The Complete Guide to Hazing Litigation for Cibolo, Texas Families: Protecting Your Child at Texas Universities

If your child attends college in Texas, the unthinkable may feel closer than you realize. Right now, our firm is representing Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million hazing lawsuit against the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders. His story—forced to endure brutal workouts, humiliating “pledge fanny pack” requirements, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting—culminated in rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, and a four-day hospitalization after his urine turned brown.

This isn’t happening in some distant state. It’s unfolding right now in Harris County, Texas, and it represents exactly what hundreds of Cibolo families fear when they send their children to Texas universities. Whether your student attends Texas State University just down the road in San Marcos, the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M in College Station, or any other Texas campus, the reality is that hazing persists in 2025, disguised as tradition, team bonding, or character building.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for parents and families in Cibolo, Schertz, and across Guadalupe County who need to understand the modern reality of hazing, Texas laws that protect your children, and what legal options exist when institutions fail to keep students safe. We’ll walk you through what hazing really looks like today, break down the legal framework in plain English, examine patterns at major Texas universities, and explain how experienced hazing litigation can secure accountability and compensation for families throughout Texas.

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 parents in Cibolo who may not be familiar with modern Greek life or campus organizations, understanding what constitutes hazing is the first step toward protecting your child. Hazing in 2025 has evolved far beyond the caricatures of “animal house” antics—it’s a calculated, often digitally-coordinated pattern of abuse that can cause permanent physical and psychological harm.

The Legal Definition vs. Reality

Under Texas Education Code Chapter 37, hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against a student for purposes of initiation into, affiliation with, or maintaining membership in any organization. This includes activities that endanger mental or physical health or safety. What this means in practical terms for Cibolo families is that if your child feels pressured, coerced, or threatened into doing something dangerous or degrading to join or stay in a group, it’s likely hazing—even if they technically “agreed” to participate.

Modern Hazing Categories Every Cibolo Parent Should Recognize

Alcohol and Substance Hazing: The Most Common and Deadly

• Forced or coerced drinking games like “lineups,” “century club,” or “Big/Little” nights
• Pressure to consume unknown or dangerous substances
• The Leonel Bermudez case involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting

Physical Hazing: Beyond “Character Building”

• Extreme calisthenics disguised as “workouts” or “conditioning” (like the 100+ push-ups and 500 squats Bermudez endured)
• Paddling, beatings, or physical punishments
• Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions” or mandatory late-night activities
• Exposure to extreme elements (like being forced to lie in vomit-soaked grass or cold-weather exposure in underwear)

Psychological and Humiliating Hazing

• “Pledge fanny pack” requirements with degrading contents (condoms, sex toys, humiliating items)
• Public shaming rituals, forced embarrassing costumes or performances
• Social isolation from non-members, cutting off contact with family
• Verbal abuse, threats, and intimidation

Digital Hazing: The 21st Century Evolution

• 24/7 group chat monitoring with immediate response demands
• Forced social media posts or humiliating TikTok challenges
• Location tracking via apps like Find My Friends or Life360
• Cyberbullying and digital harassment if pledges don’t comply

Sexualized Hazing

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts or positions
• Sexualized humiliation and degradation

What makes modern hazing particularly dangerous for students from Cibolo and surrounding communities is how well organizations have learned to disguise these activities as “optional,” “tradition,” or “team bonding.” The power imbalance between new members and established members, combined with the fear of social exclusion, creates coercive environments where “consent” is anything but voluntary.

Texas Hazing Law: What Cibolo Families Need to Know

Understanding Texas law is crucial for Cibolo families navigating a hazing situation. Texas has specific statutes that both criminalize hazing and provide civil recourse for victims, but navigating these laws requires experienced counsel who understands how they intersect with university policies and federal regulations.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Foundation

Texas takes hazing seriously under Education Code Chapter 37. Here’s what every Cibolo parent should understand:

Criminal Penalties That Escalate with Harm:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing offenses (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
• Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing that causes injury requiring medical treatment
• State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death (like the rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure in the Bermudez case)

Critical Protections for Cibolo Students:

• Consent is NOT a defense (Texas Education Code §37.155) – Even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing
• Good-faith reporter immunity protects those who report hazing or call for help
• Failure to report by members/officers who know about hazing is itself a crime
• Organizational liability allows prosecution of fraternities/sororities themselves (fines up to $10,000)

