Navigating Hazing in Comanche County: A Comprehensive Guide for Texas Families

A chilling silence falls over the WhatsApp group chat. Across Comanche County, parents are enjoying a quiet evening, perhaps looking forward to a weekend event their college-bound children will attend. Perhaps they envision their students thriving in campus organizations, making lifelong friends, and enjoying the rich academic and social tapestry of Texas life. But for one student from Comanche County, away at a Texas university, this night is anything but peaceful. On their phone, a senior member’s message flashes, demanding their presence at a remote, off-campus location in the dead of night. The instructions are vague, the tone menacing. Failure to appear, the message implies, will mean losing their “pledge status” and facing severe social repercussions. They’ve already been performing arduous “tasks” for weeks – sleep-deprived, constantly humiliated, and threatened with social isolation if they dare speak of it. Now, as they walk into the darkness guided by GPS coordinates sent via Snapchat, an unsettling realization dawns: this isn’t about bonding or tradition. This is hazing, and they are trapped.

This scenario, tragically common, affects families right here in Comanche County and across our great state of Texas. Whether your child attends a state powerhouse like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, or the University of Texas at Austin, or a private institution like Southern Methodist University or Baylor University, the risk of hazing is a stark reality. At The Manginello Law Firm, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, we understand this pain and fear. We are Texas-based personal injury and complex litigation attorneys dedicated to providing clear, authoritative guidance for families navigating the complex, often hidden, world of campus hazing.

This comprehensive guide to hazing and the law in Texas is specifically written for families in Comanche County and throughout our state. We will explore:

• What modern hazing truly looks like in 2025, far beyond outdated stereotypes.
• The critical details of Texas and federal anti-hazing laws.
• Lessons learned from major national hazing cases and their direct relevance to Texas students.
• A deep dive into hazing incidents and policies at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University.
• How the national histories of fraternities and sororities impact local chapter liability.
• How a dedicated legal team builds a compelling hazing case, marshaling evidence and pursuing full compensation for damages.
• Practical guides and frequently asked questions for parents, students, and witnesses in Comanche County and beyond.

Remember, this article provides general information. Every hazing case is unique, and we offer confidential, no-obligation consultations to evaluate your specific situation. We serve families throughout Texas, including Comanche County, and are ready to stand with you.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

• In the first 48 hours:

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

• Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Comanche County families just sending their students off to college, the image of hazing might still conjure up old movie stereotypes. But modern hazing is far more insidious, dangerous, and often deeply embedded in groups beyond just fraternities. It’s an evolving problem that leverages technology and psychological manipulation just as much as outdated physical rituals.

Hazing, in plain English, refers to any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by one person or a group, against a student, that:

• Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that 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.

This definition is crucial because it makes it clear that “I agreed to it” is not a defense to the act of hazing. When there’s peer pressure, a power imbalance between new members and veteran members, and the fear of social exclusion, “consent” is not truly voluntary. Hazing is inherently about coercion, manipulation, and control.

Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing manifests in various forms, often escalating in severity. We classify it into three overarching categories:

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing

These acts often emphasize a power imbalance. They may seem “harmless” or like “tradition,” but they create psychological harm and set the stage for more severe hazing.

• Deception or secrecy: Pledges are forced to lie to parents or university officials, fostering an “us versus them” mentality.
• Servitude: Requiring new members to chauffeur older members, clean their rooms, do their laundry, or run errands at any hour.
• Social isolation: Restricting interactions with non-members, or requiring permission to socialize, creating dependence on the group.
• Deprivation of privileges: New members may not be allowed to speak unless spoken to, sit in certain areas, or use specific doors.
• Mandatory events: Requiring attendance at events that conflict with academics, showing group loyalty over personal responsibilities.
• Modern Digital Control:
  • Group chat monitoring: Pledges must respond instantly to group texts, with failure leading to punishment.
  • Geo-location sharing: Forced use of apps like “Find My Friends” or Snapchat Maps for constant tracking.
  • Social media policing: Restricting what new members can post, or forcing them to share organizational content.

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing

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

• Verbal abuse: Yelling, screaming, insulting, or using degrading language.
• Sleep deprivation: Late-night “meetings,” mandatory tasks, or events that deny adequate rest.
• Food/water restriction: Limiting meals, forcing the consumption of unpleasant substances (e.g., spoiled foods, excessive bland ingredients like hot dogs, or highly spicy items).
• Forced physical activity: Repetitive and strenuous exercises, often given as punishment, leading to exhaustion or injury.
• Public humiliation: Making new members perform embarrassing acts in public or wear degrading costumes.
• Exposure: Forcing pledges into uncomfortable conditions, such as foul-smelling areas or being covered with non-harmful but humiliating substances like eggs or condiments.

Tier 3: Violent Hazing

These are dangerous activities with a high potential for severe physical injury, psychological trauma, sexual assault, or even death.

• Forced alcohol/drug consumption: “Lineup” drinking games, chugging large quantities of alcohol, or consuming drugs, often leading to alcohol poisoning. This is the most common cause of hazing deaths.
• Physical assaults: Paddling, beatings, slaps, or punches.
• Dangerous “tests”: Blindfolded tackling drills, “gladiator” fights, or other stunts that risk serious injury.
• Sexualized hazing: Forced nudity, simulated sex acts, or other sexually degrading behaviors.
• Racial/discriminatory hazing: Forced participation in activities that are racist, homophobic, misogynistic, or target specific cultural or religious backgrounds.
• Kidnapping or restraint: Abducting new members, tying them up, or physically confining them.
• Extreme environmental exposure: Leaving pledges exposed to severe weather, or in unsanitary conditions.
• Chemical hazing: Pouring or applying harmful substances on pledges, like cleaners or corrosive liquids.

For Comanche County families, it’s vital to recognize that these behaviors aren’t limited to a few “bad apples.” They can be systemic.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is not confined to stereotypes. While fraternities and sororities continue to face scrutiny, many other groups engage in similar dangerous rituals.

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes social Greek letter organizations across all councils (Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, Multicultural Greek Council).
• Service Organizations & Clubs: Even groups focused on charity or academics can develop hazing cultures, leveraging a desire for “belonging.”
• College Sports Teams: From football and baseball to cheerleading and club sports, athletic hazing remains a pervasive issue, often involving physical abuse, forced substance consumption, and sexualized rituals. The Northwestern University athletic hazing scandal in 2023 is a stark reminder of this.
• Corps of Cadets/ROTC: Groups with a military-style structure often justify hazing as “character building” or “toughening up” new members. The traditions and hierarchy within these groups can be ripe for abuse.
• University Bands & Performing Arts: Even marching bands and drama departments have had documented hazing incidents involving physical and psychological torment.
• Campus Traditions: Spirit groups, honor societies, or other organizations tied to long-standing campus traditions can use their legacy to excuse hazing behaviors. For instance, the University of Texas’s Texas Cowboys has faced hazing allegations that led to suspensions.

