The Complete Guide to Hazing Laws & Lawsuits in Texas: A Resource for Corinth Families

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

Imagine this scenario, one that could unfold for a student from Corinth right now: It’s “Big Brother Night” at a fraternity house near campus. Your child, eager to belong, is handed a bottle of liquor and told to finish it. Around them, older members chant while others film on their phones. Hours later, your child collapses. Those same members, fearing “getting the chapter in trouble,” delay calling 911. By the time they reach the hospital, it’s too late to prevent catastrophic kidney failure or brain damage.

This isn’t a hypothetical. It’s exactly what happened to Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, in November 2025. His story—a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit against UH, the Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders—represents the severe reality facing Texas families today. As reported by Click2Houston, Bermudez suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after enduring what attorneys described as “waterboarding-like” hose spraying, forced consumption until vomiting, and extreme physical workouts. He spent four days hospitalized, his urine turned brown from muscle breakdown, and he faces ongoing health risks.

For families in Corinth, Denton County, and across North Texas, this case hits close to home. Whether your child attends the University of North Texas or Texas Woman’s University right here in Denton County, or has ventured to UT Austin, Texas A&M, Baylor, SMU, or other Texas campuses, the risk is real. The Greek organizations present at these schools often share the same national affiliations, the same dangerous traditions, and the same institutional patterns that lead to tragedy.

This Guide Is for Corinth Parents & Students

This comprehensive resource is written specifically for parents and families in Corinth and throughout Denton County who need to understand:

What modern hazing actually looks like (far beyond old stereotypes)
How Texas law protects—or fails to protect—your child
What we’ve learned from national hazing deaths and injuries
What’s happening at Texas universities, including those closest to Corinth
Your legal rights and practical steps if hazing has impacted your family
Why choosing experienced Texas hazing counsel matters

We are The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC (Attorney911), Texas-based complex litigation attorneys currently representing Leonel Bermudez in his landmark case against UH and Pi Kappa Phi. We’ve built this guide not as legal advice for any specific situation, but as an educational resource for Corinth families navigating this difficult terrain. Every case depends on its unique facts, and we encourage you to consult with qualified counsel about your specific circumstances.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW in Corinth or anywhere in Texas:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like for Corinth Students

For Corinth families unfamiliar with modern Greek life, hazing has evolved far beyond stereotypical “pranks.” Today’s hazing is systematic, often digitally coordinated, and deliberately hidden from university oversight. It occurs across multiple organization types that Corinth students join:

The Broad Definition That Captures Modern Abuse

Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior:

Endangers physical or mental health
Humiliates, degrades, or exploits
Occurs under conditions of peer pressure and power imbalance

Critically for Corinth families: “I agreed to it” or “I wanted to fit in” does NOT make it legal or safe when there’s peer pressure, fear of exclusion, and power imbalance between new members and established members.

Main Categories of Hazing Affecting Texas Students

Alcohol and Substance Hazing (Most Common & Deadly)

Forced or coerced drinking during “Big/Little” nights, bid acceptance parties, or “family tree” games
Chugging challenges, “lineups,” shot-for-shot competitions
Being pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances
The Leonel Bermudez case involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed immediately by sprints

Physical Hazing

Paddling, beatings, or physical discipline
Extreme calisthenics disguised as “workouts” or “smokings” (100+ push-ups, 500+ squats as in the UH case)
Sleep deprivation through late-night “meetings” or early-morning summons
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpleasant substances
Exposure to extreme elements (cold-weather workouts in underwear)

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions, degrading costumes
Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones
Public shaming on social media or in chapter meetings

Psychological Hazing

Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
“Roasts” or “grilling” sessions designed to break down pledges
Manipulation through fear of expulsion from the group
Forced confessions or compromising revelations

Digital/Online Hazing (The New Frontier)

24/7 group chat monitoring with immediate response demands
Geo-tracking via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
Social media dares, TikTok challenges, Instagram story requirements
Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos
Critical evidence source: These digital trails often provide the strongest proof of hazing

Where Hazing Happens: Beyond Fraternity Stereotypes

Corinth students encounter hazing risks across multiple organizations:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural Greek councils)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC / military-style groups (particularly relevant for Texas A&M families)
Spirit Squads & Tradition Clubs (Texas Cowboys, Cheer, Song leaders)
Athletic Teams (from football to swimming)
Marching Bands & Performance Groups
Academic & Honor Societies
Service & Cultural Organizations

The common threads: social status, tradition, secrecy, and power imbalance keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal. For Corinth families, understanding this breadth is crucial—your child might be at risk in organizations you never suspected.