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Different Paths to Accountability

When hazing occurs involving a Cibolo student, two separate legal tracks may unfold:

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State):

• Prosecutor decides whether to file charges
• Can result in jail time, fines, probation
• Common charges: hazing, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Standard of proof: “beyond a reasonable doubt”

Civil Cases (Brought by Victims/Families):

• Your family decides whether to file with legal counsel
• Seeks financial compensation for damages
• Can proceed even without criminal charges
• Standard of proof: “preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not)

Many Cibolo families pursue both tracks simultaneously. The Leonel Bermudez case against UH and Pi Kappa Phi is a civil lawsuit seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and punitive damages—while criminal charges against individual members may also be pending.

Federal Laws Overlaying Texas Cases

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

• Requires Texas universities receiving federal funds to publicly report hazing incidents
• Mandates hazing prevention education
• Phased implementation through 2026 means increased transparency coming

Title IX and Clery Act Implications:

• When hazing involves sexual harassment or assault, Title IX requires university response
• Clery Act requires reporting of certain crimes occurring on or near campus
• These federal laws can provide additional leverage in holding universities accountable

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Cibolo Student’s Hazing Case?

Understanding the full universe of potential defendants is crucial for achieving meaningful accountability:

Individual Students:

• Those who planned, executed, or covered up the hazing
• In the Bermudez case, 13 individual fraternity leaders were named

Local Chapters/Organizations:

• The fraternity, sorority, or club chapter itself
• Often have insurance policies that may provide coverage

National Headquarters:

• Organizations like Pi Kappa Phi national (named in the Bermudez lawsuit)
• Can be liable for inadequate supervision, training, or response to known patterns

Universities and Governing Boards:

• University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents are defendants in the Bermudez case
• Liability hinges on what they knew or should have known

Third Parties:

• Property owners/landlords of off-campus houses
• Bars or alcohol providers (under Texas dram shop laws)
• Security companies or event organizers

For Cibolo families, identifying all potentially liable parties early is essential—insurance coverage, assets, and accountability mechanisms vary dramatically between individual students, local chapters, national organizations, and universities.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Cibolo Families Can Learn

The national landscape of hazing litigation provides critical context for understanding what’s happening at Texas universities. These cases establish legal precedents, demonstrate patterns of institutional failure, and show what successful accountability looks like.

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: Deadly “Traditions”

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021):

• 20-year-old pledge died after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
• $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
• Chapter president personally ordered to pay $6.5 million

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):

• Died from alcohol poisoning after “Bible study” drinking game
• Led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act strengthening hazing laws
• $6.1 million verdict for family

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017):

• Died from traumatic brain injuries after bid acceptance night
• Security camera footage showed delayed medical response
• Resulted in Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania

What This Means for Cibolo Families: The forced drinking patterns in these fatal cases mirror exactly what allegedly happened to Leonel Bermudez at UH. National fraternities have known about these deadly “traditions” for years, creating powerful “foreseeability” arguments in Texas lawsuits.

Physical and Ritualized Hazing: Beyond Alcohol

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013):

• Died from head injuries during blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at retreat
• National fraternity criminally convicted of aggravated assault and manslaughter
• Banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Texas A&M Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

• Pledges allegedly doused with industrial-strength cleaner causing severe burns
• Required skin graft surgeries
• Chapter suspended for two years

What This Means for Cibolo Families: Physical hazing continues despite clear dangers. The off-campus retreat pattern in the Deng case is particularly relevant as Texas organizations increasingly move hazing to Airbnbs and remote locations to avoid detection.

Athletic Program Hazing: Not Just Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025):

• Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing within the football program
• Multiple lawsuits against university and coaching staff
• Head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially

What This Means for Cibolo Families: Hazing extends beyond fraternities to athletic teams, marching bands, spirit groups, and other organizations. Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets has faced similar allegations, showing that no campus organization is immune.

