The Complete Guide to Hazing Lawsuits for Lipan, Texas Families: Holding Fraternities, Sororities, and Universities Accountable

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

For families in Lipan, Granbury, and across Hood County, sending a child to college represents a proud milestone and a significant investment in their future. The images we hold are of classrooms, football games, and lifelong friendships. Rarely do we imagine our children being forced to drink until they vomit, endure brutal physical punishments, or suffer humiliating degradation—all in the name of “tradition” or “brotherhood.”

Yet this exact scenario unfolded just a few hours from Lipan at the University of Houston, where in late 2025, Attorney911 filed a $10 million hazing lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez. The allegations against the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter are stomach-turning: forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion, and a resulting medical catastrophe of rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure that left Bermudez hospitalized for four days. His urine was brown. This is not an isolated horror story from decades past—it’s happening right now in Texas, at universities where Hood County families send their children.

This comprehensive guide exists because what happened to Leonel Bermudez could happen to any Texas student. We’ve created it specifically for Lipan parents and families to understand:

1. What modern hazing really looks like—beyond the stereotypes
2. Texas hazing laws and liability frameworks that protect your child
3. The national patterns of fraternity and sorority hazing that repeat across campuses
4. What’s happening at Texas universities where Lipan students attend
5. Your legal options and practical steps if hazing has impacted your family

Whether your child attends Tarleton State in Stephenville (just 30 miles from Lipan), Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Baylor in Waco, or any other Texas campus, the legal principles and accountability pathways remain consistent. Hazing is not a rite of passage—it’s a crime that can result in serious civil liability.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES IN LIPAN

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 Beyond the Stereotypes

For parents who grew up with movies like “Animal House,” the concept of hazing might seem like harmless pranks or excessive partying. The reality in 2025 is far more dangerous, sophisticated, and psychologically damaging. Hazing is no longer just about drinking games—it’s a systematic process of breaking down individuals through calculated abuse that leaves lasting physical and psychological scars.

The Modern Definition of Hazing

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

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

In plain Texas English: If someone makes your child do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk, that’s hazing under Texas law.

The Five Categories of Modern Hazing

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the deadliest form. It includes forced chugging, “Big/Little” nights with handles of liquor, drinking games with punitive consumption, and coerced use of drugs. The Pi Kappa Phi case at UH featured forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting—a classic example of substance hazing.

2. Physical Hazing
Beyond paddling, this includes extreme physical exertion beyond safe limits (like the 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in the UH case), sleep deprivation, food/water restriction, exposure to extreme temperatures, and dangerous physical “tests” or rituals.

3. Psychological and Humiliation Hazing
This includes verbal abuse, public shaming, forced wearing of degrading costumes or accessories (like the “pledge fanny pack” at UH containing condoms and sex toys), social isolation, and manipulation designed to break down self-worth.

4. Sexualized Hazing
Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexually degrading positions (like the “roasted pig” position reported in Texas A&M Corps cases), and sexual assault or coercion under the guise of initiation.

5. Digital Hazing
A rapidly evolving category that includes 24/7 group chat monitoring, forced social media posts, geo-tracking demands, digital humiliation through memes or edited videos, and evidence destruction instructions. This is particularly dangerous because it creates a permanent digital record while enabling rapid evidence destruction.

Where Hazing Happens: Beyond Fraternity Row

While fraternities and sororities dominate hazing headlines, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

• Corps of Cadets and Military-Style Groups (significant at Texas A&M)
• Athletic Teams (from football to cheerleading)
• Spirit and Tradition Groups (like Texas Cowboys at UT)
• Marching Bands and Performing Arts Groups
• Academic and Honor Societies
• Cultural and Identity-Based Organizations

The common thread is power imbalance, tradition, and secrecy. Organizations with hierarchical structures and strong traditions are most vulnerable to hazing cultures.

Texas Hazing Law: Your Legal Framework for Accountability

Texas has some of the nation’s clearest hazing laws, but understanding how they work in practice is crucial for Lipan families seeking justice.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hazing Statute

§37.151 – Definition of Hazing
Texas law defines hazing broadly as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers mental or physical health for purposes of initiation or affiliation. Key elements:

• Location doesn’t matter—on or off campus, at retreats, or private homes
• Mental OR physical harm qualifies
• “Reckless” is enough—they don’t need to intend harm, just be reckless about the risk
• Consent is NOT a defense (Texas Education Code §37.155 explicitly states this)

§37.152 – Criminal Penalties

• Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
• Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
• State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

§37.153 – Organizational Liability
Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be criminally prosecuted and fined up to $10,000 per violation if they authorized or encouraged hazing, or if officers knew and failed to report it.

§37.154 – Good-Faith Reporting Immunity
Individuals who report hazing in good faith are immune from civil or criminal liability. This protects bystanders who call 911.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Two Tracks

Criminal Cases

• Brought by the state (prosecutor)
• Aim: punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Common charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Example: After Max Gruver’s death at LSU, fraternity members faced negligent homicide charges

Civil Cases

• Brought by victims or families
• Aim: compensation and accountability
• Focus: negligence, wrongful death, emotional distress, institutional liability
• Can proceed even without criminal charges

Most families pursue civil cases because:

1. Criminal penalties don’t compensate for medical bills, therapy, or lost opportunities
2. Civil discovery can uncover institutional cover-ups
3. Monetary damages can force institutional change

Federal Law Overlay: Title IX, Clery, and the Stop Campus Hazing Act

Title IX
When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility, Title IX requires universities to investigate and remedy. This can be crucial for cases involving sexualized hazing.

Clery Act
Requires universities to report campus crime statistics, including hazing incidents that constitute crimes. Failure to report can result in fines and loss of federal funding.

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
This new federal law requires colleges receiving federal aid to:

• Report hazing incidents transparently
• Strengthen hazing education and prevention
• Maintain public hazing databases (phased in by 2026)

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

1. Individual Students
Those who planned, participated in, or covered up the hazing. In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, 13 individual members were named as defendants.

2. Local Chapter/Organization
The fraternity/sorority chapter itself, plus its housing corporation. Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks 125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations with IRS EINs, including:

• Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN: 462267515, Frisco, TX 75035)
• Kappa Sigma – Mu Gamma Chapter Inc (EIN: 273662583, Lufkin, TX 75904)
• Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc (EIN: 475370943, Houston, TX 77204)

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters
National organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters. They’re liable when they knew or should have known about dangerous patterns. Pi Kappa Phi national was sued in the UH case despite claiming “zero tolerance.”

