Dickens County Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $24M Pi Kappa Alpha Settlements Exposed | Attorney911 — The Firm That Shut Down Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu | Former Insurance Defense | Federal Court Experience | 1-888-ATTY-911

When a new semester begins in Dickens County, Texas, the anticipation of college life fills the air for many young Texans, whether they’re heading to local institutions or major universities across the state. The dreams of academic success, new friendships, and exciting experiences are often at the forefront. Yet, for some, this vibrant chapter can take a dark turn, shadowed by the dangerous, demeaning, and often illegal practice of hazing.

Imagine a scene that could unfold just a few hours’ drive from Dickens County, at one of Texas’s largest universities. It’s “initiation night” for a fraternity, or perhaps a spirited tradition within the Corps of Cadets. A student, eager to belong, is pressured to consume alcohol far beyond safe limits. His friends are there, some cheering, some filming on their phones, others quietly uneasy. Soon, he collapses, too intoxicated to respond. The dilemma hangs heavy in the air: call for help and risk “getting the chapter shut down,” or try to handle it internally and potentially escalate the crisis? This isn’t a hypothetical situation; it’s a reality that unfolded for Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston, a case Attorney911 is actively litigating. The terrifying truth is that this scenario, or one strikingly similar, could happen at any Texas university—including schools where Dickens County families send their children, like Texas Tech in Lubbock, or the larger universities in Dallas, Houston, or Austin.

This guide is for you, the families in Dickens County and across Texas, who need to understand the complex, often hidden world of hazing. We aim to shed light on what hazing truly looks like in 2025, how Texas and federal law address it, and what lessons can be drawn from major national cases. Crucially, we will delve into the hazing landscape at prominent Texas institutions such as the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University. Our goal is to provide a roadmap of legal options for victims and families in Dickens County and throughout Texas.

We understand that you’re seeking clarity and answers during a challenging time. Please remember, this article provides general information and is not a substitute for specific legal advice tailored to your situation. The Manginello Law Firm evaluates each case on its unique facts. We stand ready to serve families throughout Texas, including those in Dickens County, offering experienced legal counsel.

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

For Dickens County families, the term “hazing” might conjure images from movies, depicting silly pranks or harmless initiation rituals. In reality, hazing in 2025 is a far more insidious and dangerous practice, often deeply hidden behind a veil of secrecy and tradition. It’s not just about a little embarrassment; it’s designed to exert power, foster blind loyalty, and strip away individuality, often with devastating physical and psychological consequences.

At its core, hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action connected to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group. This behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. It’s crucial to understand that even if someone “agrees” to participate, true consent is often absent due to intense peer pressure, the desire to belong, and the implicit threat of exclusion or punishment for refusal.

Main Categories of Hazing: Beyond the Stereotypes

Hazing has evolved far beyond the classic images. Today’s tactics are often more sophisticated, harder to detect, and can be inflicted with alarming regularity.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is arguably the most common and deadliest form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking, often through brutal games like “lineups” where multiple pledges must rapidly consume shots, or “bottle exchanges” where pledges are gifted and pressured to immediately finish bottles of hard liquor. Pledges might also be forced to consume unknown or mixed substances, risking severe injury, alcohol poisoning, or even death. The Leonel Bermudez case at the University of Houston perfectly exemplifies this dangerous pattern, with allegations of forced consumption leading to life-threatening medical conditions.

• Physical Hazing: Despite being illegal, physical hazing persists. It can range from beatings and paddling—sometimes disguised as “discipline”—to extreme calisthenics, grueling “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond typical athletic conditioning. Beyond active assault, physical hazing includes sleep deprivation, food and water deprivation, and exposure to extreme cold or heat, or dangerous environments. These activities are often justified as “character building” or “toughening up,” but they are designed to break pledges down emotionally and physically. For instance, in the Bermudez case, pledges were allegedly forced into grueling physical workouts at Yellowstone Boulevard Park, including over 100 push-ups and 500 squats, designed to push human limits and degrade.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This category involves activities designed to demean and embarrass, often with a sexual component. Examples include forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts, wearing degrading costumes, or being put in compromising positions like “roasted pig.” These acts can also carry racist, homophobic, or sexist overtones, using slurs or forcing individuals to role-play degrading stereotypes. Such actions inflict deep psychological wounds and can leave lasting trauma. In some cases, hazing involves forcing pledges to lie in vomit-soaked grass, a deeply humiliating and unsanitary act.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked, psychological hazing can be as damaging as physical abuse. It includes verbal abuse, threats, isolation, and constant intimidation. Pledges may be manipulated into confessing personal information or subjected to public shaming in meetings or on social media. This type of hazing aims to control behavior and thought processes, fostering an environment of fear and anxiety. The pledge fanny pack rule in the Bermudez case, requiring pledges to carry degrading items, is a clear example of psychological humiliation.

• Digital/Online Hazing: With the pervasive use of technology, hazing has moved into the digital realm. This includes group chat dares, online “challenges,” and public humiliation via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Discord. Pledges may be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to respond instantly to messages at all hours, contributing to sleep deprivation and anxiety. Many hazing incidents today involve instructions and surveillance communicated through group chats.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

The stereotype often confines hazing to “frat boys,” but the reality is far broader. Hazing is deeply ingrained in various student organizations across college campuses throughout Texas, including those frequented by Dickens County students:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This remains the most visible setting for hazing, encompassing Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek-letter organizations. The competitive nature of Greek life and the desire for exclusivity often fuel dangerous traditions.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Organizations with hierarchical structures, particularly those mimicking military academies, can be fertile ground for hazing. “Tradition” is often invoked to justify physically demanding or psychologically grueling initiations. The recent lawsuit against Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets highlights this particular risk.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports, hazing can be a severe problem. It’s frequently rationalized as “team bonding” or “toughening up” new recruits, as seen in the Northwestern University scandal.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly benign groups like marching bands, dance teams, and theater troops can fall victim to hazing, with rituals designed to “earn” a spot in the ensemble.
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs: Organizations built around campus spirit or long-standing traditions, like the Texas Cowboys at UT Austin, can also engage in hazing under the guise of upholding legacy.
• Some Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: While less common, any group with an initiation process can develop hazing practices.

The common threads that keep these practices alive, even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal, are potent social forces: the desire for social status, the pressure to conform to deeply ingrained traditions, and an enforced code of secrecy that protects perpetrators and prolongs the cycle of abuse.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Dickens County, understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing in Texas is crucial. Our state has specific laws designed to combat this harmful practice, and federal regulations add another layer of accountability for educational institutions.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Under Texas law (which governs cases in Dickens County and across the state), hazing is explicitly prohibited. The Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F, defines hazing broadly to include any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, against a student. This act must:

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

This definition clarifies that if someone makes you do something that is dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or maintain membership in a group (including fraternities, sororities, teams, or clubs), and they either intended to do it or were reckless about the risks involved, that constitutes hazing under Texas law.

