The Complete Guide to Hazing Protection for Crowley, Texas Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You Need Answers and Accountability Now

A freshman from Crowley, Texas wakes up in a Dallas-Fort Worth area emergency room. The night before, he was at a fraternity “bid acceptance” event at a university just hours from your Crowley home. He remembers being pressured to finish a bottle of whiskey—”everyone who wants to be a brother does it.” He remembers older members chanting, phones recording, the room spinning. He doesn’t remember collapsing. He doesn’t remember his “brothers” waiting over an hour before calling for help. Now you’re staring at a hospital monitor showing acute kidney failure from alcohol poisoning, and the fraternity’s lawyer is already saying your son “voluntarily participated.” This is every Crowley parent’s nightmare—and it’s happening right now in Texas.

We’re The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™. Right now, we’re actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas—the $10 million lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter, its national headquarters, and individual fraternity leaders. This case is happening in real time, and it demonstrates exactly what we do: hold powerful institutions accountable when they fail to protect students.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for parents and families in Crowley, Texas—in Tarrant County, part of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area—whose children have been hazed or injured in connection with fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, athletics, or campus organizations anywhere in Texas. Whether your child attends school right here in the DFW metro at TCU or UT Arlington, or has gone further to UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other Texas campus, you deserve to know:

What hazing really looks like in 2025 (beyond the stereotypes)
How Texas hazing laws protect—and sometimes fail—your child
What we’ve learned from national hazing tragedies that apply directly to Crowley families
What’s happening at major Texas universities where Crowley students enroll
What legal options exist for families seeking accountability
Why our firm brings unique advantages to hazing litigation
Immediate steps to protect your child and preserve evidence

If you’re reading this in the first 48 hours after discovering hazing: Call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). Evidence disappears fast, universities move quickly to control narratives, and early legal guidance can make all the difference.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like Beyond the Stereotypes

For families in Crowley, Texas, the word “hazing” might conjure images of outdated movie scenes—harmless pranks, silly costumes, or boys-will-be-boys roughhousing. The reality in 2025 is far more dangerous, sophisticated, and hidden. Hazing has evolved into a digital, psychological, and sometimes deadly practice that thrives in secrecy and tradition.

The True Definition: It’s Not “Just Tradition”

Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status in a group—whether that group is a fraternity, sorority, athletic team, Corps unit, spirit group, or campus organization. The key elements that make it hazing, not “team building”:

Endangerment: The activity risks physical or mental health
Coercion: There’s real or implied pressure to participate
Exclusivity: It’s tied to membership or status within the group
Secrecy: Participants are often told to keep it hidden

Critical truth for Crowley parents: “I agreed to it” or “I wanted to fit in” does not make it safe or legal. Texas law (Education Code §37.155) explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of social exclusion isn’t true voluntary consent.

Modern Hazing Categories: From Digital Control to Physical Violence

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing (The Most Deadly Category)

This remains the single most common fatal hazing method. Examples we see regularly:

“Big/Little” nights where pledges are given handles of liquor to finish
Drinking games like “Bible study” or “family tree” where wrong answers mean shots
“Lineup” challenges where pledges chug in sequence
Forced consumption of dangerous substances (hot sauce, milk until vomiting, unknown mixtures)
Peer pressure to “keep up” or “prove you’re worthy”

In our active University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi case, Leonel Bermudez was forced to consume excessive amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting—then immediately forced to do sprints. This is textbook alcohol/food hazing with devastating consequences.

2. Physical Hazing and Endurance Tests

What looks like “conditioning” or “workouts” often crosses into abuse:

Extreme calisthenics (“smokings”) far beyond normal fitness
-a committed 100+ push-ups, 500 squats in single sessions
Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions” or 3 AM wake-up calls
Exposure to elements like cold-weather workouts in minimal clothing
Paddling and beatings (particularly in certain traditions)
“Save-your-brother” drills and dangerous physical challenges

3. Psychological and Humiliating Hazing

The invisible wounds often last longest:

Verbal abuse, screaming, humiliation in front of peers
Forced nudity or wearing degrading costumes
Simulated sexual acts or sexually degrading positions
Social isolation from non-members or family
Public shaming on social media or in group settings
Racist, sexist, or homophobic role-playing or language

4. Digital Hazing (The 2025 Evolution)

Smartphones have created new avenues for control and humiliation:

24/7 group chat monitoring with instant response demands
Social media dares forced on TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat
Location tracking requirements via Find My Friends or Life360
“Evidence” collection where hazing is filmed for members’ entertainment
Digital humiliation through meme creation and sharing

5. Disguised Hazing: “It’s Not Hazing If We Call It Something Else”

Organizations have become sophisticated at rebranding hazing:

“Team building” that involves dangerous activities
“Wellness challenges” that are actually punishment
“Tradition education” that involves humiliation
“Optional events” that are socially mandatory
“Character development” through suffering

Where Hazing Happens: Beyond Fraternity Houses

While Greek life receives most attention, Crowley families should know hazing occurs in multiple contexts:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural councils)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC programs with military-style traditions
Athletic Teams from football to cheerleading to baseball
Spirit Organizations like Texas Cowboys, cheer teams, drum majors
Marching Bands and performance groups
Academic Honor Societies and professional organizations
Campus Ministry Groups and service organizations

The common thread? Any group with initiation, tradition, and social status can develop hazing practices.

