DeWitt County Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $24M+ Pi Kappa Alpha Settlements | Attorney911 — The Firm That Closed Beta Nu | Federal Court | Former Insurance Defense | 1-888-ATTY-911

An early morning call to a DeWitt County home, followed by silence on the other end. A student-athlete who came home from college with unexplained bruises or a sudden, profound change in personality. A concerned parent notices their child deleting messages from their phone and becoming secretive about campus activities. These scenarios, though hypothetical, are a stark reality for families across Texas. When the dream of a college education turns into a nightmare of hazing, understanding your rights and options becomes paramount.

This comprehensive guide is designed for families in DeWitt County and across Texas who need to understand the insidious nature of modern hazing. We delve into what hazing truly looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes to expose the full spectrum of dangerous and degrading practices. We’ll explore the intricate legal landscape in Texas, covering both criminal and civil statutes, and illuminate how federal laws play a role. Critically, we connect major national hazing cases to what is happening at prominent Texas universities like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, demonstrating how historical patterns of abuse fuel current liability and risk. This guide also offers practical advice for parents, students, and witnesses, empowering readers with actionable steps.

Hazing is more than just a college prank; it’s a systemic issue with devastating consequences. Our goal is to position Attorney911 as a data-driven authority on hazing litigation, providing genuine value and actionable knowledge to families who have been impacted. We serve families across the Lone Star State, including those in DeWitt County, ensuring that no family has to face this crisis alone.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

• In the first 48 hours:

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

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

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

Hazing in the modern collegiate landscape is far more complex and insidious than the “pranks” of decades past. For DeWitt County families unfamiliar with modern Greek life or student organizations, understanding its true nature is crucial. It’s not just about a silly challenge; it’s a deeply rooted issue that endangers mental and physical well-being. The culture of secrecy, coupled with the desire for belonging, often creates an environment where students feel compelled to endure abuse.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

At its core, hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status within a group. This behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. This definition is critical because it highlights that “I agreed to it” does not automatically make an activity safe or legal, especially when peer pressure and power imbalances are present. True consent requires the ability to say “no” without fear of reprisal, exclusion, or negative social consequences. Hazing strips away this true consent, making participation feel mandatory, regardless of the student’s personal feelings or safety.

Main Categories of Hazing

Modern hazing manifests in various forms, often layered and escalating, to cement hierarchies and control new members.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most dangerous and prevalent forms. It includes:

  • Forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol.
  • “Lineups,” chugging challenges, or games specifically designed to induce rapid and severe intoxication.
  • Pressuring individuals to mix or consume unknown substances, sometimes with illegal drugs.
  • Events like “Big/Little reveal” nights, where new members are expected to consume entire bottles of hard liquor, often result in alcohol poisoning.
  • The notorious “Bible study” drinking game, where incorrect answers to questions lead to forced drinking, as seen in the Maxwell Gruver case at LSU.

• Physical Hazing: This category involves acts that directly inflict bodily harm or extreme physical discomfort, often under the guise of “building toughness” or “bonding.”

  • Paddling and Beatings: Though widely condemned, direct physical assault, including hitting with paddles or hands, continues in some underground hazing rituals.
  • Extreme Calisthenics or “Smokings”: Forced workouts, often to the point of exhaustion, beyond safe limits. These are euphemistically called “conditioning” but are punitive.
  • Sleep and Food Deprivation: New members are kept awake for extended periods with mandatory activities or denied adequate nutrition, leading to severe fatigue and health risks.
  • Exposure to Extreme Environments: Forcing individuals to endure harsh weather conditions (cold, heat) or dangerous physical environments, like being left barefoot in rugged terrain.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts Strip individuals of their dignity and autonomy, often leaving lasting psychological scars.

  • Forced Nudity or Simulated Sexual Acts: New members may be compelled to appear naked or partially naked, or participate in simulated sexual activities. These can include degrading positions like the “elephant walk” or “roasted pig.”
  • Degrading Costumes or Public Humiliation: Forcing individuals to wear embarrassing outfits or perform humiliating acts in public.
  • Racist, Sexist, or Homophobic Acts: Targeting individuals based on their identity with slurs, stereotypes, or forcing them into degrading role-plays. This can include forcing minority pledges to perform racially offensive acts.

• Psychological Hazing: Often less visible but equally damaging, psychological hazing manipulates and controls new members’ minds.

  • Verbal abuse, yelling, threats, and emotional manipulation.
  • Social isolation, where new members are forbidden from interacting with non-members or other groups.
  • Forced confessions or constant criticism designed to break down self-esteem.
  • Creating an atmosphere of constant fear, anxiety, or secrecy.

• Digital/Online Hazing: A newer but rapidly evolving frontier, digital hazing leverages technology to extend control and humiliation beyond physical gatherings.

  • Group Chat Monitoring: New members must respond instantly to group messages at all hours, with failure often leading to punishment.
  • Online Humiliation: Forcing individuals to post embarrassing content on social media (TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat) or participate in humiliating online “challenges.”
  • Cyberstalking/Geo-tracking: Demanding live location sharing via apps like Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps, exerting constant surveillance.
  • Forced Media Sharing: Pressuring new members to create or share compromising images or videos of themselves or others.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

While fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural chapters) are often the public face of hazing, the problem is far more pervasive. For DeWitt County families, it’s vital to recognize that hazing can infiltrate almost any student organization.

• Greek Life: This includes social fraternities and sororities that are part of Interfraternity Council (IFC), National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek councils.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: These groups, often with deeply ingrained traditions, can foster environments where physical and psychological hazing are seen as tests of loyalty or toughness. The very language of “earning” respect can be twisted into justification for abuse.
• Athletic Teams: From highly competitive varsity sports like football and basketball to club sports, hazing traditions often involve demeaning rituals, forced consumption, or physical abuse. Examples from professional leagues and colleges, such as the Northwestern University hazing scandal, highlight this pervasive issue.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous organizations can succumb to hazing. Acts like forced consumption, public humiliation, or strenuous, unnecessary physical exertion are reported. The tragic death of Robert Champion at Florida A&M’s marching band is a somber reminder.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs, and Student Groups: Organizations like the Texas Cowboys or other campus spirit groups, often rooted in long-standing university traditions, can develop hazing rituals that, while presented as “bonding” or “earning your stripes,” are harmful.
• Academic, Service, and Cultural Organizations: Even groups dedicated to positive pursuits can have a dark underbelly. The pressure to conform and prove dedication can lead to subtle hazing, social exclusion, or forced servitude.

The common threads across all these groups are social status, tradition, and secrecy. The desire to belong, the weight of historical practices, and a strict code of silence often keep these harmful practices alive, even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal and dangerous. For DeWitt County parents, it’s essential to scrutinize the activities of any organization their child joins on campus.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing is critical for families in DeWitt County and across Texas. Hazing is not merely a violation of campus policy; it carries significant criminal penalties and opens avenues for civil litigation.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code – Chapter 37, Subchapter F. In plain terms:

Hazing means 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 powerful. If someone makes a student 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 involved, that’s hazing under Texas law. It doesn’t matter if the act occurs on or off campus, or if it causes mental or physical harm. Crucially, the law explicitly states that a student’s “consent” to the hazing activity is not a defense (Texas Education Code § 37.155). This means that even if a student says “yes” or seems to agree, it is still hazing if it meets the legal definition, recognizing the inherent power imbalances and coercive nature of such acts.

The penalties for hazing in Texas are serious:

• Class B Misdemeanor (default): This applies to hazing that doesn’t result in serious injury, carrying potential penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes an injury that requires medical treatment, the penalty escalates.
• State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a state jail felony, carrying significant prison time.

Additionally, under Texas law, individuals can face misdemeanor charges for failing to report hazing if they are a member or officer of an organization and knew about the hazing. Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor offense. Organizations themselves can be criminally prosecuted for hazing, facing fines up to $10,000 per violation, and universities can revoke their recognition, effectively banning them from campus.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, families often face two distinct legal paths: criminal and civil cases.