Texas Law & Liability Framework: What Corinth Families Must Know

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code Chapter 37)

Under Texas law—which governs cases involving Corinth students at Texas universities—hazing has specific legal definitions and consequences:

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

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

Plain English for Corinth Parents:
If someone makes your child do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk, that’s hazing under Texas law. Location (on or off campus) doesn’t matter. Mental or physical harm both qualify.

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000)
Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death

§ 37.155 Critical Protection: “Consent is Not a Defense”
Texas law explicitly states that the victim’s “consent” to hazing is not a defense to prosecution. This recognizes the power imbalances and coercion inherent in hazing situations.

§ 37.154 Reporter Protections:
Individuals who in good faith report hazing or call for medical help are generally protected from university discipline and certain criminal liability, even if they were involved or underage drinking occurred.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Different Paths to Accountability

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (county or district attorney)
Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical hazing-related charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
Example: In the Max Gruver case at LSU, fraternity members faced negligent homicide charges

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: Monetary compensation and institutional accountability
Focus on: negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
Critical: A criminal conviction is NOT required to pursue a civil case
Example: The Bermudez family’s $10 million lawsuit seeks compensation for medical bills, ongoing care, pain and suffering, and punitive damages

Dual-Track Reality: Many serious hazing cases involve both criminal prosecutions AND civil lawsuits running simultaneously. This is why having counsel with both civil and criminal experience—like our firm’s HCCLA membership and civil litigation background—matters for Corinth families.

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

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently
Strengthens hazing education and prevention mandates
Phased implementation through 2026
Impact for Corinth families: More public data about which organizations have violations

Title IX Application:

When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility
Creates additional reporting obligations for universities
Can provide alternative accountability pathways

Clery Act Requirements:

Mandates reporting of certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics
Hazing incidents often overlap with reportable crimes (assault, alcohol offenses)

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students:

Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
Personal liability can extend beyond graduation

Local Chapter / Organization:

The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if incorporated)
Chapter officers acting in official capacity
Housing corporations that own chapter facilities

National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
Liability often hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents
Pattern evidence from other chapters can establish “foreseeability”

University or Governing Board:

Schools may be liable under negligence or civil rights theories
Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference
Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections but exceptions exist

Third Parties:

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

The Defendant Universe in the Bermudez Case Shows This Breadth:

University of Houston System
UH Board of Regents
Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters
Beta Nu Housing Corporation
13 individual fraternity leaders/members
This comprehensive approach maximizes accountability and recovery

National Hazing Case Patterns: Precedents That Protect Corinth Families

The national hazing tragedies of the past decade have created legal precedents, legislative reforms, and settlement patterns that directly benefit Texas families today. When we represent Corinth families, we draw on these established patterns to build stronger cases.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

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

Bid-acceptance event with extreme drinking (18 drinks in 82 minutes)
Severe falls captured on chapter security cameras
4-hour delay before calling 911
Outcome: Dozens of criminal charges, multi-defendant civil litigation, Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law”
Takeaway for Corinth families: Delay in seeking medical help dramatically increases liability

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

“Bible study” drinking game—wrong answers mandated drinking
BAC of 0.495% at death
Outcome: Negligent homicide convictions, $6.1M civil verdict, Louisiana’s “Max Gruver Act” (felony hazing statute)
Takeaway: “Games” involving alcohol are predictable, preventable, and legally actionable

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

“Big/Little” night forcing consumption of entire bottle of alcohol
$10+ million settlements ($7M from national Pike, ~$3M from BGSU)
Chapter president personally ordered to pay $6.5 million
Takeaway: Both organizations AND individuals face massive liability