Understanding the breadth of where hazing occurs is the first step for Comanche County parents in protecting their children, regardless of their chosen extracurriculars. The culture of secrecy and the desire for belonging make virtually any student organization vulnerable.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Comanche County dealing with the aftermath of hazing, understanding the legal landscape is crucial. Texas has specific laws designed to address hazing, and federal regulations add another layer of protection and accountability.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Under Texas law—which governs cases in Comanche County—hazing is defined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. The law broadly defines hazing as 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.

This definition is powerful because it encompasses both physical and psychological harm, and it makes clear that the intent doesn’t have to be malicious—recklessness (knowing the risk and doing it anyway) is enough. Crucially, as we’ll discuss, consent is not a defense in Texas hazing cases.

Here’s how Texas law addresses hazing:

• Criminal Penalties:

  • Class B Misdemeanor (default): For hazing that doesn’t result in serious injury, perpetrators could face up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
  • Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes an injury requiring medical treatment, the penalties increase.
  • State Jail Felony: If hazing leads to serious bodily injury or death, the penalties are severe, including potential state jail time.
  • Failing to Report: Even those who are members or officers of an organization and know about hazing but fail to report it can face misdemeanor charges.
  • Retaliation: Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

• Organizational Liability:

  • Texas law also allows for the criminal prosecution of organizations (fraternities, sororities, clubs, teams) if they authorized or encouraged the hazing, or if an officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about it and failed to report it.
  • Penalties for organizations can include fines up to $10,000 per violation, and universities can revoke recognition and ban the organization from campus.

• Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting:

  • The law encourages reporting by providing immunity from civil or criminal liability for individuals who report hazing in good faith. Additionally, Texas law, like many university policies, often provides amnesty for students who call 911 in an emergency, even if underage drinking was involved. This aims to ensure that students prioritize safety over fear of getting in trouble.

• Consent Not a Defense:

  • Texas Education Code § 37.155 is explicit: it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the activity. This crucial provision prevents organizations from claiming the victim “agreed to it” to escape accountability.

• Reporting by Educational Institutions:

  • Texas colleges and universities must: provide hazing prevention education, publish clear hazing policies, and publicly report hazing violations and disciplinary actions annually. This transparency, such as that provided by the University of Texas at Austin, is a vital tool for families in Comanche County researching organizations.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

Understanding the distinction between criminal and civil hazing cases is essential for Comanche County families considering their legal options.

• Criminal Cases:

  • These are initiated and pursued by the state (e.g., district attorney’s office in Comanche County, where the incident occurred, or where the university is located).
  • The primary goal of a criminal case is to punish offenders for breaking state laws, with outcomes like jail time, fines, or probation.
  • Common criminal charges arising from hazing can include hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, and, sadly, even manslaughter in fatal cases.

• Civil Cases:

  • These are initiated by the victims of hazing or their surviving family members (plaintiffs), often with the goal of obtaining monetary compensation for the harm suffered and achieving accountability from responsible parties.
  • Civil claims often focus on legal theories such as:
    • Negligence and gross negligence: failure to exercise reasonable care, or acting with extreme disregard for safety.
    • Wrongful death: when hazing causes a fatality.
    • Negligent hiring/supervision: holding institutions accountable for their staff’s or leadership’s failures.
    • Premises liability: if hazing occurred on unsafe property.
    • Intentional infliction of emotional distress: for severe psychological harm.
  • It’s important to note that a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil hazing case. Both types of cases can proceed independently, and often do.

Federal Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations impose additional duties on colleges and universities, adding layers of protection for students, including those from Comanche County.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal law targets transparency and prevention. Colleges and universities receiving federal funds are now required to:

  • Report hazing incidents more thoroughly and transparently.
  • Implement and strengthen hazing education and prevention programs.
  • Maintain and publicly disclose hazing data in annual reports, including the number of violations and disciplinary actions taken. These measures are being phased in, with full compliance expected by around 2026. This means more information will be available to Comanche County families when researching schools and organizations.

• Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility (e.g., forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, homophobic taunts), Title IX obligations are triggered. This requires universities to investigate, take steps to end the discrimination, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects.

• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. Hazing incidents can often overlap with crimes that must be reported under Clery, such as assaults, alcohol-related offenses, and drug violations. This provides another avenue for data collection and transparency regarding campus safety.

The interplay of these state and federal laws means that universities and student organizations in Texas face multiple levels of legal and institutional accountability. For Comanche County families, this complex framework underscores the importance of seeking experienced legal counsel to navigate potential claims.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragic stories of hazing victims nationwide offer invaluable, albeit painful, lessons for families in Comanche County. These cases have not only changed laws but have also exposed patterns of institutional failure and the devastating consequences of hazing culture.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Excessive forced alcohol consumption remains the most common and deadliest form of hazing. Many of these deaths share horrifying similarities:

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Tim Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died after a “bid acceptance” event where he was forced to consume copious amounts of alcohol. Fraternity surveillance cameras captured him falling repeatedly, sustaining severe brain injuries. His fraternity brothers, fearing repercussions, delayed calling 911 for over 12 hours. The aftermath led to numerous criminal charges against 18 fraternity members and major civil litigation. This tragic case spurred Pennsylvania to enact the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law, one of the toughest in the nation, and serves as a stark warning about extreme intoxication, delayed emergency calls, and a pervasive culture of silence.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old Pi Kappa Phi pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” in which pledges were required to consume entire handles of liquor. The incident led to multiple criminal charges and exposed widespread hazing within Greek life at FSU. In response, Florida State temporarily suspended all Greek activities and implemented significant policy reforms, highlighting that such “traditions” are dangerous and predictable.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old LSU freshman from Roswell, Georgia, died after a forced “Bible study” drinking game. During the ritual, pledges were forced to drink heavily whenever they answered questions incorrectly. His blood alcohol content was 0.495% at the time of his death. This tragedy led to immediate criminal charges, including a conviction for negligent homicide. Louisiana subsequently passed the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute, demonstrating how clear proof of hazing and public outrage can directly lead to legislative change.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old Pi Kappa Alpha pledge, was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” pledge night. He died three days later from alcohol poisoning. The incident resulted in criminal convictions for multiple fraternity members, including serious hazing offenses. The Foltz family secured a $10 million settlement in 2023, with $7 million coming from Pi Kappa Alpha national and nearly $3 million from Bowling Green State University. This case illustrates that both national fraternities and universities can face massive financial and reputational consequences for their role in hazing deaths.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Hazing isn’t solely about alcohol; physical abuse and dangerous rituals also contribute to tragic outcomes:

