Hazing in Delta County: A Comprehensive Guide for Texas Families

The quietude of Delta County, nestled in the heart of Northeast Texas, often belies the bustling lives of its residents. Many families here cherish community values and diligently plan for their children’s futures, often envisioning higher education at esteemed Texas institutions like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Southern Methodist University, or Baylor. Imagine the pride of a Delta County parent as their child heads off to college, only for that hope to be shattered by a late-night phone call – their child is in the emergency room, suffering from an unexplained injury after a “new member event,” or worse, found unresponsive. Even as they struggle to understand, a darker truth emerges: that event was hazing.

If this scenario sends a chill down your spine, you are not alone. Across Texas, families grapple with the devastating consequences of hazing, a practice that continues to plague campuses despite decades of warnings and legal prohibitions. Whether your student is at a large public university near a major city such as Houston, or a private institution, the risks and realities of hazing are often the same.

This guide is for families in Delta County and across Texas who need to cut through the confusion and fear surrounding hazing. We have meticulously compiled comprehensive information to help you understand:

• What modern hazing truly looks like in 2025, far beyond outdated stereotypes.
• The legal framework in Texas that prohibits hazing and holds perpetrators and institutions accountable.
• Key national hazing cases and what they reveal about recurring patterns of abuse.
• The specific hazing challenges and historical incidents at major Texas universities, including the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University.
• How the national histories of fraternities and sororities can indicate a pattern of risk for local chapters.
• The critical steps families in Delta County can take to investigate hazing, preserve evidence, and seek justice.

While this article provides general information, it is not specific legal advice. Every hazing incident is unique, and circumstances vary. However, The Manginello Law Firm, also known as Attorney911, is dedicated to supporting victims and their families throughout Texas, including those right here in Delta County. We offer expert legal guidance to help you navigate these challenging situations.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 911 for medical emergencies, and ensure they get immediate medical attention.
  • 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, every action counts:

  • Get medical attention for your child immediately, even if they insist they are “fine.” This prioritizes their health and creates an official medical record.
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
    • Screenshot group chats, text messages, and direct messages (DMs) from all platforms immediately.
    • Photograph any visible injuries from multiple angles and lighting conditions.
    • Secure any physical items like damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or objects used in hazing activities.
  • Write down everything you remember while the details are fresh: who, what, when, where, and any specific statements made.
  • Do NOT:
    • Directly confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization involved, as this can lead to evidence destruction or retaliation.
    • Sign any documents from the university or an insurance company without first consulting an attorney.
    • Post details about the incident on public social media, which could compromise a future legal case.
    • Allow your child to delete messages or “clean up” any evidence.

• Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

  • Evidence can vanish quickly, from deleted digital messages to destroyed physical items.
  • Universities and organizations often move swiftly to control the narrative surrounding such incidents.
  • An attorney can help preserve crucial evidence and protect your child’s rights from the outset.
  • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Delta County families who may be unfamiliar with how hazing has evolved, it is crucial to understand that it extends far beyond the “boys will be boys” pranks of decades past. Modern hazing involves a complex array of psychological manipulation, extreme physical demands, and dangerous situations, often amplified by digital technologies. It is rarely a harmless prank; it is a systematic infliction of discomfort, humiliation, or danger designed to enforce hierarchy and “earn” membership.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

In simple terms, hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action connected to joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status within a group. This includes fraternities, sororities, sports teams, clubs, or military organizations. If the action endangers a student’s physical or mental health, humiliates them, or exploits them, it falls under the definition of hazing. It is important to emphasize that a student’s “agreement” or “consent” to participate does not make the activity safe or legal, especially when there is coercion, peer pressure, or an inherent power imbalance.

Main Categories of Modern Hazing

Modern hazing tactics are diverse and insidious, often designed to avoid direct detection while inflicting significant harm. They can be broadly categorized as follows:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most dangerous forms, frequently leading to hospitalizations and fatalities. It involves:

  • Forced or coerced drinking: Requiring pledges to consume large quantities of alcohol in a short period, often through “lineups,” chugging challenges, or drinking games where refusal is not an option.
  • Bottle exchanges: Pledges being given a bottle of hard liquor to consume entirely, often on “Big/Little” reveal nights.
  • Pressure to consume unknown substances: Coercing students to ingest drugs, illicit or otherwise, or other dangerous substances.

• Physical Hazing: These acts inflict direct bodily harm or extreme physical discomfort.

  • Paddling and beatings: Direct physical violence, often with objects like paddles or fists.
  • Extreme calisthenics or “workouts”: Forced physical exertion beyond reasonable limits, sometimes called “smokings,” which can lead to serious injuries like rhabdomyolysis.
  • Sleep and food deprivation: Denying new members adequate rest or nutrition, leading to exhaustion, impaired judgment, and vulnerability.
  • Exposure to elements: Forcing students into extreme environmental conditions (e.g., cold temperatures in minimal clothing) or dangerous locations.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These tactics aim to degrade and demean new members, often with lasting psychological trauma.

  • Forced nudity or partial nudity: Stripping individuals or making them engage in acts in various states of undress.
  • Simulated sexual acts: Forcing individuals to perform or watch sexually degrading acts, sometimes involving bizarre or humiliating positions (“roasted pig”).
  • Wearing degrading costumes: Requiring new members to wear embarrassing or demeaning clothing in public.
  • Racial or sexist overtones: Acts designed to target or mock individuals based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics.

• Psychological Hazing: These methods target mental and emotional well-being, eroding self-esteem and fostering deep anxiety.

  • Verbal abuse and threats: Constant yelling, insults, intimidation, and mind games.
  • Social isolation: Restricting contact with friends, family, or other campus groups to foster complete dependence on the organization.
  • Forced confessions or manipulation: Coercing individuals to reveal personal information or endure manipulative scenarios.
  • Public shaming: Humiliating students in front of peers, whether in person or online.

• Digital/Online Hazing: The rise of technology has transformed hazing, creating new avenues for abuse and control.

  • Group chat control: Constant monitoring of new member group chats, demanding immediate responses at all hours, or using private channels for instructions.
  • Social media dares: Forcing pledges to perform embarrassing acts on Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok, or to post compromising content.
  • Geo-tracking: Requiring new members to share their real-time location using apps like Find My Friends, ensuring compliance with movement restrictions.
  • Screenshots and sharing: Using digital platforms to capture and share humiliating moments among members.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

It is a common misconception that hazing is narrowly confined to traditional fraternities. The unfortunate reality is that hazing culture can infiltrate almost any campus group characterized by hierarchy, exclusivity, and tradition. In Delta County, as in other communities, it is essential for families to be aware that hazing can occur within:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes all types of Greek letter organizations (Greek life), whether they are part of the Interfraternity Council (IFC), National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) for historically Black Greek letter organizations, or various multicultural Greek councils.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Organizations with a strong emphasis on discipline and tradition, such as the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M, can sometimes allow hazing to masquerade as “training” or “disciplining.”
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs, and Campus Organizations: Groups focused on school spirit, student traditions, or even seemingly innocuous activities can develop hazing elements. This includes groups like the Texas Cowboys at UT Austin or similar campus institutions.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to soccer, baseball, track, and cheerleading squads, hazing in sports often involves physical abuse, humiliation, and coerced substance use disguised as “team bonding” or “toughening up.”
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly benign groups can develop hazing cultures, with initiation rituals that cause physical or psychological harm.
• Some Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any group with a “new member” or “pledge” phase and a perceived hierarchy can be vulnerable to hazing if not properly supervised and monitored.

