Texas Hazing Laws: A Comprehensive Guide for Brazos County Families

The phone rings late, a frantic whisper from your child away at college. Or perhaps it’s the quiet withdrawal, the sudden secrecy, the unexplained injuries your student tries to brush off. For families in Brazos County, from College Station itself to the surrounding communities of Bryan, Caldwell, and Navasota, the nightmare of hazing is a very real and present concern. Whether your child attends Texas A&M right here in the Brazos Valley, or any of the other prestigious universities across Texas, the patterns of abuse know no geographical bounds.

It’s “initiation night” at an off-campus fraternity house in College Station. A new initiate, desperate to earn acceptance, is forced to consume an entire bottle of hard liquor while older members film and chant. The room spins, consciousness fades, and a lifetime of dreams teeters on the brink, all while hesitant friends argue about calling for help. Someone gets hurt, falls, or vomits, but nobody wants to call 911 because they fear “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.” The student, caught between a desire to belong and their own rapidly deteriorating safety, feels utterly trapped. This isn’t just a scene from a movie; it’s a chilling reality played out on campuses across our state, including places where many Brazos County families send their children to learn and grow.

This comprehensive guide is designed for Texans, particularly families across the Brazos Valley and beyond, who need to understand the dark truth about hazing. We’ll delve into what hazing truly looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes to expose its modern forms, including digital coercion and psychological abuse. We will explain how Texas and federal law address hazing, providing a framework for accountability. Critically, we will connect major national hazing cases to what has been happening at the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University – the institutions where many Brazos County students pursue higher education. Most importantly, we will outline the legal options available to victims and families throughout Texas who seek justice and accountability.

While this article offers general information, it is not a substitute for specific legal advice tailored to your unique situation. Every case is different, and the facts matter. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC is committed to providing confidential evaluations based on your specific circumstances. We serve families throughout Texas, including those right here in Brazos County, helping them navigate these difficult waters.

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.” Prioritize their health and safety above all else.
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot group chats, texts, and DMs immediately. Evidence disappears quickly.
  • Photograph any injuries from multiple angles and over several days to show progression.
  • Save any physical items that may be relevant, such as clothing worn during the incident, receipts for forced purchases, or other objects related to the hazing.
• Write down everything while memory is fresh: who was involved, what happened, when and where it occurred. Detailed contemporaneous notes are invaluable.
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly. Your direct intervention risks evidence destruction or retaliation.
  • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without first consulting an attorney. You could inadvertently waive critical rights.
  • Post details on public social media platforms. Such posts can compromise a future legal case.
  • Allow your child to delete messages or “clean up” any evidence. This could be seen as obstruction.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast – deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses. Time is of the essence in these cases.
• Universities often move quickly to control the narrative and may not always prioritize the victim’s best interests.
• We can help preserve crucial evidence and protect your child’s rights from the outset.
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Brazos County families unfamiliar with modern Greek life or student organizations, hazing often conjures images from movies – a goofy prank, a slightly embarrassing ritual. The reality in 2025 is far more insidious and dangerous. Hazing is not about community building; it is about power, control, and often, abuse. It’s any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits an individual. We emphasize that a statement like “I agreed to it” does not automatically make the situation safe or legal, especially when powerful peer pressure and significant power imbalances are at play.

Clear, Modern Definitions of Hazing

Hazing manifests in various escalating forms, often designed to break down an individual’s will and instill absolute loyalty through shared trauma.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is one of the most common and deadliest forms. It involves forced or coerced drinking, often through chugging challenges, “lineups” where pledges consume drinks in rapid succession, or “games” designed for dangerous intoxication. Pledges may be pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances, leading to severe health consequences.
• Physical Hazing: This category includes direct physical abuse such as paddling and beatings, often disguised as “tradition.” It extends to extreme calisthenics, relentless “workouts,” or “smokings” (punitive exercises) that go far beyond normal physical conditioning, leading to exhaustion and injury. Sleep deprivation, food and water deprivation, and exposure to extreme cold or heat (or other dangerous environments) are also prevalent.
• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are deeply traumatizing and include forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (such as “roasted pig” positions or “elephant walks”), and wearing degrading costumes. Often, these acts have racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones, further dehumanizing the victim.
• Psychological Hazing: While not leaving physical scars, psychological hazing inflicts profound emotional damage. This includes verbal abuse, threats, forced social isolation, constant intimidation, and psychological manipulation. Public shaming, often on social media or in group meetings, is a common tactic to control and degrade pledges.
• Digital/Online Hazing: With the ubiquity of smartphones and social media, hazing has evolved into the digital realm. This involves group chat dares, online “challenges,” and public humiliation via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, and others. Pledges may be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to respond instantly to commands at all hours.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is not confined to stereotypes of “frat boys” or single-gender organizations. While fraternities and sororities (across IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural councils) are frequently in the news, hazing can and does occur in a wide array of student groups:

• Fraternities and Sororities: These remain primary sites for hazing, especially during pledge or new member periods.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Highly structured environments, especially at institutions like Texas A&M, can sometimes foster hazing under the guise of “training” or “discipline.”
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Groups like cheerleading squads, dance teams, and university spirit organizations (e.g., historical groups at UT Austin) have faced hazing allegations.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, swimming, and even band, team bonding can morph into abusive hazing rituals. The Northwestern University hazing scandal is a stark reminder that hazing is not confined to Greek life but can infiltrate major athletic programs.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: The tragic death of Robert Champion in the Florida A&M marching band showed that even performance groups can be sites of brutal hazing.
• Some Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any group with a hierarchical structure and an “initiation” period can be susceptible to hazing.

The survival of these dangerous practices, despite their illegality and documented harm, is deeply rooted in social status, tradition, and a code of silence. These factors create environments where hazing is often seen as a necessary evil to “earn” belonging, even when everyone “knows” it is illegal. Brazos County parents and students need to be aware that hazing can appear in unexpected places, under the guise of “bonding” or “tradition.”

Law & Liability Framework for Hazing in Texas

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing in Texas is crucial for Brazos County families seeking accountability. While we cannot provide specific legal advice in this guide, we can outline the general framework that governs these serious cases.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific, robust anti-hazing provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. In plain terms, if someone makes you do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk, that is hazing under Texas law. Critically, this law applies to any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether on or off campus, 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.