The Texas Legal Framework: What Crowley Families Need to Know About Hazing Laws

When your child is hazed at a Texas university, multiple layers of law come into play—state criminal statutes, civil liability frameworks, federal regulations, and institutional policies. Understanding this framework helps Crowley families navigate what comes next.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that every Crowley parent should understand:

§37.151: The Definition That Matters

Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

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

Plain English translation: If someone makes your child do something dangerous or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk, that’s hazing under Texas law.

Key implications for Crowley families:

Location doesn’t matter—off-campus houses, retreats, and Airbnbs count
“Reckless” is enough—they don’t have to intend harm
Mental harm counts alongside physical injury
Consent is explicitly NOT a defense (§37.155)

§37.152: Criminal Penalties That Apply

Texas categorizes hazing offenses by severity:

Class B Misdemeanor: Basic 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

Additional criminal provisions:

Failing to report hazing if you’re a member/officer who knew: misdemeanor
Retaliating against reporters: misdemeanor

§37.153: Organizational Liability

The organization itself (fraternity, sorority, team) can be prosecuted if:

The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
An officer or member acting officially knew and failed to report

Penalty: Up to $10,000 fine per violation, plus university can revoke recognition.

§37.154: Good-Faith Reporting Protections

A person who in good faith reports hazing to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result.

Why this matters for Crowley students: Many fear reporting because they were drinking underage or participating. Texas law (and most university policies) provide amnesty for those who call for help in emergencies.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Different Paths to Accountability

Criminal Cases (The State’s Role)

Who brings it: District Attorney or County Attorney
Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
Burden of proof: Beyond a reasonable doubt
Family’s role: Victim/witness, not decision-maker

Civil Cases (Your Family’s Path)

Who brings it: Victims or surviving families
Goal: Compensation and accountability
Typical claims: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, intentional infliction of emotional distress
Burden of proof: Preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not)
Family’s role: Plaintiff with control over the case

Critical insight: These can run simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t required for a civil case, and vice versa. Many families pursue both paths.

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections and Requirements

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)

This new federal law requires colleges receiving federal aid to:

Report hazing incidents more transparently
Strengthen hazing education and prevention
Maintain public hazing data (phasing in by 2026)
For Crowley parents: More public data means better pattern recognition

Title IX (When Hazing Involves Sex Discrimination)

If hazing includes sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger:

Mandatory investigation by university
Potential federal civil rights claims
Different procedural protections

Clery Act (Crime Reporting)

Requires universities to report certain crimes and maintain safety statistics. Hazing incidents often overlap with reportable crimes like assault, battery, or alcohol offenses.

The Web of Liability: Who Can Be Held Accountable?

In civil hazing litigation, multiple parties may share responsibility:

1. Individual Students

Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
Personal assets potentially at risk
Often the first to settle or cooperate

2. Local Chapter/Organization

The fraternity/sorority/club as a legal entity
Chapter bank accounts and assets
Officers acting in official capacity

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters

Deep pockets with insurance coverage
Liability based on what they knew or should have known
Prior incidents at other chapters create “foreseeability”

4. University or Governing Board

Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity
Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections
Liability theories: negligent supervision, premises liability, Title IX violations

5. Third Parties

Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces
Bars or alcohol providers (dram shop liability)
Security companies or event organizers
Alumni advisors or housing corporations

For Crowley families: Identifying all potentially liable parties is our first strategic step. Each may have insurance coverage that can provide compensation.

National Hazing Tragedies: Patterns That Echo in Texas

The hazing incident affecting your Crowley family doesn’t exist in a vacuum. National cases over the past decade have established patterns, precedents, and legal strategies that directly inform how we handle Texas cases today. These tragedies show what happens when institutions fail—and what accountability can look like.

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Common Fatal Pattern

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

What happened: 20-year-old pledge forced to consume entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Medical outcome: Died from alcohol poisoning
Legal outcome: $10 million total settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU); multiple criminal convictions
Texas relevance: Same fraternity (Pi Kappa Alpha) operates at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor. Same “Big/Little” script.

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

What happened: Bid acceptance night with extreme drinking; falls captured on chapter cameras; 12+ hour delay calling for help
Medical outcome: Died from traumatic brain injuries
Legal outcome: 18 members charged with 1,000+ criminal counts; Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law”
Texas relevance: Beta Theta Pi operates at Texas A&M and UT. The surveillance footage evidence strategy is now standard.

Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

What happened: “Bible study” drinking game; forced drinking for wrong answers
Medical outcome: Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
Legal outcome: “Max Gruver Act” making hazing a felony in Louisiana; individual convictions
Texas relevance: Phi Delta Theta operates at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor. Drinking games are common across Texas chapters.

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

What happened: “Big Brother Night” event; pledge given handle of liquor
Medical outcome: Died from acute alcohol poisoning
Legal outcome: Criminal hazing charges; FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
Texas relevance: Pi Kappa Phi is the exact fraternity in our active UH case. National patterns matter.

Physical and Ritualized Hazing: Violence Disguised as Tradition

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

What happened: “Glass ceiling” ritual at retreat: blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled
Medical outcome: Died from traumatic brain injury; delayed 911 call
Legal outcome: National fraternity criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Texas relevance: Off-campus “retreats” are common hazing venues in Texas too.

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)

What happened: “Pledge dad reveal” night with forced excessive drinking
Medical outcome: Severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
Legal outcome: Settlements with 22 defendants; multi-million dollar total
Texas relevance: Phi Gamma Delta operates at Texas A&M and UT. Non-fatal catastrophic injuries can warrant lifetime care compensation.

Athletic and Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football Program (2023–2025)

What happened: Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Legal outcome: Multiple lawsuits; head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired and settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Texas relevance: Major athletic programs at Texas schools face similar risks and liability.

Robert Champion – Florida A&M Marching Band (2011)

What happened: “Crossing Bus C” ritual involving severe physical beatings
Medical outcome: Died from blunt force trauma
Legal outcome: Multiple criminal convictions; $1 million settlement with university
Texas relevance: Hazing occurs in marching bands and spirit groups at Texas universities too.

What These Cases Mean for Crowley, Texas Families

Patterns repeat: The same scripts (“Big/Little night,” “Bible study,” retreat rituals) appear across states and campuses
Delay kills: Waiting to call 911 consistently worsens outcomes and increases liability
Cover-ups backfire: Destroying evidence or lying to investigators creates additional liability
Nationals know: Headquarters often have prior warnings about dangerous traditions
Universities pay: Institutions face multi-million dollar settlements when they fail to protect

Most importantly: These cases show that accountability IS possible, even against massive institutions. The settlements and verdicts—from $1 million to $14 million—demonstrate that juries and courts take hazing seriously.

Texas University Focus: Where Crowley Students Face Hazing Risks

Crowley, Texas families send their children to universities across the state. Whether it’s nearby schools in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro like Texas Christian University (TCU) or University of Texas at Arlington, or major hubs further away like University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Southern Methodist University (SMU), or Baylor, each campus has its own hazing landscape, policies, and history. Understanding these environments helps Crowley parents recognize risks and responses.

Texas Christian University (TCU) – Fort Worth, Tarrant County

Distance from Crowley: Approximately 30 minutes

Campus & Culture Snapshot

TCU sits right in Crowley’s backyard in Fort Worth. As a private university with strong Greek life (about 40% of undergraduates join fraternities or sororities), TCU represents a common destination for Crowley students seeking both academic quality and traditional college experience close to home.

Greek Life Presence:

Interfraternity Council (IFC): 14 fraternities including Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Alpha Order, Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi
Panhellenic Council: 10 sororities
National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC): 4 historically Black fraternities and sororities
Multicultural Greek Council: 6 organizations

Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

TCU’s hazing policy prohibits “any activity that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in an organization.” Reporting options include:

TCU Office of Student Conduct & Behavioral Intervention
TCU Police Department
Anonymous reporting via TCU’s Integrity Hotline

Documented Incidents & Responses

While TCU maintains some confidentiality around disciplinary matters, public records and news reports indicate ongoing challenges:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): Chapter suspended for hazing violations including paddling and forced drinking
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021): Suspension for endangering behavior during new member activities
General Pattern: Periodic suspensions and probations across multiple Greek organizations

How a TCU Hazing Case Might Proceed for Crowley Families

Jurisdiction: Tarrant County courts apply directly to Crowley residents
Police involvement: TCU Police Department for on-campus incidents; Fort Worth Police Department for off-campus
Venue advantages: Close proximity means easier access to attorneys, court appearances, and investigation
Local connections: Crowley families may have existing relationships with TCU staff or community members

University of Texas at Arlington (UTA)

Distance from Crowley: Approximately 25 minutes

Campus & Culture Snapshot

As Crowley’s closest large public university, UTA serves many local families. With over 40,000 students, UTA has growing Greek life alongside commuter culture.

