Hazing at Texas Universities: A Complete Guide for Colorado Families

When Tradition Crosses the Line

You dropped your child off at the University of Houston (UH) last fall, proud and excited for their college journey. They joined a fraternity, eager to make friends and be part of something bigger than themselves. But lately, something feels off. They’re exhausted all the time, their phone buzzes constantly with group messages they won’t show you, and they flinch when you ask about “pledge activities.” Last night, they came home with bruises on their arms and a vague story about “working out too hard.”

This scenario isn’t just a parent’s nightmare—it’s happening right now at Texas universities, including schools where Colorado families send their children. The University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor all have active Greek systems with documented hazing incidents. And just last year, a UH student nearly died from rhabdomyolysis after extreme hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter.

If you’re a parent in Colorado watching your child go through something similar, you’re not alone. This guide will help you understand what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects students, and what legal options families have when tradition crosses the line into abuse.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

Beyond the Stereotypes

When most people think of hazing, they picture fraternity brothers paddling pledges or making them chug beer. While those forms still exist, modern hazing has evolved into something more insidious and dangerous. Today’s hazing combines physical abuse with psychological manipulation, digital coercion, and sophisticated cover-ups designed to avoid detection.

Hazing isn’t limited to fraternities. It happens in sororities, Corps of Cadets programs, athletic teams, marching bands, and even some service organizations. The common denominator is power—older members using their status to control, humiliate, or harm new members under the guise of “tradition” or “team building.”

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Researchers classify hazing into three escalating categories, each with its own dangers:

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (Psychological Control)

These behaviors emphasize power imbalances and set the stage for escalation. Often dismissed as “harmless” or “just tradition,” they create an environment where more serious abuse can thrive.

What it looks like:

• 24/7 digital control: Pledges required to respond instantly to group chats at all hours, with punishment for delayed responses
• Forced servitude: Acting as designated drivers, cleaning rooms, running errands for older members
• Social isolation: Cutting off contact with non-members, requiring permission to socialize
• Deprivation of privileges: Not allowed to speak unless spoken to, sit in certain seats, use certain doors
• “Optional” activities: Framed as voluntary but with implicit threats of social exclusion for non-participation
• Scavenger hunts: Seemingly harmless tasks designed to humiliate (stealing items, performing public stunts)

Real-world example from Texas:
At Texas A&M, a Corps of Cadets member reported being required to complete “tasks” that included stealing items from other units and performing humiliating public acts. When he refused, he was ostracized and told he would “never make it” in the program.

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Emotional and Physical Abuse)

These behaviors cause emotional or physical discomfort and create a hostile, abusive environment.

What it looks like:

• Sleep deprivation: Late-night “meetings,” 3 AM wake-up calls, multi-day events with minimal sleep
• Food/water restriction: Limiting meals, forcing consumption of unpleasant substances (spoiled food, hot sauce, excessive milk)
• Extreme physical activity: “Smokings” or calisthenics far beyond safe limits (hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse)
• Public humiliation: Forced to perform embarrassing acts in public (singing, dancing, wearing degrading costumes)
• Verbal abuse: Yelling, screaming, insults, threats
• Disgusting conditions: Forced to lie in vomit, covered in food or condiments, locked in filthy spaces
• Digital humiliation: Forced to post embarrassing content on social media or participate in online “challenges”

Real-world example from Texas:
At the University of Texas at Austin, Pi Kappa Alpha pledges were allegedly directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics during initiation. The chapter was placed on probation after the incident was reported.

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (Life-Threatening Abuse)

These activities have high potential for physical injury, sexual assault, or death.

What it looks like:

• Forced alcohol consumption: “Lineup” drinking games, Big/Little reveal nights with handles of hard liquor, “Bible study” or trivia games where wrong answers = forced drinking
• Forced drug use: Coercing pledges to consume marijuana, pills, or other substances
• Physical beatings: Punches, kicks, slaps, paddling with wooden implements
• Dangerous “tests”: Blindfolded tackle rituals (“glass ceiling”), forced fights, jumping from heights, swimming while intoxicated
• Sexualized hazing: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault, being forced to watch pornography
• Racist/homophobic hazing: Use of slurs, role-playing stereotypes, forcing minority members to perform degrading acts
• Kidnapping/restraint: Transporting pledges blindfolded, tying them up, binding them in degrading positions
• Extreme environments: Locked in freezing rooms, exposed to extreme heat/cold, denied bathroom access

Real-world example from Texas:
In 2021, two pledges of Sigma Alpha Epsilon at Texas A&M were allegedly covered in substances including an industrial-strength cleaner during initiation, causing severe chemical burns that required emergency skin grafts. The fraternity was suspended, and the pledges filed lawsuits against the chapter.

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

Hazing isn’t limited to fraternity houses. It occurs in:

• Fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural Greek organizations)
• Corps of Cadets programs (Texas A&M Corps, ROTC, military-style groups)
• Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer, spirit squads)
• Marching bands and performance groups (The University of Houston Spirit of Houston, Texas A&M Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band)
• Spirit groups and tradition clubs (Texas Cowboys at UT, Aggie Wranglers at Texas A&M)
• Service organizations and honor societies (some with Greek letters)
• Off-campus locations (Airbnbs, private homes, rural properties used for “retreats”)

The Psychology of Hazing: Why It Persists

Understanding why hazing continues despite laws and policies helps explain why it’s so hard to stop:

1. Power dynamics: Older members enjoy control over new members, reinforcing their status
2. Groupthink: Members justify hazing as “tradition” or “character-building” to avoid cognitive dissonance
3. Fear of exclusion: Pledges endure abuse to belong, fearing social isolation if they quit
4. Secrecy culture: Organizations pressure members to keep hazing hidden from authorities
5. Normalization: Hazing becomes accepted as “just how things are done” in certain groups
6. Lack of consequences: When hazing goes unpunished, it sends the message that it’s acceptable
7. Escalation effect: What starts as “mild” hazing often escalates as groups compete to outdo each other

Texas Hazing Laws: What Colorado Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code: The Legal Framework

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code (Chapter 37, Subchapter F) that define and prohibit hazing. The law is designed to protect students from dangerous initiation practices, regardless of whether they “consented” to participate.

Key provisions:

• Definition (Section 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:

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

• Criminal penalties (Section 37.152):

  • Class B misdemeanor: Default penalty (up to 180 days in jail, $2,000 fine)
  • Class A misdemeanor: If hazing causes injury requiring medical treatment
  • State jail felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death
  • Additional charges: Hazing often overlaps with other crimes like assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, or sexual assault

• Organizational liability (Section 37.153): Organizations can be criminally prosecuted if:

  • The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
  • An officer or member acting in official capacity knew about hazing and failed to report it

• Reporting immunity (Section 37.154): A person who reports hazing in good faith is immune from civil or criminal liability

• Consent not a defense (Section 37.155): It is not a defense that the person being hazed consented to the activity

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: What’s the Difference?

When hazing occurs, two separate legal processes can unfold:

Criminal cases:

• Brought by the state (prosecutor)
• Goal: Punishment (jail time, fines, probation)
• Standard of proof: Beyond a reasonable doubt (highest standard)
• Potential charges:
  • Hazing offenses
  • Assault or battery
  • Manslaughter (in fatal cases)
  • Furnishing alcohol to minors
  • Sexual assault (if applicable)
  • Obstruction of justice (for cover-ups)

Civil cases:

• Brought by victims or families
• Goal: Compensation and accountability (money damages, injunctions)
• Standard of proof: Preponderance of the evidence (“more likely than not”)
• Potential claims:
  • Negligence and gross negligence
  • Wrongful death
  • Negligent supervision
  • Premises liability
  • Intentional infliction of emotional distress
  • Assault and battery

Important note: A criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Many hazing cases settle civilly even when no criminal charges are filed.

Federal Laws That Apply to Hazing

In addition to Texas state law, several federal laws can apply to hazing cases:

1. Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

   • Requires colleges receiving federal aid to:
     • Report hazing incidents more transparently
     • Strengthen hazing education and prevention
     • Maintain public hazing data (phased in by 2026)
   • Creates a federal definition of hazing and requires annual reporting

2. Title IX:

   • Applies when hazing involves:
     • Sexual harassment or assault
     • Gender-based discrimination
     • Hostile environment based on sex
   • Requires universities to respond to reports of sexual misconduct in hazing
   • Can lead to federal investigations and loss of funding if violated

3. Clery Act:

   • Requires colleges to:
     • Report certain crimes (including hazing-related assaults)
     • Maintain and disclose campus crime statistics
     • Issue timely warnings about ongoing threats
   • Provides transparency about campus safety issues

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Texas Hazing Lawsuit?

When hazing occurs, multiple parties can potentially be held legally responsible:

1. Individual students:

   • Those who planned or carried out the hazing
   • Those who supplied alcohol or drugs
   • Those who participated in cover-ups
   • Officers or “pledge educators” who organized events

2. Local chapter/organization:

   • The fraternity, sorority, or club itself (if incorporated)
   • Individual officers can be key defendants

3. National fraternity/sorority:

   • Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
   • Liability depends on what they knew or should have known
   • Prior incidents at other chapters can show pattern of negligence

4. University or governing board:

   • Can be sued for negligence, Title IX violations, or civil rights claims
   • Key questions:
     • Did they know or should they have known about prior incidents?
     • Did they enforce their own policies?
     • Did they show deliberate indifference to known risks?