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

Handle of liquor consumption during initiation
FSU temporarily suspended ALL Greek life in response
Takeaway: Universities face tremendous pressure to act after tragedies

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

Blindfolded, weighted “glass ceiling” ritual at Pocono Mountains retreat
Fatal traumatic brain injury; delayed medical care
Outcome: National fraternity criminally convicted, banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Takeaway: Off-campus locations don’t eliminate liability—they can increase it

Collin Wiant – Ohio University, Sigma Pi (2018)

Nitrous oxide abuse during hazing at unofficial fraternity house
“Collin’s Law” enacted in Ohio, upgrading hazing to felony when drugs/alcohol cause harm
Takeaway: Drug-related hazing creates additional criminal exposure

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

Widespread sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired, later settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Takeaway: Hazing extends far beyond Greek life into major athletic programs

Western Kentucky University Swim Team (2012–2015)

Verbal and physical abuse spanning years
Entire swim program suspended for 5 years
University settled federal lawsuit for $75,000
Takeaway: Even non-revenue sports face serious accountability

What These National Cases Mean for Corinth Families

Pattern Evidence Matters: When the same fraternity (like Pi Kappa Alpha or Sigma Alpha Epsilon) has multiple incidents nationwide, it establishes “foreseeability”—the national organization knew or should have known the risks.
Settlement Ranges Are Established: Death cases typically settle for $1M–$14M, with severe injury cases in the $375K–multi-million range. These benchmarks help Corinth families understand what’s possible.
Individual Accountability Is Real: Chapter presidents and officers face personal liability beyond organizational liability.
Legislative Momentum Helps: States are increasingly passing stronger anti-hazing laws, creating better protections for Texas students.
The Playbook Is Known: We know how national fraternities and universities respond because we’ve seen these patterns repeatedly. This informs our strategy for Corinth families from day one.

Texas University Focus: Where Corinth Students Face Risk

Corinth families have deep connections to Texas higher education. Many students stay local at University of North Texas or Texas Woman’s University in Denton, while others venture to major campuses across the state. Each university has its own Greek ecosystem, hazing history, and institutional response patterns. Understanding these differences is crucial for navigating a hazing crisis.

University of North Texas (UNT) – Corinth’s Neighbor Campus

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
As Corinth’s closest major university, UNT hosts over 40 fraternities and sororities across four governing councils. With its growing residential population and expanding Greek housing, UNT represents both opportunity and risk for Denton County students.

Hazing Policy & Reporting:
UNT prohibits hazing as defined by Texas law and maintains reporting channels through the Dean of Students and Office of Student Conduct. The university’s location in Denton means local cases may involve Denton Police Department alongside campus authorities.

Recent History & Context:
While UNT hasn’t faced hazing fatalities on the scale of some Texas schools, the university has suspended chapters for violations. The proximity to Corinth means affected families are literally dealing with a hometown crisis when incidents occur.

How a UNT Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Investigations may involve UNT Police, Denton PD, or both
Civil suits would typically be filed in Denton County courts
Potential defendants include chapters, nationals, and potentially the university
Corinth families benefit from local jurisdiction familiarity

What UNT Students & Corinth Parents Should Do:

Document everything immediately—Corinth’s proximity means evidence preservation can begin quickly
Understand both UNT’s conduct process and potential criminal/civil options
Recognize that Corinth’s legal community may have insights into UNT’s patterns

Texas Woman’s University (TWU) – Denton’s Other Major Campus

Unique Position: As a historically women-focused institution with growing coeducational programs, TWU’s Greek life faces different dynamics but similar risks.

For Corinth Families: Students attending TWU from Corinth enjoy close proximity to home but may face unique social pressures in smaller Greek communities.

University of Houston – The Bermudez Case Campus

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
UH’s large, diverse Greek community includes the Pi Kappa Phi chapter at the center of the landmark Bermudez case. The urban campus setting creates both oversight challenges and evidentiary opportunities (more security cameras, digital footprints).

