Texas Hazing: A Comprehensive Guide for Crosby County Families

It’s late at night in a quiet corner of Crosby County, Texas. You get a frantic call from your child, a student at one of Texas’s major universities – perhaps Texas Tech, close to home, or even further afield at Texas A&M. They sound shaken, fearful, and reluctant to share details. They mumble something about a “mandatory event,” a “pledge activity,” or a “tradition” that has gone wrong. Before you can ask more, the line goes dead, or they brush it off as “nothing,” but your parent’s intuition screams otherwise. They might be ashamed, afraid of retaliation, or pressured to keep secrets. This scenario, unfortunately, is a grim reality for many families in Crosby County and across Texas whose children pursue higher education.

For many, hazing brings to mind a bygone era of silly pranks or harmless rituals. But in 2025, hazing is far more sinister, pervasive, and sophisticated. It endangers physical and mental health, often resulting in severe injury, psychological trauma, or even death. When a student from Crosby County heads off to college, whether to Lubbock, College Station, Houston, Austin, Dallas, or Waco, they might encounter hazing not just in fraternities or sororities, but within athletic teams, spirit organizations, military-style groups, and even academic clubs.

This guide is designed to be a comprehensive resource for families in Crosby County and across Texas who want to understand the true nature of modern hazing. We will explore what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas and federal law address these dangerous practices, and what we can learn from major national and in-state cases. We’ll also delve into specific incidents and policies at the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University. Most importantly, we will outline the legal options available to victims and families in Crosby County and throughout Texas who are seeking answers, accountability, and justice.

While this article provides general information and not specific legal advice, The Manginello Law Firm is dedicated to helping families in their time of crisis. We evaluate individual cases based on their unique facts and serve clients throughout the entire state of Texas, including the close-knit communities of Crosby County and its surrounding areas like Kent, Floyd, or Garza counties.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

• Call 911 for medical emergencies, without hesitation. Good-faith reporting protections exist.
• Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We provide immediate help because 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.” Prioritize their health.
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages (DMs) immediately.
  • Photograph injuries from multiple angles and over several days.
  • Save physical items like clothing worn during the incident, receipts for forced purchases, or any objects involved.
• Write down everything while memory is fresh: who, what, when, and where.
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity/sorority or other organization members directly.
  • Sign anything from the university or insurance company without legal review.
  • Post details on public social media, as this can compromise your case.
  • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence that might be crucial.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast—group chats are deleted, objects are destroyed, and witnesses may be coerced.
• Universities often move quickly to control the narrative.
• We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights from the outset.
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation if you suspect hazing affecting your family in Crosby County or anywhere in Texas.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

The popular image of hazing often falls short of its modern reality. It’s not just a rite of passage; it’s often a calculated system of control, humiliation, and abuse that can have lifelong consequences. For families in Crosby County, understanding the true nature of hazing as it exists today is the first step towards protecting your children.

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether on or off campus, undertaken 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’s crucial to emphasize that “I agreed to it” does not automatically make the activity safe or legal when there is peer pressure and a significant power imbalance. The presence of coercion, direct or implied, makes consent meaningless.

Main Categories of Modern Hazing

Modern hazing takes many forms, evolving to evade detection while maintaining its harmful impact:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most common and deadliest forms. It involves forced or coerced drinking of alcohol, often to extreme levels. Pledges are made to participate in chugging challenges, “lineups,” or games that require rapid and excessive alcohol consumption, often without regard for individual tolerance or safety. There’s also pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances, which carries enormous health risks. The Stone Foltz case at Bowling Green State University, where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink a bottle of liquor, is a stark reminder of these dangers.

• Physical Hazing: This category includes acts that inflict bodily harm or extreme physical discomfort. Examples range from paddling and beatings to extreme calisthenics, often called “workouts” or “smokings,” far beyond normal conditioning. Sleep deprivation is a common tactic, involving mandatory late-night activities and early morning wake-up calls designed to wear down new members. Food and water deprivation, or exposure to extreme environmental conditions like cold or heat, also fall under physical hazing. The tragic death of Chun “Michael” Deng, who suffered fatal head injuries during a violent blindfolded ritual, underscores the severe risks of physical hazing.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This form of hazing aims to degrade and dehumanize individuals. It includes forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (such as the “roasted pig” positions described in some Texas A&M Corps hazing allegations), and degrading costumes or behaviors. Disturbingly, some acts specifically target individuals based on race, gender, or sexual orientation, involving slurs, role-play, or other discriminatory practices.

• Psychological Hazing: While less visible, psychological hazing can inflict profound and lasting trauma. It involves verbal abuse, threats, and deliberate isolation tactics designed to break down a new member’s self-esteem and foster dependence on the group. Manipulation, forced confessions, and public shaming—whether in person, in meetings, or particularly through social media—are common methods. This constant pressure can lead to severe anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.

• Digital/Online Hazing: With the ubiquity of smartphones and social media, hazing has moved into the digital realm. This includes group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation tactics executed via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, and others. Pledges might be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or participate in online “games” that are degrading or dangerous. Digital hazing also often involves constant monitoring of new members through group chats, demanding immediate responses at all hours, leading to sleep deprivation and intense psychological stress.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

It’s a common misconception that hazing is exclusive to Greek life. While fraternities and sororities (including Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural chapters) are frequent environments for hazing, it transcends these groups. Hazing is a problem in:

• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / military-style groups: These organizations, particularly prominent at institutions like Texas A&M, can sometimes foster environments where “tradition” masks initiation abuse.
• Spirit squads and tradition clubs: Groups like the Texas Cowboys at UT Austin, or various other spirit and service organizations, have faced sanctions for hazing.
• Athletic teams: From Division I football and basketball players to cheerleading and club sports, hazing can occur in any team that emphasizes group cohesion and initiation rituals. The Northwestern University football hazing scandal is a recent, high-profile example.
• Marching bands and performance groups: Even these seemingly benign groups can fall prey to hazing, as seen in the tragic Robert Champion case involving the Florida A&M University marching band.
• Some service, cultural, and academic organizations: Any student group that has a hierarchical structure and initiation process can potentially engage in hazing.

