Hazing in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide for Cross Plains Families Seeking Justice and Accountability

From Cross Plains to College Campus: When “Tradition” Becomes Trauma

It starts quietly, almost invisibly. A phone call from your child at Abilene Christian University or Hardin-Simmons University—schools where many Cross Plains students continue their education. Their voice sounds different—strained, exhausted, maybe a little scared. Or perhaps you notice the changes during a weekend visit home to our Callahan County community: unexplained bruises, sudden weight loss, a once-vibrant young adult now anxious and withdrawn. They dismiss your concerns with vague explanations about “team bonding” or “pledge activities” at their fraternity, sorority, Corps program, or campus organization. But as parents who have raised children in the close-knit values of Cross Plains, you know something is wrong.

What you’re witnessing may be hazing—not the harmless pranks of movies, but systematic abuse that has hospitalized and killed college students across Texas and nationwide. Right now, in Houston, our firm represents Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter. His story—detailing forced humiliation, physical torture including being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” extreme workouts leading to rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, and a four-day hospitalization after passing brown urine—is not an isolated incident. It is proof that even in 2025, dangerous hazing persists at Texas universities where Cross Plains families send their children.

This comprehensive guide serves Cross Plains parents and students who need answers about hazing. We’ll explain what modern hazing really looks like, how Texas law protects victims, what we’ve learned from national tragedies, and how hazing manifests at Texas universities—from our local institutions like Abilene Christian and Hardin-Simmons to major campuses like Texas A&M, UT Austin, University of Houston, SMU, and Baylor. Most importantly, we’ll explain how experienced legal counsel can help families in our community pursue accountability when universities and organizations fail to protect their students.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

The Modern Definition: Coercion Disguised as Tradition

For Cross Plains families unfamiliar with today’s campus culture, hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, maintaining membership in, or gaining status within a group, where the behavior:

Endangers physical or mental health
Causes humiliation, degradation, or abuse
Exploits the power imbalance between new and established members

Critically, “I agreed to it” or “I wanted to fit in” does not make hazing legal or safe when there is peer pressure, fear of exclusion, and power dynamics at play. Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing.

The Four Categories of Modern Hazing

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing

Forced consumption during “Big/Little” nights, bid acceptance parties, or drinking games
“Lineup” challenges where pledges must rapidly consume alcohol
Pressure to consume unknown mixtures or dangerous quantities
The Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi case at UH involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed immediately by sprints

2. Physical Hazing and Endurance Tests

Paddling, beatings, or physical assaults
Extreme calisthenics (“smokings”) far beyond normal conditioning
Sleep deprivation through all-night activities or early wake-ups
Exposure to extreme temperatures or dangerous environments
In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, Bermudez was forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single session, leading to catastrophic muscle breakdown

3. Sexualized, Humiliating, and Psychological Hazing

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts, degrading positions, or humiliating costumes
Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from support systems
Public shaming in meetings or on social media
Racial, sexist, or homophobic degradation
The “pledge fanny pack” in the UH case—containing condoms, sex toys, and humiliating items that had to be carried 24/7

4. Digital and Psychological Control

24/7 group chat monitoring with instant response demands
Geo-tracking via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
Forced social media challenges or compromising content creation
Psychological manipulation through “guilt trips” about “letting down the brotherhood/sisterhood”

Where Hazing Happens: Beyond Fraternity Row

While Greek organizations receive significant attention, hazing occurs across campus:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural groups)
Corps of Cadets, ROTC, and Military-Style Programs
Athletic Teams (from football to cheerleading)
Spirit and Tradition Organizations (Texas Cowboys-type groups)
Marching Bands and Performance Groups
Academic, Service, and Cultural Organizations

The common thread: social status, tradition, and secrecy keep these practices alive even when participants “know” hazing is wrong.

