The Complete Guide to Hazing Lawsuits for City of Center & Texas Families

If Your Child Was Hzed at a Texas University, You’re Not Alone—And You Have Rights

For families in City of Center, Shelby County, and throughout East Texas, sending a child to college represents hope, opportunity, and pride. But when that dream turns into a nightmare—when your son or daughter comes home injured, traumatized, or hospitalized after what was supposed to be a fraternity “pledge night,” sorority “initiation,” or Corps of Cadets “tradition”—you face a confusing, frightening reality. Right now, at universities across Texas, from Stephen F. Austin State University in nearby Nacogdoches to the major hubs in Houston, College Station, and Austin, students are being subjected to dangerous hazing rituals that cause life-altering injuries and emotional trauma.

We know because we’re fighting one of these cases right now. Our firm, Attorney911 (The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC), represents Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders. His story—detailed in exclusive reporting by Click2Houston and ABC13—involves forced humiliation through a “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms and sex toys, extreme physical abuse including being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and dangerous forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting. The physical torture culminated in Bermudez developing rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure, requiring four days of hospitalization and ongoing treatment for potential permanent kidney damage.

This guide exists because City of Center families deserve to know the truth about hazing in Texas: what it really looks like in 2025, what Texas law says about it, what has been happening at universities where your children might attend, and what legal options exist when institutions fail to protect students. Whether your child attends Stephen F. Austin State University just 30 minutes from City of Center, travels to Texas A&M in College Station, or studies at any of Texas’s major campuses, the patterns of abuse, cover-up, and institutional neglect are sadly predictable.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES IN CITY OF CENTER & EAST TEXAS

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

• Call 911 for medical emergencies
• Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• We provide immediate help – that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™

In the first 48 hours:

• Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine”
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
  • Photograph injuries from multiple angles
  • Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
• Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity/sorority
  • Sign anything from the university or insurance company
  • Post details on public social media
  • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses)
• Universities move quickly to control the narrative
• We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like for Texas Students

For City of Center families unfamiliar with modern Greek life or campus traditions, hazing often brings to mind outdated stereotypes: harmless pranks, silly costumes, or mild embarrassment. The reality in 2025 is far more sinister, sophisticated, and dangerous. Hasing has evolved into a calculated system of control, humiliation, and abuse that leaves physical and psychological scars—sometimes permanent ones.

A Modern Definition of Hasing That Every Parent Should Understand

Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. The critical element that City of Center parents must understand: “I agreed to it” or “they wanted to fit in” does not make it safe, acceptable, or legal when there exists peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion. In Texas specifically, Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing—the law recognizes that what looks like voluntary participation is often coerced compliance.

The Five Main Categories of Modern Hasing at Texas Universities

1. Alcohol and Substance Hasing
This remains the deadliest form of hazing nationwide and at Texas schools. It includes forced or coerced drinking games like “lineups” where pledges chug alcohol in sequence, “Big/Little nights” where new members must finish entire bottles of liquor to meet their mentors, and trivia or “Bible study” games where wrong answers mean dangerous consumption. The recent University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi case documented in the Hoodline report shows how these “traditions” cause alcohol poisoning, hospitalization, and permanent organ damage.

2. Physical Hasing
Beyond the stereotypical paddling (which still occurs despite national bans), physical hazing now includes extreme calisthenics called “smokings” that push students beyond physical limits—like the 100+ push-ups and 500 squats that nearly killed Leonel Bermudez. Sleep deprivation, food/water restriction, exposure to extreme temperatures, and dangerous “trust exercises” that result in falls or injuries are common. At Texas A&M, Corps of Cadets hazing has included binding students in painful positions for extended periods.

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hasing
This category includes forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts like the “elephant walk” or “roasted pig” positions, degrading costumes or roles with racial/sexist overtones, and psychological manipulation involving sexual humiliation. These acts cause profound psychological trauma that often requires years of therapy.

4. Psychological Hasing
Verbal abuse, threats of expulsion from the group, social isolation from non-members, forced confessions of personal information later used against students, and public shaming in meetings or on social media create environments of fear and control that can trigger anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

5. Digital/Online Hasing
The newest frontier of hazing leverages technology: group chat dares on GroupMe or Discord that require dangerous acts, “challenges” documented on TikTok or Instagram Stories, pressure to create or share compromising images/videos, and 24/7 availability demands via text that disrupt sleep and academic performance. As our video explains, proper evidence preservation of digital hazing is critical for building a case.

