Hazing on Texas Campuses: A Comprehensive Legal Guide for Texas Families

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

Imagine it’s 2 a.m. in College Station. Your son, a promising freshman at Texas A&M, is standing in a fraternity house basement wearing only shorts in near-freezing temperatures. Older members are screaming instructions as he and other pledges perform endless push-ups on a concrete floor. Earlier that night, they were forced to chug milk until vomiting, then immediately told to run sprints. Your son’s muscles are screaming, but he’s more afraid of the social consequences of quitting than the physical danger. He texts you “all good” when you check in, not mentioning the brown urine he saw in the bathroom—a sign his body is beginning to break down.

This isn’t a hypothetical nightmare scenario. It’s what happened to Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston in fall 2025, and it’s happening right now to students across Texas. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC (Attorney911), we’re currently representing Bermudez in his $10 million hazing lawsuit against the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders. His case—involving forced consumption, extreme physical abuse, and resulting in rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure—shows exactly how dangerous modern hazing has become, even at our state’s most respected institutions.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for Texas families who need to understand what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas and federal law protects victims, what’s happening at University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, and what legal options exist when tradition turns to trauma.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCES:

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 Texas families, understanding modern hazing requires moving beyond “Animal House” stereotypes. Today’s hazing is often more systematic, digitally documented, and psychologically sophisticated than the crude pranks of decades past. What hasn’t changed is the profound physical and emotional harm it causes.

The Modern Definition: Coercion Disguised as Tradition

Hazing in 2025 is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. The critical distinction Texas parents must understand: “I agreed to it” or “I wanted to fit in” does not make it safe or legal when there exists the power imbalance of older members controlling younger ones’ social futures.

The Leonel Bermudez case at University of Houston illustrates this perfectly. According to the ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit, Bermudez faced:

A “pledge fanny pack” requirement 24/7 containing condoms, sex toys, and humiliating items
Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed immediately by sprints
Being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”
100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion
Hog-tying of another pledge face-down with an object in his mouth for over an hour

This wasn’t random cruelty—it was systematic abuse documented in group chats, organized by chapter leadership, and sustained over weeks.

The Five Categories of Modern Hazing

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing
The most common—and most deadly—form remains forced consumption. Texas families should watch for:

“Big/Little” nights with entire bottles of liquor
Drinking games tied to wrong answers or performance failures
Pressure to consume unknown substances or dangerous mixes
u003ePattern Seen at Texas Schools: The forced drinking that killed Stone Foltz at Bowling Green (Pi Kappa Alpha), Max Gruver at LSU (Phi Delta Theta), and nearly killed Leonel Bermudez at UH follows identical scripts.

2. Physical Hazing
Beyond traditional paddling, Texas students face:

“Smokings” or extreme calisthenics leading to rhabdomyolysis
Cold exposure in minimal clothing
Sleep deprivation spanning multiple days
Food/water restriction or forced overconsumption
u003eTexas A&M Specific: The Corps of Cadets has faced lawsuits alleging binding in “roasted pig” positions and simulated sexual acts.

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
Perhaps the most damaging psychologically:

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts (“elephant walks,” degrading positions)
Racial, gender, or sexual orientation-based degradation
Public humiliation via social media or group gatherings

4. Psychological Hazing
The invisible wounds:

Systematic verbal abuse and degradation
Social isolation from non-members
Threats of expulsion for non-compliance
Forced confessions or betrayal of friends

5. Digital/Online Hazing
The 2025 evolution:

Group chat dares with photographic proof requirements
Social media humiliation campaigns
Location tracking demands via Find My Friends
24/7 availability expectations with instant response demands
u003eEvidence Note: Our video Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case? | Attorney911 Explains shows how to properly preserve this digital evidence.

Where Hazing Happens: Beyond Fraternity Row

Texas parents often ask, “Could this happen to my daughter in a sorority?” or “What about the band?” The reality is hazing pervades many organizations:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural): All councils, all backgrounds
Corps of Cadets / ROTC: Military tradition doesn’t prevent abuse
Spirit and Tradition Groups: Texas Cowboys, cheer teams, dance teams
Athletic Teams: From football to swimming—Northwestern’s $50M+ scandal shows no program is immune
Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Florida A&M’s $1M settlement after a drum major’s death proved this
Academic and Service Organizations: Even honor societies and pre-professional groups

The common thread isn’t the type of organization but the power imbalance between established members and newcomers, combined with tradition used to justify cruelty.