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (for example, by local prosecutors in DeWitt County or state district attorneys) against individuals or organizations for violating anti-hazing laws or other criminal statutes. The primary aim of a criminal case is to punish offenders through penalties such as jail time, fines, or probation. In hazing contexts, criminal charges can range from misdemeanor hazing offenses to felony charges like assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, or even manslaughter or negligent homicide in fatal incidents.

• Civil Cases: These are brought by the victims or their surviving family members (the plaintiffs) against the individuals or entities responsible for the harm (the defendants). The goal of a civil lawsuit is to obtain monetary compensation for damages suffered and to hold responsible parties accountable. Civil claims in hazing cases often center on negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring or supervision, or premises liability. Unlike criminal cases, which require proof “beyond a reasonable doubt,” civil cases typically require a lower burden of proof (“preponderance of the evidence”).

It’s important to understand that criminal and civil cases can proceed independently or simultaneously. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for filing a civil lawsuit, nor does the absence of criminal charges prevent victims from seeking civil remedies.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations can also play a significant role in hazing cases, particularly for institutions receiving federal funding. DeWitt County students attending Texas universities are protected by these federal mandates.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation, signed into law in late 2024, mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal financial assistance adhere to stringent hazing prevention and reporting requirements. By 2026, these institutions will be required to:

  • Publicly report all findings of hazing violations and disciplinary actions taken against student organizations.
  • Provide comprehensive hazing education and prevention programming to students and staff.
  • Maintain a public database of reported hazing incidents, increasing transparency and accountability.

• Title IX: This federal law prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance. If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, gender-based violence, or creates a hostile environment based on sex, Title IX obligations are triggered. Universities have a duty to investigate such incidents promptly and effectively, regardless of whether they occur on or off campus, and take steps to prevent recurrence.

• 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. Hazing incidents, especially those involving physical assault, sexual assault, or alcohol/drug offenses, often fall under the Clery Act’s reporting requirements. This means institutions must include these incidents in their annual security reports and issue timely warnings for ongoing threats.

These federal statutes add layers of protection and accountability, compelling universities to take proactive measures against hazing and providing additional legal leverage for victims.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

In a civil hazing lawsuit, a range of individuals and entities may be held responsible for the harm caused. Identifying all potentially liable parties is critical for victims and their families in DeWitt County to seek full accountability and compensation.

• Individual Students: Those who actively participated in, planned, encouraged, or failed to intervene in hazing acts can be held personally liable. This includes older members who orchestrated events, “pledgemasters,” or chapter officers. As seen in the Daylen Dunson case where a Pi Kappa Alpha president was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million, individual liability can be substantial.

• Local Chapter/Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself can be sued if it is recognized as a legal entity. This includes instances where the organization authorized or implicitly condoned the hazing.

• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters (e.g., Pi Kappa Phi national, Sigma Alpha Epsilon national) often carries significant liability. Nationals are expected to oversee their chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, and respond to prior warnings. Their liability often hinges on whether they knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing within their organization or at a specific chapter, and whether they took adequate steps to prevent it. Lawsuits often bring national organizations to the table due to their deeper pockets and broader responsibility.

• University or Governing Board: The institution itself (e.g., the University of Houston Board of Regents, Texas A&M System) can be held liable under certain legal theories. This often involves claims of negligent supervision, failure to enforce policies, or showing deliberate indifference to known hazing risks. While public universities in Texas may assert sovereign immunity, exceptions can apply in cases of gross negligence or Title IX violations. Cases such as the Florida A&M marching band hazing, where the university was found liable for $1 million, demonstrate this potential for institutional accountability.

• Third Parties:

  • Landlords/Property Owners: If hazing occurs on private property, the owner (e.g., of a fraternity house, private residence, or Airbnb) may be liable if they knew or should have known about the hazing and failed to stop it.
  • Alcohol Providers: Businesses that illegally sell or furnish alcohol to minors (dram shop liability) may be held responsible if that alcohol contributes to a hazing injury or death.
  • Event Organizers/Security Companies: If hired for an event where hazing occurs, they may have a duty to prevent harm.

Identifying all potentially liable parties requires a thorough investigation and deep understanding of hazing litigation. For families in DeWitt County, facing complex legal battles against multiple defendants, experienced legal counsel is invaluable.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

Hazing deaths and severe injuries are tragically not isolated incidents; they are often part of disturbing patterns, sometimes across the same national organizations. The experiences of families nationwide, often leading to multi-million dollar settlements and new legislation, serve as critical anchor points for understanding accountability in Texas. These cases underscore what is at stake for DeWitt County families when hazing occurs.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption remains the leading cause of hazing-related deaths. The following cases illustrate the devastating consequences and the common threads among these tragedies:

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In one of the most publicized hazing deaths in recent memory, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after a “bid acceptance” event involving extreme drinking. Fraternity security cameras captured him falling repeatedly, only for his “brothers” to delay calling for medical help for nearly 12 hours. Piazza suffered a fractured skull, ruptured spleen, and traumatic brain injuries, ultimately succumbing to his wounds. Dozens of fraternity members faced criminal charges, and his family pursued civil litigation, leading to comprehensive reforms at Penn State and the enactment of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania. This case solidified the legal consequences of delayed medical care and the culture of silence that often surrounds hazing.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Sophomore Andrew Coffey died from alcohol poisoning after a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were allegedly forced to drink a whole bottle of hard liquor. This tragedy led to criminal hazing charges against multiple fraternity members, most of whom pleaded guilty to misdemeanors. Florida State temporarily suspended all Greek life, prompting a statewide anti-hazing movement. This case exemplifies the fatal risks inherent in “formulaic” drinking nights that are often considered “traditions.”

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game where he was forced to consume excessive amounts of alcohol, reaching a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.495%. The more questions he answered incorrectly, the more he was forced to drink. Gruver’s death spurred Louisiana to enact the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing law. One member was convicted of negligent homicide, and others faced hazing charges. The family later reached a $6.1 million settlement, underscoring that legislative change and significant civil remedies often follow public outrage and clear proof of hazing.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, also 18, died after a “Big-Little” pledge night event where he was coerced to drink an entire bottle of whiskey. His BAC reached a fatal 0.394%. Multiple members were criminally charged, with some receiving jail sentences for hazing, reckless homicide, and official misconduct. The Foltz family secured a $10 million settlement from Pi Kappa Alpha national and a $3 million settlement from Bowling Green State University, demonstrating the significant financial and reputational consequences for both fraternities and institutions. This case highlights how universities can be held accountable alongside national organizations.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized hazing can also lead to catastrophic injury and death.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old pledge, died during a brutal “glass ceiling” ritual at an off-campus fraternity retreat in Pennsylvania. Blindfolded and weighted with a heavy backpack, he was repeatedly body-slammed by members. His tormentors waited over an hour before seeking medical help, initially concocting a cover-up story. Deng died from traumatic brain injuries. This landmark case resulted in multiple criminal convictions, including the national fraternity being found guilty of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter – a rare instance of an organization facing direct criminal liability. Pi Delta Psi was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years and fined over $110,000. This case powerfully illustrates that off-campus “retreats” are often chosen specifically to carry out dangerous hazing away from official oversight, a tactic that does not absolve liability.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not confined to Greek life; it is a pervasive problem that can exist within athletic programs, marching bands, and other student groups.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): A massive scandal erupted at Northwestern following allegations by former football players of widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program stretching back years. The hazing included simulated sexual acts and other degrading rituals. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired and later filed a wrongful-termination lawsuit which was confidentially settled. Multiple players have sued Northwestern and its coaching staff. This high-profile case underscored that hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs, involving a culture of complicity and intimidation that can span decades. It also raised serious questions about institutional oversight at the highest levels of university administration.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies provide crucial lessons for DeWitt County families and students contemplating university life in Texas. The common threads—forced drinking, humiliation, physical violence, delayed medical care, and elaborate cover-ups—are recurring patterns. While the specific universities and organizations differ, the underlying dynamics of peer pressure, secrecy, and institutional indifference remain strikingly similar to cases reported at Texas schools.