Greek Life Presence:

Interfraternity Council: 10+ fraternities
Panhellenic Council: 6 sororities
NPHC and multicultural organizations

Hazing Policy & Reporting

UTA follows UT System policies with reporting through:

Office of Student Conduct
UTA Police Department
Online reporting forms

Documented Incidents

Periodic disciplinary actions against Greek organizations
Less public transparency than flagship UT Austin campus

Crowley Family Considerations

Extreme proximity means rapid response capability
Local attorneys familiar with Tarrant County courts and procedures
Many Crowley families have multiple connections to UTA community

University of Houston (UH) – Active Case Example

Distance from Crowley: Approximately 4 hours

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH represents a major destination for Crowley students seeking large research university experience. With our active $10 million hazing lawsuit against UH and Pi Kappa Phi, we have particular insight into UH’s hazing landscape.

Greek Life Presence:

Interfraternity Council (IFC): 17+ fraternities including Alpha Sigma Phi, Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi
Panhellenic Council: 6 sororities
Multicultural Greek Council: 10+ organizations
National Pan-Hellenic Council: All Divine Nine organizations

The Bermudez Case: What Happened at UH

In our active litigation, Leonel Bermudez suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after Pi Kappa Phi hazing that included:

“Pledge fanny pack” rule with degrading contents (condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices)
Extreme physical hazing: sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, “save-your-brother” drills
Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting
“Waterboarding” simulation with hose spraying in face
Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats
Medical catastrophe: Brown urine, hospitalization for four days, critically high creatine kinase levels

Defendants include: University of Houston, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual fraternity leaders

Institutional Response: Chapter suspended Nov 6, 2025; charter surrendered Nov 14, 2025; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”

UH Hazing Policy & Reporting

UH prohibits hazing and provides reporting through:

Dean of Students Office
UH Police Department
Online reporting forms
Diet, but as our case shows, policies don’t always prevent harm

How a UH Case Proceeds for Crowley Families

Jurisdiction: Harris County courts (Houston)
Travel considerations: 4-hour drive means planning for hearings and meetings
Local counsel advantage: Houston-based attorneys like our firm have geographic efficiency
Media coverage: Major cases like ours receive Click2Houston, ABC13, and Hoodline coverage

Texas A&M University – College Station

Distance from Crowley: Approximately 3 hours

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M’s unique culture includes both robust Greek life and the Corps of Cadets, creating multiple potential hazing environments.

Greek Life Presence:

Interfraternity Council: 19+ fraternities
Panhellenic Council: 14+ sororities
Corps of Cadets: Military-style program with its own traditions and risks

Documented Incidents

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

Two pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, spit
Severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
Pledges sued for $1 million; fraternity suspended for two years

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023):

Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts
Being bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth
Sought over $1 million in damages

Sigma Chi Rhabdomyolysis Case (2023, ongoing):

Allegations of extreme physical hazing causing severe muscle breakdown
Specialized litigation focusing on kidney injury recovery

Texas A&M Policies & Reporting

Student Conduct Office investigations
Corps of Cadets internal discipline system
Texas A&M University Police Department

Crowley Family Considerations

Aggie Network connections may help or complicate cases
Corps cases involve military-style chain of command issues
College Station venue requires travel planning

University of Texas at Austin

Distance from Crowley: Approximately 3 hours

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin’s public hazing violations database provides unusual transparency into campus hazing patterns.

Greek Life Presence:

Interfraternity Council: 16+ fraternities
Panhellenic Council: 13 sororities
Texas Asian Pan-Hellenic Council: 9 organizations
Multiple spirit groups and secret societies

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Database

UT maintains one of Texas’ most transparent hazing records at hazing.utexas.edu. Recent examples:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023):

New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
Sanction: Probation, mandatory hazing prevention education

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (January 2024):

Australian exchange student alleged assault at party
Injuries: dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
Student sued for over $1 million; chapter already under suspension

Texas Wranglers (Spirit Group):

Multiple sanctions for hazing violations
Pattern of forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing

UT Policies & Reporting

Office of the Dean of Students investigations
UTPD for criminal aspects
Public violation listings create discoverable pattern evidence

Crowley Family Advantages with UT Cases

Public records provide pre-existing evidence
Austin venue well-established for civil litigation
Media scrutiny often higher at flagship campus

Southern Methodist University (SMU) – Dallas

Distance from Crowley: Approximately 45 minutes

Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU’s private, affluent campus in Dallas’s University Park represents another nearby option for Crowley families, with strong Greek life presence.

Greek Life Presence:

Interfraternity Council: 6+ fraternities
Panhellenic Council: 8 sororities
NPHC and multicultural organizations

Documented Incidents

Kappa Alpha Order (2017):

New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, deprived of sleep
Chapter suspended; recruiting restrictions until about 2021

Sigma Alpha Epsilon:

Periodic disciplinary actions
National pattern of violations creates foreseeability issues

SMU Policies & Reporting

Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards
SMU Police Department
Private university status may limit public records access

Crowley Geographic Advantages

Dallas County courts are familiar to local attorneys
Minimal travel for meetings and hearings
Dallas media market attention possible

Baylor University – Waco

Distance from Crowley: Approximately 2 hours

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor’s religious identity and recent history of institutional scrutiny create unique context for hazing cases.