5. Third parties:

   • Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces
   • Bars or alcohol providers (under Texas dram shop laws)
   • Security companies or event organizers

Real-world example from Texas:
In the recent University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi case, the lawsuit named:

• The University of Houston
• The UH System Board of Regents
• Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
• The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu housing corporation
• 13 individual fraternity leaders (chapter president, pledgemaster, etc.)

This comprehensive approach ensures all potentially responsible parties are held accountable.

National Hazing Cases: What They Teach Texas Families

Major national hazing cases have shaped the legal landscape and set important precedents. Understanding these cases helps Texas families see how the law applies to their own situations.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

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

• What happened: During a bid-acceptance event, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza was forced to consume large amounts of alcohol. He fell multiple times, including down a flight of stairs, and suffered severe head injuries. Fraternity brothers delayed calling 911 for nearly 12 hours.
• Legal actions: Dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members; civil litigation against the fraternity and university. The case led to Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law, which upgraded hazing to a felony when serious injury or death occurs.
• Outcome: Beta Theta Pi chapter permanently banned from Penn State; national fraternity implemented new risk management policies.
• Texas takeaway: Extreme intoxication and delay in medical care are recurring themes in fatal hazing cases. Universities and fraternities can face severe consequences for failing to intervene.

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

• What happened: During a “Big Brother Night” event, pledge Andrew Coffey was given a handle of bourbon and pressured to drink it. He died from alcohol poisoning with a blood alcohol level of 0.447%.
• Legal actions: Multiple fraternity members charged with hazing; FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life and overhauled its policies.
• Outcome: Pi Kappa Phi chapter closed; family settled with fraternity and university.
• Texas takeaway: “Big/Little” events with forced drinking are a known hazard. Florida State’s response shows how quickly universities can act when public pressure mounts.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• What happened: Pledge Max Gruver was forced to participate in a “Bible study” drinking game where he had to drink whenever he answered questions incorrectly. He died from acute alcohol poisoning.
• Legal actions: One fraternity member convicted of negligent homicide; family filed wrongful death lawsuit.
• Outcome: Family settled for $6.1 million; Louisiana enacted the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony.
• Texas takeaway: Drinking games framed as “tradition” or “bonding” can be deadly. Felony hazing laws increase accountability for both individuals and organizations.

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

• What happened: During a “Big/Little” event, pledge Stone Foltz was forced to drink an entire bottle of whiskey. He died from alcohol poisoning.
• Legal actions: Multiple criminal convictions; family filed civil lawsuit.
• Outcome: Bowling Green State University agreed to a nearly $3 million settlement; other settlements with fraternity and individuals reached $10 million total.
• Texas takeaway: Universities can face significant financial consequences alongside fraternities. The “Big/Little” drinking tradition is particularly dangerous and well-documented.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

• What happened: During a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains, pledge Michael Deng was subjected to a violent “glass ceiling” ritual where he was blindfolded, weighted with a backpack, and repeatedly tackled by fraternity members. He suffered fatal head injuries.
• Legal actions: Multiple members convicted; fraternity banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years; national fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter.
• Outcome: First case where a national fraternity was criminally convicted for hazing; family settled civil lawsuit.
• Texas takeaway: Off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous as on-campus events. National organizations can be held criminally liable for chapter actions when they know about dangerous rituals.

Carson Starkey – Sigma Alpha Epsilon, California Polytechnic State University (2008)

• What happened: Pledge Carson Starkey died from alcohol poisoning after being coerced into heavy drinking during a hazing ritual.
• Legal actions: Family settled with SAE for a confidential amount.
• Outcome: Family used settlement funds to establish Aware Awake Alive, a national non-profit educating about hazing risks. SAE later announced elimination of traditional pledge process nationwide.
• Texas takeaway: Even when settlements are confidential, families can use their experience to prevent future deaths. Pattern evidence shows that certain fraternities have repeated issues with alcohol-related hazing.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

• What happened: Former players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the football program over multiple years. Incidents included forced nudity, sexualized acts, and physical abuse.
• Legal actions: Multiple lawsuits against the university and coaching staff; head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired (later settled wrongful termination suit).
• Outcome: University implemented new policies and oversight for athletic programs.
• Texas takeaway: Hazing is not limited to Greek life. Big-money athletic programs can harbor systemic abuse, and universities can be held liable for failing to prevent it.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national cases reveal important patterns that apply to Texas:

1. Forced drinking is the most common and deadly form of hazing. Big/Little events, bid nights, and “traditional” drinking games are particularly high-risk.

2. Cover-ups and delayed medical care dramatically worsen outcomes. Many deaths could have been prevented with prompt medical attention.

3. National organizations often have prior knowledge of dangerous patterns. When a Texas chapter repeats the same script that got another chapter shut down or sued, it shows foreseeability and supports negligence claims.

4. Universities can be held liable for failing to intervene. Prior warnings, policy violations, and deliberate indifference can all support university liability.

5. Multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts are possible. While outcomes depend on specific facts, major hazing cases have resulted in:

   • $14 million (Bogenberger/Pi Kappa Alpha)
   • $12.6 million (Meredith/Kappa Sigma)
   • $10 million (Foltz/Pi Kappa Alpha)
   • $6.1 million (Gruver/Phi Delta Theta)

6. Legislative change often follows tragedy. Many states have upgraded hazing laws after high-profile deaths, creating stronger protections for students.

Texas Focus: Hazing at Major Universities

Texas is home to some of the largest and most active Greek systems in the country. The University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor all have documented hazing incidents. If your child attends one of these schools—or any Texas university—this section will help you understand the specific risks and legal landscape.

University of Houston (UH)

Campus & culture snapshot:
The University of Houston is a large urban campus with a diverse student body of over 47,000 students. Located in Houston’s Third Ward, UH has an active Greek system with 43 fraternities and sororities across four councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and MGC).

UH’s Greek life is particularly significant because:

• Many students are first-generation college students
• The university has a strong commuter population
• Greek organizations play a major role in campus social life

Colorado connection:
Houston is approximately 1,000 miles from Colorado, but many Colorado families send their children to UH for its strong programs in business, engineering, and the arts. The university’s diverse student body and urban location make it an attractive option for Colorado students seeking a different college experience.

Official hazing policy & reporting:
UH prohibits hazing in all forms, whether on-campus or off-campus. The university’s policy states:

“Hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members are or include students at an educational institution.”

How to report hazing at UH:

• UH Center for Student Involvement: (713) 743-5180
• UH Police Department: (713) 743-3333 (for emergencies)
• Anonymous reporting: UH uses the Real Response system for anonymous reports
• Title IX Office: For hazing involving sexual harassment or assault

Documented incidents & responses:

1. Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu (2025) – The Case That Changed Everything

   • What happened: In fall 2025, Leonel Bermudez, a transfer student, joined Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter at UH. During his pledge period, he was subjected to extreme physical and psychological abuse:
     • Required to wear a “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms, a sex toy, and nicotine devices
     • Enforced dress codes and hours-long “study/work” blocks
     • Weekly interviews with chapter officers
     • Overnight and late-night driving duties for older members
     • Extreme physical hazing including:
       • Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races
       • Cold-weather exposure in underwear
       • Lying in vomit-soaked grass
       • Being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”
       • Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by more sprints
       • The November 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats, and reciting the fraternity creed under threat of expulsion
     • Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour
     • Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe skeletal muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure
     • He passed brown urine, could not stand without help, and was hospitalized for four days
   • Medical findings: Lab tests showed critically high creatine kinase (CK) levels, confirming rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury. Doctors warned of ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.
   • Legal actions: Attorney911 filed a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit against:
     • University of Houston
     • UH System Board of Regents
     • Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
     • Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu housing corporation
     • 13 individual fraternity leaders (chapter president, pledgemaster, sorority relations chair, risk manager, and others)
   • Institutional response:
     • November 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters suspended the Beta Nu chapter
     • November 14, 2025: Chapter members voted to surrender their charter; chapter permanently closed
     • UH issued a statement calling the conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary measures up to expulsion
     • UH cooperated with law enforcement investigations
   • Media coverage: The case received extensive coverage from Houston media outlets:
     • Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case
     • ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit
     • Hoodline summary of the $10M UH hazing lawsuit
   • Texas takeaway: This case demonstrates that extreme hazing is happening right now at Texas universities. The rapid closure of the chapter shows how seriously universities and nationals can respond when confronted with irrefutable evidence.

2. Pi Kappa Alpha (2016)

   • What happened: Pledges were allegedly deprived of sufficient food, water, and sleep during a multi-day event. One student suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table or similar surface.
   • Response: The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and university suspension.
   • Takeaway: UH has a history of taking hazing seriously when it’s reported, but the lack of public detail about many cases makes it difficult for families to know the full scope of the problem.