These landmark cases demonstrate an increasing legal appetite for accountability, often resulting in multi-million dollar settlements and significant policy changes. For Texas students attending the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other institution, understanding these precedents is vital. They prove that when hazing causes injury or death, victims and their families have powerful legal recourse to seek justice and drive change. Litigation not only provides compensation for damages but often forces institutions and national organizations to confront and reform their harmful practices, preventing future tragedies.

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

For families in DeWitt County and across Texas, it’s crucial to understand how hazing manifests at our state’s prominent universities. While your child may not be attending one of the five universities featured in this section, these schools represent significant pillars of higher education in Texas. The hazing patterns, disciplinary responses, and legal challenges at these institutions often mirror those found across the state, providing invaluable insights for any Texas family concerned about campus cultures. Many students from DeWitt County, while perhaps not attending these specific five universities, may attend other Texas schools where similar patterns of hazing, institutional responses, and legal frameworks apply.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant urban campus, is home to a diverse student body and a thriving Greek life. Due to Attorney911’s active litigation, we have a unique and deep understanding of hazing at UH. The recent Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston / Pi Kappa Phi ($10M lawsuit) case, filed in late 2025 by our own Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, highlights the severity of hazing that can occur even at local institutions.

5.1.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Houston is a massive Tier One research institution in the heart of Houston, serving over 47,000 students. It boasts a significant Greek life presence, including Interfraternity Council (IFC), National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), and National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) chapters, as well as numerous other student organizations. With its urban setting, many students live off-campus, which can sometimes provide cover for illicit activities away from direct university oversight. For DeWitt County families, UH represents a popular destination for higher education, often attracting students who seek a dynamic city college experience. Many students from DeWitt County, while perhaps not attending UH, attend other Texas schools where similar patterns of hazing, institutional responses, and legal frameworks apply.

5.1.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict, publicly accessible Anti-Hazing Policy, which defines hazing broadly to include any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against a student that endangers their mental or physical health or safety for the purpose of initiation or affiliation with an organization. UH policies explicitly prohibit forced consumption of alcohol or controlled substances, physical brutality, sleep deprivation, and any activity that could cause mental distress, shame, humiliation, or degradation.

Students and parents can report hazing via several channels:

• Dean of Students Office: Responsible for student behavior and conduct violations.
• UH Police Department (UHPD): For incidents involving criminal activity.
• Online reporting forms: Often available through the Dean of Students website.
• Anonymous hotlines: Some systems allow for confidential reporting.
  UH is also subject to the Texas Education Code regarding hazing, which mandates transparent reporting of violations.

5.1.3 Documented incidents & responses

UH has a history of hazing incidents that have resulted in disciplinary action against student organizations. While the university doesn’t maintain as detailed a public log as some other peer institutions, enforcement actions are documented.

One significant example is the 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha incident, where pledges were allegedly subjected to sleep and food deprivation during a multi-day event. One student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being violently slammed onto a hard surface. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges, illustrating that physical violence remains a dangerous facet of hazing. This incident led to university suspension and criminal proceedings, highlighting UH’s willingness to take action.

More recently, the events leading to our lawsuit Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston / Pi Kappa Phi illustrate the ongoing dangers. Leonel, a pledge for the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, endured severe hazing that included forced physical exertion, degrading rituals, and forced consumption of various substances that led to acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis. He was subjected to:

• A demeaning “pledge fanny pack” with humiliating contents he had to carry 24/7.
• “Hose spraying similar to waterboarding,” coupled with threats of actual waterboarding.
• Forced “workouts” at Yellowstone Boulevard Park, including hundreds of push-ups and squats.
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate sprints.
• Being left unable to stand, passing brown urine, and requiring a four-day hospitalization due to severe muscle breakdown and kidney failure.

This case, filed in November 2025, resulted in the suspension of the Pi Kappa Phi chapter and its subsequent surrendering of its charter. It demonstrates that despite policies, severe hazing persists and that our firm is actively litigating against these serious abuses.

5.1.4 How a UH hazing case might proceed

A hazing case at the University of Houston can involve multiple agencies and defendants. Depending on the nature and venue of the hazing, investigations might be conducted by UHPD for on-campus incidents, or the Houston Police Department for off-campus events. Criminal charges, if warranted, would be handled by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, which has a track record of prosecuting such cases.

Civil lawsuits against the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi national, associated housing corporations, and individual members would proceed in Harris County civil courts. Due to UH’s status as a public institution, it may initially assert sovereign immunity, but exceptions often apply in cases of gross negligence, Title IX violations, or when individual employees are sued in their personal capacity. Experienced attorneys focusing on Houston-based hazing cases can navigate these complex jurisdictional and legal challenges.

5.1.5 What UH students & parents should do

For UH students and their parents, immediate action and careful documentation are crucial:

• Report promptly: Use UH’s reporting channels (Dean of Students, UHPD) but also consider contacting the Houston Police Department if criminal acts are involved.
• Document everything: Screenshot all group messages (GroupMe, WhatsApp, etc.), DMs, social media posts. Photograph any injuries from multiple angles. Keep detailed notes of dates, times, people involved, and what happened.
• Seek medical help: Any injury, no matter how minor it seems, should be documented by a medical professional. Be explicit with medical staff that injuries were due to hazing.
• Do not confront directly: Avoid directly confronting the organization or individuals involved as this can lead to evidence destruction or accusations against your child.
• Consult legal counsel immediately: An attorney experienced in Houston-based hazing cases, like Attorney911, can advise on preserving critical evidence, navigating the university’s internal processes, and protecting your child’s rights from the outset.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University stands as a beacon of tradition, famous for its deeply ingrained culture and the revered Corps of Cadets. However, even within strong traditions, hazing can take root, affecting both Greek life and Corps activities.

5.2.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Texas A&M in College Station is one of the largest universities in the nation, renowned for its strong Aggie traditions, military-focused Corps of Cadets, and robust Greek life. The campus culture emphasizes loyalty, camaraderie, and a unique sense of community. Its distance from DeWitt County, approximately 100 miles, makes it a frequent destination for students from the DeWitt County area, many of whom have family ties to the Aggie network. This combination of tradition and an active student body can, unfortunately, provide fertile ground for hazing.

5.2.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

Texas A&M has an extensive anti-hazing policy that is clearly communicated, especially given the historical context of hazing within the Corps of Cadets. The policy strictly prohibits any intentional or reckless act, on or off campus, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in any organization. Specific prohibitions include forced consumption of alcohol, physical abuse, psychological torment, and activities that involve servitude or public humiliation. A&M also publishes an annual Hazing Report, listing violations and sanctions, in compliance with state law.

Reporting channels include:

• Dean of Student Life: Oversees student conduct and compliance.
• Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD): For criminal incidents.
• Corps of Cadets Leadership: Specific reporting mechanisms within the Corps structure.
• Anonymous online reporting forms.

5.2.3 Documented incidents & responses

Texas A&M has faced significant hazing incidents throughout its history, affecting both Greek organizations and the Corps of Cadets. These incidents often highlight the tension between cherished traditions and unacceptable abuse.

A notable recent example is the Sigma Alpha Epsilon chemical burns case (2021). Two pledges alleged being subjected to forced strenuous activity, followed by the pouring of substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit on their bodies. This caused severe chemical burns that required skin graft surgeries. The chapter was suspended, and the pledges took legal action against the fraternity.

The Corps of Cadets has also faced scrutiny. In a 2023 lawsuit, a cadet alleged degrading hazing, including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. These acts are often excused as “tradition” or “testing character,” but they clearly cross the line into illegal hazing. While Texas A&M stated it handled the matter according to its rules, the incident underscores the ongoing challenges within highly traditional environments. Historically, this institution faced the tragic Bruce Dean Goodrich case in 1984, where a Corps member died from heatstroke after strenuous exercises.