Crucially, intent is not about malice; “reckless” is enough. This means if a group knew or should have known that an activity carried significant risks but proceeded anyway, it could be deemed hazing. Also, a key provision in Texas law explicitly states that a student’s “consent” is not a defense. Even if the victim agreed to participate, it’s still illegal hazing if it fits the statutory definition, recognizing that power imbalances and peer pressure negate true voluntary consent.

Texas Hazing Penalties:

• Criminal Penalties:

  • Hazing is typically a Class B misdemeanor. This can result in a fine of up to $2,000 and/or confinement in county jail for up to 180 days.
  • If the hazing causes bodily injury, it becomes a Class A misdemeanor (up to a $4,000 fine and/or up to one year in jail).
  • If it causes serious bodily injury or death, hazing is upgraded to a state jail felony (punishable by confinement in a state jail for 180 days to two years, and a fine of up to $10,000).
  • Individuals who fail to report hazing (if they are a student, faculty member, or peace officer and knew about it) can also face misdemeanor charges. Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

• Organizational Liability: Beyond individual penalties, organizations can also be held criminally responsible. An organization may face prosecution if it authorized or encouraged the hazing, or if an officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it. Penalties for organizations can include fines of up to $10,000 per violation, and universities can revoke recognition or ban the organization from campus.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

The legal system approaches hazing from two distinct angles:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (represented by a prosecutor) and aim to punish individuals or organizations for illegal acts. In hazing, criminal charges might include hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or even manslaughter in cases involving death. The focus is on enforcing laws and deterring future criminal behavior.

• Civil Cases: These are brought by the victims or their surviving families against those responsible. The primary goal of a civil lawsuit is to obtain monetary compensation for damages suffered and to hold parties accountable. Civil claims often involve allegations of negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring or supervision, premises liability, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Crucially, a civil case can proceed even if criminal charges are not filed or do not result in a conviction.

Both criminal and civil actions can occur simultaneously, offering different avenues for justice and accountability.

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

Beyond state laws, federal regulations also impose responsibilities on colleges and universities, adding another layer of protection for students, including those from Dickens County:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation requires institutions that receive federal funding to be more transparent about hazing incidents. By approximately 2026, colleges must publicly report all hazing violations, strengthen hazing education, and implement prevention programs. This nationwide mandate aims to provide families with critical information and push colleges towards proactive solutions.

• Title IX / Clery Act:

  • Title IX prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a sexually hostile environment, Title IX obligations are triggered, requiring the university to investigate and respond.
  • The Clery Act mandates that colleges disclose campus crime statistics and security policies. Hazing incidents that involve assault, alcohol abuse, drug violations, or other reportable crimes often fall under Clery reporting requirements.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining who is legally responsible for hazing injuries or death is complex, but several parties can be held accountable:

• Individual Students: Those who actively planned, carried out, supplied alcohol, or participated in the hazing acts can be sued. This includes leaders, “pledgemasters,” and even passive participants who enabled the abuse.
• Local Chapter / Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself can be held liable, especially if it’s a legal entity.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters, which sets policies, collects dues, and often has oversight over local chapters, can be sued. Liability often hinges on whether the national organization knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing (at that chapter or others) and failed to take adequate action.
• University or Governing Board: The college or university, as well as its board of regents or trustees, may be liable. Claims against institutions often focus on negligence, such as failure to supervise, failure to enforce policies, ignoring prior warnings, or displaying deliberate indifference to a known hazing culture. For public institutions in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin), sovereign immunity presents a hurdle, but exceptions for gross negligence or Title IX violations can be critical.
• Third Parties: This can include landlords or property owners of off-campus venues where hazing occurred, bars or individuals who unlawfully provided alcohol (under “dram shop” laws), or even event organizers and security companies who failed in their duty of care.

Every case is unique, and the specific facts determine which parties may be held liable. An experienced attorney can explore all potential avenues for accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragic incidents making national headlines underscore critical patterns in hazing and provide powerful precedents for legal action in Texas courts, including for families in Dickens County. These foundational cases highlight the grave risks, expose institutional failures, and demonstrate the potential for significant legal accountability.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The vast majority of hazing-related deaths are attributed to extreme, forced alcohol consumption, often during “pledge events” or initiation rituals.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In one of the most publicized hazing deaths, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after falling repeatedly during a “bid acceptance” night. He was forced to rapidly consume large quantities of alcohol, then left unsupervised. Security camera footage detailed a horrific 12-hour ordeal where fraternity brothers delayed calling for help while Piazza suffered severe brain injuries. Multiple brothers faced criminal charges, and Piazza’s family pursued civil litigation, which resulted in significant, confidential settlements. His death spurred Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law, one of the toughest in the nation. This case tragically illustrated how extreme intoxication, a callous delay in calling 911, and a pervasive culture of silence can be legally devastating.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” ritual. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to consume them quickly. His death led to criminal charges against multiple fraternity members and prompted Florida State University to temporarily suspend all Greek life. The incident also intensified anti-hazing efforts across Florida. Coffey’s death, like many others, tragically reinforces how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster.

• Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, died with a blood-alcohol level of 0.495% after a brutal “Bible study” hazing. He was forced to drink if he answered questions incorrectly. This tragedy led to criminal convictions, including one for negligent homicide against a fraternity member, and was instrumental in the passage of Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute. This case demonstrated that legislative change often follows public outrage fueled by clear, undeniable proof of hazing.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, died in an alcohol-related hazing incident at a “Big/Little” event, where he was allegedly forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol. The incident resulted in multiple criminal convictions for hazing-related charges against fraternity members. In a significant civil outcome, his family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with approximately $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national and $3 million from Bowling Green State University. This case is a powerful testament that universities and national fraternities can face substantial financial and reputational consequences for hazing.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical hazing and degrading rituals also lead to serious injuries and fatalities.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng died during a fraternity retreat in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. Blindfolded and carrying a heavy backpack, he was repeatedly tackled in a “glass ceiling” ritual designed to test endurance. Fraternity members delayed calling 911 for an hour, attempting to cover up the incident. This tragedy resulted in criminal convictions for multiple members, and the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years. This landmark case illustrates that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or worse than on-campus parties, and that national organizations are not immune from serious sanctions and criminal liability for their chapters’ actions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it often permeates collegiate athletic programs.