Key points of Texas Hazing Law:

• Location Doesn’t Matter: Hazing can happen on or off campus. Moving the activity to a private house or Airbnb does not exempt it from legal consequences.
• Harm Can Be Mental or Physical: The law covers both physical injuries (beatings, forced exercise, forced alcohol consumption) and psychological harm (extreme humiliation, intimidation, severe mental distress).
• Intent: An individual or organization does not necessarily need malicious intent to be found liable. “Reckless” conduct – meaning they knew the risk and did it anyway – is sufficient.
• “Consent” Is Not a Defense: One of the most critical aspects of Texas law, specifically Texas Education Code § 37.155 (Consent Not a Defense), explicitly states that it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the activity. This recognizes that true consent is impossible within coercive power dynamics.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing:

Texas law outlines serious criminal consequences for hazing:

• Class B Misdemeanor (default): This applies to hazing that does not cause serious injury and carries potential penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes an injury that requires medical treatment, the charge can be elevated to a Class A misdemeanor.
• State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a state jail felony, carrying significant prison time and fines.

Additionally, those with knowledge of hazing have a duty to report. Failing to report hazing (if you are a member or officer and knew about it) is a separate misdemeanor offense. Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor. This demonstrates that both individuals and organizations can face criminal accountability.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It’s important for Brazos County families to understand the distinction between criminal and civil legal actions related to hazing:

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (the prosecutor’s office) against individuals or organizations accused of violating criminal hazing statutes. The primary aim is punishment, which can include jail sentences, fines, and probation. In hazing contexts, criminal charges can vary from hazing offenses themselves to more serious allegations like furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or even manslaughter or negligent homicide in fatal incidents.
• Civil Cases: These are initiated by the victims of hazing or their surviving family members. The central aim of a civil lawsuit is to obtain monetary compensation for the damages suffered and to hold responsible parties accountable. Civil claims often focus on legal theories such as negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring/supervision by faculty or university staff, premises liability (for property owners where hazing takes place), and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Crucially, a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. The burden of proof is different (lower in civil than criminal), and both types of cases can progress independently. A strong civil case can even spur a criminal investigation, and vice versa.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also impact how universities respond to and report hazing, offering additional avenues for accountability.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant piece of federal legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal financial aid must enhance their transparency and prevention efforts regarding hazing. By around 2026, these institutions will be required to publicly report hazing incidents in a more detailed manner, strengthen their hazing education and prevention programs, and maintain public data on hazing violations. This will make it easier for Brazos County families to research hazing histories at colleges across the country.
• Title IX: When hazing involves sex-based discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual assault, it triggers the protections and obligations of Title IX. This federal law prohibits discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance. If hazing includes gender-based hostility, forced sexual acts, or sexual humiliation, universities have a duty to investigate and address it under Title IX.
• 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 that involve assault, alcohol or drug-related offenses, or other specified crimes often fall under Clery reporting requirements, further contributing to transparency.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining who is legally responsible in a hazing case is complex, but several parties can potentially be held liable:

• Individual Students: The students who actively planned, encouraged, participated in, or covered up the hazing can be sued directly. This includes those who supplied alcohol, physically assaulted pledges, or delayed contacting emergency services.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The local fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself (if it’s a recognized legal entity) can be held liable. This extends to officers or “pledge educators” who orchestrate or supervise the hazing.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters, which sets policies, collects dues, and is meant to supervise its chapters, can be sued for negligence, gross negligence, or for failing to enforce its own rules. Liability often hinges on whether the national organization knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing at the local chapter or among its other chapters.
• University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself can be held accountable under various legal theories, including negligent supervision, wrongful death, or even civil rights violations (e.g., Title IX). Key factors include whether the university had prior warnings, how it enforced its anti-hazing policies, and whether it showed “deliberate indifference” to known risks. Public universities in Texas (like Texas A&M and UH) have some protections under sovereign immunity but these are not absolute.
• Third Parties: Other entities can also be implicated, such as landlords or property owners of off-campus houses or event spaces where hazing occurred, bars or alcohol suppliers under dram shop laws, or even security companies that failed in their duties.

Every hazing case is distinct, and the specific facts dictate which parties may be held liable. For Brazos County families, understanding these potential avenues for accountability is the first step in seeking justice.

National Hazing Case Patterns and Their Relevance to Texas

The tragic national hazing cases that dominate headlines serve as crucial lessons for families in Brazos County and across Texas. They reveal consistent patterns of abuse, institutional failures, and the profound legal consequences that can follow. These high-profile incidents, though they occurred outside Texas, establish legal precedents and illustrate the foreseeability of harm, both of which are vital in pursuing justice against fraternities, universities, and individuals here in Texas.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most common and often fatal form of hazing involves forced alcohol consumption. These incidents underscore a reckless disregard for life and highlight the devastating impact of a culture of silence.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (February 2017): Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died after participating in a bid-acceptance event at the fraternity house. He was forced to drink dangerous amounts of alcohol, fell multiple times (captured on the chapter’s security cameras), and lay suffering for hours before medical help was eventually called. This case led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the enactment of a new Pennsylvania anti-hazing law named after him. The Piazza case is a stark reminder of how extreme intoxication, delayed medical intervention, and a pervasive culture of silence can lead to catastrophic legal and human costs.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (November 2017): Andrew Coffey, a freshman pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to consume them quickly. This tragedy resulted in criminal hazing charges against fraternity members and led Florida State University to temporarily suspend all Greek life before implementing comprehensive policy overhauls. This case illustrates how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights, presented as brotherhood rites, are often repeating scripts for disaster.
• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (September 2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died from alcohol toxicity with a blood alcohol content of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game. During this ritual, pledges were forced to drink heavily if they answered questions incorrectly. Max’s death spurred public outrage and led to the creation of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, a felony hazing statute. This case is a powerful example of how legislative change and stronger legal protections often arise directly from public outcry and clear evidence of egregious hazing.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (March 2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” pledge night. Multiple fraternity members were criminally convicted for hazing-related charges. In the civil sphere, Bowling Green State University (a public institution) agreed to a settlement of nearly $3 million with the Foltz family, with additional settlements reached with the fraternity and individuals, totaling $10 million. The Foltz case demonstrates that universities, particularly public ones, can face substantial financial and reputational consequences alongside the implicated fraternities. Notably, a court ordered the chapter president, Daylen Dunson, to personally pay $6.5 million to the Foltz family, underscoring that individual officers face massive personal liability.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized hazing can inflict severe, even fatal, injuries, often under the guise of “tradition” or “bonding.”