Texas Hazing Law: What Cross Plains Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Child’s Legal Protections

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions that govern cases involving Cross Plains students at any Texas university. Under § 37.151, hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers mental or physical health or safety, AND
Occurs for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any student organization

Key Provisions for Cross Plains Families:

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing without serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death
Also criminal: Failing to report hazing or retaliating against reporters

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability:

Organizations can be prosecuted if they authorized hazing or if officers knew but failed to report
Penalties: Fines up to $10,000 per violation, plus university sanctions

§ 37.154 Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting:

Those who report hazing in good faith receive immunity from civil/criminal liability
Medical amnesty often applies for underage drinking when seeking emergency help

§ 37.155 Consent Not a Defense:

“Even if the victim agreed, it’s still hazing”—this directly counters the most common defense

§ 37.156 Institutional Reporting Requirements:

Texas colleges must provide prevention education and publish annual hazing reports
Creates public records families can use to document organizational patterns

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Dual Pathways

Criminal Prosecution (State vs. Individuals/Orgs):

Brought by prosecutors in the county where hazing occurred
Aims for punishment: jail, fines, probation
Common charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatalities
Example: In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, criminal referrals were made alongside the civil lawsuit

Civil Litigation (Victims vs. Responsible Parties):

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aims for compensation and accountability
Legal theories: negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision
Can proceed regardless of criminal case outcomes

Why Both Matter for Cross Plains Families:

Criminal convictions can strengthen civil cases through collateral estoppel
Civil discovery can uncover evidence for criminal investigations
Each path serves different purposes: punishment vs. compensation and institutional reform

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
Mandates public hazing data by approximately 2026
Strengthens prevention education requirements

Title IX and Clery Act:

Title IX applies when hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility
Clery requires reporting certain campus crimes—hazing often overlaps with assault, alcohol, or drug violations
These federal frameworks create additional obligations for universities

Who Can Be Liable: The Chain of Accountability

When hazing injures a Cross Plains student, multiple parties may share liability:

1. Individual Perpetrators:

Members who planned, executed, or concealed hazing
Officers who knew but failed to intervene

2. Local Chapters/Organizations:

The fraternity, sorority, or club as a legal entity
Housing corporations that own facilities where hazing occurs

3. National Organizations:

Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
Liability hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents

4. Universities and Governing Boards:

Schools may be liable for negligent supervision or deliberate indifference
Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity limitations but exceptions exist
Private universities (SMU, Baylor, Abilene Christian) face different standards

5. Third Parties:

Property owners/landlords of off-campus venues
Alcohol providers under dram shop laws
Security companies that facilitated unsafe environments

The UH Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit demonstrates comprehensive liability targeting: 13 individual members, the Beta Nu chapter, the Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, the chapter housing corporation, the University of Houston, and the UH System Board of Regents.

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Deadliest Pattern

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

Bid acceptance night with forced drinking captured on chapter security cameras
Multiple falls, delayed medical response, fatal injuries
Legal impact: 18 members charged with 1,000+ counts; Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law; permanent chapter ban

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

“Big Brother Night” with handle-of-liquor consumption
Death from acute alcohol poisoning
Legal impact: Multiple prosecutions; FSU suspended all Greek life temporarily

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

“Bible study” drinking game with wrong answers requiring consumption
Fatal alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
Legal impact: Felony hazing convictions; Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act

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

Forced to consume nearly entire bottle of whiskey
Death from alcohol poisoning
Legal impact: $10 million settlement ($7M from national Pike, ~$3M from BGSU); multiple criminal convictions

Physical and Ritualized Violence

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

Blindfolded, weighted “glass ceiling” ritual at off-campus retreat
Fatal traumatic brain injury; delayed emergency response
Legal impact: National fraternity criminally convicted; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years; $110,000+ fines

Danny Santulli – Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)

“Pledge dad reveal” drinking event
Severe permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
Legal impact: Settlements with 22 defendants; chapter closure

Athletic Program Hazing Scandals

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing over multiple years
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Legal impact: Head coach fired; confidential settlement in wrongful-termination suit

What These Cases Mean for Cross Plains Families

These national tragedies established critical precedents:

Pattern Evidence Matters: When Texas chapters repeat behaviors that caused deaths elsewhere, courts recognize foreseeability
Organizational Liability is Real: Nationals cannot hide behind “rogue chapter” defenses when patterns exist
Cover-Ups Worsen Outcomes: Delayed medical care and evidence destruction increase liability
Civil Remedies Work: Multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts demonstrate accountability is possible

The Pi Kappa Phi case at UH follows these same patterns: forced consumption, extreme physical hazing, delayed medical intervention, and organizational knowledge—proving these are not isolated incidents but predictable outcomes of dangerous traditions.