Where Hasing Actually Happens in Texas: It’s Not Just “Fraternities”

While Greek organizations account for many hazing incidents, City of Center families should understand that hazing occurs across campus organizations:

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC Divine Nine, multicultural Greek councils)
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups (particularly at Texas A&M and other military colleges)
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs (like the Texas Cowboys at UT or similar groups at other schools)
• Athletic Teams (from football and basketball to cheerleading and club sports)
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups
• Academic Honor Societies and Service Organizations

The common thread isn’t the type of organization but the dynamics of social status, tradition preservation, and secrecy that keep dangerous practices alive even when everyone intellectually “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law & Liability Framework: What City of Center Families Need to Know

Under Texas law—which governs cases involving City of Center families and Texas universities—hazing is treated as both a criminal offense and civil wrongdoing. Understanding this dual framework is essential for knowing your rights and options.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hasing Statute That Protects Your Child

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that define hazing broadly as intentional, knowing, or reckless acts, directed at a student, for the purpose of initiation/affiliation with any organization, that either:

1. Endanger physical health or safety (beating, forced exercise, forced consumption of alcohol/drugs, sleep deprivation, etc.)
2. Seriously affect mental health or safety (extreme humiliation, intimidation, psychological manipulation)

Key provisions City of Center parents should understand:

• Criminal Penalties Escalate with Harm: Hazing starts as a Class B misdemeanor but becomes a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing they knew about.
• Reporter Protections Exist: Texas provides limited immunity for individuals who report hazing or call for help in good faith, even if they were involved. This “Good Samaritan” provision is crucial—students should never hesitate to call 911 for medical emergencies.
• Consent Is Not a Defense: As mentioned, § 37.155 explicitly states that victim “consent” doesn’t legalize hazing, recognizing the power imbalances at play.
• Organizations Can Be Prosecuted: Fraternities, sororities, and other groups can face criminal charges and fines up to $10,000 per violation if they authorized or encouraged hazing or if officers knew and failed to report.

Criminal Cases vs. Civil Lawsuits: Two Paths to Accountability

City of Center families often ask: “Will there be criminal charges, or do we need to file a lawsuit?” The answer is often “both,” but they’re separate processes:

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State)

• Prosecuted by district attorneys (in Shelby County, that would be the 123rd Judicial District Attorney)
• Aim: Punishment (jail time, fines, probation)
• Typical charges: hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Outcome: Criminal conviction can strengthen civil case but isn’t required for it

Civil Lawsuits (Brought by Victims/Families)

• Filed by injured students or surviving families
• Aim: Monetary compensation for damages and institutional accountability
• Legal theories: negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
• Outcome: Financial recovery for medical bills, lost earnings, pain/suffering, and sometimes punitive damages

These cases can run simultaneously, and a skilled hazing attorney like those at Attorney911 can help navigate both tracks.

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections for Texas Students

Stop Campus Hasing Act (2024)
This federal law requires colleges receiving federal aid (virtually all Texas public universities and most privates) to:

• Report hazing incidents more transparently
• Strengthen hazing education and prevention programs
• Maintain public hazing data (phased in by approximately 2026)
  For City of Center families, this means better access to information about which organizations have hazing histories at specific campuses.

Title IX and Clery Act Implications
When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered, requiring universities to investigate and address the misconduct. The Clery Act requires reporting certain crimes in annual safety reports—hazing incidents often overlap with assault or alcohol crimes that must be disclosed.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Texas Hasing Lawsuit?

Understanding the potential defendants is crucial for City of Center families considering legal action:

1. Individual Students
The members who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out abusive acts, or helped cover them up. These individuals can face both criminal charges and civil liability.

2. Local Chapter / Organization
The fraternity, sorority, or club itself if it’s incorporated. Chapter officers (president, risk manager, pledge educator) often bear particular responsibility.

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters
National organizations that set policies, receive dues, train chapters, and supervise activities can be liable for what they knew or should have known from prior incidents at other chapters.

4. University or Governing Board
Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) and their regents may be sued under negligence theories. Key questions: Did they have prior warnings? Did they enforce their policies? Were they deliberately indifferent to known risks?

5. Third Parties
Landlords who own fraternity houses, bars that overserved underage students, security companies that failed to protect—all can potentially share liability depending on the facts.

In the Bermudez case against University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi, we’re pursuing all these entities: the university that owned/controlled the chapter house, the national fraternity that should have known about hazing patterns, the housing corporation, and 13 individual members. This comprehensive approach maximizes accountability and compensation.

National Hasing Case Patterns: What Texas Families Can Learn from Tragedies Elsewhere

The national hazing cases that have made headlines in recent years aren’t just distant tragedies—they’re blueprints for what happens at Texas universities and legal precedents that City of Center families can rely on. These cases show predictable patterns that repeat across campuses, fraternities, and years.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern: The Most Common Fatal Scenario

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
A bid-acceptance event with forced drinking led to Piazza consuming dangerous amounts of alcohol, suffering severe falls captured on chapter security cameras, and dying after hours of delayed medical attention. The case resulted in dozens of criminal charges, multi-million-dollar civil settlements, and Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.” Takeaway for City of Center families: Extreme intoxication combined with delayed 911 calls and a culture of silence creates legally devastating liability.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
A “Bible study” drinking game required pledges to drink when answering questions incorrectly. Gruver died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%), leading to felony hazing convictions and Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act. Takeaway: Legislative reform often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing—Texas could see similar laws after high-profile cases.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
Foltz was forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” event, died from alcohol poisoning, and his family reached a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU). The chapter president was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million. Takeaway: Universities face significant financial consequences alongside fraternities, and individual officers bear personal liability.