Greek Life Presence:

Interfraternity Council: 5+ fraternities
Panhellenic Council: 9 sororities
NPHC organizations

Documented Incidents

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020):

14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Suspensions staggered over early season
Pattern of athletic program hazing

Baylor Policies & Reporting

Student Conduct Administration
Baylor Department of Public Safety
Religious context may influence internal handling

Crowley Family Considerations

McLennan County venue requires travel
Baylor’s private status affects records access
Religious branding may complicate public relations

Cross-Campus Patterns Affecting Crowley Students

Regardless of which Texas university your Crowley student attends, these patterns recur:

Alcohol-focused hazing remains most common and most dangerous
Off-campus venues (houses, Airbnbs, retreats) are preferred to avoid cameras
Digital evidence (group chats, social media) is critical but quickly deleted
Delay in reporting medical emergencies worsens outcomes
University responses vary from transparent to protective of institutional reputation
National fraternity patterns repeat across campuses

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories That Predict Texas Risks

When a Crowley student is hazed at a Texas university, the local chapter doesn’t operate in isolation. National fraternity and sorority headquarters maintain histories, patterns, and—critically—prior knowledge of dangerous traditions. This national context matters tremendously in litigation, as it establishes what the organization “knew or should have known” about risks.

Why National Histories Matter Legally

In civil hazing litigation, we often prove:

Foreseeability: The national organization knew this type of hazing was occurring in its chapters
Negligent Supervision: Nationals failed to adequately monitor or prevent known dangers
Pattern & Practice: The same scripts repeat across campuses, showing systemic issues
Prior Notice: Previous incidents gave nationals warning they failed to heed

For Crowley families: Your child’s injury likely follows a script the national headquarters has seen before—often many times before.

Major National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / “Pike”)

Texas Campuses: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, TCU, UTA

National Hazing History:

Stone Foltz (BGSU, 2021): $10 million settlement ($7M from nationals)
David Bogenberger (NIU, 2012): $14 million settlement
Multiple additional alcohol poisoning deaths nationwide

Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing; forced consumption rituals; national has extensive prior notice

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / “SAE”)

Texas Campuses: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, TCU, most major schools

National Hazing History:

Traumatic Brain Injury Case (Alabama, 2023): Ongoing litigation
Chemical Burns Case (Texas A&M, 2021): $1 million lawsuit; skin grafts required
Assault Case (UT Austin, 2024): Over $1 million lawsuit
Carson Starkey (Cal Poly, 2008): Confidential settlement leading to “Aware Awake Alive” foundation
Multiple additional alcohol poisoning deaths

Pattern: Physical violence, chemical hazing, alcohol fatalities; nationals eliminated pledge process in 2014 due to pattern

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

Texas Campuses: UH (Beta Nu chapter in our active case), other Texas schools

National Hazing History:

Andrew Coffey (FSU, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death
Leonel Bermudez (UH, 2025): Our active $10 million lawsuit for rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure

Pattern: Extreme physical hazing combined with forced consumption

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

Texas Campuses: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, TCU

National Hazing History:

Max Gruver (LSU, 2017): $6.1 million verdict; “Max Gruver Act” in Louisiana
Multiple additional alcohol hazing incidents

Pattern: “Bible study” and trivia drinking games

Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ)

Texas Campuses: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, TCU, UTA

National Hazing History:

Chad Meredith (Miami, 2001): $12.6 million jury verdict; led to Florida hazing law
Texas A&M Rhabdomyolysis Case (2023): Ongoing litigation

Pattern: Alcohol hazing, physical endurance tests

Sigma Chi (ΣΧ)

Texas Campuses: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, TCU

National Hazing History:

College of Charleston Case (2024): Over $10 million settlement
UT Arlington Case (2020): Hospitalization from alcohol poisoning

Pattern: Physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption

Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ)

Texas Campuses: Texas A&M, UT, TCU

National Hazing History:

Timothy Piazza (Penn State, 2017): Landmark case leading to Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law”
Multiple criminal convictions against members

Pattern: Bid acceptance drinking, delayed medical care

How We Use National Histories in Crowley Cases

When representing Crowley families, we immediately investigate:

Prior incidents at the same chapter: Internal discipline records, university files
Prior incidents at other chapters of same national: News databases, lawsuit filings, insurance claims
National policies and training: What the headquarters told chapters to do (or not do)
Enforcement patterns: Whether nationals actually punished prior violations
Risk management materials: Manuals that acknowledge known dangers

This investigation establishes: The national organization knew this could happen. Their failure to prevent it constitutes negligence.