3. Other disciplinary actions:

   • UH’s public records show multiple fraternities and sororities have faced discipline for hazing-related violations, though specific details are often limited
   • Common issues include alcohol misuse, forced physical activities, and policy violations

How a UH hazing case might proceed:

• Jurisdiction: Hazing at UH would typically be investigated by:
  • UH Police Department (for on-campus incidents)
  • Houston Police Department (for off-campus incidents in Houston)
  • Harris County District Attorney’s Office (for criminal prosecution)
• Civil lawsuit venue: Cases would typically be filed in Harris County District Court
• Potential defendants:
  • Individual students involved
  • Local fraternity/sorority chapter
  • National fraternity/sorority
  • University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents
  • Property owners/landlords (if hazing occurred at off-campus housing)

What UH students & parents should do:

1. Report immediately: Use UH’s reporting channels or call UHPD at (713) 743-3333
2. Document everything: Save texts, screenshots, photos of injuries, and write down what happened while memory is fresh
3. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out—some conditions (like rhabdomyolysis) can develop over time
4. Preserve evidence: Don’t let your child delete messages or clean up physical evidence
5. Consult an attorney: Before talking to university officials or insurance companies, get legal advice
6. Check UH’s hazing violation records: While not comprehensive, UH’s public records can show if an organization has prior violations
7. Understand your rights: Texas law protects students from retaliation for reporting hazing

Texas A&M University

Campus & culture snapshot:
Texas A&M is one of the largest universities in the country, with over 74,000 students. Located in College Station, about 100 miles northwest of Houston, A&M has a strong tradition of school spirit and military heritage through its Corps of Cadets program.

A&M’s Greek system is particularly significant because:

• It’s one of the largest in the country, with over 60 fraternities and sororities
• The Corps of Cadets has its own traditions and hazing risks
• The university has a strong emphasis on tradition and “Aggie values”

Colorado connection:
College Station is approximately 900 miles from Colorado, but many Colorado families send their children to Texas A&M for its strong programs in engineering, agriculture, and business. The university’s reputation for tradition and values makes it an attractive option for Colorado students seeking a structured college experience.

Official hazing policy & reporting:
Texas A&M prohibits hazing in all forms and provides multiple reporting channels:

“Hazing is any act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or that destroys or removes public or private property, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization.”

How to report hazing at Texas A&M:

• Student Conduct Office: (979) 847-7272
• Texas A&M Police Department: (979) 845-2345 (for emergencies)
• Corps of Cadets: (979) 845-1251
• Anonymous reporting: Texas A&M uses the EthicsPoint system for anonymous reports
• Title IX Office: For hazing involving sexual harassment or assault

Documented incidents & responses:

1. Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021) – Chemical Burns Case

   • What happened: Two pledges alleged being covered in substances including an industrial-strength cleaner during initiation. The substances caused severe chemical burns requiring emergency medical treatment and skin graft surgeries.
   • Response: The fraternity was suspended for two years; the pledges filed a $1 million lawsuit against the chapter.
   • Takeaway: This case shows that hazing can involve dangerous substances beyond alcohol. The severity of the injuries led to both university discipline and civil litigation.

2. Corps of Cadets (2023) – “Roasted Pig” Case

   • What happened: A cadet alleged being subjected to degrading hazing, including:
     • Being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” position with an apple in his mouth
     • Simulated sexual acts
     • Verbal abuse and humiliation
   • Response: The cadet filed a $1 million lawsuit against Texas A&M; the university stated it handled the matter under its rules.
   • Takeaway: The Corps of Cadets has its own culture and traditions that can enable hazing. Universities can be held liable for failing to prevent abuse in these programs.

3. Other disciplinary actions:

   • Texas A&M’s public records show multiple fraternities and sororities have faced discipline for hazing-related violations
   • Common issues include forced physical activities, alcohol misuse, and policy violations
   • The university has a Hazing Education and Prevention program that requires all student organizations to complete training

How a Texas A&M hazing case might proceed:

• Jurisdiction: Hazing at Texas A&M would typically be investigated by:
  • Texas A&M University Police Department (for on-campus incidents)
  • College Station Police Department or Brazos County Sheriff’s Office (for off-campus incidents)
  • Brazos County District Attorney’s Office (for criminal prosecution)
• Civil lawsuit venue: Cases would typically be filed in Brazos County District Court
• Potential defendants:
  • Individual students involved
  • Local fraternity/sorority chapter
  • National fraternity/sorority
  • Texas A&M University System and Board of Regents
  • Property owners/landlords (if hazing occurred at off-campus housing)
  • Corps of Cadets leadership (for cases involving military-style groups)

What Texas A&M students & parents should do:

1. Understand the unique risks: The Corps of Cadets has its own traditions that can enable hazing—be aware of both Greek and Corps risks
2. Report through the right channels: Use Texas A&M’s reporting systems, not just Greek or Corps channels
3. Document everything: Save texts, screenshots, photos of injuries, and write down what happened
4. Seek medical attention: Some injuries (like chemical burns) may not be immediately apparent
5. Preserve evidence: Don’t let your child delete messages or clean up physical evidence
6. Consult an attorney: Before talking to university officials or insurance companies, get legal advice
7. Check Texas A&M’s disciplinary records: The university maintains records of hazing violations that can support legal claims
8. Understand your rights: Texas law protects students from retaliation for reporting hazing

University of Texas at Austin (UT)

Campus & culture snapshot:
The University of Texas at Austin is the flagship institution of the UT System, with over 52,000 students. Located in the heart of Austin, UT has a vibrant Greek system with 65 fraternities and sororities across four councils.

UT’s Greek life is particularly significant because:

• It’s one of the largest Greek systems in Texas
• The university has a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion
• Austin’s vibrant social scene creates unique opportunities and risks

Colorado connection:
Austin is approximately 900 miles from Colorado, but many Colorado families send their children to UT for its strong programs in business, engineering, computer science, and the arts. The university’s reputation for academic excellence and vibrant campus life makes it an attractive option for Colorado students.

Official hazing policy & reporting:
UT has one of the most transparent hazing policies in Texas, with a public database of violations. The university defines hazing as:

“Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members are or include students at an educational institution.”

How to report hazing at UT:

• Dean of Students Office: (512) 471-5017
• UT Police Department: (512) 471-4441 (for emergencies)
• Anonymous reporting: UT uses the Ethics and Compliance Hotline
• Title IX Office: For hazing involving sexual harassment or assault
• Public hazing violations database: hazing.utexas.edu

Documented incidents & responses:

1. Pi Kappa Alpha (2023) – Forced Calisthenics and Milk Consumption

   • What happened: New members were allegedly directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics during initiation. The activities were found to be hazing, and the chapter was placed on probation.
   • Response: UT’s public records show the chapter was required to implement new hazing-prevention education.
   • Takeaway: UT’s transparency about hazing violations provides valuable evidence for civil lawsuits. The public nature of the discipline shows the university’s awareness of the issue.

2. Texas Wranglers (2022) – Spirit Group Hazing

   • What happened: The Texas Wranglers, a spirit organization, was disciplined for hazing violations including forced workouts and punishment-based practices.
   • Response: The organization was placed on probation and required to complete additional training.
   • Takeaway: Hazing isn’t limited to Greek organizations. Spirit groups and tradition clubs can also engage in dangerous initiation practices.

3. Other documented violations:

   • UT’s public database shows multiple organizations have been disciplined for hazing, including:
     • Sigma Phi Epsilon (2021): Forced calisthenics and sleep deprivation
     • Kappa Sigma (2020): Alcohol-related hazing
     • Delta Tau Delta (2019): Forced physical activities
   • The database provides valuable evidence of patterns and prior knowledge that can support civil lawsuits

How a UT hazing case might proceed:

• Jurisdiction: Hazing at UT would typically be investigated by:
  • UT Police Department (for on-campus incidents)
  • Austin Police Department (for off-campus incidents in Austin)
  • Travis County District Attorney’s Office (for criminal prosecution)
• Civil lawsuit venue: Cases would typically be filed in Travis County District Court
• Potential defendants:
  • Individual students involved
  • Local fraternity/sorority chapter
  • National fraternity/sorority
  • University of Texas at Austin and UT System Board of Regents
  • Property owners/landlords (if hazing occurred at off-campus housing)

What UT students & parents should do:

1. Use UT’s transparency: The public hazing database is a valuable resource for understanding an organization’s history
2. Report immediately: Use UT’s reporting channels or call UTPD at (512) 471-4441
3. Document everything: Save texts, screenshots, photos of injuries, and write down what happened
4. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
5. Preserve evidence: Don’t let your child delete messages or clean up physical evidence
6. Consult an attorney: Before talking to university officials or insurance companies, get legal advice
7. Understand your rights: Texas law protects students from retaliation for reporting hazing

Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Campus & culture snapshot:
Southern Methodist University is a private university in Dallas with about 12,000 students. Known for its strong programs in business, law, and the arts, SMU has a prominent Greek system with 18 fraternities and 13 sororities.

SMU’s Greek life is particularly significant because:

• It plays a major role in campus social life
• The university has a reputation for affluence and prestige
• Many students come from families with Greek life traditions

Colorado connection:
Dallas is approximately 800 miles from Colorado, but many Colorado families send their children to SMU for its strong academic programs and prestigious reputation. The university’s location in a major city and its emphasis on professional development make it an attractive option for Colorado students.