Physical & Ritualized Hasing Pattern: Violence Disguised as “Tradition”

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
At a fraternity retreat, Deng was blindfolded, weighted with a backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a “glass ceiling” ritual, suffering fatal head injuries while members delayed calling 911. The national fraternity was criminally convicted, banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years, and multiple members received jail sentences. Takeaway for East Texas families: Off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous as parties, and national organizations face serious sanctions when rituals turn deadly.

Athletic Program Hasing & Abuse: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football Program (2023–2025)
Former players alleged widespread sexualized, racist hazing within the football program over years, leading to multiple lawsuits, the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later settled a wrongful-termination suit confidentially), and institutional reforms. Takeaway: Hasing isn’t limited to Greek life—big-money athletic programs can harbor systemic abuse with similar dynamics of power, tradition, and silence.

What These National Cases Mean for City of Center & Texas Families

These tragedies share common threads: forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, and institutional cover-ups. The reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements that followed came only after litigation exposed the truth. For City of Center families facing hazing at Stephen F. Austin State University, Texas A&M, UT Austin, or any Texas campus, these cases provide both warning and precedent: you’re not alone, the patterns are predictable, and the legal system has pathways to accountability.

Texas University Focus: Where City of Center Students Attend & What Families Must Know

City of Center families send students to universities across Texas, from nearby Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches to major hubs hours away. Each campus has its own Greek life culture, hazing history, and institutional response patterns. Understanding these differences helps families know what to watch for and where to seek help.

Stephen F. Austin State University (Nacogdoches, TX) – The Local Campus for Many City of Center Families

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Just 30 minutes from City of Center in neighboring Nacogdoches County, Stephen F. Austin State University serves as the primary higher education institution for many Shelby County families. With approximately 12,000 students, SFA has active Greek life including fraternities and sororities governed by IFC and Panhellenic councils, plus various student organizations where hazing risks exist.

Official Hasing Policy & Reporting Channels
SFA prohibits hazing as defined by Texas law in its Student Code of Conduct. Reporting options include:

• Dean of Students Office
• Office of Student Conduct and Integrity
• University Police Department
• Online reporting forms on SFA’s website

The university emphasizes that hazing violates both state law and institutional policy, with sanctions ranging from probation to expulsion for individuals and suspension/revocation for organizations.

Recent Hasing History & Institutional Response
While SFA hasn’t had national media hazing cases like larger universities, internal disciplinary records show periodic sanctions against Greek organizations for alcohol violations, unauthorized social events, and conduct that could constitute hazing. The university’s relative size and location mean incidents may receive less publicity but still cause serious harm to East Texas students.

How a Hasing Case at SFA Might Proceed for City of Center Families

• Jurisdiction: Cases would typically involve Nacogdoches County courts (273rd Judicial District) for civil matters and Nacogdoches County District Attorney for criminal charges
• Potential Defendants: Individual students, local chapters, national organizations (many SFA fraternities/sororities are chapters of nationals with hazing histories), potentially the university
• Logistics: City of Center families would work with attorneys who understand East Texas courts and SFA’s specific procedures

What SFA Students from City of Center & Parents Should Do

• Document any concerns immediately (photos, screenshots, notes)
• Report to SFA’s Dean of Students AND consider consulting an attorney before providing formal statements
• Understand that SFA’s internal process may focus on student conduct sanctions rather than victim compensation—civil litigation may be necessary for full recovery
• Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for confidential guidance specific to SFA cases

University of Houston (Houston, TX)

Campus & Culture Snapshot
As Texas’s third-largest university with over 46,000 students, UH has extensive Greek life including the Pi Kappa Phi chapter involved in our ongoing Bermudez case. The urban campus sees significant commuter traffic but maintains active fraternity/sorority communities with chapter houses near campus.

Official Hasing Policy & Reporting
UH prohibits hazing in all forms per Texas law and University policy SAM 01.D.07. The Center for Fraternity and Sorority Life oversees Greek organizations, while the Dean of Students handles complaints. UH states it investigates all reports and imposes sanctions including suspension/expulsion for individuals and chapter revocation for organizations.

Documented Incidents & Institutional Response
The Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi case (2025) represents UH’s most severe recent hazing incident, involving forced physical abuse, humiliation, and life-threatening medical consequences. UH’s response—calling the conduct “deeply disturbing” and cooperating with investigations—follows a pattern seen at many universities: public condemnation after litigation begins.