Plaintiff Victories and Settlement Patterns

Financial Recoveries Establishing Precedents:

• $14 million – David Bogenberger family (Northern Illinois University Pi Kappa Alpha)
• $12.6 million jury verdict – Chad Meredith family (University of Miami Kappa Sigma)
• $10 million+ – Sigma Chi settlement (College of Charleston)
• $6.1 million verdict – Max Gruver family (LSU Phi Delta Theta)
• $375,000 verdict – Joseph Snell (Bowie State Omega Psi Phi)

What This Means for Cibolo Families: These cases demonstrate that juries and courts take hazing seriously and award substantial damages. The patterns of institutional knowledge, failed supervision, and reckless conduct in these national cases directly inform how we approach Texas hazing litigation.

Texas University Focus: Where Cibolo Students Are at Risk

Cibolo families send their children to universities throughout Texas, each with its own Greek life culture, history of hazing incidents, and institutional response patterns. Understanding these campus-specific contexts is crucial for recognizing risks and knowing how to respond.

Texas State University: The Local Concern for Cibolo Families

Just 20 miles from Cibolo in San Marcos, Texas State University represents the most immediate concern for many Guadalupe County families. As a growing university with active Greek life, understanding its hazing landscape is essential.

Campus Culture and Greek Life:

• Over 40 fraternity and sorority chapters
• Active Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council, and National Pan-Hellenic Council
• Mix of traditional Greek organizations and multicultural groups

Documented Incidents and Responses:

• Periodic suspensions and probations for hazing violations
• Public hazing reports available through university conduct office
• Ongoing education and prevention programs

What Cibolo Parents Should Know:

• Texas State students often live off-campus in San Marcos apartments where hazing may occur
• University police and San Marcos PD share jurisdiction depending on location
• The university’s Dean of Students office handles hazing reports
• Texas State’s size and growth mean new chapters emerge regularly, sometimes with inadequate oversight

If Hazing Occurs at Texas State:

• Report immediately to Texas State University Police (512-245-2805) and Dean of Students
• Document whether incidents occurred on-campus, in Greek housing, or off-campus rentals
• Preserve all digital evidence through screenshots before deletion
• Contact an attorney familiar with Hays County courts and Texas State procedures

University of Houston: The Flagship Case Location

While further from Cibolo geographically, UH’s current hazing litigation directly impacts Texas legal precedents and institutional responses statewide.

The Leonel Bermudez Case Details:

• Victim: Leonel Bermudez, transfer student and fall 2025 pledge
• Organizations: Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter at UH
• Allegations: Extreme physical hazing including 100+ push-ups, 500 squats, forced consumption until vomiting, hose spraying “similar to waterboarding,” humiliating “pledge fanny pack” requirements
• Medical Harm: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, four-day hospitalization, brown urine, critically high creatine kinase levels
• Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national HQ, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual fraternity leaders
• Institutional Response: Chapter suspended Nov 6, 2025; charter surrendered Nov 14, 2025; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”

UH’s Greek Life Landscape:

• 60+ fraternity and sorority chapters across multiple councils
• Mix of historic chapters and newer organizations
• Urban campus with both on-campus housing and off-campus chapter houses

What the Bermudez Case Means for Cibolo Families:

• Demonstrates that severe, life-threatening hazing occurs at Texas universities
• Shows how multiple entities can share liability (university, national HQ, local chapter, individuals)
• Provides a current, Texas-based example of hazing litigation in progress
• Highlights the medical seriousness of hazing injuries beyond immediate visible harm

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

Many Cibolo students choose Texas A&M, drawn by its academic programs, tradition, and tight-knit community. However, this very culture can sometimes enable hazing behaviors.

Corps of Cadets Hazing History:

• 2023 lawsuit alleging cadet was bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
• Tradition-heavy environment where hazing can be disguised as “character building”
• Unique military-style structure with distinct chain of command challenges

Greek Life Incidents:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon chemical burns case (2021) resulting in skin grafts
• Periodic chapter suspensions for alcohol hazing and physical abuse
• Active Greek community with significant social influence on campus

What Cibolo Aggie Parents Should Watch For:

• Extreme exhaustion or unexplained injuries after “corps” or Greek events
• Pressure to prioritize organization activities over academics
• Secretive behavior about initiation activities
• Sudden personality changes or withdrawal from non-organization friends

Reporting at Texas A&M:

• Corps-specific reporting channels through command structure
• University police and Dean of Students for non-corps incidents
• Brazos County courts handle local litigation
• The university’s size and tradition can sometimes create institutional resistance to external scrutiny

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Tradition

UT Austin’s public hazing violation database provides unprecedented transparency, yet incidents continue to occur—demonstrating that public reporting alone doesn’t eliminate hazing.