Official hazing policy & reporting:
As a private university, SMU’s hazing policy is not subject to the same public records requirements as public universities. However, the university prohibits hazing in all forms and defines it as:

“Any action taken or situation created, whether on or off campus, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule for the purpose of initiation into, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization.”

How to report hazing at SMU:

• Dean of Student Life: (214) 768-4564
• SMU Police Department: (214) 768-3333 (for emergencies)
• Anonymous reporting: SMU uses the EthicsPoint system for anonymous reports
• Title IX Office: For hazing involving sexual harassment or assault

Documented incidents & responses:

1. Kappa Alpha Order (2017) – Paddling and Forced Drinking

   • What happened: New members were reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, and deprived of sleep during initiation.
   • Response: The chapter was suspended and had restrictions placed on recruiting until 2021.
   • Takeaway: SMU has demonstrated a willingness to suspend chapters for hazing violations, but the lack of public detail makes it difficult to assess the full scope of the problem.

2. Other disciplinary actions:

   • SMU’s private status means fewer details are publicly available about hazing violations
   • The university has faced criticism for lack of transparency in disciplinary matters
   • SMU has a Greek Life Review Committee that oversees fraternity and sorority conduct

How an SMU hazing case might proceed:

• Jurisdiction: Hazing at SMU would typically be investigated by:
  • SMU Police Department (for on-campus incidents)
  • Dallas Police Department (for off-campus incidents in Dallas)
  • Dallas County District Attorney’s Office (for criminal prosecution)
• Civil lawsuit venue: Cases would typically be filed in Dallas County District Court
• Potential defendants:
  • Individual students involved
  • Local fraternity/sorority chapter
  • National fraternity/sorority
  • Southern Methodist University (as a private institution, SMU has fewer immunity protections than public universities)
  • Property owners/landlords (if hazing occurred at off-campus housing)

What SMU students & parents should do:

1. Understand private university limitations: SMU has fewer transparency requirements than public universities, making it harder to know an organization’s history
2. Report immediately: Use SMU’s reporting channels or call SMU PD at (214) 768-3333
3. Document everything: Save texts, screenshots, photos of injuries, and write down what happened
4. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
5. Preserve evidence: Don’t let your child delete messages or clean up physical evidence
6. Consult an attorney: Before talking to university officials or insurance companies, get legal advice
7. Understand your rights: Texas law still applies to hazing at private universities, and students have legal protections

Baylor University

Campus & culture snapshot:
Baylor University is a private Christian university in Waco with about 20,000 students. Known for its strong programs in business, law, and the sciences, Baylor has a prominent Greek system with 14 fraternities and 12 sororities.

Baylor’s Greek life is particularly significant because:

• The university has a strong religious identity
• Greek organizations play a major role in campus social life
• Baylor has faced scrutiny in recent years over sexual assault and Title IX issues

Colorado connection:
Waco is approximately 850 miles from Colorado, but many Colorado families send their children to Baylor for its strong academic programs and Christian values. The university’s reputation for combining faith and learning makes it an attractive option for Colorado students from religious backgrounds.

Official hazing policy & reporting:
Baylor prohibits hazing in all forms and defines it as:

“Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off campus, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization.”

How to report hazing at Baylor:

• Dean for Student Development: (254) 710-1715
• Baylor Police Department: (254) 710-2222 (for emergencies)
• Anonymous reporting: Baylor uses the EthicsPoint system for anonymous reports
• Title IX Office: For hazing involving sexual harassment or assault

Documented incidents & responses:

1. Baylor Baseball (2020) – Team Hazing

   • What happened: 14 baseball players were suspended following a hazing investigation. Specific details were not publicly released, but the suspensions were staggered over the early season.
   • Response: The university stated that the matter was handled under its conduct policies.
   • Takeaway: Hazing can occur in athletic programs, not just Greek organizations. Baylor’s history of Title IX issues may affect how it handles hazing cases.

2. Other disciplinary actions:

   • Baylor’s private status and religious identity mean fewer details are publicly available about hazing violations
   • The university has faced criticism for lack of transparency in disciplinary matters
   • Baylor has a Greek Life Advisory Board that oversees fraternity and sorority conduct

How a Baylor hazing case might proceed:

• Jurisdiction: Hazing at Baylor would typically be investigated by:
  • Baylor Police Department (for on-campus incidents)
  • Waco Police Department (for off-campus incidents in Waco)
  • McLennan County District Attorney’s Office (for criminal prosecution)
• Civil lawsuit venue: Cases would typically be filed in McLennan County District Court
• Potential defendants:
  • Individual students involved
  • Local fraternity/sorority chapter
  • National fraternity/sorority
  • Baylor University (as a private institution, Baylor has fewer immunity protections than public universities)
  • Property owners/landlords (if hazing occurred at off-campus housing)

What Baylor students & parents should do:

1. Understand Baylor’s unique culture: The university’s religious identity may affect how it handles hazing cases
2. Report immediately: Use Baylor’s reporting channels or call Baylor PD at (254) 710-2222
3. Document everything: Save texts, screenshots, photos of injuries, and write down what happened
4. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
5. Preserve evidence: Don’t let your child delete messages or clean up physical evidence
6. Consult an attorney: Before talking to university officials or insurance companies, get legal advice
7. Understand your rights: Texas law still applies to hazing at private universities, and students have legal protections

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Why National Histories Matter for Texas Families

When your child joins a fraternity or sorority at a Texas university, they’re not just joining a local chapter—they’re becoming part of a national organization with its own history, policies, and track record. Many of the fraternities and sororities at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are chapters of large national organizations that have faced hazing allegations and lawsuits across the country.

Understanding this national context is crucial because:

1. Pattern evidence: When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous script that got another chapter shut down or sued in another state, it shows foreseeability—that the national organization knew or should have known about the risks.

2. Insurance coverage: National organizations often have insurance policies that may cover hazing incidents. However, insurers frequently try to deny coverage, arguing that hazing is an “intentional act” excluded from coverage.

3. Policy enforcement: National organizations set anti-hazing policies, but enforcement varies widely. When a national organization has a history of weak enforcement, it can support negligence claims.

4. Training and supervision: National organizations are responsible for training local chapters and monitoring their activities. When hazing occurs, families can investigate whether the national organization provided adequate training and supervision.

Major Fraternities with Hazing Histories at Texas Universities

Below are some of the major fraternities present at Texas universities that have well-documented national hazing histories. This is not an exhaustive list, and the presence of these organizations at a university does not mean they currently have hazing issues. However, families should be aware of these patterns when evaluating their child’s Greek experience.

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike)

National overview:

• Founded in 1868 at the University of Virginia
• One of the largest fraternities in the country with over 220 chapters
• Known for its strong alumni network and emphasis on leadership

Presence at Texas universities:

• University of Houston
• Texas A&M University
• University of Texas at Austin
• Southern Methodist University

National hazing history:

1. Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (2021)

   • What happened: Pledge Stone Foltz was forced to drink an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” event. He died from alcohol poisoning.
   • Legal actions: Multiple criminal convictions; family reached a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU).
   • Impact: Strengthened Ohio anti-hazing laws; Pi Kappa Phi chapter permanently removed.

2. David Bogenberger – Northern Illinois University (2012)

   • What happened: Pledge David Bogenberger died from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event.
   • Legal actions: Family awarded $14 million settlement in 2018, split among 44 fraternity/sorority members present.

3. University of Houston (2025) – The Case That Changed Texas

   • What happened: As detailed earlier, Leonel Bermudez suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after extreme hazing by the Beta Nu chapter. The chapter was permanently closed.
   • Legal actions: $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit filed against UH, Pi Kappa Phi national, and individual members.

Texas takeaway: Pi Kappa Alpha has a well-documented pattern of alcohol-related hazing deaths. The recent UH case shows that these patterns continue in Texas, and that national organizations can be held liable when chapters repeat dangerous traditions.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE)

National overview:

• Founded in 1856 at the University of Alabama
• One of the largest fraternities in the country with over 230 chapters
• Known for its “True Gentleman” philosophy

Presence at Texas universities:

• University of Houston
• Texas A&M University
• University of Texas at Austin
• Southern Methodist University
• Baylor University

National hazing history:

1. University of Alabama (2023) – Traumatic Brain Injury Case

   • What happened: A pledge allegedly suffered a traumatic brain injury during hazing rituals.
   • Legal actions: Lawsuit filed against the fraternity alleging fraud, negligence, and assault; outcome pending or confidential.

2. Texas A&M University (2021) – Chemical Burns Case

   • What happened: Two pledges were allegedly covered in substances including an industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns that required skin graft surgeries.
   • Legal actions: Pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million; fraternity suspended for two years.

3. University of Texas at Austin (2024) – Assault Case

   • What happened: An Australian exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members at a party. Injuries included a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose.
   • Legal actions: Student sued SAE chapter for over $1 million; chapter already under suspension for prior hazing/safety violations.

