to Insurance Adjusters

What happens: Recorded statements used against you, lowball settlements offered
Why it’s wrong: Adjusters work for the insurance company, not you
Correct approach: “My attorney will contact you”

Why Attorney911 for Brownwood Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. Here’s why Brownwood families choose The Manginello Law Firm.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña):
Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
Deploy independent medical exams to minimize injuries
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation (Ralph Manginello):
As one of the few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation, we’ve faced billion-dollar defendants before. We’re not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams. Our federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) prepares us for Title IX claims and complex multi-defendant cases.

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability:
Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) signals elite criminal defense expertise. This is crucial when hazing involves:

Criminal charges against perpetrators
Witnesses with dual exposure
Navigating parallel criminal and civil proceedings
Advising families through law enforcement investigations

Multi-Million Dollar Results:
We have recovered millions for clients in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. We understand how to:

Work with economists to value lifetime care needs
Present compelling damages evidence to juries
Negotiate from strength, not desperation
We don’t settle cheap—we build cases that force accountability

Our Investigative Approach for Brownwood Families

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine:
We maintain the proprietary database of Texas Greek organizations referenced earlier. This means we don’t start from zero—we already know:

Which entities exist behind campus chapters
Where to find insurance coverage
How to track organizations across multiple campuses
What patterns exist in specific fraternities/sororities

Digital Forensics Expertise:
We work with experts who can:

Recover deleted messages and social media content
Authenticate digital evidence for court
Trace digital footprints across platforms
Preserve evidence before it disappears

Expert Network:
For hazing cases, we deploy:

Medical experts for rhabdomyolysis, TBI, kidney damage, PTSD
Greek life culture experts to explain coercion dynamics
Economists for lifetime care and earning capacity calculations
Digital forensics specialists for evidence preservation
Psychologists for trauma assessment

What Makes Hazing Cases Different

Powerful Opponents:
You’re not fighting just a campus chapter. You may be facing:

National fraternity/sorority headquarters with unlimited legal budgets
University legal teams with sovereign immunity arguments
Multiple insurance companies with overlapping coverage disputes
Well-funded defense firms specializing in institutional protection

Evidence Challenges:

Digital evidence disappears quickly (disappearing messages, deleted chats)
Witnesses are often afraid or loyal to the organization
Organizations have sophisticated “risk management” procedures designed to limit liability
Internal documents are closely guarded

Emotional Complexity:

Victims often feel shame or loyalty conflicting with self-protection
Families may know perpetrators or their families in close-knit communities like Brownwood
Religious or cultural values may affect reporting decisions
The desire for privacy conflicts with need for accountability

How We Support Brownwood Families

Geographic Accessibility:
While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Brownwood and Brown County. We offer:

Virtual consultations via secure video
Travel to your location when needed
Coordination with local medical providers
Understanding of Central Texas courts and jurisdictions

Spanish Language Services:
Hablamos Español. Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can consult with Spanish-speaking families directly at lupe@atty911.com.

Contingency Fee Basis:
We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. This removes financial barriers and aligns our interests with yours.

Comprehensive Practice Coverage:
Hazing cases often involve multiple legal areas where we have proven expertise:

Wrongful death (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/)
Criminal defense (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/)
Insurance bad faith claims
Premises liability for unsafe housing
Negligent supervision of organizations

Your Next Steps: A Clear Path Forward

If you’ve read this far, you likely have concerns about hazing affecting your family. Here’s what to do next.

Free Confidential Consultation

Listen to your story without judgment
Review any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain your legal options clearly and honestly
Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
Answer all your questions about costs, process, and possible outcomes
Provide immediate guidance on evidence preservation and safety

There is no pressure to hire us on the spot. Take time to make the right decision for your family. Everything you tell us is confidential.

Contact Information

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Legal Emergency Lawyers™

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781 (24/7 for emergencies)

Email:

Ralph Manginello: ralph@atty911.com
Lupe Peña: lupe@atty911.com (Spanish services available)

Website: https://attorney911.com

Practice Area Information:

Wrongful Death: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal Defense: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
Full Practice Areas: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/

Educational Resources

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm

Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Statute of Limitations Explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
How Contingency Fees Work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc
Using Your Phone to Document Evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

A Final Word to Brownwood Families

Hazing thrives in silence and shame. It counts on victims feeling alone and institutions prioritizing reputation over safety. But you are not alone. We have stood with Texas families through hazing crises, and we have seen institutions held accountable.

The Leonel Bermudez case at UH proves that even when facing a major university and national fraternity, justice is possible. The chapter is closed. The lawsuit proceeds. And most importantly, the truth is exposed so other families might be spared.

Whether your child attends Howard Payne University here in Brownwood or any Texas campus, you have rights. Texas law protects hazing victims. And experienced counsel can help you navigate the complex path toward accountability, compensation, and prevention.

Don’t let another day pass while evidence disappears and trauma deepens. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let us listen to your story and help you understand your options. Because when it comes to protecting your child and holding powerful institutions accountable, enough is enough.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of the Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Lawsuit:

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos:

Using your phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of limitations explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes that can ruin your case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Website & Practice Areas:

Main website: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal defense practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
Ralph Manginello profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Lupe Peña profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

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