The root of hazing in all these contexts often lies in social status, perceived tradition, and fierce secrecy. These elements combine to create powerful group dynamics that perpetuate harmful practices, even when anti-hazing policies are widely publicized. For families in Crosby County with students at Texas Tech, Texas A&M, or other universities, recognizing these diverse environments where hazing can occur is vital for prevention and early intervention.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape around hazing in Texas is crucial for Crosby County families seeking justice. The law provides clear definitions, criminal penalties, and avenues for civil recourse.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific, robust anti-hazing provisions primarily found in the Texas Education Code. In plain terms, Section 37.151 of the Texas Education Code broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether committed by one person 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.

This definition is critical because:

• Location doesn’t matter: Hazing can happen on or off campus, in a fraternity house off-campus (even one not officially recognized by the school), or at a remote retreat.
• Psychological harm is included: It’s not just about physical injuries; severe humiliation, verbal abuse, and other mental health threats constitute hazing.
• Intent isn’t always required: The act can be “reckless,” meaning the individuals involved knew or should have known there was a substantial risk of danger, but proceeded anyway.
• “Consent” is irrelevant: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the activity. This is a cornerstone of anti-hazing law, recognizing the immense pressure and coercion inherent in initiation rituals.

Criminal penalties for hazing in Texas:

• By default, hazing that does not result in serious injury is a Class B Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
• If the hazing causes an injury requiring medical treatment, it can be elevated to a Class A Misdemeanor.
• Most significantly, if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it can be prosecuted as a State Jail Felony.

Additionally, Texas law outlines criminal penalties for:

• Failing to report hazing: An officer or member of an organization who has knowledge of hazing and fails to report it can face misdemeanor charges.
• Retaliating against a reporter: Individuals who retaliate against someone for reporting hazing can also face misdemeanor charges.

These provisions demonstrate that hazing in Texas is taken seriously by the state, with clear statutory authority for prosecution.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It’s common for families to confuse criminal and civil legal actions, but they serve different purposes and are pursued by different parties.

• Criminal cases: These are brought by the state (through a district attorney or prosecutor) against individuals or even organizations. The primary aim is punishment—such as jail time, fines paid to the state, or probation—for violating state law. In hazing contexts, criminal charges can range from hazing offenses and furnishing alcohol to minors to assault, battery, or even manslaughter or negligent homicide in fatal cases. For instance, in the Max Gruver case, multiple individuals faced criminal charges, with one convicted of negligent homicide.

• Civil cases: These are initiated by victims or their surviving family members (plaintiffs) against the responsible individuals and entities (defendants). The goal in a civil case is monetary compensation for damages suffered, as well as to hold the responsible parties accountable and prevent future harm. Civil actions in hazing cases typically focus on legal theories such as:

  • Negligence and gross negligence: Where defendants failed to act with reasonable care, or acted with reckless disregard, leading to injury.
  • Wrongful death: Brought by specific family members when hazing results in a fatality.
  • Negligent hiring/supervision: Against institutions (universities, national organizations) for failing to adequately oversee their employees or member groups.
  • Premises liability: If the hazing occurred on property where the owner failed to maintain a safe environment.
  • Intentional infliction of emotional distress: For severe psychological harm.
  • Assault and battery: If physical contact occurred.

While both types of cases can proceed simultaneously, a criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for a successful civil lawsuit. The standards of proof differ, and it’s possible for defendants to be acquitted criminally but still found liable in a civil court for damages. For families in Crosby County, understanding this distinction is vital when considering legal recourse.

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

Beyond state law, several federal mandates influence how universities address and report hazing, creating additional layers of accountability:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal legislation requires colleges and universities that receive federal funding to be more transparent about hazing incidents. By around 2026, institutions must publicly report hazing violations, including details about the organizations involved and the sanctions imposed. The act also pushes for stronger hazing education and prevention strategies. This means that families in Crosby County will soon have even greater access to data on which universities and organizations have a history of hazing.

• Title IX & Clery Act:

  • Title IX prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a hostile environment based on gender, it can trigger Title IX obligations for universities. This can compel colleges to investigate, provide remedies, and take disciplinary action.
  • The Clery Act requires colleges to disclose campus crime statistics and security policies. Hazing incidents involving certain crimes—such as assault, alcohol-related offenses, or sexual misconduct—must be included in these reports, even if they occur off-campus but are connected to student organizations. These federal laws work in concert to hold universities to a higher standard of transparency and response regarding student safety.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Holding responsible parties accountable in a hazing lawsuit often involves identifying multiple defendants, each carrying a different degree of liability. For a Crosby County family, knowing these potential defendants is key to building a robust case:

• Individual Students: The students who actively planned, carried out, supplied alcohol, or helped cover up hazing acts can be held personally liable. This includes officers of the organization and “pledge educators” who directly orchestrated the events. The recent court order for Daylen Dunson, a former Pi Kappa Alpha president, to pay $6.5 million to Stone Foltz’s family, demonstrates the massive personal liability individuals can face.

• Local Chapter / Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, or student club involved can be sued as an entity itself, especially if it operates as a recognized organization or association.

• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters, which sets policies, provides guidance, collects dues, and often has ultimate authority over local chapters, can be held liable. Liability here often hinges on whether the national organization knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing (either at the specific chapter or across its system) and failed to intervene effectively. Evidence of prior incidents at other chapters of the same national organization can be critical for showing foreseeability.

• University or Governing Board: The institution itself (e.g., Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU) can be sued. The ease of suing varies:

  • Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) often invoke sovereign immunity under Texas law. However, exceptions can apply for gross negligence, willful misconduct, or certain violations like Title IX. Individual employees (deans, advisors, campus police) can sometimes be sued in their personal capacity.
  • Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) generally have less protection from sovereign immunity, making them more directly targetable.
    Arguments against universities often focus on negligent supervision, failure to enforce policies known to prevent hazing, or creating an environment where hazing was implicitly tolerated.

• Third Parties: Other entities can also bear responsibility:

  • Landlords or property owners: If hazing occurred on property they controlled, and they knew or should have known about dangerous activities but did nothing.
  • Bars or alcohol providers: Under “dram shop laws,” an establishment that over-serves alcohol to an intoxicated person who then causes harm can be liable.
  • Security companies or event organizers: If they had a duty to ensure safety but failed to do so.