4. Carson Starkey – California Polytechnic State University (2008)

   • What happened: Pledge Carson Starkey died from alcohol poisoning after being coerced into heavy drinking.
   • Legal actions: Family settled with SAE for a confidential amount; used settlement funds to establish Aware Awake Alive, a national non-profit educating about hazing risks.
   • Impact: SAE later announced elimination of traditional pledge process nationwide.

Texas takeaway: SAE has a pattern of severe physical hazing, including chemical burns and traumatic brain injuries. The Texas cases show that these dangerous practices are happening at major Texas universities, and that SAE’s elimination of pledging has not ended hazing risks.

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

National overview:

• Founded in 1848 at Miami University in Ohio
• Known for its emphasis on academic achievement and leadership
• One of the first fraternities to ban alcohol from chapter facilities

Presence at Texas universities:

• University of Houston
• Texas A&M University
• University of Texas at Austin
• Southern Methodist University
• Baylor University

National hazing history:

1. Max Gruver – Louisiana State University (2017)

   • What happened: Pledge Max Gruver was forced to participate in a “Bible study” drinking game where he had to drink whenever he answered questions incorrectly. He died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%).
   • Legal actions: Multiple members charged; one convicted of negligent homicide.
   • Impact: Louisiana enacted the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony.

2. Other incidents:

   • Multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries at various campuses
   • Pattern of alcohol-related hazing despite the fraternity’s official alcohol ban

Texas takeaway: Despite Phi Delta Theta’s official ban on alcohol, the fraternity has a pattern of alcohol-related hazing deaths. The Max Gruver case shows how drinking games framed as “tradition” can be deadly, and how legislative change often follows tragedy.

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

National overview:

• Founded in 1904 at the College of Charleston
• Known for its emphasis on leadership and service
• One of the largest fraternities in the country with over 180 chapters

Presence at Texas universities:

• University of Houston
• Texas A&M University
• University of Texas at Austin
• Southern Methodist University

National hazing history:

1. Andrew Coffey – Florida State University (2017)

   • What happened: Pledge Andrew Coffey was given a handle of liquor and pressured to drink it during a “Big Brother Night” event. He died from alcohol poisoning.
   • Legal actions: Multiple members charged with hazing; FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life.
   • Impact: Pi Kappa Phi chapter closed; family settled with fraternity and university.

2. University of Houston (2025) – Rhabdomyolysis Case

   • What happened: As detailed earlier, Leonel Bermudez suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after extreme physical hazing. The chapter was permanently closed.
   • Legal actions: $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit filed against UH, Pi Kappa Phi national, and individual members.

Texas takeaway: Pi Kappa Phi has a pattern of alcohol-related hazing deaths, with the recent UH case showing that these dangerous practices continue in Texas. The rapid closure of the UH chapter demonstrates how seriously universities and nationals can respond when confronted with irrefutable evidence.

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)

National overview:

• Founded in 1865 at Washington and Lee University
• Known for its emphasis on Southern tradition and leadership
• One of the largest fraternities in the country with over 130 chapters

Presence at Texas universities:

• University of Houston
• Texas A&M University
• University of Texas at Austin
• Southern Methodist University
• Baylor University

National hazing history:

1. Southern Methodist University (2017)

   • What happened: New members were reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, and deprived of sleep during initiation.
   • Response: The chapter was suspended and had restrictions placed on recruiting until 2021.

2. Other incidents:

   • Multiple hazing-related suspensions at various campuses
   • Pattern of physical hazing including paddling and forced calisthenics

Texas takeaway: Kappa Alpha Order has a history of physical hazing, including at SMU. The fraternity’s emphasis on tradition can create an environment where hazing is normalized and difficult to challenge.

What This Means for Texas Families

Understanding these national patterns helps Texas families in several ways:

1. Informed decision-making: When your child is considering joining a Greek organization, you can research its national history and ask informed questions about local chapter practices.

2. Recognizing red flags: If your child describes activities that match national hazing patterns (forced drinking, extreme physical activities, humiliating rituals), it’s a warning sign that the chapter may be repeating dangerous traditions.

3. Legal strategy: When hazing occurs, these national patterns can support legal claims by showing:

   • The national organization had prior notice of the risks
   • The hazing was foreseeable based on the organization’s history
   • The national organization failed to adequately supervise or enforce policies

4. Advocacy and prevention: By understanding these patterns, families can advocate for stronger hazing prevention measures at both the university and national levels.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

The Critical Role of Evidence

In hazing cases, evidence is everything. Universities, fraternities, and insurance companies will fight hard to minimize or deny claims. Strong evidence is what forces accountability and fair compensation.

Why evidence matters:

• Proves that hazing occurred (many organizations deny it)
• Shows who was responsible (individuals, officers, the organization)
• Demonstrates the harm caused (physical, emotional, financial)
• Establishes patterns and prior knowledge (supporting negligence claims)
• Counters common defenses (consent, “just horseplay,” “rogue individuals”)

Types of Evidence in Hazing Cases

1. Digital Communications

Why it’s critical: Group chats, texts, and social media are often the most powerful evidence in hazing cases. They show planning, intent, and what actually happened.

What to preserve:

• GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, fraternity apps: These are commonly used for fraternity/sorority communication
• Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments: Social media often captures hazing activities
• Emails: From chapter officers, national organizations, or university officials

How to preserve it:

• Screenshot immediately: Don’t wait—messages can be deleted
• Capture full context: Include sender names, timestamps, and enough messages before/after to show context
• Save in multiple places: Email to yourself, save to cloud storage, keep on phone
• Don’t delete anything: Even embarrassing or incriminating messages can be important evidence

Real-world example from Texas:
In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, group chat messages allegedly showed:

• Planning of hazing activities
• Instructions to pledges
• Admissions of abuse by chapter officers
• Attempts to cover up what happened

Attorney tip: Digital forensics experts can often recover deleted messages, but original screenshots are still the most powerful evidence.

2. Photos & Videos

Why it’s critical: Photos and videos provide irrefutable proof of hazing activities, injuries, and locations.

What to preserve:

• Injuries: Take photos immediately after the incident, then again over several days to show progression
• Locations: Where hazing occurred (fraternity house, off-campus venue, etc.)
• Events: If safe to do so, capture video of hazing in progress (but don’t put yourself in danger)
• Objects: Paddles, alcohol bottles, costumes, or other items used in hazing

How to preserve it:

• Take multiple angles: For injuries, photograph from different perspectives with scale (coin, ruler, hand)
• Save original files: Don’t compress or edit photos/videos
• Back up immediately: Save to cloud storage, email to yourself, keep on phone

Real-world example from Texas:
In the Texas A&M SAE case, photos of chemical burns on pledges’ skin were critical evidence that led to the fraternity’s suspension and lawsuits.

3. Internal Organization Documents

Why it’s critical: These documents can show what the organization knew, what policies it had, and how it responded to prior incidents.

What to look for:

• Pledge manuals: May contain initiation scripts or “traditions”
• Meeting minutes: Can show discussions about hazing
• Emails/texts from officers: May contain admissions or planning
• Risk management files: Show what the organization knew about risks
• Disciplinary records: Prior hazing violations at the same chapter or other chapters

How to obtain it:

• Through discovery: Once a lawsuit is filed, attorneys can subpoena these documents
• Public records requests: Some university records may be available through FOIA requests
• Anonymous tips: Former members or whistleblowers may provide documents

Real-world example:
In the Penn State Beta Theta Pi case, fraternity security camera footage showing Timothy Piazza’s falls was critical evidence that led to criminal convictions.

4. University Records

Why it’s critical: Universities often have records showing prior hazing incidents, policy violations, and internal communications that can support legal claims.

What to look for:

• Prior discipline: Records of previous hazing violations by the same organization
• Incident reports: Campus police or student conduct reports
• Clery Act reports: Annual crime statistics that may include hazing incidents
• Title IX complaints: If hazing involved sexual harassment or assault
• Internal emails: Communications among administrators about hazing concerns

How to obtain it:

• Public records requests: Many university records are subject to FOIA requests
• Through discovery: Once a lawsuit is filed, attorneys can subpoena these records
• University databases: Some schools (like UT Austin) publish hazing violation records

Real-world example:
UT Austin’s public hazing database has been used in lawsuits to show patterns of hazing and prior knowledge by the university.

5. Medical and Psychological Records

Why it’s critical: Medical records document the physical harm caused by hazing, while psychological records document the emotional trauma.

What to preserve:

• Emergency room records: Initial treatment for injuries or alcohol poisoning
• Hospitalization records: For severe cases requiring inpatient care
• Lab results: Blood alcohol levels, toxicology reports, CK levels (for rhabdomyolysis)
• Surgery records: For cases involving broken bones, internal injuries, or burns
• Psychological evaluations: For PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions
• Therapy records: Ongoing treatment for trauma

How to preserve it:

• Request copies: Ask for complete medical records from all providers
• Follow up: Continue documenting ongoing treatment
• Get expert evaluations: Medical and psychological experts can provide opinions on the long-term effects of hazing

Real-world example from Texas:
In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, medical records showed:

• Critically high creatine kinase (CK) levels
• Rhabdomyolysis diagnosis
• Acute kidney failure
• Four-day hospitalization
• Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage

These records were critical in proving the severity of the hazing and the damages suffered.