Public Hazing Violations Database:

• Maintains searchable record of organizational violations
• Includes dates, conduct descriptions, and sanctions
• Shows patterns of repeated violations by some organizations

Documented Incidents:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
• Various spirit organizations sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol hazing
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon lawsuit (2024): Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted, suffering dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose

UT’s Greek Life Scale:

• One of the largest Greek systems in Texas
• Historic chapters with significant resources and alumni networks
• Urban campus with chapters in West Campus and surrounding areas

What Cibolo Longhorn Parents Should Know:

• Check UT’s hazing database if concerned about specific organizations
• Understand that even publicly sanctioned chapters may continue problematic behaviors
• Recognize that Austin’s off-campus housing market means much hazing occurs outside university direct control

Legal Venues for UT Cases:

• Travis County courts handle local litigation
• UT Police Department and Austin PD share jurisdiction
• The university’s legal team is experienced in defending hazing claims

Southern Methodist University: Private University Dynamics

SMU’s private status and affluent student body create unique dynamics that Cibolo families should understand when considering this option.

Documented Incidents:

• Kappa Alpha Order suspension (2017) for paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation
• Periodic Greek life suspensions for policy violations
• Active Greek community with significant social and financial resources

Private University Implications:

• Less public transparency than state schools
• Different legal standards for institutional liability
• Potential for confidential settlements and non-disclosure agreements

What Cibolo SMU Parents Should Consider:

• Private universities may handle reports more discreetly, sometimes prioritizing reputation
• Alumni networks and donor relationships can influence institutional responses
• Still subject to Texas criminal hazing laws and federal regulations
• Civil cases can compel discovery even without public records requests

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Historical Context

Baylor’s religious identity and history of institutional challenges create a complex environment for addressing hazing concerns.

Documented Incidents:

• Baseball team hazing investigation (2020) resulting in 14 player suspensions
• Periodic Greek life sanctions for alcohol and initiation violations
• Ongoing efforts to balance traditional campus culture with student safety

Institutional Context:

• History of scrutiny over football and Title IX issues
• Religious identity that can influence disciplinary approaches
• Smaller Greek system than some Texas universities but still active

What Cibolo Baylor Parents Should Understand:

• Religious framework may influence how students and parents perceive reporting
• University may emphasize internal resolution over external accountability
• Still subject to Texas hazing laws and potential civil liability
• Waco’s McLennan County courts handle local litigation

Fraternity and Sorority National Histories: Patterns That Predict Risk

National organizations operating at Texas universities carry histories that establish patterns of foreseeable risk. For Cibolo families evaluating specific chapters, understanding these national patterns is crucial for assessing risk and building liability cases.

High-Risk National Organizations with Documented Patterns

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

• Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State University fatal alcohol hazing ($10M settlement)
• David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois University fatal alcohol hazing ($14M settlement)
• UH Chapter History: Prior incidents including alleged physical hazing
• Pattern: Repeated “Big/Little” drinking traditions despite national knowledge of risks

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

• University of Alabama: Traumatic brain injury lawsuit from alleged hazing
• Texas A&M: Chemical burns case requiring skin grafts
• UT Austin: 2024 assault lawsuit alleging severe injuries
• Pattern: Physical violence and dangerous substance exposure across multiple chapters

Pi Kappa Phi:

• Andrew Coffey: Florida State University fatal alcohol hazing
• Leonel Bermudez: UH rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure case
• Pattern: Alcohol-focused hazing traditions persisting despite national policies

Phi Delta Theta:

• Max Gruver: LSU fatal alcohol hazing leading to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act
• Pattern: Drinking games disguised as “education” or “tradition”

Kappa Alpha Order:

• SMU Chapter: 2017 suspension for paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation
• Pattern: Physical discipline traditions rooted in historical practices

Why National Histories Matter for Cibolo Families

Foreseeability in Legal Cases:
When a Texas chapter repeats behaviors that caused injuries or deaths at other chapters, it demonstrates that the national organization knew or should have known the risks. This “foreseeability” strengthens negligence claims against national headquarters.