The Bermudez Case Details (Our Active Litigation):

Victim: Leonel Bermudez, transfer student
Hazing Period: Fall 2025 pledge semester
Key Allegations:
- “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation rule (condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices)
- Enforced dress codes, overnight driving duties, weekly interviews
- Extreme physical hazing: sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races
- Cold-weather exposure in underwear
- Lying in vomit-soaked grass
- Hose spraying in face “similar to waterboarding”
- Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting
- Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threat
- Another pledge hog-tied face-down with object in mouth for over an hour
Medical Catastrophe: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, brown urine, 4-day hospitalization, critically high creatine kinase levels, ongoing kidney damage risk
Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual members
Institutional Response: Chapter suspended Nov 6, 2025; charter surrendered Nov 14, 2025; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”
Legal Action: $10 million lawsuit filed in Harris County

Why This Case Matters for Corinth Families:

Active Texas Precedent: This isn’t historical—we’re litigating this right now
Comprehensive Defendant Approach: Shows how to hold all responsible parties accountable
Medical Documentation Model: Demonstrates how to prove severe injury through medical records
Pattern Evidence: Pi Kappa Phi’s national history (including Andrew Coffey’s death at FSU) establishes foreseeability

UH’s Greek Ecosystem (from Official Rosters):

Interfraternity Council: Alpha Epsilon Pi, Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Delta Upsilon, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Theta Chi
Panhellenic Council: Alpha Chi Omega, Chi Omega, Delta Gamma, Delta Zeta, Phi Mu, Zeta Tau Alpha
NPHC (Divine Nine): All nine historically Black organizations
Multicultural Greek Council: Numerous culturally-based organizations

What UH Students & Parents Should Do:

Recognize that UH’s urban location means evidence may come from multiple sources (security cameras, business records, digital footprints)
Understand that Harris County courts have extensive experience with complex litigation
Document aggressively—the Bermudez case succeeded because of detailed evidence preservation

Texas A&M University – Corps Culture & Greek Life

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
A&M’s unique Corps of Cadets tradition coexists with a massive Greek system. Both environments have faced serious hazing allegations.

Documented Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. $1 million lawsuit filed.
Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023): Cadet alleged being bound between beds in degrading position with apple in mouth during hazing. Sought over $1 million in damages.
Ongoing Rhabdomyolysis Concerns: Multiple reports of extreme physical hazing leading to kidney injury risk

Corps of Cadets Specific Risks:

Military-style hierarchy can enable abuse
Tradition often cited as justification for harmful practices
Dual accountability through both university and military channels

How A&M Cases Differ:

Brazos County jurisdiction
Potential military career implications for Corps members
Unique traditions defense (“It’s always been done this way”)

What A&M Families Should Do:

Recognize that A&M’s “tradition” defense is legally weak but emotionally powerful
Document both Greek and Corps activities thoroughly
Understand that College Station’s smaller legal community may present unique dynamics

University of Texas at Austin – Transparency & Repeated Violations

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
UT’s highly transparent hazing violation log provides unique insight into recurring problems. The public nature of these records strengthens civil cases.

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Log (Examples):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. Sanction: Probation, hazing prevention education.
Texas Wranglers (Multiple Entries): Spirit organization with repeated violations including alcohol hazing and physical misconduct.
Kappa Alpha Order: Multiple sanctions over years.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon: Ongoing pattern of violations.

Why UT’s Transparency Matters for Corinth Families:

Pattern Evidence: Public records establish organizational knowledge
Prior Notice: University cannot claim ignorance when violations are documented
Settlement Leverage: Public scrutiny pressures quicker resolutions

UT’s Greek Ecosystem Includes:

Interfraternity Council: Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Kappa Sigma, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, etc.
Panhellenic Council: All major national sororities
Texas Asian Pan-Hellenic Council: Multiple culturally-based organizations
NPHC: Historically Black Greek organizations

What UT Students & Parents Should Do:

Check the Public Log: hazing.utexas.edu before allowing your child to join an organization
Use Public Records: These violations become evidence in civil cases
Understand Austin Jurisdiction: Travis County courts have specific procedures and precedents

Southern Methodist University – Private University Dynamics

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
SMU’s affluent, Greek-dominated culture presents unique risks and challenges. Private university status affects transparency and accountability mechanisms.