Historical cases include a 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha incident where a pledge suffered a lacerated spleen during hazing, leading to misdemeanor charges and chapter suspension. These repeated incidents with the same national organizations demonstrate pattern awareness that strengthens civil cases.

How a UH Hasing Case Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Harris County courts and district attorney’s office
• Key Evidence: UH maintains conduct records that can show prior violations and institutional knowledge
• Strategic Consideration: UH’s status as a public university triggers some sovereign immunity defenses, but exceptions exist for gross negligence and certain federal claims

What UH Students & Parents Should Know

• UH’s size means multiple offices may be involved (CFSL, Dean of Students, UHPD)—document all communications
• The university’s relationship with Houston Police Department means some cases may involve both campus and city police
• Prior violations by the same organization at UH significantly strengthen negligence claims
• Contact Attorney911 for help navigating UH’s complex institutional response

Texas A&M University (College Station, TX)

Campus & Culture Snapshot
With over 74,000 students, Texas A&M has one of the nation’s largest Greek systems and the distinctive Corps of Cadets program. Both communities have faced serious hazing allegations, making A&M a particular concern for City of Center families whose students may join these high-tradition groups.

Official Policy & Reporting
A&M prohibits hazing under University Rule 24.99.99.M0.01 and Student Rule 24. The university provides multiple reporting channels including the Student Conduct Office, Corps of Cadets Commandant’s Office for cadet issues, and anonymous reporting options.

Documented Incidents & Responses
Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The chapter was suspended, and pledges sued for $1 million.

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023): A cadet alleged degrading hazing including being bound between beds in a simulated sexual position with an apple in his mouth, seeking over $1 million in damages. A&M stated it handled the matter internally under Corps regulations.

These cases show A&M’s dual hazing challenges: Greek life incidents mirroring national patterns AND Corps-specific traditions with their own abuse dynamics.

How an A&M Hasing Case Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Brazos County courts and district attorney
• Unique Elements: Corps cases may involve military-style chain of command issues alongside standard negligence theories
• Institutional Factors: A&M’s strong tradition culture can create resistance to external scrutiny but also provides rich evidence of known risks

What A&M Students & Parents Should Do

• Corps members should document chain of command responses to complaints
• Understand that A&M’s internal processes may prioritize tradition preservation—external legal pressure is often necessary
• The university’s size means persistence is required to reach decision-makers
• Contact Attorney911 for experience with both Greek and Corps hazing cases at A&M

University of Texas at Austin (Austin, TX)

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UT Austin’s approximately 52,000 students participate in extensive Greek life and numerous spirit organizations. The university’s relative transparency about hacing violations makes it a case study in how public reporting interacts with ongoing problems.

Official Policy & Public Reporting
UT prohibits hazing under Institutional Rules and maintains a public Hasing Violations website listing organizations, conduct, sanctions, and dates. This transparency, while commendable, also documents repeated violations by the same groups—evidence that strengthens civil cases.

Documented Incidents from Public Records
Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, found to be hazing, chapter placed on probation with additional education requirements.

Texas Wranglers & Other Spirit Groups: Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, humiliation rituals showing hazing extends beyond Greek life.

The public log shows patterns: organizations sanctioned, returning to probation for similar conduct, demonstrating the limitations of internal discipline alone.

How a UT Austin Case Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Travis County courts and district attorney
• Evidence Advantage: UT’s public violation records provide pre-existing notice evidence crucial for negligence claims
• Strategic Consideration: Austin’s plaintiff-friendly venue can impact settlement values

What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Know

• Check UT’s hazing violations database for your organization’s history before joining
• Document whether the organization complied with probation terms from prior violations
• Understand that even “probation” or “education” sanctions after hazing establish institutional knowledge
• Contact Attorney911 for help using UT’s own records to build your case

Southern Methodist University (Dallas, TX) & Baylor University (Waco, TX)

These private universities, while farther from City of Center, attract East Texas students and present different legal considerations:

SMU’s Challenges: As a private university with affluent student population and strong Greek presence, SMU has faced incidents like the Kappa Alpha Order paddling and drinking case (2017) that led to chapter suspension. Private status means less public reporting but also fewer sovereign immunity barriers in litigation.

Baylor’s Context: Following its Title IX sexual assault scandal, Baylor has heightened scrutiny of all misconduct. Baseball team hazing (2020) led to 14 player suspensions, showing athletic program risks. Baylor’s religious identity complicates institutional response narratives but doesn’t eliminate legal liability.

For City of Center families with students at these schools, the principles remain: document everything, seek medical attention immediately, consult an attorney before making formal statements, and understand that private universities still face serious liability for hazing they knew or should have prevented.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific Chapters & National Hasing Histories

The fraternity or sorority your child joins at a Texas university isn’t an isolated club—it’s part of a national organization with decades of history, including hazing incidents across the country. For City of Center families, understanding this connection between local chapters and national patterns is crucial for recognizing risks and building legal cases.