Housing Corporations and Alumni Organizations: Additional Liability Sources

Beyond the undergraduate chapter and national headquarters, other entities may share liability:

IRS B83 Texas Organizations (Public Records Directory):
Our research identifies 125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations through IRS filings. Examples relevant to Crowley/DFW families:

Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc (EIN 741380362) – Fort Worth, TX 76147
Beta Upsilon Chi (EIN 742911848) – Fort Worth, TX 76244
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity (EIN 521278573) – Dallas, TX 75241
Fort Worth Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi (EIN 752755600) – Fort Worth, TX 76101
Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity Texas Gamma Chapter (EIN 911981478) – Fort Worth, TX 76109
Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity – Gamma Psi Chapter – Fort Worth, TX (TCU)

Cause IQ Metro Organizations:
The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro contains approximately 510 Greek-related organizations according to our data. Examples:

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity – Fort Worth, TX
Delta Delta Delta (Tri Delta) – Arlington, TX
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation – Fort Worth, TX
Delta Tau Delta – Gamma Iota Chapter – Austin, TX (though UT-focused, shows brand presence)

Why this matters for Crowley families: These entities may hold insurance policies, own property, or exercise control that creates legal responsibility.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Damages for Crowley Families

When hazing injures or kills a Crowley student, building a strong case requires systematic investigation, strategic legal positioning, and thorough damages analysis. This section explains what happens behind the scenes in serious hazing litigation.

Evidence Collection: The Digital Crime Scene

Modern hazing leaves digital fingerprints everywhere. Our investigative approach for Crowley cases includes:

1. Digital Communications (Priority #1)

GroupMe/WhatsApp/iMessage threads: Screenshot immediately before deletion
Social media DMs: Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook Messenger
Custom Fraternity-specific apps: Chapter communication platforms
Text message logs: Full conversations with timestamps
Email threads: Official chapter communications

Our active UH case example: Group chats showed planning of hazing events, discussions of “what to do with pledges,” and attempts to coordinate stories after Bermudez’s hospitalization.

2. Photo & Video Evidence

Event footage: Members often film hazing for “entertainment”
Injury documentation: Multiple angles with scale references
Location photos: Houses, rooms, specific setups
Social media posts: Even deleted posts can be recovered

3. Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals/education materials
Initiation scripts and ritual books
Risk management policies (often ignored in practice)
Chapter meeting minutes
National communications about prior incidents

4. University Records (Via Subpoena)

Prior conduct files for the same organization
Disciplinary history showing pattern
Incident reports to campus police
Clery Act reports and security logs
Internal emails among administrators

5. Medical & Psychological Records

ER/hospitalization records documenting immediate harm
Lab results (blood alcohol, toxicology, kidney function)
Imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI)
Psychological evaluations for PTSD, depression, anxiety
Future care plans for catastrophic injuries

6. Witness Testimony

Other pledges who experienced same hazing
Former members who quit due to abuse
Roommates/RAs who observed changes
Medical providers who treated injuries
Expert witnesses: medical, psychological, Greek life culture

Legal Strategy: Overcoming Institutional Defenses

Fraternities, sororities, and universities have sophisticated defense playbooks. We counter with:

Defense #1: “The Pledge Consented”

Their argument: “He wanted to join; he participated voluntarily”
Our counter: Texas law §37.155 says consent is not a defense; power imbalance and coercion negate true consent; group dynamics research shows “choice” is illusory under peer pressure

Defense #2: “National Didn’t Know”

Their argument: “This was rogue individuals; headquarters had no idea”
Our counter: Pattern evidence from other chapters shows foreseeability; prior incidents put them on notice; risk management policies acknowledge dangers

Defense #3: “It Happened Off-Campus”

Their argument: “We don’t control private houses or retreats”
Our counter: Nationals collect dues and exercise control regardless of location; universities sponsor recognized organizations; foreseeability of off-campus hazing

Defense #4: “We Have Anti-Hazing Policies”

Their argument: “Our manual prohibits hazing; we can’t control individuals”
Our counter: Paper policies without enforcement constitute negligent supervision; prior violations show policies ignored

Defense #5: “Insurance Doesn’t Cover Intentional Acts”

Their argument: “Hazing is intentional, so insurance excludes it”
Our counter: Negligent supervision claims may be covered; multiple policies may apply; bad faith arguments if wrongful denial

Damages Analysis: Full Compensation for Harm

For Crowley families, understanding potential compensation categories helps guide decisions:

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

Past medical bills: ER, hospitalization, surgeries, medications
Future medical care: Ongoing therapy, future surgeries, lifelong treatment
Lost income: Time off work for victim or caregiving parent
Lost educational opportunity: Tuition for withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships
Diminished earning capacity: Reduced lifetime earnings from permanent disability
Life care plans: For catastrophic injuries like severe brain damage (can exceed $10+ million)

