When Traditions Go Wrong: A Texas Hazing Guide for Concho County Families

The crisp autumn air hung heavy with nervous excitement on the campus green. Freshmen, eager to belong, lined up for what they were told was a “traditional welcome ceremony.” But as the night wore on, the “fun” turned chilling. Pressured to consume far too much alcohol, endure humiliating chants, and engage in strenuous physical challenges, one student stumbled, then collapsed, his body convulsing on the damp ground. Panic rippled through the onlookers, cameras flashing, but no one dared call for help, fearing “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.” The student, barely conscious, felt trapped, caught between a desperate need for acceptance and a terrifying realization that his life might be on the line.

This isn’t just a scene from a movie; it’s a scenario that tragically plays out at campuses across Texas every year. While Concho County itself may be a peaceful, rural community focusing on agriculture and local life, families here send their children to universities across our great state—schools like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor. When these young adults leave the familiar safety of Eden or Paint Rock and head to college, they enter new environments where the pursuit of belonging can sometimes lead to dangerous and illegal hazing practices. The fear, physical pain, and psychological trauma inflicted by hazing don’t just affect students on campus; they ripple back to families right here in Concho County, leaving lasting scars.

This comprehensive guide is designed for families in Concho County and across Texas who need to understand the stark realities of hazing today. We will explore:

• What modern hazing truly looks like, far beyond the old stereotypes.
• The critical legal framework in Texas and how federal laws also apply.
• Lessons learned from major national hazing cases and their relevance to Texas families.
• Specific instances and patterns of hazing at prominent Texas universities, including the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor.
• The crucial legal options available to victims and their families.

While this article provides general information, it is not specific legal advice. Every hazing incident is unique, and we encourage you to contact an experienced hazing attorney for a confidential evaluation of your specific situation. The Manginello Law Firm serves families throughout Texas, including our neighbors in Concho County.

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 Concho County families unfamiliar with modern Greek life or collegiate organizations, the image of hazing might be stuck in decades past—a silly prank, some light-hearted teasing. The reality in 2025 is far graver. Hazing is a dangerous and often criminal behavior that can have devastating, lifelong consequences, including severe physical injury, psychological trauma, and even death. It’s no longer about harmless fun; it’s often about power, control, and secrecy, escalating to outright abuse.

Hazing is 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.
  It is a forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. Emphatically, “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there is peer pressure and power imbalance, particularly for young adults eager to belong. The law recognizes that true consent cannot be given under duress.

Main Categories of Hazing

Understanding the different forms hazing takes is crucial for students and parents alike:

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is, tragically, the most common and often deadliest form of hazing.

• Forced or coerced drinking: New members are pressured to consume large quantities of alcohol in short periods.
• Chugging challenges, “lineups,” or games that require rapid consumption of hard liquor or beer.
• Being pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances, sometimes to the point of blacking out or dangerously high blood alcohol levels.
• Forcing pledges to get so drunk that they vomit, and then making them participate in demanding physical tasks (as was alleged in the Leonel Bermudez case at the University of Houston).

2. Physical Hazing: This category involves direct bodily harm or extreme physical duress.

• Paddling and beatings: New members are hit with hands, paddles, or other objects.
• Extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond normal athletic conditioning, often to the point of exhaustion or collapse. Allegations in the Bermudez case included 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single session.
• Sleep deprivation (often combined with other hazing activities) and forced wake-up calls at odd hours to perform tasks.
• Food/water deprivation, or forced consumption of unusual or repulsive substances (e.g., rotten food, hot sauce, or large quantities of milk until vomiting). The Bermudez lawsuit cited forced consumption until vomiting.
• Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments, forcing new members into uncomfortable conditions or leaving them exposed.

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts cause severe psychological and emotional trauma, often with long-term consequences.

• Forced nudity or partial nudity, or being made to wear degrading costumes.
• Simulated sexual acts, including “roasted pig” or “elephant walk” positions, or other sexually degrading behaviors.
• Acts with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones, including the use of slurs or forced role-playing of stereotypes.
• Being forced to carry humiliating items, such as the “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms, a sex toy, and nicotine devices described in the Bermudez lawsuit.

4. Psychological Hazing: This type of hazing aims to break down an individual’s self-esteem and sense of identity.

• Verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, and social isolation from non-group members.
• Manipulation or forced confessions, leading to emotional distress and feelings of helplessness.
• Public shaming on social media, in meetings, or in campus spaces.

5. Digital/Online Hazing: With the rise of technology, hazing has found new, insidious avenues.

• Group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Discord.
• Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos of themselves or others.
• Constant digital surveillance, requiring immediate responses to messages at all hours, imposing extreme anxiety.
• Geo-location tracking apps might be demanded by the organization.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

It’s a common misconception that hazing is limited to “frat boys.” While fraternities and sororities (including Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and multicultural organizations) are frequently associated with hazing incidents, the reality is much broader:

• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / military-style groups: These organizations, particularly known in Texas at universities like Texas A&M, often have intense “traditions” that cross into hazing territory, featuring highly strenuous physical demands and psychological pressure.
• Spirit squads (cheerleading, dance teams) and tradition clubs (such as the Texas Cowboys at UT Austin or various “spirit” organizations).
• Athletic teams at all levels, including football, basketball, baseball, track and field, volleyball, and more.
• Marching bands and performing arts groups, where the pressure to conform and endure “initiation” can be just as intense.
• Even some service, cultural, and academic organizations can fall prey to hazing by adopting abusive “initiation rituals.”

The common thread across all these groups is often a dangerous combination of social status, tradition, and secrecy, which allows these practices to persist even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal and potentially fatal.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing in Texas is crucial for Concho County families seeking justice and accountability. Hazing is not just a university policy violation; it’s a serious crime under Texas law, with civil liability that can result in substantial compensation for victims and their families.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Under Texas law—which governs cases in Concho County and throughout the state—hazing is explicitly defined and prohibited within the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F.