Documented Incident:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, deprived of sleep. Chapter suspended until 2021.

Private University Considerations:

Less public reporting required than public institutions
Different disciplinary processes
Potential donor and reputation influences on responses

SMU’s Prominent Greek Organizations:

Panhellenic: Alpha Chi Omega, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Kappa Kappa Gamma, etc.
Interfraternity Council: Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Alpha Order, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi

What SMU Families Should Do:

Recognize that SMU’s private status may mean less initial transparency
Be prepared for potential reputation protection efforts
Understand that Dallas County courts will handle any civil litigation

Baylor University – Religious Identity & Historical Context

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Baylor’s religious identity coexists with a Greek system and athletic programs that have faced serious misconduct allegations, creating complex accountability dynamics.

Documented Incident:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation.

Historical Context Matters:

Baylor’s previous Title IX scandals affect institutional response patterns
Religious branding may influence internal handling
Waco’s legal community has specific characteristics

What Baylor Families Should Do:

Understand Baylor’s unique cultural and religious context
Recognize that McLennan County jurisdiction has specific precedents
Document thoroughly despite potential institutional resistance

Cross-University Patterns Affecting Corinth Students

Common Themes Across Texas Campuses:

Alcohol Centrality: Forced drinking remains the most common and dangerous hazing method
Physical “Workout” Disguise: Extreme exercise framed as “conditioning”
Digital Coordination: Group chats organize and document hazing
Off-Campus Movement: Events shifted to houses, Airbnbs, retreats to avoid detection
Delayed Medical Care: Fear of “getting in trouble” overrides safety concerns

For Corinth Parents:
Your child’s university choice doesn’t change the fundamental risks. The same national organizations, the same dangerous traditions, and the same institutional response patterns exist across Texas campuses. What changes is the specific jurisdiction, the university’s transparency level, and the local legal landscape.

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: Public Records Corinth Parents Should Know

When we investigate hazing cases for Corinth families, we don’t start from scratch. We draw on comprehensive public records data tracking Greek organizations across Texas. This intelligence informs our strategy and strengthens your case.

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Our Investigative Advantage

We maintain and utilize what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a proprietary database compiled from:

1. IRS B83 Backbone – 125 Texas-Registered Greek Organizations
These tax-exempt entities include house corporations, alumni chapters, and honor societies with verified EINs, legal names, and addresses. Examples relevant to Corinth families:

Sigma Phi Lambda Inc – 4251 FM 2181 STE 230 PMB 480, Corinth, TX 76210 (Multiple chapters including Alpha, Beta, Tau, Omega, Alpha Alpha, Alpha Mu, Alpha Rho, Alpha Sigma, Alpha Tau, Alpha Zeta chapters)
Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity – 920 W Prairie St, Denton, TX 76201 (Mu Gamma Chapter)
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – 411 Texas St Room 219, Denton, TX 76204 (Texas Woman’s University Chapter)
Kappa Sigma – Mu Gamma Chapter Inc – 1416 Sleepy Hollow Dr, Lufkin, TX 75904
Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc – 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035

2. Texas Universities – 96 Campuses with Greek Life
Our master list includes every Texas university with city/county locations, helping us identify all potential jurisdictions and connected organizations.

3. Cause IQ Metro Organizations – 129 Entities Across 15 Metros
For Corinth families in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro, we track organizations like:

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity – Fort Worth
Delta Delta Delta (Tri Delta) – Arlington
Kappa Delta Sorority – Gamma Beta Chapter – Denton
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation – Fort Worth

4. IRS-Cause IQ Brand Overlap – 36 Cross-Validated Organizations
These verified matches prove how national brands appear across Texas as undergraduate chapters, alumni groups, and honor societies.