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (December 2013): Michael Deng, a freshman pledge, died after being subjected to a brutal blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. During the ritual, he was repeatedly tackled while wearing a heavy backpack, suffering a fatal traumatic brain injury. After his collapse, fraternity members delayed calling 911. Multiple members were eventually convicted of various charges, and the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity itself was found guilty of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, subsequently being banned from Pennsylvania for a decade. This landmark case illustrates that off-campus “retreats” are often chosen precisely to conceal dangerous hazing and that national organizations bear significant legal responsibility for the actions of their chapters.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it infiltrates various campus organizations, including prestigious athletic programs.

• Northwestern University Football Scandal (2023–2025): In a series of shocking revelations, former football players at Northwestern University alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the football program spanning multiple years. The allegations included forced sexual acts in the locker room and other degrading rituals. This scandal led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern and its coaching staff, the firing of long-time head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later filed his own wrongful-termination suit), and a national discussion about institutional oversight in sports. This case highlights that hazing extends far beyond fraternities and sororities, permeating high-profile athletic programs where the stakes for “team bonding” can be exceptionally high.

What These Cases Mean for Brazos County Families

The common threads running through these national tragedies are stark: forced drinking, humiliation, physical violence, a culture of secrecy, and critically, delayed or denied medical care and subsequent cover-ups. These cases unequivocally demonstrate that significant legal reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements often only follow profound tragedies and determined litigation. Brazos County families grappling with hazing incidents at Texas A&M in College Station, or at other major Texas universities like UH, UT, SMU, or Baylor, are operating within a legal landscape heavily shaped by these national lessons. These precedents prove that institutions can be held accountable for failing to protect students from foreseeable harm.

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

For Brazos County residents, the specter of hazing often hits close to home. Many families in College Station, Bryan, and the entire Brazos Valley send their children to Texas A&M. Others have children attending the University of Houston, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University in Dallas, or Baylor University in Waco. While each campus has its distinct culture, they share a common challenge in combating hazing. From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Brazos county and its surrounding regions, offering counsel and representation for hazing incidents at these and other Texas universities.

5.1 Texas A&M University

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (Brazos County Connection)

Texas A&M University, a cornerstone of the Brazos Valley and College Station, is deeply embedded in the lives of many Brazos County families. Known for its strong traditions, the Aggie spirit, and the unparalleled dedication of its students and alumni, A&M also hosts a vibrant Greek life and the globally recognized Corps of Cadets. These rich traditions, while fostering strong bonds, also present unique challenges in preventing hazing, as the line between tradition and abuse can sometimes become blurred. This makes understanding A&M’s specific context especially vital for families right here in College Station and across the Brazos Valley. Students from throughout Brazos County attend A&M, reinforcing the local impact of any hazing incidents.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M unequivocally prohibits hazing, stating it “will not be tolerated.” The university’s Student Life Handbook outlines a comprehensive policy against hazing, defining it broadly to include any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or membership in an organization. Reporting channels are available through the Dean of Student Life, the Office of Student Conduct, and the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD). Anonymous reporting via a dedicated ethics and compliance hotline is also promoted. For students in the Corps of Cadets, additional reporting mechanisms and direct chain-of-command reporting are also in place.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Despite strict policies, Texas A&M has faced its share of hazing allegations and incidents, highlighting the persistent challenge.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (Around 2021): This incident drew national attention when two pledges of the SAE chapter at Texas A&M filed a lawsuit alleging severe hazing. They claimed to have been subjected to strenuous physical activity and then doused with an industrial-strength cleaner, along with raw eggs and spit. This resulted in severe chemical burns that required emergency skin graft surgeries. The fraternity chapter was suspended by the university for two years after the allegations, and the pledges sought $1 million in damages. This case highlights the extreme and dangerous forms hazing can take, moving beyond traditional alcohol consumption to chemical assault.
• Corps of Cadets Hazing (2023): A federal lawsuit was filed by a former cadet alleging degrading and dangerous hazing practices within the Corps of Cadets. The allegations included simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth, reminiscent of historical hazing tactics. The cadet sought over $1 million in damages, drawing scrutiny to how A&M’s unique military-style traditions interact with anti-hazing policies. Texas A&M stated it addressed the matter through its internal processes, underscoring the complexities of oversight within such a large and traditional institution. While the Corps of Cadets has many valuable traditions, it is crucial for families and students to distinguish between healthy challenge and illegal hazing.
• Kappa Sigma (2023, Ongoing): There have been ongoing allegations of hazing within the Kappa Sigma chapter at Texas A&M, resulting in severe injuries linked to rhabdomyolysis – a serious muscle breakdown condition caused by extreme physical exertion. This further demonstrates that hazing at A&M isn’t solely alcohol-related but can involve dangerous physical endurance tests. Civil litigation related to these allegations is ongoing, underscoring the need for specialized legal representation focused on the recovery of victims suffering from such injuries.

5.1.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Brazos County families involved in a hazing incident at Texas A&M, navigating the legal process requires specialized knowledge. Depending on where the incident occurred (on-campus, off-campus in College Station, or a nearby locale like Bryan or Wellborn), the involved agencies might include Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD), the College Station Police Department, or the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Brazos County. Potential defendants would include the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the university itself and/or property owners (e.g., if the hazing occurred at an off-campus rental near Brazos County borders).

5.1.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Families located in College Station, Bryan, and the wider Brazos County area who send their children to Texas A&M should be particularly vigilant.