• Hazing is defined 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; OR
  • Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.
• Key points about the Texas definition:
  • Location doesn’t matter: Hazing is illegal whether it occurs on campus property, at an off-campus house, or at a remote retreat.
  • Harm can be physical or mental: This includes injuries, illness, extreme fatigue, humiliation, terror, or severe emotional distress.
  • Reckless acts are covered: The person doesn’t have to intend to cause harm, only to engage in acts they knew or should have known were dangerous.
  • “Consent” is not a defense: As we will discuss further, even if a student participates “willingly,” Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to prosecution for hazing. This is vital because the power dynamics of initiation make true consent virtually impossible.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing:

• Class B Misdemeanor (default): This is the baseline charge for hazing that doesn’t result in serious injury, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes bodily injury that requires medical treatment, the charge elevates to a Class A misdemeanor. This could mean up to a year in jail and/or a $4,000 fine.
• State Jail Felony: Critically, if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, the offense becomes a state jail felony, carrying a punishment of 180 days to two years in state jail facility and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
• Additional criminal provisions:
  • Failing to report hazing: Any student holding an office in an organization or a faculty/staff member who knows of hazing and fails to report it can face misdemeanor charges.
  • Retaliation: Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

Organizational Liability:

• Beyond individuals, organizations themselves can be criminally prosecuted. A fraternity, sorority, club, or team can face criminal charges if it:
  • Authorized or encouraged the hazing activity; OR
  • An officer or member acting in their official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it.
• The criminal penalty for an organization is a fine of up to $10,000 per violation. Universities can also revoke recognition and permanently ban the organization from campus.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, families in Concho County can sometimes see two separate legal paths unfold:

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (through local district attorneys or county prosecutors) against individuals or organizations. The primary goal of a criminal case is to punish the wrongdoers for breaking the law. Punishments can include fines, probation, or jail time. Criminal cases focus on proving guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
• Civil Cases: These are brought by the victims (or their surviving family members in cases of wrongful death) against individuals, organizations, and other responsible parties. The primary goal of a civil case is to provide monetary compensation to the victim for their injuries, losses, and suffering, and to hold those responsible financially accountable. Civil cases operate under a lower burden of proof, requiring proof by a “preponderance of the evidence.”

It’s important to understand that these two types of cases can, and often do, coexist. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for succeeding in a civil lawsuit. For example, individuals might be acquitted in a criminal trial but still found liable in a civil court for the same conduct.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also play a role, particularly at institutions receiving federal funding:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant piece of legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal funds must:
  • Maintain publicly available records of all hazing violations and disciplinary actions.
  • Provide comprehensive hazing education and prevention programs.
  • These requirements are being phased in and will be fully transparent by approximately 2026. This means Concho County families will have even greater access to information about hazing incidents at the schools their children attend.
• Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a sexually hostile environment, Title IX obligations are triggered. Universities must investigate such allegations promptly and take steps to prevent recurrence.
• 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. While not directly a hazing law, hazing incidents often overlap with categories such as assault, liquor law violations, or drug law violations, which must be reported under Clery.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

In a civil hazing lawsuit, a skilled hazing attorney works to identify every party that bears responsibility for the harm caused. The goal is to cast a wide net to ensure comprehensive accountability and maximize the potential for recovery for your family.

• Individual Students: These are the members or pledges who actively participated in, organized, or facilitated the hazing acts. This can include those who coerced participation, supplied alcohol, or failed to intervene when someone was in danger. As seen in the Daylen Dunson case (Bowling Green State), individual officers can face massive personal liability, not just the organization.
• Local Chapter / Organization: The fraternity/sorority, club, team, or other student organization itself can be liable. If the organization is formally recognized, it exists as a legal entity and can be sued. Liability often hinges on the organization’s culture, whether leadership encouraged the behavior, or if they failed to supervise their members.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: For organizations that are part of a national system, the national headquarters can be a key defendant. These national bodies often develop policies, provide training, receive dues, and have the authority to suspend or revoke local chapter charters. Their liability often stems from:
  • Failure to enforce their own anti-hazing policies.
  • Failure to adequately train local chapters.
  • Failure to intervene despite a history of past hazing incidents (known as “foreseeability” or “prior notice”).
• University or Governing Board: While public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin) benefit from sovereign immunity, there are critical exceptions. Cases can proceed against universities for:
  • Gross negligence or willful misconduct.
  • Deliberate indifference to known hazing risks.
  • Failure to address Title IX violations (if applicable).
  • Negligent supervision of student organizations.
  • Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: Depending on the specifics of the incident, other parties might bear responsibility:
  • Property Owners/Landlords: If the hazing occurred at a rented property (e.g., an off-campus house where hazing was known or should have been known to occur).
  • Alcohol Providers: Bars, liquor stores, or even individuals who illegally furnished alcohol to minors if that contributed to the hazing.
  • Security Companies or Event Organizers: If their negligence contributed to an unsafe environment.

Every hazing case is fact-specific, and the potential defendants can vary widely. An experienced hazing attorney understands how to meticulously investigate, identify all potential liable parties, and build a comprehensive case for accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

Hazing is a problem that transcends state lines and university campuses. Learning from major national cases helps Concho County families understand the persistent patterns of hazing, its devastating consequences, and the legal precedents that can apply to incidents right here in Texas. These anchor stories highlight critical themes: the dangers of forced alcohol consumption, the severe impact of physical and ritualized abuse, and the increasing focus on institutional accountability.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most common and lethal form of hazing involves forced or excessive alcohol consumption. These cases often share tragic similarities: young individuals eager to belong, extreme pressure to drink, and a delayed or outright denied call for emergency medical help.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In one of the most publicized hazing cases in recent history, 19-year-old Piazza died after falling repeatedly and suffering traumatic brain injuries during an alcohol-fueled “bid acceptance” night. Surveillance cameras captured fraternity members delaying calling 911 for nearly 12 hours, attempting to cover up their actions. Dozens of criminal charges were filed against members, and the case led to significant civil litigation. More importantly, it spurred the passage of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, setting a powerful precedent for legislative change. This case dramatically exposed the deadly combination of extreme intoxication, delay in seeking aid, and a pervasive culture of silence and cover-up.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event where pledges were allegedly given handles of hard liquor and forced to finish them. Multiple fraternity members were prosecuted, with most pleading guilty to misdemeanor hazing. The incident led to FSU temporarily suspending all Greek life and implementing widespread policy changes. Coffey’s death is a stark reminder of how “traditional” drinking nights have become a predictable script for tragedy.
• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Gruver, 18, died after a “Bible study” drinking game where pledges were forced to drink heavily for incorrect answers. His blood alcohol content was 0.495% at the time of death. Criminal convictions followed, and Louisiana passed the Max Gruver Act, elevating hazing to a felony when it results in serious injury or death. This case powerfully demonstrated how legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing’s lethal consequences. The family received a $6.1 million verdict, showcasing the significant financial accountability.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Foltz, 20, died from alcohol poisoning after allegedly being forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” night. Multiple fraternity members were convicted of hazing-related crimes. The Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement, with a significant portion coming from the national Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and approximately $3 million from Bowling Green State University. This case emphasized that both the national organization and the university can face massive financial and reputational consequences. Notably, the court ordered individual officer Daylen Dunson to personally pay $6.5 million to the Foltz family, underscoring that individual members also face massive personal liability.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and psychologically brutal hazing remains a serious threat, often masked as “tradition.”