• Northwestern University Football Scandal (2023–2025): A massive scandal unfolded at Northwestern when former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program spanning multiple years. The allegations included forced nude practices and sexually explicit rituals. Multiple players filed lawsuits against the university and coaching staff. The head coach, Pat Fitzgerald, was fired and later reached a confidential settlement in a wrongful-termination suit. This case powerfully demonstrates that hazing is not limited to Greek life, and major, high-profile athletic programs can harbor systemic abuse, raising critical questions about institutional oversight.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies send a clear message to families in Dickens County and across Texas:

• Common Threads of Danger: The recurring patterns are chillingly consistent: forced drinking, humiliation, physical violence, a pervasive culture of secrecy, and a delayed or denied response to medical emergencies.
• Accountability in Litigation: While these incidents are heartbreaking, they have paved the way for stronger legal responses. Reforms, significant civil settlements, and even criminal convictions now follow such tragedies—often, unfortunately, only after litigation forces accountability.
• Precedent for Justice: These national lessons directly inform the legal strategies for Texas families facing hazing at universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor. They establish precedents for proving institutional knowledge, foreseeability, and negligence, allowing experienced law firms like Attorney911 to build strong cases for accountability.

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

For Dickens County residents, children often matriculate to one of Texas’s major universities. While Midland College in the heart of Dickens County provides valuable local education, families here often look to the larger state institutions for four-year degrees. Many Dickens County families send their children to Texas Tech in Lubbock, The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University in College Station, or other major schools. Hazing is a pervasive issue across all of these campuses. Attorney911 is deeply familiar with the challenges and legal nuances at these key Texas universities. We will explore each below, detailing their cultures, policies, past incidents, and the legal pathways available to affected families.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston is a particularly critical focus for Attorney911, as it is the very campus where the high-profile Leonel Bermudez hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the university is unfolding.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston, located in the sprawling metropolis of Houston, serves over 47,000 students, making it one of the largest and most diverse universities in Texas. Its campus reflects the vibrant, urban energy of the city, attracting students from across the state, including many from rural communities like Dickens County who seek a dynamic city environment. UH boasts a diverse and active Greek life, comprising a mix of Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural fraternities and sororities. Beyond Greek life, the university supports a vast array of student organizations, including cultural groups, sports clubs, and academic societies, all of which contribute to Houston’s rich collegiate tapestry.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains clear and strict anti-hazing policies, explicitly prohibiting hazing both on and off campus. Their policy broadly defines hazing to cover any act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation with an organization. This includes, but is not limited to, forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and activities that cause mental distress, embarrassment, or humiliation. UH encourages reporting through various channels, including the Dean of Students office, the Student Conduct office, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). The university also provides an online reporting form and an anonymous hotline for students or concerned parties to come forward.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

The University of Houston has a history of hazing incidents that highlight the ongoing challenges even with clear policies in place:

• Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston / Pi Kappa Phi ($10M Lawsuit, 2025): This is Attorney911’s landmark case, making UH a central focus of our firm’s hazing litigation strategy. Leonel Bermudez, a transfer student and pledge of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter, suffered acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis following alleged severe hazing in late 2025. The lawsuit, filed by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, seeks over $10 million from the University of Houston, its Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, the housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders/members. Allegations include:

  • Pledges forced to carry a humiliating “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms and sex toys.
  • Forced physical activities, including over 100 push-ups and 500 squats, leaving Bermudez unable to stand.
  • Exposure to cold weather in underwear.
  • Being sprayed with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” with threats of actual waterboarding.
  • Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting.
  • Lying in vomit-soaked grass.
  • Hazing events at the Pi Kappa Phi chapter house, a former member’s residence, and Yellowstone Boulevard Park in Houston.
  • Bermudez developed brown urine, a classic sign of rhabdomyolysis, leading to a four-day hospitalization and ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.
  • Pi Kappa Phi national suspended the Beta Nu chapter on November 6, 2025, and the chapter voted to surrender its charter on November 14, just days before the lawsuit was filed. UH called the conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary action up to expulsion. This case underscores the devastating physical and psychological toll of hazing, and Attorney911’s commitment to holding all responsible parties accountable. Read more about this case from Click2Houston: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/ and ABC13: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/ and Hoodline: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2016): Prior to the Bermudez case, PIKE was involved in another hazing incident at UH. Pledges were allegedly subjected to sleep deprivation, minimal food and water, and physical games that led to one student suffering a lacerated spleen. The chapter was temporarily suspended by the university and faced misdemeanor hazing charges. This earlier event highlights a pattern of dangerous behavior within Greek life at UH and the university’s prior knowledge of such risks.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

A hazing case originating at UH involves several jurisdictional considerations due to its location in Houston. Criminal investigations would involve either the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) or the Houston Police Department (HPD), depending on where the alleged hazing occurred (on-campus vs. off-campus). Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in state district courts within Harris County, which has jurisdiction over the university and the city.

Potential defendants often include the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially the University of Houston itself, its Board of Regents, and any property owners involved. Because of Attorney911’s deep roots in Houston and the ongoing Bermudez case, our firm has invaluable insight into the particular dynamics of hazing litigation within the Harris County court system.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For students at the University of Houston, or parents in Dickens County whose children attend UH, we recommend a proactive approach:

• Report Internally if Safe: If you believe hazing is occurring, report it to the UH Dean of Students office or through their anonymous reporting systems.
• Prioritize Evidence Collection: Document everything. Screenshot all group chat messages, take photos of injuries and locations, and save any relevant emails. This is critical as digital evidence can disappear quickly.
• Seek Immediate Legal Counsel: Contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases, even if you’re uncertain about pursuing a full lawsuit. An attorney can help uncover prior UH discipline, preserve critical evidence through legal channels, and advise on criminal vs. civil options.
• Understand Your Rights: Be aware of UH’s hazing policies and the protections offered to reporters under Texas law. Never feel pressured to keep quiet.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, a cornerstone institution for many Dickens County families, presents a unique and often complex hazing landscape due to its strong military traditions and large Greek life.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M, located in College Station, is deeply defined by its traditions, chief among them being the Corps of Cadets—the largest uniformed student body outside the federal service academies. For many Dickens County students, A&M represents a blend of rich history, academic rigor, and a deeply ingrained culture of loyalty and respect. Beyond the Corps, A&M boasts a significant Greek life presence with over 60 fraternities and sororities, numerous student organizations, and deeply cherished “Aggie Spirit” traditions. This environment, while fostering strong bonds, also creates conditions where hazing can become embedded under the guise of tradition or “earning your place.”

