The Silent Scourge: Understanding Hazing on Texas Campuses and Your Rights in Friendswood

A young man from Friendswood, a bright student with dreams of a college life filled with camaraderie and growth, finds himself in an off-campus house near a major Texas university. It’s “initiation night,” a culmination of weeks of relentless pressure. He’s surrounded by older members, some chanting, others filming on their phones, as he’s pressured to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol. He tries to refuse, but the ridicule and threats of exclusion are overwhelming. Suddenly, he stumbles, collapses, and falls unconscious. His peers panic. The choice is stark: call for help and risk “getting the chapter shut down,” or try to handle it themselves and hope he wakes up. This agonizing decision, born from a culture of secrecy and fear, is a scenario playing out with tragic frequency across Texas campuses, impacting families right here in Friendswood, throughout Harris County, and across the Greater Houston metropolitan area.

For parents in Friendswood, the decision to send a child off to college is often met with a mix of pride and apprehension. We want them to thrive, forge lifelong friendships, and embrace new experiences. However, beneath the surface of vibrant campus life, a darker tradition persists: hazing. Hazing today is far more insidious than mere “pranks”—it’s a dangerous practice that endangers physical and mental health, often with catastrophic consequences.

This comprehensive guide is created for families in Friendswood and across Texas who need to understand the complex realities of hazing. We will delve into what modern hazing truly looks like, how Texas and federal laws address it, and what we can learn from major national cases and how they apply to the specific environments at University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University. Critically, we will explore the legal options available to victims and families in Friendswood and throughout Texas, connecting the dots between tragic incidents and pathways to accountability.

We understand that coming to terms with hazing can be overwhelming. This article provides general information, not specific legal advice. Every case is unique, but The Manginello Law Firm is here to evaluate individual situations based on their specific facts. We serve families throughout Texas, including Friendswood, Pearland, Pasadena, League City, Clear Lake, and the broader Houston area. Our firm is committed to helping those affected navigate these challenging circumstances.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW, their safety is paramount.

• If your child is in immediate physical danger, severely intoxicated, or injured, call 911 immediately. Prioritize medical attention above all else.
• Then, call Attorney911. We are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ for a reason. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) as soon as it is safe to do so.

In the first 48 hours, critical steps must be taken to protect your child and any potential legal case:

• Get medical attention immediately. Even if your child insists they are “fine,” any signs of injury, extreme intoxication, or distress warrant professional medical evaluation. Ensure medical providers document that the injuries/condition resulted from hazing.
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted. Time is of the essence.
  • Screenshot group chats, text messages, and direct messages (DMs) immediately. This includes GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Snapchat, and Instagram. Capture the full conversation, including sender names, timestamps, and context.
  • Photograph any injuries from multiple angles, and continue to document their progression over several days.
  • Save any physical items that may serve as evidence, such as damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or objects used in the hazing.
• Write down everything while memory is fresh. Document the who, what, when, where, and how of the incident. Note specific statements made by your child or others involved.
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly. This can lead to evidence destruction, witness coaching, and the preparation of defenses against you.
  • Sign anything presented by the university or an insurance company without first consulting with an attorney. You could inadvertently waive critical legal rights.
  • Post details on public social media. Such posts can be used against you, erode credibility, and potentially compromise your legal options.
  • Allow your child to delete messages or “clean up” any evidence. Digital evidence is often the most damning in hazing cases and skilled legal teams can recover deleted content, but original sources are always best.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours. Evidence disappears rapidly, witnesses may be coerced, and universities often move quickly to control the narrative. We can help preserve crucial evidence, protect your child’s rights, and advise you on the necessary next steps. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate, confidential consultation.

2. HAZING IN 2025: WHAT IT REALLY LOOKS LIKE

For Friendswood families, understanding hazing today requires looking beyond exaggerated movie stereotypes. Modern hazing is an evolving, often hidden practice that can inflict profound physical and mental harm. It’s designed to create a power imbalance and enforce conformity, often under the guise of “tradition” or “team building.”

2.1 Clear, modern definition of hazing

At its core, hazing refers to any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether on or off campus, by one person or a group, directed against a student. This act is committed for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students. Crucially, such an act must endanger the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or cause shame, embarrassment, or ridicule.

We want to emphasize a critical point: the phrase “I agreed to it” does not automatically render the activity safe or legal, especially when there’s an inherent power dynamic, intense peer pressure, or the threat of exclusion. True consent cannot exist in an environment where coercion, fear, or a desire for belonging overrides free will.

2.2 Main categories of hazing

Hazing tactics are diverse and cunningly adapted to avoid detection. They can be broadly categorized as follows:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is arguably the most common and deadliest form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often as part of “lineups,” chugging challenges, drinking games, or other rituals that require rapid consumption. Pledges may be pressured to consume unknown substances or mix drinks to dangerous levels. The goal is often rapid intoxication to break down psychological defenses and increase vulnerability.
• Physical Hazing: This category includes acts that directly inflict physical pain or discomfort. Common examples involve paddling, beatings, forced calisthenics or “workouts” far beyond normal athletic conditioning, and sleep, food, or water deprivation. Pledges might be exposed to extreme cold or heat, restricted to confined spaces, or made to endure dangerous physical environments. The objective is to push individuals beyond their limits, testing their “loyalty” or “toughness.”
• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are designed to degrade, embarrass, and strip individuals of their dignity. This can include forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (such as “elephant walk” or “roasted pig” poses), public masturbation, and wearing degrading costumes or body paint. Hazing with racial, sexist, or homophobic slurs or role-playing is equally dehumanizing and harmful. This form of hazing often leaves deep psychological scars.
• Psychological Hazing: This involves tactics designed to inflict mental and emotional distress. Examples include verbal abuse, threats, forced social isolation, manipulation, and forced confessions or “grilling” sessions where members verbally tear down pledges. Public shaming on social media, in meetings, or in front of peers creates an intensely hostile environment. The goal is total psychological control and obedience.
• Digital/Online Hazing: This is a rapidly growing area of concern. It leverages technology to pressure and humiliate members. Examples include forced participation in group chat dares, “challenges” posted on platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, or Discord, and direct messages that demand unreasonable responses. Pledges may be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to post embarrassing content to social media for the entertainment of older members. “Ghosting” or ignoring pledges in online groups can also be a form of psychological torture.

2.3 Where hazing actually happens

The misconception that hazing is limited to “frat boys dropping out of college” couldn’t be further from the truth. While fraternities and sororities (including Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural organizations) are frequently implicated, hazing permeates a much wider array of organizations:

• Corps of Cadets, ROTC, and other military-style groups: These groups, prominent at institutions like Texas A&M, often have deeply entrenched traditions that can morph into abusive hazing practices under the guise of “discipline” or “earning your keep.”
• Spirit squads, tradition clubs, and honor societies: Groups focused on school spirit, maintaining campus traditions (like the Texas Cowboys at UT), or academic excellence can also foster environments ripe for hazing.
• Athletic teams: From high school to NCAA Division I, football, basketball, baseball, track and field, and cheerleading squads have all seen serious hazing incidents. The pressure to conform and “earn your stripes” can be immense.
• Marching bands and other performing arts groups: Even organizations dedicated to creative expression have fallen prey to hazing, with rituals designed to bond members through shared hardship.
• Service, cultural, and academic organizations: Any group with a hierarchical structure and initiation process can become a breeding ground for hazing if left unchecked.