Texas Universities: Where Cross Plains Students Face Hazing Risks

Cross Plains families send students to universities across Texas—from our local institutions in Abilene to major campuses hours away. Each has unique hazing risks and institutional responses.

Local Focus: Universities Serving Cross Plains Students

Abilene Christian University (25 miles from Cross Plains)
Campus Culture: Christian university with Greek life and student organizations
Hazing Policy: Prohibits hazing “on or off campus” with reporting through Student Life
Relevant Context: As a private religious institution, ACU handles conduct internally but remains subject to Texas hazing laws
For Cross Plains Families: Proximity means you may notice changes quickly; document everything and seek medical care at Hendrick Medical Center if needed

Hardin-Simmons University (25 miles from Cross Plains)
Campus Culture: Baptist-affiliated with Greek organizations and campus groups
Hazing Policy: Explicit prohibition with reporting to Dean of Students
Relevant Context: Like ACU, internal processes govern but Texas law still applies
For Cross Plains Families: Local law enforcement (Abilene PD) may have jurisdiction for off-campus incidents

McMurry University (30 miles from Cross Plains)
Campus Culture: United Methodist affiliation with campus organizations
Hazing Policy: Comprehensive prohibition aligned with Texas law
For Cross Plains Families: Document all communications with university officials; hazing occurring at nearby campuses still requires experienced legal counsel

Major Texas Universities: Where Many Cross Plains Students Attend

University of Houston – Active Litigation Example

Current Case – Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi:

Hazing Locations: Pi Kappa Phi house, Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Boulevard Park
Specific Acts: “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation; forced consumption leading to vomiting; 100+ push-ups/500 squats sessions; hose spraying “similar to waterboarding”; cold-weather exposure; hog-tying of another pledge
Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, brown urine, 4-day hospitalization
Institutional Response: Chapter suspended Nov 6, 2025; charter surrendered Nov 14, 2025; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”
Defendants: 13 individuals + UH + Board of Regents + Pi Kappa Phi national + housing corporation

UH’s Greek Ecosystem:

50+ fraternity and sorority chapters across multiple councils
Public reporting through Dean of Students Office
For Cross Plains Families: Houston is 4+ hours away—distance makes evidence preservation and legal guidance even more critical

Texas A&M University – Corps and Greek Life Risks

Corps of Cadets Hazing Litigation:

2023 lawsuit alleging “roasted pig” binding with apple in mouth, simulated sexual acts
Sought over $1 million in damages
University handled internally under Corps regulations

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case:

Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner causing severe burns requiring skin grafts
$1 million lawsuit; chapter suspended

For Cross Plains Families: A&M’s tradition-heavy culture requires understanding both Greek and Corps environments; College Station jurisdiction involves Brazos County courts

University of Texas at Austin – Transparent but Persistent Problems

Public Hazing Violations Log:

UT maintains one of Texas’ most transparent hazing disclosure systems
Recent examples: Pi Kappa Alpha (2023) for forced milk consumption and extreme calisthenics; Texas Wranglers for alcohol hazing

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case:

Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted at party
Injuries: dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
Over $1 million lawsuit; chapter already under suspension

For Cross Plains Families: Austin’s distance (3+ hours) means understanding jurisdictional issues (Travis County courts, UTPD vs. Austin PD)

Southern Methodist University – Private University Challenges

Kappa Alpha Order Incident:

2017 paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation allegations
Chapter suspension through 2021

Transparency Issues:

Private university status means less public disclosure
Civil discovery often needed to uncover internal reports