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M unequivocally prohibits hazing, adhering to Texas state law. Its student rulebook defines hazing broadly, encompassing any intentional or reckless act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. This includes forced consumption, physical mistreatment, undue mental stress, or any activity that humiliates or degrades. Reporting channels include the Department of Student Life, the Office of the Commandant (for Corps-related incidents), and the University Police Department (UPD). A&M also maintains an anonymous reporting system, including a dedicated hazing hotline and online forms.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced multiple hazing allegations and incidents across both its Greek life and Corps of Cadets:

• Corps of Cadets Hazing Lawsuit (2023): A lawsuit filed in 2023 detailed graphic allegations of hazing within the Corps. A former cadet alleged severe and degrading treatment, including simulated sexual acts, being bound in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth, forced ingestion of harmful substances, and experiencing physical and psychological abuse. The lawsuit claimed these acts were part of a systemic pattern of hazing within the Corps. While A&M stated it addressed the matter through its internal conduct processes, the lawsuit sought substantial damages and exposed a dark undercurrent of abuse beneath the celebrated traditions.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit (2021): Two pledges of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter at Texas A&M filed a lawsuit alleging severe physical hazing. They claimed fraternity members poured various substances, including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, on them during strenuous activities. This resulted in severe chemical burns that required emergency medical treatment and skin graft surgeries. The university suspended the chapter, and the lawsuit sought over $1 million in damages, highlighting the dangers of physical and chemical hazing disguised as initiation.
• Aggie Bonfire Collapse (1999): While not traditional hazing, the tragic collapse of the Aggie Bonfire, a long-standing student-led tradition, killed 12 and injured 27. This event, driven by student-engineered construction and intense peer pressure, raised profound questions about student-led high-risk activities, institutional oversight, and the blurred lines between tradition and safety. Multiple lawsuits against university officials resulted in settlements exceeding $6 million in total, and the official Bonfire tradition was ultimately ended on campus.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases at Texas A&M may involve investigations by the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) or local law enforcement in Bryan/College Station, depending on the incident’s location. Civil lawsuits would typically be heard in state district courts in Brazos County. Given College Station’s significant student population from across Texas, including potential students from Dickens County, these local legal actions are highly relevant. Defendants could include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization (especially if it’s a Greek chapter), individual Corps leaders, and potentially the university itself, its System Office, or the Board of Regents. The involvement of the Corps of Cadets adds a distinct dimension, as it operates under a separate command structure within the university.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

For Dickens County families and students at Texas A&M:

• Understand Corps and Greek Norms: Be aware that “tradition” is deeply valued. Learn to distinguish between healthy traditions and hazing disguised as tradition.
• Document Allegations Thoroughly: Given the strong culture, documenting any hazing is paramount. Digital evidence, photos of injuries, and detailed notes are vital.
• Utilize Reporting Channels Cautiously: Texas A&M’s anonymous reporting options can be useful, but for severe incidents, direct reporting to UPD or the Department of Student Life is necessary.
• Seek External Legal Advice Promptly: Due to the university’s size and deeply ingrained culture, independent legal counsel from firms like Attorney911 can offer unbiased guidance and advocate forcefully for your rights, particularly against powerful institutional defendants like A&M.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution and a popular choice for many Dickens County high school graduates, has a vibrant Greek life and numerous student organizations that are not immune to hazing.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

As the largest university in Texas, the University of Texas at Austin is renowned for its academic prowess, competitive culture, and iconic traditions like “Hook ’em Horns.” The campus, located in the state capital, attracts students from every corner of Texas, including Dickens County, and beyond. Its Greek system is massive and influential, with hundreds of fraternities and sororities. Beyond Greek life, UT is home to a myriad of spirit groups, athletic teams, and prestigious academic clubs, all contributing to a dynamic, high-pressure environment that, in some instances, can foster hazing.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Texas at Austin explicitly states that hazing is “abhorrent and will not be tolerated.” Its Comprehensive Hazing Policy aligns with Texas state law, broadly prohibiting any intentional, knowing, or reckless action that endangers physical or mental health for the purpose of initiation or membership in an organization. UT-Austin is notable for its transparency, publicly listing hazing violations, investigations, and disciplinary actions taken against student organizations on its website (hazing.utexas.edu). Reporting channels include the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD), and various anonymous online forms and hotlines.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s transparency page provides a stark look at ongoing hazing issues:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): This chapter was found responsible for hazing after new members were directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. The organization faced disciplinary actions that included probation and a requirement to implement new hazing-prevention education. This specific incident demonstrates the university’s attempt to intervene, but also illustrates that “smokings” and forced consumption remain prevalent.
• Texas Cowboys (1995 & 2018): This storied spirit organization, known for its traditions, faced controversy and sanctions following the alcohol-related drowning death of Gabriel Higgins during an initiation event in 1995. Decades later, in 2018, the Texas Cowboys were again implicated in hazing after a new member died in a distracted driving accident, with allegations of sleep deprivation and other hazing activities. UT administrators acknowledged hazing had occurred within the group, leading to the organization’s suspension. The recurring incidents with this group highlight the tenacious nature of hazing embedded in “tradition.”
• Texas Wranglers (Various Incidents): Multiple reports detail sanctions against the Texas Wranglers for hazing violations, including forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and other punishment-based practices designed to “earn” membership. These ongoing issues, often listed on UT’s public hazing log, show that the problem extends beyond Greek life to other influential student groups.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2006) and Lambda Phi Epsilon (2005): These fraternities have faced serious hazing allegations, including alcohol-related deaths, illustrating that Greek life at UT has experienced the same devastating outcomes seen at campuses nationwide.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing investigations at UT Austin often involve UTPD for criminal aspects, or the Austin Police Department (APD) if the incident occurred off-campus within city limits. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in state district courts in Travis County, where Austin is located. Given UT’s status as a public university, plaintiffs suing the institution itself would navigate sovereign immunity, though exceptions for gross negligence, specific state law waivers, or Title IX violations might apply. Defendants could include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, property owners, and university personnel or the Board of Regents.

UT’s public hazing log is a powerful tool for litigation; prior violations listed publicly can serve as compelling evidence of foreseeability and the university’s prior knowledge of an organization’s problematic history, strengthening claims of negligence.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

For Dickens County families and students at UT Austin:

• Review UT’s Public Hazing Log: Before joining any organization, check hazing.utexas.edu for a group’s history of violations. This is a vital preventative step.
• Understand Reporting Avenues: Know how to report to the Dean of Students, UTPD, or the Title IX office. Be aware of the anonymous options.
• Prioritize Evidence: Given the digital nature of modern hazing, preserving group chat messages, photos, and videos is crucial. UT’s transparency with its reporting log underscores the importance of concrete evidence.
• Seek Knowledgeable Legal Counsel: An attorney with experience in Travis County courts and a deep understanding of UT’s policies and internal documents can be instrumental. They can help navigate the university’s reporting system while simultaneously pursuing civil justice.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, known for its picturesque campus and strong Greek presence, is frequently attended by students from affluent backgrounds, including some from Dickens County and its surrounding regions.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Southern Methodist University, a private institution nestled in a residential area of Dallas, is distinguished by its stunning architecture, rigorous academics, and a vibrant social scene deeply intertwined with its Greek life. Located in a major metropolitan area accessible to many Dickens County families, SMU attracts a student body that values tradition and community. With a significant percentage of its undergraduates participating in fraternities and sororities, Greek life often plays a central role in the social and extracurricular experience. This environment, while fostering camaraderie, can also harbor hazing practices, often veiled by exclusivity and a desire to uphold perceived “traditions.”