Whether spurred by a desire for social status, the perceived sanctity of “tradition,” or a code of absolute secrecy, these practices persist despite widespread condemnation and policy bans. The emphasis on loyalty and the fear of social retribution often silence victims, allowing the cycle to continue.

3. LAW & LIABILITY FRAMEWORK (TEXAS + FEDERAL)

For families in Friendswood and across Texas, understanding the legal landscape around hazing is crucial. Texas law provides both criminal penalties for those who commit hazing and civil remedies for victims and their families. This framework aims to punish offenders, deter future incidents, and compensate those who have suffered harm.

3.1 Texas hazing law basics (Education Code)

The State of Texas has clear anti-hazing provisions primarily found in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. This code broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether on or off campus, committed by one person or a group against a student. This act is considered hazing if it is done for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in any student organization, and if it:

• Endangers the physical health or safety of a student. This includes acts like forced consumption of alcohol or drugs, severe physical beatings, strenuous exercise beyond reasonable limits, or sleep deprivation.
• Substantially affects the mental health or safety of a student. This encompasses acts like extreme humiliation, verbal abuse, intimidation, or forced isolation leading to severe psychological distress.

Criminal Penalties:
Hazing in Texas is a serious offense with escalating criminal penalties:

• Class B Misdemeanor: This is the default classification for most hazing offenses, carrying potential jail time of up to 180 days and/or a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: The offense is elevated if the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical attention. This carries up to a year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $4,000.
• State Jail Felony: Critically, if hazing results in serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a state jail felony, punishable by 180 days to two years in a state jail and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

Beyond direct participation, the law also criminalizes:

• Failing to report hazing: Any student, faculty, or staff member who witnesses or has firsthand knowledge of hazing and fails to report it to the proper authorities can face criminal penalties.
• Retaliation: Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a criminal offense.

It is important to remember that this is a summary of the key provisions. The actual law contains more technical definitions and procedures, but the intent is clear: to ban and punish hazing in all its forms.

3.2 Criminal vs civil cases

When hazing occurs, there are typically two distinct legal avenues that can be pursued:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated and brought by the state (the district attorney’s office or state prosecutor) against individuals who are alleged to have broken criminal laws. The primary aim of a criminal case is to punish the offender through incarceration, fines, or probation. In hazing contexts, criminal charges can range from misdemeanor hazing offenses to assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, and, in tragic cases, manslaughter or negligent homicide.
• Civil Cases: These are lawsuits brought by victims or their surviving families against individuals and organizations responsible for the harm suffered. The purpose of a civil case is to obtain monetary compensation for damages (such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering) and to hold responsible parties accountable. Civil hazing lawsuits often focus on legal theories such as:
  • Negligence: Failure to exercise reasonable care, leading to injury.
  • Gross Negligence: A conscious indifference to the rights or safety of others.
  • Wrongful Death: A claim brought by family members when a death is caused by the negligence or misconduct of another party.
  • Negligent Hiring/Supervision: Claims against universities or national organizations for failing to properly vet or oversee their employees or chapters.
  • Premises Liability: Claims against property owners for dangerous conditions that lead to injury.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For extreme and outrageous conduct that causes severe emotional pain.

It is crucial to understand that a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. The standards of proof are different, and civil cases can proceed even if criminal charges are dropped or offenders are acquitted. Both types of cases can run concurrently, allowing victims to seek both justice and compensation.

3.3 Federal overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also play a significant role in demanding accountability from universities regarding hazing.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation, set to be fully implemented by 2026, requires all colleges and universities that receive federal funding to:
  • Report hazing incidents transparently: Institutions must publicly disclose all findings of hazing violations and the sanctions imposed.
  • Strengthen hazing education and prevention: Universities are mandated to implement comprehensive hazing prevention programs for all students, staff, and faculty.
  • Maintain public hazing data: This requirement aims to provide a clearer national picture of hazing incidents, holding institutions more accountable for addressing the problem.
• Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a sexually hostile environment, Title IX obligations are triggered. This requires universities to investigate promptly and implement remedies, regardless of whether the hazing occurred on or off campus, or by a student organization.
• 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 assaults, sexual offenses, or alcohol/drug-related crimes often fall under Clery reporting requirements, providing another layer of institutional accountability and allowing families to review campus safety statistics.

3.4 Who can be liable in a civil hazing lawsuit

In the wake of a hazing incident, multiple individuals and entities can be held legally responsible in a civil lawsuit. Identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial for ensuring comprehensive accountability and maximizing recovery for victims.

• Individual Students: Those who actively participated in, planned, encouraged, or covered up the hazing can be held personally liable. This includes those who supplied alcohol, coerced participation, engaged in physical abuse, or failed to call for help when someone was in danger. In a landmark case involving Stone Foltz, an individual fraternity president was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million to the family, demonstrating that individual officers can face immense personal liability.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or athletic team itself can be sued. If the organization is a legal entity, it can be held liable for the actions of its members, especially if the hazing was authorized, encouraged, or known to its leadership.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: Most local chapters are part of a larger national organization. These national bodies often have anti-hazing policies, risk management guidelines, and exert some control over their chapters. Plaintiffs can argue that national organizations are liable if they failed to properly supervise, educate, or discipline their local chapters, especially when there’s a history of prior hazing incidents within the organization.
• University or Governing Board: Universities can be held responsible under various theories. This can include:
  • Negligent Supervision: Failing to adequately oversee student organizations.
  • Failure to Enforce Policies: Not consistently enforcing their own anti-hazing policies.
  • Deliberate Indifference: Knowing about a pattern of hazing and failing to act.
  • Premises Liability: If the hazing occurred on university property and the university failed to maintain a safe environment.
    Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some protection under sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence or under federal laws like Title IX. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: Other entities can also bear responsibility:
  • Landlords/Property Owners: If the hazing occurred in an off-campus house where the owner knew or should have known about dangerous activities.
  • Alcohol Providers: Bars, stores, or individuals who illegally furnish alcohol to minors that contributes to a hazing incident can face dram shop liability.
  • Security Companies/Event Organizers: If their negligence contributed to the incident.

It’s vital to recognize that liability is always fact-specific. Not every party will be liable in every situation, but an experienced hazing attorney meticulously investigates all potential defendants to build the strongest possible case for accountability.

4. NATIONAL HAZING CASE PATTERNS (ANCHOR STORIES)

While hazing tragedies often grab headlines locally, they are part of a disturbing national pattern. These anchor stories from across the country serve as critical precedents, illustrating the severe consequences of hazing and informing how civil lawsuits are pursued in Texas. They underscore common threads of alcohol abuse, physical violence, negligence, and cover-ups that sadly repeat, affecting families like those in Friendswood whose children attend Texas universities.

