Hazing in Texas: A Definitive Guide for Families in Katy and Beyond

The late-night call comes, a parent’s deepest fear realized. Your child, a bright, ambitious student from Katy, is at an off-campus fraternity house near their university. It’s “initiation night,” and they’re under immense pressure to participate in a series of degrading and dangerous acts. The air is thick with the smell of spilled liquor, the room reverberating with chants and nervous laughter. Someone collapses, either from too much alcohol or a brutal physical test, but no one wants to call 911 because they’re terrified of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.” Your child feels trapped—torn between loyalty to a group they desperately want to join and the primal instinct for self-preservation. A few hours later, your phone rings, not with their voice, but with that of an emergency room doctor.

This terrifying scenario, unfortunately, is not a fictional tale. It’s a reality that plays out in various forms on campuses across Texas and nationwide. For families in Katy, whether your child is attending the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or another institution, the dream of a college education and independence can quickly turn into a nightmare when hazing takes hold.

This guide is designed as a comprehensive resource for families in Katy and throughout Texas who need to understand the complex world of hazing. We will explore what hazing truly looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes to reveal the insidious, often hidden tactics employed by student organizations. We’ll examine how Texas and federal laws address hazing, providing clarity on the legal framework that protects students. Crucially, we’ll connect major national hazing cases to what is happening right here in Texas, at institutions like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor. We’ll delve into the specific histories of fraternities and sororities, showing why their past conduct matters in understanding current risks. Finally, we will outline the legal options available to victims and families in Katy and across the state, explaining how an experienced personal injury firm approaches these sensitive and complex cases.

Please remember that while this article provides extensive information, it is general in nature and not specific legal advice. Every hazing incident is unique, with its own set of facts and legal considerations. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, is dedicated to evaluating individual cases with the care and expertise they demand, and we serve families throughout Texas, including our neighbors in Katy and the surrounding Harris County communities.

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, for families in Katy and beyond:

• 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 direct messages immediately. Digital evidence vanishes quickly.
  • Photograph any visible injuries from multiple angles and with good lighting.
  • Save any physical items that could be evidence, such as damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or objects used in the hazing.
• Write down everything while your memory is fresh: who was involved, what happened, when and where it occurred. Include names, dates, times, and specific descriptions.
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or individuals involved directly. This can lead to evidence destruction or retaliation.
  • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal advice. These documents often waive your rights.
  • Post details of the incident on public social media. This can compromise your legal case.
  • Allow your child to delete messages or “clean up” any evidence. This is crucial.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast: group chats are deleted, physical objects are hidden, and witnesses are coached.
• Universities often move quickly to control the narrative and conduct internal investigations, which may not prioritize external accountability.
• We can help you preserve critical evidence and protect your child’s rights from the very beginning.
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For families in Katy, the word “hazing” might still conjure images from movies – silly pranks, late-night chores, or mild inconveniences. However, hazing in 2025 has transcended these outdated perceptions, becoming an increasingly dangerous and insidious practice. It’s no longer just about “boys will be boys” or “earning your stripes”; contemporary hazing often involves severe physical and psychological torment, alcohol poisoning, and even death, carried out under a veil of secrecy and coercion.

A Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

At its core, hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits an individual. This definition is crucial because it highlights the element of compulsion, even if subtle. When there is group pressure, a power imbalance, or the fear of social exclusion, an individual’s “agreement” to participate does not automatically make the activity safe or legal.