Pattern Evidence:
Multiple incidents across different campuses establish patterns that national organizations cannot credibly claim were “rogue” or “unexpected.” This pattern evidence is powerful in convincing courts that systemic failures, not isolated incidents, are to blame.

Punitive Damages Arguments:
When national organizations continue collecting dues and maintaining relationships with chapters despite knowing dangerous patterns, this can support claims for punitive damages—designed to punish reckless conduct and deter future harm.

Insurance Coverage Implications:
National organizations typically carry insurance that may cover hazing claims. Their documented knowledge of risks affects how insurers respond to claims and whether they attempt to deny coverage based on “expected or intended” injury exclusions.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Damages for Cibolo Families

When hazing affects your Cibolo student, understanding how experienced attorneys build cases can help you make informed decisions about pursuing accountability and compensation.

Critical Evidence Categories in Modern Hazing Cases

Digital Communications (The Most Important Evidence):

• Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, fraternity-specific apps
• Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok content
• Deleted message recovery: Digital forensics can often recover “disappearing” messages
• In the Bermudez case, group chats likely contained planning discussions, instructions, and reactions to hazing events

Medical Documentation:

• Emergency room records detailing injuries and patient statements
• Lab results (like the critically high creatine kinase levels showing rhabdomyolysis)
• Hospitalization records and discharge summaries
• Follow-up care documentation showing ongoing treatment needs
• Psychological evaluations for PTSD, depression, anxiety, or trauma

Photographic and Video Evidence:

• Injury photos with date/time stamps
• Location photos of where hazing occurred
• Social media posts or stories showing hazing events
• Security camera or doorbell footage from houses/venues

Organizational Records:

• Chapter meeting minutes, pledge manuals, initiation scripts
• National policy documents and training materials
• Prior incident reports and disciplinary records
• Membership rosters and officer lists

University Documents:

• Prior conduct violations involving the same organization
• Clery Act reports and annual security disclosures
• Internal emails and administrative communications
• Policy manuals and enforcement procedures

Witness Statements:

• Other pledges who experienced similar treatment
• Former members willing to speak about organizational culture
• Roommates, friends, or bystanders who observed behaviors
• Medical providers who treated injuries

Texas-Specific Legal Strategies

Overcoming Sovereign Immunity for Public Universities:

• Public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT have some immunity protections
• Strategies include arguing gross negligence, ministerial duty violations, or suing individuals in personal capacity
• Even with immunity arguments, universities often settle to avoid discovery and bad publicity

Navigating Insurance Coverage Disputes:

• Fraternity and university insurers often argue hazing is excluded as “intentional conduct”
• We counter by framing claims around negligent supervision, training, and enforcement
• Identify all potential insurance sources: chapter policies, national policies, university umbrella coverage, individual homeowner policies

Statute of Limitations Management:

• Generally 2 years from injury date in Texas, but discovery rule may extend
• For ongoing hazing or covered-up injuries, time may not start until harm is discovered
• Immediate legal consultation preserves all options before deadlines expire

Damage Categories in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost educational costs (withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships)
• Lost earning capacity for permanent injuries
• Therapy and counseling costs

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Compensable):

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress, PTSD, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment of life and educational experience
• Reputational harm

Wrongful Death Damages (for Fatal Cases):

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support and companionship
• Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering
• Loss of guidance and counsel

Punitive Damages (When Conduct is Egregious):

• Available when defendants show reckless indifference or intentional misconduct
• Designed to punish and deter future similar conduct
• Subject to Texas caps in some cases but can be substantial

Settlement vs. Trial Considerations

Most Cases Settle Confidentially:

• Avoids public trial exposure for victims
• Provides guaranteed recovery without appeal risk
• Often includes non-disclosure agreements
• Terms may include institutional reforms beyond money

When Trials Make Sense:

• Defendants refuse reasonable settlement offers
• Public accountability is prioritized over confidentiality
• Establishing legal precedents is important for systemic change
• Significant punitive damages are warranted

The Bermudez case against UH and Pi Kappa Phi is currently in litigation, demonstrating that serious cases may proceed through full legal process when institutions refuse accountability.