Every hazing case involves a complex web of facts, and not every party will be liable in every situation. An experienced hazing attorney understands how to navigate these complexities and identify all potential avenues for accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

Major hazing cases from across the country serve as powerful anchors, illustrating recurring patterns, the devastating stakes, and the legal precedents that inform hazing litigation in Texas. For families in Crosby County, these stories underscore the critical importance of vigilance and legal action.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption remains the deadliest form of hazing, leading to tragic, yet often preventable, fatalities.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (February 2017): Timothy, a 19-year-old pledge, died from traumatic brain injuries and a ruptured spleen after a brutal “bid acceptance” night. He was forced to drink dangerous amounts of alcohol, fell multiple times, and was left without medical attention for hours while fraternity members attempted a horrific cover-up, captured on the chapter’s own security cameras. Following his death, 18 fraternity members faced over 1,000 criminal charges, including involuntary manslaughter. The Piazza family’s civil litigation resulted in confidential settlements. His death spurred the enactment of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, a landmark piece of legislation. This case epitomizes how extreme intoxication, a deliberate delay in calling 911, and a pervasive culture of silence can lead to tragic and legally devastating outcomes.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (November 2017): Andrew, also a 20-year-old pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and forced to consume dangerous quantities. Numerous members were prosecuted, and FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life, leading to significant policy overhauls statewide. This case highlights how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights with established protocols for excessive consumption are a repeating script for disaster in Greek life, not isolated incidents.

• Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (September 2017): Max, 18, died from alcohol toxicity with a blood-alcohol content of 0.495% after a “Bible study” drinking game. Pledges were forced to drink whenever they answered questions incorrectly. His death directly led to the establishment of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, a felony hazing statute, demonstrating how public outrage and clear proof of hazing can drive crucial legislative change. The Gruver family settled their civil claims, reportedly for $6.1 million from Phi Delta Theta’s insurer and others.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (March 2021): Stone, 20, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume nearly an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” pledge night. Multiple fraternity members were criminally convicted of hazing-related charges. His family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with approximately $7 million from the Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and $3 million from Bowling Green State University, the public institution. This landmark settlement shows that universities, even public ones, can face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside the fraternities themselves.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualistic hazing tragically persist, often involving extreme violence and delayed medical attention.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (December 2013): Michael, a 19-year-old pledge, died from a traumatic brain injury during a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. Blindfolded and carrying a heavy backpack, he was repeatedly tackled in a ritual known as the “glass ceiling.” Fraternity members delayed calling 911 for crucial hours. Multiple members were convicted, and the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and effectively banned from Pennsylvania for a decade. This case proved that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or worse than on-campus events, and national organizations can face severe sanctions for “unofficial” hazing.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing isn’t confined to Greek life; it infiltrates other seemingly prestigious student groups, including major athletic programs.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): In a widely publicized scandal, former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over multiple years. Multiple players sued Northwestern and its coaching staff. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired and later confidentially settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit. This demonstrates hazing is not limited to Greek life and that multi-million-dollar athletic programs can harbor systemic abuse, raising critical questions about institutional oversight.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These harrowing national examples share common, painful threads: forced drinking, humiliation, psychological torment, physical violence, dangerous delays in seeking medical care, and concerted cover-up efforts. They also frequently demonstrate that true reform and multi-million-dollar settlements often follow only after tragedy strikes and determined legal action is taken. For families in Crosby County whose children attend, or plan to attend, universities like Texas A&M, UT Austin, or Baylor, these national lessons are directly relevant. They highlight the types of dangers students face and provide a blueprint for how institutions (from local chapters to national organizations and universities) can be held accountable in Texas courts.

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

For families in Crosby County, understanding the specific hazing dynamics and institutional responses at major Texas universities is paramount. While Crosby County may feel distant from these campuses, families here send their children to these institutions. Knowing their policies, history, and legal avenues provides crucial peace of mind and preparedness. We’ll focus on five prominent Texas universities, detailing their cultures, policies, and relevant incidents.

University of Houston (UH)

5.1.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Houston, located in the dynamic heart of America’s fourth-largest city, is a large urban campus serving a diverse student body that includes both commuters and residential students. UH boasts a vibrant Greek life, encompassing numerous fraternities and sororities from various councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural chapters). Beyond Greek life, the campus supports a wide array of student organizations, including cultural groups, sports clubs, and spirit organizations, all of which can be environments for hazing if not properly supervised. Families in Crosby County sending students to UH will find a bustling, diverse environment.

5.1.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

UH maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly stating that hazing is prohibited whether it occurs on-campus or off-campus. The policy explicitly forbids forced consumption of alcohol, food, drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, branding, and any acts that cause mental distress, all when conducted for initiation or membership purposes. UH provides multiple reporting channels, including the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, the UH Police Department (UHPD), and online reporting forms. While UH has an anti-hazing statement on its website, historically, its public disclosure of specific violations has been less detailed compared to some other Texas universities.

5.1.3 Example incident & response

A significant incident that sheds light on UH’s hazing landscape involved Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ) in 2016. Pledges allegedly experienced severe deprivation of food, water, and sleep during a multi-day “initiation” event. One student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being violently slammed onto a table or similar surface. The local chapter faced both misdemeanor hazing charges and a university suspension.

Other disciplinary actions at UH have referenced fraternities whose behavior was found to be “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” often involving alcohol misuse and policy violations, leading to various tiers of suspensions or probations. These incidents highlight UH’s efforts to suspend or discipline chapters when hazing is discovered, but also underscore a common challenge: the persistence of hazing despite clear policies.

5.1.4 How a UH hazing case might proceed

If hazing were to occur involving a student from Crosby County attending UH, the involved law enforcement agencies could include both the UH Police Department (UHPD) for incidents happening on campus property, and/or the Houston Police Department (HPD) if the event took place off-campus within Houston city limits. Civil lawsuits arising from hazing at UH would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Potential defendants would include the individual students directly involved, the local chapter itself, the national fraternity or sorority (if there are patterns of similar misconduct across its chapters), and potentially the university itself and property owners where the hazing occurred.