For Cross Plains Families: SMU’s affluent reputation doesn’t eliminate hazing risks; Dallas County courts handle local litigation

Baylor University – Post-Scandal Environment

Baseball Hazing Suspensions:

2020 investigation led to 14 player suspensions
Staggered suspensions throughout season

Institutional Context:

Ongoing Title IX and accountability challenges
Religious affiliation affects internal processes

For Cross Plains Families: Waco’s proximity (2.5 hours) may facilitate involvement; McLennan County jurisdiction applies

How Hazing Cases Proceed at These Campuses

Jurisdictional Realities for Cross Plains Families:

Local Campuses (Abilene area): Taylor County courts, Abilene PD jurisdiction
Distant Campuses: Courts in host counties (Harris, Brazos, Travis, Dallas, McLennan)
Multi-Jurisdiction Cases: Hazing often spans locations, requiring coordinated legal strategy

University Response Patterns:

Initial Containment: Internal investigation, limited disclosure
Chapter Discipline: Probation, suspension, or revocation
Individual Sanctions: Student conduct proceedings
Public Relations: Controlled messaging about “taking matters seriously”

Why Families Need Legal Counsel Early:

Universities have inherent conflicts of interest
Evidence preservation requires immediate action
Insurance companies begin their defense immediately

Fraternities and Sororities: National Patterns Behind the Letters

The organizations at Texas universities aren’t isolated entities—they’re chapters of national groups with documented hazing histories. This matters because patterns create foreseeability, and foreseeability creates liability.

Why National Histories Matter for Cross Plains Cases

When a Texas chapter repeats behaviors that caused deaths or injuries at other campuses, courts recognize that:

The national organization knew or should have known these practices were occurring
Their prevention efforts were inadequate or poorly enforced
The harm was foreseeable and preventable

Organizations with Documented National Problems

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) – Multiple Fatalities

Stone Foltz (Bowling Green, 2021) – $10 million settlement
David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois, 2012) – $14 million settlement
Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing despite national “awareness”

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) – Chemical and Physical Abuse

Texas A&M chemical burns case
UT Austin assault case
University of Alabama traumatic brain injury lawsuit
Pattern: Physical hazing despite “Commitment to Change” rebranding

Pi Kappa Phi – Current UH Litigation

Andrew Coffey (Florida State, 2017) – fatal alcohol poisoning
Leonel Bermudez (UH, 2025) – rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
Pattern: Physical endurance hazing and forced consumption

Phi Delta Theta – Legislative Response Catalyst

Max Gruver (LSU, 2017) – “Bible study” drinking death
Impact: Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)

Kappa Alpha Order – Southern Tradition Issues

SMU paddling and alcohol suspension
Multiple campus sanctions nationwide
Pattern: Tradition-based physical hazing

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Mapping Organizational Networks

Our firm maintains a comprehensive database of Texas Greek organizations—critical for identifying all potentially liable entities. For Cross Plains families, this means we start investigations with knowledge, not guesswork.

Sample Texas Greek Organization Entities (from Public Records):

Pi Kappa Phi Related Entities:

Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc – EIN 462267515 – Frisco, TX 75035
Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation – EIN 371768785 – Missouri City, TX 77459

Honor Societies with Multiple Chapters:

Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – EIN 263170920 – Denton, TX 76204 (Texas Woman’s University chapter)
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – EIN 352335400 – Tyler, TX 75799 (UT Tyler chapter)
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – EIN 383742830 – El Paso, TX 79968 (UT El Paso chapter)

Local Alumni and Housing Corporations:

Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc – EIN 741380362 – Fort Worth, TX 76147
Gamma Phi House Corporation of Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity – EIN 751283953 – Lubbock, TX 79423
(These are illustrative examples from public IRS B83 filings—we maintain hundreds more)

Metro-Level Greek Presence Relevant to Cross Plains Students:

Abilene Metro: 9 Greek-related organizations serving ACU, Hardin-Simmons, McMurry
Dallas-Fort Worth Metro: 510+ organizations near SMU and other North Texas schools
Houston Metro: 188+ organizations near UH
Austin Metro: 154+ organizations near UT
College Station Metro: 42+ organizations near Texas A&M
Waco Metro: 27+ organizations near Baylor