4. Universities and Governing Boards
Schools can be liable for negligent supervision, deliberate indifference, or Title IX violations. The University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents are defendants in the Bermudez case.

5. Third Parties
Property owners, landlords, alcohol providers (under dram shop laws), and security companies.

National Hazing Case Patterns: The Script Repeats Itself

The hazing that happened at UH follows a tragic national script. Understanding these patterns helps Lipan families recognize that what happened to their child wasn’t an isolated incident—it was a predictable outcome of systemic failures.

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Deadliest Pattern

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

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

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• “Bible study” drinking game: wrong answers = forced drinking
• Blood alcohol content: 0.495% (six times legal limit)
• Died from alcohol toxicity
• Led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
• $6.1 million verdict against fraternity members

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

• “Big Brother Night” with handles of hard liquor
• Died from acute alcohol poisoning
• FSU suspended all Greek life temporarily
• Pi Kappa Phi national faced significant liability

Physical and Ritualized Hazing

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

• Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
• Died from traumatic brain injury
• National fraternity criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
• Banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)

• Forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”
• Suffered permanent, severe brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
• Settlements with 22 defendants, reportedly multi-million dollar
• Non-fatal but catastrophic injury case

What These Cases Mean for Lipan Families

1. Forced drinking patterns are predictable and preventable—national fraternities know the risks
2. Delayed medical care worsens outcomes and increases liability—calling 911 immediately is critical
3. National organizations have deep pockets—settlements regularly reach millions
4. Universities face increasing liability—schools are no longer immune
5. Individual members can face massive personal liability—the former Pi Kappa Alpha president’s $6.5 million judgment shows officers aren’t protected

Texas Universities: Where Lipan Families Send Their Children

Hood County families send students to universities across Texas. Some attend nearby schools like Tarleton State (30 miles away), while others go to major hubs like Texas A&M, UT Austin, or Texas Tech. Each campus has its own hazing landscape.

Tarleton State University (Stephenville, TX – 30 miles from Lipan)

Campus & Culture Snapshot
As the closest four-year university to Lipan, Tarleton serves many Hood County families. With growing Greek life and strong agricultural and education programs, it represents a common choice for local students.

Hazing Policy & Reporting
Tarleton prohibits hazing under University Policy 34.05, defining it similarly to Texas law. Reports go through the Dean of Students Office, University Police, or anonymously via the Integrity Hotline.

Documented Incidents & Response
While major public hazing incidents have been limited, Greek life organizations have faced disciplinary actions for alcohol violations and conduct issues. The university’s location in a smaller community means incidents may receive less media attention but can be equally devastating for affected families.

How a Hazing Case at Tarleton Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Erath County courts
• Involved agencies: Tarleton Police Department, Stephenville PD
• Common defendants: Local chapters, national organizations, individual members
• Considerations: Smaller community dynamics may affect witness cooperation

What Tarleton Students & Lipan Parents Should Do

• Report immediately to Tarleton Dean of Students: (254) 968-9080
• Document all communications with university officials
• Understand that despite the smaller campus, national fraternity/sorority insurance and liability structures are the same as at larger schools
• Local legal counsel with statewide reach is crucial—national organizations bring in experienced defense firms regardless of campus size

Texas Christian University (Fort Worth, TX – 60 miles from Lipan)

Campus & Culture Snapshot
TCU’s strong Greek life system (approximately 40% of students join fraternities/sororities) makes it a hub for Hood County students seeking a traditional college experience. The campus has faced multiple hazing incidents in recent years.

Hazing Policy & Reporting
TCU’s Student Conduct Code prohibits hazing and requires reporting. The university provides anonymous reporting options and emphasizes amnesty for those seeking help in emergencies.

Documented Incidents & Response

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): Chapter suspended after reports of paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation
• Multiple other chapters have faced disciplinary action for alcohol-related hazing violations
• TCU generally responds with suspensions, educational requirements, and probation

How a Hazing Case at TCU Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Tarrant County courts (Fort Worth)
• TCU as a private university has different liability considerations than public schools
• Strong alumni networks can complicate internal investigations
• National fraternity headquarters often intervene quickly in TCU cases due to the campus’s high profile

What TCU Students & Lipan Parents Should Do

• TCU students should report to Office of Student Affairs: (817) 257-7926
• Document everything—TCU’s administration often moves quickly to contain situations
• Be aware that private university disciplinary processes differ from public institutions
• TCU’s location in a major metro means more media scrutiny but also more experienced defense representation for organizations

Baylor University (Waco, TX – 80 miles from Lipan)

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Baylor’s combination of academic reputation, athletic success, and Christian identity attracts many Texas families. The campus has faced significant scrutiny for institutional handling of misconduct following the football sexual assault scandal, creating both challenges and opportunities for hazing accountability.

Hazing Policy & Reporting
Baylor’s Student Policies and Procedures prohibit hazing and require reporting. The university has implemented numerous reforms following prior scandals, potentially making it more responsive to misconduct reports.

Documented Incidents & Response

• Baseball team hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation
• Various Greek life organizations have faced disciplinary action
• Baylor’s history of institutional misconduct may affect how hazing cases are perceived and handled

How a Hazing Case at Baylor Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: McLennan County courts (Waco)
• Baylor’s private religious status affects some legal arguments but doesn’t eliminate liability
• The university’s recent history of institutional reform efforts may influence settlement discussions
• National organizations monitor Baylor closely given prior institutional issues

What Baylor Students & Lipan Parents Should Do

• Report to Baylor’s Title IX Office or Student Conduct: (254) 710-8455
• Document all communications—Baylor has faced criticism for inadequate record-keeping in past cases
• Consider that the university may be particularly sensitive to negative publicity given recent history
• Legal counsel experienced with private religious institutions can navigate unique aspects of Baylor cases

Major Texas Universities Lipan Students Attend

Beyond nearby campuses, Hood County families send students to major universities across Texas. These institutions have well-documented hazing histories:

University of Houston

• Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Chapter (2025): $10 million lawsuit for hazing causing rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
• Multiple other chapters have faced suspensions for hazing violations
• UH’s large commuter population creates unique dynamics for Greek life

Texas A&M University

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021): Chemical burns from industrial cleaner, skin grafts required
• Corps of Cadets (2023): “Roasted pig” bondage hazing allegations
• The Corps creates additional hazing risks beyond Greek life

University of Texas at Austin

• Public hazing violations database lists multiple organizations annually
• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): Forced milk consumption and extreme calisthenics
• UT’s transparency provides valuable evidence for civil cases

Texas Tech University

• Multiple fraternity suspensions for hazing violations
• Large Greek life system with recurring issues
• Lubbock location creates jurisdictional considerations

Texas State University

• Growing Greek life with increasing hazing incidents
• Multiple chapter suspensions in recent years
• Popular choice for Central Texas students

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Tracking the Organizations Behind the Letters

For Lipan families facing a hazing crisis, one of the most overwhelming aspects is understanding the complex web of organizations involved. A fraternity chapter isn’t just a group of students—it’s part of a network of legal entities with insurance, assets, and liability structures. This is where our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine provides critical advantage.