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Deng, 19, died after a brutal “glass ceiling” ritual during a fraternity retreat in Pennsylvania, where he was blindfolded, forced to wear a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled by members. His assailants delayed calling 911 for over an hour. This landmark case resulted in multiple criminal convictions, and the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. This incident tragically illustrates how hazing at off-campus retreats, far from university oversight, can be just as deadly as on-campus incidents.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing isn’t confined to Greek life. Intercollegiate athletics, with their intense team bonding and hierarchies, can also become breeding grounds for dangerous hazing.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): A massive scandal erupted when former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. This led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern and its coaching staff, the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later settled a wrongful-termination suit confidentially), and deep introspection about institutional complicity. This investigation highlighted that hazing often extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs, raising serious questions about leadership and institutional oversight.

What These Cases Mean for Concho County Families in Texas

These anchor cases, and many others across the nation, reveal critical common threads:

• Foreseeable Risks: Forced drinking, brutal physical abuse, and humiliation are recurring patterns with documented consequences. National organizations and universities often have prior knowledge of these risks within their systems.
• Catastrophic Outcomes: The direct results are often alcohol poisoning, severe injury (including traumatic brain injury, rhabdomyolysis, and permanent disability), or death.
• Delayed Care and Cover-ups: A pervasive culture of silence, fear of repercussions, and active attempts to destroy evidence or mislead authorities frequently worsen outcomes and compound legal liability.
• Accountability is Possible: These cases demonstrate that with determined legal action, victims and their families can achieve significant accountability, including criminal convictions, multi-million-dollar civil settlements, and crucial policy reforms.

For Concho County families whose children attend or plan to attend Texas universities, these national lessons underscore that hazing is a serious, systemic problem. The precedents established in these cases can be directly applied to build strong legal arguments in hazing lawsuits here in Texas, compelling institutions and organizations to take responsibility for the safety of our students.

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

For Concho County families, understanding the hazing landscape at prominent Texas universities is critically important. Many young adults from Eden, Paint Rock, and other Concho County communities venture to these institutions for higher education. What happens there directly impacts our local families. While Concho County itself may not host a major university, the experiences at these schools can shape the lives of our students.

We’ll examine some of Texas’s largest and most influential universities, focusing on their policies, past incidents, and how a hazing case might proceed at each—with particular attention to the University of Houston, given Attorney911’s ongoing litigation there.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston is a sprawling, diverse urban campus in the heart of our state’s largest city, just a few hours’ drive from Concho County. Many Concho County families choose the University of Houston for its academic programs and vibrant city life. However, even in this dynamic environment, the risks of hazing are present.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH is a Tier One research university serving over 47,000 students, offering a wide array of academic programs. It boasts an active Greek life with a mix of Interfraternity Council (IFC), Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and Panhellenic Council (PHA) organizations. Beyond Greek life, UH offers numerous student clubs, athletic teams, and spirit groups, all of which are susceptible to hazing if left unchecked.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a comprehensive anti-hazing policy, explicitly prohibiting any act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, admission, affiliation, or continued membership in an organization. This policy applies both on and off campus. UH outlines reporting channels through the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). Like many universities, UH states it has a “zero-tolerance” policy for hazing.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

The University of Houston has faced significant hazing-related challenges, including highly publicized incidents that demonstrate severe harm and a distressing pattern of behavior:

• Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston / Pi Kappa Phi ($10M lawsuit, 2025): This ongoing lawsuit, handled by Attorney911, highlights the horrific realities of modern hazing. Leonel Bermudez, a UH transfer student, pledged Pi Kappa Phi in late 2025. The lawsuit alleges he endured severe physical and psychological abuse, including:

  • Being required to carry a “pledge fanny pack” with degrading contents like condoms, a sex toy, and nicotine devices, with threats of punishment for non-compliance.
  • Forced “study/work” blocks lasting hours and weekly interviews under threat of expulsion.
  • Extreme physical exercises, such as 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single session, leaving him unable to stand.
  • Hazing at off-campus locations, including Yellowstone Boulevard Park in Houston, forcing new members to participate in sprints, bear crawls, and wheelbarrow races. Another key location was a private residence on Culmore Drive.
  • Being sprayed with a hose in a manner “similar to waterboarding” and threats of actual waterboarding.
  • Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate strenuous activities. This was done to such an extent that “his urine was brown,” a clear sign of severe muscle breakdown.
  • Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure, leading to a four-day hospitalization and ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.
  • The Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters suspended the Beta Nu chapter on November 6, 2025, and the chapter voted to surrender its charter on November 14, 2025.
  • The lawsuit, filed against 13 individual fraternity leaders, the Pi Kappa Phi national organization, its housing corporation, the University of Houston, and the UH System Board of Regents, seeks over $10 million in damages. As Attorney911’s Ralph Manginello stated, “His urine was brown… We’re almost in 2026. This has to stop.” Lupe Peña added, “If this prevents harm to another person…Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” (Sources: Click2Houston: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/, ABC13: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/, Hoodline: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/)

• 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha Case: In a prior incident, a UH Pi Kappa Alpha pledge allegedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table during a multi-day event marked by food/sleep deprivation. This incident also resulted in misdemeanor hazing charges and university suspension, showcasing a pattern of physical harm within Greek life at UH prior to the Bermudez lawsuit.

These incidents underscore that hazing at UH can escalate to life-threatening levels and necessitate robust legal intervention.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Concho County families, a hazing incident at UH would typically involve the Houston Police Department (HPD) if it occurred off-campus or UHPD if on-campus. Civil litigation would proceed in Harris County civil courts. Potential defendants would include the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially the University of Houston itself. Navigating these entities requires a specialized understanding of both criminal and civil law, as well as the unique challenges of public university litigation in Texas.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

• Report Immediately: Utilize UH’s official reporting channels through the Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, or UHPD. If a crime has occurred, contact HPD.
• Document Everything: As exemplified by Attorney911’s success in the Bermudez case, detailed documentation, including screenshots of group chats, photos of injuries, and medical records, is paramount. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving this critical information.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Given the complexity and severity of hazing at UH, contacting a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases, particularly those familiar with dealing with institutional defendants like UH, is critical. Ralph Manginello’s background in complex litigation, including the BP Texas City explosion litigation, and Lupe Peña’s experience as a former insurance defense attorney provide an unparalleled advantage in these unique cases.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, a beloved institution for many Concho County families, is known for its deep-seated traditions and highly organized student body, including a strong Greek life and the revered Corps of Cadets. While these traditions foster loyalty, they also create environments where hazing can unfortunately take root. Texas A&M is located a few hours east of Concho County.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M boasts one of the largest student bodies and the largest uniformed student body in the nation, the Corps of Cadets. Greek life is also prominent, alongside numerous other student organizations. The university’s emphasis on tradition and loyalty can sometimes be misapplied into practices that harm students.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M has a clear anti-hazing policy aligned with Texas state law, prohibiting any acts that endanger mental or physical health for initiation into an organization. This policy applies to student organizations, the Corps of Cadets, and athletic teams. Students can report hazing to the Dean of Students Office, the Student Conduct Office, or the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD).