6. Witness Testimony

Why it’s critical: Witnesses can provide firsthand accounts of what happened, who was involved, and how the organization responded.

Who to identify:

• Other pledges: Often the most important witnesses; may be afraid to talk but can be compelled through legal process
• Active members: Can provide information about chapter culture and traditions
• Former members: Often willing to testify about their own experiences
• Roommates, friends, significant others: May have noticed changes in behavior or heard admissions
• RAs, hall mates: May have seen the victim coming/going at odd hours
• Bartenders, venue staff: If hazing occurred at a bar or off-campus party venue
• Emergency responders: EMTs, hospital staff who saw the immediate aftermath

How to document:

• Get full names and contact information
• Ask what each person saw or knows
• Have them write down their account while memory is fresh

Real-world example:
In the Stone Foltz case, testimony from other pledges was critical in proving the forced drinking and the chapter’s role in the death.

Damages in Hazing Cases

When hazing occurs, victims and families can suffer a wide range of harms. Texas law allows for compensation for these damages through civil lawsuits.

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses)

1. Medical Expenses

   • Past medical bills: Emergency room, ambulance, hospitalization, medications, medical equipment
   • Future medical expenses: Ongoing therapy, medications, future surgeries, long-term care
   • Life care plans: For catastrophic injuries requiring 24/7 care (like Danny Santulli’s case)

2. Lost Income & Earning Capacity

   • Lost wages: Time off work for medical treatment or recovery
   • Lost educational opportunities: Tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships, delayed graduation
   • Diminished future earning capacity: If injuries result in permanent disability

3. Other Economic Losses

   • Property damage: Clothing, phone, or personal items destroyed during hazing
   • Relocation costs: Transferring to a different school to escape trauma

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective, But Legally Compensable)

1. Physical Pain & Suffering

   • Pain from injuries (broken bones, burns, internal injuries)
   • Ongoing pain from permanent injuries
   • Loss of physical abilities (can’t play sports, walk without pain)

2. Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm

   • Diagnosed conditions: PTSD, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks
   • Unquantifiable harm: Humiliation, shame, loss of dignity, fear, nightmares, flashbacks
   • Survivor’s guilt: If friends were also hazed or if someone died

3. Loss of Enjoyment of Life

   • Can no longer participate in activities they loved
   • Withdrawal from college experience
   • Relationship damage (friendships, romantic relationships)
   • Loss of educational experience (what they came to college for)

4. Reputational Harm

   • Social stigma (“the kid who got hazed”)
   • Difficulty transferring or getting jobs if incident is public

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)

When hazing results in death, surviving family members can recover:

1. Economic Losses:

   • Funeral and burial costs
   • Loss of financial support (if the deceased would have contributed to family income)

2. Non-Economic Losses:

   • Loss of companionship, love, and society
   • Grief and emotional suffering of family members
   • Loss of guidance and counsel (especially for younger siblings)
   • Parents’ and siblings’ mental health treatment

Note: In Texas, only certain family members can bring wrongful death claims (spouse, children, parents; sometimes siblings depending on facts).

Punitive Damages (When Available)

Purpose: Punish defendants for especially reckless, willful, or malicious conduct; deter future hazing.

When courts/juries award them:

• Defendant had prior warnings and ignored them
• Hazing was particularly cruel or degrading
• Defendant tried to cover up or lied under oath
• Defendant showed callous indifference to known risks

In Texas:

• Punitive damages are available but capped in many cases
• Strategy: Argue gross negligence or intentional conduct to maximize exposure

How Recovery Works in Practice

Settlement vs. Trial

• Most cases settle (confidential terms often, but some public amounts like Foltz $10M, Gruver $6.1M)
• Trials are rare but can result in larger verdicts and public accountability

How Settlement Funds Are Used

• Immediate needs: Pay medical bills, replace lost income, cover funeral costs
• Long-term care: Fund ongoing therapy, medications, life care for catastrophic injuries
• Educational continuity: Pay for victim to transfer and complete degree elsewhere
• Legacy & advocacy: Many families use settlements to create foundations or scholarships in the victim’s name

Examples of advocacy from settlements:

• Aware Awake Alive (Carson Starkey family)
• Max Gruver Foundation

Accountability Beyond Money

• Institutional reform: Settlements often include consent decrees requiring universities or fraternities to implement specific anti-hazing programs
• Chapter closure / org bans: Court-ordered or settlement-condition permanent removal of chapter
• Public transparency: Some families insist on public disclosure of settlement terms to raise awareness

The Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing cases often involve multiple defendants, each with their own insurance policies and legal strategies.

Common Defendants and Their Insurance

1. Individual students:

   • May have homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance
   • Policies often exclude intentional acts like hazing

2. Local chapter:

   • May have chapter-specific liability insurance
   • Often purchased through the national organization

3. National fraternity/sorority:

   • Typically have general liability insurance
   • May argue hazing is excluded as an “intentional act”

4. University:

   • Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity protections
   • Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections
   • May have general liability insurance

5. Third parties (landlords, bars, security companies):

   • May have premises liability or general liability insurance

Common Insurance Defenses

Insurance companies often argue:

• Hazing is an “intentional act” excluded from coverage
• The policy doesn’t cover certain defendants
• The incident doesn’t meet the policy’s definition of “occurrence”

How Experienced Hazing Attorneys Overcome These Defenses

1. Negligent supervision vs. intentional act:

   • Even if hazing was intentional, the national or university’s failure to supervise was negligent, which may be covered

2. Bad faith claims:

   • If insurer wrongfully denies coverage, sue for bad faith and consequential damages

3. Multiple policies / creative lawyering:

   • Identify all potential policies (homeowner’s, chapter, national, university)
   • Argue over trigger dates, notice requirements, and exclusion language

4. Force insurers to defend:

   • Use legal arguments to compel insurers to provide a defense
   • Settlement leverage increases when insurers are involved

Real-world example:
In the Stone Foltz case, multiple insurance policies were involved, and creative legal arguments were used to maximize coverage and settlement amounts.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Physical signs:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries (especially if excuses don’t add up)
• Extreme fatigue, exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Weight loss or gain (from food/water restriction or stress)
• Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, calls at 3 AM, inability to sleep)
• Injuries to hands, back, legs from paddling or forced exercise
• Chemical burns, rashes, or skin damage
• Signs of alcohol poisoning or drug use (even if your child doesn’t normally drink/use drugs)
• Brown or dark urine (sign of rhabdomyolysis, a life-threatening condition)

Behavioral & emotional changes:

• Sudden secrecy about fraternity/sorority activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
• Withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-Greek activities
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability, anger
• Defensive when asked about the organization
• Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
• Sudden obsession with pleasing older members
• Talking about “just having to get through this” or “everyone did it before me”

Academic red flags:

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

Financial red flags:

• Unexpected large expenses (forced purchases, “fines,” dues far exceeding what was advertised)
• Buying excessive alcohol or items for older members
• Overdrafts, maxed credit cards, requests for money without clear explanation

Digital/social behavior:

• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
• Anxiety when phone buzzes or pings
• Deleting messages or clearing browser history obsessively
• Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response
• Social media posts showing humiliating or concerning activities
• Geo-location tracking apps newly installed (Find My Friends, Life360 demanded by the org)

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally)

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

If your child opens up, listen without judgment. If they shut down, don’t force it—but monitor closely and stay ready to intervene.

What to Do If You Suspect Hazing

Immediate safety:

• If your child is in physical danger (intoxicated, injured, being threatened), call 911 or campus police immediately.
• Get them medical attention; prioritize their health over “getting in trouble.”

Document everything:

• Write down dates, times, and what your child told you (contemporaneous notes are powerful evidence).
• If your child shows you texts, group chats, or photos, screenshot them immediately or ask permission to photograph their phone screen.
• Take photos of any visible injuries.
• Save any physical items (damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, paddles or props if available).

Reporting:

• Campus authorities: Contact the Dean of Students office, Office of Student Conduct, or campus police.
• Local police: If hazing involved crimes (assault, sexual assault, furnishing alcohol to minor), you can file a police report with city/county PD.
• University hotlines: Many schools have anonymous hazing hotlines or online reporting forms.
• National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous, monitored 24/7).

Legal consultation:

• Contact a lawyer experienced in hazing cases early, even if you’re not sure you want to file suit.
• A lawyer can:
  • Help you preserve evidence before it’s destroyed.
  • Navigate university processes (which can be adversarial).
  • Advise on criminal vs. civil options.
  • Protect your child from pressure or retaliation.

What NOT to do:

• Don’t confront the fraternity/sorority directly (they may destroy evidence or retaliate).
• Don’t sign anything from the university or insurance company without legal advice.
• Don’t post details on public social media before consulting a lawyer (can compromise case).
• Don’t let the university convince you “this is being handled internally” if you want accountability beyond campus discipline.