The critical thread connecting all these scenarios is not the type of organization, but the presence of social status, tradition, and secrecy, which collectively allow these practices to persist despite official prohibitions.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing in Texas is crucial for families in Delta County whose children attend or plan to attend a Texas university. Both state and federal laws, as well as institutional policies, provide avenues for accountability.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific, robust laws against hazing, detailed primarily in the Texas Education Code – Chapter 37, Subchapter F. These laws are designed to protect students and hold individuals and organizations accountable.

§ 37.151. Definition of Hazing:
Under Texas law, hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

This definition is broad and covers a wide range of harmful behaviors. Key aspects for Delta County families to understand are:

• Location is irrelevant: Hazing is prohibited whether it happens on campus grounds or at an off-campus house, retreat, or other private location.
• Both mental and physical harm: The law recognizes that hazing can inflict severe psychological as well as physical damage.
• Intent: An individual or organization doesn’t necessarily have to intend malice. “Reckless” conduct—meaning they were aware of a significant risk but disregarded it—is enough for a hazing violation.
• “Consent” is not a defense: Even if a student appears to “agree” to participating, if the act is dangerous or demeaning and part of an initiation, it is still legally considered hazing. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states this.

§ 37.152. Criminal Penalties:
Texas law outlines specific criminal penalties for hazing:

• By default, hazing is a Class B Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.
• The charge can escalate to a Class A Misdemeanor if the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical attention.
• Crucially, if hazing results in serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a State Jail Felony, carrying a potential sentence of 180 days to two years in a state jail facility, and a fine of up to $10,000.

Additionally, individuals (including officers or members of an organization) who:

• Fail to report hazing when they have knowledge of it can be charged with a misdemeanor.
• Retaliate against someone who reports hazing can also face misdemeanor charges.

§ 37.153. Organizational Liability:
Organizations themselves can be held criminally responsible for hazing if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing activities.
• An officer or member acting in their official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it.

Penalties for organizations can include fines of up to $10,000 per violation, and universities often impose campus-level sanctions such as revoking recognition and banning the organization from campus for a period or permanently.

§ 37.154. Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting:
To encourage reporting, Texas law provides immunity for individuals who report hazing in good faith. A person who genuinely reports an incident to university officials or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability for making that report. Many Texas universities also have “Good Samaritan” or medical amnesty policies, offering protection for individuals who call for help in an emergency (such as alcohol poisoning), even if they were underage drinking or involved in the hazing.

§ 37.156. Reporting by Educational Institutions:
Texas colleges and universities are mandated to:

• Implement and distribute hazing prevention education to their students.
• Clearly publish their hazing policies.
• Annually publish reports detailing all hazing violations and disciplinary actions taken by the institution. This creates a valuable public record that Delta County families can research.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, there are typically two distinct legal pathways: criminal cases and civil cases. It is important to understand that these can proceed independently or concurrently, and a criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for a successful civil claim.

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated and pursued by the state or district attorney’s office, representing the public interest. The primary goal of a criminal prosecution is to punish illegal conduct. In hazing incidents, prosecutors might file charges ranging from misdemeanor hazing (as defined in the Education Code) to felony charges if serious injury or death occurs. Other related criminal charges could include assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, or even manslaughter. The penalties for convicted individuals or organizations typically involve fines, probation, or incarceration.

• Civil Cases: These lawsuits are brought directly by victims of hazing or, in wrongful death cases, by their surviving family members. The purpose of a civil lawsuit is not punishment but rather to obtain monetary compensation—known as “damages”—for the harm suffered. Civil claims related to hazing often allege:

  • Negligence: That individuals, groups, or institutions failed to exercise reasonable care, and this failure led to the hazing incident and injuries.
  • Gross Negligence: A more severe form of negligence involving a conscious indifference to the safety of others.
  • Wrongful Death: When hazing results in a fatality, family members can sue for their losses.
  • Assault and Battery: For physical harms inflicted.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe psychological trauma.
  • Premises Liability: If the hazing occurred on property where the owner or occupier had a duty to maintain safe conditions.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also play a role, particularly in shaping university responsibilities.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal funds must:

  • Publicly report all hazing violations and the sanctions imposed. This will make hazing data much more transparent and accessible to Delta County families.
  • Implement comprehensive hazing education and prevention programs.
  • The requirements for public reporting are being phased in by around 2026, promising greater accountability.

• Title IX: This federal civil rights law prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based discrimination or hostility, it can trigger a university’s Title IX obligations. This means the university must respond promptly and effectively to address the conduct.

• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. While the Clery Act doesn’t specifically target hazing, many hazing incidents involve underlying crimes (like assault, sexual assault, alcohol violations) that must be reported in a university’s annual security report. This data can provide insights into campus safety and a potential pattern of misconduct.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining who can be held liable in a civil hazing lawsuit is complex, but generally encompasses several parties, particularly in Texas:

• Individual Students: Those who actively planned, orchestrated, participated in, or permitted the hazing activities can be sued. This includes students who supplied alcohol, carried out physical acts, or helped cover up the incident. In the Stone Foltz case in Ohio, one individual fraternity president was ordered to personally pay $6.5 million.
• Local Chapter / Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, or student club involved can be held liable, especially if it operates as a recognized legal entity. Officers and “pledge educators” who were aware of or directed the hazing often face direct liability.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters of Greek organizations can be sued. Liability often hinges on whether the national organization knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing within its chapters, failed to adequately train or supervise local chapters, or had anti-hazing policies that were mere “paper policies” and not genuinely enforced. Their broad insurance policies are a key target for litigation.
• University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself, or its governing board (like the Board of Regents for public universities), can be held liable. This occurs when the university acted negligently by:
  • Failing to enforce its own anti-hazing policies.
  • Ignoring prior warnings or known hazing incidents.
  • Failing to properly train or supervise staff involved with student organizations.
  • Creating an environment that tacitly permitted hazing.
  • In Texas, public institutions like UT, UH, and Texas A&M have some sovereign immunity protection, but exceptions for gross negligence, ministerial acts, and Title IX violations can allow lawsuits to proceed. Private schools like SMU and Baylor typically have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: Depending on the incident, other entities may also bear responsibility:
  • Landlords/Property Owners: If the hazing occurred at an off-campus house where the owner knew or should have known about the dangerous activities.
  • Alcohol Providers: Bars, liquor stores, or individuals who illegally furnished alcohol to minors if that contributed to the hazing injury or death.
  • Event Organizers/Security Firms: If they were hired to supervise an event where hazing took place and failed in their duty of care.