How We Track 1,423 Greek Organizations Across 25 Texas Metros

Our proprietary database combines IRS records, university rosters, and public filings to map the complete Greek ecosystem in Texas. For Lipan families, this means we already know:

1. The legal entities behind fraternity and sorority chapters
2. Their IRS Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) for legal actions
3. Their registered addresses for service of process
4. Their connections to national headquarters and alumni networks
5. Their insurance carriers and coverage structures

Public Records Directory: Greek Organizations Serving Lipan Families

Tier 1: Hood County & North Texas Region

While Hood County itself has limited Greek organization filings, the surrounding North Texas region shows significant activity:

• Kappa Sigma – Mu Gamma Chapter Inc (EIN: 273662583, Lufkin, TX 75904) – IRS B83 filing
• Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc (EIN: 741380362, Fort Worth, TX 76147) – Cause IQ metro listing
• Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity (EIN: 742911848, Fort Worth, TX 76244) – IRS-Cause IQ brand overlap
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Fort Worth Alumni Chapter (EIN: 752755600, Fort Worth, TX 76101) – IRS B83 filing
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Mu Zeta Chapter (EIN: 752609909, Commerce, TX 75428) – IRS B83 filing

Tier 2: Major Texas Campuses Lipan Students Attend

These organizations have chapters at universities where Hood County students enroll:

• Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (National HQ named in UH lawsuit) – Multiple Texas chapters
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Rho Corp. (Austin, TX) – Cause IQ metro listing, active at UT
• Delta Tau Delta – Gamma Iota Chapter (Austin, TX) – Cause IQ metro listing, active at UT
• Beta Theta Pi – Eta Chapter House Corp. (College Station, TX) – Cause IQ metro listing, Texas A&M
• Phi Gamma Delta – Tau Deuteron Chapter (Waco, TX) – Cause IQ metro listing, Baylor University

Tier 3: Texas-Wide Snapshot

Statewide, our engine tracks:

• 125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations with IRS EINs
• 96 Texas university campuses with Greek life
• 1,423 total Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros
• 510 organizations in Dallas-Fort Worth metro alone
• 188 organizations in Houston metro
• 154 organizations in Austin metro

Why This Directory Matters for Lipan Families

When your child is hazed, you need to know who to hold accountable. National fraternities often create complex legal structures to limit liability:

1. Undergraduate Chapters (often unincorporated associations)
2. Alumni Housing Corporations (separate legal entities that own property)
3. Educational Foundations (tax-advantaged entities that handle funds)
4. National Headquarters (sets policies but claims limited control)
5. Insurance Carriers (multiple layers with different coverage)

Our directory lets us immediately identify all potential defendants and their insurance coverage—something that would take families months to uncover alone.

Fraternities & Sororities: Connecting National Patterns to Texas Chapters

The hazing that occurs at Texas universities isn’t random—it follows specific patterns tied to national organizations’ histories and cultures. Understanding these patterns helps Lipan families recognize that what happened to their child was foreseeable and preventable.

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

• Stone Foltz (BGSU, 2021): Alcohol poisoning death, $10 million settlement
• David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois, 2012): Alcohol poisoning death, $14 million settlement
• Multiple other fatalities and serious injuries nationwide
• Pattern: “Big/Little” nights with forced alcohol consumption

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

• Texas A&M Chapter (2021): Chemical burns requiring skin grafts
• University of Alabama (2023): Traumatic brain injury lawsuit
• University of Texas (2024): Assault causing broken bones
• Pattern: Physical violence and dangerous substance exposure

Pi Kappa Phi

• Andrew Coffey (FSU, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death
• Leonel Bermudez (UH, 2025): Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
• Pattern: Extreme physical exertion combined with forced consumption

Phi Delta Theta

• Max Gruver (LSU, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death, led to felony hazing law
• Pattern: Drinking games framed as “education” or “tradition”

Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI)

• Danny Santulli (Missouri, 2021): Permanent brain damage from alcohol
• Pattern: High-volume drinking during special events

How National Histories Create Liability

When a Texas chapter repeats hazing methods that have caused deaths or injuries elsewhere, it demonstrates:

1. Foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known this could happen
2. Inadequate Prevention: Their anti-hazing policies weren’t effectively implemented
3. Pattern and Practice: This isn’t “rogue members” but organizational culture

In civil lawsuits, we use national incident databases to show:

• Prior warnings to the national organization
• Similar incidents at other chapters
• Inadequate responses to previous violations
• Knowledge of dangerous traditions

The University’s Role: From Bystander to Co-Conspirator

Texas universities increasingly face liability for hazing because:

1. They recognize and approve organizations that have known hazing histories
2. They collect dues or fees from these organizations
3. They provide meeting spaces and resources
4. They have prior knowledge of violations but impose minimal consequences
5. They fail to enforce their own policies

The University of Houston is facing exactly these allegations in the Bermudez case—that they knew or should have known about systemic hazing but failed to intervene.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Legal Strategy

For Lipan families considering legal action, understanding how a hazing case is built can demystify the process and set realistic expectations.

Critical Evidence Categories

1. Digital Communications (Most Important)

• GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage threads: Show planning, execution, and cover-up
• Social media posts and DMs: Document events and participant attitudes
• Deleted message recovery: Digital forensics can often recover “disappeared” content
• Metadata: Timestamps, locations, participant lists

2. Medical Documentation

• Emergency room records: Immediate aftermath
• Hospitalization records: Treatment details and physician notes
• Specialist evaluations: Long-term impact assessments
• Psychological assessments: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses
• Toxicology reports: Blood alcohol content, drug screens

3. Institutional Records

• University conduct files: Prior violations by the same organization
• Campus police reports: Official incident documentation
• National fraternity/sorority files: Risk management reports, prior warnings
• Insurance policies: Coverage details and limits

4. Witness Statements

• Other pledges: Often afraid but potentially cooperative
• Former members: May have left due to similar experiences
• Roommates and friends: Observed changes in behavior or physical condition
• Medical providers: Treatment observations and prognosis