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old Pi Delta Psi pledge, died during a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. He was blindfolded, forced to wear a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled in a brutal ritual known as the “glass ceiling” stunt. The fraternity members then delayed calling for emergency medical help for hours. This landmark case resulted in multiple criminal convictions, and, uniquely, the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, the first national fraternity to face such organizational charges. The fraternity was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years, showing that off-campus retreats and ritualized abuse carry severe legal consequences for organizations.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing extends far beyond Greek life, infiltrating other highly competitive and status-driven campus groups:

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): A shocking scandal erupted at Northwestern when former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program, spanning multiple years. The allegations included forced sexual acts, derogatory language, and physical abuse. This led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern University and the coaching staff, resulting in the firing of long-time head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later filed his own wrongful-termination suit against the university, which was settled confidentially. This case profoundly demonstrates that hazing is a systemic issue affecting major athletic programs, transcending Greek life, and raising critical questions about institutional oversight at the highest levels.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies share common harrowing threads: forced drinking, physical abuse, psychological torment, intentional delays in seeking medical care, and a pervasive culture of secrecy and cover-ups. Hazing happens time and again because these incidents, often dismissed as “tradition” or “horseplay,” are in fact predictable patterns rooted in power dynamics and a desire to belong.

For Comanche County families, these national cases are not distant events. Every instance of multi-million dollar settlements, criminal convictions, and legislative reforms strengthens the accountability framework that protects students in Texas. When hazing occurs at universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, the legal landscape is shaped by these hard-won precedents. Families are not alone in their fight, and the lessons from these national tragedies serve as powerful tools in demanding justice and preventing future harm here in Texas.

Texas Focus: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

For students from Comanche County, these major Texas universities represent dreams and opportunities. However, each campus also carries its own history and ongoing challenges with hazing. When a hazing incident occurs, families need to understand the specific environment, policies, and potential legal pathways at each institution. Whether your child is attending one of these schools or a smaller Texas college, the patterns of hazing and the legal principles remain crucial.

University of Houston (UH)

As a vibrant, large urban campus, the University of Houston serves a diverse student body, attracting many from Comanche County and across Texas. While known for its academic rigor and growing research profile, UH also has an active Greek life and numerous student organizations, which, sadly, have not been immune to hazing issues.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH is a dynamic tier-one research university with a bustling campus life. Its proximity to downtown Houston means students experience both urban opportunities and a traditional university environment. Greek life at UH includes fraternities and sororities from various councils, offering a rich social scene that many students seek to join. Beyond Greek life, sports clubs and student organizations are popular avenues for engagement. The University of Houston System overall is committed to student safety, yet the sheer size and diverse nature of campus life present ongoing challenges in monitoring student group behavior.

Hazing Policy & Reporting

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy outlined in its Student Handbook. This policy explicitly prohibits hazing on or off-campus and includes acts such as forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and any behavior causing mental distress as a condition of membership. Students and faculty are mandated to report hazing through official channels, which include the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). Transparency efforts by UH also include posting information about hazing on its website, including disciplinary actions against student organizations.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UH has unfortunately seen its share of hazing incidents. In 2016, a particularly severe incident involving Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) resulted in a pledge suffering a lacerated spleen after allegedly being slammed onto a table during a multi-day hazing event that involved sleep, food, and water deprivation. This led to criminal misdemeanor hazing charges and a university suspension for the chapter. Attorney911 is currently representing Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi, and several individuals following severe hazing allegations in late 2025. Bermudez, a fall 2025 pledge, suffered acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis after experiencing prolonged physical exertion and degrading rituals, including forced consumption of substances until vomiting, being sprayed with a hose “like waterboarding,” and being forced to carry a humiliating fanny pack. The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter was suspended by UH on November 6, 2025, and subsequently voted to surrender its charter just days later on November 14. This latest case highlights the firm’s direct involvement in active hazing litigation at UH, demonstrating that even with strong policies, severe incidents can and do occur, requiring aggressive legal action.

How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For families in Comanche County whose child attends UH, a hazing incident could involve investigations by the UHPD, the Houston Police Department (HPD) if the incident occurs off-campus within city limits, and the Office of Student Conduct. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in Harris County courts, where Houston is located. Potential defendants in such a case could include the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the University of Houston itself or its Board of Regents, depending on the specifics of the alleged negligence and institutional knowledge. Property owners where off-campus hazing occurred may also be implicated.

What UH Students & Parents Should Do

• Report promptly: Utilize UH’s reporting channels via the Dean of Students, UHPD, or online forms, but consult an attorney first.
• Document relentlessly: Keep detailed records, screenshots of communications, and photos of injuries.
• Seek medical attention: For any physical or mental health concerns, ensure your child gets professional care and clearly states the cause of injuries (e.g., “hazing”).
• Contact an experienced hazing attorney in Houston: An attorney familiar with Houston-based hazing cases can efficiently navigate the local legal system, investigate prior UH discipline, and understand the nuances of the university’s response. Attorney911, located in Houston, is uniquely positioned to handle these complex matters.

Texas A&M University

A beacon of tradition and pride, Texas A&M University in College Station attracts countless students from Comanche County and every corner of Texas. Its unique culture, from the iconic Corps of Cadets to its robust Greek life, shapes the student experience. However, beneath the surface of camaraderie, A&M has also grappled with serious hazing allegations.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M is renowned for its traditions, loyal alumni network, and, of course, the Corps of Cadets—a highly structured, military-style program that fosters leadership but has historically faced hazing scrutiny. Greek life is also prominent, with many fraternities and sororities contributing to the campus’s social fabric. The “Aggie Spirit” is strong, creating an intense sense of belonging that, in some groups, has unfortunately translated into coercive “initiation” practices.

Hazing Policy & Reporting

Texas A&M unequivocally prohibits hazing, stating it contradicts the university’s core values. Their policy defines hazing broadly, covering mental and physical endangerment required for group affiliation. Reporting channels include the Office of Student Conduct, the University Police Department (UPD), and various confidential reporting hotlines. A&M also publishes a list of student organization conduct allegations, offering some transparency into violations, including hazing.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Hazing at Texas A&M spans both Greek life and the Corps of Cadets:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) (around 2021): This case brought national attention when pledges allegedly suffered severe chemical burns after being covered in a mixture that included industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit during a hazing ritual. The chapter was suspended, and the deeply disturbing incident led to a lawsuit.
• Corps of Cadets (2023): A lawsuit filed by a former cadet revealed deeply disturbing allegations of degrading hazing within the Corps, including forced simulated sexual acts and being bound in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The university stated it addressed the matter through its disciplinary processes, but the civil litigation brought the internal culture to light.
• Texas A&M’s prior history with SAE is also significant, with a documented hazing death in 1997 involving Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Brian T. Sanders died after an alcohol-related incident. In 1984, Corps of Cadets member Bruce Dean Goodrich died from heatstroke during strenuous exercises, leading to charges against members.
  These repeat incidents, spanning decades and different types of organizations, underscore the ongoing struggle against hazing at A&M.