The intricate web of potential defendants often requires a specialized and experienced legal team, like Attorney911, to identify all responsible parties and maximize the chances of a victim’s recovery.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

To understand hazing in Texas, Delta County families should be aware of major national cases that have shaped legal precedents and public awareness. These “anchor stories” reveal recurring patterns of abuse, institutional failures, and the profound human cost of hazing. They also demonstrate the types of litigation and multi-million-dollar outcomes that can arise, illustrating that Texas hazing cases are not isolated incidents but part of a larger, tragic pattern.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The overwhelming majority of hazing-related fatalities involve forced or excessive alcohol consumption. These cases highlight the dangers of binge drinking in coercive environments and the tragic consequences of delayed medical attention.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): The death of 19-year-old pledge Timothy Piazza became a national flashpoint for anti-hazing advocacy. During a “bid acceptance” event, Piazza was forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol. He subsequently fell multiple times, sustaining traumatic brain injuries. Fraternity brothers delayed calling 911 for nearly 12 hours, during which time Piazza’s condition severely deteriorated. The incident was captured on the fraternity’s own security cameras, providing damning evidence of the events and the brothers’ inaction.

  • Legal Action: This led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, including involuntary manslaughter and aggravated assault. Civil lawsuits were filed, resulting in significant, confidential settlements.
  • Impact: Piazza’s death prompted the creation of Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law, one of the toughest in the nation, and led to the permanent banning of Beta Theta Pi from Penn State. It underscored how delayed medical care significantly escalates the legal and human cost of hazing.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Just months after Piazza’s death, 20-year-old pledge Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given bottles of liquor and encouraged to consume them rapidly.

  • Legal Action: Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, with several pleading guilty to misdemeanor hazing. The Coffey family filed a wrongful death lawsuit, which was settled under confidential terms.
  • Impact: Florida State University responded by temporarily suspending all Greek life and implementing comprehensive anti-hazing reforms. Coffey’s death, along with others, contributed to Florida’s strengthened anti-hazing laws.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): During a “Bible study” drinking game, 18-year-old pledge Max Gruver was forced to drink if he answered questions incorrectly. He died with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.495%—nearly six times the legal driving limit.

  • Legal Action: Several members were charged, and one was convicted of negligent homicide. The Gruver family settled civil lawsuits with various parties.
  • Impact: Louisiana enacted the Max Gruver Act, making felony hazing a crime punishable by up to five years in prison, demonstrating how legislative change often follows severe hazing tragedies.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): During a fraternity initiation ritual known as “Big/Little night,” 20-year-old pledge Stone Foltz was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol. He died three days later from alcohol poisoning.

  • Legal Action: Eight fraternity members were indicted on various charges including hazing and involuntary manslaughter. Multiple members were convicted of hazing-related crimes. The Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement, with $7 million paid by the Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and $2.9 million by Bowling Green State University.
  • Impact: Foltz’s death spurred major changes to Ohio’s anti-hazing laws, leading to “Collin’s Law: The Anti-Hazing Act,” which significantly increased penalties for hazing and established a statewide reporting system. This case is a stark example of substantial financial liability for both national organizations and universities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, hazing frequently involves physically violent or psychologically damaging rituals that carry immense risks.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): During a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, 19-year-old Michael Deng was blindfolded, forced to wear a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled in a ritual called “the glass ceiling.” He suffered a fatal traumatic brain injury, and fraternity members delayed calling 911 for over an hour.
  • Legal Action: This landmark case resulted in multiple criminal convictions, including individual members and, notably, the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity itself, which was found guilty of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter. The national fraternity was banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years and faced substantial fines.
  • Impact: Deng’s death showed that hazing at off-campus retreats, far from university oversight, can be just as deadly, and that national organizations can be held criminally accountable for their chapters’ actions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not confined to Greek life; it is unfortunately prevalent in athletic programs across the country, highlighting broader issues of team culture and institutional oversight.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): A widespread scandal erupted when former football players alleged systemic sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. This included forced sexual acts, racial slurs, and physical abuse.
  • Legal Action: Multiple players filed lawsuits against Northwestern University and its coaching staff. The head coach, Pat Fitzgerald, was fired, then filed his own wrongful-termination lawsuit, which was reportedly settled confidentially in August 2025.
  • Impact: This high-profile case underscored that hazing can flourish in major athletic programs, transcending Greek affiliations, and raised critical questions about institutional negligence and a “win-at-all-costs” culture that can overlook serious misconduct.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies share common threads: forced intoxication, physical abuse, psychological torment, the pressure for secrecy, and a dangerous delay in seeking medical help. While a culture of “tradition” or “fun” is often invoked, the outcomes are anything but. These cases have demonstrated:

• Foreseeability: Many national organizations and universities have been successfully sued because they had prior knowledge or should have known about dangerous hazing patterns.
• Institutional Accountability: Universities and national fraternities face significant legal and financial liability, often resulting in multi-million-dollar settlements or verdicts.
• Legislative Change: Public outrage and persistent advocacy often lead to tougher anti-hazing laws, like those seen in Pennsylvania, Louisiana, and Ohio.

For Delta County families, these national lessons are vital. The same legal principles, the same patterns of hazing, and the same potential for accountability apply to incidents occurring at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Southern Methodist University, Baylor, and other Texas campuses. The Manginello Law Firm leverages these precedents to build strong cases and seek justice for victims and their families in Texas.

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

For families in Delta County, these universities represent significant destinations for their children’s higher education. Understanding the specific context of hazing at each of these major Texas institutions is paramount. While The Manginello Law Firm is based in Houston, we serve clients from Delta County and across the state, bringing our expertise to bear on cases originating from any Texas campus.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston system is a cornerstone of higher education in Texas, attracting students from diverse backgrounds, including many from areas like Delta County who seek a university experience in a vibrant urban environment.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston, often simply referred to as UH, is a large public research university located in the heart of Houston. It boasts a diverse student body, an actively growing Greek life, and a wide array of student organizations, sports clubs, and cultural groups. Its proximity to Delta County is significant for families whose children may choose to attend a large city university within Texas.

5.1.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

UH maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, prohibiting any activity that causes mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule for the purpose of initiation or affiliation with any recognized student organization. This policy explicitly extends to both on-campus and off-campus activities. Reporting channels are available through the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). UH also makes public a list of sanctioned organizations, though the details of individual hazing incidents are often less transparent than at some other Texas institutions.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UH has faced its share of hazing controversies. One notable case involved Pi Kappa Alpha (Pika) in 2016, where pledges allegedly suffered severe sleep and food deprivation during a multi-day event. One student reportedly sustained a lacerated spleen, leading to misdemeanor hazing charges and university suspension for the chapter. Attorney911 is currently representing Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi fraternity for severe hazing allegations that occurred in late 2025. Bermudez suffered acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis following alleged forced physical exertion, degrading rituals, and forced consumption of various items. This lawsuit, seeking over $10 million, names UH, its Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, and 13 individuals.