Why National Histories Matter for Your Child’s Safety & Your Legal Case

National fraternity and sorority headquarters in Indianapolis, Charlotte, or other cities maintain thick anti-hazing manuals, risk management policies, and insurance programs precisely because they’ve seen deaths and catastrophic injuries at chapters nationwide. When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous “tradition” that got a chapter shut down in Ohio or Louisiana:

1. It demonstrates foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known this specific hazing method was a risk
2. It shows pattern awareness: Prior incidents establish that policies alone don’t prevent recurrence without active enforcement
3. It strengthens negligence claims: Courts consider whether nationals responded adequately to prior warnings

In our Bermudez case against Pi Kappa Phi, the national organization’s knowledge of alcohol hazing risks from the Andrew Coffey death at Florida State University (2017) forms part of the negligence argument. They knew the dangers but allegedly failed to implement sufficient safeguards at University of Houston.

Major National Organizations Present at Texas Universities & Their Hasing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / “Pike”)

• Texas Chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, Stephen F. Austin State University
• National History: Stone Foltz death (Bowling Green, 2021 – $10M settlement), David Bogenberger death (Northern Illinois, 2012 – $14M settlement), multiple other alcohol hazing deaths
• Pattern: “Big/Little” nights with forced bottle consumption, alcohol poisoning risks

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / “SAE”)

• Texas Chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU
• National History: Traumatic brain injury case (Alabama, 2023), chemical burns case (Texas A&M, 2021), assault case (UT Austin, 2024), Carson Starkey death (Cal Poly, 2008)
• Pattern: Physical abuse, alcohol hazing, delayed medical care

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

• Texas Chapters: UH (Beta Nu chapter now closed), others statewide
• National History: Andrew Coffey death (Florida State, 2017), our ongoing Bermudez case (UH, 2025)
• Pattern: Alcohol hazing, physical endurance tests, humiliation rituals

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

• Texas Chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor
• National History: Max Gruver death (LSU, 2017 – led to Louisiana felony hazing law)
• Pattern: “Bible study” drinking games, forced consumption

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)

• Texas Chapters: Texas A&M, SMU, Baylor
• National History: SMU chapter suspension (2017 for paddling/drinking), multiple other campus sanctions
• Pattern: Physical paddling, alcohol hazing, tradition-based abuse

This isn’t about condemning all Greek life—many organizations do positive work. But for City of Center families evaluating risks or pursuing claims, these national patterns provide crucial context: the hazing method that hurt your child probably isn’t new or unique to their campus.

How National-Chapter Relationships Work in Hasing Litigation

When we investigate hazing cases for Texas families, we trace several critical connections:

Financial & Control Relationships

• Dues flowing from chapter to national
• National approval of local leadership
• Mandatory national education programs (often inadequate)
• Insurance arrangements between national and local entities

Knowledge Pathways

• Prior incident reports from this or other chapters
• Risk management visits and reports
• Communications between chapter advisors and nationals
• National hazing prevention materials that acknowledge specific risks

Legal Liability Chains

• National policies creating duties of care
• National ability to suspend or revoke chapters
• National control over ritual content and initiation practices
• National knowledge of which “traditions” pose documented risks

In successful hazing litigation, demonstrating these connections turns a “rogue chapter” defense into evidence of systemic failure. Nationals can’t claim they’re separate from chapter misconduct while collecting dues, providing rituals, and maintaining insurance relationships.

Building a Hasing Case: Evidence, Damages, & Legal Strategy for City of Center Families

When hazing causes serious injury or death, building a successful legal case requires systematic evidence collection, sophisticated damage analysis, and strategic understanding of how universities and national organizations defend themselves. For City of Center families, knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety and improve outcomes.

Critical Evidence Categories in Modern Hasing Cases

1. Digital Communications (The Most Important Evidence in 2025)

• Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage groups, Discord servers, fraternity-specific apps
• Social Media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages (screenshot before they disappear), TikTok comments
• Deleted Message Recovery: Digital forensics can often recover “deleted” messages from phones or cloud backups
• Metadata: Timestamps, participant lists, read receipts establishing who knew what when

As we explain in our evidence preservation video, using your phone properly to document digital hazing can make or break a case. Screenshot everything immediately—don’t wait.