• Familiarize Yourself with A&M’s Policies: Understand the university’s official hazing definition and reporting procedures, which are outlined in the Student Life Handbook.
• Report to A&M Authorities: If hazing is suspected, reports can be made through the Dean of Student Life, the Office of Student Conduct, or directly to Texas A&M UPD. Anonymous tips can also be submitted.
• Document Everything: As quickly and thoroughly as possible, collect evidence including screenshots of group chats (GroupMe is common at A&M), photos of injuries, and notes detailing dates, times, and specific incidents. Given the traditional nature of some A&M organizations, any written or digital “pledge materials” should also be preserved.
• Understand Corps-Specific Dynamics: If your child is in the Corps of Cadets, understand the specific internal reporting structures but be prepared to elevate concerns if they are not adequately addressed internally.
• Seek Legal Counsel Immediately: Contacting a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases and specifically with Texas A&M incidents can help uncover prior discipline, internal files, and navigate potential resistance from powerful institutions. Proactive legal counsel from Attorney911 can ensure evidence is preserved and your rights are protected.

5.2 University of Houston (UH)

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston is a large, dynamic urban campus located in Houston, a major metropolitan hub. It serves a diverse student body, including a mix of commuter and residential students, and boasts a very active Greek life across its various councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, MGC, UGC). Beyond Greek organizations, UH also hosts numerous student groups, sports clubs, and cultural associations. The density of student organizations and the urban setting can sometimes make oversight challenging, but it also creates a rich landscape for student engagement. Many Brazos County families have children who attend UH, often seeking opportunities in Houston’s thriving job market.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, emphasizing that hazing is prohibited both on and off campus. Their policy broadly defines hazing to include the forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs; any form of sleep deprivation; physical mistreatment or abuse; and mental or emotional distress imposed as part of initiation or affiliation. UH provides clear reporting channels through the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). The university also posts a general hazing statement and some limited disciplinary information on its website.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

While not always as publicly transparent with specific incidents as some other Texas universities, UH has disciplined chapters for hazing.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) Case (2016): This case involved allegations that pledges of the UH chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha were deprived of sufficient food, water, and sleep during a multi-day “pledge” event. One student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table or similar surface. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges, illustrating the criminal implications of such conduct, and was subject to university suspension.
• Ongoing Disciplinary Actions: Disciplinary records at UH (though not always detailed publicly) show a pattern of suspending or placing fraternities and sororities on probation for violations of hazing policy, often involving alcohol misuse, psychological manipulation, and behaviors “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort.” This highlights UH’s willingness to enforce its policies, even if the specifics of individual incidents are not always widely publicized.

5.2.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Brazos County families whose child experiences hazing at UH, legal proceedings would typically involve agencies within Houston. Law enforcement could involve UHPD for on-campus incidents or the Houston Police Department for off-campus events. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Potential defendants would include the individual students directly responsible, the local chapter, the larger national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the University of Houston itself and/or property owners where the hazing took place.

5.2.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

Families from Brazos County with students at the University of Houston should take proactive steps if hazing is suspected:

• Understand UH’s Resources: Familiarize yourself with the UH Dean of Students office, student conduct processes, and the UHPD for reporting.
• Document Prior Complaints: If any prior complaints about hazing at UH or about a specific organization are known, document them. This can provide valuable context for a legal case.
• Preserve Digital Evidence: Screenshots of GroupMe, iMessage, or other communication apps commonly used by student groups at UH can be critical evidence.
• Talk to a Hazing Lawyer: Contacting a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases can provide invaluable guidance, helping to uncover prior discipline, navigate university bureaucracy, and ensure your child’s legal rights are protected from organizations that might otherwise attempt to minimize or cover up incidents.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin, the state’s flagship public university, is a vast campus in the heart of the capital city. It is often a destination for high-achieving students from Brazos County and across Texas. UT-Austin has a massive and historically significant Greek system, active spirit organizations, and numerous clubs and athletic teams. Despite its academic prestige, the campus has a well-documented history of hazing challenges within its Greek life and other student groups, making it a critical focus for hazing awareness and prevention.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UT-Austin has a robust anti-hazing policy and, notably, is one of the more transparent universities in Texas when it comes to reporting hazing violations. Their policies align with Texas state law, prohibiting any act that endangers mental or physical health for affiliation purposes. UT provides multiple reporting channels, including the Dean of Students’ office, the Office of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity, and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD). Importantly, UT-Austin maintains a public Hazing Violations page on its website (hazing.utexas.edu), which lists specific organizations, dates of incidents, a summary of the conduct, and the disciplinary sanctions imposed. This public database is an invaluable resource for families.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT-Austin’s public hazing log reveals a recurring pattern of violations across various organizations.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): The Pi Kappa Alpha chapter at UT-Austin was sanctioned after new members were directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. This was deemed hazing, leading to the chapter being placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Spirit Organizations: Beyond Greek life, groups like the Texas Wranglers and other spirit organizations have faced disciplinary action for hazing that involved forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices. This reinforces that hazing is not confined to fraternities or sororities at UT.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (January 2024): This case involved an Australian exchange student who alleged he was brutally assaulted by members of the SAE chapter at a party, resulting in a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, a fractured tibia, and a broken nose. The student initiated a civil lawsuit against the SAE chapter for over $1 million. The chapter was already under suspension for prior hazing and safety violations, underscoring the pattern of repeated misconduct within some organizations.

The transparency offered by UT’s public log, while commendable for accountability, also clearly demonstrates the persistent and varied nature of hazing at the university.

5.3.4 How a UT-Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Brazos County families whose children attend UT-Austin, legal incidents could involve the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) for on-campus issues, or the Austin Police Department for off-campus occurrences in the city. Civil lawsuits would generally be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Austin and Travis County. The public hazing log at UT-Austin is a powerful resource in building a case, as it can directly show prior violations, patterns of behavior, and the university’s knowledge of an organization’s history, strengthening arguments for negligence or foreseeability.