These incidents demonstrate a pattern of both physical and chemical hazing. The university has typically responded with suspensions or expulsions, and legal action often follows when the university’s internal processes fall short of accountability.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases at Texas A&M involve law enforcement such as TAMUPD or the College Station Police Department, depending on where the incident occurred. Criminal prosecutions are handled by the Brazos County District Attorney’s Office.

Civil lawsuits against Texas A&M (as a public university) may face sovereign immunity challenges, but exceptions for gross negligence or constitutional violations can apply. Lawsuits can also target the national fraternity/sorority, the local chapter, individual students, and any property owners involved. Courts with jurisdiction over College Station, located in Brazos County, would preside over civil matters. The complexity of navigating both university-specific regulations and state legal frameworks necessitates experienced counsel.

5.1.5 What Texas A&M students & parents should do

For Texas A&M students and families from DeWitt County, proactive steps are essential:

• Familiarize yourself with A&M’s detailed Anti-Hazing Policy and the annual Hazing Report, which publicly lists past violations.
• Utilize all reporting channels: Contact the Dean of Student Life, TAMUPD, or Corps leadership. Anonymous reporting options should also be considered.
• Thorough documentation: Collect screenshots of relevant communications, photos of injuries, and detailed notes of all incidents.
• Seek trauma-informed medical and psychological care: Ensure all injuries, physical and psychological, are professionally documented.
• Consult an attorney: Given the unique culture of Texas A&M, an attorney familiar with hazing litigation in College Station can provide crucial guidance on evidence preservation and navigating the university’s processes.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution in the state capital, is known for its vibrant academic and social scene, including a large and active Greek system. For families in DeWitt County and across Texas, UT Austin is a prime destination for higher education, making its hazing landscape particularly relevant.

5.3.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest public universities in the United States, with a bustling campus deeply embedded in the state capital. UT’s traditions are legendary, and its Greek life is extensive, encompassing numerous fraternities and sororities with thousands of student members. The university’s official reporting shows a continuous struggle with hazing culture spanning various student organizations. Students from DeWitt County often look to UT Austin for its prestigious academic programs and dynamic student life.

5.3.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

The University of Texas at Austin has a comprehensive Anti-Hazing Policy that mirrors the Texas Education Code, explicitly prohibiting any hazing activity on or off university premises. The policy ensures that no student is coerced into any act that “harms or intends to harm a student’s physical or mental health or safety.” UT also mandates hazing prevention education for all student organizations.

A key feature of UT’s transparency efforts is its public “Reported Hazing Violations” page (often found at hazing.utexas.edu), which lists organizations, the dates of incidents, the nature of the misconduct, and the disciplinary actions taken. This public log plays a critical role in transparency and accountability.

Reporting channels at UT include:

• Dean of Students Office / Student Conduct and Academic Integrity: For general violations.
• University of Texas Police Department (UTPD): For criminal acts.
• Title IX Office: If hazing involves sex discrimination or sexual violence.
• Anonymous online reporting system: For confidential tips.

5.3.3 Documented incidents & responses

The public nature of UT’s hazing violation log offers invaluable insight into ongoing issues. The log demonstrates that diverse student groups, not just Greek organizations, face sanctions for hazing.

Examples from UT’s own records:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): The chapter was found in violation after new members were directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. This behavior, classic harassment hazing, resulted in the chapter being placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Texas Cowboys (2018; 1995 fatality): This prominent spirit organization, historically involved in “traditions” that have led to fatalities, has been repeatedly sanctioned for hazing. In 2018, a “New Man” (pledge) died in a truck accident under unclear circumstances during a pledge process involving sleep deprivation, sparking renewed calls for accountability regarding the group’s “traditions.” A previous death in 1995, where pledge Gabriel Higgins drowned in the Colorado River after drinking games during an initiation event, further highlights the group’s dangerous past.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2006): Pledge Tyler Cross died in a fall while under the influence of alcohol, with police considering hazing a possible factor. This incident adds to SAE’s national pattern of alcohol-related hazing deaths.
• Lambda Phi Epsilon (2005): Pledge Phanta “Jack” Phoummarath died of acute alcohol intoxication during a fraternity event, after being pressured to drink and eat spicy foods.

UT’s public log, while a step towards transparency, also reveals a pattern of recurring violations. This history underscores that warnings and sanctions, while important, often do not fully eradicate hazing culture without sustained vigilance and robust enforcement.

5.3.4 How a UT hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases at UT Austin are complex, often involving both campus disciplinary action and civil/criminal legal proceedings. Criminal investigations would be led by UTPD for incidents on university property, or the Austin Police Department for off-campus housing or events. The Travis County District Attorney’s Office would handle criminal prosecutions.

In civil litigation, the University of Texas System (a public entity) might invoke sovereign immunity. However, as noted, exceptions exist, particularly in cases of gross negligence, Title IX violations, or when claims are brought against individuals in their personal capacity. Lawsuits can name individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and potentially university officials. Civil cases would be heard in Travis County courts. The presence of UT’s public hazing log is a powerful tool for plaintiffs, as it can demonstrate a pattern of violations and that the university had knowledge of an organization’s history, strengthening arguments for foreseeability and negligent supervision.

5.3.5 What UT students & parents should do

For UT students and their families from DeWitt County, leveraging the university’s transparency can be an advantage:

• Check the UT Hazing Violations page: Before joining any organization, review its history for past hazing sanctions.
• Report all incidents: Use UT’s multiple reporting options, including anonymous ones, but for serious harms, a direct report with legal counsel is often necessary.
• Document relentlessly: Given the common use of social media and digital communication at UT, preserving screenshots of GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram, and text messages is vital.
• Seek legal advice early: A hazing attorney skilled in navigating cases in Travis County can help analyze the university’s public records, build a strong case utilizing documented violations, and counter typical defenses.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, known for its strong academic programs and affluent student body, also has a prominent Greek life that has faced its share of hazing challenges. The private university setting offers a distinct context for addressing hazing incidents compared to public institutions.

5.4.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Southern Methodist University is a private university located in University Park, a prestigious enclave of Dallas. SMU attracts a highly engaged and often affluent student population, with Greek life playing a central role in campus social dynamics. A significant percentage of students participate in fraternities and sororities, contributing to a vibrant but sometimes insular social scene. Although further afield than other major Texas universities from DeWitt County, SMU remains a destination for many Texas students and their families.

5.4.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

SMU has a strict Anti-Hazing Policy that prohibits any activity that could be perceived as hazing, emphasizing that consent is not a defense. As a private institution, SMU’s policies often have more direct control over student organizations, but transparency around specific incidents can sometimes differ from public universities. SMU promotes a campus culture of integrity and safety, often highlighting its anti-hazing initiatives.

Reporting channels at SMU include:

• Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards: Handles all violations of the student code of conduct.
• SMU Police Department (SMUPD): For any criminal acts occurring on campus.
• SMU’s “Report Hazing” online form: Allows for anonymous submissions.
• Title IX Coordinator: For gender-based discrimination or sexual misconduct related to hazing.

5.4.3 Documented incidents & responses

SMU has a history of addressing hazing incidents within its Greek organizations, demonstrating that despite its private status, the university actively investigates and sanctions violations.

One notable incident involved the SMU Kappa Alpha Order chapter (2017). The chapter was sanctioned after allegations emerged of new members being paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and deprived of sleep. This incident, consistent with physical and alcohol hazing patterns seen nationally, led to the chapter’s suspension and significant restrictions on its activities and recruiting for several years. The swift university response underscored SMU’s intolerance for such behavior.

Other incidents, while not always publicly detailed to the same extent as at public universities (due to differences in public information laws), are regularly addressed through SMU’s internal disciplinary processes. These actions serve as a reminder that SMU monitors its student organizations closely for hazing violations.

5.4.4 How an SMU hazing case might proceed

In cases of hazing at SMU, criminal investigations would be led by SMUPD for on-campus incidents or the University Park Police Department for activities occurring in the surrounding community. Criminal prosecutions would be handled by the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office, which has experience with hazing-related offenses.