4.1 Alcohol poisoning & death pattern

The most frequent and fatal form of hazing involves forced alcohol consumption. The following cases highlight this tragic pattern:

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (February 2017): 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after an initiation ritual involving extreme alcohol consumption. Security cameras within the Beta Theta Pi house captured Piazza falling repeatedly and suffering severe internal injuries, including a ruptured spleen and traumatic brain injuries, while fraternity brothers delayed calling for medical help for nearly 12 hours. The aftermath involved dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation with confidential settlements, and the passage of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, a strict felony hazing statute. This case painfully exposed how a culture of extreme intoxication, combined with a deliberate delay in seeking medical aid and a pervasive code of silence, can be legally devastating for both individuals and organizations.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (November 2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and forced to consume large quantities rapidly. Multiple members faced criminal hazing charges, and Florida State University temporarily suspended all Greek life activities in response, overhauling its policies. Coffey’s death grimly demonstrated that formulaic “tradition” drinking nights with an emphasis on overwhelming consumption are a recurring script for disaster, regardless of the campus.
• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (September 2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers led to forced consumption of 190-proof alcohol. His death directly led to the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, which made hazing resulting in death a felony with jail time. A civil lawsuit against his fraternity and others resulted in a $6.1 million verdict against a member and the chapter’s insurer after confidential settlements with many other defendants. Max’s case powerfully showcased how legislative change and significant monetary judgments often follow public outrage and clear proof of pattern-based hazing.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (March 2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, died after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” initiation night. This tragedy resulted in multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members, with the university and the national fraternity facing significant civil liability. Bowling Green State University, a public institution, agreed to a nearly $3 million settlement with the family, in addition to significant confidential settlements from the national Pi Kappa Alpha organization and individual defendants. The Foltz case underscored that universities, even public ones, can face substantial financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities when hazing policies are ignored and young lives are lost.

4.2 Physical & ritualized hazing pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and psychologically degrading rituals also represent a dangerous and enduring form of hazing:

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (December 2013): Michael Deng, an 18-year-old pledge, died during a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. He was subjected to a brutal blindfolded ritual called the “glass ceiling,” which involved him being forced to wear a weighted backpack and repeatedly tackled by fraternity members. Help was delayed for hours as members attempted a cover-up before finally seeking medical attention. Following his death, multiple members were criminally convicted, and the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity was convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter—a landmark case of organizational criminal liability. Pi Delta Psi was banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years. This case tragically demonstrated that off-campus “retreats” are often chosen precisely to provide cover for dangerous hazing, and that national organizations are not immune from severe sanctions, including criminal conviction, regardless of where the hazing occurs.
• Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (October 2021): While not fatal, this case vividly illustrates the catastrophic potential of non-fatal hazing. 18-year-old Danny Santulli was forced to consume excessive amounts of alcohol during a “pledge dad reveal” night. He suffered severe, permanent brain damage, rendering him unable to walk, talk, or see, and requiring 24/7 care. His family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants, including the fraternity, with multi-million-dollar settlements. The Santulli case became a powerful national example of the long-term, devastating consequences of hazing, spurring further discussion on accountability and adequate compensation for lifetime care.

4.3 Athletic program hazing & abuse

Hazing is not confined to Greek letter organizations; it is a pervasive problem that can plague athletic programs and other student groups.

• Northwestern University football (2023–2025): In a scandal that rocked collegiate athletics, former football players at Northwestern University came forward with allegations of widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program, spanning multiple years. The incidents included forced sexual acts, forced nudity, and racist verbal abuse. This led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern University and its coaching staff, the firing of long-time head football coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later confidentially settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit with the university), and significant institutional backlash. This case starkly demonstrated that hazing is a systemic issue extending far beyond Greek life, impacting high-profile, big-money athletic programs, and raising critical questions about institutional oversight and responsibility.
• Robert Champion – Florida A&M University Marching Band (2011): Drum major Robert Champion died after a brutal hazing ritual by fellow band members, which involved severe physical beatings on a band bus. His death led to multiple criminal convictions for first-degree felony hazing and a $1 million settlement with Florida A&M University. This case emphasized that hazing can occur in any student group, including esteemed performing arts organizations, and that universities can be held liable for failures in supervision.

4.4 What these cases mean for Texas families

These national tragedies share common, heartbreaking threads: forced drinking and drug use, physical violence, psychological torment, humiliating rituals, and critically, a pervasive culture of delayed medical care and cover-ups. In nearly all these instances, reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements or verdicts followed only after immense tragedy and determined litigation by victims’ families.

For Friendswood families sending their children to universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor, these national lessons are incredibly relevant. The same types of hazing incidents, often involving the same national fraternities and sororities, can and do occur in Texas. These precedents demonstrate that accountability is possible, that institutions can be held responsible, and that the fight for justice is a long, arduous, but ultimately vital one for preventing future harm.

5. TEXAS FOCUS: UH, TEXAS A&M, UT, SMU, BAYLOR

For Friendswood families, understanding the specific hazing dynamics at Texas’s major universities is crucial. Given our proximity, many of our children attend or consider institutions such as the University of Houston in our own Harris County or nearby powerhouses like Texas A&M and UT Austin. Each university has its unique culture, but all wrestle with the persistent problem of hazing and are now subject to increasing scrutiny from state and federal laws.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant urban campus right here in Harris County, serves a diverse student body, including many from Friendswood and throughout the Greater Houston area. With its mix of commuter and residential students, and a large, active Greek system, UH has faced its share of hazing challenges. Families in Friendswood often have a direct connection to UH, making understanding its hazing landscape particularly critical.

5.1.1 Campus & culture snapshot

UH is a Tier One research institution and a central hub for academic and social life in Houston. Its Greek Life community includes a wide array of fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural Greek councils). Beyond Greek life, UH boasts numerous student organizations, athletic teams, and spirit groups, all of which fall under the university’s anti-hazing policies. The dynamic, fast-paced environment of a large urban university can sometimes create conditions where hazing can flourish beneath the surface.

5.1.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly stating that hazing is prohibited whether it occurs on campus or off-campus. The policy explicitly forbids forced consumption of alcohol, drugs, or food; sleep deprivation; physical mistreatment; and any actions that cause mental distress as part of initiation or affiliation. UH provides multiple reporting channels through the Dean of Students’ office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). UH’s website also features a hazing statement and information on prevention.

5.1.3 Example incident & response

In 2016, a particularly egregious incident involving the Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) fraternity at UH made headlines. Pledges were allegedly subjected to a multi-day hazing event where they were deprived of sufficient food, water, and sleep. One student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table or similar surface. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges from civil authorities and was subsequently suspended by the university. In other instances, various fraternities at UH have faced disciplinary action, including suspensions and probation, for actions deemed “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” such as alcohol misuse and other policy violations. While the level of public detail on these incidents can be limited compared to some other Texas universities, these events underscore UH’s ongoing struggle with hazing culture.

5.1.4 How a UH hazing case might proceed

If a hazing incident were to occur affecting a Friendswood student at UH, a civil case could involve several key steps. The involved law enforcement agencies might include both the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) and the Houston Police Department, depending on where the incident took place (on-campus vs. an off-campus fraternity house in Houston). Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Harris County courts, where Friendswood residents typically address legal matters. Potential defendants could include the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the University of Houston itself, along with any property owners involved. Our firm’s deep roots in Houston and extensive experience in Harris County courts are invaluable here.

5.1.5 What UH students & parents should do

For parents and students in Friendswood with ties to UH:

• Familiarize yourselves with UH’s specific hazing policies and reporting mechanisms. Know where and how to report to the Dean of Students, UHPD, or utilize online anonymous reporting forms.
• When reporting, collect and document any information on prior complaints or past incidents involving the same organization. This could include disciplinary records or anecdotal evidence you’ve heard from other students.
• If an incident occurs, prioritize immediate medical attention. Then, contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases. Our firm has a deep understanding of how to obtain prior disciplinary records and internal files that may not be readily available to the public, which is crucial for building a strong case.
• Encourage your child to confide in a trusted adult, counselor, or Attorney911. The fear of retaliation is real, but legal protections exist.
• Be aware of the distinction between the university’s internal disciplinary process and your legal right to pursue civil action. Often, university sanctions don’t adequately compensate for the harm suffered.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University in College Station holds a unique place in Texas higher education, known for its deep-rooted traditions, “Aggie Spirit,” and the storied Corps of Cadets. While geographically distant from Friendswood, many families from our community proudly send their students to become Aggies. The university’s strong emphasis on tradition, while often positive, can also create an environment where hazing may hide behind established customs.