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm)

Physical pain and suffering: From injuries and treatment
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in activities previously loved
Disfigurement and permanent disability
Loss of consortium (for spouses)

Wrongful Death Damages (for Families)

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of financial support deceased would have provided
Loss of companionship, love, and society
Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering
Punitive damages in egregious cases

Settlement Ranges from National Cases

While every case is unique, these national precedents inform expectations:

Death cases: $1–$14+ million (Foltz $10M, Bogenberger $14M, Gruver $6.1M, Meredith $12.6M)
Severe injury cases: $375K–multi-million (Santulli brain damage: multi-million across 22 defendants)
Individual officer liability: Personal judgments up to $6.5 million (Foltz case chapter president)

For Crowley families: We work with economists, life care planners, and vocational experts to fully value your case—not just immediate bills, but lifetime impact.

The Litigation Timeline: What to Expect

Immediate Response (Days 1–30): Evidence preservation, medical stabilization, initial investigations
Pre-Litigation (Months 1–3): Demand letters, insurance negotiations, preservation subpoenas
Filing & Discovery (Months 3–18): Complaint filing, document production, depositions, expert reports
Mediation/Settlement (Months 12–24): Most cases settle during this phase
Trial (Months 24–36+): If no settlement, jury trial preparation and presentation

Crowley advantage: Our Texas base means we’re familiar with local courts, procedures, and timelines across the state.

Practical Guides & FAQs: Immediate Help for Crowley Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Crowley Student May Be Being Hazed

Physical Indicators:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries (especially if explanations don’t add up)
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight loss or gain from food/water manipulation
Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
Injuries to hands/back/buttocks from paddling
Chemical burns, rashes, or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning even if your child doesn’t normally drink

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
Withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-group activities
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability, anger
Defensive when asked about the organization
Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
Sudden obsession with pleasing older members

Academic Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or falling asleep in class
Skipping exams/assignments for “mandatory” events
Losing scholarships or academic standing

Digital/Social Behavior:

Constant phone monitoring of group chats
Anxiety when phone buzzes
Deleting messages or clearing history obsessively
Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response
Social media posts showing concerning activities
Location tracking apps newly installed

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally)

“How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
“Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
“Do you feel like you can leave if you want to, or would there be consequences?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”

48-Hour Action Checklist for Crowley Parents

HOUR 1–6 (IMMEDIATE CRISIS):
✅ Medical: If injured or intoxicated, get to ER immediately
✅ Safety: Remove child from dangerous situation
✅ Evidence: Screenshot any messages they show you; photograph visible injuries
✅ Notes: Write down everything they tell you (date, time, what happened, who was there)
✅ Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

HOUR 6–24 (EVIDENCE PRESERVATION):
✅ Digital: Help child preserve all group chats, DMs, texts (do NOT delete anything)
✅ Physical: Secure clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
✅ Medical records: Request copies of all ER/hospital records
✅ Witnesses: Write down names and contact info for other pledges, bystanders
✅ University: Note any communications from school but do NOT respond yet

HOUR 24–48 (STRATEGIC DECISIONS):
✅ Legal consultation: Speak with experienced hazing attorney (1-888-ATTY-911)
✅ Reporting decision: Decide whether to report to campus police, local police, Dean of Students
✅ University response: If school contacts you, refer them to your attorney
✅ Insurance: Do NOT talk to any insurance adjuster without lawyer present
✅ Evidence backup: Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage

For Students: Self-Assessment and Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Quick Decision Guide

Ask yourself these questions:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences, no fear of being cut)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
Is this “tradition” really about initiation/earning membership, or just entertainment for older members?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

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

How to Exit Safely

If you’re in immediate danger:

Call 911 or campus police
Get to a safe location (dorm, friend’s place, public area)
Good-faith reporter protections apply in Texas—you won’t get in trouble for calling for help

If you want to quit/de-pledge:

You have the legal right to leave at any time
Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend) for documentation
Send email/text to chapter president: “I am resigning my pledge/membership effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
If fearing retaliation, report that fear to Dean of Students and campus police

Evidence Collection for Students

While it’s happening or immediately after:

Screenshots of group chats with timestamps and participant names visible
Voice memos/recordings (Texas is one-party consent state)
Photos/videos of injuries, locations, objects used
Save everything digital—don’t delete even if embarrassed
Medical documentation—tell providers you were hazed so it’s recorded
Witness information—names and contacts for others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

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

What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; can be obstruction of justice; ruins case
What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly

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

MISTAKE #3: Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms

What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements
Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue; settlements often far below case value
What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review first

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

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

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

What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract damaging statements
What to do instead: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer

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

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

MISTAKE #7: Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer

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

Frequently Asked Questions for Crowley Families

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

Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor, TCU) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”

It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

“Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”

Yes. Texas Education Code §37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

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

Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

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

Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

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

Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“How much will this cost? We can’t afford a lawyer.”