How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Comanche County residents, a hazing incident at Texas A&M would initiate investigations involving the UPD and potentially the College Station Police Department if off-campus. Civil suits are typically heard in Brazos County courts. The unique nature of “Corps Privilege” and deeply ingrained traditions can pose challenges, but experienced counsel understands how to navigate these. Potential defendants would include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and potentially the university and specific Corps or university officials.

What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

• Be vigilant about traditions: Understand the difference between healthy traditions and hazing disguised as bonding, particularly within the Corps of Cadets.
• Document, document, document: This is crucial for any hazing claim, especially given the institutional nature of A&M.
• Utilize confidential reporting: A&M offers several ways to report anonymously, which can be an important first step.
• Consult an attorney with experience in A&M cases: Attorneys familiar with both Greek life and Corps culture, like Attorney911, understand the specific dynamics and legal precedents involved at Texas A&M.

University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The flagship public university of Texas, UT Austin, draws students from Comanche County with its renowned academic programs and vibrant capital city location. While its “Hook ‘Em Horns” spirit is legendary, the university also maintains a public record of dealing with hazing, offering valuable, if sometimes troubling, insights.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin boasts one of the largest Greek life systems in Texas, alongside a multitude of highly competitive student organizations, club sports, and spirit groups. Its location in Austin, a dynamic and diverse city, contributes to a rich, often high-pressure, social environment. The university prides itself on its traditions, but some of these, particularly those involving initiation rituals, have been sources of hazing allegations over the years.

Hazing Policy & Reporting

The University of Texas at Austin has an explicit, zero-tolerance policy against hazing, applicable to all registered student organizations and individual students, regardless of where the hazing occurs. UT’s policy aligns with Texas law, broadly defining prohibited acts. Importantly, UT maintains a publicly accessible Hazing Report website (hazing.utexas.edu) that lists student organizations found responsible for hazing violations, the nature of the conduct, and the sanctions imposed. This detailed public log is a powerful, transparent tool for current and prospective students, and their families from Comanche County. Students can report incidents directly to the Dean of Students, the UT Police Department (UTPD), or use anonymous online reporting forms.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT’s public registry provides numerous examples of documented hazing:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members were allegedly directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, actions clearly falling under UT’s hazing definition. The chapter faced probation and was mandated to implement new hazing prevention education.
• Texas Cowboys (2018): This high-profile spirit organization, historically involved in hazing traditions, was suspended following incidents that included sleep deprivation and alcohol-related activities leading to a vehicle accident that killed a new member. The UT hazing report explicitly details “newmen directed into a vehicle collision while sleep deprived” as a violation. In 1995, the Texas Cowboys were also involved in the death of Gabriel Higgins, who drowned in the Colorado River after participating in drinking games during an initiation party. This long history highlights recurring issues within some long-standing UT traditions.
• Other entries on UT’s public report include: various fraternities and sororities sanctioned for forced workouts, coerced alcohol consumption, or degrading rituals; instances of “blindfolded abduction” and forcing new members to act as servants. The recurrence of these violations, despite policy, underlines the persistent challenge of hazing culture.

How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases originating from UT Austin would involve investigations by UTPD and/or Austin Police, with civil litigation typically handled by Travis County courts. The existence of UT’s public Hazing Report is a significant advantage for plaintiffs, as it can establish a history of similar violations and the university’s prior knowledge or potential negligence. This public record can strongly support arguments of foreseeability and a “pattern of behavior” in civil lawsuits. Defendants would include individuals, the organizational chapter, the national organization, and potentially the university and relevant administrators.

What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

• Review the UT Hazing Report: Comanche County families can proactively check the hazing.utexas.edu website to research any organization of interest to their child.
• Use reporting mechanisms thoughtfully: While UT’s reporting systems are publicly documented, consulting with an attorney first can help strategize the best way to report to protect your child’s rights and evidence.
• Gather digital evidence: Given the widespread digital communication among students, securing screenshots of group chats, photos, and videos is paramount.
• Seek specialized legal counsel: An attorney experienced in hazing litigation knows how to leverage UT’s public records and navigate the specific dynamics of its campus environment to build a strong case. Attorney911 understands the intricacies of Texas hazing law and institutional accountability.

Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Located in Dallas, Southern Methodist University is a private institution known for its strong academic programs, competitive athletics, and vibrant social scene, particularly a highly influential Greek life. Students from Comanche County seeking a prestigious private education often consider SMU, and it’s essential for their families to be aware of the specific challenges posed by hazing at this institution.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU’s campus culture is shaped by its private university status, which often fosters close-knit communities, but can also contribute to insular social dynamics within its Greek organizations. A significant portion of the student body participates in fraternities and sororities, making Greek life a central component of campus social activities. This environment, while offering strong alumni connections and social opportunities, has historically faced hazing allegations that highlight the pressures within competitive social spheres.

Hazing Policy & Reporting

Southern Methodist University maintains a clear and comprehensive anti-hazing policy. Their policy strictly prohibits any practice that subjects new members to physical or mental discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule for the purpose of initiation or membership. SMU’s Student Code of Conduct emphasizes a zero-tolerance stance. Students and concerned parties can report hazing via the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, or directly to the SMU Police Department. SMU has also implemented anonymous reporting systems, reflecting a commitment to encouraging individuals to come forward safely.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

While SMU does not maintain a publicly accessible hazing report in the same detailed manner as UT Austin, various incidents have become public over the years:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): This fraternity faced significant disciplinary action following allegations of severe hazing that reportedly included members being paddled, forced to drink excessive alcohol, and deprived of sleep. The SMU chapter was suspended for an extended period, leading to restrictions on its recruiting activities and a period of rebuilding.
• Other Greek organizations have also faced various sanctions, ranging from probation to suspension, for violations involving alcohol misuse, physical harassment, and other forms of inappropriate new member activities. These incidents often underscore the challenges of changing deeply entrenched “traditions” within long-standing campus groups. The private nature of SMU’s governance means that internal investigation details and disciplinary outcomes are often less publicly accessible than at state universities, emphasizing the importance of legal discovery in such cases.

How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Comanche County families, a hazing incident at SMU could lead to investigations by the SMU Police Department and/or the Dallas Police Department if the incident occurs off-campus within Dallas city limits. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in Dallas County courts. As a private institution, SMU generally has fewer sovereign immunity protections than public universities. This means that pursuing claims directly against the university itself, in addition to individual perpetrators and organizational chapters/nationals, may be a more direct legal path. An experienced hazing attorney knows how to navigate SMU’s internal disciplinary processes while simultaneously building a robust civil case through legal discovery to uncover relevant records.