Texas Hazing Law & Federal Protections: What Families Need to Know

Texas has some of the nation’s strongest anti-hazing statutes, but understanding how they interact with federal law and institutional policies is crucial for families seeking accountability.

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

Texas law defines hazing broadly and protects victims aggressively. Under Chapter 37, Subchapter F:

§ 37.151 Definition:
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 pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership

Plain English Translation:
If someone makes your child do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group—and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk—that’s hazing under Texas law, regardless of location or “consent.”

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (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 Crimes:

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

§ 37.155 The Most Important Provision:
“Consent is not a defense.” Even if your child said “yes” under peer pressure, it’s still a crime.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Different Paths to Justice

Texas families often confuse these parallel tracks:

Criminal Cases (State vs. Individuals):

Who brings it: District Attorney or County Attorney
Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Charges may include: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter
Burden of proof: Beyond reasonable doubt
Your role: Victim/witness, not party

Civil Cases (Your Family vs. Responsible Parties):

Who brings it: Your family with an attorney
Goal: Compensation and accountability
Claims may include: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
Burden of proof: Preponderance of evidence (more likely than not)
Your role: Plaintiff with control over the case

Critical Insight: You can pursue civil justice even if no criminal charges are filed. The standards differ, and universities/fraternities often escape criminal liability but face substantial civil liability.

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

Title IX (When Hazing Involves Sexual Harassment):
If hazing includes sexualized components (forced nudity, simulated acts, gender-based humiliation), Title IX requires universities to:

Conduct prompt, equitable investigations
Protect complainants from retaliation
Provide supportive measures
Potentially face federal funding loss for non-compliance

Clery Act Reporting:
Universities must report certain crimes, including:

Aggravated assault
Liquor law violations
Drug law violations
Hazing incidents that constitute these crimes

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
Beginning around 2026, colleges receiving federal aid must:

Publicly report hazing incidents annually
Strengthen hazing prevention education
Maintain transparent violation records
u003eTexas Transparency Leaders: UT Austin already publishes hazing violations at hazing.utexas.edu—a model other Texas schools should follow.

The Web of Liability: Who Can Be Held Responsible

1. Individual Students
The actors who planned, participated, or covered up hazing. Even “just following orders” isn’t a defense.

2. Chapter Leadership
Presidents, pledge educators, risk managers who authorized or failed to stop hazing. In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, 13 individual leaders are named defendants.

3. Local Chapter Entities
Texas-registered housing corporations and alumni associations with assets and insurance.

4. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters
Organizations that:

Collect dues from the chapter
Provide “risk management” training
Have prior knowledge of similar incidents at other chapters
Fail to adequately supervise or intervene

5. Universities and Their Governing Boards
Schools may be liable for:

Deliberate indifference to known patterns
Negligent supervision of recognized organizations
Failure to enforce their own policies
Premises liability for on-campus incidents
u003eSovereign Immunity Note: Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some protection, but exceptions exist for gross negligence and Title IX violations. Private schools (SMU, Baylor) have less protection.

6. Third Parties

Property owners of off-campus houses
Alcohol providers under dram shop laws
Security companies failing to protect

National Hazing Case Patterns: The Scripts That Keep Repeating

The tragic cases below aren’t just national news—they’re playbooks for what Texas families might face and legal precedents for holding organizations accountable.

Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: The Deadliest Tradition

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

What happened: Bid acceptance night with forced drinking, dangerous falls captured on chapter cameras, 12-hour delay in calling 911.
Legal outcome: 18 members charged with 1,000+ counts; some convictions; civil settlements; Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania.
Texas lesson: Security footage and delayed medical care become powerful evidence. The “brotherhood” often protects the chapter before the injured.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

What happened: “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers required drinking; 0.495% BAC death.
Legal outcome: Negligent homicide conviction; Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony in Louisiana; civil settlements.
Texas lesson: “Educational” framing doesn’t protect organizations. Texas has similar felony provisions for injury/death.

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

What happened: Big/Little night forcing consumption of entire liquor bottle.
Legal outcome: $10 million settlement ($7M from national Pike, ~$3M from BGSU); criminal convictions; chapter president ordered to pay $6.5 million personally.
Texas lesson: National organizations and individuals can face enormous liability. Settlement funds often establish foundations to prevent future deaths.