Cross-Validated National Brands in Texas:
Organizations appearing in both IRS records and metro databases—proving interconnected networks:

Beta Upsilon Chi (Fort Worth IRS listing + DFW metro presence)
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority (multiple Texas IRS listings + Houston/Beaumont metro chapters)
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity (Prairie View/Dallas IRS listings + Beaumont alumni chapter)

How This Data Strengthens Cross Plains Cases

Identifying All Defendants: Beyond individual members to housing corporations, alumni associations, and national headquarters
Proving Patterns: Demonstrating national organizations knew about recurring hazing methods
Insurance Coverage Mapping: Locating all potential insurance policies across the organizational network
Jurisdictional Strategy: Determining where to file based on defendant locations and connections

The UH Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates this approach: suing 13 individuals, the local chapter, the national headquarters, the housing corporation, the university, and the university system—ensuring all responsible parties face accountability.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery for Cross Plains Families

Critical Evidence Categories in Modern Hazing Cases

1. Digital Communications (The Most Important Evidence)

Group Messaging: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Snapchat, fraternity-specific apps
Social Media: Instagram stories, TikTok videos, Facebook posts showing activities
Recovered Data: Digital forensics can retrieve deleted messages and media
In the UH Case: Group chats planning activities, messages about “fanny pack” rules, communications about concealing injuries

2. Photographic and Video Evidence

Injuries documented immediately and over time
Locations where hazing occurred
Events captured by participants (often shared in group chats)
Security or doorbell camera footage

3. Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals, “tradition” documents, initiation scripts
Emails between members about activities
National policies and training materials
Prior incident reports and disciplinary records

4. University Records

Prior conduct violations by same organization
Incident reports to campus police or conduct offices
Clery Act reports and annual security disclosures
Internal emails about the organization’s history

5. Medical Documentation

Emergency room records explicitly noting “hazing” as cause
Hospitalization records for injuries or intoxication
Lab results (toxicology, kidney function, muscle enzymes)
Psychological evaluations for PTSD, depression, anxiety

6. Witness Testimony

Other pledges experiencing similar treatment
Former members who quit due to hazing
Roommates, friends, or bystanders who observed changes
Medical personnel who treated injuries

The Damages Recovery Framework

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical Expenses: Emergency care, hospitalization, ongoing treatment, future medical needs
Lost Income & Education: Missed semesters, delayed graduation, reduced earning capacity
Other Costs: Counseling, academic support, relocation expenses

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm):

Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries and recovery
Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in college life or activities

Wrongful Death Damages (for Families):

Economic Losses: Funeral costs, lost financial support
Non-Economic Losses: Grief, loss of companionship, emotional suffering

Punitive Damages (When Applicable):

Punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
Deter future hazing
Available when defendants show conscious indifference

Settlement Realities in Hazing Cases

Recent Settlement Examples:

Stone Foltz (Pi Kappa Alpha): $10 million total
David Bogenberger (Pi Kappa Alpha): $14 million
Max Gruver (Phi Delta Theta): $6.1 million verdict
Northwestern Football Hazing: Confidential settlements
UH Pi Kappa Phi Case: $10 million demand (ongoing litigation)

Confidentiality Considerations:

Most cases settle confidentially before trial
Families can request sealed records and non-disclosure terms
Balance between privacy and public accountability

Insurance Coverage Complexities

Common Insurance Defense Tactics:

Arguing hazing is “intentional conduct” excluded from coverage
Claiming national organizations aren’t responsible for “rogue” chapters
Delaying payments to pressure families financially

Our Insurance Insider Advantage:
Mr. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurers:

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

This insider knowledge is invaluable when negotiating with the same insurance companies that defend fraternities and universities nationwide.