5.2.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Texas A&M’s identity is heavily influenced by its military heritage and the pervasive “Aggie Network.” The Corps of Cadets is a cornerstone, fostering a regimented, discipline-focused culture that some argue can sometimes blur the lines between tough training and outright hazing. Greek life also thrives, offering various fraternities and sororities. The strong sense of loyalty and insular nature of some A&M groups can make reporting hazing particularly challenging for students.

5.2.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

Texas A&M explicitly prohibits hazing and provides detailed definitions in its student rules, which align with the Texas Education Code. The university’s hazing webpage outlines the various forms of hazing and encourages reporting through the Office of Student Conduct, the Corps of Cadets leadership (if applicable), or the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD). The university also provides anonymous reporting options.

5.2.3 Example incident & response

Texas A&M has seen multiple high-profile hazing incidents. In 2021, a lawsuit was filed against Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) where two pledges alleged they were subjected to brutal hazing. This included having industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit poured on them, resulting in severe chemical burns that required skin graft surgeries. The fraternity chapter was suspended for two years by the university. More recently, in 2023, a former Corps of Cadets member filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing that included simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. He sought over $1 million, and while A&M stated it handled the matter under its rules, it highlighted ongoing concerns within the Corps regarding traditional “D&C” (discipline and corrective training) practices morphing into hazing.

These incidents underscore the need for vigilance even in institutions with strong disciplinary structures. Our firm is also handling an ongoing case from 2023 where Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ) pledges at Texas A&M suffered rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) due to alleged extreme physical hazing. This highlights the severe medical consequences that can arise from physically demanding hazing rituals disguised as “workouts.”

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases originating from Texas A&M often involve complex dynamics given the university’s size, its Corps culture, and varied organizational structures. Investigations may involve TAMUPD, Brazos County Sheriff’s Office, and potentially other state agencies. Civil lawsuits would typically proceed in Brazos County courts, impacting families from College Station, Bryan, and the broader Brazos Valley. Potential defendants would again include individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and the university itself.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M students & parents should do

For Friendswood families with Aggie students:

• Recognize the specific cultural cues at Texas A&M. Understand that “tradition” is deeply ingrained, and some behaviors, while presented as character-building, can cross into hazing.
• Educate yourselves on both Greek life and Corps of Cadets hazing policies. The reporting channels and specific protocols might differ slightly between the two.
• If your child is in the Corps or a Greek organization, look for signs of excessive physical strain, sleep deprivation, or secrecy. The Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ) rhabdomyolysis case (where pledges suffered severe muscle breakdown from extreme physical hazing) underscores the acute dangers of forced, intense physical activity.
• Encourage immediate reporting to TAMUPD or the Office of Student Conduct if hazing occurs, but also contact an experienced hazing attorney. Early legal intervention can help ensure evidence is preserved before campus authorities conduct investigations that may or may not capture the full scope of the incident.
• Be prepared for potential internal resistance to hazing reporting within highly traditional organizations. Our firm can provide protection and advocacy.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, the flagship institution of the UT System, draws students from across the state, including many from Friendswood and Harris County. Known for its vibrant academic and social scene, UT’s Greek system and numerous student organizations have long been under scrutiny for hazing. UT is notable for its relatively transparent approach to documenting violations.

5.3.1 Campus & culture snapshot

UT Austin is a sprawling campus with a rich history, a fiercely competitive academic environment, and a dynamic Greek life scene. Its proximity to downtown Austin cultivates a bustling social landscape, with many fraternity and sorority houses located immediately off-campus. Beyond Greek organizations, UT hosts countless student groups, athletics, and spirit organizations, including highly selective groups like the Texas Cowboys (which has faced its own hazing issues in the past).

5.3.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

The University of Texas at Austin has a comprehensive and accessible hazing prevention website (hazing.utexas.edu) that clearly outlines its anti-hazing policy, which strictly prohibits all forms of hazing. UT is commendably transparent, maintaining a public Hazing Violations page that lists organizations, dates of incidents, a summary of the conduct, and the resulting disciplinary actions. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students, the Behavior Concerns Advice Line (BCAL), the UT Police Department (UTPD), and anonymous online forms.

5.3.3 Example incident & response

UT Austin’s public hazing log provides a valuable, albeit concerning, insight into ongoing hazing issues. For example, Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) was sanctioned in 2023 for new members being directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, followed by cleanup activities. The chapter was placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education. Other organizations, including the Texas Wranglers spirit group, have been sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices targeting new members. While UT’s transparency in reporting is a positive step toward accountability, the persistent nature of these violations shows that the problem remains an ongoing battle. The 2024 lawsuit against Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) stemming from an alleged assault at a fraternity party, which caused the exchange student severe injuries, further highlights the potential for violence in these environments. The chapter was already under suspension for prior hazing/safety violations, demonstrating a pattern of institutional failure.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases at UT Austin can involve investigations by UTPD and/or the Austin Police Department, especially if incidents occur at off-campus houses in Austin. Civil lawsuits for students from Friendswood or elsewhere would typically be filed in Travis County courts. Given UT’s public record of violations, past disciplinary actions against a fraternity or organization can become powerful evidence in a civil suit, demonstrating prior knowledge and a pattern of negligence by the university or national chapter. Our firm’s Austin office allows a local presence to assist these families.

5.3.5 What UT Austin students & parents should do

For Friendswood families with students aspiring to or attending UT Austin:

• Regularly check UT Austin’s official Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu). This resource is invaluable for understanding which organizations have a history of misconduct.
• Be aware of the distinction between university-imposed sanctions and external legal action. While UT may suspend an organization, that process often does not provide financial recovery for victims.
• If hazing occurs, ensure all incidents are meticulously documented. UT’s transparency can be an asset, but securing legal counsel from our Austin office immediately creates an independent pathway to justice.
• Encourage students to use UT’s confidential reporting channels, such as BCAL, but also to seek legal advice. An attorney can help determine if the university’s response is adequate and if civil action is warranted.
• For the SAE case, in particular, the alleged assault involved an Australian exchange student incurring significant injuries, prompting a multi-million-dollar lawsuit. This demonstrates how even in a prominent Greek system, violence can occur, and accountability can be pursued through civil litigation even for foreign students.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University in Dallas, a private institution, attracts students from affluent backgrounds across Texas and beyond, including Friendswood. SMU is well-known for its vibrant social scene and highly active Greek life, often drawing scrutiny related to campus culture and student behavior.

5.4.1 Campus & culture snapshot

SMU is characterized by its stunning campus, strong academic programs, and an active social environment deeply intertwined with its Greek system. Its location in a well-heeled area of Dallas means many fraternity and sorority houses are in close proximity, fostering a distinct social dynamic. The pressure to join specific organizations and conform to social expectations can be intense, sometimes creating a fertile ground for hazing within the context of exclusivity and tradition.