48-Hour Action Checklist for Parents

HOUR 1–6 (IMMEDIATE CRISIS):

✅ Medical: If injured or intoxicated, get to ER immediately
✅ Safety: Remove child from dangerous situation
✅ Evidence: Screenshot any messages they show you; photograph visible injuries
✅ Notes: Write down everything they tell you (date, time, what happened, who was there)
✅ Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for immediate legal guidance

HOUR 6–24 (EVIDENCE PRESERVATION):

✅ Digital: Help child preserve all group chats, DMs, texts (do NOT delete anything)
✅ Physical: Secure clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
✅ Medical records: Request copies of all ER/hospital records
✅ Witnesses: Write down names and contact info for other pledges, bystanders
✅ University: Note any communications from school (emails, calls, meetings) but do NOT respond yet

HOUR 24–48 (STRATEGIC DECISIONS):

✅ Legal consultation: Speak with experienced hazing attorney (Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911)
✅ Reporting decision: Decide whether to report to campus police, local police, Dean of Students (with lawyer’s guidance)
✅ University response: If school contacts you, refer them to your attorney
✅ Insurance: Do NOT talk to any insurance adjuster without lawyer present
✅ Evidence backup: Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage or email to yourself

WEEK ONE PRIORITIES:

✅ Medical follow-up: Continue documenting injuries; see specialists if needed; get psych evaluation if trauma present
✅ Evidence gathering: Attorney will begin subpoenaing records, obtaining deleted messages via forensics
✅ Witness interviews: Attorney will contact other pledges and witnesses
✅ Strategy session: Decide on criminal report, civil suit, both, or internal university process
✅ Protection: If retaliation occurs, document and report immediately

For Students: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide

Ask yourself:

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

If you answered YES to any of these, it’s likely hazing.

Use the Three-Tier System:

• Tier 1 (Subtle): Servitude, social control, deception, “optional” but actually mandatory → Still hazing.
• Tier 2 (Harassment): Yelling, sleep deprivation, humiliation, forced uncomfortable activities → Illegal hazing.
• Tier 3 (Violent): Forced drinking, beatings, sexual acts, dangerous tests → Serious crime; get help NOW.

How to Exit Safely

If you’re in immediate danger:

• Call 911 or campus police.
• Get to a safe location (your dorm, a friend’s place, a public area).
• You will not get in trouble for calling for help in a medical emergency (most schools and Texas law have good-faith reporter protections).

If you want to quit / de-pledge:

• You have the legal right to leave at any time, no matter what they told you.
• Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend) so there’s a record.
• Send an email or text to the chapter president / new member educator stating: “I am resigning my pledge/membership effective immediately.”
• Do not go to “one last meeting” where they might pressure or retaliate.
• If you fear retaliation, report that fear to the Dean of Students and campus police.

Protecting yourself from retaliation:

• Document any threats or harassment (screenshots, recordings if legal, witnesses).
• File a formal complaint with the university if you’re being stalked, harassed, or threatened.
• In Texas, harassment and stalking are crimes; you can seek a protective order if necessary.

Evidence Collection (For Students)

While it’s happening or immediately after:

1. Screenshots of group chats:

   • Capture full conversations with timestamps, participant names visible.
   • Include messages before and after the hazing to show context.
   • If messages are being deleted, screenshot as soon as you see them.

2. Voice memos / recordings:

   • In Texas, you can legally record conversations you are a party to (one-party consent state).
   • Record meetings, phone calls, or in-person interactions where hazing is discussed or ordered.

3. Photos / videos:

   • Injuries: Take photos immediately, then again over several days to show progression.
   • Locations: Photo of the house, room, or venue where hazing occurred.
   • Objects: Paddles, alcohol bottles, props, costumes used in hazing.

4. Save everything digital:

   • Don’t delete anything (texts, DMs, emails, social media posts) even if you’re embarrassed.
   • Back up to cloud storage or email screenshots to yourself / a trusted adult.

5. Medical documentation:

   • If you go to ER, student health, or urgent care, tell them you were hazed so it’s in the medical record.
   • Request copies of all records.

6. Witness information:

   • Names and contact info for other pledges, members, or bystanders who saw what happened.

Who to Trust / Where to Report

On campus:

• Dean of Students or Office of Student Conduct (formal reporting; triggers investigation)
• Title IX Coordinator (if hazing involved sexual harassment or assault)
• Campus police (if crimes occurred)
• Counseling center (for mental health support; conversations are generally confidential)
• Trusted professor or academic advisor (can help you navigate university systems)

Off campus:

• Local police (city PD or county sheriff) if hazing involved crimes
• National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous, 24/7)
• Lawyer specializing in hazing cases (confidential consultation)

Who to be cautious with:

• Fraternity/sorority advisors employed by the org (they may prioritize the org over you)
• “Greek Life” office at some schools can be more focused on protecting Greek system than individual students (varies by campus)
• Friends still in the org (they may feel conflicted or report back to leadership)

Your Legal Rights in Texas

• You cannot be punished for calling 911 or seeking medical help in an emergency, even if alcohol/drugs were involved (good-faith reporter immunity).
• Hazing is a crime; you are the victim, not the perpetrator (even if you “agreed”).
• You can file a civil lawsuit for damages even if no criminal charges are filed.
• You can request a no-contact order through the university if you’re being harassed after reporting.

For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were part of a hazing incident and now have regrets, you may be feeling guilt, fear, and uncertainty about what to do next. Here’s what you need to know:

Acknowledge Your Feelings

It’s normal to feel:

• Guilt for participating in or allowing hazing
• Fear of legal consequences or retaliation
• Loyalty to the organization despite what happened
• Uncertainty about whether to come forward

These feelings are valid, but remember: you have the power to help prevent future harm.

Why Your Testimony Matters

• Prevent future deaths and injuries: Your information could save lives.
• Hold the right people accountable: Hazing is often enabled by a culture of silence.
• Protect yourself: Cooperating with authorities can lead to leniency for your own role.
• Find closure: Many former members report feeling a sense of relief after coming forward.

Legal Protections for Witnesses

• Immunity for good-faith reporting: Texas law protects those who report hazing in good faith.
• Witness cooperation agreements: Prosecutors may offer immunity or reduced charges in exchange for testimony.
• Confidentiality: Your identity can often be protected during investigations.
• Legal representation: An attorney can help you navigate your role as a witness and protect your rights.

How to Come Forward

1. Document what you know:

   • Write down everything you remember (who, what, when, where, why).
   • Save any evidence you have (texts, photos, videos).

2. Consult an attorney:

   • Before talking to authorities or the organization, get legal advice.
   • An attorney can help you understand your rights and potential exposure.

3. Decide how to report:

   • To the university: Dean of Students, Title IX office, or campus police.
   • To law enforcement: Local police or district attorney’s office.
   • To an attorney: A lawyer can report on your behalf and protect your identity.

4. Prepare for the process:

   • You may be asked to give a statement, testify in court, or provide evidence.
   • An attorney can help you prepare and accompany you to interviews.

5. Take care of your mental health:

   • Coming forward can be emotionally challenging.
   • Consider speaking with a therapist who specializes in trauma or guilt.

What to Expect

• Investigation: Authorities will gather evidence and interview witnesses.
• Legal proceedings: If charges are filed, you may be called to testify.
• Retaliation: Unfortunately, retaliation can occur. Report any threats or harassment immediately.
• Support: Many organizations and attorneys can connect you with support resources.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

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

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly

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

3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms

   • What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements
   • Why it’s wrong: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are often far below case value
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing it first

4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer

   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
   • Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility; can waive privilege
   • What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”

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

6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it”

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

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
   • Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
   • What to do instead: Politely decline and say, “My attorney will contact you”

Short FAQ

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”

Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for:

• Gross negligence
• Title IX violations
• When suing individuals in their personal capacity

Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”

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

“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, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not 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 the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”

Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on:

• Sponsorship
• Control
• Knowledge
• Foreseeability

Many major hazing cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”

Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request:

• Sealed court records
• Confidential settlement terms

We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“How much is my hazing case worth?”

Every case is unique, and outcomes depend on:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost earning capacity
• Emotional trauma
• Strength of evidence
• Prior incidents by the organization
• Insurance coverage
• Venue (where the case is filed)

While we can’t predict specific outcomes, major hazing cases have resulted in settlements and verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to $14 million. Contact Attorney911 for a confidential evaluation of your specific situation.

“What if my child was drinking underage? Will they get in trouble?”

Texas law provides immunity for good-faith reporting in medical emergencies. If your child calls 911 for a medical emergency, they generally won’t face charges for underage drinking. Focus on getting medical help first—legal consequences for the hazers are far more severe than any potential underage drinking charge.

“Can we sue the national fraternity?”

Yes, national fraternities and sororities can be held liable for hazing by their chapters. Key factors include:

• What the national organization knew or should have known
• Whether they adequately supervised the chapter
• Whether they enforced their own anti-hazing policies
• Prior incidents at other chapters

The recent UH Pi Kappa Phi case shows that national organizations can face significant liability when chapters repeat dangerous patterns.

“What if the fraternity is already suspended or closed?”