These incidents highlight UH’s commitment to taking action against chapters found in violation, yet also reveal the persistent challenge of enforcing policies within a large, active Greek system.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

Delta County families whose children attend UH should understand that the legal process for hazing cases in Houston often involves local law enforcement, such as the Houston Police Department (HPD), working alongside UHPD for investigations. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in courts within Harris County (where Houston is located). Potential defendants could include the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially the university itself, depending on the specifics of the case and its negligence in preventing or responding to hazing. The Manginello Law Firm, being a Houston-based practice, has direct experience navigating these local jurisdictions and working with families in Delta County whose students are enrolled at UH.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

• Understand UH’s policies: Familiarize yourself with the University of Houston’s explicit anti-hazing rules and official reporting methods through the Dean of Students.
• Document everything: If you suspect hazing, meticulously collect all evidence—screenshots of messages, photos/videos, details of times and locations.
• Seek legal counsel immediately: Contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases, especially private and public university litigation. As seen with the recent Bermudez case, Attorney911 is actively involved in high-stakes hazing litigation at UH.
• Prioritize safety: If there’s any immediate danger, call 911. UH also provides a confidential online reporting form.
• Review public records: Check any publicly available hazing violation reports from UH to see if the organization in question has a history of misconduct.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University holds a unique place in the hearts of many Texans, including those in Delta County, known for its deep traditions and the esteemed Corps of Cadets. Its campus in College Station is a popular destination for students seeking a blend of academic rigor and strong community.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M is renowned for its traditions, particularly centered around the Corps of Cadets—a highly disciplined military training program. Beyond the Corps, A&M also hosts a large and active Greek life, numerous spirit organizations, and athletic teams, all steeped in tradition. This traditional atmosphere, while fostering strong bonds, sometimes creates environments where hazing can be mistakenly perceived as “necessary” for building spirit or loyalty.

5.2.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

Texas A&M has a zero-tolerance hazing policy that mirrors state law. Its policy defines hazing broadly to include any act that can cause physical or mental harm, coercion, or humiliation, whether on or off campus, and regardless of a student’s willingness to participate. Reports can be made through the Office of Student Conduct, the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life, the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD), or via an anonymous reporting system. The university generally provides a record of hazing violations and sanctions, though the level of detail can vary.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M’s history includes notable hazing incidents across various organizations:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) in 2021: Two pledges alleged severe chemical burns after being coerced into a ritual where substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit were poured on them. This incident led to significant physical injuries requiring skin graft surgeries. The fraternity chapter was suspended for two years by the university.
• Corps of Cadets in 2023: This case involved a cadet alleging degrading physical and psychological hazing, including simulated sexual acts and being bound in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The cadet sought over $1 million in damages, leading to a legal battle that brought the Corps’ hazing culture under scrutiny.
• Bruce Dean Goodrich (Corps of Cadets, 1984): Goodrich, a second-year Corps member, died from heatstroke during strenuous, mandatory exercise at 2:30 AM. Three cadets pleaded guilty to hazing, and one was expelled for destroying evidence. This tragic event highlighted the dangers in tradition-heavy environments.
• Phi Gamma Delta (2018): Just recently, Joseph Little, 18, collapsed and died during pledging activities that the university later defined as hazing. This occurred at the same chapter where Trey Walker similarly faced a hazing-related death in 1997, showing a concerning pattern.

These incidents, extending from Greek life to the revered Corps of Cadets, demonstrate that hazing can affect diverse groups at A&M.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Delta County students attending A&M, any hazing incident would first involve investigations by TAMUPD or the College Station Police Department (CSPD), depending on the location of the incident within or outside campus. Civil lawsuits would fall under the jurisdiction of Brazos County courts. Due to A&M’s status as a public university, sovereign immunity issues may arise, requiring experienced legal strategy to navigate potential exceptions, particularly in cases involving gross negligence or systemic failures.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

• Question traditions: Be vigilant about activities framed as “tradition”—especially within the Corps or spirit groups—that could cross into hazing.
• Report promptly: Utilize Texas A&M’s Student Conduct office or the anonymous reporting systems available.
• Document thoroughly: Given the university’s large student population and many organizations, detailed documentation is key for any hazing allegations.
• Consult legal professionals: Especially if hazing occurs in a military-style organization or results in serious injury, consulting with an attorney experienced in university and institutional liability is crucial.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is the flagship institution of the UT System, drawing top students from across Texas, including Delta County, and the nation. Its large, dynamic campus and vibrant city create a unique setting for student life.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is one of the largest and most prestigious public universities in Texas, with an enormous and influential Greek system, a range of spirit organizations (like the Texas Cowboys and Texas Wranglers), and nationally competitive athletic teams. The “Longhorn” tradition is fiercely protected, but sometimes this strong sense of tradition can create blind spots when it comes to hazing.

5.3.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

UT Austin maintains a robust anti-hazing policy consistent with state law, explicitly prohibiting any activity that causes mental or physical harm, regardless of consent. UT is notable for its commitment to transparency regarding hazing. The university proactively publishes a Hazing Violations webpage that lists organizations found responsible for hazing, the nature of the misconduct, and the sanctions imposed. This public log serves as a critical resource for families tracking an organization’s history. Reporting can be done via multiple channels including the Dean of Students office, the UT Austin Police Department (UTPD), or various online complaint forms.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public hazing violations log reveals a consistent pattern of incidents:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pika) in 2023: The chapter was found responsible for hazing after new members were directed to consume milk and engage in strenuous calisthenics. This led to probation and mandatory hazing-prevention education.
• Texas Cowboys (2018): This spirit organization was suspended following allegations of severe hazing, including forced alcohol consumption and dangerous physical acts, which tragically saw one “new man” die in an accident that his parents allege was hazing-related. This incident closely mirrored an earlier 1995 Texas Cowboys hazing death where Gabriel Higgins drowned after participating in forced drinking games.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) in 2006: A hazing-related fall resulted in the death of pledge Tyler Cross after an alcohol-laden event staged by the fraternity. This incident underscores a national pattern of safety issues for SAE.
• Lambda Phi Epsilon (2005): Pledge Phanta “Jack” Phoummarath died of acute alcohol intoxication during a fraternity event where pledges were pressured to drink and eat spicy foods. His death led to convictions for members involved in supplying alcohol.
• Delta Kappa Epsilon (1928): The earliest documented hazing death in Texas history occurred at UT’s DKE chapter when pledge Nolte McElroy died from an electric shock sustained during an initiation ritual that used charged mattresses.