Practical Guides for Cross Plains Families, Students, and Witnesses

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Cross Plains Student May Be Hazed:

Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family, friends, or non-group activities
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
Financial requests for unexplained expenses
Academic decline or skipping classes for “mandatory” events

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally):

“How are your [organization] activities going? Are they respectful of your time?”
“What do new members typically do? Is anything uncomfortable or concerning?”
“Have you or anyone gotten hurt during activities?”
“Do you feel like you could leave if you wanted to, or would there be consequences?”
“Are you asked to keep secrets about what happens?”

If You Suspect Hazing:

Prioritize Safety: If immediate danger, call 911 or campus police
Document Everything: Write down what your child says with dates/times
Preserve Evidence: Screenshot messages, photograph injuries, save physical items
Seek Medical Care: Even if injuries seem minor—documentation is crucial
Consult an Attorney Before Reporting: Strategic timing matters for evidence preservation

For Students: Safety and Self-Advocacy

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment:

Are you being pressured to do something unsafe, humiliating, or illegal?
Would you do this if there were no social consequences?
Are older members making you do things they don’t do themselves?
Are you told to keep secrets from university officials or family?
If yes to any, it’s likely hazing—trust your instincts

Exiting Safely:

Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend)
Send written resignation to chapter leadership (email/text for documentation)
Do NOT attend “one last meeting” where pressure/retaliation may occur
If threatened, report immediately to campus police and Dean of Students

Evidence Collection While Safe:

Screenshot group chats with timestamps visible
Record conversations (Texas is one-party consent state)
Photograph injuries immediately and over several days
Save all communications—do NOT delete anything
Document names of witnesses and participants

For Witnesses and Former Members: Navigating Complex Roles

If You Participated and Now Regret It:

Your testimony could prevent future harm
Consult an attorney about your potential liability
Cooperation agreements may protect you while ensuring accountability
Taking responsibility can be part of personal and institutional healing

If You Witnessed Hazing:

Document what you saw with specific details
Report through anonymous channels if safety is concern
Understand Texas law protects good-faith reporters
Your evidence could save lives in future cases

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Deleting Digital Evidence

Mistake: Letting your child “clean up” embarrassing messages
Why It’s Wrong: Looks like cover-up; may be obstruction of justice; destroys critical evidence
Correct Approach: Preserve everything immediately—even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization Directly

Mistake: Calling chapter leadership to “give them a piece of your mind”
Why It’s Wrong: Triggers evidence destruction, witness coaching, defense preparation
Correct Approach: Document everything, then call an attorney before any contact

3. Signing University “Resolution” Agreements

Mistake: Accepting quick settlement from university without legal review
Why It’s Wrong: May waive rights to sue; settlements are often far below case value
Correct Approach: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting on Social Media

Mistake: Sharing details publicly “to warn others”
Why It’s Wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Correct Approach: Document privately; let your attorney control public messaging

5. Letting Your Child Attend “One Last Meeting”

Mistake: Allowing pressure or intimidation before taking legal action
Why It’s Wrong: Organizations extract statements that hurt the case
Correct Approach: Once considering legal action, all communication through your attorney

6. Waiting for University Investigation

Mistake: Delaying action “to see how the university handles it”
Why It’s Wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Correct Approach: Preserve evidence now; consult attorney immediately

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters

Mistake: Giving recorded statements without counsel
Why It’s Wrong: Statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
Correct Approach: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Cross Plains Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities have sovereign immunity limitations, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual capacity lawsuits. Private universities have fewer immunity protections. Every case requires individual analysis—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific guidance.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law makes hazing a Class B misdemeanor by default but upgrades to a state jail felony if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

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

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist:

Discovery rule if harm wasn’t immediately known
Tolling for minors or fraudulent concealment
Time is critical—evidence disappears quickly

“What if hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus with significant judgments.

“Will this be confidential?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize family privacy while pursuing accountability.

“What about criminal charges?”
We can:

Advise on criminal process alongside civil case
Help coordinate with prosecutors
Protect your rights in dual-track proceedings
Navigate complex witness/defendant issues

Why Attorney911 for Cross Plains Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

When your Cross Plains 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.