Even if the chapter is suspended or closed, you can still pursue legal action against:

• Individual members involved
• The national fraternity
• The university
• Property owners

In fact, the closure of a chapter can be evidence of the severity of the hazing and the organization’s knowledge of the problem.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC is a Texas personal injury and complex litigation firm with deep experience in hazing cases. From our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Colorado and surrounding areas.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña)

Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national defense firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

• Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Use Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) to reduce settlements
• Deploy delay tactics to pressure plaintiffs
• Fight coverage under exclusions

This insider knowledge is invaluable when:

• Insurance companies deny coverage for hazing incidents
• Adjusters offer lowball settlements
• Defense attorneys try to minimize damages

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello)

Ralph Manginello is one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation. This experience proves we can take on:

• National fraternities with unlimited legal budgets
• Universities with deep pockets
• Insurance companies with teams of adjusters

Our BP litigation credential tells you what matters most: we are built for complex, resource-intensive institutional cases and we will deploy the right experts to prove root-cause negligence.

Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience

We have extensive experience in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases, including:

• Multi-million dollar wrongful death settlements
• Economist collaboration for valuing loss of life
• Life care planning for permanent disabilities
• Psychological evaluations for trauma and PTSD

This experience is critical for hazing cases involving:

• Death from alcohol poisoning or physical abuse
• Permanent disabilities (brain injury, organ damage)
• Long-term psychological trauma

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand:

• Criminal hazing charges and penalties
• How criminal cases interact with civil litigation
• Advising witnesses and former members with dual exposure

This dual expertise is crucial when:

• Your child faces criminal exposure
• Witnesses need legal protection
• Criminal evidence can support civil claims

Investigative Depth and Expert Network

We have a network of experts we utilize on hazing cases:

• Medical experts: For rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD, and other hazing-related injuries
• Digital forensics experts: For recovering deleted group chats and social media evidence
• Greek life culture experts: For explaining power dynamics and coercion
• Institutional policy experts: For analyzing national and university anti-hazing policies
• Economists: For valuing lost earning capacity and future medical needs
• Life care planners: For developing plans for catastrophic injuries

Our evidence collection capabilities include:

• Group chat recovery (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord, Snapchat)
• Social media archives
• Chapter records and national fraternity files
• University disciplinary records
• Prior incident reports

Proven Results in Complex Cases

We have recovered millions of dollars for clients in complex personal injury cases, including:

• BP Texas City explosion litigation (one of the few Texas firms involved)
• Multi-million dollar wrongful death settlements
• Catastrophic injury cases with lifetime care needs
• Insurance bad faith claims

While past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, our track record shows we can take on powerful defendants and win.

Texas-Specific Geographic Mastery

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we have deep knowledge of:

• Texas courts and procedures
• Local universities and Greek systems
• Texas hazing laws and precedents
• Insurance company tactics in Texas

This local expertise means we can:

• Navigate the specific court systems where your case would be filed
• Understand the unique culture of Texas universities
• Anticipate how Texas juries might view hazing cases

Bilingual Capability

Lupe Peña speaks fluent Spanish, allowing us to serve Hispanic families throughout Texas. We can provide:

• Consultations in Spanish
• Spanish-language legal documents
• Cultural understanding of Texas demographics

Our Approach to Hazing Cases

At Attorney911, we understand that hazing cases are about more than money—they’re about accountability, prevention, and justice. Our approach includes:

1. Immediate action: We move quickly to preserve evidence before it’s destroyed.
2. Comprehensive investigation: We leave no stone unturned in gathering evidence and building your case.
3. Strategic legal action: We pursue all available legal avenues, from criminal complaints to civil lawsuits.
4. Insurance negotiation: We fight for full coverage and fair settlements.
5. Trial readiness: We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which strengthens our settlement position.
6. Victim advocacy: We prioritize your child’s well-being and recovery throughout the process.
7. Prevention focus: We work to ensure that what happened to your child doesn’t happen to another family.

Call to Action for Colorado Families

If you’re a parent in Colorado and your child has been hazed at a Texas university, you’re not alone. Whether your child attends the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other Texas school, you have legal rights and options.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation:

• 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

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We’ll listen to your story without judgment
• We’ll review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
• We’ll explain your legal options: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
• We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
• We’ll answer your questions about costs (we work on contingency—no fee unless we win)
• No pressure to hire us—take time to decide

Servicios en español disponibles:

• Hablamos Español – Contacte a Lupe Peña en lupe@atty911.com para consulta en español
• Servicios legales en español disponibles para familias hispanas

Remember:

• Time is critical—evidence disappears quickly, and statutes of limitations apply
• You don’t have to face this alone—we’re here to help
• Accountability is possible—universities and fraternities can be held responsible
• Prevention saves lives—your case can help stop hazing for future students

If you’re not sure whether what happened is hazing, call us anyway. We can help you understand your situation and your options.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Legal Emergency Lawyers™ – Immediate Help. Fast Wins.

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

For your convenience, here are the full, plain-text URLs for all resources referenced in this article:

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”

• Published: November 21, 2025 | Authors: Bryce Newberry & Holly Galvan Posey
• Key Content: Exclusive KPRC 2 investigation. Attorney Ralph Manginello’s quote “His urine was brown” describes the rhabdomyolysis symptoms. Details hazing locations (Pi Kappa Phi house, Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Boulevard Park). Describes the “pledge fanny pack” humiliation (condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices). Lists physical abuse (sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, vomiting rituals, cold-weather workouts). Confirms medical findings: critically elevated creatine kinase, rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, multi-day hospitalization. Names all 13 defendants including chapter officers. Includes UH statement calling conduct “deeply disturbing” and confirming Nov 14, 2025 charter surrender.
• 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”

• Published: November 22, 2025 | Author: Nick Natario
• Key Content: Most detailed timeline of hazing events. Sept 16 bid acceptance → Sept-Oct forced dress codes, interviews, overnight chauffeuring → Oct 13 another pledge hog-tied face-down with object in mouth → Nov 3 Bermudez forced through 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats → Nov 6 chapter suspension → Nov 6-9 hospitalization. Describes “waterboarding” tactics (hose spraying in face). Details forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting. Includes Attorney Lupe Peña quote: “If this prevents harm to another person…Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Notes Bermudez declined interviews due to fear of retaliation.
• URL: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/

3. Hoodline — “University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Face $10M Lawsuit Over Alleged Hazing and Abuse”

• Published: November 22, 2025 | Author: Alyssa Ford
• Key Content: Emphasizes the $10 million damage demand. Confirms rapid chapter suspension (Nov 6) and Nov 14 charter surrender. Summarizes allegations: extreme workouts, forced overeating, sleep deprivation, simulated waterboarding, humiliating fanny-pack requirements, strict interview schedules, punishment threats. Confirms rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure diagnoses. Notes complaint alleges UH and fraternity leadership knew about systemic hazing and failed to intervene. Includes Attorney911 messaging urging other pledges to come forward.
• URL: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

ATTORNEY911 EDUCATIONAL YOUTUBE VIDEOS

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

• Content: Attorney911 educational video explaining how to properly use your smartphone to document evidence after an injury or incident. Covers best practices for photographing scenes, recording witness statements, preserving digital evidence, and what to capture immediately after an accident or hazing incident. Critical for parents and victims who need to preserve evidence before it disappears.
• When to Link: When discussing evidence preservation, documentation, or what to do immediately after discovering hazing abuse.
• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

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

• Content: Attorney Ralph Manginello explains Texas statutes of limitations for personal injury cases. Covers filing deadlines, exceptions, tolling provisions, and why timing is critical. Essential information for hazing victims and families who need to understand their legal window to take action.
• When to Link: When discussing time limits for filing hazing lawsuits, deadlines, or urgency of legal action.
• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

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

• Content: Attorney Ralph Manginello identifies common mistakes that can damage or destroy personal injury claims. Covers social media pitfalls, recorded statements to insurance companies, gaps in medical treatment, and other errors that defense attorneys exploit. Vital guidance for hazing victims navigating the legal process.
• When to Link: When advising families on what NOT to do after discovering hazing, or when discussing case preparation.
• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

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

• Content: Attorney911 explains the contingency fee model for personal injury cases—no upfront costs, no fee unless the firm wins. Breaks down how fees are calculated, what expenses are covered, and why this model makes justice accessible to families who couldn’t otherwise afford representation against wealthy fraternities and universities.
• When to Link: When discussing costs, affordability, or the firm’s “no fee unless we win” policy.
• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

ATTORNEY911 MAIN WEBSITE

8. Attorney911 — Main Website & Contact

• Content: Full-service Texas personal injury and criminal defense law firm. 24/7 free consultations. Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont. Practice areas include hazing litigation, wrongful death, catastrophic injury, 18-wheeler accidents, offshore/maritime, construction injuries, refinery/plant accidents, toxic torts, and insurance claims. Contingency fee basis for personal injury cases. Spanish-language services available (Se habla Español). Over 25 years of courtroom experience. Admitted to federal courts in the Southern District of Texas.
• When to Link: Always include in CTA sections. Use for “Contact Attorney911 for a free consultation” links.
• URL: https://attorney911.com

Attorney911 Contact Information:

• Primary Phone: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct: (713) 528-9070
• Cell: (713) 443-4781
• Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello), lupe@atty911.com (Lupe Peña)
• Spanish-language services: Se habla Español – lupe@atty911.com

National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) (anonymous, 24/7)