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains clear anti-hazing policies that prohibit any action that causes physical or mental harm, humiliation, or coercion related to initiation or membership. As a private university, SMU’s policies and enforcement are governed by its own internal regulations, though they align with state and federal laws. SMU is a participant in the anonymous reporting system “Real Response” alongside its internal channels, which include the Office of Student Conduct and University Police. The university’s website explicitly states its “zero-tolerance” policy on hazing and encourages reporting without fear of retaliation.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

SMU has encountered hazing incidents within its Greek system, leading to disciplinary actions:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): This fraternity faced a significant suspension after allegations surfaced that new members were subjected to paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and severe sleep deprivation. The chapter was suspended, preventing it from recruiting new members or holding events, and its return to campus life was conditional and staggered until around 2021.
• Other Greek Organizations: Over the years, SMU has disciplined various fraternities and sororities for hazing-related violations, including forced servitude, physical tasks, and alcohol misuse. While a private university may not publicly list every incident with the same transparency as some public institutions, these events are documented internally and inform future policy enforcement.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing investigations at SMU would primarily involve the SMU Police Department for on-campus incidents, or the Dallas Police Department for off-campus events. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in state district courts in Dallas County. As a private university, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it a more direct target for civil litigation than public institutions. This distinction can simplify the legal strategy for plaintiffs seeking accountability. Defendants could include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and the university itself.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

For Dickens County families and students at SMU:

• Understand Private University Dynamics: Be aware that while SMU boasts strong anti-hazing policies, the internal disciplinary process of a private university is less transparent than public institutions, making proactive evidence collection even more essential.
• Utilize Anonymous Reporting Tools: SMU’s participation in “Real Response” offers an avenue for reporting that can, in some cases, trigger internal investigations without immediate public exposure of the reporter.
• Recognize Subtle Pressures: Due to the often-affluent background of students, hazing at SMU can sometimes involve subtler forms of psychological manipulation or social exclusion, making it harder to identify but no less harmful.
• Consult Legal Counsel Early: An attorney with experience navigating hazing claims against private universities can help compel discovery from internal university and fraternity files that might not otherwise be publicly accessible, building a robust case for accountability in Dallas County courts.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, with its Baptist heritage and strong emphasis on community, is another major Texas school where students from Dickens County often enroll. Its approach to student conduct, including hazing, is shaped by its private, religious identity and past institutional challenges.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University, located in Waco, offers a distinctive collegiate experience defined by its Baptist Christian identity, strong academic programs, and deeply rooted traditions. For Dickens County families who value faith-based education, Baylor is a prominent choice. The university prides itself on fostering a close-knit community, which includes a significant Greek life presence and numerous other student organizations, such as athletic teams and spirit groups. However, even within this supportive environment, hazing can occur, often clashing directly with the university’s stated values.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University maintains a “zero-tolerance” policy towards hazing, explicitly prohibiting any activity that causes or is likely to cause physical or mental harm or suffering for initiation or membership. As a private institution, Baylor’s internal disciplinary processes are robust, and it strictly adheres to Texas state anti-hazing laws. The university emphasizes its commitment to student safety, particularly in the wake of past scandals related to Title IX and sexual assault allegations within its athletic programs. Reporting channels include the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD), the Dean of Students Office, and accessible online reporting forms.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor has faced scrutiny over student conduct, including hazing, within its Greek and athletic communities:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): A significant hazing scandal impacted the Baylor baseball team just before the 2020 season. Following an investigation, 14 baseball players were suspended due to their involvement in hazing activities. These suspensions were staggered over the early part of the season, highlighting not only the university’s willingness to act but also the pervasiveness of hazing even in high-profile athletic programs.
• Baylor Chamber of Commerce Hazing (1967): In a tragic incident from 1967, John E. Clifton died during an initiation into the Baylor Chamber of Commerce, a prominent campus social club. Allegedly, Clifton was forced to consume a foul concoction and laxatives as part of the ritual. While authorities at the time ruled it an “accident,” and the then-university president initially denied it was hazing, the incident eventually led to Baylor officially banning “physical” hazing, acknowledging the severe risks. This historical case provides a stark reminder of long-standing hazing issues.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing incidents at Baylor would typically be investigated by the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) for on-campus occurrences, or the Waco Police Department for off-campus events in Waco. Civil lawsuits would generally be filed in state district courts within McLennan County. As a private university, Baylor, like SMU, does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it a potential defendant in negligence claims. This makes the path to civil accountability more direct than with state-funded Texas institutions. Defendants could include individual students, local chapters, national organizations, and the university itself, particularly given Baylor’s history of navigating institutional oversight challenges.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

For Dickens County families and students at Baylor:

• Prioritize Safety Above Tradition: While Baylor cherishes its traditions, students and parents must distinguish between harmless customs and dangerous hazing.
• Be Aware of Institutional Culture: Baylor’s past challenges with oversight (e.g., related to Title IX) mean that reports of hazing, particularly those involving physical or sexual abuse, should be taken extremely seriously.
• Document and Report Internally: Utilize BUPD or the Dean of Students office. Ensure your report clearly states “hazing” and provides detailed evidence.
• Seek External Legal Review: Given Baylor’s experience with high-stakes litigation, an attorney familiar with private university liability can provide invaluable guidance. They can help navigate Baylor’s internal processes and advise on the most effective legal strategies to pursue accountability in McLennan County courts.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

For Dickens County families, understanding the Greek system, particularly its national structures and collective history, is crucial when evaluating hazing risks at Texas universities. Local chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor don’t exist in isolation; they are part of larger national organizations, many of which carry a documented history of hazing.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

When a student from Dickens County pledges a fraternity or sorority at a Texas university, they technically join a local chapter, but they also become part of a vast national organization. These national headquarters often command significant resources, set broad policies, and exert some level of oversight over their local chapters. Critically:

• Extensive Anti-Hazing Policies: Nearly every national fraternity and sorority has thick anti-hazing manuals and risk management policies. They exist precisely because these organizations have faced tragic deaths and catastrophic injuries in the past. These policies are not just formalities; they are acknowledgments of known dangers.
• Pattern of Behavior: National organizations know the common scripts: forced drinking nights, physically abusive traditions, degrading rituals, and codes of silence. When a local chapter in Texas repeats actions that have caused harm at another chapter in another state, it strengthens the argument of foreseeability and prior knowledge against the national organization. This is a powerful legal leverage point.