5.4.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

SMU strictly prohibits hazing across all student organizations, athletic teams, and spirit groups, aligning its policies with state law. The university’s website provides clear definitions of hazing and outlines various reporting avenues, including the Office of Student Conduct, the Dean of Students’ office, and SMU Police. SMU also promotes anonymous reporting systems to encourage students to come forward without fear of retribution.

5.4.3 Example incident & response

SMU has encountered hazing controversies, such as an incident involving the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity in 2017. New members were reportedly subjected to egregious hazing practices, including physical abuse (paddling), forced consumption of alcohol, and significant sleep deprivation. The chapter faced severe sanctions from the university, including a suspension that imposed significant restrictions on its activities and recruiting efforts for several years. While SMU, as a private institution, may not publicly disclose the granular detail of every incident like some public universities, these cases highlight its ongoing vigilance and disciplinary responses to hazing. More recently, in early 2024, Sigma Chi (ΣΧ) at the College of Charleston settled a hazing lawsuit for over $10 million after a pledge alleged physical beatings, forced drugs/alcohol, and psychological torment. This case, while not at SMU, is highly relevant as Sigma Chi has a chapter presence at SMU, and it underscores the substantial liability and damages possible for hazing within this well-known national fraternity.

5.4.4 How an SMU hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases at SMU, particularly those impacting students from Friendswood, would likely involve investigations by the SMU Police Department and potentially the Dallas Police Department for off-campus incidents. Civil lawsuits against SMU or its student organizations would typically be filed in Dallas County courts. As a private institution, SMU generally does not have the same sovereign immunity protections as public universities, potentially making it more directly susceptible to negligence claims. This can also mean that obtaining internal records might require different legal strategies than with public institutions.

5.4.5 What SMU students & parents should do

For Friendswood families with connections to SMU:

• Be vigilant for signs of hazing, understanding its forms may be subtle. The culture of exclusivity and desire to “fit in” at SMU can make students particularly vulnerable to psychological hazing and subtle coercion.
• Familiarize yourselves with SMU’s specific reporting procedures. The university’s commitment to anonymous reporting can be a vital channel for students to use safely.
• Understand that a private university’s internal investigations may not be publicly transparent. Securing legal counsel is often the most effective way to gain access to critical information and ensure thorough accountability.
• If an incident involves a national fraternity like Sigma Chi (ΣΧ), be aware of its national history of hazing incidents and settlements. This can inform initial legal strategy.
• Do not hesitate to contact Attorney911. Our team has extensive experience navigating complex civil litigation against private institutions and their affiliated organizations, always prioritizing the well-being and privacy of your child.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University in Waco, while smaller and more religiously affiliated than the other Texas institutions discussed, still has a vibrant Greek life and athletic programs. Students from Friendswood attend Baylor, drawn by its academics and Christian mission, but even in such an environment, the threat of hazing persists. Baylor’s history of public scrutiny over other campus misconduct has raised its overall accountability expectations.

5.5.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Baylor University is known for its strong Christian values, close-knit community, and a significant Greek presence. The emphasis on community and shared values, while generally positive, can sometimes lead to an intense pressure to conform within student groups. Its prominent athletic programs, particularly football and basketball, also command significant attention and can be susceptible to hazing culture.

5.5.2 Official hazing policy & reporting channels

Baylor University explicitly prohibits hazing, articulating a zero-tolerance policy that aligns with Texas state law. The university’s policies apply to all student organizations, athletic teams, and any other campus groups. Resources for reporting hazing include the Dean of Students’ office, the Department of Student Activities, the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD), and various anonymous reporting options, including the Baylor Ethics and Compliance Hotline.

5.5.3 Example incident & response

Baylor’s athletic programs have not been immune to hazing allegations. In 2020, 14 players from the Baylor baseball team were suspended following a hazing investigation. These suspensions were staggered over the early season to minimize team impact, yet the incident highlighted that hazing can affect even high-profile athletic programs at Baylor. This incident underscored the challenges Baylor faces in upholding its “zero-tolerance” policy amidst the pressures of competitive athletics and Greek life, particularly given its history of intense scrutiny over other campus misconduct, such as the major Title IX violations related to sexual assault.

5.5.4 How a Baylor hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases originating from Baylor University, including those involving students from Friendswood, would typically involve investigations by the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) and potentially the Waco Police Department. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in McLennan County courts. As a private university, Baylor generally doesn’t benefit from sovereign immunity protections. However, the unique nature of Baylor’s internal processes and cultural emphasis may present distinct challenges in discovery and litigation, which an experienced attorney can help navigate.

5.5.5 What Baylor students & parents should do

For Friendswood families with ties to Baylor:

• Be aware that hazing can occur even within organizations operating under a religious ethos. The desire to build loyalty or unity can sometimes be misdirected into abusive practices.
• Familiarize yourselves with Baylor’s specific reporting channels, especially the Baylor Ethics and Compliance Hotline, which offers anonymity.
• If hazing is suspected or occurs, document everything meticulously, including any communication with university officials. Baylor’s internal disciplinary processes are separate from legal action and may not provide the full compensation and accountability a family deserves.
• Consider consulting with an experienced hazing attorney immediately. Our firm understands the complexities of pursuing claims against private institutions and can help families in Friendswood navigate the specific challenges that may arise at Baylor.
• The Baylor baseball hazing case serves as a reminder that athletic programs, despite strict policies, can still be environments where hazing persists, making vigilance essential.

6. FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES: CAMPUS-SPECIFIC + NATIONAL HISTORIES

For Friendswood families, understanding the connection between local chapters at Texas universities and their national organizations is crucial in hazing cases. Many fraternities and sororities operating at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are not isolated entities; they are part of larger national structures. These national organizations often have extensive histories, including repeated hazing incidents that highlight patterns of negligence and a failure to enforce their own anti-hazing policies effectively.

6.1 Why national histories matter

The reason national histories are so important is simple: foreseeability and notice. National headquarters typically have vast amounts of data—incident reports, disciplinary records, and lawsuits—from chapters across the country. They often have thick anti-hazing manuals, extensive risk management policies, and mandatory training programs precisely because they have already witnessed deaths, catastrophic injuries, and severe emotional trauma within their own organizations. They know the patterns of forced drinking nights, public humiliation, and violent rituals.

When a local chapter at a Texas university, perhaps involving a student from Friendswood, repeats the same hazing script that previously led to a death or severe injury at another chapter in a different state, it gravely undermines any defense that the national organization “didn’t know” or “couldn’t have foreseen” the danger. This pattern evidence can be a powerful tool in civil litigation, demonstrating that the national entity had constructive knowledge of dangerous behaviors and failed to adequately intervene, supervise, or enforce its rules. Such evidence can strongly support arguments for negligence and even punitive damages against national entities.