Practical Guides for Cibolo Parents, Students, and Witnesses

For Cibolo Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Cibolo Student May Be Experiencing Hazing:

Physical Indicators:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
• Extreme fatigue and sleep deprivation beyond normal college stress
• Sudden weight changes from food/water restriction or stress
• Signs of alcohol poisoning or substance use (even if not typical for your child)

Behavioral Changes:

• Increased secrecy about organizational activities
• Withdrawal from family, hometown friends, or non-organization activities
• Personality shifts: new anxiety, depression, irritability, or anger
• Defensive responses when asked about the organization
• Constant phone monitoring for group chat messages
• Financial pressure or unexplained expenses

Academic Red Flags:

• Grades dropping suddenly
• Missing classes or falling asleep in class
• Skipping academic commitments for “mandatory” organizational events

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing Concerns:

1. Choose a private, calm setting without distractions
2. Use open-ended questions: “How are things going with [organization]?”
3. Express concern without judgment: “I’ve noticed you seem exhausted lately.”
4. Emphasize safety over loyalty: “Your health is more important than any group.”
5. Listen without interrupting if they start to share
6. Reinforce your support: “Nothing you tell me will change how much I love you.”

If Your Child Reveals Hazing:

1. Prioritize safety: Remove from dangerous situations immediately
2. Seek medical care: Even if injuries seem minor, document everything
3. Preserve evidence: Screenshot messages, photograph injuries, save physical items
4. Document details: Write down everything while memories are fresh
5. Contact an attorney: Before reporting to university or police
6. Avoid confrontation: Don’t contact the organization directly

Working with the University:

• Document all communications with administrators
• Ask specific questions about prior incidents involving the organization
• Request copies of all policies and past disciplinary actions
• Understand that university interests may not align with your family’s
• Never sign university settlement offers without legal review

For Cibolo Students: Self-Protection and Safe Exit Strategies

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do I feel pressured or coerced to participate?
• Would I do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
• Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Am I being told to keep secrets from university officials or my family?
• Are only new members required to do this while older members watch or participate?

If You’re in Immediate Danger:

1. Call 911 – Texas law protects those who call for help in good faith
2. Get to safety – Your dorm, a friend’s apartment, a public place
3. Seek medical attention – Even if you think you’re “fine”
4. Preserve evidence – Screenshot messages before they’re deleted

Safe Exit Strategies from Dangerous Situations:

• Have a “safe word” with friends outside the organization
• Use the “buddy system” with other new members
• Know where emergency exits are located
• Keep your phone charged and accessible
• Trust your instincts – if something feels wrong, it probably is

How to Leave an Organization Safely:

1. Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, trusted friend)
2. Send a clear, written resignation: “I resign my membership effective immediately.”
3. Do NOT attend “one last meeting” – this is often for pressure or intimidation
4. Document any retaliation or harassment
5. Report safety concerns to campus police and Dean of Students

Evidence Preservation for Students:

• Screenshot everything: Group chats, DMs, emails with timestamps visible
• Photograph injuries: Multiple angles, include date/time, show progression over days
• Save physical items: Clothing, props, receipts for forced purchases
• Voice memos: Texas is a one-party consent state – you can record conversations you’re part of
• Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in your records

For Witnesses and Former Members: Coming Forward Safely

If You Witnessed Hazing:

• Your testimony could prevent future harm to others
• Texas law protects good-faith reporters from retaliation
• You may have legal exposure if you participated or failed to report
• Consulting an attorney can help navigate your specific situation

If You Participated and Now Regret It:

• Many former members feel guilt but fear consequences
  cant happen – you’re not alone
• Cooperating with investigations can be part of making amends
• Legal counsel can help protect your rights while you do the right thing

How to Report Anonymously:

• National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
• University anonymous reporting systems
• Local police anonymous tip lines
• Through an attorney who can protect your identity

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Cibolo Family’s Hazing Case

1. Letting Your Child Delete Evidence
The Mistake: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble” leading to deleted messages
The Reality: Looks like a cover-up, can be obstruction of justice, makes case nearly impossible
The Solution: Preserve everything immediately – screenshots, photos, physical items

2. Confronting the Organization Directly
The Mistake: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind” by calling chapter leaders
The Reality: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
The Solution: Document everything, then call an attorney before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Resolution” Agreements
The Mistake: Trusting university administrators who pressure quick settlements
The Reality: You may waive legal rights for minimal compensation
The Solution: Never sign anything without attorney review – universities protect themselves first