Civil lawsuits against SMU (as a private university) or its associated organizations would proceed in Dallas County civil courts. Private universities do not benefit from sovereign immunity, making them generally more susceptible to civil litigation directly. Potential defendants would include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and the university itself. The focus of such cases would often be on allegations of negligent supervision, creation of a dangerous environment, or failure to enforce established anti-hazing policies.

5.4.5 What SMU students & parents should do

For SMU students and their families:

• Understand SMU’s culture: Acknowledge Greek life’s prominence and the associated social pressures.
• Review SMU’s policies: Familiarize yourself with the Anti-Hazing Policy and the Student Code of Conduct. While a public violations log might not be as detailed, be aware of information communicated officially by the university.
• Utilize confidential reporting: If direct reporting is intimidating, use SMU’s anonymous online reporting options.
• Document discreetly: If you suspect hazing, begin gathering evidence (screenshots, photos) carefully and without drawing attention, to protect the evidence.
• Seek prompt legal counsel: An attorney experienced in hazing cases in Dallas County can help families navigate SMU’s internal processes, understand the differences in litigating against a private institution, and pursue all available legal avenues.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Christian institution with deep roots in Texas, offers a unique educational environment that has also grappled with hazing within its academic and athletic programs.

5.5.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Baylor University, located in Waco, is the oldest continuously operating university in Texas. As a private Christian university, it emphasizes faith-based education, service, and community. Greek life plays a role in student social life, alongside numerous other student organizations and highly competitive NCAA athletic programs. The university’s strong institutional identity and values inform its approach to student conduct and safety. Located in McLennan County, Waco is somewhat central within Texas, making Baylor an accessible and attractive option for many students, including those from DeWitt County seeking a distinct university experience.

5.5.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

Baylor University maintains a robust Anti-Hazing Policy consistent with Texas law, explicitly prohibiting any act for initiation or affiliation that endangers a student’s mental or physical health. The policy outlines severe penalties for violations, aligning with Baylor’s commitment to a safe and nurturing campus environment. Because of its Christian mission, Baylor often frames its anti-hazing message through the lens of ethical conduct and respect for individuals.

Reporting channels at Baylor include:

• Office of Student Conduct & Community Life: Responsible for investigating and adjudicating hazing reports.
• Baylor University Police Department (BUPD): For any criminal violations.
• Athletic Department administration: For hazing within sports teams.
• Anonymous reporting via online forms or hotline.

5.4.3 Documented incidents & responses

Baylor University’s commitment to combating hazing has been tested by various incidents, demonstrating that the issue can arise even within institutions with strong ethical foundations.

A significant instance involved the Baylor baseball program (2020), where 14 players were suspended following a hazing investigation. While specific details of the hazing were not fully disclosed, the synchronized suspensions of a large portion of the team indicated serious misconduct. This incident underscored that athletic programs, driven by intense competitive pressures, can also fall victim to hazing culture, even at institutions like Baylor with a strong moral code. The university’s response of widespread suspensions demonstrated its willingness to take decisive action against such practices.

This incident, coming after Baylor’s broader scrutiny over football and Title IX issues related to sexual assault, highlights the ongoing challenge for the university to uphold its official stance on safety and student welfare against recurring instances of misconduct.

5.4.4 How a Baylor hazing case might proceed

In cases of hazing at Baylor, criminal investigations would be conducted by BUPD for incidents on campus or the Waco Police Department for off-campus events. Criminal prosecutions would be handled by the McLennan County District Attorney’s Office.

Civil lawsuits against Baylor University (as a private institution) or its associated organizations would proceed in McLennan County civil courts. As a private entity, Baylor does not have the protection of sovereign immunity, making it a more direct target for civil litigation. Potential defendants can include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and the university itself. Claims would likely focus on negligent supervision, failure to enforce policies, or creating a culture that enabled hazing. Given Baylor’s past Title IX challenges, any hazing with elements of gender-based violence could also attract federal scrutiny.

5.4.5 What Baylor students & parents should do

For Baylor students and their families:

• Emphasize values alignment: Discuss with your child whether the activities of an organization truly align with Baylor’s stated values and personal ethics.
• Know the reporting process: Familiarize yourself with Baylor’s reporting mechanisms and not hesitate to use them.
• Document and communicate: Encourage your child to document any concerning activities discreetly and to communicate openly with a trusted adult.
• Seek expert legal advice: An attorney well-versed in hazing litigation in McLennan County and adept at handling cases against private institutions can provide critical guidance.

5.6 The University System of Texas

This comprehensive section highlights prominent individual universities within Texas. However, it’s imperative to acknowledge that the entire University System of Texas, along with its associated student organizations, has a shared responsibility in addressing hazing across its numerous campuses. For families in DeWitt County and throughout Texas, this means hazing is not confined to one institution but is a systemic challenge for all of higher education.

5.6.1 The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV)

5.6.1.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, with campuses spanning the lower Rio Grande Valley, serves a large and diverse student population. As a relatively new institution formed from the merger of UT-Pan American and UT-Brownsville, UTRGV has rapidly grown into a major Hispanic-serving institution, fostering a unique blend of South Texas culture and academic ambition. Its Greek life and numerous student organizations reflect the diverse interests of its student body.

5.6.1.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

UTRGV rigorously enforces an Anti-Hazing Policy that mirrors the Texas Education Code, prohibiting all forms of hazing both on and off campus. The policy underscores the university’s commitment to student safety and zero tolerance for behaviors that compromise mental or physical health. UTRGV actively promotes awareness campaigns and educational programs to prevent hazing within its student organizations.

Reporting channels at UTRGV typically include:

• Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities: Primary point for reporting alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct, including hazing.
• UTRGV Police Department: For incidents involving potential criminal activity.
• Title IX Coordinator: If hazing involves elements of sex discrimination or sexual harassment.
• Anonymous reporting options: Available online to encourage confidential disclosures.

5.6.1.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

While specific, publicly detailed hazing incident reports for UTRGV may not be as widely disseminated as those from older, larger state universities, the institution has demonstrated its commitment to addressing violations through internal disciplinary processes. Consistent with trends across Texas, these incidents often involve smaller-scale infractions that are addressed internally, as well as more severe cases that resulted in suspensions or probation of student groups. The university’s stance aligns with the statewide effort to ensure all Texas students are protected from hazing.

5.6.1.4 How a UTRGV hazing case might proceed

Given UTRGV’s status as a public university, civil lawsuits against the institution would contend with the same sovereign immunity defenses as other public Texas universities. However, exceptions based on gross negligence or Title IX violations would remain applicable. Cases would be initiated in the appropriate county courts within the Rio Grande Valley (Hidalgo or Cameron County), depending on the specific campus and location of the incident. These cases would involve individual students, local chapter entities, and national organizations as potential defendants.

5.6.1.5 What students and parents at UTRGV should do

For students and parents involved with UTRGV:

• Review UTRGV’s Anti-Hazing Policy: Understand what constitutes hazing and the zero-tolerance stance.
• Utilize reporting mechanisms: Be aware of how and where to report concerns, including anonymous options.
• Prioritize documentation: Discreetly collect any evidence (digital communications, photos) that could corroborate hazing allegations.
• Consult legal professionals earliest: Seek advice from attorneys experienced in Texas hazing law to understand legal options and protective measures.

5.6.2 Other Prominent Texas Universities Where DeWitt County Families Send Students

Beyond these major institutions, many DeWitt County families send their children to other valued universities across Texas. These schools, though perhaps smaller or with different profiles, are equally susceptible to hazing, and their students deserve the same protections and legal recourse.