Clarifying this connection is essential. When a Texas chapter replicates a harmful tradition that has led to injury or death elsewhere, it makes it harder for the national body to claim ignorance. This can significantly impact settlement negotiations, insurance coverage disputes, and the potential for punitive damages in civil litigation.

6.2 Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

While it’s impossible to list every single chapter at every Texas university, several national fraternities and sororities with chapters prevalent at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor have faced significant scrutiny due to hazing. Understanding their national patterns is key for any Dickens County family.

Here are some examples of major fraternities whose national organizations have documented hazing incidents and pattern evidence from other campuses that could be relevant in Texas:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity has faced immense scrutiny. Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha was involved in the Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green State University in 2021, where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume a bottle of liquor. This case resulted in criminal convictions and a $10 million settlement. Another prominent case involved David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University in 2012, who died from alcohol poisoning, leading to a $14 million settlement. These patterns demonstrate that national Pike has a history of alcohol-related hazing.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Often called “America’s deadliest fraternity” by some media outlets, SAE has a troubling history. Its national organization eliminated pledging in 2014 due to numerous deaths. Notable incidents include a pledge suffering a traumatic brain injury at the University of Alabama (lawsuit filed in 2023), and serious chemical burns to pledges at Texas A&M University (2021) who were allegedly covered in industrial cleaner and other substances. An active lawsuit against an SAE chapter at the University of Texas at Austin in 2024 alleges assault against an exchange student, further underscoring ongoing issues.
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): This fraternity was at the center of the Max Gruver death at Louisiana State University in 2017, where a pledge died from alcohol toxicity during a “Bible study” drinking game. The case led to criminal convictions and Louisiana’s felony hazing statute, the Max Gruver Act.
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): This national fraternity has faced multiple serious incidents, including the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University in 2017 due to alcohol poisoning during “Big Brother Night.” The Leonel Bermudez lawsuit at the University of Houston (2025), actively litigated by Attorney911, similarly alleges severe alcohol and physical hazing, resulting in permanent injury.
• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI): FIJI became a national focus after Danny Santulli sustained severe, permanent brain damage at the University of Missouri in 2021 following forced excessive alcohol consumption. This catastrophic injury led to multiple charges and multi-million-dollar settlements.
• Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ): This historically Black fraternity has faced hazing allegations, including a 2023 federal lawsuit by a former University of Southern Mississippi student alleging repeated beatings with a wooden paddle during “Hell Night” that required emergency surgery.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Kappa Sigma was sued for $12.6 million following the 2001 drowning death of Chad Meredith at the University of Miami, in an alcohol-related incident. In Texas, there have been allegations of severe injuries, including rhabdomyolysis, from physical hazing at Texas A&M (2023, ongoing litigation).
• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): A Sigma Chi chapter at the College of Charleston recently faced over $10 million in damages in 2024 for severe physical beatings, forced substance consumption, and psychological torment. Another chapter in Texas (at UT Arlington in 2020) faced a lawsuit after a pledge was hospitalized for alcohol poisoning.

Disclaimer: When discussing any specific organization in this context, Attorney911 is NOT alleging that any specific Texas chapter of these national organizations has engaged in hazing, nor are we making claims about individuals or chapters that have not been publicly documented. Our discussion of national organization histories is for educational purposes, to illustrate patterns of behavior that have led to legal actions at other institutions. Families should research any group their child considers joining, as hazing can occur in any organization.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The documented national histories of these organizations are not mere anecdotes; they are critical in building a legal case for a Dickens County family.

• Foreseeability: If a national fraternity has faced multiple lawsuits or disciplinary actions for alcohol-related hazing, it is much harder for them to claim that a similar incident at a Texas chapter was “unforeseeable.” They had prior notice of the risk.
• Failure to Enforce: Many national organizations point to their robust anti-hazing policies as proof they are not responsible. However, if those policies are consistently violated across chapters, and the national body has a history of weak enforcement, it can be argued they failed in their duty to adequately supervise and control their local chapters.
• Insurance Implications: Awareness of past incidents and a pattern of behavior can influence how insurance companies evaluate claims, potentially strengthening a plaintiff’s position to obtain significant coverage.

Ultimately, understanding this broader context is vital. An experienced hazing attorney knows how to use these national patterns to strengthen a case against a local chapter, its national organization, and potentially the university, demanding accountability for a system that often prioritizes secrecy and tradition over student safety.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Experiencing hazing can be a traumatic and confusing time for students and families in Dickens County. When considering legal action, the path forward involves methodical evidence collection, a clear understanding of potential damages, and a strategic approach to litigation. The Manginello Law Firm brings decades of complex litigation experience to bear on these cases, ensuring no stone is left unturned.

7.1 Evidence: The Foundation of Every Claim

In hazing cases, evidence is paramount. It allows us to reconstruct events, identify responsible parties, and prove the harm caused. Given the secretive nature of hazing, gathering and preserving evidence quickly is critical. Attorney911 strongly advises families to consult our video on using your cellphone to document a legal case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs.

• Digital Communications: In 2025, group chats and direct messages are often the most crucial pieces of evidence. Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Snapchat, and Instagram DMs are commonly used by organizations to plan, instruct, and document hazing. We look for:

  • Instructions given to pledges.
  • Discussions among members about hazing activities.
  • Sharing of photos or videos.
  • Attempts to cover up or delete evidence.
    It’s vital to screenshot everything immediately, including timestamps and participant names, and preserve these in a secure location. Digital forensics can sometimes recover deleted messages, but original screenshots are invaluable.

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is powerful. This includes:

  • Content filmed by members during hazing events, including “smokings,” forced consumption, or humiliating acts.
  • Footage shared in private group chats or on social media (even if since deleted).
  • Security camera or doorbell camera footage from houses or event venues, which can sometimes capture arrivals, departures, or suspicious activity.
  • Photos of injuries taken from multiple angles, with dates, times, and a clear reference (like a coin) for scale. These should be taken immediately and then over several days to document progression.

• Internal Organization Documents: Through legal discovery, we can compel organizations to provide:

  • Pledge manuals or new member education plans.
  • Chapter by-laws and national risk management policies.
  • Internal communications (emails, texts) among officers discussing the “new member process.”
  • Event planning documents, guest lists, and financial records related to events.