Metro-Level Data: The DFW Greek Landscape

Corinth sits within the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area, which contains 510 Greek-related organizations according to Cause IQ data. This dense ecosystem means:

Your child may interact with organizations headquartered throughout DFW
Legal actions may span multiple counties (Denton, Dallas, Tarrant, Collin)
Insurance coverage and liability may be spread across entities

Why This Data Matters for Your Case

We Don’t Start from Zero: When you contact us about a hazing incident, we already know the organizational landscape
Comprehensive Defendant Identification: We can identify all potentially liable entities, not just the obvious ones
Insurance Coverage Mapping: Different entities carry different insurance policies—we track them all
Pattern Evidence: We can identify whether the same national organization has prior incidents in Texas or nationally
Jurisdiction Strategy: We understand which courts have experience with which organizations

National Fraternity Histories: Pattern Evidence That Strengthens Your Case

When a Corinth student is hazed by a fraternity or sorority with national affiliation, that organization’s history elsewhere becomes powerful evidence. Here are key patterns:

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) – Stone Foltz Precedent

Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green (2021) – $10+ million settlements
David Bogenberger death at Northern Illinois (2012) – $14 million settlement
Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing with致命 consequences
Presence at Texas Schools: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, SMU

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) – Multiple Texas Incidents

Chemical burns case at Texas A&M (2021) – $1 million lawsuit
Assault case at UT Austin (2024) – $1+ million lawsuit
Traumatic brain injury case at University of Alabama (2023)
Pattern: Physical violence combined with substance hazing
Presence: All major Texas campuses

Phi Delta Theta – Max Gruver Legacy

Max Gruver death at LSU (2017) – $6.1 million verdict
Pattern: Drinking games framed as “education”
Presence: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU

Pi Kappa Phi – Andrew Coffey & Current UH Case

Andrew Coffey death at Florida State (2017)
Leonel Bermudez kidney failure at UH (2025) – $10 million lawsuit
Pattern: Extreme physical hazing combined with forced consumption
Presence: UH, Texas A&M

Kappa Alpha Order – Paddling Tradition

SMU chapter suspension (2017-2021)
Multiple violations at UT Austin
Pattern: Physical discipline framed as “tradition”

Sigma Chi – High-Value Settlements

College of Charleston case (2024) – $10+ million settlement
UT Arlington alcohol poisoning case (2020) – confidential settlement
Pattern: Severe psychological and physical hazing

How We Use This History for Corinth Families

Establish Foreseeability: When national organizations have prior incidents, they can’t claim “we didn’t know this could happen”
Negate “Rogue Chapter” Defense: Pattern evidence shows systemic problems, not isolated “bad apples”
Support Punitive Damages: Repeated failures to prevent known dangers justify punishment beyond compensation
Guide Investigation: We know what evidence to look for based on organizational patterns
Inform Settlement Strategy: We understand what similar cases have achieved nationwide

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy & Recovery for Corinth Families

When hazing harms a Corinth student, building a successful case requires systematic evidence collection, strategic defendant identification, and comprehensive damages calculation. Here’s how we approach these cases.

Critical Evidence Categories

Digital Communications (Most Important Evidence Today)

Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack
Social Media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook Messenger
Recovered Deletions: Digital forensics can often retrieve “deleted” messages
Metadata: Timestamps, location data, participant lists
Our Video Resource: Using your phone to document evidence

Photos & Videos

Event footage filmed by participants
Injury documentation (immediate and progressive)
Location evidence (houses, venues, landmarks)
Social media posts/stories documenting hazing

Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts
Risk management policies (often used against organizations)
Chapter bylaws and “tradition” documents
Communications between local and national organizations

University Records

Prior conduct violations (obtained through discovery)
Campus police reports
Clery Act reports
Internal emails about the organization

Medical Documentation

Emergency room and hospitalization records
Toxicology reports (blood alcohol, drug screens)
Specialist evaluations (nephrology for kidney injury, psychiatry for PTSD)
Ongoing treatment records

Witness Testimony

Other pledges (often afraid but potentially cooperative)
Former members (may have left due to hazing)
Roommates, friends, significant others
Medical providers, first responders

The Defendant Universe: Holding All Responsible Parties Accountable

In the Bermudez case, we sued 17 different defendants across multiple categories. This comprehensive approach maximizes recovery and ensures genuine accountability.