5.3.5 What UT-Austin Students & Parents Should Do

Given UT’s large Greek system and the existence of its public hazing log, students and parents from Brazos County should:

• Consult UT’s Hazing Violations Page: Use hazing.utexas.edu to research any organization your child plans to join. This is a crucial first step for informed decision-making.
• Utilize Reporting Channels: Understand how to report to the Dean of Students, student conduct office, or UTPD.
• Document Prior Violations: If an organization your child is involved with appears on the hazing log, print out that record. This public documentation is a strong piece of evidence in any future legal action.
• Seek Legal Advice Soon: Contacting an experienced hazing lawyer early can help leverage UT’s own transparency against organizations with repeat offenses, ensuring that prior warnings are not ignored. Attorney911 can help families navigate these complexities.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Southern Methodist University, a private university located in Dallas, is known for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and a vibrant, often prominent, Greek life. SMU attracts students from affluent backgrounds, including many from Brazos County, and its Greek organizations are a significant part of the social fabric. The environment of a private university brings a different dynamic to hazing enforcement and transparency compared to public institutions.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains clear anti-hazing policies, explicitly prohibiting any activity that causes physical or psychological harm or humiliation as part of initiation or membership. They provide reporting mechanisms through the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and SMU Police. SMU also utilizes systems such as “Real Response,” a digital platform designed for anonymous reporting of student conduct concerns, including hazing, demonstrating a commitment to encouraging students to come forward.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Like many universities with active Greek systems, SMU has had its share of hazing incidents and disciplinary actions.

• Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): This well-documented case involved allegations that new members of the Kappa Alpha Order chapter at SMU were subjected to paddling, forced consumption of alcohol, and sleep deprivation. The chapter faced an extensive suspension from the university, which included restrictions on recruiting new members for several years, a significant sanction for a prominent Greek organization on campus.
• Ongoing Monitoring: SMU actively monitors its Greek organizations and other student groups, and disciplinary actions, including suspensions and probations, are periodically taken for hazing violations that involve alcohol misuse, physical abuse, and inappropriate rituals. Specific details of these private university incidents are often less publicly accessible than those from public institutions, but they are noted in the university’s internal records.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Brazos County families whose children attend SMU, legal action would typically involve agencies within Dallas. Law enforcement could include SMU Police for on-campus incidents or the Dallas Police Department for off-campus. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Dallas County. As a private university, SMU’s internal disciplinary records are generally not subject to public records requests in the same way as public universities. However, through aggressive civil litigation and the discovery process, an experienced hazing attorney can compel the release of these internal documents, revealing patterns of misconduct and the university’s knowledge or inaction, even when such information isn’t publicly posted.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

Families from Brazos County with students at SMU should be aware of the university’s reporting mechanisms:

• Utilize SMU’s Reporting Tools: Familiarize yourself with SMU’s system for reporting hazing, including traditional channels (Dean of Students) and anonymous tools like “Real Response.”
• Document Everything Digitally: Given the less public nature of private university disciplinary actions, preserving all digital evidence – group chat messages, photos, videos – is even more critical.
• Understand Private University Dynamics: Be aware that while SMU has strong policies, it may control information differently. Early legal consultation is vital to ensure that evidence is not suppressed and that the university’s duty of care is thoroughly examined.
• Contact an Experienced Lawyer: Attorneys experienced in hazing litigation know how to pursue evidence and accountability from private institutions, compelling discovery that might not otherwise be publicly available.

5.5 Baylor University

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University, situated in Waco, is a private Christian university known for its strong emphasis on faith, academic excellence, and a passionate student body. It attracts students from across Texas, including Brazos County, who are drawn to its unique values and strong community. Baylor has active Greek life and athletic programs. Historically, Baylor has faced significant scrutiny and public attention regarding its handling of student safety issues, particularly surrounding its football program and Title IX violations, which can influence how hazing incidents are perceived and addressed by the university and the public.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University maintains a “zero tolerance” policy for hazing, emphasizing that it runs counter to the university’s Christian mission and values. Their policies align with Texas state law, prohibiting any activity that causes physical harm, psychological harm, or humiliation. Baylor provides reporting avenues through its Department of Student Activities, the Dean of Students office, and the Baylor Police Department. The university encourages students to report any suspected hazing, emphasizing anonymity when desired.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor’s commitment to anti-hazing has been tested by specific incidents, reflecting broader challenges within its institutional culture.

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): Amidst a season, an investigation into hazing allegations within the Baylor baseball program led to the suspension of 14 players. The suspensions were staggered across the early part of the season, indicating a widespread issue that required significant disciplinary action. This incident highlighted that hazing at Baylor is not confined to Greek organizations but can occur within its athletic programs, echoing the national trends seen in other university sports teams.
• Historical Scrutiny: Baylor’s prior legal and public relations challenges related to its handling of sexual assault cases have created a heightened awareness and sensitivity around institutional oversight. While distinct from hazing, this history means that any allegations of student misconduct, including hazing, at Baylor are likely to undergo intense internal and external scrutiny.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Brazos County families and their children attending Baylor, legal proceedings for hazing would likely involve agencies within Waco. The Baylor Police Department would handle on-campus incidents, while the Waco Police Department or McLennan County Sheriff’s Office would address off-campus events. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over McLennan County. As a private university, Baylor’s internal records, policies, and prior disciplinary actions are not publicly accessible through open records requests. However, experienced hazing attorneys can use legal discovery processes to obtain these critical documents, revealing how Baylor’s policies were enforced and its response to prior incidents.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

Families from Brazos County with students at Baylor University should be particularly vigilant and understand how to navigate the system:

• Understand Baylor’s Stance: Familiarize yourself with Baylor’s “zero tolerance” hazing policy and its reporting mechanisms.
• Document Thoroughly: Due to Baylor’s private status, detailed documentation of all evidence—digital communications, photos, medical records—becomes even more paramount for any legal action.
• Seek Independent Counsel: Given Baylor’s unique institutional history, securing independent legal counsel from hazing experts early is crucial. This ensures that the focus remains on the victim’s rights and accountability, rather than on the university’s internal narrative control.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific & National Histories

For families in Brazos County, whether their child is at Texas A&M in College Station or another major Texas university, it’s vital to recognize that many fraternities and sororities are not merely local clubs, but chapters of powerful national organizations. These national bodies often have extensive histories, complete with anti-hazing policies and risk management manuals developed in response to past tragedies. Understanding these national patterns is key to holding both local chapters and their parent organizations accountable in a Texas hazing lawsuit.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

National fraternities and sororities often have thick anti-hazing manuals and sophisticated risk management policies. This isn’t altruism; it’s a direct result of past legal action, catastrophic injuries, and preventable deaths at their chapters across the country. They know the patterns of hazing behavior: the forced drinking nights, the physical rituals, the humiliating “traditions.”