• Texas State University (San Marcos): Known for its vibrant campus and robust Greek life, Texas State has faced significant hazing incidents. The 2017 death of Matthew Ellis, a Phi Kappa Psi pledge who died from alcohol poisoning after a “Deadly Bottle Gift” ritual, is a tragic reminder. This case led to criminal charges and underscored the dangers of forced drinking. Texas State’s public hazing report (similar to UT’s) lists numerous other violations across fraternities, sororities, and other student organizations.
• Stephen F. Austin State University (Nacogdoches): This East Texas university attracts students often involved in Greek life. In 2007, Nikolas Gallegos, a Tau Kappa Epsilon pledge, died from an alcohol overdose at a fraternity party, an incident that prompted charges for furnishing alcohol to a minor. The university subsequently implemented stricter policies and reporting.
• Sam Houston State University (Huntsville): With a strong emphasis on criminal justice and a growing Greek presence, SHSU has also seen hazing activity. While specific fatality details are less known publicly, the university actively sanctions student organizations for alcohol violations and harassment hazing.
• Texas Christian University (Fort Worth): As a private university with a prominent Greek system, TCU has a history of hazing incidents documented through campus disciplinary actions. The 2018 Kappa Sigma hazing incident, which resulted in arrests for coercing pledges to drink multiple shots, showed the physical harm and legal consequences of such practices. In a related tragedy, a member charged with hazing later committed suicide, highlighting the immense psychological toll.
• Texas A&M University-Commerce (Commerce): This university also addresses hazing within its student organizations. Disciplinary records indicate violations ranging from forced consumption to physical endangerment.
• University of North Texas (Denton): UNT has a significant Greek presence and has dealt with hazing cases, generally through suspensions and requiring new member education reform.
• Texas Woman’s University (Denton): While primarily a women’s institution, its Greek and student organizations are also subject to hazing policies and enforcement actions.
• Texas Tech University (Lubbock): Texas Tech has a history of severe hazing incidents, including the tragic 2014 Alpha Sigma Phi case where pledge Dalton Debrick died from alcohol poisoning. This case led to criminal charges and civil litigation, reinforcing the dangers of forced drinking rituals. Other incidents involving extensive physical hazing and forced servitude have led to suspensions of multiple Greek chapters.

For families in DeWitt County whose children attend these or any other Texas university, the same principles of vigilance, prompt reporting, and legal consultation apply. Regardless of the institution, Attorney911 is equipped to assist families throughout Texas.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Understanding the history of hazing in specific national fraternities and sororities, and how that history impacts their chapters at leading Texas universities, is a critical component of hazing litigation. For DeWitt County families, knowing these patterns can be vital in anticipating risks and pursuing accountability.

Why National Histories Matter

When your child experiences hazing at a local chapter affiliated with a national fraternity or sorority at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, it’s rarely an isolated incident. Most of these organizations operate under a national charter, with established policies, educational programs, and—critically—a long history of incidents, both positive and tragically negative.

• Foreseeability: National organizations often have extensive anti-hazing manuals and risk management policies precisely because they have seen deaths and catastrophic injuries in the past. When a local chapter in Texas repeats a hazing script that has led to a death or lawsuit in another state, it demonstrates foreseeability. The national entity (and often the university) had prior knowledge of the danger but failed to prevent recurrence.
• Pattern Evidence: Courts can consider a pattern of similar hazing incidents across an organization’s different chapters. This “pattern evidence” can be a powerful tool in civil litigation, helping to prove that the national organization had constructive notice of dangerous practices and failed to take adequate preventative measures.
• Organizational Liability: Texas law (Education Code § 37.153) explicitly allows for organizational liability. When a national organization’s actions (or inactions) contribute to hazing at a local chapter, they can be held financially responsible. This often includes instances where nationals were aware of a chapter’s hazing history, failed to impose sufficient sanctions, or did not adequately train and supervise local officers.

Organization Mapping: Key Fraternities and Sororities in Texas with National Hazing Histories

Below, we detail some of the prominent fraternities and sororities with chapters at major Texas universities that have well-documented hazing issues nationally. This is not an exhaustive list but highlights organizations with a known pattern of incidents.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

  • National Pattern: Pike has a disturbing national pattern of alcohol-related hazing deaths.
    • Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University, 2021): Died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume nearly an entire bottle of whiskey. This led to criminal convictions and a $10 million settlement (from national and university).
    • David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois University, 2012): Died from alcohol poisoning during a pledge event, leading to a $14 million settlement for his family.
  • Texas Relevance: Pike has a presence at various Texas universities, including the University of Houston, where an incident in 2016 involved a pledge with a lacerated spleen. The national pattern of extreme alcohol consumption directly relates to the risks faced by Texas pledges.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

  • National Pattern: SAE has been labeled “America’s deadliest fraternity” by Bloomberg News, with numerous hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide involving alcohol and physical abuse.
    • Carson Starkey (Cal Poly, 2008): Died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink a bag of liquor.
    • University of Alabama (2023): Facing a lawsuit alleging a pledge suffered a traumatic brain injury during hazing.
  • Texas Relevance: SAE has chapters at Texas A&M and UT Austin. The Texas A&M chemical burns case (2021), where pledges sustained severe burns from being doused with industrial cleaner, is a direct example of dangerous physical hazing. A recent UT Austin (2024) lawsuit alleges assault against an exchange student. These cases demonstrate the national pattern manifesting locally.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

  • National Pattern: Known for tragic alcohol-related hazing deaths.
    • Maxwell “Max” Gruver (LSU, 2017): Died from alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.495%) during a forced drinking game. This led to the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana and a $6.1 million settlement for the family.
  • Texas Relevance: UT Austin has had a Phi Delta Theta chapter. The national pattern of forced drinking games is a significant concern for Texas pledges.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

  • National Pattern: This fraternity faces numerous hazing allegations, particularly involving excessive alcohol.
    • Andrew Coffey (Florida State University, 2017): Died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” ritual.
  • Texas Relevance: Our firm, Attorney911, is actively litigating the most recent, high-profile hazing case in Texas against this fraternity: Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston / Pi Kappa Phi ($10M lawsuit, filed late 2025). This case, involving acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis from extreme physical and forced consumption hazing, directly links the national pattern to the behavior of its chapters in Texas, proving that Attorney911 is at the forefront of combating hazing in the state.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ):

  • National Pattern: Has a history of severe hazing, including fatalities and injuries related to alcohol and physical abuse.
    • Chad Meredith (University of Miami, 2001): Died in a drowning incident after alleged hazing involving alcohol, leading to a $12.6 million verdict against the fraternity and individuals.
    • Texas A&M (2023): Currently facing litigation for hazing resulting in severe physical injuries (rhabdomyolysis) from extreme physical activities.
  • Texas Relevance: Kappa Sigma has chapters at TCU and Texas A&M, where similar historical hazing patterns pose a direct threat to students.

• Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI):

  • National Pattern: Known for severe alcohol-related hazing and extreme physical abuse.
    • Danny Santulli (University of Missouri, 2021): Suffered permanent, catastrophic brain damage after ritualized forced alcohol consumption, leading to multi-million dollar settlements.
  • Texas Relevance: FIJI has a presence at Texas A&M, where a Trey Walker died from asthma (1997) after being soaked with water on a chilly day. The national pattern of physically dangerous rituals makes its Texas chapters a concern.

• Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ):

  • National Pattern: Primarily a historically Black fraternity, Omega Psi Phi has faced numerous allegations of physical hazing, including brutal beatings and physical endurance tests.
    • University of Southern Mississippi (2023): Faced a federal lawsuit alleging “Hell Night” hazing involving beatings with a paddle.
  • Texas Relevance: Chapters are present at several Texas universities, including Lamar University, where Harold Thomas (1986) died on a track from heart failure during a physical exercise session initiated by members.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

For DeWitt County families, these national and campus-specific hazing histories are not just cautionary tales; they are crucial components of a legal strategy.

• Demonstrating Foreseeability: When a local chapter in Texas engages in hazing that mirrors past incidents elsewhere in the national organization, it becomes much harder for the national headquarters to claim ignorance or that the events were “unforeseeable.” Our legal team can leverage national patterns to argue that the national organization had a duty to implement stronger controls and failed.
• Uncovering Systemic Issues: Repeated incidents across different chapters often indicate systemic issues within a national organization’s culture, risk management, or enforcement of anti-hazing policies. This can strengthen claims of negligence against the national entity.
• Challenging Defenses: Knowledge of these histories helps counter common defenses, such as claims that hazing was “rogue behavior” by a local chapter or that national had no idea. Past university sanctions and internal records can expose a gap between stated policies and actual enforcement.