5.1.5 What UH students & parents should do

For students attending UH from Crosby County or parents whose children are there:

• Familiarize yourselves with UH’s specific hazing policies and the formal reporting channels available through the Dean of Students office, UHPD, or online forms.
• If you suspect hazing, document everything your child tells you, and screenshot any digital evidence they may share.
• Understand that a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases can be critical in uncovering prior discipline, internal university files, and holding accountable parties answerable in the specific legal jurisdiction of Harris County.
• Promptly report any incidents to university officials, but consult with an attorney first to understand all your rights and options.

Texas A&M University

5.2.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Texas A&M University in College Station is famed for its deep-seated traditions and its unique Corps of Cadets, a military-style program that fosters a highly structured, tradition-heavy environment. This powerful culture, while unifying for many, can also create conditions ripe for hazing, both within the Corps and in its robust Greek life. Around 7,000 Aggie students participate in Greek organizations, including IFC, Collegiate Panhellenic Council (CPC), Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), and National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) chapters. Students from Crosby County often find a strong connection to A&M, given its significant presence in the state and the numerous Aggie alumni living in the region.

5.2.2 Hazing policy & reporting channels

Texas A&M unequivocally prohibits hazing, articulating clear policies against any intentional, knowing, or reckless acts that endanger the physical or mental health of a student for the purpose of initiation or membership. The university emphasizes that consent of the victim is not a defense to hazing. Reporting channels include the Dean of Student Life, the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMU PD), and various online reporting platforms. The university, like all public institutions in Texas, is obligated to publish certain hazing violation reports, but the breadth of public detail on these reports can vary.

5.2.3 Example incident & response

Texas A&M has faced multiple prominent hazing allegations in recent years:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) Lawsuit (around 2021): This case involved two pledges who alleged they were covered in a mixture of industrial-strength cleaner, eggs, and spit, causing severe chemical burns that required skin graft surgeries. The fraternity was suspended for two years by the university, and the pledges took legal action seeking $1 million in damages. This incident underlines the extreme physical dangers some hazing tactics involve.
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading and explicit sexualized hazing. He claimed he was subjected to simulated sexual acts and tied in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, while the university stated it addressed the matter through its internal processes, highlighting the challenges of accountability within long-standing traditions.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ) (2023, ongoing): Allegations surfaced of hazing resulting in severe injuries, including rhabdomyolysis – a serious muscle breakdown from extreme physical activity – in pledges. This type of injury is a clear indicator of dangerous overexertion during hazing rituals.

These incidents underscore that hazing at Texas A&M is a serious and recurring issue, occurring in both Greek life and within the Corps of Cadets.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M hazing case might proceed

A hazing case involving a student from Crosby County attending Texas A&M would likely involve the Texas A&M University Police Department for on-campus incidents or relevant local law enforcement for off-campus events in Bryan or College Station. Civil suits would be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Brazos County. Potential defendants would again include the individuals, the local chapter, the national organization, and potentially the university itself, given its oversight of both Greek life and the Corps. Cases involving the Corps of Cadets can be particularly complex due to the military-style structure and deep-rooted traditions.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M students & parents should do

For Aggie families in Crosby County:

• Be highly aware of the unique dynamics within both Texas A&M’s Greek life and the Corps of Cadets, and the potential for hazing that exists within both spheres.
• Document any signs of hazing immediately, whether emotional distress or physical injury. The chemical burn or rhabdomyolysis cases are clear indicators of severe harm.
• Reporting to the Dean of Student Life or TAMU PD is important, but consulting with a legal team experienced in Texas A&M’s internal processes and the specific courts in Brazos County is highly advisable.

University of Texas at Austin (UT)

5.3.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest and most prestigious public universities in Texas, drawing students from every corner of the state, including Crosby County. UT Austin boasts a massive, diverse student body housed in a bustling urban environment with a strong academic reputation. Its social scene is equally robust, defined by an expansive Greek life ecosystem (IFC, Panhellenic Council, NPHC, Texas Asian Pan-Hellenic Council (TAPC), and other multicultural groups) and a deep bench of student organizations, athletics, and spirit groups. UT’s campus culture is vibrant and competitive, providing both immense opportunities and, at times, significant pressures.

5.3.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

UT Austin maintains a clear and comprehensive anti-hazing policy that mirrors Texas state law, prohibiting any act that endangers the physical or mental health of a student for initiation or membership purposes. What sets UT apart is its proactive approach to transparency: the university publicly lists hazing violations on its website under the “Hazing Violations” page, detailing the organization, specific conduct, and sanctions. Reporting avenues include the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD), and anonymous online reporting forms.

5.3.3 Example incident & response

UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations webpage is a critical resource for understanding recurring issues. It documents numerous incidents across various organizations. For example:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ) (2023): The chapter was disciplined after new members were directed to consume milk and then perform strenuous calisthenics, followed by an “interrogation” with degrading remarks. This was found to be hazing, leading to the chapter being placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Texas Wranglers (Spirit Organization): This well-known spirit organization has faced multiple sanctions over the years for hazing activities involving forced workouts, alcohol abuse, “pledge runs,” and other punishment-based practices targeting new members.
• Other fraternities and student organizations have been sanctioned for violations ranging from forced alcohol consumption to physical activities endangering new members’ health.

UT’s commitment to public disclosure, while laudable, also highlights the persistent nature of hazing even at institutions with clear policies and enforcement mechanisms. This transparency can be invaluable for families building a civil hazing case, as prior violations directly demonstrate a pattern of misconduct and the university’s prior knowledge.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin hazing case might proceed

If a student from Crosby County were involved in a hazing incident at UT Austin, law enforcement could include both the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) for on-campus incidents, or the Austin Police Department (APD) for off-campus events within Austin city limits. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Travis County. Specific legal challenges in UT cases can include navigating the university’s response procedures and leveraging the publicly available hazing violation data to support claims against the organization and potentially the university.

5.3.5 What UT Austin students & parents should do

For families in Crosby County with students at UT Austin:

• Regularly consult UT’s official “Hazing Violations” page (hazing.utexas.edu) to understand the track record of specific organizations.
• Emphasize to your child the importance of documenting any coercion, physical harm, or psychological abuse. Screenshots of group chats are particularly valuable.
• If hazing occurs, report it to the Dean of Students or UTPD, but crucially, consult with an attorney experienced in Travis County litigation. This helps ensure evidence is preserved and your rights are fully protected against a university with sophisticated legal counsel.