When a Texas chapter—whether at Texas A&M, UH, UT, SMU, or Baylor—repeats the same dangerous script that led to a lawsuit or chapter closure elsewhere, it establishes foreseeability for the national organization. This foreseeability is a critical legal concept, demonstrating that the national body knew or should have known the risks associated with such conduct but failed to prevent it. This significantly strengthens arguments for negligence, gross negligence, and even punitive damages against national entities.

6.2 Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

While an exhaustive list of every chapter at every university is impractical, here we highlight some of the major fraternities and sororities present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, particularly those with well-known national hazing issues.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): A prominent fraternity with chapters at Texas A&M University and the University of Texas at Austin, among others.
  • National History: Pi Kappa Alpha has been linked to several high-profile hazing deaths, most notably Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University (2021), where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning during a “Big/Little” night. The Foltz family secured a $10 million settlement from the national fraternity and university. Earlier, David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University (2012) also died from alcohol poisoning, leading to a $14 million settlement. These cases demonstrate a recurring pattern of alcohol-related hazing. For Brazos County families, these precedents highlight that national Pike has been on notice about such dangerous practices for over a decade.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Present at Texas A&M University and University of Texas at Austin.
  • National History: SAE has faced multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide. They made headlines for eliminating their traditional pledge process in 2014 due to a pattern of fatalities. Lawsuits continue, including a 2023 case at the University of Alabama alleging a traumatic brain injury during hazing, and a lawsuit at the University of Texas at Austin in January 2024 where a student alleged assault by members, resulting in severe injuries even while the chapter was under suspension for prior violations. The Texas A&M (2021) incident where pledges allegedly suffered chemical burns from industrial cleaner also involved SAE, further showing severe, physical hazing.
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): With chapters at Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, and Baylor University.
  • National History: Phi Delta Theta is tragically associated with the death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University (2017). Max died from alcohol toxicity during a hazing “Bible study” game, leading to criminal convictions and the enactment of Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (making felony hazing punishable by up to five years in prison).
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Chapters exist at Texas A&M University and University of Texas at Austin.
  • National History: Pi Kappa Phi was involved in the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017), who died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. This case resulted in criminal prosecutions and a temporary suspension of Greek life at FSU.
• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ): Found at Texas A&M University and Southern Methodist University.
  • National History: Kappa Alpha Order has a history of hazing allegations across its chapters, including instances of paddling and forced alcohol consumption. The chapter at SMU was suspended in 2017 for such allegations, restricting its operations for several years.
• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Chapters at Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, and Baylor University.
  • National History: Beta Theta Pi is linked to the high-profile death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State University (2017), whose case involved extreme alcohol consumption, falls, and a shocking delay in seeking medical help. This incident led to major criminal prosecutions and a significant shift in Pennsylvania’s anti-hazing legislation.
• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI): A chapter at Texas A&M University.
  • National History: Phi Gamma Delta is tied to the catastrophic injury of Danny Santulli at the University of Missouri (2021), where a pledge suffered severe, permanent brain damage from forced excessive alcohol consumption. Santulli’s family settled with 22 defendants for multi-million-dollar amounts, highlighting the extreme consequences of forced drinking.
• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Chapters at Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, and Baylor University.
  • National History: Sigma Chi has faced substantial liability for hazing. A 2024 case at the College of Charleston resulted in a more than $10 million settlement for severe physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, and psychological torment. Another incident at the University of Texas at Arlington in 2020 led to a pledge’s hospitalization for alcohol poisoning, resulting in a settlement.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Chapters at Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, and Baylor University.
  • National History: Kappa Sigma was found liable in the $12.6 million jury verdict for the 2001 drowning death of Chad Meredith at the University of Miami, who was coerced into swimming while intoxicated. This led to a law criminalizing hazing in Florida named in his honor. A recent (2023) ongoing case at Texas A&M University involves allegations of hazing resulting in severe rhabdomyolysis from extreme physical exertion.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

These recurring patterns across states and campuses demonstrate that many national organizations have received repeated warnings about dangerous hazing practices. In a civil lawsuit, courts will scrutinize whether these national bodies:

• Meaningfully enforced their anti-hazing policies: Were they merely “paper policies,” or were they actively and consistently enforced with meaningful consequences for violations?
• Acted aggressively enough in response to prior incidents: Did they conduct thorough investigations, punish offenders adequately, and implement changes to prevent recurrence?
• Provided adequate training and oversight: Did national advisors actively monitor chapter activities, especially during high-risk periods?

This scrutiny directly impacts the settlement leverage in a case, as it highlights the national organization’s negligence. It also influences insurance coverage disputes, as insurers may try to deny coverage for “intentional acts,” but a pattern of organizational negligence can circumvent such exclusions. Furthermore, evidence of a pattern of disregard for safety can potentially contribute to awards of punitive damages, designed to punish egregious conduct and deter future harm, depending on Texas laws and the specific claims. By understanding these national histories, Brazos County families can be better prepared to hold powerful institutions accountable.

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Successfully pursuing a hazing lawsuit, especially against powerful institutions like national fraternities and universities, requires a sophisticated and thorough legal approach. It involves meticulous evidence collection, a deep understanding of the full scope of damages, and a strategic legal plan. For Brazos County families, evidence collection starts immediately after an incident occurs.

7.1 Evidence: The Foundation of Your Case

In modern hazing cases, evidence is often digital and fleeting. Our firm specializes in uncovering and preserving the critical pieces needed to build a strong case.