Insurance Insider Advantage – Mr. Lupe Peña:

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

Complex Institutional Litigation – 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 Experience:

Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
Economist collaboration for lifetime care valuation
Experience with catastrophic injuries: brain damage, permanent disability
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise:

Ralph’s HCCLA membership signals elite criminal defense capability
Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure

Investigative Depth and Expert Network:

Digital forensics for recovering deleted evidence
Medical experts for rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD testimony
Greek life culture and institutional policy experts
Economists and life-care planners for damage valuation
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does”

Our Ongoing Hazing Litigation: The UH Pi Kappa Phi Case

Right now, we’re actively litigating one of Texas’ most serious hazing cases:

Client: Leonel Bermudez, UH transfer student
Injuries: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization
Defendants: 13 individuals + Pi Kappa Phi national + UH + housing corporation
Status: Active $10 million lawsuit in Harris County

This isn’t theoretical—it’s current proof of our commitment to hazing accountability. The details—forced “fanny pack” humiliation, waterboarding-like hose spraying, extreme workouts leading to brown urine and kidney failure—demonstrate exactly the kind of cases we handle.

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine

While other firms start from zero, we begin with data:

1,423 Greek organizations tracked across 25 Texas metros
IRS B83 records on 125+ Texas-registered entities
Campus-specific rosters from UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor
National pattern databases showing organizational histories
Insurance coverage mapping across organizational networks

For Cross Plains families, this means:

Faster Investigations: We know where to look for evidence
Comprehensive Defendant Identification: We find all potentially liable parties
Pattern Evidence: We document organizational knowledge and foreseeability
Strategic Advantage: We start ahead, while defense teams scramble

Spanish-Language Services for Texas Families

Mr. Lupe Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can provide:

Full consultations in Spanish
Spanish-language document review
Cultural understanding of Texas Hispanic families’ needs
Bilingual case management and communication

Call to Action for Cross Plains Families

Your Next Steps: Immediate and Strategic

If This Just Happened (First 48 Hours):

Medical Care: Get immediate attention, even for “minor” injuries
Evidence Preservation: Screenshot everything; photograph injuries; save physical items
Documentation: Write down everything your child says with dates/times
Legal Consultation: Call us before contacting university or organization
Strategic Planning: Let us help you navigate the complex decisions ahead

If You’re Investigating Past Hazing:

Evidence Review: Bring us what you have—we’ll identify gaps
Pattern Analysis: We’ll research organizational history and prior incidents
Strategic Options: We’ll explain criminal vs. civil pathways, settlement vs. trial
Realistic Expectations: We’ll provide honest assessment of challenges and opportunities

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

When you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911:

We Listen Without Judgment: Your story matters—we’ll hear every detail
Evidence Assessment: We’ll review what you have and identify what’s needed
Legal Options Explained: Criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Realistic Timelines: What to expect in coming weeks and months
Cost Transparency: Contingency fee basis—no fee unless we win
No Pressure: Take time to decide—we’re here when you’re ready
Complete Confidentiality: Everything you share is protected

Contact Attorney911 Today

For Cross Plains Families and Students:

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

Spanish Language Services:

Hablamos Español – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com
Consultas completas en español disponibles

Service Areas: While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas, including Cross Plains, Callahan County, and all communities affected by campus hazing.

Final Word to Cross Plains Families

From our local universities in Abilene to major campuses across Texas, hazing continues to injure and traumatize students. The UH Pi Kappa Phi case proves that even in 2025, dangerous traditions persist despite laws, policies, and public awareness.

Your child’s safety and future matter. The organizations that failed them must be held accountable. The institutions that overlooked warning signs must change. And your family deserves answers, support, and justice.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. We’ve helped Texas families through hazing tragedies, and we’re ready to help yours.

Call Attorney911 today: 1-888-ATTY-911

Let us bring our experience, investigation resources, and commitment to accountability to your family’s case. Together, we can seek justice for what happened and help prevent it from happening to another Cross Plains student.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Current UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

Attorney911 Educational 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:

https://attorney911.com

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

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