By connecting specific Texas incidents (like the Bermudez case at UH) to broader national patterns, Attorney911 can build a compelling case that seeks not only compensation for victims but also forces lasting change within fraternities, sororities, and universities nationwide.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Successfully litigating a hazing case in Texas, particularly against powerful institutions like universities and national fraternities, requires meticulous evidence collection, a deep understanding of applicable damages, and a sophisticated legal strategy. For families in DeWitt County, navigating this complex landscape without experienced counsel can be overwhelming.

7.1 Evidence

The strength of any hazing case hinges on compelling evidence that proves the incident occurred, the extent of the harm, and the responsibility of the defendants. In the modern era, evidence is largely digital and often fleeting. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos.

• Digital Communications: These are often the most critical piece of evidence in contemporary hazing cases.

  • Group Messaging Apps: Platforms like GroupMe (ubiquitous in Greek life), WhatsApp, iMessage, Signal, and Discord are where hazing is often planned, ordered, and discussed. Screenshots must capture the full conversation threads, timestamps, and participant identities accurately. Any messages that indicate coercion, threats, planning, or a cover-up are invaluable.
  • Social Media Evidence: Posts, stories, DMs, or comments on Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, and TikTok can reveal hazing acts, humiliation, or implicit coercion. Location tags, hashtags, and captions can provide context. Even deleted content may sometimes be recoverable through digital forensics.
  • Text Messages / DMs: Direct communications between members can provide clear instructions, threats, or acknowledgments of hazing.
  • Emails: Official or unofficial emails among chapter members, advisors, or university staff can reveal planning, knowledge of incidents, or attempts to cover up.

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is incredibly powerful.

  • Injuries: Multiple photos of injuries from various angles, taken over several days, are crucial to document severity and progression. Placing a common item (like a coin) for scale is helpful.
  • Hazing Events: Any photos or videos taken by participants (often for “fun” or documentation) can be direct proof of the hazing acts themselves.
  • Locations & Objects: Photos of the venue, specific rooms, or objects used in hazing (paddles, alcohol bottles, props) provide context and corroboration.

• Internal Organization Documents: These shed light on the official and unofficial practices of the group.

  • Pledge Manuals/Initiation Scripts: While officially “anti-hazing,” these sometimes contain subtle instructions or euphemisms that, when read in context, point to hazing.
  • Chapter Communications: Emails, texts, or meeting minutes between officers, “pledgemasters,” or new member educators can reveal how hazing was planned and managed.
  • National Policies/Training: These documents, often subpoenaed from national headquarters, demonstrate what the national body knew or should have known regarding hazing risks.

• University Records: These help establish the institution’s knowledge and actions.

  • Prior Conduct Files: Documented hazing violations, probation, or suspensions of the same chapter or individuals in the past.
  • Incident Reports: Reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices.
  • Public Records: For public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT, public records requests can yield valuable information on prior incidents or university responses.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the extent of the victim’s harm.

  • Emergency Room/Hospitalization Records: Detailed accounts of physical injuries, diagnoses (e.g., rhabdomyolysis, alcohol poisoning), and treatments.
  • Toxicology Reports: Essential for alcohol or drug-related hazing deaths or injuries.
  • Psychological Evaluations: Documentation of PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other mental health impacts.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts corroborate other evidence.

  • Pledges, former members, roommates, coaches, RAs, or even bystanders who witnessed hazing can provide crucial testimony.

7.2 Damages

Victims and families can pursue various categories of damages in a civil hazing lawsuit, aiming to compensate for all harm suffered. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic cases.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs associated with physical injuries.

  • Past Medical Expenses: Ambulance, emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and mental health counseling.
  • Future Medical Expenses: Projections for ongoing therapy, long-term psychiatric care, future surgeries, and specialized care plans for catastrophic injuries (like in the Danny Santulli case, where a victim requires 24/7 care for life).

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can derail a student’s academic and professional future.

  • Lost Wages: Income lost if the victim or a parent had to miss work due to injuries or caregiving.
  • Lost Educational Opportunities: Cost of tuition/fees for missed semesters, loss of scholarships (academic or athletic), delayed graduation, and the resulting delay in entering the workforce.
  • Diminished Future Earning Capacity: If persistent physical or psychological injuries prevent the victim from pursuing their chosen career or working full-time.

• Non-Economic Damages: These intangible harms are often the most significant part of compensation.

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: For the agony of injuries, treatments, and chronic pain.
  • Emotional Distress: Covering the trauma, anxiety, depression, humiliation, and loss of dignity. This can include diagnoses like PTSD, often needing long-term therapy.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: When injuries prevent the victim from participating in hobbies, social activities, or experiencing a normal collegiate life.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): In cases of hazing fatalities, families can seek:

  • Funeral and Burial Costs: Direct expenses related to the death.
  • Loss of Financial Support: Compensation for the financial contributions the deceased would have made to the family.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Society: For the profound emotional void left by the victim’s passing.
  • Grief and Emotional Suffering: For the mental anguish experienced by surviving family members.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

The defendants in a hazing lawsuit – individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and universities – often possess varying levels of financial assets and insurance coverage. This is a critical area where Attorney911’s expertise, particularly that of Lupe Peña, becomes invaluable.

• Insurance Companies: National fraternities and universities generally carry significant insurance policies to protect against liability. However, their insurers frequently attempt to deny coverage, arguing that hazing constitutes “intentional acts” or “criminal conduct,” which are often excluded from standard policies. Our criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) means we understand both the criminal and civil tracks.
• Lupe Peña’s Advantage: Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is crucial for navigating fraternity and university insurance coverage disputes. She understands their playbook, including how they:
  • Interpret Exclusionary Language: Identify loopholes or specific wording to deny or limit claims.
  • Employ Delay Tactics: Prolong the process to wear down plaintiffs.
  • Assess Claims: Determine how they value (or undervalue) a hazing incident based on their own risk assessments.
  • Challenge “Intentional Conduct” Defenses: We often argue that while the hazing act itself might be intentional, the national organization’s or university’s negligent supervision or failure to enforce policies is what caused the injury, which can be covered.

An experienced hazing attorney understands how to identify all potential sources of insurance coverage, challenge unwarranted denials, and negotiate forcefully to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

Hazing is a complex issue, fraught with legal and emotional challenges. For DeWitt County families and students, knowing how to respond—and what critical mistakes to avoid—can make all the difference.

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Parents are often the first to notice subtle changes in their children that may indicate hazing. Vigilance and proactive communication are key.

• Warning Signs of Hazing:

  • Unexplained injuries: Bruises, burns, cuts, or “accidents” that don’t add up.
  • Extreme physical changes: Sudden exhaustion, chronic sleep deprivation, noticeable weight loss or gain.
  • Drastic mood shifts: Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, sudden withdrawal from family or old friends, personality changes.
  • Secrecy: Refusal to discuss organization activities, using phrases like “I can’t talk about it,” or secretive phone behavior.
  • Fear of “getting in trouble”: An overwhelming fear of retribution from older members or the organization.
  • Financial strains: Unexplained large expenses, requests for money without clear explanation, or constant purchases for older members.
  • Digital red flags: Obsessive checking of group chats, deleting messages, anxiety about phone pings, or demanding “live location” sharing.

• How to talk to your child: Approach the conversation empathetically, without judgment. Reassure them that their safety is paramount. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are you truly feeling about [organization] right now?” or “Do you ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable during activities?” Emphasize that you will support them regardless of their choices.

• If your child is hurt: Prioritize medical attention immediately. Insist that the medical staff document all injuries and, critically, state that they occurred during a hazing incident. Simultaneously, start documenting everything you can: take photos of injuries, keep a detailed log of dates and events, and save any digital communications or physical evidence.