• Digital Communications: This is often the most critical evidence. Group chat messages from platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Snapchat, TikTok, and even fraternity-specific apps can reveal planning, intent, knowledge, and patterns of hazing. This includes conversations before, during, and after the incident. We often work with digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages, though original screenshots are always best. 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.
• Photos & Videos: Any content filmed by members during hazing events (often for “entertainment”), footage shared in private group chats or on social media, or even public social media posts can be crucial. Surveillance footage from security cameras, doorbell cameras, or nearby businesses at houses and event venues can also provide objective proof. Photos of injuries, humiliating acts, or forced drinking are invaluable.
• Internal Organization Documents: These include pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “traditions” lists, and internal communications (emails, texts) from officers discussing pledge activities. We also seek national organization policies, risk management manuals, and training materials, comparing them with actual chapter conduct.
• University Records: Through subpoena or public records requests (for public institutions like Texas A&M and UH), we seek prior conduct files, records of probation or suspensions, warning letters, incident reports to campus police or student conduct offices, and even Clery Act reports. These reveal a pattern of knowledge or inaction by the university.
• Medical and Psychological Records: Comprehensive medical documentation is vital. This includes emergency room and hospitalization records, pathology reports, toxicology screens (critical for alcohol/drug-related hazing), and imaging (X-rays, CT scans) for physical injuries. Crucially, psychological evaluations, diagnoses of PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation document the profound emotional and mental health impacts of hazing.
• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are powerful. This includes testimony from other pledges, current or former members, roommates, Resident Advisors (RAs), coaches, and bystanders. Former members who have left the organization, especially those who quit due to hazing, can often provide crucial insights and testimony.

7.2 Damages: Understanding What You Can Recover

In a hazing lawsuit, the goal is to obtain monetary compensation that reflects the full scope of harm suffered by the victim and their family. While we cannot promise specific dollar amounts, we can outline the types of damages typically sought:

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs related to the injury, including immediate emergency room visits, ambulance transport, hospitalization, surgeries, ongoing medical treatments, physical therapy, medications, and rehabilitation. For catastrophic injuries like brain damage (as in the Danny Santulli case), this can include the immense cost of lifelong care.
• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This includes lost wages if the victim or a parent (who had to care for the victim) missed work. It also covers the profound impact on a student’s education, such as tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships, and the delayed entry into the workforce due to withdrawals or medical leave. If injuries lead to permanent disability, economists help calculate diminished future earning capacity over a lifetime.
• Non-Economic Damages: These subjective but legally compensable damages address the profound impact on a victim’s quality of life. They include physical pain and suffering, extreme emotional distress, trauma, humiliation, shame, and the loss of enjoyment of life (e.g., inability to participate in sports, hobbies, or social activities). Psychiatric diagnoses like PTSD, anxiety, or depression are critical in demonstrating this harm.
• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): When hazing results in death, surviving family members can recover for funeral and burial costs, the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and critically, the immense loss of companionship, love, and society. This also includes the grief and emotional suffering experienced by parents, siblings, and other close family members. Visit https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/ for more information on our wrongful death expertise.
• Punitive Damages: In cases where defendants acted with extreme recklessness, willful negligence, or malicious intent, punitive damages may be sought. These are designed not just to compensate victims but to punish the wrongdoers and deter similar conduct in the future. In Texas, punitive damages are available but often capped by statute.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing cases are complicated by the multitude of potential defendants and the complexities of insurance. National fraternities and universities often carry substantial insurance policies designed to protect them from liability. Yet, their insurers frequently attempt to deny coverage by arguing that hazing constitutes “intentional conduct” (which is often excluded from coverage) or “criminal acts.”

Our experienced hazing lawyers understand these tactics. As Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, with over 25 years of experience, and Lupe Peña, an associate attorney who formerly represented large insurance companies, know, we identify all potential sources of coverage, including individual members’ homeowner policies, local chapter policies, national policies, and university umbrella policies. We strategically navigate these disputes about coverage exclusions, trigger dates, and notice requirements to ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve. We know their playbook because we used to run it.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs for Brazos County Residents

Navigating the aftermath of a hazing incident can feel overwhelming, especially for families in Brazos County trying to understand their child’s rights and options—whether their student is at Texas A&M or another campus across the state. This section provides immediate, practical advice for parents, students, and witnesses.

8.1 For Parents in Brazos County

Parents are often the first line of defense. Knowing the warning signs and how to respond is critical.

• Warning Signs of Hazing:
  • Unexplained injuries (bruises, burns, cuts) or repeated “accidents” with weak explanations.
  • Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress, or pervasive sleep deprivation.
  • Drastic changes in mood, increased anxiety, depression, irritability, or unusual withdrawal from family and friends.
  • Sudden secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it,” “it’s a secret”).
  • Constant secret phone use for group chats, and anxiety if they miss a message.
  • Academic decline, missing classes, or neglecting studies due to “mandatory” group activities.
  • Changes in eating habits or unusual requests for money without clear explanation.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach with empathy, not accusation. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with the group?” or “Is there anything making you uncomfortable?” Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priority, and that you will support them no matter what. Reassure them that confidentiality can be maintained.
• If Your Child Is Hurt: Prioritize medical care immediately. Document everything: take photos of injuries from multiple angles and over several days, screenshot any relevant texts or social media posts, and write down every detail your child shares (who, what, when, where, why). Save names, dates, and locations.
• Dealing with the University: Document every communication with university administrators. Ask specific, direct questions about the organization’s prior disciplinary history and what the school’s response will be. Do not let them minimize the incident or deflect responsibility.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has sustained significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing or actively hiding what happened, it is time to consult an attorney. Early legal intervention can preserve critical evidence and protect your child’s rights.

8.2 For Students / Pledges

Students, particularly those entering new organizations, often feel intense pressure to conform. Your safety and well-being are more important than any “tradition.”

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself: Am I being told to keep secrets? Do I feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced? Am I forced to drink or endure pain? Would the older members do this themselves? Would my parents or the university approve? If the answer is yes to any of these, it is likely hazing, regardless of what they call it.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: It’s illegal to be hazed in Texas, even if you “agree” to it. The law recognizes that consent under intense peer pressure, power imbalance, or fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent. Your worth is not defined by enduring abuse.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time without penalty. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. You can also report anonymously through campus hotlines or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE). Tell a trusted adult (parent, RA, academic advisor) your concerns.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Texas law and many university policies provide immunity for individuals who call for help in an emergency (e.g., for alcohol poisoning), even if they were underage or involved in the hazing themselves. Your life, and the lives of others, are more important than avoiding minor disciplinary action.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were part of a group where hazing occurred, or you witnessed it, you might feel conflicted, guilty, or fearful of consequences. However, your actions can literally save lives and prevent future harm.