Southern Methodist University (SMU)

5.4.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Southern Methodist University, nestled in the affluent University Park neighborhood of Dallas, is a private university renowned for its academic excellence, beautiful campus, and strong, traditional Greek presence. SMU’s Greek life is a central component of its social scene, with a significant percentage of students participating in its Panhellenic Council, Interfraternity Council (IFC), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek organizations. Students from Crosby County attending SMU would find an environment where social affiliations can carry considerable weight.

5.4.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

SMU maintains a clear anti-hazing policy that is consistent with Texas law, prohibiting any acts that endanger the physical or mental health of students for membership or initiation purposes. The university explicitly states that “actual or apparent consent of the student who is the object of the hazing is not a defense to disciplinary action.” SMU provides multiple reporting mechanisms, including the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, and campus police. They also utilize confidential online reporting systems like “Real Response” to encourage anonymous tips.

5.4.3 Example incident & response

SMU has faced its share of hazing allegations, particularly within its prominent Greek community:

• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ) (2017): The national fraternity chapter at SMU was suspended after reports of severe hazing. Allegations included new members being paddled, forced to drink alcohol to excess, and deprived of sleep. The university imposed a multi-year suspension, restricting the chapter’s activities and recruiting efforts until around 2021.
• Other incidents at SMU, though not always resulting in public lawsuits or detailed public reports due to its private institution status, have highlighted recurring issues with alcohol abuse, physical intimidation, and inappropriate initiation rituals within various Greek organizations.

These incidents demonstrate that even at private universities with strict policies, hazing remains a persistent challenge that requires continuous vigilance and enforcement.

5.4.4 How an SMU hazing case might proceed

For a student from Crosby County experiencing hazing at SMU, investigations would typically involve the SMU Police Department for campus-related incidents or the Dallas Police Department for off-campus events within Dallas. Civil lawsuits against SMU, its student organizations, or national fraternities would be filed in courts located in Dallas County. Suing a private university like SMU differs from a public one like UT or Texas A&M, as SMU is generally not afforded the same sovereign immunity protections. This can sometimes make it more straightforward to pursue claims directly against the institution.

5.4.5 What SMU students & parents should do

For Crosby County families with students at SMU:

• Understand SMU’s robust Greek culture and the social pressures it can entail.
• Be aware that while SMU publishes disciplinary actions, the level of detail might vary compared to public university reports.
• If you suspect hazing, utilize SMU’s reporting mechanisms but also seek independent legal advice. An attorney familiar with Dallas County legal frameworks and with experience navigating private university policies can provide invaluable guidance, helping to gather evidence that might otherwise remain hidden.

Baylor University

5.5.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Baylor University, located in Waco, Texas, is the oldest continuously operating university in Texas and the largest Baptist university in the world. It is celebrated for its Christian mission, strong academic programs, and passionate student body. The university’s culture is deeply rooted in tradition and community values. Baylor has a substantial Greek life presence, including Panhellenic, IFC, NPHC, and multicultural Greek chapters, alongside many other student organizations and competitive athletic programs. Even though Crosby County is a few hours away, its residents occasionally choose Baylor for its distinct academic and faith-based environment.

5.5.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

Baylor University strictly prohibits hazing, defining it broadly under its Student Conduct Code—in line with Texas state law—to include any intentional or negligent act that causes or is reasonably likely to cause physical or psychological harm or injury for initiation or continued affiliation. Baylor emphasizes that “consent or willingness to participate in the activity is not a defense.” Reporting channels include the Baylor Department of Public Safety (BUDPS), the Dean of Students office, and a confidential hotline/online reporting system called “EthicsPoint.” Baylor also publishes a list of organizational sanctions, including hazing violations, on its website.

5.5.3 Example incident & response

Baylor has faced significant scrutiny over institutional oversight in recent years, particularly concerning sexual assault and its athletic programs. This context is important when considering its response to hazing:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): Following an internal investigation into hazing allegations within the baseball program, 14 players were suspended. The university confirmed hazing occurred and that the suspensions were staggered to minimize direct impact on team activities while still holding individuals accountable. This incident highlighted that hazing extends beyond Greek life into other prominent student groups at Baylor.
• While specific multi-million dollar hazing lawsuits against Baylor that have reached public settlement have not been as frequent as at some other large Texas universities, the university’s prior history of handling sensitive student misconduct cases underscores the complexity of seeking accountability.

These incidents, coupled with Baylor’s broader institutional challenges around student safety, illustrate the need for diligent oversight and robust response when hazing emerges.

5.5.4 How a Baylor hazing case might proceed

If hazing were to occur involving a student from Crosby County at Baylor, formal investigations could involve the Baylor Department of Public Safety (BUDPS) for on-campus incidents or the Waco Police Department for events occurring within city limits. Civil lawsuits against Baylor, its student organizations, or national fraternities would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over McLennan County. Challenging a private, faith-based institution like Baylor can involve unique considerations related to its internal governance and public image, requiring sophisticated legal strategy.

5.5.5 What Baylor students & parents should do

For families in Crosby County whose children attend Baylor:

• Be highly attuned to the university’s specific conduct code and reporting mechanisms, as well as its public list of organizational sanctions.
• Understand that while Baylor’s Christian mission emphasizes community, this does not make its student body immune to hazing dynamics.
• If hazing is suspected, utilize Baylor’s official reporting channels, but critically, consult with a legal team experienced in navigating the legal and cultural complexities of institutions like Baylor in McLennan County. This proactive step ensures your rights are protected and that any incident is thoroughly investigated.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

The recurring patterns of hazing across different campuses and states are not coincidental. They reveal systemic issues, often tied to the specific practices and historical oversight (or lack thereof) from national fraternity and sorority organizations. For Crosby County families to pursue justice effectively, it’s essential to understand how a local chapter’s actions on a Texas campus are often connected to a national organization’s broader history.

Why National Histories Matter

Most fraternities and sororities at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor are part of larger national organizations. These national headquarters:

• Develop the official policies, anti-hazing rules, and risk management guidelines for their local chapters.
• Collect dues and maintain active communication with their chapters.
• Hold ultimate authority to charter, suspend, or revoke chapters.

Crucially, these national organizations have implemented anti-hazing policies because they have seen deaths and catastrophic injuries in the past. They are keenly aware of common hazing patterns—from forced drinking nights and physical “traditions” to humiliating rituals—that have led to severe consequences at chapters nationwide.