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has seen a range of hazing incidents, some of which have resulted in severe injury and scrutiny:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021): In a disturbing incident, two SAE pledges alleged they were subjected to ritualized abuse where industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit were poured on them during a forced strenuous activity. This caused severe chemical burns that required skin graft surgeries. The pledges pursued a $1 million lawsuit against the fraternity, which was subsequently suspended by the university for two years.
• Corps of Cadets Hazing Allegations (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing within the Corps, including forced simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit, seeking over $1 million, highlighted the potential for severe physical and psychological abuse within the Corps’ highly structured environment.
• Phi Gamma Delta (2018): Joseph Little, an A&M student, collapsed and died during pledging activities that the university later determined to be hazing. This incident occurred in the same chapter where Trey Walker tragically died in 1997, highlighting a distressing pattern of repeat offenses within the organization.

These incidents demonstrate that the unique cultural components of Texas A&M, while fostering strong community, also necessitate vigilant oversight to prevent hazing disguised as tradition.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

Civil lawsuits involving Texas A&M would generally be filed in Brazos County civil courts. As a public university, Texas A&M benefits from sovereign immunity under Texas law. However, exceptions for gross negligence or Title IX violations might allow a case to proceed directly against the university. For Concho County families, pursuing a case against a large public institution like Texas A&M requires legal expertise that understands these complex legal shields and how to navigate them.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

• Report Through Official Channels: Utilize the Dean of Students orUPD for formal reports.
• Document and Record: All forms of evidence, from digital communications to physical injuries, are crucial.
• Seek Experienced Legal Counsel: Given Texas A&M’s size and the unique legal protections for public universities, specialized legal advice is paramount for Concho County families. Attorney911’s experience with complex institutional litigation can be invaluable here.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The flagship institution of the Texas university system, the University of Texas at Austin, draws many students from Concho County and across the state. Known for its academic rigor and vibrant campus life, UT Austin also actively confronts hazing within its numerous student organizations. UT Austin is located west of Concho County, approximately a three-hour drive.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is one of the largest universities in the country, with a thriving Greek life, a storied athletic program, and hundreds of student organizations. The university strives to balance tradition with student safety, but hazing remains a persistent challenge across various groups.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UT Austin adheres strictly to Texas state anti-hazing laws and has its own robust, frequently updated policy. Crucially, UT is recognized for its transparency, maintaining a publicly accessible Hazing Violations page (often found via hazing.utexas.edu) that lists organizations, dates of incidents, specific conduct violations, and imposed sanctions. Reporting channels include the Office of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity, UTPD, and various anonymous reporting options.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public database offers insight into ongoing hazing issues:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): This fraternity was sanctioned after new members were directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, deemed hazing. The chapter faced probation and was required to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): An Australian exchange student alleged severe assault by fraternity members, resulting in a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, a fractured tibia, and a broken nose. This prompted a lawsuit seeking over $1 million. The chapter was already under university suspension for prior hazing and safety violations, highlighting a pattern of misconduct.
• Texas Cowboys (2018 & 1995): This long-standing spirit organization has a history of hazing. In 1995, Gabriel Higgins drowned in the Colorado River after a hazing incident involving drinking games. In 2018, the parents of an incoming member alleged sleep deprivation caused by hazing was a factor in their son’s fatal car accident, though the university initially ruled against a direct hazing link to the vehicle event itself, the organization was later disciplined for its hazing culture.

UT’s public record of violations is a powerful tool for Concho County families, offering direct evidence of hazing issues at a specific chapter or organization.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

Civil lawsuits stemming from incidents at UT Austin would typically be filed in Travis County civil courts. Like Texas A&M, UT Austin is a public university and enjoys sovereign immunity, though exceptions for gross negligence or Title IX violations may apply. The availability of UT’s public hazing records can be a significant advantage for plaintiffs, demonstrating a history of misconduct and the university’s knowledge of internal issues.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

• Utilize Public Records: Concho County families can review UT’s Hazing Violations page to research organizations their child might join.
• Comprehensive Documentation: Preserve all evidence related to hazing.
• Consult Legal Experts: An attorney skilled in Texas public university litigation, such as Attorney911, can leverage public records and navigate immunity defenses effectively.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a private institution in Dallas, is located further north from Concho County. It attracts students from affluent backgrounds across Texas, including some from Concho County, and is known for its strong Greek presence and high social engagement.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is a private university with a significant Greek life that plays a central role in campus social dynamics. Its campus culture, while prioritizing academic excellence and community engagement, has also struggled with hazing in certain organizations.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU strictly prohibits hazing, defining it in alignment with Texas law. Students and parents can report hazing through the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, or via anonymous reporting systems like SMU’s Real Response portal. As a private institution, SMU’s internal disciplinary records are generally not publicly available, making external investigations more critical.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

While SMU does not maintain a public list of hazing violations like UT Austin, incidents have come to light:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): This fraternity faced severe disciplinary action, including suspension, after allegations of new members being actively paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and deprived of sleep. The chapter was inactive for several years, with strict conditions placed on its potential return.
• Sigma Chi (Undisclosed Date): Though specific details are confidential due to SMU’s private status, Sigma Chi was reportedly disciplined in a civil settlement for alleged hazing over several semesters.

These cases, though not detailed publicly by SMU, underscore that hazing is a recurring problem, and private institutions are not immune from legal accountability.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

Civil lawsuits against SMU and its student organizations would be filed in Dallas County civil courts. As a private institution, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially easier for plaintiffs to sue the university directly for negligence. However, private university hazing cases often involve more confidential internal processes and powerful defense lawyers, necessitating experienced legal representation.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

• Investigate Independently: Since SMU’s disciplinary records are private, Concho County families should look for news reports or reach out to alumni/former members for insights into an organization’s history.
• Preserve Evidence: All digital and physical evidence is critical.
• Seek Private Legal Counsel: Attorney911 can help uncover private institutional records and navigate the specific challenges of suing a private university like SMU.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Baptist university in Waco, is another significant destination for Texas students, including those from Concho County, located to the north-east. Baylor’s strong religious identity influences its campus culture and its approach to student conduct, including hazing.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor emphasizes community, faith, and academic excellence within a values-driven framework. It hosts a number of fraternities and sororities, numerous campus ministries, and competitive athletic programs. The university’s commitment to its mission means its policies are often stringent regarding student behavior, including hazing.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University rigorously prohibits hazing, defining it in accordance with Texas law. This policy extends to all student organizations, athletic teams, and campus groups, whether on or off campus. Reporting mechanisms include the Vice President for Student Life, the Department of Student Activities, and the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD).