4. Posting on Social Media
The Mistake: “I want people to know what happened” via Facebook or Instagram
The Reality: Defense attorneys screenshot everything, inconsistencies hurt credibility
The Solution: Let your attorney control public messaging – document privately first

5. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”
The Mistake: Trusting internal university processes to deliver justice
The Reality: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statutes run out
The Solution: Preserve evidence NOW, consult attorney immediately

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without Counsel
The Mistake: “They just need my statement to process the claim”
The Reality: Recorded statements are used against you, early settlements are lowball
The Solution: “My attorney will contact you” – then say nothing else

7. Letting Your Child Attend “One Last Meeting”
The Mistake: “They just want to talk before you do anything drastic”
The Reality: Pressure, intimidation, or extracting damaging statements
The Solution: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through your attorney

Frequently Asked Questions for Cibolo Families

Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals personally. Private universities like SMU and Baylor have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—consultation with experienced hazing counsel is essential.

Is hazing a felony in Texas?
It can be. Texas law makes basic hazing a Class B misdemeanor, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. The rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure in the Bermudez case would likely support felony charges given the severity of injury.

What if our child “agreed” to the activities?
Consent is NOT a defense to hazing under Texas Education Code §37.155. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion isn’t truly voluntary. This is precisely why hazing laws exist—to protect people from dangerous traditions even when they feel pressured to participate.

How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
Generally 2 years from the date of injury in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In hazing cases with cover-ups or delayed symptom onset (like kidney damage developing days after extreme exercise), the timeframe can be complex. Immediate legal consultation preserves all options.

What if the hazing happened off-campus?
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national organizations can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major cases (like the Pi Delta Psi retreat death) occurred off-campus and still resulted in substantial judgments. The key is connection to the organization, not physical location.

Will our child’s name be public?
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. The decision about pursuing public litigation vs. confidential resolution is yours, with guidance from counsel.

How much does hiring a hazing attorney cost?
We work on contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This makes experienced legal representation accessible regardless of family resources. Initial consultations are always free and confidential.

What about criminal charges vs. civil cases?
They proceed separately. Criminal cases are brought by prosecutors seeking punishment (jail, fines). Civil cases are brought by victims seeking compensation. One can proceed without the other. Many families pursue both tracks simultaneously for full accountability.

How long will a hazing case take?
Timelines vary widely based on case complexity, defendant responses, and whether settlement occurs. Some cases resolve in months, others take years if litigation proceeds through trial. We provide realistic timelines during consultation based on your specific situation.

Why The Manginello Law Firm for Cibolo Hazing Cases

When your Cibolo family faces the aftermath of hazing, you need more than a general personal injury attorney. You need lawyers who understand how powerful institutions defend themselves—and how to secure accountability anyway. Our unique qualifications make us particularly equipped to handle the complex challenges of Texas hazing litigation.

Insurance Insider Advantage: We Know Their Playbook

Mr. Lupe Peña’s Defense Background:

• Former insurance defense attorney at a national firm
• Knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value claims
• Understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it”

This insider knowledge is invaluable when facing well-funded institutional defendants. We anticipate their moves, counter their strategies, and build cases that overcome their standard defenses.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello’s BP Texas City Credential:

• One of the few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation
• Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
• Not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams
• “We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won”

Hazing cases pit families against institutions with unlimited legal budgets. Our experience facing massive corporate defendants prepares us for exactly this fight.

Current Texas Hazing Litigation Leadership

The Leonel Bermudez Case:

• We’re actively litigating one of Texas’s most serious current hazing cases
• $10 million lawsuit against UH, Pi Kappa Phi national, and 13 individuals
• Establishing precedents that benefit all Texas hazing victims
• Demonstrating our commitment to taking on powerful institutions

While other firms talk about hazing experience, we’re in court right now fighting for a Texas student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure from hazing.

Comprehensive Damages Analysis

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience:

• Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
• Collaboration with economists, life care planners, vocational experts
• Experience valuing lifetime care needs for catastrophic injuries
• “We don’t settle cheap – we build cases that force accountability”

Hazing cases require sophisticated damage calculation, especially for ongoing medical needs, lost earning capacity, and non-economic harm. We have the expert network and experience to fully value your case.