When a local chapter in Texas, say a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter at UH or a Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter at Texas A&M, repeats the same type of hazing that caused injury or death at another chapter in a different state, this can be critical evidence. It shows foreseeability and prior knowledge on the part of the national organization. It demonstrates that the national entity was (or should have been) on notice about potentially dangerous behaviors but failed to adequately intervene, supervise, or enforce its own policies. This pattern evidence can significantly strengthen a negligence argument against the national organization in civil litigation.

Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

Many of the fraternities and sororities with chapters at Texas universities have national organizations that have been embroiled in hazing controversies elsewhere. Understanding these connections can provide a broader context for local incidents:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity has chapters across Texas campuses, including UH and UT Austin. Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha has a deeply troubling history with hazing, particularly involving extreme alcohol consumption during “Big/Little” events. The death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University (2021) and David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University (2012) vividly demonstrate this pattern. Both cases involved pledges dying from alcohol poisoning during fraternity events, leading to multi-million dollar settlements and criminal convictions. These prior incidents provide strong evidence that Pi Kappa Alpha’s national leadership has long-standing knowledge of these dangerous rituals.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): SAE is a large national fraternity with a history of serious hazing incidents. Chapters exist at Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. Nationally, SAE has faced multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries. In response, they famously eliminated their traditional pledge process in 2014, a drastic move acknowledging a pattern of issues. However, incidents persist: a student alleged a traumatic brain injury at the University of Alabama (2023), and specific Texas chapters have also had problems. At Texas A&M, two pledges alleged receiving chemical burns from industrial cleaner during hazing (2021), and at UT Austin, an exchange student recently sued alleging assault at an SAE party (2024). These cases suggest a continued challenge in ensuring safety across all chapters.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): With chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, Phi Delta Theta’s national organization was impacted by the tragic death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University (2017). Max died from alcohol poisoning during a forced drinking game. This incident led to the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana and substantial civil settlements, serving as a powerful warning to other chapters and the national organization about the dangers of forced alcohol consumption.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Chapters of Pi Kappa Phi are present at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. The national fraternity was linked to the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017), who died from alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. This incident led to criminal prosecutions and a campus-wide suspension of Greek life at FSU, providing further evidence of specific, dangerous hazing rituals tied to this national organization.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Kappa Sigma has chapters across Texas, including UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. Nationally, one of its most notable hazing cases involved Chad Meredith at the University of Miami (2001), who drowned after being persuaded by fraternity members to swim across a lake while intoxicated. A jury awarded his parents $12.6 million, highlighting that hazing extends beyond forced drinking to general endangerment. More recently, allegations of severe injuries, including rhabdomyolysis, from hazing have emerged at Texas A&M (2023).

• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): With chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU, Beta Theta Pi is tragically associated with the death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State University (2017). Timothy’s death initiated massive criminal prosecutions and forced significant changes in Pennsylvania’s anti-hazing laws. This case exemplifies the extreme dangers of delayed medical care and the culture of silence prevalent in some hazing incidents.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, and Baylor, Sigma Chi recently faced a settlement of over $10 million from a College of Charleston hazing incident (2024) where a pledge alleged physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, and psychological torment. This serves as a stark reminder of the financial consequences for severe hazing.

• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI): While not explicitly listed at all five Texas universities in the Greek rosters, FIJI is a national fraternity with a presence at Texas A&M and other Texas schools (e.g., University of Texas at Dallas). The case of Danny Santulli at the University of Missouri (2021) is a profound example of devastating non-fatal hazing. Danny suffered severe, permanent brain damage after acute alcohol poisoning during a “pledge dad reveal” event. His family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants for multi-million dollar amounts, demonstrating the potential for catastrophic injuries and widespread liability even without a fatality.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

These detailed national and chapter-specific histories are not just cautionary tales; they form a critical component of a robust legal strategy.

• When an organization has a documented pattern of hazing across states and campuses, it becomes very difficult for them to claim they had no prior warning or knowledge. This establishes foreseeability, a key element in negligence claims.
• Such patterns can be used in civil litigation to demonstrate that national organizations either:
  • Failed to enforce their own anti-hazing policies, rendering them mere “paper policies.”
  • Responded to prior incidents with insufficient severity, essentially condoning the behavior.
• This evidence can significantly impact:
  • Settlement leverage: forcing defendants to offer higher compensation.
  • Insurance coverage disputes: helping to overcome exclusions for “intentional acts” by demonstrating broader negligence.
  • Potential for punitive damages: in cases where conduct exhibits gross negligence or a callous indifference to known risks.
    Understanding these connections allows our firm to build powerful cases for Crosby County families, holding accountable not just the individuals directly involved, but also the institutions that enabled the hazing to occur.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Successfully navigating a hazing lawsuit requires meticulous attention to detail, a deep understanding of the law, and the ability to gather and present compelling evidence. For families in Crosby County, this means building a case that meticulously documents the harm suffered and links it directly to the negligent or reckless actions of the responsible parties.

Evidence

In today’s digital world, evidence collection strategies have evolved dramatically, particularly for hazing cases:

• Digital Communications: These are often the most crucial pieces of evidence. GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and fraternity-specific apps are commonly used to plan, share instructions, and even document hazing. We look for and meticulously preserve:

  • Messages showing planning, intent, knowledge, and patterns of hazing.
  • Explicit instructions for hazing activities.
  • Photos or videos shared within these chats.
  • Any discussions about covering up incidents or coaching members on what to say.
  • Even deleted messages can often be recovered through digital forensics, but original screenshots are always best. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos.

• Photos & Videos: Beyond group chats, these can come from other sources:

  • Content filmed by members during hazing events, often for their own entertainment.
  • Footage posted on social media (Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok) that may be deleted quickly.
  • Surveillance camera footage from houses, common areas, or nearby businesses can capture entrances, exits, and the condition of students.

• Internal Organization Documents: These can reveal a pattern of knowledge or neglect:

  • Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, or lists of “traditions” that contain hazing elements.
  • Emails or texts from officers or advisors about “new member education.”
  • National organization policies, training materials, and correspondence with local chapters about prior incidents.