Physical and Ritualized Hazing: Violence Disguised as Tradition

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

What happened: Blindfolded, weighted-down pledge repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual at Pennsylvania retreat; delayed 911 call.
Legal outcome: National fraternity criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; 10-year ban from Pennsylvania.
Texas lesson: Off-campus retreats don’t provide immunity. National organizations can face criminal—not just civil—consequences.

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

What happened: Pledge forced to drink excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”; suffered permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; needs 24/7 care).
Legal outcome: Settlements with 22 defendants; multi-million dollar compensation for lifetime care.
Texas lesson: Non-fatal injuries can bring catastrophic damages. Life care plans for permanent disability drive settlement values.

Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

What happened: Systemic sexualized, racist hacing spanning years; “carwash” rituals and coerced acts.
Legal outcome: Multiple lawsuits; head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired then settled wrongful-termination confidentially; university facing massive liability.
Texas lesson: No athletic program is immune. Tradition and team bonding excuses fail in court.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national patterns matter because:

Foreseeability: When a Texas chapter repeats a script that killed someone elsewhere, courts see that as predictable.
Settlement Ranges: $1M–$14M for deaths; $375K–multi-million for serious injuries set market expectations.
Legal Strategies: Successful plaintiff approaches in other states inform Texas litigation.
Precedent: Court rulings on national liability, insurance coverage, and punitive damages guide Texas judges.

The Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case shows these national patterns playing out right here in Texas—forced drinking, physical abuse, delayed medical response, and systematic cover-up attempts.

Texas University Focus: What’s Happening at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor

As Texas parents, you deserve to know what’s actually happening at the schools where you entrust your children’s safety. Below, we analyze each major Texas Greek life university with specific incidents, policies, and practical guidance.

University of Houston: Urban Campus, Systemic Problems

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UH’s commuter-school reputation belies an active Greek system with 50+ chapters across four councils. The urban Houston location means hazing often moves to off-campus houses in Third Ward, Midtown, and Montrose—areas outside UHPD’s primary jurisdiction.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
UH prohibits hazing both on and off-campus and provides reporting through:

Dean of Students Office
UHPD (713-743-3333)
Online reporting forms
Office of Student Conduct

Documented Incidents: The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Case
The ongoing Leonel Bermudez lawsuit reveals systemic issues:

September–November 2025: Systematic abuse including forced drinking, extreme exercise, humiliation rituals
Medical Outcome: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization
Institutional Response: Pi Kappa Phi national suspended chapter November 6; chapter voted to surrender charter November 14; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”
Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual members

Earlier Patterns:

2016 Pi Kappa Alpha Incident: Pledge suffered lacerated spleen from being slammed on table during multi-day deprivation event
Various Alcohol/Hazing Violations: Multiple chapters suspended or placed on probation for alcohol-related hazing

How a UH Hazing Case Proceeds

Jurisdiction: Harris County courts (downtown Houston)
Investigating Agencies: UHPD, Houston Police Department, Harris County Sheriff
Common Defense Challenges: Off-campus location arguments, “consent” claims, university sovereign immunity

What UH Students & Parents Should Do

Report Immediately: Use UH’s online reporting for documentation trail
Medical Documentation: Houston has world-class medical centers—get thorough exams at Memorial Hermann or Baylor St. Luke’s
Evidence Preservation: Houston-based digital forensics experts can recover deleted group chats
Legal Venue: Harris County courts are familiar with institutional litigation
University Records: Request prior disciplinary actions against the same chapter via public records requests

Texas A&M University: Tradition and Trauma in College Station

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Two distinct but overlapping hazing environments:

Greek Life: 60+ chapters in a highly competitive social landscape
Corps of Cadets: Military-style tradition with documented abuse patterns

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
A&M’s “Aggie Honor Code” includes anti-hazing provisions. Reporting through:

Student Conduct Office
Corps of Cadets Commandant’s Office
University Police (979-845-2345)

Documented Incidents: Corps and Greek Cases

Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023):

Allegations: Cadet bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth; simulated sexual acts; systemic degradation
Lawsuit: Seeking over $1 million
University Response: “Handled through Corps regulations”

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns (2021):

What happened: Pledges covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts
Lawsuit: $1 million demand
Outcome: Chapter suspended 2 years

Ongoing Kappa Sigma Rhabdomyolysis Case (2023–):