Main Categories of Hazing

Modern hazing manifests in several disturbing categories, often overlapping in a single incident:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is tragically one of the most common and deadliest forms. It involves forced or coerced drinking, often through chugging challenges, “lineups” where specific drinks must be consumed in order, or games specifically designed for rapid, dangerous consumption. Pledges may be pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances, leading to blackouts, alcohol poisoning, and severe injury or death. This is frequently seen during “Big/Little” reveal nights, which have proven fatal in many cases nationally.
• Physical Hazing: Far beyond mere exercise, this category includes brutal acts like paddling and beatings, often disguised as “tradition.” Pledges might be subjected to extreme calisthenics, mock “workouts,” or “smokings” (punitive exercises) that go far beyond healthy limits and are used for punishment. Sleep deprivation is common, involving mandatory late-night events, early morning “wake-ups,” and multi-day activities with minimal rest. Food and water deprivation are also tactics, sometimes coupled with exposure to extreme cold or heat, or being forced into dangerous environments. Injuries like rhabdomyolysis, a severe muscle breakdown from overexertion, are also reported, as seen in recent Kappa Sigma hazing allegations at Texas A&M.
• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This deeply degrading form includes forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (such as the infamous “roasted pig” positions), and wearing humiliating costumes. It also encompasses acts with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones, using slurs, or forcing individuals to role-play degrading scenarios. These acts inflict severe psychological trauma and can blur into sexual assault.
• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but profoundly damaging, psychological hazing involves sustained verbal abuse, threats, and deliberate social isolation. Manipulation, forced confessions, and public shaming—often amplified on social media platforms or in chapter meetings—can shatter a student’s self-esteem and lead to severe anxiety, depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
• Digital/Online Hazing: With the ubiquity of smartphones and social media, hazing has found new, insidious channels. This includes group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation orchestrated via Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, and other platforms. Pledges may be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to post humiliating content about themselves, all under constant digital surveillance. This constant digital monitoring and expectation of immediate response can also contribute to extreme sleep deprivation and anxiety.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

It is a grave misconception that hazing is limited to “frat boys.” While fraternities and sororities remain a focal point for hazing incidents, the practice spans a wide array of student organizations. Hazing is reported in:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes those affiliated with the Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and various multicultural Greek councils.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Organizations grounded in tradition and discipline, such as the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets, have faced allegations of hazing that exploit the hierarchical structure.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs, and Student Groups: Groups like the “Absolute Texxas” spirit group at UT Austin or other long-standing tradition organizations can also engage in hazing under the guise of “bonding” or “earning your place.”
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to swimming, baseball, and cheerleading squads, collegiate athletic programs have seen extensive hazing, as highlighted by the Northwestern University scandal.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups are not immune. The tragic death of Robert Champion at Florida A&M’s marching band brought national attention to hazing in non-Greek organizations.
• Some Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any student group with an initiation process or a hierarchical structure can be vulnerable to hazing.

The prevalence of hazing across such a diverse range of organizations underlines how social status, adherence to “tradition,” and a deeply ingrained culture of secrecy allow these practices to persist, often in direct contravention of university policies and state laws. For students in Katy attending any of these types of organizations, understanding these dangers is the first step toward self-protection.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Katy seeking justice for hazing, understanding the legal landscape in Texas is paramount. Both state and, increasingly, federal laws provide avenues for accountability, ranging from criminal penalties for individual perpetrators to civil lawsuits against institutions.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific, robust anti-hazing provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code. These laws broadly define and prohibit any act that endangers a student for initiation or continued membership in an organization. Specifically, Texas Education Code § 37.151 defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

This definition is critical for Katy families to grasp. It clarifies that hazing can happen anywhere—on or off campus, in a dorm, an off-campus house, or even at a remote retreat. It doesn’t have to cause physical injury; acts that substantially affect mental health, such as extreme humiliation, intimidation, or social isolation designed to control, also fall under the statute. Furthermore, the act only needs to be “reckless,” meaning the perpetrator knew or should have known there was a substantial risk of harm, even if they didn’t intend to cause injury. A crucial point, directly addressed in Texas Education Code § 37.155, is that a victim’s “consent” to the hazing activity is not a legal defense. This acknowledges the immense pressure and coercion inherent in hazing environments.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing in Texas

Texas law imposes criminal penalties for hazing, with severity escalating based on the harm caused:

• Class B Misdemeanor: The default classification for hazing that does not result in serious injury (punishable by up to 180 days in jail, a fine up to $2,000, or both).
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical treatment.
• State Jail Felony: If the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This is a critical provision that means fatalities or catastrophic injuries are treated with the gravity they deserve.

Beyond the acts of hazing themselves, individuals can also face criminal charges for related misconduct. An officer of an organization or a student who, with criminal negligence, permits, encourages, or fails to report hazing can face misdemeanor charges. Similarly, retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor under Texas law.