• University Records: Through discovery in a lawsuit, we can often obtain:

  • Prior conduct files, probation notices, and past suspensions related to the same organization.
  • Incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices.
  • Clery Act reports and other crime statistics which may show patterns of related misconduct.
  • Internal communications among administrators concerning the organization.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the extent of the victim’s injuries and suffering:

  • Emergency room visits, ambulance reports, and hospitalization records.
  • Records of surgeries, ongoing medical treatment, and physical therapy.
  • Toxicology reports, especially in alcohol or drug-related hazing cases.
  • Psychological evaluations that diagnose PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions resulting from the trauma of hazing.

• Witness Testimony: Firsthand accounts are powerful:

  • Other pledges or new members who experienced or witnessed the hazing.
  • Current or former members who are willing to speak up.
  • Roommates, resident advisors (RAs), coaches, trainers, or other bystanders who observed changes in behavior or the immediate aftermath.

Damages

When hazing leads to injury or death, the law aims to provide monetary compensation for the harm suffered. For Crosby County families, understanding these “damages” helps clarify what type of recovery may be possible:

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs associated with physical and psychological treatment. It includes emergency room visits, ambulance transport, hospital stays (including ICU), surgeries, medications, physical or occupational therapy, and ongoing counseling. For catastrophic injuries, like permanent brain damage, this can include a “life care plan” estimating future expenses over decades.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This category accounts for financial losses due to the hazing. It includes wages lost if the student or a parent had to take time off work. It also covers the economic impact of delayed graduation, lost scholarships, or even a diminished future earning capacity if the injuries (physical or psychological) are so severe that they permanently affect the student’s ability to work.

• Non-Economic Damages: These intangible losses are often the most profound. They include:

  • Physical pain and suffering from injuries.
  • Emotional distress, trauma, and humiliation — the profound psychological impact of being victimized.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life – the inability to participate in activities once loved, or a general reduction in the quality of life.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): When hazing results in a fatality, specific family members (such as parents, spouses, and children) can pursue a wrongful death claim. This typically includes:

  • Funeral and burial costs.
  • Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided.
  • Loss of companionship, love, and society experienced by family members.
  • Grief and emotional suffering endured by the surviving family.

We note that these are types of damages and not guaranteed amounts. Actual outcomes will vary based on the specific facts and applicable law.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Pursuing a hazing claim often means confronting well-funded institutions represented by sophisticated defense teams. National fraternities, universities, and their insurers will often employ strategies to limit their liability.

• Insurance policies held by national fraternities, local chapters, and universities are crucial in these cases. However, insurers frequently try to avoid coverage, arguing that hazing, as an “intentional act” or “criminal conduct,” is excluded from their policies.
• Experienced hazing lawyers are adept at navigating these complex insurance coverage disputes. They work to identify all potential sources of recovery, push back against unfair exclusions, and demonstrate that even if the hazing itself was an “intentional act,” the national organization’s or university’s negligent supervision, failure to enforce policies, or reckless disregard for student safety should trigger coverage. Our firm, including Lupe Peña with her background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), understands how these insurance companies operate from the inside out. This knowledge is invaluable when fighting for fair compensation for our clients in Crosby County and across Texas.

Practical Guides & FAQs

When hazing strikes, immediate, practical advice is essential. These guides are for families in Crosby County, students anywhere in Texas, and even former members grappling with conscience.

For Parents in Crosby County

Detecting hazing can be challenging as victims are often pressured into secrecy. Look for these warning signs:

• Unexplained injuries: Bruises, cuts, burns, or repeated “accidents,” especially if your child is vague or evasive about how they occurred.
• Extreme fatigue: Persistent exhaustion, sleep deprivation, or falling asleep at unusual times, indicating mandatory late-night activities.
• Drastic mood changes: Sudden anxiety, depression, irritability, withdrawal from family/friends, or a marked change in personality.
• Forced secrecy: Phrases like “I can’t talk about it,” “it’s a secret,” or “you wouldn’t understand” when asked about group activities.
• Constant phone vigilance: Excessive checking of group chats, anxiety when the phone pings, or receiving calls/texts at odd hours requiring immediate responses.
• Poor academic performance: A sudden drop in grades, missed classes, or inability to concentrate due to group obligations.
• Loss of interest: No longer engaging in hobbies or activities they once loved.
• New, odd behaviors: Exhibiting unusual fear of “getting in trouble,” expressing an intense need to please older members, or talking about “just having to get through this.”

How to talk to your child:

• Approach the conversation gently, without judgment or accusations.
• Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priorities, far above any group loyalty.
• Reassure them that you will support them regardless of what they share.
• Ask open-ended questions: “How are things going with your group? Are you truly enjoying it? Is anything making you uncomfortable?”

If your child is hurt:

• Seek immediate medical care. Your child’s health is paramount. Do not delay.
• Document everything. Take detailed photos of injuries (multiple angles, over several days), screenshot any relevant texts or social media messages, and write down everything your child recounts while it’s fresh in your memory.
• Contact us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Evidence disappears quickly.

Dealing with the university:

• Document every communication with university administrators. Note names, dates, times, and what was discussed.
• Ask specifically if the organization in question has a history of prior hazing incidents.
• However, do NOT sign any “release” or “resolution” forms from the university without legal review. These agreements can sometimes waive your child’s rights to further legal action.

For Students / Pledges in Texas

If you are a student, perhaps from Crosby County, currently pledging or involved in any group in Texas, and you’re questioning whether your experience is hazing, ask yourself:

• Am I being forced or pressured—directly or indirectly—to do something I don’t want to do?
• Would I do this activity if there were no social consequences or fear of being “cut” from the group?
• Is this activity dangerous, humiliating, degrading, or illegal?
• Would older members of this group do the exact same things if they were in my position?
• Am I being told to keep secrets from my family, friends outside the group, or university officials?

If you answered YES to any of these, it is very likely hazing. Remember, Texas law explicitly states that your “consent” is not a defense to hazing. The law recognizes that true consent is impossible in a coercive environment with a power imbalance.

Exiting and reporting safely:

• If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or campus police without hesitation. Texas law, like many university policies, provides protections for individuals who seek medical help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or other minor infractions were involved.
• You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time. Inform someone outside the organization first (a trusted parent, RA, or campus counselor).
• If you fear retaliation after leaving or reporting, document anything you perceive as retaliation and report it to the Dean of Students or campus police immediately. Texas law protects you from such actions.