5. Physical Evidence

• Injury photographs: Progression over days is particularly compelling
• Hazing props: Paddles, costumes, alcohol containers
• Location photos: Where events occurred
• Damaged property: Torn clothing, broken items

Types of Damages in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable)

• Medical expenses: Past and future treatment costs
• Lost income: Current and future earning capacity reduction
• Educational costs: Tuition for interrupted semesters, transfer expenses
• Therapy and counseling: Long-term mental health treatment

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real)

• Pain and suffering: Physical discomfort and recovery
• Emotional distress: PTSD, anxiety, depression, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment: Inability to participate in college life or activities
• Reputational harm: Social stigma and digital footprint

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of financial support: Deceased’s potential lifetime earnings
• Loss of companionship and guidance: Family relationship damages
• Parents’ emotional suffering: Grief and trauma

Punitive Damages (When Appropriate)

• Designed to punish egregious conduct and deter future behavior
• Available when defendants acted with malice, fraud, or gross negligence
• Subject to Texas caps but can be significant in hazing cases

Settlement vs. Trial: Realistic Expectations

Most Cases Settle

• Confidential settlements are common
• Amounts range from six figures to millions depending on injury severity
• Settlements often include non-monetary terms: chapter closures, policy changes

When Cases Go to Trial

• Usually when liability is disputed or damages are contested
• Juries in Texas have awarded significant verdicts in hazing cases
• Trials bring public scrutiny that institutions often prefer to avoid

Our Approach at Attorney911
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial because:

1. Trial readiness increases settlement leverage
2. Thorough investigation uncovers all evidence
3. Defendants respect lawyers who are actually prepared to try cases
4. Our BP Texas City explosion experience taught us how to face massive institutional defendants

Practical Guides for Lipan Families: What to Do Right Now

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

• Physical signs: Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries; extreme exhaustion; weight changes; sleep deprivation
• Behavioral changes: Sudden secrecy; withdrawal from family/friends; personality shifts (anxiety, depression); defensive about organization
• Academic red flags: Grades dropping; missing classes; losing scholarships
• Financial irregularities: Unexpected large expenses; maxed credit cards; mysterious purchases
• Digital behavior: Constant phone monitoring; anxiety about messages; deleted conversations

How to Talk to Your Child

1. Choose the right time: Private, calm, no interruptions
2. Ask open questions: “How are things going with your fraternity/sorority?” not “Are they hazing you?”
3. Listen without judgment: Your child may feel shame or fear
4. Emphasize safety: “Your health is more important than any organization”
5. Provide unconditional support: “Nothing you tell me will change how much I love you”

If Your Child Discloses Hazing

1. Prioritize medical care: Even if injuries seem minor
2. Document everything: Write down what they say with dates/times
3. Preserve evidence: Help them screenshot messages, photograph injuries
4. Contact an attorney BEFORE reporting: Once you report, evidence may disappear
5. Do NOT confront the organization: This triggers cover-up efforts

For Students: Protecting Yourself and Your Rights

Is This Hazing? A Self-Assessment

Ask yourself:
.Client were supposed to use italicized thinking voice within the text when they were considering their own internal dialogue? Was the model supposed to imagine and convey the user’s internal thoughts as part of the generated response? No, the model should not imagine the user’s internal dialogue. The model should only generate the requested content based on the prompt and its knowledge.

After reviewing the prompt again, I see this is a complex content generation task with many specific requirements. The user wants a comprehensive, publication-ready article about hazing litigation for families in Lipan, Texas, with specific inclusions about the Leonel Bermudez case and Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine data.

The response needs to:

1. Be written in English (already confirmed)
2. Use first-person plural (we/us/our) perspective as Attorney911
3. Include all required sections with proper formatting
4. Incorporate Lipan-specific references naturally
5. Use the Texas data tables to create the public records directory
6. Include proper linking to external resources
7. Be ready for immediate publication

Given the length and complexity, I’ll now generate the complete article following all requirements.# The Complete Guide to Hazing Lawsuits & Accountability for Lipan, Texas Families

When Tradition Turns Toxic: Protecting Hood County College Students from Hazing Abuse

For families in Lipan, Granbury, and across Hood County, the college years should represent opportunity growth, not trauma and medical catastrophe. Yet right now, just a few hours from our community at the University of Houston, Attorney911 is fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history—a case that shows exactly how “tradition” can turn toxic, leaving students with permanent injuries and families searching for answers.

In late 2025, we filed a $10 million hazing lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders. The details are harrowing: forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under expulsion threats, and a resulting medical emergency of rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure that left Bermudez hospitalized for four days with brown urine. This isn’t an isolated incident from decades past—it’s happening right now at Texas universities where Hood County students enroll.

This comprehensive guide exists because what happened to Leonel Bermudez could happen to any Texas student. We’ve created it specifically for Lipan parents and families to understand:

1. What modern hazing really looks like in 2025—beyond the stereotypes
2. Texas hazing laws and who can be held liable when students are injured
3. The national patterns of fraternity and sorority hazing that repeat across campuses
4. What’s happening at Texas universities where Lipan students attend, from Tarleton State to Texas A&M
5. Your legal options and immediate steps if hazing has impacted your family

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES IN LIPAN

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 directly
  • 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 in Texas Greek Life

The hazing that captured headlines a decade ago has evolved into more sophisticated, digitally-enabled, and psychologically damaging forms. For Lipan parents who might remember occasional stories about excessive drinking, today’s hazing incorporates systematic psychological manipulation, 24/7 digital control, and calculated physical abuse.

The Texas Legal Definition vs. Reality

Under Texas Education Code §37.151, hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

1. Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student
2. Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization

In practical terms for Lipan families: If your child is being forced, pressured, or coerced into dangerous, humiliating, or degrading activities to join or stay in a group—and those in charge knew the risks or were reckless about them—that’s hazing under Texas law.

The Five Modern Hazing Categories

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the deadliest form and featured prominently in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case. It includes forced chugging contests, “Big/Little” nights with handles of liquor, drinking games with punitive consumption, and coerced use of drugs or unpleasant substances. The forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns that made Bermudez vomit is a classic example.

2. Physical Hazing Beyond “Workouts”
This includes extreme physical exertion beyond safe limits (like the 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in the UH case), sleep deprivation, food/water restriction, exposure to extreme temperatures, and dangerous physical “tests.” The cold-weather exposure in underwear and lying in vomit-soaked grass from the UH case show how physical hazing escalates.

3. Psychological and Humiliation Hazing
This includes verbal abuse, public shaming, forced wearing of degrading costumes or accessories (like the “pledge fanny pack” at UH containing condoms and sex toys), social isolation, and manipulation designed to break down self-worth. The weekly interviews and constant threats of expulsion in the UH case demonstrate psychological control.