What happened: Extreme physical hazing leading to muscle breakdown
Status: Active litigation with specialized medical experts

How a Texas A&M Case Proceeds

Jurisdiction: Brazos County courts
Investigating Agencies: University Police, College Station PD, Brazos County Sheriff
Unique Aspects: Corps cases involve military-style chain of command issues; Greek cases often involve national organizations with Texas headquarters

What Texas A&M Families Should Do

Medical Attention: CHI St. Joseph Health in Bryan has experience with hazing injuries
Corps-Specific Reporting: Chain of command reports + civilian authorities
Tradition Documentation: Save any “buddy books,” training manuals, or tradition guides
Witness Coordination: Other Corps members or Greek pledges often have parallel experiences

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Repeated Violations

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UT’s 60+ chapters operate in one of the nation’s most transparent hazing environments—and the published data shows persistent problems.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
UT’s public hazing.utexas.edu database shows:

Organization names
Violation dates and descriptions
Sanctions imposed
Reporting via Office of the Dean of Students, UTPD (512-471-4441)

Documented Violations from Public Database

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023):

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

Texas Wranglers (Multiple Entries):

Pattern: Forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, tradition-based abuse
Sanction History: Probation, suspension, educational requirements

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (2024):

What happened: Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted at party; dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
Lawsuit: Over $1 million demand
Context: Chapter already under suspension for prior violations

How a UT Case Proceeds

Jurisdiction: Travis County courts (downtown Austin)
Investigating Agencies: UTPD, Austin Police Department
Advantage: Public violation database provides pattern evidence for civil cases

What UT Students & Parents Should Do

Check the Database: hazing.utexas.edu shows if an organization has prior violations
Medical Documentation: UT’s University Health Services plus Seton Medical Center for emergencies
Digital Evidence: Austin’s tech expertise supports sophisticated digital forensics
Public Records Strategy: UT’s transparency allows aggressive records requests

Southern Methodist University: Private School, Private Problems

Campus & Culture Snapshot
SMU’s affluent student body and strong Greek tradition (45% participation) create intense social competition where hazing flourishes despite private school resources.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
SMU’s private status means less public transparency but reporting through:

Office of Student Affairs
SMU Police (214-768-3388)
Anonymous “Real Response” system

Documented Incidents

Kappa Alpha Order (2017):

What happened: Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation
Sanction: Multi-year suspension, recruitment restrictions until 2021

Ongoing Investigations (2024–2025):

Multiple chapters under investigation for alcohol hazing, physical abuse
SMU’s private settlement agreements often include confidentiality clauses

How an SMU Case Proceeds

Jurisdiction: Dallas County courts
Investigating Agencies: SMU Police, Dallas Police (for off-campus incidents)
Challenges: Private university fights disclosure; alumni donor pressure affects responses

What SMU Families Should Do

Medical Attention: UT Southwestern and Baylor Dallas provide excellent care
Confidentiality Awareness: SMU may push confidential settlements—consult attorney first
Alumni Network Pressure: Recognize that donor interests may conflict with victim justice
Private Investigation: SMU’s internal investigations aren’t FOIA-able—need discovery in litigation

Baylor University: Faith, Football, and Failure to Protect

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Baylor’s Baptist affiliation contrasts with its recent history of institutional failure regarding athlete misconduct. Greek life exists within this complex culture.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
Baylor’s “zero tolerance” policy meets reporting through:

Student Activities Office
Baylor Police (254-710-2222)
Online reporting forms

Documented Incidents

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020):

What happened: 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Sanction: Staggered suspensions across season
Context: Part of broader athletic department scrutiny post-sexual assault scandal

Greek Life Investigations (Ongoing):

Periodic suspensions for alcohol hazing
Disconnect between public Christian branding and private conduct

How a Baylor Case Proceeds

Jurisdiction: McLennan County courts
Investigating Agencies: Baylor Police, Waco PD
Unique Aspects: Religious affiliation may affect jury pools; Title IX issues overlap with hazing

What Baylor Families Should Do

Medical Documentation: Baylor Scott & White provides local care; consider Austin/Houston specialists
Title IX Overlap: Document any gender-based or sexualized components
Institutional History Awareness: Baylor’s prior scandals affect how they handle new allegations
Faith Community Support: Church networks can provide emotional support during litigation

Fraternities and Sororities: National Patterns, Texas Chapters

Understanding that local chapters are part of national organizations with documented hazing histories is crucial for Texas families. These patterns show foreseeability—what should have been prevented.