What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

• Understand the social pressures: Be aware that the strong social scene and Greek life at SMU can create intense pressure to conform, which hazers often exploit.
• Utilize confidential reporting: Encourage confidential reporting through SMU’s systems if direct action seems too risky initially.
• Do not rely solely on university investigations: While SMU will conduct its own inquiry, an independent legal investigation is often necessary to uncover all facts and secure accountability.
• Contact an attorney experienced with private university cases: An attorney that understands the legal nuances of private institutions, including their potential liability and how to compel disclosure of internal records, is invaluable. Attorney911 works with families across Texas, including those connected to SMU, to pursue justice.

Baylor University

Located in Waco, Baylor University is Texas’s oldest continuously operating university, deeply rooted in its Baptist Christian heritage. It attracts many students from Comanche County and across the state seeking an education within a faith-based environment. Despite its strong values, Baylor has encountered its own set of challenges, including hazing incidents, often linked to the intense social dynamics of university life.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor fosters a strong sense of community, often appealing to students who value its Christian mission and traditions. While Greek life exists, it operates within a framework that emphasizes alignment with the university’s religious values. However, like any large university, Baylor has numerous student organizations, athletic teams, and social clubs that can become environments where unhealthy power dynamics lead to hazing, despite official prohibitions. The university has faced national scrutiny in the past regarding institutional oversight in other areas (specifically, football and Title IX issues), which informs how hazing cases may be perceived and handled.

Hazing Policy & Reporting

Baylor University has a clear, unequivocal anti-hazing policy. Its Code of Conduct explicitly prohibits any activity that could be construed as hazing, emphasizing that it is inconsistent with Christian values and university policy. This includes physical or psychological harm or humiliation associated with initiation or membership in any student organization. Baylor’s policy stresses adherence to Texas anti-hazing laws. The university encourages reporting through the Office of Student Conduct, the Baylor Police Department (BUPD), and offers confidential reporting mechanisms to protect individuals who come forward.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor’s history, while distinct due to its private and religious nature, includes notable hazing incidents:

• Baylor Baseball Team Hazing (2020): Following an internal investigation, Baylor suspended 14 members of its baseball team for hazing violations. The suspensions were staggered across the season to ensure compliance and highlight the university’s commitment to addressing such behavior, even within prominent athletic programs. While specific details of the hazing were less widely publicized, the significant number of suspensions indicated a pattern of unacceptable conduct.
• Baylor’s broader challenges with institutional oversight, particularly related to its football program and Title IX investigations in the mid-2010s, have placed the university under intense scrutiny regarding how it handles student misconduct and safety. This history, while not directly hazing-related, affects the public perception and legal framework around any claims of institutional negligence at Baylor. It underscores that any claims made by Comanche County families will be considered against a backdrop of ongoing concerns about accountability. In 1967, the Baylor Chamber of Commerce, a social club, was involved in the death of John E. Clifton from physical hazing during an eating ritual.

How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Comanche County families, a hazing incident at Baylor would typically involve investigations by BUPD and/or Waco Police Department. Civil litigation would proceed in McLennan County courts. As a private institution, Baylor, like SMU, generally does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it a more direct target for negligence claims compared to state-funded universities. The university’s strong institutional identity and the desire to protect its reputation often mean that internal investigations are thorough, but they may also be insular. An experienced hazing attorney would need to carefully navigate these internal processes while building a powerful civil claim, demanding full transparency and accountability from the university and the involved organizations.

What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

• Understand the “no-hazing” culture: Despite Baylor’s faith-based mission, students face social pressures; hazing can occur in the guise of “tradition” or “bonding.”
• Focus on safety: Emphasize to students that their physical and emotional well-being should always override group loyalty.
• Maintain detailed records: Documenting any communication, suspicious requests, or injuries is vital.
• Seek external legal advice immediately: Given Baylor’s unique institutional context, early engagement with a legal team experienced in private university hazing can ensure that all legal avenues are explored and that your family’s rights are fully protected. Attorney911 is prepared to assist families in Comanche County and beyond with hazing cases at Baylor University.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

For students from Comanche County joining Greek life at any Texas university, the local chapter is just one piece of a much larger, nationally organized puzzle. The national organization behind the Greek letters, with its own history, policies, and pattern of events across the country, plays a critical role in accountability when hazing occurs.

Why National Histories Matter

Most fraternities and sororities active at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor are chapters of national (or international) organizations. These national bodies often boast hundreds of chapters across the country and a centralized leadership structure. They are also, almost without exception, involved in hazing litigation nationwide.

• Policy vs. Practice: National HQs typically have extensive anti-hazing policies and risk management programs. These policies, however, often exist precisely because the national organization has a history of hazing incidents, injuries, and deaths at its various chapters.
• Foreseeability: When a local Texas chapter, belonging to a national organization, repeats the same pattern of hazing (e.g., forced alcohol consumption, physical abuse, sleep deprivation) that has led to injuries or deaths at other chapters of that same national organization elsewhere in the country, it demonstrates foreseeability. The national organization often knew or should have known about the dangers of such activities but failed to prevent them effectively. This is a powerful argument in civil litigation.
• Financial Depth: National organizations typically carry significant insurance policies, making them crucial targets in settlement negotiations and judgments. Their assets far outstrip those of individual students or local, unincorporated chapters.

By examining the national context, we can demonstrate a pattern of neglect or insufficient oversight that contributes to local incidents, strengthening a plaintiff’s case significantly.

Organization Mapping in Texas

While specific local chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor may have unique histories, their national affiliations often reveal a broader pattern. Here are some of the national fraternities and sororities that have been present on these Texas campuses and have documented hazing incidents nationally:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike): Present at Texas A&M. Nationally, Pike has faced multiple high-profile hazing deaths, including Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University (2021), who died from forced alcohol consumption. The pattern of “Big/Little” drinking nights and the national organization’s response (or lack thereof) to prior incidents become crucial.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): With chapters at Texas A&M and UT Austin, SAE has been dubbed “America’s Deadliest Fraternity” by Bloomberg News. Nationally, SAE has faced numerous hazing-related deaths and severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury lawsuit at the University of Alabama (filed 2023) and chemical burns at Texas A&M (2021) after pledges were doused with industrial cleaner.
• Phi Delta Theta: Present at Texas A&M and UT Austin. Nationally, Phi Delta Theta is linked to the tragic death of Max Gruver at Louisiana State University (2017), who died from forced alcohol consumption during a “Bible study” hazing ritual.
• Pi Kappa Phi: Active at the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi is currently facing a $10 million lawsuit from Attorney911 over the severe hazing of Leonel Bermudez. Nationally, Pi Kappa Phi is associated with the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017) due to alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night.”
• Kappa Alpha Order: With a presence at SMU, Kappa Alpha Order (KA) has faced hazing incidents across the country leading to suspensions. This includes the SMU chapter in 2017 with allegations of paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation. Nationally, KA has a documented death in 1987 at the University of Arkansas.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Active on various Texas campuses. Nationally, Kappa Sigma is tragically linked to the drowning death of Chad Meredith at the University of Miami (2001), which resulted in a $12.6 million verdict. There have also been allegations of hazing leading to rhabdomyolysis at Texas A&M (2023).