• Dealing with the university: Document every interaction with university officials. Ask specific questions about the organization’s disciplinary history and the steps the university plans to take. Be aware that the university’s primary goal may be to protect its reputation and may downplay the severity of the incident.

• When to talk to a lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing or covering up the incident, contact an experienced attorney. An early consultation can protect your rights and ensure evidence is preserved.

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

For students involved in or considering joining an organization, a crucial first step is to recognize hazing and understand your rights.

• Is this hazing or just tradition? Ask yourself: Am I being forced to do something I genuinely don’t want to do? Is this activity humiliating, dangerous, or illegal? Would the university or my parents approve of this? Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about this to outsiders? If the answer is yes to any of these, it is likely hazing, regardless of how it’s labeled. Texas law explicitly states that “consent is not a defense” to hazing (Texas Education Code § 37.155). This means even if you “agree” or “volunteer,” the organization can still be held liable.

• Why “consent” isn’t the end of the story: The law acknowledges that true consent cannot exist in a coercive environment. The power dynamics, the intense desire for belonging, and the fear of exclusion or retribution mean that “agreeing” to hazing activities is often done under duress, not true free will.

• Exiting and reporting safely: You have an absolute right to leave any organization or activity at any time without penalty or social retribution. If you feel unsafe, remove yourself from the situation immediately. Call a trusted friend, family member, RA, or campus police. You can report hazing anonymously through campus hotlines or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE). For serious incidents, filing a formal report with the Dean of Students or local police, often with legal counsel, might be necessary.

• Good-faith reporting and amnesty: Many schools and Texas law offer good-faith reporter protections. This means if you call for help in a medical emergency, you or others involved may not face disciplinary action for underage drinking or minor infractions. Your safety is always the top priority.

8.4 For Former Members / Witnesses

You may have witnessed hazing, participated in it, or even been a perpetrator in the past, and now feel guilt, regret, or a desire to speak out. Your perspective is incredibly valuable.

• Your role in preventing future harm: Your testimony and evidence can be crucial in holding responsible parties accountable and preventing similar incidents from harming other students.
• Legal protections: Texas law offers immunity for individuals who report hazing in good faith (Texas Education Code § 37.154). While this may not cover your own prior criminal acts, providing truthful testimony is always better than facing criminal charges for cover-ups or obstruction.
• Seeking legal advice: If you have concerns about your own legal exposure but wish to assist in an investigation, consult with an attorney to understand your rights and options. An attorney can help you engage with investigators and legal teams.

8.5 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

Hazing cases are among the most difficult to litigate due to the culture of secrecy and rapid destruction of evidence. Knowing what common errors to avoid can be just as important as knowing what steps to take. Attorney911’s video on client mistakes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) details these pitfalls.

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

   • What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Deleting evidence (e.g., incriminating group chats) can be seen as an obstruction of justice, making a legal case nearly impossible to prove. Defense attorneys will relentlessly pursue deleted data, and its absence can severely weaken your position.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even if it feels embarrassing. Screenshot every relevant message, photo, and video.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This immediately puts the organization on high alert. They will likely destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defenses, making it much harder to gather unvarnished facts later.
   • What to do instead: Gather information and consult a lawyer before any direct confrontation.

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

   • What universities do: They may pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements as a quick fix.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your right to pursue further legal action, and university-offered “settlements” are typically far below the true value of a case. They prioritize institutional reputation over your child’s full compensation.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign any document from the university or an insurance representative without having an attorney review it first.

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

   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Anything posted online can be used against you. Defense attorneys will screenshot everything, and any inconsistencies can hurt your credibility. It can also inadvertently waive certain legal privileges.
   • What to do instead: Document everything privately and meticulously. Let your lawyer control public communication.

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

   • What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic.”
   • Why it’s wrong: These meetings are often designed to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can later be used to undermine your case.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication from your child to the organization should cease and be routed through your lawyer.

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

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, the statute of limitations runs, and the university primarily controls the narrative to protect itself.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW. Consult a lawyer immediately to ensure swift action, as university processes rarely lead to full accountability or compensation.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters represent the insurance company’s interests, not yours. They will seek recorded statements that minimize the company’s liability and offer lowball settlements.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to provide any statement and inform them that your attorney will contact them.

8.6 Short FAQ

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

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default. However, it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals, including chapter officers, can also face misdemeanor charges for failing to report hazing they are aware of.

• “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 laws recognize that “consent” given under duress, peer pressure, power imbalance, or fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”
  Generally, you have 2 years from the date of injury or death to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit in Texas. However, specific circumstances, such as the “discovery rule” (when the harm or its cause was not immediately apparent) or fraudulent concealment, may extend this period. Time is critical: evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations destroy records. Consulting a lawyer immediately is crucial. You can 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 eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities or sororities can still be held responsible based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability of the events, even if they occur off-campus. Many major hazing cases, such as the Chun “Michael” Deng tragedy at a remote retreat, resulted in national fraternity convictions despite occurring off-campus.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing cases settle confidentially before going to trial. Our firm prioritizes your family’s privacy and will pursue strategies that protect your child’s identity while still seeking maximum accountability and compensation. We can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms.

• “What kind of compensation can a family receive in a hazing lawsuit?”
  Compensation can cover a wide range of damages, including medical bills (past and future), lost educational opportunities, lost earning capacity (if there are permanent injuries), physical pain and suffering, and emotional distress (including PTSD, anxiety, humiliation). In wrongful death cases, families can also recover for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship and emotional suffering for the family. In cases of extreme recklessness, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the defendants and deter future misconduct. Learn about hazing settlements in our video How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onBzdkIWadY.

9. About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

9.1 Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. This is where The Manginello Law Firm, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, stands apart.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including DeWitt County and surrounding areas. We recognize that hazing at Texas universities affects families in rural communities and major metropolitan areas alike. Our firm’s unique qualifications address the specific challenges presented by hazing litigation:

• Insurance Insider Advantage – Lupe Peña: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings an unparalleled perspective. As a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm, she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies think. She understands their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and their settlement strategies because she used to run them. This insider knowledge is invaluable, allowing us to anticipate their moves and build stronger cases. Lupe Peña’s complete credentials can be reviewed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions – Ralph Manginello: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has a proven track record of taking on formidable opponents. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation—a complex case against a billion-dollar corporation. This experience, coupled with his admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, means our firm is not intimidated by powerful national fraternities, universities, or their well-funded defense teams. Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials can be reviewed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We don’t settle cheap. Our firm has a proven track record in obtaining multi-million dollar results for families in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We collaborate with economists to project lost lifetime earnings and future care costs for victims suffering from brain injuries or permanent disabilities, ensuring comprehensive compensation. Our firm’s wrongful death page can be viewed at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.

• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Hazing often crosses the line into criminal conduct. Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) underscores our understanding of both the criminal and civil aspects of these cases. Whether advising on potential criminal exposure for witnesses or navigating prosecutors’ decisions, our dual expertise positions us uniquely to handle every facet of hazing litigation. Our criminal defense page can be viewed at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.

• Investigative Depth: We deploy a network of experts—medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists—to build an unassailable case. We know how to obtain hidden evidence, from deleted group chats and social media content to national fraternity records and university files, often through meticulous subpoena and discovery processes. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

We approach every case with deep empathy and a commitment to victim advocacy. We understand this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. For a general overview of our firm and our approach, please visit https://attorney911.com/.

9.2 Call to Action

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether it’s the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other institution—we want to hear from you. Families in DeWitt County and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward.

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story with compassion and without judgment.
• We’ll review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• We’ll explain your legal options, discussing whether a criminal report, civil lawsuit, or both might be appropriate, or if another path is best.
• We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the legal process.
• We’ll answer your questions about costs, as we work on a contingency fee basis—we don’t get paid unless we win your case. You can learn more about this in our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
• There’s no pressure to hire us on the spot—we want you to make an informed decision.
• Everything you tell us is confidential.

Provide clear contact information:

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

Spanish-language services:

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

Whether you’re in DeWitt County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

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