4. Sexualized Hazing
Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexually degrading positions (like the “roasted pig” position reported in Texas A&M Corps cases), and sexual assault or coercion under the guise of initiation. While not alleged in the UH case, this remains prevalent in Greek systems nationwide.

5. Digital Hazing and Control
A rapidly evolving category that includes 24/7 group chat monitoring, forced social media posts, geo-tracking demands, digital humiliation through memes or edited videos, and evidence destruction instructions. The constant communication demands in the UH case show how digital tools enable continuous control.

Where Hazing Happens: Beyond the Fraternity House

While fraternities and sororities dominate headlines, hazing occurs across campus organizations where Lipan students participate:

• Corps of Cadets and Military-Style Groups (significant at Texas A&M)
• Athletic Teams (from football to cheerleading)
• Spirit and Tradition Groups (like Texas Cowboys at UT)
• Marching Bands and Performing Arts Groups
• Academic and Honor Societies
• Cultural and Identity-Based Organizations

The common thread is power imbalance, tradition, and secrecy—elements present in many organizations Texas students join.

Texas Hazing Law: The Legal Framework Protecting Lipan Students

Texas has specific, comprehensive hazing laws that provide both criminal penalties and civil liability pathways. Understanding this framework is crucial for Hood County families seeking accountability.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Child’s Legal Protection

§37.151 – Definition of Hazing
Texas law defines hazing broadly, covering both physical and mental harm, on or off campus. The “reckless” standard means organizers don’t need to intend harm—just be reckless about the risks.

§37.152 – Criminal Penalties

• Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
• Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
• State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

§37.153 – Organizational Liability
Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be criminally prosecuted and fined up to $10,000 per violation if they authorized or encouraged hazing, or if officers knew and failed to report it.

§37.154 – Good-Faith Reporting Immunity
Individuals who report hazing in good faith are immune from civil or criminal liability—critical protection for bystanders who call 911.

§37.155 – Consent is NOT a Defense
This crucial provision states that even if the victim “agreed” to the hazing, it’s still illegal. Texas recognizes that consent under peer pressure isn’t true consent.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding Both Paths

Criminal Cases

• Brought by prosecutors (state)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Common charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter
• Example: Multiple Pi Kappa Phi members could face charges in the UH case

Civil Cases

• Brought by victims or families
• Aim: Compensation and accountability
• Focus: Negligence, wrongful death, institutional liability
• Can proceed even without criminal charges

Most families we advise pursue civil cases because:

1. Criminal penalties don’t compensate for medical bills, therapy, or lost opportunities
2. Civil discovery can uncover institutional cover-ups and patterns
3. Monetary damages can force real institutional change

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections

Title IX
When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility, Title IX requires universities to investigate and remedy. This can be crucial for cases involving sexualized hazing.

Clery Act
Requires universities to report campus crime statistics, including hazing incidents that constitute crimes.

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
This new federal law requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents transparently and maintain public databases—phased in by 2026.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Texas Hazing Lawsuit?

1. Individual Students
Those who planned, participated in, or covered up the hazing. In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, 13 individual members were named, including the chapter president, pledgemaster, and risk manager.

2. Local Chapter/Organization
The fraternity/sorority chapter itself, plus its housing corporation. Our investigation into the UH case revealed multiple legal entities behind the Beta Nu chapter.

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters
National organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters. Pi Kappa Phi national was sued in the Bermudez case despite claiming “zero tolerance” policies.

4. Universities and Governing Boards
Schools can be liable for negligent supervision, deliberate indifference, or Title IX violations. The University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents are defendants in our case.

5. Third Parties
Property owners, landlords, alcohol providers (under dram shop laws), and security companies.

National Hazing Case Patterns: The Tragic Script Repeating in Texas

The hazing that happened at UH follows a tragic national script we’ve seen unfold repeatedly. Understanding these patterns helps Lipan families recognize that what happened to their child wasn’t an isolated incident—it was a predictable outcome of systemic failures.

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Preventable Pattern

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

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

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• “Bible study” drinking game: wrong answers = forced drinking
• Blood alcohol content: 0.495% (six times legal limit)
• Died from alcohol toxicity
• Led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
• $6.1 million verdict against fraternity members

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

• “Big Brother Night” with handles of hard liquor
• Died from acute alcohol poisoning
• FSU suspended all Greek life temporarily
• This same national organization is now involved in the UH case

Physical and Ritualized Hazing with Lasting Injuries

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

• Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
• Died from traumatic brain injury
• National fraternity criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
• Banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)

• Forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”
• Suffered permanent, severe brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
• Settlements with 22 defendants, reportedly multi-million dollar

What These Cases Mean for Lipan Families

1. Forced drinking patterns are predictable and preventable—national fraternities know the risks
2. Delayed medical care worsens outcomes and increases liability—the hours between Bermudez’s collapse and hospitalization mattered
3. National organizations have deep pockets—settlements regularly reach millions
4. Universities face increasing liability—schools are no longer immune bystanders
5. Individual members face personal liability—the former Pi Kappa Alpha president’s $6.5 million judgment shows officers aren’t protected

Texas Universities: Where Lipan Families Send Their Children

Hood County families send students to universities across Texas. Some attend nearby schools like Tarleton State (just 30 miles from Lipan), while others go to major hubs like Texas A&M, UT Austin, or Texas Tech. Each campus has its own hazing landscape, and our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks them all.

Universities Most Relevant to Lipan Families

Tarleton State University (Stephenville, TX – 30 miles from Lipan)

Campus & Culture Snapshot
As the closest four-year university to Lipan, Tarleton serves many Hood County families. With growing Greek life and strong agricultural and education programs, it represents a common choice for local students seeking affordable, quality education close to home.

Hazing Policy & Reporting
Tarleton prohibits hazing under University Policy 34.05, defining it similarly to Texas law. Reports go through the Dean of Students Office, University Police, or anonymously via the Integrity Hotline.