Why National Histories Matter in Texas Courts

When a Texas chapter repeats behaviors that killed someone in Ohio or Louisiana, courts consider:

Prior Notice: Did the national organization know this type of hazing was occurring?
Foreseeability: Was this injury/death predictable based on similar incidents?
Adequate Prevention: Did training and policies actually prevent harm or just create paper trails?

Major National Organizations with Texas Chapters

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

National History: Stone Foltz death (Bowling Green), David Bogenberger death (Northern Illinois), multiple forced drinking deaths
Texas Chapters: Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor with periodic violations
Liability Pattern: National settled $7M in Foltz case; local chapters repeat similar “Big/Little” drinking traditions

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

National History: Multiple hazing deaths nationally; traumatic brain injury lawsuit at Alabama; eliminated pledge system in 2014 due to pattern
Texas Chapters: Chemical burns case at Texas A&M; assault case at UT; active at all five major Texas schools
Liability Pattern: Despite “no pledge” policy, hazing continues via “new member education”

Phi Delta Theta

National History: Max Gruver death (LSU) leading to felony hazing law
Texas Chapters: Active across Texas with alcohol-related violations
Liability Pattern: Drinking games framed as “education” or “tradition”

Pi Kappa Phi

National History: Andrew Coffey death (Florida State)
Texas Chapters: UH Beta Nu currently shut down after Bermudez case
Liability Pattern: Physical hazing combined with alcohol coercion

Kappa Alpha Order

National History: Paddling traditions, multiple suspensions
Texas Chapters: SMU chapter suspended 2017–2021 for paddling/forced drinking
Liability Pattern: “Southern tradition” used to justify physical abuse

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Tracking Organizational Networks

Our firm maintains what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a database tracking 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros. This includes:

IRS B83 Texas-Registered Entities (125 organizations):

Housing corporations with EINs and legal addresses
Alumni chapters
Honor societies
Sample listings that show the organizational backbone:
- Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN 462267515) – Frisco, TX 75035
- Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (EIN 746064445) – Nederland, TX 77627
- Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc (EIN 741380362) – Fort Worth, TX 76147

Texas University Connections:
Tracking which nationals operate at which schools helps show pattern:

Same national = similar hazing methods across campuses
Prior incidents at Chapter A predict risks at Chapter B
National training deficiencies affect all chapters

Metro-Level Organizational Density:

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington: 510 Greek organizations
Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land: 188 organizations
Austin-Round Rock: 154 organizations
天下Practical Application: When we represent a family, we already know the organizational structure behind the letters—house corporations, alumni associations, national headquarters—and how to pursue each layer of liability.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy

Successful hazing litigation requires understanding what evidence matters, how damages are calculated, and how to navigate institutional defense tactics.

Critical Evidence Categories

1. Digital Communications (The Modern Smoking Gun)

Group Messaging: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage groups showing planning, bragging, cover-ups
Social Media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat stories, TikTok videos of incidents
Recovery Potential: Even deleted messages can often be recovered via cloud backups or forensic tools
u003ePreservation Tip: Our video Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case? shows proper screenshot techniques before deletion.

2. Photo & Video Evidence

Injury Documentation: Date-stamped photos showing progression
Event Footage: Party videos, initiation recordings
Location Evidence: House exteriors, room layouts
Object Preservation: Paddles, alcohol bottles, “pledge manuals”

3. Internal Organization Documents

Pledge Education Materials: Often contain hazing instructions in coded language
Chapter Meeting Minutes: May reference “traditions” or “consequences”
National Communications: Emails about prior incidents or risk management

4. University Records

Prior Conduct Files: Showing pattern of violations
Campus Police Reports: Often under-reported but existent
Clery Act Reports: Required crime statistics
Title IX Investigations: If hazing had sexualized components

5. Medical & Psychological Records

Emergency Care: ER records, toxicology reports
Specialist Treatment: Nephrology for kidney damage, psychiatry for PTSD
Long-Term Documentation: Ongoing therapy records establishing chronic impact

6. Witness Testimony

Other Pledges: Often experiencing parallel abuse
Former Members: Who quit due to hazing or conscience
Roommates/Partners: Who observed changes or injuries
Medical Providers: Who documented statements about cause