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability

HCCLA Membership and Criminal Defense Experience:

• Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association signals elite criminal defense capability
• Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
• Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
• Navigates parallel proceedings effectively

Many hazing cases involve both criminal charges and civil claims. Our dual capability ensures coordinated strategy across both tracks.

Texas-Specific Geographic Mastery

Serving Cibolo and Throughout Texas:

• Based in Houston with reach throughout Texas
• Understand Texas courts, procedures, and local nuances
• Experience with university-specific policies and Texas education laws
• “We know Texas hazing law because we practice it every day”

From Guadalupe County courts to Travis County to Harris County, we understand the Texas legal landscape where your case will be heard.

Investigative Depth and Resources

Digital Forensics and Evidence Preservation:

• Network of digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages
• Experience obtaining hidden organizational records through discovery
• Medical expert network for injury documentation and testimony
• “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does”

Modern hazing cases hinge on digital evidence and institutional records. We have the resources and expertise to uncover what organizations try to hide.

Empathetic, Victim-Centered Approach

Understanding Family Trauma:

• We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face
• Our job extends beyond legal victory to helping families heal
• We prioritize your child’s wellbeing throughout the process
• “We fight for accountability so no other family suffers this way”

We recognize that hazing cases involve profound personal trauma. Our approach balances aggressive advocacy with compassionate support for your family’s healing.

Call to Action for Cibolo Families

If your child has experienced hazing at any Texas university—whether Texas State University nearby, UT Austin, Texas A&M, Baylor, SMU, UH, or any other campus—you don’t have to navigate this alone. The path to accountability begins with understanding your rights and options under Texas law.

What to Expect in Your Free, Confidential Consultation

When you contact The Manginello Law Firm, you’ll receive:

1. Compassionate Listening Without Judgment:

• We’ll listen to your family’s story in complete confidence
• Understand the specific facts of your situation
• Answer your immediate questions about safety and next steps

2. Case Evaluation and Legal Options:

• Review any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, messages, medical records)
• Explain your legal options: criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
• Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect at each stage

3. Strategic Guidance Tailored to Your Goals:

• Help you define what accountability looks like for your family
• Explain the pros and cons of different approaches
• Develop a plan that aligns with your family’s values and needs

4. Clear Explanation of Costs and Process:

• Detail our contingency fee structure (you pay nothing unless we win)
• Explain the legal process in plain English
• Provide honest assessment of challenges and opportunities

5. No Pressure Decision Making:

• Take time to consider your options
• Consult with other family members or advisors
• We’re here when you’re ready to move forward

Contact The Manginello Law Firm Today

For Immediate Assistance:

• 24/7 Emergency Line: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct Office: (713) 528-9070
• Cell: (713) 443-4781

Online Resources and Information:

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

Spanish Language Services:

• Hablamos Español – Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com
• Servicios legales completos disponibles en español

Educational Videos for Cibolo Families:

• Evidence Preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
• Statute of Limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• Client Mistakes to Avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
• Contingency Fee Explanation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Whether you’re in Cibolo, Schertz, Marion, or anywhere in Guadalupe County, if hazing has impacted your family at a Texas university, we’re here to help. From Texas State University just minutes away to campuses across the state, we understand the Texas hazing landscape and will fight to protect your child’s rights and secure the accountability your family deserves.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let us help you turn this painful experience into a path toward healing, accountability, and prevention for future students.

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

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

1. Click2Houston (KPRC 2) — “‘Urine was brown’: Pledge sues over severe hazing at University of Houston’s shut down Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”

   • URL: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/

2. ABC13 Eyewitness News (KTRK) — “Waterboarding, forced eating, physical punishment: Lawsuit alleges abuse faced by injured pledge at UH’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”

   • URL: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos:

1. “📱 Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case? | Attorney911 Explains”

   • URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

2. “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case? | Attorney911 with Injury Lawyer Ralph Manginello”

   • URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

3. “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case | Attorney911 with Ralph Manginello”

   • URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

4. “📢 How Do Contingency Fees Work? Injury Lawyer Explains!”

   • URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

1. Attorney911 — Main Website & Contact
   • URL: https://attorney911.com