6.2 Organization mapping (synthesized)

While myriad fraternities and sororities operate across Texas campuses, certain national organizations disproportionately appear in hazing incidents and lawsuits. Here, we outline some of the major fraternities and sororities with a presence at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor, and connect them to their documented national hazing histories. This is not an exhaustive list, but rather snapshots of patterns that could impact students from Friendswood:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity is present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor, among others. Nationally, Pike has a tragic and well-documented history of severe hazing, particularly involving forced alcohol consumption.
  • Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University, 2021): As previously detailed, a pledge died from alcohol poisoning after an initiation event, leading to criminal convictions, significant settlements against the national fraternity, and the university.
  • David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois University, 2012): Another Pike pledge died from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event, resulting in a $14 million settlement for his family.
    These cases, and many others, demonstrate a recurring script of forced drinking during “Big/Little” nights, which can weigh heavily in arguments of national foreseeability when hazing occurs at a Texas Pike chapter.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU, SAE has nationally faced a pattern of hazing-related deaths and severe injuries, leading them to famously eliminate their traditional pledge process in 2014. However, hazing incidents persist.
  • University of Alabama (2023): A lawsuit filed alleged a pledge suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual.
  • Texas A&M University (2021): Two pledges alleged chemical burns from industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit during hazing.
  • University of Texas at Austin (2024): A student sued the chapter for over $1 million after being assaulted at a party.
    These incidents suggest a national organization that, despite policy changes, continues to struggle with hazing culture, creating a strong case for prior notice if new incidents arise in Texas.
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): With chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, Phi Delta Theta’s national record is also scrutinized.
  • Max Gruver (Louisiana State University, 2017): As noted, the death of Max Gruver during a forced drinking game led to Louisiana’s felony hazing statute and a $6.1 million verdict. This incident set a crucial precedent for national and individual accountability.
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Present at UH, Texas A&M, and UT, this fraternity has similar national patterns.
  • Andrew Coffey (Florida State University, 2017): The pledge’s death from acute alcohol poisoning during initiation reinforced the dangers of forced drinking rituals.
• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ): Found at Texas A&M and SMU, this fraternity has faced hazing allegations.
  • SMU Chapter (2017): The local chapter was suspended for paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation, demonstrating recurrent issues within the organization.
• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU.
  • Timothy Piazza (Penn State University, 2017): Piazza’s tragic death from a fall and alcohol poisoning, and the subsequent cover-up, remains one of the most visible modern hazing cases, leading to widespread reforms and legal changes.
• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): With chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, Sigma Chi’s national history is significant.
  • College of Charleston (2024): A staggering settlement of over $10 million was awarded to a pledge who suffered physical beatings, forced consumption of drugs and alcohol, and psychological torment. This case, while not in Texas, demonstrates the massive liabilities national fraternities can face for severe hazing and its long-term physical and psychological harm.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Found at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor.
  • Chad Meredith (University of Miami, 2001): A jury awarded Meredith’s parents $12.6 million after his death by drowning following forced drinking and a dare to swim across a lake. This led to a law named in his honor that criminalized hazing in Florida.
  • Texas A&M University (2023): As mentioned earlier, pledges in the Kappa Sigma chapter experienced severe rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) due to alleged extreme physical hazing. This ongoing litigation highlights that physical exertion can be as deadly as alcohol.
• Alpha Phi Alpha (ΑΦΑ): Present at UH, UT, SMU, and Baylor (NPHC chapters), this historically Black Greek letter fraternity has national policies against hazing, but incidents can occur.
  • Morehouse College (1989) and Cornell University (1995): These older cases, involving physical beatings and a life-threatening infection, illustrate deep-seated historical issues with hazing, which national organizations have been fighting to eradicate for decades.

6.3 Tie back to legal strategy

These documented national and campus-specific patterns are not just historical footnotes; they are powerful legal tools. They demonstrate that certain organizations had repeated warnings about the dangers of hazing and often failed to implement sufficient changes. In civil litigation, particularly for families from Friendswood or elsewhere in Texas whose children attend these universities, our legal strategy often involves:

• Proving Foreseeability: Showing that the national organization knew or should have known about the specific type of hazing that occurred, given its history within that fraternity or sorority.
• Establishing Negligence: Arguing that the national body was negligent in supervising, training, or disciplining its chapters, creating an environment where hazing was allowed to flourish.
• Addressing Insurance Coverage: Leveraging national hazing histories to push back against insurance companies’ attempts to deny coverage by claiming “unforeseeable” acts or “intentional tort” exclusions.
• Seeking Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious conduct and a clear pattern of ignored warnings, these histories can support claims for punitive damages, designed to punish reckless behavior and deter future hazing.
• Demonstrating Institutional Indifference: When universities repeatedly suspend the same chapters or witness similar incidents without effective long-term solutions, these patterns can demonstrate institutional indifference, bolstering claims against the university itself.

The Manginello Law Firm meticulously researches these histories to build robust cases for accountability against all negligent parties, ensuring that the lessons from past tragedies are not forgotten and contribute to preventing future harm.

7. BUILDING A CASE: EVIDENCE, DAMAGES, STRATEGY

When a hazing incident turns tragic or causes severe injury, the legal process becomes a critical avenue for answers, accountability, and compensation. For families in Friendswood facing such a crisis, understanding how a strong legal case is built can provide clarity and a path forward. Our firm’s approach is methodical, leveraging deep investigative resources and complex litigation strategies honed over decades of challenging powerful defendants.

7.1 Evidence: The Foundation of a Strong Case

In hazing litigation, evidence is paramount. It tells the story, establishes fault, and quantifies damages. In the digital age, much of this evidence exists in ephemeral forms, making swift, expert collection essential.

• Digital Communications: This is often the most critical category of evidence in modern hazing cases. Group chats on platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, and even fraternity-specific apps can reveal planning, peer pressure, coercion, and real-time events. Direct messages on Instagram, Snapchat, and other social media platforms are equally vital. These communications show:
  • Who was involved in planning and executing the hazing.
  • The specific instructions given to pledges.
  • Evidence of coercion or threats of exclusion.
  • Real-time discussions and even cover-up attempts.
  • Crucially, they can reveal a pattern of behavior over time.
    Our team understands how to work with digital forensic experts to recover deleted messages and authenticate digital content, which is often necessary when students attempt to erase their tracks.
• Photos & Videos: In an age where everyone carries a camera, visual evidence is abundant. This includes:
  • Content filmed by members during hazing events, often for entertainment or to document compliance.
  • Photos or videos shared in group chats or posted (even briefly) on social media.
  • Surveillance footage from university cameras, private residences (e.g., Ring cameras), or commercial venues where hazing occurred. This footage can provide irrefutable proof of what transpired.
• Internal Organization Documents: These documents can expose a gap between stated policies and actual practice:
  • Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, or “ritual books” that may describe abusive traditions.
  • Emails or text messages from chapter officers about “new member education” that use euphemisms for hazing.
  • National fraternity/sorority policies, risk management guidelines, and training materials, which can establish what the national body knew or should have known about hazing risks.
• University Records: Universities often have a wealth of relevant documents:
  • Prior conduct files related to the specific chapter or individuals, documenting past hazing violations, probations, or suspensions.
  • Incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices.
  • Clery Act reports and other transparency disclosures, which can indicate a pattern of safety failures.
  • Internal emails among administrators discussing the organization or specific hazing allegations, which can be obtained through discovery in a lawsuit or public records requests at public universities.
• Medical and Psychological Records: These documents are essential for proving the extent of the harm suffered:
  • Emergency room and hospitalization records, including ambulance reports, initial assessments, and toxicology reports (for alcohol/drug consumption).
  • Records from surgeries, ongoing treatments, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
  • Psychological evaluations and therapy notes documenting conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation resulting from the hazing. For a brain injury victim, specialized neurological assessments and life care plans become critical.
• Witness Testimony: The accounts of individuals who observed or participated in the hazing are invaluable:
  • Other pledges who endured the same experiences.
  • Chapter members who may have had a change of conscience or were pressured to participate.
  • Roommates, RAs, coaches, or other university staff who observed changes in the victim’s behavior.
  • Former members who previously left the organization due to hazing practices.
  • Bystanders at an off-campus event.