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

Medical Expenses: Past and future care—for rhabdomyolysis cases like Bermudez’s, this can include lifelong kidney monitoring
Lost Educational Costs: Tuition for withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships
Diminished Earning Capacity: If injuries affect career trajectory
Therapy & Counseling: PTSD treatment often needed for years

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm)

Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries and recovery
Emotional Distress: Humiliation, anxiety, depression
Loss of Enjoyment: Can’t participate in college life normally
Reputational Harm: Social stigma of being “the hazing victim”

Wrongful Death Damages (When Tragedy Strikes)

Funeral & Burial Costs
Loss of Financial Support: Future earnings the student would have contributed
Loss of Companionship: For parents, siblings, partners
Emotional Suffering: Grief, trauma of sudden loss

Punitive Damages (When Conduct is Egregious)

Purpose: Punish and deter extremely reckless or intentional conduct
When Awarded: Prior warnings ignored, cover-up attempts, particularly cruel acts
Texas Caps: Generally limited, but exceptions exist for certain intentional conduct

Navigating Institutional Defense Tactics

Common Defense #1: “The Pledge Consented”

Our Response: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense. Power imbalance and coercion negate true consent.

Common Defense #2: “Rogue Chapter, National Didn’t Know”

Our Response: Pattern evidence from other chapters, inadequate supervision, and prior incidents show constructive knowledge.

Common Defense #3: “Off-Campus, Not Our Responsibility”

Our Response: Sponsorship, control, and foreseeability create duty regardless of location.

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

Our Response: Paper policies without enforcement constitute negligence, not protection.

Common Defense #5: “University Sovereign Immunity”

Our Response: Exceptions for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual capacity suits.

Insurance Coverage Battles

Fraternity and university insurers often deny coverage claiming “intentional acts”
Our insider insurance knowledge (Mr. Peña’s defense background) helps navigate these disputes
Multiple policy layers (national, local, university, individual) may provide recovery

Practical Guides & FAQs for Texas Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Hazed:

Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns
Extreme exhaustion beyond academic stress
Personality changes: anxiety, withdrawal, irritability
Secretive about organization activities
Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
Financial strain from unexplained expenses
Academic performance decline

How to Talk to Your Child:

Non-Judgmental Opening: “How are things with [organization]? Are they respecting your time?”
Specific but Gentle: “Have they asked you to do anything that made you uncomfortable?”
Safety First: “Your health matters more than any membership.”
Document Offers: “If you want to show me texts or photos, I can help you save them properly.”

48-Hour Action Checklist:

Hour 0-6: Medical attention, evidence preservation, attorney call
Hour 6-24: Digital backup, witness list, university notification
Hour 24-48: Strategic decisions about reporting, legal representation
Week 1: Medical follow-up, formal evidence collection, case planning

For Students: Safety and Evidence

Is This Hazing? Quick Self-Assessment:
145; Would I do this without social pressure?

Is it dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew details?
Am I told to keep secrets?
If YES to any→It’s likely hazing.

Safe Exit Strategies:

Text chapter leadership: “I resign effective immediately”
Notify someone outside first (parent, RA, friend)
Do NOT attend “one last meeting”—that’s where pressure intensifies
If threatened, report to campus police for protective measures

Evidence Collection Priority List:

Screenshots of group chats with timestamps visible
Injury photos with scale references (coin, ruler)
Medical records explicitly stating “hazing” as cause
Witness contact information
Physical items used in hazing

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKE #1: Deleting Evidence

Why wrong: Looks like cover-up; destroys best evidence
Right approach: Preserve everything; let attorneys determine relevance

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization

Why wrong: Triggers evidence destruction, witness coaching
Right approach: Document quietly, let attorneys handle communication

MISTAKE #3: Signing University Agreements

Why wrong: May waive legal rights; settlements often inadequate
Right approach: “I need my attorney to review this first”

MISTAKE #4: Social Media Posting

Why wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Right approach: Private documentation only; let attorneys control messaging

MISTAKE #5: Waiting for University Investigation

Why wrong: Evidence disappears; statute clock runs; university controls narrative
Right approach: Parallel preservation and legal consultation

Watch our video Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case for more detailed guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

“Can we sue a Texas public university for hazing?”
Yes, with strategic navigation of sovereign immunity. Exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual capacity suits. Public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT have settled hazing cases (Bowling Green State–public–paid $3M in Foltz case).