The recurring nature of violations, despite public transparency, demonstrates the deep-seated nature of hazing.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

Delta County families whose students experience hazing at UT Austin would find investigations typically handled by UTPD and/or the Austin Police Department. Lawsuits would be filed in Travis County, where Austin is located. Similar to A&M, UT Austin is a public university, so litigation would involve navigating sovereign immunity laws, but documented patterns of past hazing and the university’s knowledge of these patterns can negate such defenses.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

• Check the Hazing Violations page: This is a direct source of information. Review the history of any organization your student is considering.
• Report all incidents: Utilize UT’s established reporting channels.
• Maintain meticulous records: Given the university’s data, providing clear, detailed evidence is critical.
• Seek legal guidance: An attorney can leverage UT’s own transparency to build a stronger case, especially if there’s a history of violations that the university allegedly failed to adequately address or prevent.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University is a private institution with a celebrated academic reputation and a deeply ingrained Greek life culture, drawing students from Texas and beyond, including Delta County.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU, located in Dallas, is a private university known for its rigorous academics and strong ties to alumni and community. Greek life plays a particularly prominent role in student social life, with a large percentage of students participating in fraternities and sororities within Interfraternity Council, College Panhellenic Council, and National Pan-Hellenic Council. This vibrant Greek culture can sometimes create intense social dynamics within new member processes.

5.4.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

SMU maintains clear anti-hazing policies that align with Texas law, forbidding any activity that humiliates, abuses, or endangers students as a condition of membership. As a private institution, SMU’s internal disciplinary processes are often less publicly transparent than those of state universities. However, SMU does provide various reporting mechanisms, including through the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, the SMU Police Department (SMU PD), and anonymous reporting options. The university is obligated to investigate all hazing complaints.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

SMU has also faced significant hazing incidents:

• Kappa Alpha Order in 2017: The fraternity chapter was suspended for four years after new members were reportedly subjected to egregious hazing, including paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation. This incident resulted in a lengthy suspension and strict conditions for potential future return to campus.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) in 2017: This chapter also faced a multi-year suspension due to hazing violations related to forced physical activity, humiliation, and alcohol misuse. The repeated incidents within the same year led to enhanced university oversight of Greek life at SMU.

These examples underscore that hazing is a persistent challenge even at private institutions with strong disciplinary frameworks.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Delta County students allegedly hazed at SMU, investigations would involve SMU PD and/or the Dallas Police Department. Civil lawsuits would fall under the jurisdiction of Dallas County courts. As a private university, SMU typically does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially easier to sue the institution directly for negligence compared to public universities. Accessing internal university records about prior hazing incidents might require stronger legal tools like subpoenas, as private institutions are not subject to public records laws.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

• Be aware of Greek culture: Understand that SMU’s prominent Greek life means a higher potential for hazing, and to carefully scrutinize organizations.
• Utilize reporting channels: Use SMU’s designated offices for reporting hazing, including any anonymous options.
• Seek prompt legal advice: Due to the private nature of SMU’s internal reporting, obtaining legal counsel early can be crucial for uncovering information and initiating a civil claim against individuals, the chapter, the national organization, and the university.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, situated in Waco, Texas, is another premier institution where many Delta County families consider sending their children. Known for its Christian mission, Baylor has a unique cultural and regulatory environment.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor is a private Baptist university, the oldest continuously operating university in Texas. Its distinct religious identity influences campus culture, including student conduct policies. While Baylor has a structured student life, including active Greek organizations and competitive athletic programs, it also places a strong emphasis on community and behavioral standards reflecting its mission.

5.5.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting

Baylor’s anti-hazing policy is stringent, explicitly prohibiting any activity that humiliates, physically or mentally abuses, or endangers new or current members of any student organization, regardless of consent. The university strictly enforces these rules, emphasizing that hazing is a violation of both institutional policy and Texas law. Reporting can be made through the Dean of Students office, Baylor University Police Department (BUPD), or anonymous online reporting systems. Baylor, like other private institutions, typically does not publicly display detailed hazing disciplinary records online as extensively as public universities like UT Austin.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor has faced scrutiny for varying forms of student misconduct, including hazing:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): A significant incident involved the baseball team, where 14 players were suspended following a hazing investigation. The suspensions, staggered throughout the early season, highlighted that even high-profile athletic teams are not immune to hazing culture.
• In the 1967 incident, John E. Clifton died after choking on a foul concoction during a “pledging event.” Though initially deemed not hazing, broader concerns about student safety prompted a reevaluation of practices as a Baylor University review of the event indicated there had been a violation of acceptable conduct for student groups.
• Baylor’s history also includes broader systemic issues of institutional oversight, particularly concerning its handling of sexual assault cases in the mid-2010s. While not directly hazing, these past failures of institutional control underscore the importance of holding universities accountable for student safety, whether related to hazing or other forms of misconduct.

These instances reveal that hazing can occur across various student groups at Baylor, and that institutional responses are critical.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Delta County students involved in hazing at Baylor, investigations would be handled by BUPD and/or the Waco Police Department. Civil cases would fall under the jurisdiction of McLennan County courts. As a private university, Baylor does not have sovereign immunity, which can simplify some aspects of civil litigation as compared to public institutions. However, internal records, being private, would likely require legal motions to compel disclosure during the discovery phase of a lawsuit.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

• Prioritize safety and integrity: Given Baylor’s values-based approach, students and parents should actively question any “tradition” that conflicts with principles of respect and safety.
• Utilize official channels: Report all hazing concerns directly to the Dean of Students or BUPD.
• Engage legal experts: Should hazing occur, obtaining legal counsel is vital to effectively navigate the university’s private investigative processes and build a comprehensive civil case against all responsible parties. The historical context of Baylor managing institutional oversight issues can also be relevant to such cases.

6. Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

For families in Delta County, understanding the connection between local chapters at Texas universities and their national organizations is crucial. Hazing is often a deeply ingrained cultural issue that transcends individual campuses, revealing patterns of behavior that can recur nationwide within specific Greek letter organizations.

Why National Histories Matter

Most fraternities and sororities at institutions like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are part of larger national organizations. These national headquarters (HQs) are responsible for setting policies, providing training, and overseeing their local chapters. Crucially, many of these national HQs have extensive anti-hazing policies and risk management guidelines born from decades of documented hazing incidents, including severe injuries and fatalities, across chapters in other states.

When a Texas chapter repeats a dangerous “tradition” that has led to harm or death in another state, this history becomes incredibly important in legal arguments. It can demonstrate:

• Foreseeability: The national organization could be argued to have had prior knowledge or “foreseeability” of such dangers, yet failed to prevent them effectively.
• Negligent Supervision: Despite having policies, did the national HQ adequately supervise, train, and enforce its anti-hazing rules at the local chapter?
• Pattern of Conduct: A history of similar incidents across multiple chapters highlights a systemic issue rather than an isolated “rogue” act, bolstering claims against the national entity.

Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

Here, we synthesize the histories of some prominent Greek organizations with documented national hazing issues that also have chapters at major Texas universities. It is important to remember that:

• Presence at Texas Campuses: Many of these organizations are present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, and numerous other campuses where Delta County students matriculate.

• General Information: The incidents described below are national historical patterns; we are NOT alleging that any specific Texas chapter not explicitly mentioned has engaged in hazing, but rather illustrating the national organization’s documented history.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity has a documented history of severe alcohol hazing incidents nationally.

  • Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University, 2021): Stone Foltz died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume a bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little night.” This case resulted in criminal convictions and a significant $10 million settlement for the family, with $7 million coming from the national fraternity.
  • David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois University, 2012): Bogenberger died from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event. His family later received a $14 million settlement.
  • Texas Chapters: The Pi Kappa Alpha chapter at UT Austin was disciplined in 2023 for similar alcohol-related hazing, while a Texas Tech chapter also faced hazing allegations in 2001.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Often referred to as “America’s deadliest fraternity” by some media outlets due to a high number of hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide until it outlawed pledging, SAE continues to face accusations.

  • Carson Starkey (Cal Poly, 2008): Died from alcohol poisoning during a hazing ritual involving forced consumption. His family subsequently settled for a substantial, confidential amount. This incident was one of many that led the national fraternity to ban its traditional pledge process in 2014.
  • Texas A&M University (2021): A&M’s SAE chapter was suspended after pledges reportedly suffered severe chemical burns from an initiation involving industrial-strength cleaner, eggs, and spit.
  • University of Texas at Austin (2006): An SAE pledge died in a fall after an alcohol-laden event staged by the fraternity, which was deemed hazing-related.
  • University of California, Irvine (2019): Noah Domingo died after an alcohol-fueled “Big Brother Night” event.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): This fraternity has also been implicated in multiple hazing deaths.

  • Max Gruver (Louisiana State University, 2017): As detailed earlier, Gruver died from alcohol poisoning during a forced drinking game. This directly led to Louisiana’s felony Max Gruver Act.
  • Texas Chapters: A Baylor University chapter was disciplined in 1967 for an incident where a member died after consuming a foul concoction.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): This fraternity has faced serious hazing accusations and tragic outcomes.

  • Andrew Coffey (Florida State University, 2017): Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night,” directly leading to multiple criminal charges for members.
  • University of Houston (2025): As noted, Attorney911 is currently litigating a $10 million lawsuit against UH and its Pi Kappa Phi chapter for severe hazing allegations that resulted in acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis for Leonel Bermudez.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): This fraternity has also faced recent hazing allegations.

  • Texas Christian University (2018): A Kappa Sigma member reportedly committed suicide after being charged with hazing offenses and DUI following an incident where a student was hospitalized for acute alcohol intoxication.
  • Chad Meredith (University of Miami, 2001): Meredith drowned in a lake after being pressured into a coerced swim during a fraternity event. A jury later awarded his family a $12.6 million verdict for hazing-related negligence. Florida later passed a law named in his honor criminalizing hazing.
  • Texas A&M University (2023): Recent allegations include hazing resulting in severe injuries like rhabdomyolysis from extreme physical exertion within the chapter.

• Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ): This historically Black Greek letter fraternity has faced scrutiny for physical hazing.

  • Joseph Snell (Bowie State University, 1997): Snell suffered extensive physical abuse and beatings over a four-week period, including being burnt by a space heater. He secured a $375,000 verdict against the fraternity.
  • University of Southern Mississippi (2023): A lawsuit was filed alleging severe physical beatings with wooden paddles during “Hell Night,” leading to emergency surgery and months of rehabilitation for the alleged victim.
  • Tennessee State University (1983, 2001): This chapter has been associated with two separate hazing deaths, one due to alcohol overdose and another following physical exertion.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

These national patterns serve as critical evidence in hazing litigation in Texas. An experienced legal team can:

• Establish Foreseeability: Argue that a national organization, repeatedly facing similar incidents across its chapters, had reason to foresee the potential for hazing at its Texas chapters and a duty to prevent it.
• Challenge “Isolated Incident” Claims: Counter defense arguments that a hazing incident was a one-off “rogue” act by revealing a broader historical pattern.
• Support Claims for Punitive Damages: Demonstrate that the national organization or university showed a callous disregard for student safety despite repeated warnings or prior incidents, justifying punitive damages to deter future misconduct.
• Uncover “Paper Policies”: Show that while national organizations often have extensive anti-hazing policies, their enforcement at the local chapter level may be lax or ineffective, making them merely “paper policies” without real teeth.

By understanding these national histories, Attorney911 empowers Delta County families to pursue comprehensive accountability from all responsible parties, from individual students to powerful national organizations and the universities that host them.

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Building a compelling hazing case requires meticulous investigation, a comprehensive understanding of complex legal strategies, and the ability to confront powerful defendants. For families in Delta County, this process starts by recognizing what types of evidence are crucial and what legal remedies might be available.

7.1 Evidence: The Foundation of Your Case

In hazing litigation, evidence proves what happened, who was involved, and who neglected their duty. As a Delta County family dealing with a hazing incident, understanding how to preserve and gather this evidence is paramount, as it can disappear quickly. Attorney911’s video on using your cellphone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos.

• Digital Communications: These are often the most potent forms of evidence in modern hazing cases.

  • Group Messaging Apps: Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, and even fraternity-specific apps are where plans are made, instructions are given, and reactions are shared. Screenshots of entire conversations, with visible names and timestamps, are crucial. If messages are disappearing, screen recordings or immediate screenshots are vital.
  • Social Media: Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter can host posts, stories, and comments that document hazing in progress, injuries, or the aftermath. Location tags, hashtags, and captions can corroborate events.
  • Text Messages/Direct Messages: Private conversations between members or with victims can reveal coercion, plans, and admissions.
  • Emails: Official chapter emails, communications with national organizations, or interactions with university faculty can provide critical context and demonstrate knowledge or negligence.

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence can be devastating to a defense.

  • Hazing in Progress: If safely obtained, videos or photos of hazing activities are irrefutable.
  • Injuries: Detailed photos of any physical injuries, taken from multiple angles and updated over several days to show progression, are essential for documenting physical harm.
  • Locations & Objects: Pictures of the premises where hazing occurred, or any objects used (e.g., paddles, alcohol bottles, blindfolds), help reconstruct the event.

• Internal Organization Documents: These records often prove intent or a pattern of misconduct.

  • Pledge Manuals/Member Handbooks: Sometimes these documents, whether official or unofficial, contain historical “traditions” or instructions that facilitate hazing.
  • Meeting Minutes/Emails: Records of meetings where hazing was discussed or approved, or communications showing warnings being ignored.
  • National Policies: The national organization’s anti-hazing policies themselves can be used to show what they knew should have been prevented.

• University Records: These reveal the institution’s awareness and actions (or inactions).