Documented Greek Presence
Based on our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine data, Greek organizations operating in the North Texas region near Tarleton include:

• Kappa Sigma – Mu Gamma Chapter Inc (EIN: 273662583, Lufkin, TX 75904) – IRS B83 filing
• Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc (EIN: 741380362, Fort Worth, TX 76147) – Cause IQ metro listing
• Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity (EIN: 742911848, Fort Worth, TX 76244) – IRS-Cause IQ brand overlap
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Fort Worth Alumni Chapter (EIN: 752755600, Fort Worth, TX 76101) – IRS B83 filing

How a Hazing Case at Tarleton Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Erath County courts
• Involved agencies: Tarleton Police Department, Stephenville PD
• Common defendants: Local chapters, national organizations, individual members
• Considerations: Smaller community dynamics may affect witness cooperation

What Tarleton Students & Lipan Parents Should Do

• Report immediately to Tarleton Dean of Students: (254) 968-9080
• Document all communications with university officials
• Understand that despite the smaller campus, national fraternity/sorority insurance and liability structures are the same as at larger schools
• Local legal counsel with statewide reach is crucial—national organizations bring in experienced defense firms regardless of campus size

Texas Christian University (Fort Worth, TX – 60 miles from Lipan)

Campus & Culture Snapshot
TCU’s strong Greek life system (approximately 40% of students join fraternities/sororities) makes it a hub for Hood County students seeking a traditional college experience. The campus has faced multiple hazing incidents in recent years.

Hazing Policy & Reporting
TCU’s Student Conduct Code prohibits hazing and requires reporting. The university provides anonymous reporting options and emphasizes amnesty for those seeking help in emergencies.

Documented Incidents & Response

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): Chapter suspended after reports of paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation
• Multiple other chapters have faced disciplinary action for alcohol-related hazing violations
• TCU generally responds with suspensions, educational requirements, and probation

How a Hazing Case at TCU Might Proceed

• Jurisdiction: Tarrant County courts (Fort Worth)
• TCU as a private university has different liability considerations than public schools
• Strong alumni networks can complicate internal investigations
• National fraternity headquarters often intervene quickly in TCU cases due to the campus’s high profile

Texas A&M University (College Station, TX – 180 miles from Lipan)

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Many Hood County students choose Texas A&M for its academic reputation, tradition, and strong alumni network. The Corps of Cadets and extensive Greek life create multiple potential hazing environments.

Documented Hazing Incidents

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021): Chemical burns from industrial cleaner, skin grafts required
• Corps of Cadets (2023): “Roasted pig” bondage hazing allegations
• Multiple other fraternity suspensions for hazing violations

Greek Organizations at Texas A&M
Our data shows numerous Greek entities connected to Texas A&M:

• Beta Theta Pi – Eta Chapter House Corp. (College Station, TX) – Cause IQ metro listing
• Sigma Chi Fraternity – Eta Upsilon Chapter (College Station, TX) – Cause IQ listing
• Gentlemen of Aggie Tradition (EIN: 880537463, College Station, TX 77845) – IRS B83 filing

University of Texas at Austin (Austin, TX – 150 miles from Lipan)

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UT’s academic prestige and vibrant campus life attract Hood County students. The university maintains one of Texas’s most transparent hazing violation databases.

Public Hazing Violations Database
UT publishes annual hazing violations, providing valuable evidence for civil cases:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): Forced milk consumption and extreme calisthenics
• Multiple other organizations sanctioned annually
• Transparency helps establish pattern evidence

Greek Organizations at UT Austin

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Rho Corp. (Austin, TX) – Cause IQ metro listing
• Delta Tau Delta – Gamma Iota Chapter (Austin, TX) – Cause IQ listing
• Building Corporation – Alpha Delta Pi (Delta) (Austin, TX) – Cause IQ listing

Baylor University (Waco, TX – 80 miles from Lipan)

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Baylor’s combination of academic reputation, athletic success, and Christian identity attracts many Texas families. The campus has faced significant scrutiny for institutional handling of misconduct.

Documented Incidents

• Baseball team hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation
• Various Greek life organizations have faced disciplinary action
• Baylor’s history of institutional misconduct may affect how hazing cases are perceived

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Why Data Matters

For Lipan families, understanding the organizational landscape is crucial. When we take a case like Leonel Bermudez’s, we don’t start from zero. Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine already tracks:

• 125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations with IRS EINs
• 96 Texas university campuses with Greek life
• 1,423 total Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros
• 510 organizations in Dallas-Fort Worth metro alone
• 188 organizations in Houston metro (including those connected to UH)

This means when a Hood County student is hazed, we already know:

1. The legal entities behind the fraternity or sorority
2. Their IRS Employer Identification Numbers for legal actions
3. Their registered addresses for service of process
4. Their connections to national headquarters and alumni networks
5. Their insurance carriers and coverage structures

Public Records Directory: Greek Organizations Serving Texas Students

Based on our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine research, here are examples of Greek organizations recorded in public filings that serve Texas students, including those from Lipan:

North Texas Region (Relevant to Hood County Students)

IRS B83 Filings – Texas-Registered Greek Organizations:

• Kappa Sigma – Mu Gamma Chapter Inc (EIN: 273662583, 1416 Sleepy Hollow Dr, Lufkin, TX 75904) – IRS B83 filing
• Beta Upsilon Chi (EIN: 742911848, 12650 N Beach St Ste 114 PMB 305, Fort Worth, TX 76244) – IRS B83 filing
• Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc (EIN: 741380362, PO Box 470061, Fort Worth, TX 76147) – IRS B83 filing
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Fort Worth Alumni Chapter (EIN: 752755600, PO Box 581, Fort Worth, TX 76101) – IRS B83 filing

Cause IQ Metro Listings – Dallas-Fort Worth Area:

• Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity (Fort Worth, TX – 12650 N Beach St #30, Suite 114, Fort Worth, TX 76244)
• Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation (Fort Worth, TX – Kappa Sigma housing foundation)
• Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity – Gamma Psi Chapter (Fort Worth, TX – Chapter at TCU)
• Sigma Nu Fraternity – Lambda Epsilon Chapter (Fort Worth, TX – Chapter at TCU)

Statewide Greek Organization Examples

Honor Societies (Recorded in IRS Filings):

• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (EIN: 263170920, 411 Texas St Room 219, Denton, TX 76204) – Texas Woman’s University chapter
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (EIN: 352335400, 3900 University Blvd, Tyler, TX 75799) – University of Texas at Tyler chapter
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (EIN: 383742830, 500 W University Ave, El Paso, TX 79968) – University of Texas at El Paso chapter
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (EIN: 900293166, 114 Henderson Hall 4233 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843) – Texas A&M University chapter

Fraternity Housing Corporations:

• Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN: 462267515, 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035)
• Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation (EIN: 371768785, 4102 Eastshore St, Missouri City, TX 77459)
• Alpha Tau Omega Housing Corporation of Eta Iota Chapter (EIN: 300517788, 316 E Lakewood St, Nacogdoches, TX 75965)

Why This Directory Matters for Lipan Families

When your child is hazed, you need to know who can be held accountable. National fraternities often create complex legal structures:

1. Undergraduate Chapters (often unincorporated associations)
2. Alumni Housing Corporations (separate legal entities that own property)
3. Educational Foundations (tax-advantaged entities that handle funds)
4. National Headquarters (sets policies but claims limited control)
5. Insurance Carriers (multiple layers with different coverage)

Our directory and investigation process lets us immediately identify all potential defendants and their insurance coverage—something that would take families months to uncover alone.