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor has faced scrutiny over student welfare issues, most notably a widespread sexual assault scandal that revealed systemic failures in addressing student misconduct and protecting victims. This context informs how hazing allegations are handled:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): An investigation led to the suspension of 14 baseball players for hazing offenses. The details, while not fully public, indicated behavior that violated university policy, resulting in staggered suspensions that impacted the team’s season. This shows hazing extends beyond Greek life into athletic programs and how the university disciplines its athletes.
• Football Program Discipline (Prior Incidents): While details are confidential, the broader cultural issues highlighted in Baylor’s sexual assault scandal have sometimes revealed underlying problems with power dynamics in all student groups, including instances that could constitute hazing.

Baylor’s experiences demonstrate the challenges even faith-based institutions face in fully eradicating hazing.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

Civil lawsuits involving Baylor University and its student organizations would typically be filed in McLennan County civil courts. As a private university, Baylor does not possess sovereign immunity. However, given its robust legal team and history of defending against high-profile lawsuits, pursuing a hazing case against Baylor requires experienced and determined legal counsel. The strategies involved would include thorough discovery to access internal investigations and communications, which are not publicly disclosed.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

• Understand Baylor’s Context: Concho County families should be aware of Baylor’s history of challenges with student conduct and institutional accountability.
• Report Through Designated Channels: Utilize Baylor’s official reporting systems.
• Secure Legal Representation: For any serious hazing incident at Baylor, a lawyer’s assistance is crucial to navigate the university’s internal processes and private legal defenses.

5.6 Texas Overview for Concho County Families

Whether their children choose to attend the bustling University of Houston, the tradition-rich Texas A&M, the transparent UT Austin, the socially prominent SMU, or the values-driven Baylor, Concho County families should know that hazing is a statewide issue. While policies vary and transparency differs between public and private institutions, the underlying legal principles remain the same: hazing is illegal, dangerous, and carries severe consequences for individuals and organizations. Access to experienced legal counsel is often the most critical factor in achieving justice.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

For Concho County families seeking to understand hazing, it’s crucial to connect the actions of local chapters at Texas universities to the broader histories of their national organizations. While a specific chapter might claim an incident is isolated, national fraternities and sororities have often faced repeated hazing allegations, lawsuits, and even deaths across many campuses. This established pattern forms a powerful legal argument for foreseeability.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

When a hazing incident occurs at a Texas university, involving a local chapter of a national fraternity or sorority, our experienced hazing lawyers don’t just look at what happened locally. We investigate the national organization’s history. Why?

• Foreseeability: National headquarters often implement extensive anti-hazing policies, training, and risk management guidelines precisely because they are aware of the recurring dangers. If a local chapter engages in a form of hazing that has led to injury or death at another chapter in the past, the national organization can argue it simply “had no idea.” However, a lawyer can show that they should have known because similar incidents had occurred in their system before.
• Pattern Evidence: Repeated incidents across different campuses, but within the same national organization, demonstrate a systemic problem. This pattern can be used to argue that the national organization was negligent in its oversight, training, or enforcement of its own policies.
• Influence on Local Chapters: National organizations often provide the framework, leadership, and even some funding for local chapters. They are expected to monitor and control their chapters’ activities. When hazing occurs, it raises questions about the effectiveness of their policies and their commitment to enforcement.

6.2 Organization Mapping: From Texas Campuses to National Patterns

Here’s an overview of prominent Greek organizations at Texas universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, along with their national histories of hazing. This is not an exhaustive list, but highlights organizations that have faced significant scrutiny.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike):

  • Known to have chapters at major Texas universities, including the University of Houston, University of Texas at Austin, and Texas A&M.
  • National History: Pi Kappa Alpha has a tragic national history with alcohol-related hazing deaths. A prominent example is the Stone Foltz case at Bowling Green State University in 2021, where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning after an initiation event. This case resulted in criminal convictions and a $10 million settlement with the national fraternity and university. Another critical case involved David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University in 2012, who also died from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event, leading to a $14 million settlement.
  • Relevance: The repeated pattern of alcohol-related hazing leading to death demonstrates that national Pi Kappa Alpha has been on clear notice of these dangers for years, potentially impacting their liability in Texas cases.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE):

  • Chapters are prevalent at Texas universities, including Texas A&M, University of Texas at Austin, and the University of Houston.
  • National History: SAE has faced immense scrutiny due to multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide, often linked to alcohol.
    • The national organization made headlines in 2014 by ending traditional pledging due to its “True Gentleman Experience” and numerous incidents.
    • At Texas A&M in 2021, two pledges suffered severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries after being subjected to a ritual involving industrial-strength cleaner, eggs, and spit, leading to a $1 million lawsuit. This incident led to the fraternity’s suspension.
    • At the University of Texas at Austin in January 2024, an exchange student alleged assault by members at a party, resulting in severe injuries, dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose, prompting a lawsuit for over $1 million.
    • The Carson Starkey case at Cal Poly in 2008 involved an 18-year-old pledge who died from alcohol poisoning during initiation. His family received a confidential but substantial settlement and founded the anti-hazing organization “Aware Awake Alive.”
  • Relevance: SAE’s long history of hazing, both nationally and specifically in Texas, demonstrates a clear pattern that supports arguments of foreseeability and negligent oversight.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

  • Found at Texas institutions like Baylor University and the University of Texas at Austin.
  • National History: The national organization faced major consequences after the Maxwell “Max” Gruver hazing death at Louisiana State University in 2017. Gruver died from alcohol poisoning after a “Bible study” drinking game. The case led to criminal convictions and the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana.
  • Relevance: This high-profile incident serves as a national warning to all Phi Delta Theta chapters, emphasizing the severe risks of coercive drinking games.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

  • Has a presence at Texas universities, including the University of Houston, where Attorney911 is actively litigating the Leonel Bermudez case.
  • National History: Pi Kappa Phi is associated with the tragic Andrew Coffey hazing death at Florida State University in 2017, also due to acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night.”
  • Relevance: The national organization’s history with alcohol-related hazing, coupled with recent allegations at the University of Houston, underscores a critical pattern of risk that must be addressed.

• Kappa Alpha Order (KA):

  • Chapters are found at many Texas schools, including Texas A&M and Southern Methodist University.
  • National History: Kappa Alpha Order has faced numerous hazing accusations and disciplinary actions spanning decades. For example, the SMU chapter was suspended in 2017 after allegations of paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation.
  • Relevance: The recurrence of hazing allegations at different chapters indicates a persistent challenge for the national organization in ensuring member safety.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ):

  • Foundational chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, and the University of Houston.
  • National History: Sigma Chi has faced significant legal action. In 2024, at the College of Charleston, a pledge alleged physical beatings, forced consumption of drugs/alcohol, and psychological torment. The family received more than $10 million in damages, one of the largest known hazing settlements. A pledge at the University of Texas at Arlington was also hospitalized with alcohol poisoning in 2020.
  • Relevance: The multi-million dollar recovery in South Carolina sets a high bar for accountability and reinforces the serious consequences for hazing, with direct implications for Texas chapters.

• Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ):

  • This historically Black fraternity has chapters at many Texas universities, including Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern.
  • National History: Omega Psi Phi has faced allegations of physical hazing involving paddling and beatings. For example, in April 2023, a former student at the University of Southern Mississippi alleged severe hazing, including beatings with a wooden paddle during “Hell Night,” requiring emergency surgery and months of rehabilitation. A federal lawsuit was filed against the university and the Nu Eta chapter.
  • Relevance: The widespread allegations of physical hazing highlight a persistent issue within certain NPHC organizations, demanding attention and accountability at Texas chapters.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

For Concho County families, understanding these national histories profoundly impacts legal strategy:

• Demonstrating Foreseeability: When Attorney911 undertakes a hazing case, we can demonstrate to a jury or judge that a national organization, such as Pi Kappa Alpha or SAE, was on notice about the dangers of certain rituals because a similar incident already occurred at another chapter. The defense can’t claim “we had no idea.”
• Supporting Negligence Claims: A pattern of ignored warnings or minimal sanctions for repeat offenses can be used to argue that the national organization or university was grossly negligent in supervising its chapters, contributing directly to the harm.
• Influencing Settlement and Verdicts: Evidence of prior incidents and a national organization’s failure to enforce policies can significantly increase settlement leverage and the potential for larger verdicts, including punitive damages designed to punish and deter.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Building a compelling hazing case requires meticulous investigation, a deep understanding of complex legal frameworks, and the ability to fight against powerful institutional defendants. For Concho County families navigating the aftermath of hazing, knowing what evidence matters and how damages are calculated can be empowering. At Attorney911, we approach hazing cases with the same rigor and strategic vision as we do our toughest complex litigation, ensuring no stone is left unturned.

7.1 Evidence: The Foundation of a Strong Case

In hazing litigation, evidence is paramount. It’s what transforms allegations into undeniable facts. Importantly, much of the most critical evidence today is digital. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides crucial tips for victims.

• Digital Communications (The New Gold Standard):

  • Group Chats and DMs: Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Snapchat, and Instagram often become virtual hazing grounds. They contain direct evidence of planning, intent, coercion, and even the hazing itself. Our team meticulously analyzes these. Crucially, digital forensics can often recover deleted messages, but original screenshots are always best.
  • Social Media Posts: Photos, videos, and comments from Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) can quickly disappear. We work to preserve and analyze this data, identifying patterns, timelines, and admissions of guilt, even if disguised as “jokes.”
  • Emails and Texts: Official communications from chapter leaders, clandestine texts between members, and emails with national or university officials all provide pieces of the puzzle.

• Photos & Videos:

  • Injuries: Immediate, clear, and dated photographs of all injuries (bruises, burns, lacerations) are vital. We advise taking photos from multiple angles, with a ruler or coin for scale, and documenting their progression over several days.
  • Hazing Events: Any footage captured during the actual hazing (by participants or witnesses) is invaluable. This includes video of forced activities, excessive drinking, or humiliating rituals.
  • Locations: Documenting the site of the hazing, whether a fraternity house, off-campus residence, park, or remote retreat.

• Internal Organization Documents:

  • Pledge Manuals/Initiation Scripts: These reveal the “traditional” activities new members are expected to endure.
  • Chapter By-Laws/Constitutions: These can highlight discrepancies between official rules and actual practice.
  • Communication with National: Internal emails or memos between the local chapter and national headquarters, particularly regarding prior incidents or risk management compliance.

• University Records:

  • Prior Conduct Files: Crucial in demonstrating a history of hazing allegations, probation, or sanctions against the specific chapter, another organization, or even individuals. In Texas, public universities like UT Austin publish these records (e.g., hazing.utexas.edu).
  • Campus Police Reports: Incident reports related to the organization or individuals involved.
  • Clery Act Reports: Annual crime statistics that may include alcohol violations, assaults, or other incidents related to hazing.
  • Records of Complaints/Reports: Documentation of any past complaints to the Dean of Students, Student Conduct Office, or Title IX coordinator that were not adequately addressed.

• Medical and Psychological Records:

  • Emergency Room/Hospital Records: Detailed accounts of injuries, diagnostic tests, treatment, and medical prognoses. This includes blood alcohol content, toxicology reports, and specific diagnoses like rhabdomyolysis or traumatic brain injury.
  • Therapeutic and Psychiatric Records: For cases involving severe emotional distress, PTSD, anxiety, or depression, records from therapists or psychiatrists document the psychological harm suffered.

• Witness Testimony:

  • Other Pledges/New Members: Often the most powerful witnesses, they can corroborate details and describe the pervasive culture of coercion and fear.
  • Former Members: Individuals who left the organization or were expelled may be willing to provide insider information.
  • Bystanders/Campus Staff: Anyone who observed the hazing or its aftermath.

7.2 Damages: What Families Can Recover

When hazing leads to injury or death, the financial and emotional toll on victims and their families can be immense. Civil lawsuits aim to compensate for these losses, providing a path toward recovery and justice.

• Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses): These are direct, out-of-pocket costs and future financial impacts.

  • Medical Expenses: Past and future costs for emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation (physical, occupational, speech), medication, and ongoing psychiatric care. For catastrophic injuries, a life care plan estimates the extensive costs of lifelong specialized care, as seen in cases like Danny Santulli.
  • Lost Income & Earning Capacity: Compensation for wages lost due to injury or recovery, and for future income diminished by permanent disability or delayed educational attainment. This also includes lost tuition and educational opportunities.
  • Property Damage: Costs for any personal property destroyed during the hazing incident.

• Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Losses, Legally Compensable): These acknowledge the immense human suffering caused.

  • Physical Pain & Suffering: Compensation for the actual pain from injuries, discomfort, and any chronic pain.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: Acknowledges conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation, and terror. Psychiatric care records are crucial for substantiating these claims.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to engage in normal activities, hobbies, social life, and the overall disruption of a student’s collegiate experience and personal well-being.
  • Reputational Harm: If the incident gained public notoriety, victims may suffer reputational damage.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families of Deceased Victims): When hazing results in a fatality, eligible family members (parents, spouses, children) can seek:

  • Funeral and Burial Costs: Direct expenses related to the death.
  • Loss of Financial Support: Compensation for any income the deceased would have contributed to the family.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Society: Recognizes the profound emotional loss experienced by family members.
  • Grief and Emotional Suffering: Damages for the intense sorrow and mental anguish endured by grieving family members.
  • Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases.

• Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious misconduct, gross negligence, or willful indifference, punitive damages may be awarded. These are not to compensate the victim but to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future. They are often sought when a national organization or university had clear prior warnings of hazing but failed to act, such as the $6.5 million in punitive damages ordered to be personally paid by a chapter president in the Stone Foltz case. While there can be statutory caps on exemplary damages in Texas, they are a powerful tool for accountability.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Holding all responsible parties accountable is a cornerstone of hazing litigation. This often includes complex disputes over existing insurance policies:

• Insurance Coverage Fights: National fraternities, universities, and their individual officers typically carry multiple layers of insurance. However, insurance companies frequently try to deny coverage for hazing incidents, claiming that “intentional acts” or “criminal conduct” are excluded from policies.
• Experienced Hazing Lawyers Know the Playbook: Attorney911’s Lupe Peña, with her background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), understands these tactics firsthand. We know how to:
  • Identify all potential insurance carriers and policies (National, local chapter, university, residential housing corp, individual homeowner policies).
  • Argue that even if the hazing was intentional, the negligent supervision by the national or university is still covered.
  • Challenge improper denials of coverage and bad-faith insurance practices.
  • Force insurers to defend their clients and ultimately contribute to settlements or judgments.

These complexities underscore why specialized legal expertise is crucial. An experienced hazing attorney can cut through the legal jargon and the insurance companies’ resistance to protect your family’s rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For Concho County families grappling with hazing, knowledge is power. This section provides direct, actionable advice for parents, students, and witnesses, along with answers to common legal questions in Texas.

8.1 For Parents: Your Child’s Safety is Paramount

As a parent, your intuition is a powerful tool. If something feels off, investigate.

Warning Signs of Hazing in Your Child:

• Physical Changes: Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or “accidental” injuries. Constant exhaustion, extreme sleep deprivation, or drastic changes in weight (loss or gain). Medical issues like rhabdomyolysis or acute kidney failure, as seen with Leonel Bermudez, stem from severe physical hazing.
• Behavioral Shifts: Sudden secrecy about their organization’s activities (“I can’t talk about it”), withdrawal from family or old friends, personality changes (anxiety, depression, irritability, unusual aggression). They might become defensive when asked about the group or express fear of “getting in trouble.”
• Academic Decline: Grades dropping suddenly, missing classes, or falling asleep in lectures, especially if activities are prioritizing organizational demands over academics.
• Digital Obsession: Constant checking of phones for group chats, extreme anxiety when texts or social media pings, or attempts to hide or delete digital communications.
• Forced Financial Contributions: Sudden requests for unexplained money, large expenses, or frequent purchasing of alcohol or items for older members.

How to Talk to Your Child:

• Approach with Empathy: Start by expressing care and concern. “I’ve noticed you seem tired, is everything okay?” not “Are they hazing you?”
• Ask Open-Ended Questions: “What are the new member activities like?” “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?” “Do you feel pressure to keep things secret?”
• Prioritize Safety Over Status: Reassure them that their well-being is more important than fitting in with any group. Emphasize that true friends would never endanger them.
• Listen Without Judgment: If they open up, listen carefully without interrupting or immediately criticizing. Your goal is to gather information and build trust, not to shut them down.

If Your Child is Hurt or in Danger:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Their health is the top priority. Insist they get checked out, even if they claim to be fine.
• Document Everything Thoroughly: As soon as possible, write down everything your child tells you, including dates, times, locations, names, and specific incidents. Take clear photos of any injuries. Screenshot any digital communications they show you. Save any physical items (e.g., damaged clothing or receipts).
• Contact Attorney911: We are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance BEFORE confronting the organization or the university.

Dealing with the University:

• Document Interactions: Keep records of all emails, calls, and meetings with university officials. Note who you spoke to, what was said, and when.
• Ask Specific Questions: Inquire about the organization’s prior disciplinary history, their official hazing policies, and what specific steps the university plans to take. Do not let them minimize the incident as “pranking” or “tradition.”
• Understand the University’s Role: Remember that the university has its own interests to protect. Do not sign anything or agree to any “resolution” without consulting an attorney.

8.2 For Students / Pledges: Know Your Rights and Your Value

If you are a student, new member, or pledge in Concho County or elsewhere in Texas, your safety and well-being come first.

Is This Hazing or Just “Tradition”?
Ask yourself these critical questions:

• Would you do this if you weren’t trying to join or stay in the group?
• Would you be comfortable doing this if your parents or the university president were watching?
• Is this activity embarrassing, humiliating, or making you question your self-worth?
• Are you being pressured to keep secrets from outsiders, family, or the university?
• Does this interfere with your ability to sleep, study, eat, or maintain personal hygiene?
• Are you being forced to consume alcohol, drugs, or other unhealthy substances?
• Do you fear physical or emotional harm, or social exclusion, if you refuse to participate?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, you are likely being hazed. It is illegal, regardless of whether you “agreed” to it.

Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story:
Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Organizers of hazing cannot avoid liability by claiming you voluntarily participated. The law recognizes that in environments with power imbalances, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion (especially for young adults seeking belonging), true, free consent cannot be given. Your desire to join a group does not justify illegal and dangerous abuse.

Exiting and Reporting Safely:

• Your Right to Leave: You have the legal right to stop participating in hazing and to withdraw from any organization at any time, without penalty from the university.
• Prioritize Safety: If you are in immediate physical danger (e.g., highly intoxicated, injured, or facing physical threats), call 911 immediately. Most universities and Texas law offer good-faith reporting protections, meaning you will not get in trouble for seeking help in an emergency.
• Tell Someone: Confide in a trusted adult—a parent, a resident advisor, a professor, a coach, or a university counselor.
• Report Officially: You can report hazing anonymously or directly to the university’s Dean of Students Office, Student Conduct Office, or campus police.
• National Anti-Hazing Hotline: You can also call the anonymous 24/7 National Anti-Hazing Hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293).
• Preserve Evidence: Before doing anything else, secure copies of all digital communications, photos, and videos related to the hazing.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses: Your Role in Accountability

If you were once part of a hazing organization, witnessed hazing, or even participated yourself, you have a critical role to play in preventing future harm and holding abusers accountable. We understand this can be a difficult position, fraught with guilt or fear of repercussions.

• Your Testimony Matters: Your firsthand knowledge and evidence can be instrumental in legal cases, providing crucial details that verify a victim’s account and expose the truth. This testimony can lead to policy changes, organization suspensions, and ultimately, prevent another student from being harmed.
• Legal Advice for Yourself: If you are concerned about your own potential liability for past involvement, it is wise to seek your own confidential legal counsel. An attorney can advise you on your rights and obligations, and how best to proceed while protecting your interests.
• Preventing Future Harm: The courage to speak out can break the cycle of hazing, saving lives and protecting countless future students from enduring similar trauma. Many former members find a valuable path to healing and purpose by contributing to a safer campus environment.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Concho County families pursuing a hazing case, avoiding common missteps is as crucial as gathering evidence. These errors can severely jeopardize your ability to seek justice and compensation.