2. Photos & Videos

• Injury Documentation: Multiple angles, include scale (coin/ruler), progressive photos showing healing
• Event Footage: Videos from hazing events, security camera footage, doorbell cams at houses
• Social Media Content: Posts/stories showing hazing events even if captioned as “jokes”
• Location Evidence: Photos of where hazing occurred (houses, parks, off-campus rentals)

3. Internal Organization Documents

• Pledge manuals, “tradition” lists, initiation scripts
• Chapter meeting minutes discussing activities
• Emails/texts between officers about “what we do to pledges”
• National policies and training materials showing what should have been prevented

4. University Records

• Prior conduct files on the same organization
• Probation/suspension letters, warning correspondence
• Campus police incident reports
• Clery Act reports showing pattern of similar incidents
• Internal emails among administrators about the organization

5. Medical & Psychological Records

• ER/hospitalization records (crucial: tell doctors you were hazed so it’s documented)
• Surgery/rehabilitation notes
• Toxicology reports (blood alcohol, drug screens)
• Psychological evaluations diagnosing PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidality
• Ongoing therapy records documenting emotional harm

6. Witness Testimony

• Other pledges who experienced same/similar hazing
• Current/former members willing to speak truthfully
• Roommates, RAs, friends who observed changes or heard admissions
• Expert witnesses: medical professionals, Greek life culture experts, economists

Damages: What Families Can Recover in Texas Hasing Cases

Understanding damage categories helps City of Center families appreciate what’s at stake beyond “punishing” wrongdoers:

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses)

• Past Medical Bills: ER visits, hospitalization, surgery, medications, equipment
• Future Medical Expenses: Ongoing therapy, future surgeries, lifelong care for permanent injuries
• Lost Income: Missed work for victim/parents providing care
• Educational Costs: Tuition for semesters missed, lost scholarships, delayed graduation impact
• Diminished Earning Capacity: For permanent disabilities reducing lifetime earnings (economist calculations)

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real Harm)

• Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries and recovery
• Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation trauma
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Can’t participate in activities they previously enjoyed
• Reputational Harm: Social stigma, difficulty transferring schools

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families When Hasing Kills)

• Funeral/burial costs
• Loss of financial support deceased would have provided
• Loss of companionship, love, guidance for parents/siblings
• Grief and emotional suffering of family members

Punitive Damages (When Defendants’ Conduct Is Especially Bad)

• To punish reckless/willful/malicious conduct
• To deter future hazing
• Available in Texas when defendants had prior warnings, showed callous indifference, or attempted cover-ups

The settlement amounts in national cases—$10M for Stone Foltz, $14M for David Bogenberger, $6.1M verdict in Max Gruver case—reflect these comprehensive damage calculations, not just medical bills. Serious hazing causes lifelong harm that requires lifetime compensation.

How Universities & National Organizations Defend Hasing Cases (And How We Overcome Their Defenses)

Defense 1: “The Pledge Consented / It Was Voluntary”

• Their Argument: “They wanted to join, knew there would be initiation”
• How We Overcome: Texas law § 37.155 says consent isn’t a defense; power imbalance and coercion vitiate true consent; evidence shows implied threats for non-participation

Defense 2: “This Was a Rogue Chapter / National Didn’t Know”

• Their Argument: “We have policies against this; these individuals violated them”
• How We Overcome: Discovery of prior incidents shows pattern knowledge; financial/control relationships prove national involvement; policy-vs-enforcement gap evidence

Defense 3: “It Happened Off-Campus / Not Our Property”

• Their Argument: “We don’t control what happens at private houses/Airbnbs”
• How We Overcome: Universities can have duty based on sponsorship/knowledge; nationals benefit from/monitor chapter activities regardless of location; foreseeability that hazing moves off-campus to avoid detection

Defense 4: “We Have Strict Anti-Hazing Policies”

• Their Argument: Point to thick policy manuals as proof they prohibit hazing
• How We Overcome: Show policies were window-dressing, not enforced; prior violations resulted in minimal punishment; training taught how to avoid detection, not prevent hazing

Defense 5: “The University Has Sovereign Immunity” (Public Schools Like UH, A&M, UT)

• Their Argument: As state agencies, they’re protected from many lawsuits
• How We Overcome: Exceptions for gross negligence/willful misconduct; ministerial vs discretionary acts; suing individuals in personal capacity; Title IX waivers for gender-based hazing

Defense 6: “Insurance Doesn’t Cover Intentional Acts”

• Their Argument: Hasing is intentional conduct excluded from coverage
• How We Overcome: Argue negligent supervision is covered even if hazing was intentional; identify multiple policies (chapter, national, umbrella); bad faith claims if insurers wrongfully deny

These defenses aren’t automatic case-enders—they’re arguments we systematically dismantle through evidence, legal briefing, and leveraging our insider knowledge of how insurance companies and institutional defendants operate.