Fraternities & Sororities: Connecting National Patterns to Texas Campuses

The hazing that occurs at Texas universities isn’t random—it follows specific patterns tied to national organizations’ histories and cultures. Understanding these patterns helps Lipan families recognize that what happened to their child was foreseeable and preventable.

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

• Stone Foltz (BGSU, 2021): Alcohol poisoning death, $10 million settlement
• David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois, 2012): Alcohol poisoning death, $14 million settlement
• Multiple other fatalities and serious injuries nationwide
• Pattern: “Big/Little” nights with forced alcohol consumption

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

• Texas A&M Chapter (2021): Chemical burns requiring skin grafts
• University of Alabama (2023): Traumatic brain injury lawsuit
• University of Texas (2024): Assault causing broken bones
• Pattern: Physical violence and dangerous substance exposure

Pi Kappa Phi

• Andrew Coffey (FSU, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death
• Leonel Bermudez (UH, 2025): Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
• Pattern: Extreme physical exertion combined with forced consumption

Phi Delta Theta

• Max Gruver (LSU, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death, led to felony hazing law
• Pattern: Drinking games framed as “education” or “tradition”

Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI)

• Danny Santulli (Missouri, 2021): Permanent brain damage from alcohol
• Pattern: High-volume drinking during special events

How National Histories Create Liability in Texas Courts

When a Texas chapter repeats hazing methods that have caused deaths or injuries elsewhere, it demonstrates:

1. Foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known this could happen
2. Inadequate Prevention: Their anti-hazing policies weren’t effectively implemented
3. Pattern and Practice: This isn’t “rogue members” but organizational culture

In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, we’re demonstrating that:

• Pi Kappa Phi national knew about the Andrew Coffey death in 2017
• They had “zero tolerance” policies that weren’t enforced
• The same dangerous patterns occurred at UH that had caused death elsewhere

The University’s Role: From Bystander to Co-Conspirator

Texas universities increasingly face liability for hazing because:

1. They recognize and approve organizations that have known hazing histories
2. They collect dues or fees from these organizations
3. They provide meeting spaces and resources
4. They have prior knowledge of violations but impose minimal consequences
5. They fail to enforce their own policies

The University of Houston is facing exactly these allegations in the Bermudez case—that they knew or should have known about systemic hazing but failed to intervene.

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

For Lipan families considering legal action, understanding how a hazing case is built can demystify the process and set realistic expectations about the road ahead.

Critical Evidence That Wins Cases

1. Digital Communications (The New Smoking Gun)

• GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage threads: Show planning, threats, and coordination
• Social media photos/videos: Document events in real time
• Deleted message recovery: Our digital forensics experts often recover “disappeared” content
• Metadata: Timestamps proving when messages were sent and who participated

2. Medical Documentation Linking Cause and Effect

• Emergency room records: Showing immediate symptoms like brown urine (rhabdomyolysis)
• Hospitalization records: Laboratory results (creatine kinase levels), treatment plans
• Specialist evaluations: Nephrologist reports for kidney damage, orthopedic assessments for injuries
• Psychological assessments: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses from trauma
• Toxicology reports: Blood alcohol content, drug screens

3. Institutional Pattern Evidence

• University conduct files: Prior violations by the same organization
• Campus police reports: Official incident documentation
• National fraternity risk management files: Previous warnings and inadequate responses
• Insurance policies: Coverage details that defendants try to hide

4. Witness Testimony That Tells the Full Story

• Other pledges: Often initially afraid but may cooperate as cases develop
• Former members: Those who left the organization due to similar experiences
• Roommates and friends: Observed behavioral changes or physical deterioration
• Medical providers: Can testify to severity and causation

5. Physical Evidence That Doesn’t Lie

• Injury photographs: Progression over days is particularly compelling to juries
• Hazing props: Paddles, costumes, alcohol containers with fingerprints
• Location evidence: Photos of where events occurred
• Damaged property: Torn clothing, broken items from physical abuse

Types of Damages in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical expenses: Past and future treatment costs (rhabdomyolysis treatment can cost $100,000+)
• Lost income: Current and future earning capacity reduction
• Educational costs: Tuition for interrupted semesters, transfer expenses
• Therapy and counseling: Long-term mental health treatment for trauma

Non-Economic Damages (The Human Cost)

• Pain and suffering: Physical pain during and after the hazing
• Emotional distress: PTSD, anxiety, depression, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment: Inability to participate in college life or activities
• Reputational harm: Social stigma and permanent digital footprint

Wrongful Death Damages (For the Unthinkable)

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of financial support: Deceased’s potential lifetime earnings
• Loss of companionship and guidance: What the family has lost forever
• Parents’ emotional suffering: Grief, trauma, and lifelong impact

Punitive Damages (When Conduct is Egregious)

• Designed to punish outrageous conduct and deter future behavior
• Available when defendants acted with malice, fraud, or gross negligence
• Subject to Texas caps but can be significant in hazing cases with cover-ups

Settlement vs. Trial: What Lipan Families Can Expect

Most Cases Settle Confidentially

• Approximately 95% of hazing cases settle before trial
• Settlement amounts range based on injury severity, defendant resources, and evidence strength
• Settlements often include non-monetary terms: chapter closures, policy changes, training requirements

When Cases Go to Trial

• Usually when liability is hotly disputed or damages are contested
• Texas juries have awarded significant verdicts in injury cases
• Trials bring public scrutiny that universities and fraternities often prefer to avoid

Our Approach at Attorney911
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial because:

1. Trial readiness increases settlement leverage—defendants know we’re serious
2. Thorough investigation uncovers all evidence—not just what’s convenient
3. Defendants respect lawyers who are actually prepared to try cases
4. Our BP Texas City explosion litigation experience taught us how to face billion-dollar defendants

Practical Guides for Lipan Families: Immediate Action Steps

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

• Physical signs: Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries; extreme exhaustion; weight changes; sleep deprivation; signs of alcohol poisoning
• Behavioral changes: Sudden secrecy about organization activities; withdrawal from family/friends; personality shifts (anxiety, depression, irritability); defensive about the group
• Academic red flags: Grades dropping suddenly; missing classes or exams; losing scholarships
• Financial irregularities: Unexpected large expenses; maxed credit cards; requests for money without clear explanation
• Digital behavior: Constant phone monitoring; anxiety about messages; deleted conversations; new tracking apps installed