• Acknowledge that speaking out is courageous. Your testimony and evidence are critical to holding abusers accountable and preventing more students from being harmed.
• Understand that while you may need your own legal counsel on your individual exposure (especially if you participated), cooperating with investigations or a civil lawsuit can be an essential step toward justice and personal healing.
• Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your legal position as a witness or even a co-defendant, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Brazos County families and students, the period immediately following a hazing incident is fraught with emotional difficulty and critical legal decisions. Making the wrong move can severely — even fatally — impact your ability to seek justice. Avoid these common but devastating mistakes:

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence:
   • What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble or feel embarrassed.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Deleting evidence (group chats, texts, photos, videos) looks like a cover-up. It can be considered obstruction of justice and makes building a viable legal case nearly impossible. Digital forensics can sometimes recover deleted data, but original, timestamped screenshots are invaluable.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content. Screenshot group chats, text message threads, and social media posts. Save any physical evidence.
2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly:
   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind and demand answers.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This immediately puts the organization on alert. They will likely lawyer up, destroy evidence, delete communications, coach witnesses, and prepare their defenses. You lose the element of surprise and critical evidence may vanish.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in private. Before any confrontation, consult with an experienced hazing attorney.
3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms:
   • What universities do: Often pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements quickly, promising a swift conclusion.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your fundamental right to pursue a civil lawsuit. The terms offered in these agreements are typically far below the true value of a legal claim, prioritizing the university’s quiet resolution over the victim’s full compensation.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign any document from the university or a fraternity/sorority without an attorney reviewing it first.
4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer:
   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened to my child and warn others.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys will screenshot every post. Inconsistencies between public statements and later legal testimony can severely damage credibility. Public posts can also inadvertently reveal sensitive information, potentially waiving legal privileges.
   • What to do instead: Document privately and meticulously. Allow your legal team to control any public messaging, if and when it becomes strategically appropriate.
5. Letting Your Child Go Back to “One Last Meeting”:
   • What fraternities say: “Just come talk to us one more time before you do anything drastic.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This is an opportunity for them to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can be used against your child in a legal case. It can further traumatize your child and complicate your legal strategy.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication should go through your lawyer. Your child should decline any such invitations.
6. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”:
   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating; please let us handle this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: While universities have internal processes, they are often designed to protect the institution first. During this “internal” process, critical evidence can disappear, witnesses may graduate or forget details, and the statute of limitations may run out. The university’s internal process is not a substitute for real legal accountability.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW. Consult with a lawyer immediately. The university’s investigation should be separate from your pursuit of justice.
7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer:
   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim and get things moving.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Statements taken from unrepresented parties are often used against them. Early settlement offers are typically lowball and do not reflect the full value of the claim.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline and state, “My attorney will contact you.” Do not provide any details or sign anything.

8.5 Short FAQ for Brazos County Families

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities like Texas A&M and UH have some sovereign immunity protections under Texas law, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities like SMU and Baylor have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts – contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis tailored to your family’s situation.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It absolutely can be. While hazing is classified as a Class B misdemeanor by default under Texas law, it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who are officers of an organization and fail to report hazing can also face misdemeanor charges.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation activities?”
  Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts and the law recognize that “consent” given under immense peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary or free consent. Your child was a victim, regardless of their initial participation.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”
  Generally, you have 2 years from the date of the injury or death to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause was not immediately apparent or discoverable. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute of limitations may be tolled (paused). Time is always critical—evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations may destroy records. Do not delay; call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. 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 can still be liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and the foreseeability of the hazing. Many major hazing cases that resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments, such as the Pi Delta Psi case (Pocono Mountains retreat) or the Sigma Pi incident (unofficial off-campus house), occurred off-campus.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing cases settle confidentially before ever reaching a public trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy and can work to ensure that court records are sealed and settlement terms remain confidential. We balance protecting your family’s anonymity with achieving the accountability and justice you deserve.

About The Manginello Law Firm & Your Call to Action

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who intimately understand how powerful institutions like national fraternities and major universities operate, how they fight back, and how to effectively navigate these complex legal battles to achieve justice. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, stands ready to be your Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including those right here in Brazos County and its surrounding communities like Bryan, Caldwell, and Navasota. We understand that hazing at Texas A&M, the University of Houston, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, and other campuses impacts families across our diverse state.

Our firm brings unique qualifications to hazing cases:

• Insurance Insider Gknowledge: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), formerly represented large insurance companies. This background gives us invaluable insight into how fraternity and university insurance carriers evaluate, deny, and ultimately settle hazing claims. We know their strategies, their delay tactics, and their arguments for coverage exclusions because we used to run that playbook.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Our managing partner, Ralph P. Manginello (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/), has over 25 years of experience, including taking on some of the largest corporations. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the historic BP Texas City explosion litigation. This experience means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their well-funded defense teams. We have successfully fought and won against powerful defendants.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, collaborating with economists and life care planners to ensure that settlements and verdicts fully account for a victim’s long-term medical needs, lost earnings, and profound emotional suffering. We don’t settle cheaply; we build cases that force genuine accountability. Visit https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/ for more about our expertise.
• Criminal and Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides us with a deep understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual expertise is crucial when navigating cases that may involve both criminal prosecution of perpetrators and civil claims for damages. Visit https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/ for more about our criminal defense practice.
• Investigative Depth: We deploy a wide network of experts—medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, psychologists—to meticulously build your case. We know how to obtain seemingly “deleted” group chat records, uncover suppressed university reports, and expose patterns of misconduct through aggressive discovery. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because for many families, it truly does.

At Attorney911, we approach every hazing case with profound empathy. We understand this is one of the hardest things a family in Brazos County or across Texas can face. Our mission is to secure answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and help prevent these tragedies from happening to another family.

Your Call to Action: Confidential Consultation for Brazos County Families

If your child experienced hazing at Texas A&M here in College Station, or at any other Texas university, we want to hear from you. Families in Brazos 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 your story without judgment, explain your legal options clearly, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family.

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story with compassion and without judgment.
• We’ll review any evidence you’ve gathered—photos, texts, medical records, or other documentation.
• We will clearly explain your legal options, whether that involves a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what you can expect during the legal process.
• We’ll answer all your questions about costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Watch our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot. We encourage you to take the time you need to make an informed decision.
• Everything you tell us during your consultation is strictly confidential.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911 today:

• 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

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

Whether you’re in Brazos 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