Organizational Liability

Texas Education Code § 37.153 explicitly states that organizations (fraternities, sororities, clubs, teams) can also be held criminally responsible for hazing if:

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

Penalties for organizations can include fines up to $10,000 per violation. Universities also have the authority to revoke recognition and ban non-compliant organizations from campus, a powerful tool for accountability. This provision is vital for Katy families to understand, as it means both individuals and the organizational structure can be held responsible in a criminal court.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting

Texas Education Code § 37.154 provides crucial protections: any person who, in good faith, reports a hazing incident to a university or law enforcement agency is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from that report. Furthermore, many Texas universities, mirroring good-faith reporter laws, extend amnesty to students who call 911 or seek medical help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or hazing was involved. This aims to encourage reporting and prioritize student safety, though the fear of social or academic consequences can still deter students.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference for Katy Families

For a family in Katy, it’s important to distinguish between criminal and civil legal actions related to hazing:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (through a local prosecutor’s office, such as the Harris County District Attorney in Katy’s area). The goal of a criminal case is to punish individuals or organizations for violating state laws. In hazing scenarios, typical charges can include hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or, in the most tragic cases, manslaughter or negligent homicide. The burden of proof in criminal cases is “beyond a reasonable doubt,” and the penalties involve fines, probation, or incarceration.
• Civil Cases: These are initiated by victims or their surviving families against those responsible for the harm. The goal of a civil case is to obtain monetary compensation (damages) for the injuries, losses, and suffering caused by the hazing, and to hold responsible parties accountable. Civil hazing lawsuits often involve claims of:
  • Negligence and Gross Negligence: For failures to properly supervise, warn, or prevent known dangers.
  • Wrongful Death: When hazing results in a fatality.
  • Negligent Hiring/Supervision: Against universities or national organizations that fail to properly vet or oversee staff and chapter advisors.
  • Premises Liability: Against property owners where hazing occurred.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe psychological harm.
  • Assault and Battery: For physical harm.

A critical point for families in Katy is that criminal and civil cases are separate. A criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil lawsuit, and victims can simultaneously pursue both avenues.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations are increasingly shaping the landscape of hazing accountability:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation mandates that colleges receiving federal financial aid must publicly report hazing incidents, strengthen hazing education and prevention efforts, and maintain more transparent public data on hazing violations. These provisions are set to be fully phased in by around 2026, offering greater transparency for Katy families considering universities across the country.
• Title IX: If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based discrimination or hostility, Title IX obligations—a federal civil rights law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in education—are triggered. This means universities have specific duties to investigate and respond.
• Clery Act: This federal law requires colleges to disclose campus crime statistics and security policies. Hazing incidents involving assaults, alcohol or drug offenses, or other crimes often overlap with Clery Act reporting requirements, contributing to the public record of campus safety.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

In a civil hazing lawsuit, determining who is legally responsible can be complex, often involving multiple parties:

• Individual Students: Those who planned, orchestrated, participated in, or helped cover up hazing acts can be held personally liable. This includes officers and “pledge educators.”
• Local Chapter/Organization: The branch of the fraternity, sorority, or student group that directly engaged in or facilitated the hazing can be sued as a distinct entity.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The larger, national organization that charters and oversees local chapters can be held liable. This often depends on evidence that the national body knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing within its chapters, or failed to enforce its own anti-hazing policies.
• University or Governing Board: While public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) often carry some sovereign immunity, exceptions exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, and Title IX violations. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections. Liability can stem from the university’s failure to supervise student organizations, enforce its hazing policies, address prior warnings, or protect students from foreseeable harm.
• Third Parties: This can include landlords or owners of off-campus houses or event spaces where hazing occurred, bars or alcohol providers (under dram shop laws for overserving minors), security companies, or event organizers who failed to ensure safety.