• University Records: Colleges and universities maintain records that can be critical. This might include:

  • Prior conduct files, records of probation, suspension, or other disciplinary actions against the organization or individuals.
  • Incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices.
  • Clery Act reports, which outline campus crime statistics.
  • Emails or internal communications among administrators regarding the organization or specific hazing allegations.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the extent of the harm suffered:

  • Emergency room reports, ambulance records, and hospitalization notes.
  • Toxicology reports, blood alcohol levels, and specialized tests (e.g., for rhabdomyolysis or organ damage).
  • Records of ongoing treatment, physical therapy, and any necessary surgeries.
  • Psychological evaluations that diagnose conditions like PTSD, depression, or anxiety resulting from the hazing.

• Witness Testimony: Accounts from individuals who saw or participated in the hazing are often indispensable. This includes:

  • Other pledges or new members.
  • Current or former members of the organization.
  • Roommates, friends, or Resident Assistants (RAs) who noticed changes in behavior or witnessed specific events.
  • Bystanders or venue staff.
  • Emergency responders who arrived at the scene.

7.2 Damages: What Can Be Recovered

A successful hazing lawsuit aims to obtain compensation for the wide range of harm suffered by victims and their families. This compensation typically falls into several categories:

• Economic Damages: These are quantifiable financial losses.

  • Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs, from immediate emergency room visits and ambulance transport to long-term care for severe injuries (e.g., brain damage, organ damage), ongoing therapies, medications, and specialized medical equipment. For catastrophic injuries, a “life care plan” calculates lifetime expenses.
  • Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This includes lost wages due to time off work (for the victim or a parent acting as caregiver). It also covers tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships, and the financial impact of delayed graduation or a permanently reduced earning capacity if the hazing resulted in long-term disability or psychological impairment.
  • Other Economic Losses: This could include property damage sustained during hazing or relocation costs if the victim must transfer to another school due to the trauma.

• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for subjective, non-financial harms.

  • Physical Pain & Suffering: This covers the physical discomfort and agony from injuries, and any ongoing pain from permanent conditions.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: Hazing causes immense psychological trauma. This includes compensation for diagnosed conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, humiliation, loss of dignity, and the pervasive fear and shame associated with the experience. Medical and psychological evaluations are critical here.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: This compensates for the inability to participate in activities previously enjoyed, social withdrawal, damage to relationships, and the overall diminishment of the college experience.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): If hazing results in death, surviving family members (spouse, children, parents) can claim:

  • Funeral and Burial Costs: Direct expenses related to the victim’s passing.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Society: This accounts for the profound emotional loss experienced by the family.
  • Loss of Financial Support: If the deceased would have contributed financially to the family, expert economists can calculate this over their expected lifetime.
  • Grief and Emotional Suffering: Compensation for the deep grief and anguish endured by family members.

• Punitive Damages: In cases involving especially reckless, willful, or malicious conduct, punitive damages may be awarded. Their purpose is to punish the defendants for egregious behavior and deter similar actions in the future. In Texas, punitive damages are available but can be capped by statute, except in certain intentional tort cases. They are often sought when there is clear evidence that the defendants ignored prior warnings, actively covered up incidents, or acted with callous indifference to known risks—making them a powerful tool for accountability.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Pursuing a hazing lawsuit is complex because multiple parties may be involved, and each often has its own insurance.

• National fraternities and universities typically carry substantial insurance policies designed to cover various liabilities, including those arising from student conduct. However, their insurers often attempt to deny coverage by arguing that hazing, especially involving intentional acts or criminal behavior, is excluded under policy terms.
• Experienced hazing lawyers are adept at navigating these complex insurance disputes. They work to:
  • Identify all potential sources of insurance coverage, from the national organization’s general liability policies to the university’s umbrella coverage, and even the homeowner’s policies of individual students.
  • Argue that even if the hazing involved intentional acts, the negligent supervision or failure to enforce policies by the national body or university is itself a covered event.
  • Challenge ambiguous exclusion clauses and demand that insurers fulfill their duty to defend the insured party.

This intricate process requires specialized legal expertise to ensure that all avenues for compensation are explored effectively. The Manginello Law Firm, with Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge of insurance defense tactics, is uniquely positioned to maximize recovery for our clients.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

For Dickens County families caught in the turmoil of hazing, actionable advice can make all the difference. This section outlines practical steps for parents, students, and witnesses, providing immediate guidance. It also addresses common questions about hazing and the law in Texas.

8.1 For Parents: Navigating the Hazing Crisis

Your role as a parent is crucial, both in recognizing the signs of hazing and responding effectively to protect your child.

• Beware of Warning Signs of Hazing:

  • Unexplained Injuries: Look for bruises, cuts, or burns your child can’t adequately explain, or injuries dismissed as “accidents.”
  • Extreme Exhaustion: Observe sudden, pronounced fatigue or sleep deprivation, far beyond regular college stress.
  • Mood and Behavior Changes: Notice drastic shifts in mood, increased anxiety, irritability, withdrawal from family or old friends.
  • Secretive Behavior: Your child may become intensely private about their organization’s activities, using phrases like “I can’t talk about it” or “It’s a secret.”
  • Constant Phone Use & Fear of Missing Events: Obsessive monitoring of group chats, constant texts, and anxiety about missing “mandatory” events can indicate psychological coercion.

• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation with empathy and without judgment. Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priorities. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with your group?” or “Is there anything making you uncomfortable?” Reassure them you will support them no matter what.

• If Your Child is Hurt: Your first priority is medical care. Get them to an emergency room or doctor immediately. Then, begin documenting everything:

  • Take clear, dated photos of all injuries from multiple angles.
  • If your child is willing, screenshot group chats or texts related to the hazing.
  • Write down all details your child shares: who, what, when, where, and names of individuals involved.

• Dealing with the University: Every interaction should be carefully considered. Document every communication with university administrators. Ask specific questions about:

  • Any prior incidents or disciplinary actions involving the organization.
  • What steps the university took in response to those prior issues.
  • Their anti-hazing policies and enforcement history.

• 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 the situation or attempting a cover-up, it is time to consult with an experienced hazing attorney.