For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were once involved in hazing, either as a participant or an unwilling witness, and now carry guilt or fear, know that your testimony can be instrumental in preventing future harm and saving lives.

• Your evidence could be the key to holding dangerous organizations and individuals accountable.
• While you may have concerns about your own legal exposure, it is crucial to seek your own legal counsel to understand your rights and options. We can help you navigate this complex situation, advising you on how to cooperate, potentially mitigate your own risks, and ensure your story is heard effectively.

Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Hazing Case

For families in Crosby County and across Texas, avoiding common missteps after a hazing incident is paramount to protecting your child’s rights and building a strong legal case.

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

   • Why it’s wrong: While you might want to protect your child from further trouble, deleting evidence looks like a cover-up and makes it nearly impossible to prove what happened. Digital forensics can often recover deleted data, but original evidence is always best.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately—screenshots of group chats, photos, videos. Even embarrassing content can be vital.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • Why it’s wrong: Such confrontations almost always backfire. The organization will immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defenses. This makes our job of gathering unvarnished facts much harder.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in private, then call an experienced hazing lawyer before any direct communication with the organization.

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

   • Why it’s wrong: Universities often pressure families to sign waivers or internal resolution agreements. These may waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit, and any “settlement” offered by the university is typically a fraction of what your child’s injuries are truly worth.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university without having an attorney review it first.

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

   • Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys will screenshot every post. Any inconsistencies in your public statements, or even emotional posts, can be used to discredit your child or compromise your case.
   • What to do instead: Keep details private. Your lawyer can advise on how and when to release information.

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

   • Why it’s wrong: Organizations often attempt to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements from new members who are considering leaving or reporting. This can severely damage a case.
   • What to do instead: If you are considering legal action, all communication from the organization should be directed through your lawyer.

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

   • Why it’s wrong: Evidence rapidly disappears, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations can run out. Universities prioritize their own reputation and often control the narrative, which may not align with genuine accountability for your child.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW. Consult a lawyer immediately. The university’s internal process is aimed at institutional self-preservation, not necessarily your legal recovery.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Any recorded statement you make can be used against you, and they will likely offer a lowball settlement early on.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with any insurance adjuster and tell them your attorney will contact them.

Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) often have some sovereign immunity protection under state law, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, certain intentional acts, Title IX violations, and when suing individual employees in their personal capacity. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. While hazing is typically a Class B misdemeanor, it becomes a state jail felony under Texas law if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This means potential prison time and significant fines for those responsible. Officers of an organization who fail to report hazing can also face misdemeanor charges.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Absolutely. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts and juries understand that “agreeing” to an initiation activity when under immense peer pressure, fear of exclusion, or influence of alcohol and group dynamics is not true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits in Texas must be filed within two years from the date of injury or death. However, particular circumstances, such as a prolonged cover-up or if the victim was a minor, might extend this under the “discovery rule” or other tolling doctrines. Time is always critical—evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to discuss your specific timeline. Learn more 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 for responsible parties. Universities and national fraternities/sororities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship of the organization, their knowledge of dangerous activities, and their failure to adequately supervise—even if the event occurred off-campus or in a private residence. Several major national hazing cases, including the Pi Delta Psi retreat death and the Sigma Pi unofficial house death, occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments against both the local and national organizations.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing-related civil lawsuits settle confidentially before ever reaching a public trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy and work to secure confidential settlement terms and, where possible, sealed court records. While total anonymity can never be guaranteed due to public interest laws or the nature of certain events, we strive to minimize public exposure while fiercely pursuing accountability.

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. This is precisely what The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, The Legal Emergency Lawyers™, offers to families in Crosby County and across Texas.

From our main office in Houston, and additional offices in Austin and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Crosby County and its surrounding areas. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families from our largest cities to the smallest communities, and we are committed to being there for you.

Our firm brings unique qualifications to hazing litigation:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our Associate Attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable experience as a former insurance defense attorney at a national law firm (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/). She knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value—and undervalue—hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments (such as claims that intentional acts aren’t covered), and settlement strategies because she used to be on their side. This insider knowledge is a significant asset when we fight to maximize compensation for our clients.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Founding Partner Ralph P. Manginello has a proven track record in complex litigation, including being one of the few Texas plaintiffs’ firms involved in the massive BP Texas City explosion litigation. This federal court experience (United States District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, multi-billion-dollar universities, or their deep-pocketed defense teams. We’ve taken on massive corporations and won. We know how to fight powerful defendants. You can learn more about Ralph Manginello’s credentials at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have secured substantial settlements and verdicts in complex wrongful death cases (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), working with economists to value the true loss of life and the long-term care needs for catastrophic injuries, such as brain damage. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force genuine accountability.
• Criminal and Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph P. Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a crucial understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual expertise allows us to skillfully advise families when criminal investigations are underway, and ensure that our civil strategies complement potential criminal outcomes.
• Investigative Depth: We invest heavily in robust investigations. Our network of experts includes medical specialists, digital forensics specialists (critical for recovering deleted group chats and social media data), economists, and psychologists. We meticulously subpoena national fraternity records, university conduct files, and other hidden evidence. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

We understand how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments operate behind closed doors, and how to effectively investigate modern hazing that utilizes digital channels and sophisticated cover-ups. What makes hazing cases different is the combination of powerful institutional defendants, complex insurance coverage fights, and the need to balance victim privacy with the pursuit of public accountability. We blend legal precision with an empathetic approach because we know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We value thorough investigation and real accountability over quick settlements.

Call to Action: Your Legal Emergency Lawyers™ Are Here for Crosby County

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether it’s a closer institution like Texas Tech for families from Crosby County, or one of the major universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor—we want to hear from you. Families in Crosby County and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

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, free of charge.

In your free consultation, you can expect us to:

• Listen to your story without judgment, providing a safe space to share.
• Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records) and advise on preserving more.
• Explain your legal options, including reporting to the police, pursuing a civil lawsuit, or a combination of both.
• Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect during the legal process.
• Answer your questions about costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Watch our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc
• Offer transparent advice without pressure to hire us on the spot.

Don’t delay. Evidence disappears quickly, and every moment counts.

Call The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911 today:

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

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

Whether you’re in Crosby 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.

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