This is not an exhaustive list but highlights how closely intertwined local chapter conduct is with national organizational patterns. For Comanche County families concerned about hazing, understanding these national histories provides critical foresight.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The documented national histories of these organizations are not just cautionary tales; they are powerful tools in legal strategy.

• Proving Foreseeability: When a national organization has a history of deaths or severe injuries stemming from a particular type of hazing (e.g., alcohol consumption during “Big/Little” events), it becomes difficult for them to claim they “couldn’t have foreseen” a similar incident at a local Texas chapter. This prior notice strengthens arguments for negligence against the national entity.
• Challenging “Rogue Chapter” Defenses: National organizations often attempt to distance themselves, claiming local chapters acted outside policy. However, a history of similar violations across multiple chapters can demonstrate a systemic failure of oversight, enforcement, or cultural problems that permitted hazing to persist, rendering the “rogue chapter” defense weak.
• Impacting Insurance Coverage: Knowledge of national trends and repeated incidents affects how insurance companies assess risk and whether they cover claims. An experienced hazing attorney knows how to challenge insurance providers who try to deny coverage by demonstrating systemic issues.
• Influencing Settlement and Punitive Damages: When a national organization has a pattern of ignoring hazing or failing to enforce policies, it increases their exposure to significant settlements and even punitive damages, which are designed to punish egregious conduct and deter future harm.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Bringing a hazing lawsuit in Texas involves meticulous investigation and a deep understanding of legal strategy. For Comanche County families, the process can seem daunting, but with experienced legal counsel, a strong case can be built from the ground up.

Evidence: The Cornerstones of a Hazing Case

Modern hazing cases are often won or lost based on the quality and comprehensiveness of the evidence collected. Since hazing thrives in secrecy, gathering irrefutable proof is paramount.

• Digital Communications: In 2025, virtually all hazing is planned, executed, and documented through digital channels. This makes them the #1 source of evidence:

  • GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram DMs: These platforms are goldmines for showing planning, coercion, who was present, what was said, and evidence of cover-ups. We encourage anyone affected to immediately screenshot everything with timestamps and usernames visible, and save it securely. If messages are disappearing (e.g., Snapchat’s vanishing messages), screen-record them if safe to do so. Attorney911’s video “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) offers vital tips on how to effectively capture this evidence.
  • Emails: Official communications from chapters or national organizations, academic alerts, or direct instructions exchanged via email.

• Photos & Videos: These are irrefutable.

  • Content filmed by members: Often, perpetrators themselves unwittingly create evidence, documenting events they later deny. This includes photos or videos shared in group chats or posted on social media.
  • Security Camera/Ring Footage: Video from private residences, campus buildings, or public areas where hazing took place can show presence, activities, and injuries.
  • Injuries: High-quality photos of visible injuries, taken immediately after the incident and then again over several days to show bruising progression, are critical. Always include a reference for scale.

• Internal Organization Documents: These can reveal official policies versus actual practices.

  • Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” lists: These often contain euphemistic descriptions of hazing that, when cross-referenced with witness testimony, expose the reality.
  • Communications: Emails or texts between local chapter officers and national representatives can show awareness or prior authorization of problematic activities.

• University Records: Public and private universities create a paper trail that can be used in litigation.

  • Prior Conduct Files: Records of past hazing violations, probations, or suspensions against the same organization. UT Austin’s public Hazing Report is an excellent example.
  • Campus Police Reports: Incident reports, even if not directly hazing-related, can show a pattern of problematic behavior by an organization.
  • Clery Act Reports: These annual security reports can highlight general safety issues or patterns of alcohol/drug violations connected to specific groups.
  • FOIA/Public Records Requests: For public universities, the Freedom of Information Act can compel disclosure of internal documents related to hazing investigations.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These detail the extent of the victim’s suffering.

  • Emergency Room/Hospital Records: Document physical injuries, alcohol poisoning, drug reactions, and initial medical assessments. Always ensure the medical provider knows the injuries resulted from hazing.
  • Specialist Notes: Records from neurologists, orthopedists, physical therapists, and especially psychologists or psychiatrists for PTSD, depression, and anxiety diagnoses are critical.

• Witness Testimony: The human element, often the hardest to obtain due to fear of retaliation, but incredibly powerful.

  • Other pledges or former members: Those who have experienced or observed hazing can provide firsthand accounts.
  • Roommates, friends, RAs: Individuals who observed changes in the victim’s behavior or physical state.
  • Experts: Medical, psychological, and even Greek life experts can provide context and opinion on the foreseeability and impact of hazing.

Attorney911 has extensive experience working with digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages, medical professionals to interpret complex injuries, and investigators to identify critical witnesses. We understand that evidence disappears rapidly, which is why immediate action is crucial.

Damages: Recovering What Was Lost

Monetary compensation in a hazing lawsuit aims to restore the victim to the position they would have been in had the hazing not occurred, as much as possible. This includes both quantifiable financial losses and the often-deeper impact on a person’s life.

• Medical Expenses & Future Care:

  • Past Medical: All bills related to emergency care, ambulance transport, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, and therapeutic interventions.
  • Future Medical: Projected costs for ongoing physical therapy, trauma-informed psychological counseling, medication management, and, in severe cases, a “life care plan” for permanent disabilities (such as in cases of traumatic brain injury or rhabdomyolysis leading to organ damage). These can amount to millions over a lifetime.

• Lost Earnings & Educational Impact:

  • Lost Wages: Income lost by the student (or parents) due to time spent recovering or caring for the injured.
  • Educational Setbacks: Costs of missed tuition, lost scholarships, delayed graduation, and the long-term economic impact of a delayed career start.
  • Diminished Earning Capacity: If injuries (physical or psychological, like severe PTSD) permanently affect the student’s ability to work or pursue their chosen career path, an economist can calculate future lost income.

• Non-Economic Damages: These are often the largest component of personal injury and wrongful death awards, compensating for intangible suffering.

  • Physical Pain & Suffering: Compensation for the actual physical pain endured from injuries.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: This includes the profound impact of trauma, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, humiliation, and loss of dignity. Expert psychological testimony helps quantify this.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: The inability to participate in activities, hobbies, or social engagements that once brought joy, or the general diminishment of life’s quality due to the hazing.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): In the most tragic hazing cases, such as those involving alcohol poisoning or physical assault leading to death, families in Comanche County can pursue:

  • Funeral and burial expenses.
  • Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided to their family.
  • Loss of companionship, love, and society experienced by parents, siblings, and, if applicable, a spouse or children.
  • Grief and emotional suffering endured by the surviving family members due to the traumatic loss.

• Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious negligence, reckless disregard for safety, or malicious conduct, punitive damages may be sought. These are designed not to compensate the victim, but to punish the defendants and deter similar behavior in the future. In Texas, their availability is governed by specific statutory caps, but they can be significant where prior warnings were ignored or there was a systemic failure.

Strategy: Targeting All Responsible Parties

Hazing cases are complex because they often involve multiple layers of responsibility. Our strategy involves identifying and pursuing all potentially liable parties:

• Individual Perpetrators: The students directly involved in the hazing.
• Local Chapter: The student organization itself, which may be an unincorporated association or a registered entity.
• National Organization: The larger, parent fraternity or sorority, particularly if a pattern of similar hazing incidents across their network can be established.
• University: The educational institution, especially if it had knowledge of previous hazing, failed to adequately supervise, enforce policies, or fulfill its duty of care.
• Third Parties: Property owners (landlords, Airbnb hosts) where hazing occurred, or alcohol providers (bars, stores) if their negligence contributed to the incident.

A key aspect of strategy involves navigating the complex world of insurance. National fraternities and universities carry significant insurance policies. Early in a case, insurers may try to deny coverage, arguing that hazing falls under “intentional acts” exclusions. However, our expertise, particularly that of Lupe Peña, who previously defended insurance companies, allows us to effectively counter these tactics. We focus on establishing negligent supervision or a pattern of organizational failures that may trigger coverage.

Attorney911’s Advantage: Insurance Insight and Complex Litigation Experience

Understanding how insurance companies think, what their policies actually cover, and what tactics they employ to minimize payouts is paramount. Lupe Peña, with her background as a former insurance defense attorney, offers an invaluable insider’s perspective. She knows the strategies and loopholes that defense lawyers and insurance adjusters exploit. This insight, combined with Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience taking on formidable opponents in complex litigation—including his involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation—means Attorney911 is uniquely equipped to handle the institutional power of national fraternities, universities, and their insurers. We are not intimidated, and we build cases designed to maximize accountability and compensation.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For Parents in Comanche County

Parenting a college student in Comanche County means often having to trust that institutions and organizations will keep your children safe. Hazing shatters that trust. Knowing the warning signs and how to respond is critical.

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

• Unexplained Injuries: Look for bruises, cuts, or burns they can’t adequately explain, or repeated “accidents.”
• Extreme Exhaustion: Constant fatigue, sleep deprivation, or falling asleep frequently outside of normal study.
• Mood Changes: Sudden anxiety, depression, irritability, withdrawal from family or old friends.
• Secrecy: Refusal to discuss activities, using phrases like “It’s a secret” or “I can’t talk about it.”
• Constant Phone Use: Anxiety when their phone rings, or obsessive checking of group chats, especially late at night.
• Academic Decline: A sudden drop in grades, missed classes, or prioritizing group activities over schoolwork.
• Financial Requests: Unexplained demands for money, or unusual purchases for older members.

How to Talk to Your Child

• Listen without judgment: Create a safe space for them to speak. Avoid anger or immediate threats to pull them out of school.
• Emphasize safety: Reassure them that your priority is their well-being, not their membership in an organization.
• Normalize their feelings: Let them know it’s okay to feel uncomfortable, humiliated, or afraid.
• Ask direct, open-ended questions: “How are things going in [organization name]?” “Are you ever asked to do anything that makes you uncomfortable?” “Would you do this if you had a true choice?”

If Your Child is Hurt

1. Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize their health. Go to the Emergency Room or a doctor immediately. Ensure medical providers know how the injuries occurred (e.g., “from a hazing incident”).
2. Document Everything:
   • Photos: Take clear, timestamped photos of any injuries from multiple angles, and continue to photograph over several days.
   • Notes: Write down everything your child tells you: dates, times, locations, names of those involved, specific actions, what was said.
   • Screenshots: If your child shows you any digital messages (texts, group chats), immediately screenshot them with dates, times, and senders visible.
3. Preserve Evidence: Do not let your child delete anything, even if it seems embarrassing. These digital footprints are often the most crucial evidence.

Dealing with the University

• Document every interaction with university officials, including names, dates, and what was discussed.
• Before making official statements or signing any documents, consult with an attorney experienced in hazing cases. The university’s internal investigation and your family’s legal pursuit are separate processes and should not conflict.

When to Talk to a Lawyer

If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you believe the university or organization is minimizing the incident, it is time to contact an attorney. An attorney can help you preserve evidence, understand your legal options, and navigate the complex procedures involved in seeking justice.

For Students / Pledges in Comanche County

If you’re a student from Comanche County, away at college across Texas, know that your safety and well-being are paramount.

Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Decision Guide

Ask yourself:

• Danger/Humiliation: Am I being forced to do something that puts my mental or physical health at risk, or makes me feel humiliated?
• Secrecy: Am I being told to keep secrets from my parents, the university, or law enforcement?
• Coercion: Would I do this if there were no negative consequences for saying “no” (like being blackballed from the group)?
• Fairness: Are older members doing these things alongside me, or is it only directed at new members?

If the answer to any of these is “yes,” it’s likely hazing. Remember, Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing.

Exiting and Reporting Safely

• Immediate Danger: If you are unsafe, call 911 immediately. Your well-being is more important than group loyalty. Texas law (and most university policies) has good-faith reporter protection, meaning you won’t be punished for seeking help in an emergency.
• Quitting: You have the right to leave any organization at any time. You can inform the chapter president or new member educator of your decision to resign in writing (email or text is fine). You do not have to give a reason, nor should you feel pressured to attend any “exit interviews” where you might be intimidated.
• Reporting: You can report hazing anonymously through campus hotlines, the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE), or directly to the Dean of Students office.

Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty

Many schools and Texas law offer good-faith protections for students who report hazing or call for medical assistance in an emergency. This means that if you call 911 for an intoxicated friend, you generally won’t face disciplinary action for underage drinking yourself. Your health and the safety of others always come first.

For Former Members / Witnesses

If you are a former member or a witness to hazing in Comanche County or any Texas college setting, your testimony can be invaluable in preventing future tragedies.