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover money for you. This makes justice accessible regardless of financial situation. Initial consultations are always free.

About The Manginello Law Firm: Why Crowley Families Choose Us for Hazing Cases

When your family in Crowley, Texas faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC (operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™), we bring unique qualifications that matter in hazing litigation.

Our Active Hazing Litigation: The UH Pi Kappa Phi Case

Right now, we’re leading one of Texas’ most serious hazing lawsuits: the $10 million case on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, and individual fraternity leaders. This isn’t historical—it’s active, ongoing litigation that demonstrates exactly what we do:

Case: Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston et al.
Injuries: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, four-day hospitalization
Hazing Allegations: Forced consumption, extreme physical abuse, “waterboarding” simulation
Status: Actively litigating in Harris County
Media Coverage: Click2Houston, ABC13, Hoodline

Why this matters for Crowley families: We’re not talking theory. We’re in court right now, taking on a major university and national fraternity. We know what it takes.

Unique Advantages We Bring to Crowley Hazing Cases

1. Insurance Insider Knowledge (Lupe Peña’s Background)

Mr. Lupe Peña (he/him) spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national defense firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Fight coverage under “intentional act” exclusions
Set reserves and negotiate settlements

“We know their playbook because we used to run it.” This insider knowledge is invaluable when negotiating with well-funded institutional insurers.

2. Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello’s Experience)

Managing Partner Ralph Manginello has taken on billion-dollar defendants before. His credentials include:

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against this corporate giant
Federal Court Experience: Admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
HCCLA Membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association signals elite criminal defense capability
25+ Years Practice: Since 1998 in complex personal injury and wrongful death

“We’re not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams.”

3. Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results

We have recovered millions for families in complex cases:

Logging accident brain injury with vision loss: Multi-million dollar settlement
Car accident leading to amputation: Multi-million dollar settlement
Offshore/maritime injuries: Significant settlements under Jones Act
Wrongful death cases: Economist collaboration for full lifetime valuation

We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.

4. Investigative Depth & Expert Network

Hazing cases require digging deep:

Digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages
Medical experts for rhabdomyolysis, TBI, kidney injury, PTSD
Greek life culture experts to explain coercion dynamics
Economists and life care planners for catastrophic injuries
Institutional policy experts to prove negligent supervision

“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

5. Texas Geographic Mastery

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we understand Texas courts, procedures, and venues statewide. For Crowley families, this means:

Familiarity with Tarrant County courts for TCU/UTA cases
Experience with Harris County for UH cases
Knowledge of Travis County for UT Austin cases
Understanding of Brazos County for Texas A&M cases
Efficiency across the state your student may attend

6. Bilingual Services for Hispanic Families

Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish. Hablamos Español. For Crowley’s Hispanic community, this means:

Consultation in Spanish if preferred
Cultural understanding of family dynamics
Clear communication in your preferred language

Our Philosophy: Accountability, Prevention, and Healing

We approach hazing cases with three goals:

Accountability: Hold every responsible party accountable—individuals, chapters, nationals, universities
Prevention: Use settlements and verdicts to force institutional change that protects future students
Healing: Secure compensation that enables medical care, therapy, and rebuilding lives

We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to carry the legal burden so you can focus on healing.

Call to Action: Next Steps for Crowley Families

If you or your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether here in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro at TCU or UTA, or further away at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other school—we want to hear from you.

What to Expect in Your Free, Confidential Consultation

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’ll speak directly with our team. Your consultation includes:

✅ Listening without judgment: We’ll hear your full story
✅ Evidence review: We’ll look at any photos, messages, medical records you have
✅ Legal options explained: We’ll outline criminal reporting, civil lawsuits, or other paths
✅ Realistic assessment: We’ll explain what’s possible based on similar cases
✅ Cost transparency: Contingency fee means no upfront costs; we only get paid if we win
✅ No pressure: Take time to decide what’s right for your family

Contact Information

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Legal Emergency Lawyers™

Phone: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781

Website: https://attorney911.com

Email:

Ralph Manginello: ralph@atty911.com
Lupe Peña: lupe@atty911.com

Hablamos Español – Spanish language services available

Serving Crowley, Tarrant County, and all of Texas from our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont

Final Message to Crowley Families

Whether you’re in Crowley proper, nearby Fort Worth, Arlington, Mansfield, Burleson, or anywhere across Tarrant County and the Dallas-Fort Worth metro, if hazing has impacted your family at any Texas university, you don’t have to face this alone.

The institutions involved—fraternities, sororities, universities—have teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters ready to protect their interests. You need the same level of representation fighting for yours.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let us help you get answers, secure accountability, and prevent this from happening to another family.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

For convenience, here are direct links to coverage of our active UH case and educational resources:

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez / 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: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

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