7.2 Damages: Fair Compensation for Deep Harm

In civil hazing lawsuits, the goal of damages is to financially compensate the victim and their family for every aspect of the harm suffered. This includes both easily quantifiable financial losses and the often-more-significant subjective categories of pain and suffering.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs associated with the victim’s physical and mental recovery, from immediate emergency room visits and ambulance transport to ongoing physical and occupational therapy, specialist consultations, medications, and potential future surgeries. For catastrophic injuries like a traumatic brain injury (as in the Danny Santulli case), damages also include the cost of a long-term life care plan, which can involve 24/7 care for the remainder of the victim’s life.
• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This category accounts for financial losses due to the hazing. It includes lost wages if the victim or a parent had to take time off work, as well as the significant impact on the victim’s education and future career prospects. This can mean tuition lost from missed semesters, lost scholarships, delayed graduation, and a diminished lifetime earning capacity if the injuries result in permanent disability or psychological conditions that impair employability.
• Non-Economic Damages: These are often the largest component of damages in severe hazing cases and address the intangible but profound impact on the victim’s life:
  • Physical Pain and Suffering: This covers the acute pain from injuries, chronic pain from permanent damage, and the overall physical discomfort endured.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: This category includes compensation for conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and other mental health challenges. It also covers the profound humiliation, shame, loss of dignity, fear, and shattered trust experienced by the victim.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: This accounts for the victim’s inability to participate in activities they once loved (sports, hobbies, social life), the withdrawal from a normal college experience, and the disruption to relationships.
• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the devastating event of a hazing death, surviving family members (parents, children, and sometimes siblings, depending on Texas law) can seek compensation for:
  • Funeral and Burial Costs.
  • Loss of Financial Support: Calculated based on the deceased’s projected lifetime earnings and financial contributions to the family.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Society: This covers the profound emotional void left by the loss of a loved one.
  • Grief and Emotional Suffering: The intense emotional pain experienced by family members.
  • Loss of Guidance and Counsel: Especially significant for younger siblings who lose an older role model.

7.3 Role of different defendants and insurance coverage

Hazing cases are rarely simple. They typically involve multiple defendants, each with their own legal counsel and, critically, their own insurance policies. Navigating the complex landscape of insurance coverage is a specialized skill our firm excels at, thanks in part to Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney.

• Insurance Policies: National fraternities, universities, and sometimes even local chapters carry substantial insurance policies designed to cover general liability, including injuries on their premises or arising from their activities. Individual members might also have coverage through homeowner’s or umbrella policies.
• Exclusions and Disputes: Insurers frequently attempt to deny coverage for hazing incidents, claiming exclusions for “intentional acts,” “criminal conduct,” or “abuse.” They may also argue the incident was “unforeseeable” or occurred off-premises, outside the scope of coverage.
• Our Strategic Approach: Our experienced hazing attorneys know how to:
  • Identify all potential sources of insurance coverage: From national fraternity policies to university umbrella policies and individual family policies.
  • Challenge wrongful denials: Frame the case as negligent supervision (vs. purely intentional acts) to bring it within coverage parameters.
  • Force insurers to defend: Even if coverage is disputed, insurers often have a duty to provide defense counsel, which transfers the cost of litigation to them.
  • Negotiate strategically: Leverage the threat of bad faith lawsuits against insurers if they unreasonably deny valid claims.

The intricacies of insurance law are a battleground in hazing cases. Our firm’s comprehensive understanding of this “playbook” is a distinct advantage for families in pursuit of justice.

8. PRACTICAL GUIDES & FAQS

For parents and students in Friendswood facing hazing, timely and accurate information is vital. We want to empower you with specific actions you can take to protect yourselves and your loved ones. This section provides immediate guidance for parents, students, and even former members or witnesses.

8.1 For parents: Recognizing &Responding to Hazing

Parents are on the front lines of detecting hazing, even when their children are reluctant to speak out.

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:
Be alert to a combination of these indicators:

• Physical signs: Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries (especially if excuses don’t add up); extreme fatigue, exhaustion beyond normal college stress; sudden or significant weight loss or gain; sleep deprivation; signs of alcohol poisoning or drug use (even in a child who doesn’t typically drink or use drugs).
• Behavioral & emotional changes: Sudden secrecy about fraternity/sorority activities such as “I can’t talk about it”; withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-Greek activities; noticeable personality changes (anxiety, depression, irritability, anger); defensiveness when asked about the organization; expressing fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down.”
• Academic red flags: Grades dropping suddenly; missing classes or falling asleep in class; skipping exams or assignments for “mandatory” events.
• Financial red flags: Unexpected large expenses; forced purchases; requests for money without clear explanation.
• Digital/social behavior: Constant phone use for group chat monitoring; anxiety when phone pings; deleting messages or clearing browser history obsessively; receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response; social media posts showing humiliating or concerning activities; new geo-location tracking apps on their phone.

How to talk to your child:
Approach the conversation with empathy, not judgment. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things going with your group? Are you enjoying it?” or “What do they ask you to do as a new member?” Emphasize that their safety is your top priority and that you will support them no matter what. If they open up, listen without interruption or blame.

If your child is hurt:

• Get them medical care immediately. If it’s an emergency, call 911. Document that the injuries resulted from hazing.
• Document everything. This includes taking photographs of injuries (multiple angles, over several days), screenshotting any relevant texts or social media posts your child shows you, and writing down every detail your child shares (who, what, when, where).
• Dealing with the university: Document every interaction with university administrators. Ask specifically about any prior incidents involving the same organization and what the school did in response. Do not sign anything without legal review.
• When to talk to a lawyer: If your child suffers significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing what happened, contact an experienced hazing attorney immediately.

8.2 For students / pledges: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

If you are a student and fear you are being hazed, remember: you are not alone, and you have rights.

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

• Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t truly want to do?
• Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Would the university or my parents approve if they knew what was happening?
• Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
• Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?
  If you answered yes to any of these, it is likely hazing. Your safety and well-being are more important than “earning” membership.

Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story:
Under Texas law (Texas Education Code § 37.155), consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts and universities recognize that true consent is impossible when there’s an inherent power imbalance, intense peer pressure, a desperate desire to belong, or fear of exclusion. You cannot truly “agree” to be harmed.

Exiting and Reporting Safely:

• If you are in immediate danger, call 911 immediately. Your physical safety comes first.
• You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time. If you fear retaliation, notify a trusted non-member adult (parent, professor, RA, counselor) first.
• Report hazing privately or anonymously. Most campuses have online reporting forms, anonymous tip lines, or resources like the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE).
• Good-faith reporting and amnesty: Many schools and Texas law offer protections (immunity or amnesty) for students who report hazing or call for help in an emergency, even if they were consuming alcohol underage or were involved in the hazing themselves. Your well-being is prioritized.

8.3 For former members / witnesses: Your Role in Accountability

If you were once involved in hazing, perhaps as a participant or witness, and now regret it or want to help, you have a crucial role to play in accountability and prevention.

• Your testimony can save lives: The information you possess can be vital in preventing future tragedies and holding responsible parties accountable.
• Seek legal advice for yourself: If you participated, you may have legal exposure. An attorney can advise you on your rights, potential liabilities, and how to navigate cooperation with authorities or civil litigation while protecting your own interests. The Manginello Law Firm has extensive experience in criminal defense (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) and can assist current or former members with navigating these complex waters.
• Cooperation can be a path towards healing: Many former members find that coming forward, even years later, helps them process their guilt and contributes to a greater good.