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas Education Code § 37.152 makes hazing a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. “Serious bodily injury” includes protracted loss or impairment, serious permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss/impairment of organ/bodily function.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to participate?”
Irrelevant under Texas law. § 37.155 explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from date of injury or death in Texas, but consult an attorney immediately because:

Evidence disappears quickly
The “discovery rule” may extend time if harm wasn’t immediately known
Fraudulent concealment by organizations may toll the statute
Our video Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case? explains timing complexities.

“Will this be public or can it stay confidential?”
Most hazing 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 vs. civil case?”
They’re separate tracks. You can pursue civil justice even if prosecutors don’t file criminal charges. In fact, the lower burden of proof in civil cases often makes accountability more achievable.

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

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how universities and national fraternities fight back—and how to win anyway.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña’s Defense Background)
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
Set reserves and negotiate settlements
His insider perspective means we don’t just react to their strategies—we anticipate and counter them.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello’s BP Credential)
As one of the few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation, we’ve faced billion-dollar defendants with unlimited legal budgets. That experience directly applies to taking on:

National fraternities with deep pockets
University systems with sovereign immunity arguments
Multi-defendant coordination challenges
We’re not intimidated by institutional power—we’ve defeated it before.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results
Our track record includes:

Multi-million dollar settlements for wrongful death
Life care planning for permanent disability cases
Economist collaboration for future earnings loss
Experience with rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD, and other hazing injuries
We don’t settle cheap—we build cases that force real accountability.

Criminal + Civil Dual Capability
Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand:

How criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Defense strategies employed in criminal cases
How to advise witnesses with potential dual exposure
This dual perspective is unique among Texas firms handling hazing cases.

Investigative Depth and Expert Network
We maintain what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—tracking 1,423 Greek organizations across Texas. For each case, we deploy:

Digital forensics experts for deleted message recovery
Medical specialists for injury documentation
Greek life culture experts for tradition analysis
Economists for damage calculation
Psychologists for trauma assessment

Spanish-Language Services for Texas Families
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can consult with families in their preferred language—critical for serving Texas’ diverse population.

Our Approach: Empathy Meets Aggressive Advocacy

We understand this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our approach balances:

Thorough Investigation:

We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does
No stone unturned: digital evidence, organizational records, witness interviews
Pattern identification across chapters and campuses

Strategic Navigation of University Systems:

Experience with UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor procedures
Understanding of when to cooperate and when to litigate
Protection against university pressure tactics

Privacy Protection:

Confidential settlement preference
Media management if cases become public
Sensitivity to victim trauma and family emotional needs

Accountability Focus:

Not just about compensation—about preventing future harm
Settlement terms that sometimes include institutional reforms
Legacy considerations for families who want meaning from tragedy

What to Expect When You Contact Us

Your Free, Confidential Consultation:

We Listen: Your story, your concerns, your goals—no judgment
Evidence Review: We’ll look at what you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
Options Explained: Criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither—pros and cons of each
Realistic Expectations: Timelines, challenges, potential outcomes
Cost Transparency: Contingency fee basis—we don’t get paid unless you recover
No Pressure: Take time to decide; we’re here when you’re ready

The Contingency Fee Advantage:

No upfront costs
No hourly bills
We cover case expenses
Fee percentage only if we win
See our video How Do Contingency Fees Work? for detailed explanation

Call to Action: Your Next Step Toward Justice

If your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus—University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other Texas school—we want to hear from you today.

Why Time is Critical:

Evidence disappears within days (deleted messages, coached witnesses)
Statutes of limitations are running
Universities begin their damage control immediately
Your child’s recovery—physical and emotional—shouldn’t be delayed

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation:

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
24/7 Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Spanish Services: lupe@atty911.com

Serving Families Throughout Texas From Our Offices In:

Houston, Texas (Harris County)
Austin, Texas (Travis County)
Beaumont, Texas (Jefferson County)

We Handle Cases Involving:

Fraternity and sorority hazing
Corps of Cadets abuse
Athletic team hazing
Spirit organization misconduct
Band and performance group hazing
Any organization where power imbalance leads to harm

You don’t have to navigate this alone. The institutions involved have experienced lawyers protecting their interests—you deserve the same fierce advocacy for your child’s rights, health, and future.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today. Let’s start getting answers, accountability, and justice for your family.

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

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

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 Fee Explanation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Main Website & Contact:

Attorney911: https://attorney911.com