Individual Defendants (13 in Bermudez Case):

Chapter President
Pledgemaster
Risk Manager
Sorority Relations Chair
Other officers and active members
Strategic Value: Personal liability pressures individuals to cooperate and provide evidence

Organizational Defendants:

Local Chapter (if incorporated)
National Headquarters (Pi Kappa Phi)
Housing Corporation (Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc)
Alumni Associations

Institutional Defendants:

University of Houston
UH System Board of Regents
Strategic Consideration: Public university sovereign immunity requires specific legal arguments

Third Parties:

Property owners (Culmore Drive residence in Bermudez case)
Event venues (Yellowstone Boulevard Park)
Alcohol providers

Damages: What Corinth Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses)

Medical Expenses: Past bills + future care (lifetime calculations for permanent injuries)
Lost Income/Earning Capacity: Missed work, delayed career entry, reduced lifetime earnings
Educational Costs: Tuition for interrupted semesters, transfer expenses, lost scholarships
Other Expenses: Therapy, medications, medical equipment, home modifications

Non-Economic Damages (Compensation for Harm)

Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries and treatment
Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of Enjoyment: Can’t participate in activities they loved
Reputational Harm: Social stigma, digital footprint consequences

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of financial support
Loss of companionship, love, guidance
Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering

Punitive Damages (When Available)

To punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
To deter future hazing
Available when defendants show “callous indifference” to known risks

Settlement vs. Trial Strategy

Most Cases Settle Confidentially

Protects family privacy
Provides faster resolution
Avoids trial uncertainty
Bermudez Case Status: Active litigation with public filings due to severity

When Trials Happen

Defendants refuse reasonable settlement
Public accountability is prioritized
Establishing legal precedent is valuable
Our Firm’s Position: We prepare every case for trial to maximize settlement leverage

Insurance Coverage Complexities

Common Insurance Arguments We Counter:

“Hazing is intentional, so insurance doesn’t cover it”
“This was a rogue chapter, not our responsibility”
“The policy excludes assault/battery”

Our Insider Advantage:
Mr. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney gives us unique insight into how insurers evaluate and defend hazing claims. We know their playbook because we used to run it.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Corinth Parents & Students

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Corinth Student May Be Being Hazed:

Unexplained injuries, bruises, burns
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, withdrawal
Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Constant phone monitoring for group chat demands
Financial requests for unexplained “dues” or purchases
Academic performance decline

If You Suspect Hazing:

Talk Calmly: Ask open questions without judgment
Document Everything: Write down what they tell you with dates/times
Preserve Evidence: Help them screenshot messages, photograph injuries
Seek Medical Care: Even if they resist, some injuries (like rhabdomyolysis) worsen over days
Contact an Attorney: Before reporting to university or confronting the organization
Avoid Common Mistakes: Don’t delete evidence, don’t confront the group directly, don’t sign university waivers

Dealing with the University:

Document all communications
Ask specifically about prior incidents involving the same organization
Understand that the university’s interests may not align with your family’s
Have an attorney review any settlement offers or discipline resolutions

For Students: Safety Planning & Rights

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide:

Are you being pressured to do something unsafe or humiliating?
Would you do this if you had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity hidden from university officials or parents?
Are older members making you do things they don’t do themselves?
Are you told to keep secrets or lie about activities?

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

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

You cannot be punished for calling 911 in a medical emergency (good-faith reporter immunity)
Your “consent” is not a legal defense for those who haze you
You can pursue civil damages even if no criminal charges are filed
You have the right to leave any organization at any time

Exiting Safely:

Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, trusted friend)
Send a clear resignation in writing (email/text to chapter president)
Do NOT attend “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
If threatened, report immediately to campus police and Dean of Students

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

1. Deleting Evidence

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

2. Confronting the Organization Directly

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

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms

What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
Why it’s wrong: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are often below true value
What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting on Social Media

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

5. Waiting for University Investigation

What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statutes run
What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters

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

Frequently Asked Questions for Corinth Families

Q: Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?
A: Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT, UNT) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity hurdles. Each case requires individual analysis.