Practical Guides & FAQs for City of Center Parents, Students, & Witnesses

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding When You Suspect Hasing

Warning Signs Your College Student May Be Being Hazed

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress, sleep deprivation patterns
• Sudden weight loss/gain from food/water restriction or stress
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability, withdrawal
• Secretiveness about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring, anxiety about missing messages
• Financial red flags: unexpected large expenses, maxed credit cards for “mandatory” purchases
• Academic decline: dropping grades, missing classes for “mandatory” events

How to Talk to Your Child About Hasing Concerns

• Use open questions: “How are things going with [organization]? Are they respectful of your time?”
• Avoid judgment: “Have you seen anything that made you uncomfortable?”
• Emphasize safety: “You can always call me, no matter what time, if you feel unsafe.”
• Document what they share: Write down dates, details, names while fresh.

If Your Child Is Injured or Traumatized

1. Medical First: Get immediate medical attention even if they resist
2. Evidence Preservation: Screenshot messages, photograph injuries, save physical items
3. Document Everything: Write narrative of what happened, who was involved, where/when
4. Consult Attorney BEFORE Talking to University: Universities often prioritize institutional protection over victim compensation
5. Do NOT: Confront the organization, sign university paperwork, post on social media, or let evidence be destroyed

When to Contact a Hasing Attorney

• Immediately if there are serious physical injuries or hospitalization
• Within 24-48 hours for any significant hazing incident (evidence disappears fast)
• Before providing formal statements to university or police
• If you feel the institution is minimizing or covering up what happened
• Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for free consultation

For Students: Is This Hasing? How to Protect Yourself

Self-Assessment Questions

• Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
• Would I do this if there were no social consequences or fear of exclusion?
• Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
• Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?
• If you answered YES to any, it’s likely hazing.

How to Exit Safely

• Immediate danger: Call 911, get to safe location, you won’t get in trouble for emergency calls
• Leaving the organization: Send email/text to chapter leadership: “I resign effective immediately”
• Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure/retaliation might occur
• Document any threats/harassment after leaving for possible protective order
• Report retaliation to university AND police if threats occur

Evidence Collection for Students

• Screenshots: Capture full group chats with timestamps, participant names
• Recordings: Texas is one-party consent—you can record conversations you’re part of
• Photos: Injuries (multiple angles, with scale), locations, objects used in hazing
• Medical Documentation: Tell doctors you were hazed so it’s in records, get copies
• Witness Information: Names/contacts of others who saw what happened
• Preserve Everything: Don’t delete anything, back up to cloud/email

Where to Report & Who to Trust

• On Campus: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, Title IX Coordinator (if sexual elements), Campus Police
• Off Campus: Local police, National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE)
• Confidential Support: University counseling center, trusted professors
• Be Cautious With: Organization advisors (may prioritize the org), “Greek Life” offices (sometimes protect system over individuals), friends still in the org (conflicted loyalties)

For Former Members/Witnesses: Coming Forward Responsibly

If you participated in or witnessed hazing and now want to help:

• Understand Your Position: You may have valuable evidence but also potential liability
• Get Your Own Legal Advice: Before making statements, understand your rights/exposure
• Consider Cooperation Agreements: Prosecutors/plaintiffs may offer protections for truthful testimony
• Your Testimony Can Prevent Future Harm: Speaking truth breaks cycles of abuse
• Contact Attorney911: We can discreetly advise witnesses on navigating these complex situations

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hasing Case

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence

• What families think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
• Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up, can be obstruction of justice, makes case impossible
• What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

• What families think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
• Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• What to do instead: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

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

• What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements

1. Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue; settlements are often far below case value
2. What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

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 screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
• What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

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

• What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
• Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt the case
• What to do instead: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer

6. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”

• What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
• Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
• What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately; university process ≠ real accountability

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 are used against you; early settlements are lowball
• What to do instead: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

Watch our video on client mistakes that can ruin injury cases for more guidance on protecting your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions from City of Center Families

“Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT, Stephen F. Austin) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity barriers. Every case depends on specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

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

“My child ‘agreed’ to the initiation—do we still have a case?”
Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion isn’t true voluntary consent.

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

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

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

“How much does a hazing lawyer cost?”
We work on contingency fee—no upfront costs, no fee unless we win. We advance case expenses and get paid only from recovery. This makes justice accessible to families who couldn’t otherwise afford to take on wealthy fraternities and universities. Watch our contingency fee explanation video for details.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hasing Cases: City of Center Families Deserve Experienced Advocates

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. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC (Attorney911), we bring unique qualifications to hazing cases that make us the right choice for City of Center and East Texas families.

Our Insurance Insider Advantage: We Know How Fraternity & University Insurers Fight Claims

Mr. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national defense firm. He learned firsthand how large insurance companies:

• Value (and undervalue) injury claims using proprietary formulas
• Use delay tactics to pressure financially strained families
• Deploy “independent” medical exams that minimize injuries
• Fight coverage under intentional act exclusions
• Set reserves and negotiate settlements based on defense cost projections

This insider knowledge is invaluable for hazing families. When fraternity and university insurance companies use their standard playbook, we recognize every move because we used to run that playbook. We know how to counter lowball settlement offers, challenge biased medical exams, and force coverage where insurers want to deny it.