  • Prior Conduct Files: Records of previous hazing violations, probation, or suspensions against the same organization or individuals. These are invaluable for proving a pattern and the university’s knowledge.
  • Campus Police/Incident Reports: Official documentation of alleged hazing, assaults, or alcohol violations.
  • Clery Act Reports: Annual crime statistics that reflect a pattern of misconduct on campus.
  • Internal Communications: Emails and memos among university administrators can show awareness of hazing problems and decisions made (or not made) in response.

• Medical and Psychological Records: Documentation of harm is central to any personal injury claim.

  • Emergency Room/Hospital Records: Detailed accounts of all injuries, treatments, and initial reports (e.g., “patient states he was forced to drink”).
  • Toxicology Reports: Crucial for alcohol or drug-related hazing fatalities.
  • Psychological Evaluations: Records from therapists, psychiatrists, or counselors documenting PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other mental health impacts resulting from hazing.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts corroborate other evidence.

  • Fellow Pledges/Members: Often powerful, though these individuals may be reluctant to speak initially due to fear of retaliation.
  • Roommates/Friends/Bystanders: Anyone who observed changes in behavior, witnessed the hazing, or saw the aftermath.
  • Emergency Responders: Paramedics, police officers, or hospital staff who arrived at the scene.

7.2 Damages: What Can Be Recovered

A hazing lawsuit aims to compensate victims and their families for the full scope of their losses. These “damages” can be substantial, reflecting the severe consequences of these acts. Learn about Texas statute of limitations in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

• Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses): These are tangible, out-of-pocket expenses.

  • Medical Expenses: Covering past and future costs for emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, therapy (physical, occupational, mental health), and medications. In cases of catastrophic injury (e.g., brain damage from severe alcohol poisoning), a lifetime of specialized care may be required.
  • Lost Income & Earning Capacity: Compensation for any wages lost due to injury or recovery, as well as the long-term impact on a victim’s ability to earn a living if they suffer permanent disabilities or their education is derailed. This can include lost scholarships and tuition fees.
  • Property Damage: Costs to replace or repair personal items damaged during the hazing.

• Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Losses): These cover the intangible, yet profound, suffering.

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: For the immediate and ongoing pain from injuries.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: Covering the severe mental anguish, trauma, humiliation, shame, anxiety, depression, and PTSD that often result from hazing.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the reduced quality of life, inability to participate in activities, and disruption to personal relationships and the college experience.

• Wrongful Death Damages (For Families): In the most tragic cases, when hazing results in death, the surviving family (parents, children, spouse) can seek compensation for:

  • Funeral and Burial Expenses.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Society: For the profound emotional void left by the deceased.
  • Loss of Financial Support: If the deceased would have contributed to the family’s income.
  • Grief and Mental Anguish: The severe emotional suffering experienced by the family.

• Punitive Damages: These are not for compensation but for punishment and deterrence. If defendants—individuals, organizations, or universities—acted with gross negligence, malice, or a conscious disregard for safety, Texas courts may award punitive damages. These are designed to be large enough to deter similar future conduct.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

A key strategic element in hazing litigation is identifying all potential defendants and understanding their insurance coverage. Powerful institutions like national fraternities and universities typically carry extensive liability insurance policies designed to protect them from such lawsuits.

However, these insurance companies are notorious for trying to avoid payouts. They often argue:

• “Intentional Act Exclusion”: That hazing, being an intentional act, is not covered by the policy.
• “Prior Knowledge”: That the chapter or university knew about hazing and therefore acted negligently, which might not be covered under certain circumstances.
• Policy Exclusions: Many have specific anti-hazing clauses or other exclusions.

An experienced hazing attorney understands how to navigate these complex insurance disputes. Even if the hazing incident itself was intentional, the core of a successful lawsuit often pivots to the negligent supervision or failure to prevent by the national organization or university. Such negligence claims can trigger insurance coverage, as the failure to act responsibly is often covered. Attorney911’s Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), brings invaluable insight into the tactics insurance companies employ, ensuring no stone is left unturned in securing maximum compensation for our clients. Ralph Manginello, with his extensive experience in complex litigation against large entities like in the BP Texas City explosion, is adept at challenging well-funded defense teams.

For Delta County families, this means selecting lawyers who are not only skilled trial attorneys but also adept at understanding and leveraging insurance law to ensure full accountability and recovery.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

For Delta County families and students navigating the aftermath of a hazing incident, immediate, actionable information is vital. This section provides practical guidance for parents, students, and witnesses, along with answers to common questions.

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Parents are often the first to notice subtle changes in their children. Trust your instincts.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Look out for both physical and behavioral changes:

  • Physical: Unexplained injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, particularly if explanations are vague or inconsistent), extreme fatigue, significant changes in appetite or appearance, or signs of illness.
  • Behavioral: Sudden secrecy, withdrawal from family or non-organizational friends, dramatic mood swings (anxiety, depression, irritability), becoming defensive when asked about their group, or repeatedly saying “I can’t talk about it” regarding their activities.
  • Academic: A sudden drop in grades, missed classes, or unusual difficulty concentrating due to lack of sleep or stress.

• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation with empathy, not accusation.

  • Start with open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with [organization]?” or “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
  • Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priority, far above any group affiliation or “tradition.” Assure them that you support them regardless of what they choose.

• If Your Child is Hurt:

  • Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Prioritize their health. Ensure they receive professional medical care, and make sure to communicate that you suspect hazing as the cause of injury.
  • Document Everything: Take photos of injuries, keep a detailed log of dates, times, and specific incidents. Note who was involved and any statements made. Save all text messages, group chats, images, and videos.

• Dealing with the University:

  • Document every interaction with university officials. Ask direct questions about the university’s knowledge of previous incidents, and request information about their resolution process. Be mindful that the university’s primary goal is often self-protection; securing independent legal counsel can help balance this dynamic.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer:

  • If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm.
  • If you feel the university or the organization is being dismissive, non-transparent, or attempting to minimize the incident.
  • An initial consultation can clarify your rights and options without obligation.

8.2 For Students / Pledges: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

If you are a student or pledge in Delta County, attending a Texas university, and question whether what you’re experiencing is hazing, trust your gut.

• Is This Hazing or Just “Tradition”?: Ask yourself:

  • Am I being forced or coerced into activities I find unsafe, humiliating, or personally violating?
  • Am I being told to keep secrets from family, friends, or university staff?
  • Do I feel that refusing an activity would lead to negative social consequences or removal from the organization?
  • Would current members participate in these exact activities if in my shoes, or are they exclusively for new members?
    If the answer to any of these is yes, it’s likely hazing, regardless of how it’s labeled.

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: The pressure to belong, the desire for acceptance, and the fear of exclusion can make “consenting” to hazing feel unavoidable. However, under Texas law, explicit consent does not excuse hazing if it endangers physical or mental health. Your well-being and legal rights supersede any coerced “agreement.”