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

If you are a student from Dickens County or anywhere in Texas, facing pressure to participate in uncomfortable or dangerous activities, ask yourself:

• Is this “hazing” or “just tradition”? If you feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced; if you’re forced to drink or endure physical pain; if you’re told to keep activities secret from parents or university officials—it is hazing. True traditions don’t jeopardize your health or dignity.
• Why “consent” isn’t the end of the story: You might feel like you “agreed” to this. However, the law, and especially experienced hazing lawyers, recognize the immense power dynamics at play. The desire to belong, fear of exclusion, and peer pressure can mean your “consent” is not truly voluntary.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the absolute right to leave a hazing situation or withdraw from an organization at any time. If you feel unsafe, call 911 immediately. If you wish to exit, send an email or text (to document) to the group leadership stating you are resigning. Do NOT go to “one last meeting.” You can report hazing anonymously through campus hotlines or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE).
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Texas law and many university policies provide protection and limited amnesty for students who call for help in an emergency, even if they or others were using alcohol underage. Prioritize safety.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses: Coming Forward

If you are a former member or a witness to hazing, your testimony can be critical in preventing future harm and holding abusers accountable. We understand your fear of retaliation or involvement, but:

• Your Action Can Save Lives: Your information can provide crucial evidence that helps a victim’s family, prevents another tragedy, and forces institutional change.
• Seek Legal Advice: You may want to consult with your own attorney to understand your rights and potential exposures as a witness. While Attorney911 cannot represent both a victim and a witness in direct conflict, we can provide general guidance or referrals.
• Cooperation Can Be Empowering: For many, coming forward is a step towards healing and justice. Experienced lawyers can navigate your role, potentially minimizing negative legal consequences for you while maximizing the impact of your truthful testimony.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

In hazing cases, quick action and informed decisions are vital. Too often, families inadvertently make mistakes that compromise their ability to seek justice. Attorney911’s video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY reinforces these warnings.

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

   • Why it’s wrong: Attempts to hide evidence can be seen as obstruction of justice and severely undermine a legal claim. Crucial evidence of coercion and incident details is lost forever.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing or seemingly minor content. Take screenshots of all group chats, social media, and direct messages.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • Why it’s wrong: This immediately puts the organization on alert, prompting them to destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare legal defenses. You lose the element of surprise and further endanger your child.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in private. Once you have a clear picture, contact a lawyer before any direct confrontation.

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

   • Why it’s wrong: Universities often push families to sign internal agreements or waivers in exchange for a quick, low-value resolution. These forms can waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit for full compensation.
   • What to do instead: Never sign anything from the university or an organization without an experienced attorney reviewing it first.

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

   • Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys will screenshot every post. Inconsistencies or emotional outbursts on social media can be used to discredit your child’s testimony and waive certain legal protections.
   • What to do instead: Confine your documentation to private, secure channels. Let your lawyer manage all official communications and public statements.

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

   • Why it’s wrong: Once a hazing incident has occurred, any request for a “talk” from the organization is likely a tactic to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can harm a legal case.
   • What to do instead: If you are considering legal action, all communication from your child to the organization should cease and be handled by your attorney.

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

   • Why it’s wrong: University investigations are often slow, limited in scope, and primarily focused on student conduct policy violations, not civil liability or criminal charges. Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations continues to run.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence immediately and consult a lawyer. The university’s internal process is separate from pursuing civil justice.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Recorded statements, even seemingly innocent ones, can be used against you. Early settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with any insurance adjuster and state that all communication will go through your attorney.

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin benefit from sovereign immunity, which limits claims against the state. However, exceptions exist for gross negligence, specific state law waivers, or Title IX violations. Private universities like SMU and Baylor have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific; contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential, case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  Yes, hazing can be a felony. While it starts as a Class B misdemeanor, it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face misdemeanor charges for failing to report hazing.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes. Texas law explicitly states that a student’s consent is NOT a defense to hazing (Texas Education Code § 37.155). This recognizes that true voluntary consent is impossible under conditions of peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, in Texas, you have two years from the date of injury or death to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. However, exceptions like the “discovery rule” (when harm isn’t immediately apparent) or tolling for minors can alter this. Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to discuss the specific timeline for your situation. Learn more 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 hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities and sororities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, knowledge, and ability to foresee such incidents, regardless of where they occur. Many major hazing tragedies in the U.S. have taken place off-campus or at private residences, resulting in significant legal judgments.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  While civil lawsuits are public record, many hazing cases, if settled, often include confidentiality clauses. At Attorney911, we prioritize your family’s privacy interests while aggressively pursuing the accountability and compensation you deserve. We can discuss strategies for managing publicity.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in Dickens County faces the devastation of hazing, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need tenacious attorneys who understand the complex dynamics of college campuses, how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. The Manginello Law Firm, operating as Attorney911, brings unparalleled experience and strategic insight to hazing cases throughout Texas.

We are a Houston-based Texas personal injury firm with deep experience in serious injury, wrongful death, and institutional accountability cases. We understand that hazing at Texas universities impacts families in Dickens County and across the state, and we are prepared to bring our expertise to every corner of Texas.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases

Our firm’s unique qualifications make us exceptionally effective in hazing litigation:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings a critical perspective. As a former insurance defense attorney at a national law firm, she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies evaluate (and undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, their arguments for denying coverage, and their entire settlement playbook. “We know their playbook because we used to run it.” 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.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has over 25 years of experience taking on formidable opponents. He was one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation—a complex, multi-party legal battle against a billion-dollar corporation. This federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their highly-resourced defense teams. “We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won. We know how to fight powerful defendants.” Learn more about Ralph Manginello’s qualifications at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: Our firm has a proven track record in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We understand how to value not just immediate medical costs, but also long-term care needs (for brain injuries, permanent disabilities), and the profound emotional and financial impact on families. “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.” Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic cases.
• Dual Civil + Criminal Hazing Expertise: Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a crucial advantage. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation, allowing us to advise not only victims but also witnesses or former members who might face dual exposure. Attorney911’s criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) means we can advise on both criminal exposure and civil liability.
• Investigative Depth: We know that winning a hazing case requires more than just legal knowledge. It demands relentless investigation. We work with a network of experts—medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists—to uncover, preserve, and interpret every piece of evidence. From obtaining deleted group chats and social media evidence to compelling national fraternity records showing prior incidents and university files through discovery, “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

We understand this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our approach is empathetic and supportive, firmly focused on victim advocacy. Our job is to get you answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We believe in thorough investigation and unwavering pursuit of real accountability, not just quick settlements. Attorney911’s YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm) features many educational videos on personal injury and client rights, including one explaining how contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F1Nc.

Call to Action: Your Next Step for Accountability

If your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus, from Texas Tech in Lubbock, to the larger institutions in Austin, Houston, or Dallas, we want to hear from you. Families in Dickens 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 will listen to what happened without judgment, explain your legal options under Texas law, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family. There’s no pressure to hire us on the spot; our goal is to empower you with information. Everything you share with us is confidential.

Here’s what to expect in your free consultation:

(1) We’ll listen to your story without judgment.
(2) We will explain how the law applies to your specific situation and what your legal options are.
(3) We will discuss realistic timelines and what to expect from the legal process.
(4) We will answer your questions about costs – with our contingency fee structure, we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
(5) We will help you understand every aspect of pursuing a hazing claim in Texas.

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

Contact Us:

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

Hablamos Español:

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

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