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” or “I want to protect them from embarrassment.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This looks like a cover-up, can be construed as obstruction of justice, and makes proving your child’s case incredibly difficult, if not impossible. Crucial evidence of coercion and intent can be lost forever.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even content that feels embarrassing or incriminating. A lawyer can properly filter and introduce evidence. Contact Attorney911 today.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind” or “I need to get answers immediately.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This immediately puts the organization on alert. They will likely hire lawyers, instruct members to deny everything, destroy evidence, and coach witnesses to tell a specific story. This jeopardizes your case before it even begins.
   • What to do instead: Document everything discreetly, then call Attorney911 for a confidential consultation before any direct communication with the perpetrators or their organization.

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

   • What universities do: Often pressure families to sign waivers, “internal resolution” agreements, or non-disclosure agreements as part of an internal disciplinary process. They might offer “solutions” that seem helpful but waive your rights.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your fundamental legal right to sue later for compensation. Any initial monetary offers are almost always far below the actual value of your case.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or any organization without an attorney reviewing it first. Refer all such documents to Attorney911.

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

   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened” or “I need to warn others.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Anything posted online can be used against you. Defense attorneys will screenshot everything, scrutinize your posts for inconsistencies, and argue that public statements harm your child’s credibility or were made for attention, not truth. This can also damage negotiations for confidential settlements.
   • What to do instead: Document all information privately. Let your lawyer control public messaging and strategy at the right time.

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting” or “talk it out”:

   • What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic” or “Let’s resolve this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This is often a tactic to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements from your child that can be used against them later. They may try to minimize the hazing or make your child feel guilty.
   • What to do instead: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication from members of the organization should be directed through your lawyer.

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

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally to avoid further disruption.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Evidence rapidly disappears (deleted messages, changed stories), witnesses graduate, and the university’s internal process prioritizes its own reputation over your child’s legal rights. The statute of limitations may also run out while you wait.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW and consult Attorney911immediately. The university’s disciplinary process is separate from a civil legal claim, and neither waits for the other.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim quickly and fairly.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters represent the insurance company’s interests, not yours. They will try to get recorded statements or admissions from you that can minimize the value of your claim or be used against you. Their initial offers are typically lowball figures designed to make your case go away cheaply.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with them and immediately inform them that your attorney (Attorney911) will handle all communications.

By avoiding these critical mistakes, Concho County families can protect their legal rights and maximize their potential for justice in hazing cases.

8.5 Short FAQ

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

  • Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) benefit from sovereign immunity under Texas law, meaning they are generally protected from lawsuits. However, critical exceptions exist, particularly for instances of gross negligence, willful misconduct, or violations of federal laws like Title IX. Private universities (such as SMU and Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts and legal strategy—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”

  • Yes, it can be. While hazing is a Class B misdemeanor by default under Texas law, it escalates to a state jail felony if the act causes serious bodily injury or death. This carries a penalty of 180 days to two years in a state jail facility. Individuals who know about hazing and fail to report it 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 prosecution for hazing. Courts, and our firm, recognize that “consent” given under immense peer pressure, fear of social exclusion, and power imbalances present in initiation rituals is not true, voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”

  • Generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases in Texas is two years from the date of the injury or death. However, this period can sometimes be extended by the “discovery rule” (if the harm wasn’t immediately known) or due to “fraudulent concealment” (if the hazers intentionally hid their actions). Time is absolutely critical in hazing cases—evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and memories fade. We urge Concho County families to call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. Learn about Texas statute of limitations in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

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

  • The location of the hazing does not eliminate liability. Texas hazing law specifically states it applies to acts both on or off campus. Major hazing cases, such as the fatal Pi Delta Psi retreat incident in Pennsylvania, occurred far off-campus and still resulted in criminal convictions and civil judgments against the national fraternity. Universities and national organizations can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and the foreseeability of hazing activities, regardless of where they physically transpire.

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

  • We understand the deep concern for privacy and reputation. Many hazing cases, particularly civil lawsuits, are resolved through confidential settlements before going to trial. Our firm prioritizes your family’s privacy and will pursue strategies to protect your child’s identity while still achieving accountability and compensation. We’ll discuss these options with you during your confidential consultation.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

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. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, we are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, and we bring a level of specialized expertise to hazing and campus abuse cases that very few firms possess.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including our valued clients in Concho County and surrounding areas. We understand that hazing at Texas universities can cast a long shadow back to our local communities, affecting the well-being and future of our children.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases?

Our firm is uniquely qualified to handle the complexities of hazing litigation for several key reasons:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable insight. As a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies operate. She understands their delay tactics, their arguments for denying coverage, and their lowball settlement strategies. We know their playbook because we used to run it. This insider knowledge gives our clients a distinct strategic advantage.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/), is no stranger to taking on colossal defendants. He led our firm’s involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, one of the most complex federal mass tort cases in U.S. history. This experience means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, multi-billion-dollar universities, or their arrays of defense attorneys. We have fought powerful corporations and won.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: Hazing too often results in wrongful death or catastrophic injuries with lifelong consequences, like brain damage or organ failure. Our firm’s proven track record includes securing multi-million-dollar results in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We work with leading medical experts, life care planners, and economists to meticulously calculate the full, long-term impact of such tragedies, ensuring your family receives comprehensive compensation, not just a quick settlement. Our extensive wrongful death experience is detailed at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.

• Dual Criminal and Civil Expertise: Hazing is a crime in Texas. Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) underscores our understanding of both the criminal and civil aspects of hazing cases. This ability to navigate both legal arenas is crucial, as a hazing incident can lead to criminal charges against individuals while simultaneously forming the basis of a civil lawsuit for damages. When hazing results in criminal charges, Attorney911’s criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) means we can advise on both criminal exposure and civil liability.

• Investigative Depth: We understand what makes hazing cases different: the ingrained culture of secrecy, the rapid destruction of evidence, and the pressure on witnesses. Our team is adept at obtaining crucial hidden evidence, including deleted group chats, social media forensics, internal chapter records, and university files through aggressive discovery and public records requests. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

• Empathy and Advocacy: We know that a hazing incident is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our approach balances legal ferocity with genuine compassion. Our job is to get you answers, hold every responsible party accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We focus on thorough investigation and real accountability, not quick, undervalued settlements.

Your Call to Action: Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Whether the incident occurred at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or another institution, families in Concho County and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and delaying can jeopardize your case.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family. We will review any evidence you have, discuss realistic timelines, answer your questions about costs (we work on a contingency fee basis – we don’t get paid unless we win your case; watch our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc), and provide transparent guidance. There is no pressure to hire us on the spot.

Call us today to discuss your rights and options.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
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

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

Whether you’re in Concho County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

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