• Your Role: You may hold critical information and evidence (screenshots, photos, personal accounts) that can verify hazing and hold perpetrators accountable.
• Your Protection: Many reporting mechanisms, both on campus and through external hotlines, allow for anonymous reporting. If you become a witness in a civil lawsuit, your attorney can work to protect you from retaliation and address any personal legal exposure you might face (for instance, if you were a minor actor in a hazing incident).
• Seek Counsel: If you’re a former member with concerns about personal liability, speaking with an attorney confidentially can clarify your rights and options. Your testimony can provide crucial insights into the organization’s culture and practices.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Comanche County families confronting a hazing incident, immediate and informed action is crucial. Attorney911’s video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) details common errors that can severely jeopardize a hazing claim. Avoid these critical missteps:

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

   • Why it’s wrong: Digital evidence, especially group chats, is often the most powerful proof. Deleting it makes a case much harder to prove and can be legally problematic.
   • What to do instead: Immediately screenshot and save every piece of relevant digital communication, regardless of how embarrassing it might seem. Back it up to multiple secure locations.

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly:

   • Why it’s wrong: Direct confrontation will alert the organization, leading to immediate destruction of evidence, coaching of witnesses, and preparation of defenses.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in secret, then contact an attorney before any direct communication with the perpetrators or their organization.

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms Without Legal Review:

   • Why it’s wrong: Universities may pressure families into signing waivers or internal resolution agreements that could inadvertently waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit for full compensation.
   • What to do instead: Never sign any document from the university or an insurance company without a hazing attorney reviewing it first.

4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Consulting a Lawyer:

   • Why it’s wrong: Public posts can compromise your case by creating inconsistencies, making your child’s statements discoverable by the defense, and waiving certain legal protections.
   • What to do instead: Document privately. Your attorney will advise on the best way to control public messaging.

5. Letting Your Child Return to “One Last Meeting” with the Organization:

   • Why it’s wrong: This is an opportunity for perpetrators to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements used against your child.
   • What to do instead: Once legal action is being considered, all communication should go through your attorney.

6. Waiting to “See How the University Handles It”:

   • Why it’s wrong: University investigations are for internal discipline, not necessarily designed to secure full legal compensation for your family. Evidence degrades, memories fade, and the statute of limitations continues to run.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence immediately and consult a lawyer. The university process and your legal options are separate.

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer:

   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters represent the interests of the at-fault party and will try to get recorded statements or offers that undermine your claim.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with them and refer them to your attorney.

Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) often claim sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, in cases involving Title IX violations, or when suing individual university employees in their personal capacities. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) typically have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts – contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. Under Texas law, hazing is generally a Class B misdemeanor. However, it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who are members or officers of an organization and fail to report hazing can also face misdemeanor charges.

• “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. Legal precedent and psychological understanding recognize that so-called “consent” given under duress, peer pressure, the desire to belong, or threat of social exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, hazing lawsuits in Texas are subject to a two-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death. However, this period can sometimes be extended under the “discovery rule” if the harm or its cause was not immediately apparent, or in cases involving fraudulent concealment. Time is a critical factor – evidence disappears, memories fade, and organizational records are lost. It is always best to call 1-888-ATTY-911 as soon as possible. Our video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c), further explains this.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of the hazing does not automatically eliminate liability. Many significant hazing cases, including deaths and severe injuries, have occurred at off-campus residences, Airbnbs, or private retreats. Universities and national organizations can still be held liable based on their sponsorship of the group, their knowledge of problematic patterns, and the foreseeability of hazing occurring off-campus.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Confidentiality is a significant concern for many families. While some high-profile hazing cases become public, most are resolved through confidential settlements before a public trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy and work to minimize media exposure while still pursuing full accountability. We will discuss strategies for managing publicity and confidentiality during your consultation.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in Comanche County faces the devastating impact of hazing, you need legal representation that goes beyond general personal injury. You need attorneys who understand the intricate web of university regulations, national organizational structures, and the fiercely protective instincts of powerful institutions. At The Manginello Law Firm, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, we bring a unique blend of empathy, strategic insight, and battle-tested experience to every hazing case.

We understand that hazing cases are not just about legal documents; they are deeply personal, often involving young lives, shattered dreams, and profound emotional trauma. Our goal is not just to secure compensation, but to ensure accountability that prevents future tragedies.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases?

From our Houston office, we serve families across Texas, including Comanche County, bringing a competitive edge that few firms can match:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Lupe Peña, one of our key attorneys, previously defended large insurance carriers for a national firm. She knows their tactics inside and out—their delay strategies, their arguments for denying coverage, and how they undervalue claims. This invaluable insider knowledge allows us to anticipate their moves, counter their arguments, and fiercely advocate for maximum compensation for our clients. We know their playbook because we used to run it. Her profile at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/ details her extensive background.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, is a seasoned trial attorney with over 25 years of experience. His career highlights include being one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation—a complex, multi-party legal battle against a billion-dollar energy giant. This experience means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, major universities, or their well-funded defense teams. We have successfully taken on formidable opponents and are ready to fight for your family. His full credentials are available at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience: Hazing too often results in wrongful death or catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injury, acute kidney failure, and rhabdomyolysis. Our firm has a proven track record of securing multi-million dollar results for families facing such devastating losses. We understand how to work with medical experts, life care planners, and economists to meticulously calculate future care costs and lost earning potential, ensuring your family receives comprehensive compensation. Our Wrongful Death Claim Lawyer page (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/) provides more details.

• Dual Civil & Criminal Expertise: Hazing is often a crime in Texas. Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives our firm a unique advantage. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation, allowing us to advise clients on both fronts with integrated strategies for justice and accountability. Our Criminal Defense Lawyers page (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) explains this further.

• Unparalleled Investigative Depth: We leave no stone unturned. Our team works with leading digital forensics experts to recover deleted group chats and social media evidence, subpoena national fraternity records for prior incidents, and compel universities to release internal files through discovery or public records requests. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does. Attorney911’s YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm) offers valuable resources, including our video “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs).

We balance the need for accountability with the sensitivity required for cases involving young victims and profound trauma. We know how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments operate, and, crucially, how to dismantle their defenses. We understand the specific culture of Texas universities and will work tirelessly to get you answers. Our video, “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc), explains our commitment to working on your behalf without upfront costs. You can also learn how to avoid common mistakes that can impact your case by watching “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY).

Call to Action for Comanche County Families

If you or your child has been affected by hazing at any Texas campus – from the University of Houston to Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other institution – you don’t have to face this alone. Families in Comanche County and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers, accountability, and justice. The window to act can be narrow, as “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c) explains.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to your story, explain your legal options under Texas law, and help you decide the best path forward for your family.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

• We will listen to your experience without judgment.
• We will review any evidence you’ve collected.
• We will explain your legal options for criminal reporting, civil lawsuits, or both.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and potential outcomes.
• We will answer all your questions about our contingency fee structure – meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; take the time you need to decide.
• Everything you share with us is fully confidential.

Contact Attorney911 – The Legal Emergency Lawyers™ Today:

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781 (For immediate emergencies)
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com

Hablamos Español: Contact Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

Whether you’re in Comanche County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you have an advocate in Attorney911. Call us today for the legal guidance you need during this difficult time.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com