• Exiting and Reporting Safely:

  • You have the right to leave: You are not bound by any “pledge” to remain in a hazing situation. Remove yourself from immediate danger if necessary.
  • Report: Utilize anonymous campus hotlines, university conduct offices, or if a crime has occurred, contact UTPD, UHPD, or local police. The National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE) offers an anonymous reporting option.

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Texas law (and most university policies, like those at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor) often offers amnesty or immunity for individuals who report hazing in good faith or seek emergency medical attention. Your safety is more important than fear of reprisal.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses: Your Role in Accountability

If you were once part of a hazing incident, either as a participant, a witness, or a former member who left the organization, your knowledge can be crucial for preventing future harm.

• Your Testimony Matters: Your firsthand account or evidence can shed light on coercive tactics, patterns of abuse, and institutional failures. Your participation, even anonymously at first, can lead to real accountability.
• Legal Protection: Texas law offers immunity for good-faith reporting. If you are concerned about your own potential liability, contacting a lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, including strategies for cooperation that protect your interests.
• Prevent Future Harm: Your decision to come forward can save another student from injury or death, turning a negative experience into an opportunity for positive change.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Delta County families, acting wisely and quickly after a hazing incident is paramount. One wrong step can severely undermine a potential legal claim. Attorney911’s video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) provides valuable insights into what to avoid.

• Letting Crucial Evidence Disappear: Digital evidence, like group chat messages, is often deleted or disappears within 24 hours (e.g., Snapchat stories). Failure to immediately screenshot and preserve everything can destroy your ability to prove your case.
• Confronting the Organization Directly: While your anger is justified, directly confronting the fraternity, sorority, or team can result in them destroying evidence, coaching witnesses, or creating false narratives. Always consult an attorney first.
• Signing University or Insurance Documents Without Legal Review: Universities and insurance companies may offer quick settlements or ask you to sign waivers or releases. These documents are designed to protect them, not you, and may strip you of your legal rights to further action.
• Posting Details on Social Media: Publicly sharing information about the incident on social media can be used against you, compromise your credibility, or inadvertently reveal sensitive details that should remain private for legal strategy.
• Delaying Legal Consultation: The statute of limitations (the legal deadline to file a lawsuit) for hazing cases in Texas is generally two years from the date of injury or death. However, evidence vanishes much faster than that. Waiting can mean losing critical evidence or witnesses.
• Minimizing the Incident’s Severity: Do not downplay what happened or your child’s injuries to avoid “making a fuss.” Clear, honest documentation from the start is needed.
• Ignoring Medical or Psychological Follow-Up: Consistent medical and psychological treatment not only helps your child heal but also creates a vital record of their physical and emotional damages, which is essential for a legal claim.

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities such as the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and the University of Texas at Austin often have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, ministerial acts, and Title IX violations, especially when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities like Southern Methodist University and Baylor University have fewer immunity protections. Every case hinges on its specific facts; contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. While basic hazing is typically classified as a Class B misdemeanor, it can escalate to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who are officers or present may also face misdemeanor charges for failing to report hazing or for retaliation.

• “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 and juries recognize that individuals under immense peer pressure, coercion, and the desire to belong often do not truly “consent” in a legally meaningful way.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, there is a two-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, certain factors—like fraudulent concealment by the defendants or if the victim was a minor—can extend this period (known as “tolling”). Given that evidence disappears quickly, time is of the essence. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately for a precise evaluation of your case’s timeline. Learn about Texas statute of limitations in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of the hazing does not necessarily eliminate liability for the organization or university. National organizations, local chapters, and sometimes universities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability of the events. Many significant hazing cases, including deaths at fraternity retreats and “unofficial” off-campus houses, have resulted in successful lawsuits.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Client privacy is a priority. Most hazing cases settle out of court, and a common condition of settlement is confidentiality, which helps protect the victim’s identity. While high-profile cases may attract media attention, strategies can be implemented to maintain as much privacy as possible while still pursuing justice.

9. About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family faces a hazing case in Texas, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need tenacious, experienced attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, we are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™. We bring a unique blend of legal prowess, investigative depth, and strategic insight to hazing litigation that few other firms in Texas can match.

Our approach to hazing cases is rooted in several key advantages:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), previously worked as a defense attorney for national insurance companies. She understands precisely how fraternity and university insurers attempt to minimize, delay, or deny hazing claims. Her firsthand knowledge of their strategies, coverage exclusions, and negotiation tactics is invaluable in securing maximum compensation for our clients. We know their playbook because we used to run it.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph Manginello (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/), our managing partner, has extensive experience in complex litigation, including being one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation. This background means we are not intimidated by powerful defendants—be they national fraternities, large universities, or their well-resourced defense teams. We have a proven track record of taking on formidable opponents and achieving favorable outcomes.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: Hazing often leads to severe injuries or wrongful death. Our firm has a strong history of recovering significant results for families in catastrophic personal injury and wrongful death cases (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/). We work with leading experts, including economists and life care planners, to accurately value the full impact of a hazing injury or death, ensuring that settlements and verdicts reflect the true cost of lifelong care and lost potential.
• Dual Criminal and Civil Hazing Expertise: Hazing is a crime in Texas. Our experience, including Ralph Manginello’s active membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), allows us to understand the interplay between criminal charges and civil litigation. We can advise clients on how criminal proceedings might affect their civil claim and guide witnesses or former members who may face their own criminal exposure.
• Relentless Investigative Depth: We don’t just wait for evidence; we uncover it. Our team works with digital forensics experts to recover deleted group chats and social media content, subpoenas national fraternity records to expose patterns of prior incidents, and utilizes public records requests and discovery motions to reveal university files that show negligence. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

From our Houston offices, we proudly serve families throughout Texas, including Delta County and all regions affected by hazing at institutions like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor. We understand that hazing at Texas universities can ripple through communities, impacting families even far from campus.

We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold all responsible parties accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We balance the pursuit of justice with a compassionate understanding of your family’s trauma and need for privacy.

Call to Action for Delta County Families

If your child has been a victim of hazing at any Texas campus, you don’t have to face this alone. Whether you’re in Delta County or anywhere across the Lone Star State, The Manginello Law Firm is here to help.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC (Attorney911) for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will:

• Listen to your story with empathy and without judgment.
• Review any evidence you possess (photos, texts, medical records).
• Explain your legal options, whether that involves a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, or both.
• Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the legal process.
• Answer your questions about costs; we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Watch our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
• You will feel no pressure to hire us on the spot; our priority is to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Everything you share with us is held in strict confidence.

For families in Delta County and across Texas seeking justice and accountability in hazing cases, put our experience on your side.

• Call Our Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct Line: (713) 528-9070
• Cell Phone: (713) 443-4781 (for immediate needs)
• Visit Our Website: https://attorney911.com
• Email Us: ralph@atty911.com

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

If hazing has impacted your family, do not hesitate. Call us today.

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

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