Q: Is hazing a felony in Texas?
A: It can be. Texas law makes hazing a Class B misdemeanor by default, but upgrades it to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. The Bermudez case involves felony-level allegations due to the kidney failure and hospitalization.

Q: What if my child “agreed” to the initiation activities?
A: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
A: Generally 2 years from the date of injury or discovery of harm in Texas, but exceptions apply. The “discovery rule” may extend deadlines if harm wasn’t immediately apparent. Time is critical—evidence disappears quickly. Watch our video on Texas statutes of limitations for more details.

Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?
A: Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Many major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus and resulted in judgments.

Q: Will this be confidential?
A: Most hazing cases settle confidentially. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize family privacy while pursuing accountability.

Q: How much does legal representation cost?
A: We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Watch our explanation of how contingency fees work.

Q: What about criminal charges?
A: Hazing can involve both criminal prosecution AND civil lawsuits. Our firm’s criminal defense experience (HCCLA membership) helps us navigate this dual-track reality and advise clients appropriately.

Why Attorney911 for Corinth Hazing Cases

When your Corinth family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. Here’s why The Manginello Law Firm brings unique advantages to Texas hazing cases.

Our Active Litigation: The Bermudez UH Case

Right now, we’re leading one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas—the $10 million lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi. This isn’t historical precedent; this is current, active litigation demonstrating our capability to take on major universities and national fraternities.

Competitive Advantages for Corinth Families

Insurance Insider Knowledge (Mr. Lupe Peña’s Defense Background)

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

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello)

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

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience

Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
Experience valuing lifetime care needs (brain injury, permanent disability)
Collaboration with economists, life care planners, medical experts
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
Experience with both sides of the courtroom

Investigative Depth & Resources

Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
(see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs)
Experience obtaining hidden evidence (deleted messages, chapter records, university files)
Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine with 1,423 Greek organizations tracked
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Geographic Mastery for Corinth Families

Understanding of Denton County courts and procedures
Knowledge of DFW metro Greek ecosystem (510 organizations)
Experience with multiple Texas university systems and their response patterns
Local insights combined with statewide capability

Our Approach: Empathy Meets Aggressive Advocacy

We understand that hazing cases involve:

Grieving families seeking answers
Traumatized students facing uncertain futures
Powerful institutions protecting reputations
Complex legal, medical, and emotional dimensions

Our approach balances:

Compassionate support for families in crisis
Thorough investigation leaving no stone unturned
Strategic litigation against all responsible parties
Commitment to prevention through accountability

Spanish-Language Services

Hablamos Español – Mr. Lupe Peña provides full consultation and representation in Spanish for Hispanic families in Corinth and across Texas.

Call to Action for Corinth Families

If you or your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether UNT here in Denton County, UT Austin, Texas A&M, UH, Baylor, SMU, or any other institution—we want to hear from you.

Families in Corinth and throughout North Texas have the right to answers and accountability when organizations entrusted with student safety betray that trust.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a Confidential Consultation

What to Expect:

We’ll Listen to your story without judgment
Review Evidence you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain Options clearly: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Discuss Realistic Timelines and what to expect
Answer Questions about costs (contingency fee – we don’t get paid unless we win)
No Pressure to hire us immediately – take time to decide
Complete Confidentiality – everything you tell us is protected

Immediate Contact Information

Call 24/7: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello) or lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña)

Spanish Services: Hablamos Español – Contact Mr. Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com

Serving Corinth from Our Texas Offices

While based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Corinth, Denton County, and all North Texas communities. Geography doesn’t limit our ability to investigate hazing, hold responsible parties accountable, and secure justice for Texas families.

Final Word to Corinth Parents

Whether your child attends school here in Denton County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions involved have lawyers protecting their interests. Your family deserves the same protection.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s discuss how we can help you find answers, secure accountability, and prevent this from happening to another family.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos

Evidence preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes to avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Contingency fees explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website & Practice Areas

Main website: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal defense: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
Ralph Manginello profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Lupe Peña profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

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 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