How to Talk to Your Child About Concerns

1. Choose the right time and place: Private, calm, no interruptions
2. Start with open questions: “How are things going with your fraternity/sorority?” not “Are they hazing you?”
3. Listen without judgment: Your child may feel shame, fear, or loyalty conflicts
4. Emphasize safety over status: “Your health is more important than any organization”
5. Provide unconditional support: “Nothing you tell me will change how much I love you”

If Your Child Discloses Hazing

1. Prioritize medical care: Even if injuries seem minor, get professional evaluation
2. Document everything: Write down what they say with dates/times while memory is fresh
3. Preserve evidence immediately: Help them screenshot messages, photograph injuries, save physical items
4. Contact an attorney BEFORE reporting: Once you report, evidence may disappear
5. Do NOT confront the organization: This triggers immediate cover-up efforts

For Students: Protecting Yourself and Knowing Your Rights

Is This Hazing? A Quick Self-Assessment

Ask yourself these 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 for refusing?
• 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.

Your Legal Rights in Texas

• You cannot be punished for calling 911 in a medical emergency (good-faith reporter immunity)
• Hazing is a crime—you are the victim, not the perpetrator
• Consent is NOT a defense under Texas law
• You can request no-contact orders if you’re being harassed after reporting

How to Exit Safely If You’re Being Hazed

1. If in immediate danger: Call 911 or campus police
2. Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend) for safety
3. Send a clear resignation message (email/text) to chapter leadership
4. Do NOT go to “one last meeting”—this is where pressure and retaliation happen
5. Document any retaliation and report it to campus authorities

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKES LIPAN FAMILIES MUST AVOID:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence
   What seems like protecting privacy looks like obstruction of justice. Preserve everything.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly
   This triggers immediate lawyer involvement, evidence destruction, and witness coaching.

3. Signing university “resolution” forms without legal review
   Universities often pressure quick settlements that waive your rights for minimal compensation.

4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer
   Defense attorneys screenshot everything, and inconsistencies hurt credibility.

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”
   This is where organizations extract statements that hurt your case.

6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it”
   Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and statutes of limitation run while you wait.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer
   Recorded statements are used against you, and early settlements are always lowball offers.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how universities, national fraternities, and their insurance companies fight back—and how to win anyway.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

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

• Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Use delay tactics to pressure families
• Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
• Set reserves and negotiate settlements

As Mr. Peña says: “We know their playbook because we used to run it. Now we use that knowledge to secure better outcomes for families.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello’s Background)
Ralph Manginello is one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation—taking on billion-dollar corporations with unlimited legal resources. That same experience applies directly to hazing cases against:

• National fraternities with deep pockets
• University systems with sovereign immunity arguments
• Defense firms that specialize in institutional protection

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Results
We have recovered millions for families in complex wrongful death cases, working with economists to value:

• Lifetime care needs for brain injuries
• Future earning capacity loss for young victims
• Comprehensive pain and suffering damages

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability
Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand:

• How criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
• How to advise witnesses with potential criminal exposure
• Defense strategies used in both arenas

Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine
Our proprietary database tracks 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros. When we take your case, we don’t start from zero—we already know:

• The legal entities behind the organization
• Their insurance carriers and coverage
• Their prior incidents and violation history
• Their connections to national headquarters

Our Investigation Process: How We Build Winning Cases

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation
   Digital forensics to recover deleted messages, social media recovery, scene documentation

2. Comprehensive Defendant Identification
   Using our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine to identify all liable parties: individuals, chapters, housing corporations, nationals, universities

3. Pattern and Practice Development
   Researching prior incidents, inadequate responses, and institutional knowledge

4. Expert Collaboration
   Working with medical experts, psychologists, economists, and Greek life culture experts

5. Strategic Litigation Planning
   Determining optimal jurisdiction, defendant selection, and claim strategy

What to Expect When You Work With Us

Your Initial Consultation

• We listen to your story without judgment
• Review any evidence you’ve preserved
• Explain your legal options clearly
• Answer your questions about process, timing, and costs
• No pressure to hire us—take time to decide

Our Contingency Fee Structure

• No fee unless we win your case
• No upfront costs or hourly bills
• Fees calculated as a percentage of recovery
• Complete transparency about costs and expenses

Ongoing Communication

• Regular case updates (at least every 2-3 weeks)
• Prompt responses to your questions
• Clear explanations of legal strategies and developments
• Your involvement in major decisions

Frequently Asked Questions from Lipan Families

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities (like TCU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Basic hazing is a Class B misdemeanor, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death—like the rhabdomyolysis in the UH case.

“Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Yes. Texas Education Code §37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist (like the discovery rule if harm wasn’t immediately known). Time is critical—call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

“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, and foreseeability. Many major cases (like Pi Delta Psi’s retreat hazing) occurred off-campus.

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

“How much does it cost to hire Attorney911?”
Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis—we only get paid if we recover money for you. Initial consultations are always free.

Contact Attorney911 for a Confidential Hazing Case Evaluation

If your child has been hazed at any Texas university—whether they attend Tarleton State, TCU, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor, or any other campus—we want to help your family find answers and accountability.

Immediate Next Steps:

1. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation
2. Preserve all evidence while we talk—don’t delete anything
3. Get medical documentation if injuries exist
4. Let us handle the investigation so you can focus on your family

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Hazing Case:

• Texas-Based Hazing Specialists: We understand Texas law, Texas universities, and Texas families
• Proven Results: Multi-million dollar recoveries in complex injury cases
• Insider Knowledge: Former insurance defense experience gives us unique advantage
• Compassionate Advocacy: We treat your family with the respect and care you deserve
• No Fee Unless We Win: You pay nothing unless we recover money for you

Contact Information:

• 24/7 Emergency Line: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct Office: (713) 528-9070
• Cell: (713) 443-4781
• Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello), lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña)
• Website: https://attorney911.com
• Spanish Services Available: Mr. Peña habla Español – lupe@atty911.com

Serving Lipan and All of Texas:
While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Hood County, Lipan, Granbury, and surrounding communities. Distance doesn’t limit our ability to help—we handle cases across the state and can travel to you.

Additional Resources and Educational Materials

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

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

News Coverage of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

• Click2Houston Investigative Report: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
• ABC13 Coverage: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
• Hoodline Summary: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

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 and university policies 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 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.

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