Complex Litigation Experience Against Massive Institutional Defendants

Managing partner Ralph Manginello brings experience taking on some of the world’s largest corporations:

• BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved in this billion-dollar disaster case
• Federal Court Experience: Admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• 25+ Years of Complex Litigation: From refinery accidents to commercial trucking cases requiring sophisticated expert coordination

Why this matters for hazing cases: National fraternities and major universities have unlimited legal budgets and teams of defense attorneys. They’re not intimidated by inexperienced lawyers. We’ve faced billion-dollar defendants before and won—we know how to investigate root causes, deploy expert teams, and build cases that force accountability regardless of opponent resources.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results

Our firm has recovered millions for families in wrongful death and severe injury cases, including:

• Logging accident brain injury with vision loss: multi-million dollar settlement
• Car accident leading to amputation: millions in recovery
• Offshore maritime injuries: significant settlements under Jones Act
• Commercial trucking wrongful death: millions for grieving families

Hasing application: These cases require the same sophisticated damage analysis—working with economists to calculate lifetime earning loss, life care planners to project future medical needs, and vocational experts to assess disability impacts. When hazing causes permanent injury or death, we know how to build and value these complex damage models.

Criminal + Civil Hasing Expertise: Understanding Both Sides

Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)—an elite criminal defense organization—means we understand:

• How criminal hazing charges are investigated and prosecuted
• The interaction between criminal cases and civil litigation
• How to advise witnesses or former members with potential criminal exposure
• Constitutional issues in searches of fraternity houses or seizure of digital evidence

This dual capability is crucial when hazing involves potential criminal charges alongside civil claims.

Investigative Depth & Expert Network Tailored to Hasing Cases

We maintain relationships with experts who understand hazing’s unique dynamics:

• Medical Experts: Rhabdomyolysis specialists, kidney injury doctors, toxicologists for alcohol poisoning cases
• Psychological Experts: PTSD/trauma specialists familiar with hazing’s psychological impact
• Greek Life Culture Experts: Understand group dynamics, tradition pressures, institutional patterns
• Digital Forensics Experts: Recover deleted messages, authenticate social media evidence
• Economists & Life Care Planners: Calculate lifetime costs of permanent injuries

Our investigation process for hazing cases includes:

• Digital evidence recovery and preservation
• Subpoenaing national fraternity records showing prior incidents
• Obtaining university conduct files through public records requests
• Interviewing witnesses with understanding of Greek life dynamics
• Building chronological timelines showing institutional knowledge

Why We’re Different: Empathy, Accountability, & Prevention Focus

We approach hazing cases with understanding that this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our goals extend beyond financial recovery:

• Get Answers: Uncover what really happened and who knew what when
• Hold Accountable: Ensure responsible individuals and institutions face consequences
• Prevent Future Harm: Use litigation to force policy changes that protect other students
• Honor Victims: For families who’ve lost children, help create legacy through accountability

We’ve seen how universities and fraternities prioritize reputation management over victim protection. Our job is to level that playing field so truth and accountability prevail.

Serving City of Center & East Texas Families from Our Texas Offices

While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas including City of Center, Shelby County, and all East Texas communities. We understand:

• The specific dynamics at Stephen F. Austin State University and other regional campuses
• East Texas court systems and procedures
• How to effectively represent families regardless of distance from our offices
• The importance of clear, frequent communication with clients throughout their case

Spanish-language services available: Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can consult with Spanish-speaking families directly.

Call to Action: City of Center Families Deserve Answers & Accountability

If you or your child experienced hazing at Stephen F. Austin State University, Texas A&M, University of Houston, UT Austin, or any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in City of Center, Shelby County, and throughout East Texas have the right to answers and accountability when institutions fail to protect students.

What to Expect in Your Free, Confidential Consultation

When you contact Attorney911:

1. We Listen Without Judgment: Tell us what happened in your own words
2. Evidence Review: We’ll examine any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
3. Legal Options Explained: We’ll outline possible paths: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or other approaches
4. Realistic Expectations: We’ll discuss likely timelines, challenges, and potential outcomes
5. Cost Discussion: We explain our contingency fee—no recovery, no fee
6. No Pressure: Take time to decide; we never push immediate decisions

Contact The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911 Today

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

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

Serving All Texas from Multiple Offices

• Houston Office: Primary location serving Greater Houston and statewide
• Austin Office: Serving Central Texas and UT Austin community
• Beaumont Office: Serving Southeast Texas and Lamar University area

Whether you’re in City of Center or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions responsible for protecting students must be held accountable when they fail. We have the experience, resources, and determination to help your family seek justice.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today for a free, confidential consultation. Let us help you understand your rights and options during this difficult time.

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