8.4 Critical mistakes that can destroy your case

When hazing occurs, the immediate aftermath is chaotic, and critical errors can jeopardize a victim’s ability to seek justice. For Friendswood families, being aware of these common missteps is paramount. Our firm has seen how these mistakes can complicate even the strongest cases.

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence.
   • What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble,” or “It’s too embarrassing.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This can appear as a deliberate cover-up, makes evidence recovery much harder (though not impossible for experts), and can severely undermine a case. Digital evidence is often the smoking gun.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, no matter how embarrassing. Screenshots should include full threads, timestamps, and participant names. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices.
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 almost always leads to the organization immediately retaining legal counsel, destroying evidence, coaching witnesses, and preparing their defense — often before you’ve even had a chance to consult with an attorney.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in private. Then, contact an experienced hazing attorney before any direct confrontation.
3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms.
   • What universities do: They may pressure families into signing agreements that resolve the issue internally, sometimes offering minor concessions or counseling.
   • Why it’s wrong: Such forms can include clauses that waive your right to pursue further legal action. Internal resolutions rarely provide adequate compensation for medical bills, trauma, or lost educational opportunities.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university without having it thoroughly reviewed by your attorney 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.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Anything posted on public social media can be discovered by defense attorneys, used against your child to attack their credibility, or reveal sensitive information that harms your case. It can also be seen as an admission if your child posted anything that could be misconstrued.
   • What to do instead: Document your story privately. Let your legal team control public messaging to ensure it aligns with your legal strategy.
5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting” or “talk it out.”
   • What fraternities/organizations say: “Come in to talk to us before you do anything drastic,” or “We just want to hear your side.”
   • Why it’s wrong: These meetings are often designed to pressure the victim, intimidate them, or extract statements that can be used against them later in legal proceedings.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, advise your child that all communication with the organization must go through your attorney.
6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it.”
   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating this thoroughly; please let us handle this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: While university investigations serve their purpose, they move slowly, evidence can disappear, witnesses graduate, and organizations may destroy records during this waiting period. The university’s priority is often to mitigate its own liability and protect its public image, not necessarily to secure full justice for your child.
   • What to do instead: Preserve all evidence immediately. Consult with a lawyer right away. While the university process may run concurrently, it does not replace the need for independent legal action.
7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer.
   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim quickly and easily.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters represent the insurance company’s interests, not yours. Recorded statements are often used to find inconsistencies, and early settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to provide any statement and inform them that your attorney will be in contact.

These mistakes can significantly impair a case. Attorney911’s video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) offers more detailed insights into protecting your legal claim. For specific guidance on how your Texas hazing lawsuit may be impacted by the statute of limitations, please see our video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c).

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 have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities like SMU and Baylor often have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.
• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. Texas law classifies basic hazing as a Class B misdemeanor. However, if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it escalates to a state jail felony, carrying significant penalties. Individuals who are officers or members of an organization and fail to report hazing can also face criminal charges.
• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that in environments with extreme peer pressure, power imbalances, and fear of exclusion or retaliation, a student’s “agreement” to participate is often coerced and not truly voluntary.
• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”
  Generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims (including hazing lawsuits) in Texas is two years from the date of injury or death. However, certain circumstances, such as the “discovery rule” (where the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known) or fraudulent concealment of evidence, may extend this period. Time is always critical—evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations can destroy records. We strongly advise contacting Attorney911 immediately.
• “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/sororities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability of hazardous activities, even if they occur off-campus. Many major hazing cases resulting in multi-million-dollar judgments have occurred at off-campus houses or private retreats, including the Pi Delta Psi case involving Michael Deng and the Sigma Pi case involving Collin Wiant.
• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing lawsuits, particularly those brought by experienced attorneys, are resolved through confidential settlements before going to trial. Our firm prioritizes your family’s privacy and works diligently to protect your child’s identity while still pursuing full accountability and compensation. We can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms.

9. ABOUT THE MANGINELLO LAW FIRM + CALL TO ACTION

When your family faces the profound trauma of a hazing incident, you need more than just a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and possess the unique expertise and tenacity to win. For families in Friendswood, Pearland, Pasadena, League City, and across Harris County and the Greater Houston area, The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, is dedicated to this fight.

9.1 Why Attorney911 for hazing cases

We are a Houston-based Texas personal injury firm with deep experience in serious injury, wrongful death, and complex institutional accountability cases. Our firm’s qualifications are exceptionally suited to the unique, challenging landscape of hazing litigation.

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), brings invaluable insight. As a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm, Lupe knows precisely how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, their coverage exclusion arguments, and their settlement strategies because she used to run their playbook. This insider knowledge gives us a critical advantage in navigating the intricate insurance battles that often define these cases.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/), has a proven track record of taking on formidable opponents. He was one of the few Texas firms involved in the massive BP Texas City explosion litigation, and his extensive federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, multi-billion-dollar universities, or their well-funded defense teams. We’ve taken on powerful corporations and won; we know how to fight for David against Goliath.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We don’t settle cheap. We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, collaborating with economists to meticulously value loss of life and future earning potential. Our experience extends to catastrophic injury cases, where we work with life care planners and medical experts to account for lifelong care needs stemming from traumatic brain injuries (like in the Danny Santulli case) or other permanent disabilities. Our mission is to build cases that force accountability and secure comprehensive compensation.
• Dual Civil and Criminal Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a crucial understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual perspective is invaluable, allowing us to advise victims, witnesses, and even former members on their intersecting criminal exposures and civil rights. For more on our criminal defense capabilities, visit https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.
• Unmatched Investigative Depth: We conduct investigations as if your child’s life depends on it—because it does. Our network of experts includes medical professionals, digital forensic specialists, economists, and psychologists. We are experts at obtaining hidden evidence, including deleted group chats, social media archives, national fraternity records showing prior incidents, and uncovering university files through sophisticated discovery methods and public records requests.
• Understanding the Culture of Collegiate Organizations: We meticulously investigate how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments actually work behind closed doors. We understand the nuanced culture of “tradition,” loyalty, and secrecy that often fuels hazing, and we know how to expose the systemic failures that allow it to continue.

Our firm is founded on empathy and victim advocacy. We understand that facing a hazing incident is one of the hardest things a family can endure. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We believe in thorough investigation and real accountability, not bravado or quick, undervalued settlements.

9.2 Call to action

If you or your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether it’s the University of Houston right here in Harris County, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other institution—we want to hear from you. Families in Friendswood, Clear Lake, Webster, Dickinson, and throughout the Greater Houston area have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will thoughtfully listen to your story without judgment, review any evidence you may have, explain your legal options (whether that’s a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, or both), and help you decide on the best path forward for your family. There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; our priority is to equip you with the information you need. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we don’t get paid unless we win your case. For a detailed explanation of our fee structure, watch our video: “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc).

You don’t have to face this alone. Reach out to 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. For a consultation in Spanish, please contact Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

Reading this article provides general information and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Every hazing case is unique, and we cannot guarantee specific outcomes. An experienced attorney from our team can review your specific facts, explain your rights under Texas law, and help you understand your best options. Whether you’re in Friendswood or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you deserve powerful legal representation. 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