Every case is fact-specific, and the liable parties will vary depending on the unique circumstances of the hazing incident. For Katy families, a thorough investigation by experienced legal counsel is essential to identify all potential defendants.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

While hazing incidents often make local headlines in Texas—including in Houston, Dallas, College Station, and Austin—it’s crucial for Katy families to understand that these events are rarely isolated. They are often part of a disturbing national pattern, particularly within certain fraternities and sororities. The major cases described below have not only shaped anti-hazing legislation and university policies, but they also provide critical precedents for civil litigation, helping Texas courts understand foreseeability, institutional indifference, and the true cost of hazing.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most common and tragically fatal hazing pattern involves forced alcohol consumption, often during “initiation” or “pledge” events. These cases underscore the lethal danger of excessive drinking and the criminal negligence of those who delay seeking medical help.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): A bid-acceptance event at this national fraternity’s chapter house turned deadly when 19-year-old Timothy Piazza was forced to consume excessive alcohol. Footage from chapter cameras captured his horrifying falls, which resulted in traumatic brain injuries. Crucially, fraternity members delayed calling 911 for nearly 12 hours, attempting to cover up the incident. This led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the creation of the groundbreaking Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania. The case demonstrated that extreme intoxication, deliberate delay in calling for emergency medical help, and a pervasive culture of silence can lead to devastating legal consequences for individuals and institutions.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): During a “Big Brother Night” event, 20-year-old pledge Andrew Coffey was given a handle of hard liquor and forced to drink to dangerous levels, ultimately dying from acute alcohol poisoning. Criminal hazing charges were brought against multiple fraternity members. In response, FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life and overhauled its policies. For Katy families, this illustrates how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a recurring script for disaster, and universities face severe scrutiny for allowing such patterns to persist.
• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died after participating in a coercive “Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers resulted in forced rapid alcohol consumption. His blood alcohol content was 0.495%. His death led to a major legislative response in Louisiana, the Max Gruver Act, which elevated hazing to a felony. In the civil suit, the family reached a confidential settlement with LSU and later secured a $6.1 million verdict against an individual member and the insurer. This case powerfully highlights how immediate public outrage and clear evidence of hazing can drive legislative change and significant monetary compensation.
• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): During a pledge night, 20-year-old Stone Foltz was forced to consume nearly a full bottle of whiskey as part of a “Big/Little” reveal. He died from alcohol poisoning. This incident resulted in multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members involved, and the university agreed to a nearly $3 million settlement with the family. The Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and other individuals also settled for a combined $10 million. For Katy families, this case is a stark reminder that universities, even public ones, can face substantial financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities, demonstrating how a pattern of known dangerous hazing tactics can directly lead to legal liability.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualized hazing can lead to severe injuries and death, often under the guise of “tradition” or “bonding.”

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a pledge, was subjected to a brutal, blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual during a fraternity retreat in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. During the ritual, he was weighted with a backpack and repeatedly tackled. He suffered fatal head injuries, and, tragically, members delayed calling for medical help for hours, attempting to cover up the incident. This case led to multiple criminal convictions for individual members, and the Pi Delta Psi national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter – a landmark decision. The fraternity was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. This incident demonstrates that hazing often moves to off-campus “retreats” to avoid detection, but these remote locations do not negate the serious legal liabilities, including for national organizations.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is endemic across student organizations, and high-profile athletics programs, despite their resources and public scrutiny, are not immune.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): This scandal unfolded when former players alleged widespread sexualized, racist, and physically abusive hazing within the university’s prestigious football program over multiple years. The allegations included forced sexual acts, derogatory language, and ritualized physical abuse. The scandal led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern University and coaching staff, the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later filed his own wrongful-termination suit that was confidentially settled in August 2025), and a re-evaluation of oversight in collegiate athletics. This case forcefully demonstrates that hazing extends far beyond Greek life, permeating even major, revenue-generating athletic programs, raising critical questions about institutional oversight and accountability at the highest levels.

What These Cases Mean for Katy Families

These national tragedies, while heart-wrenching, reveal critical patterns that deeply inform hazing litigation in Texas. Common threads include: forced consumption of alcohol, profound humiliation, physical violence, deliberate delays in seeking medical attention, and extensive cover-up attempts. These cases consistently show that meaningful reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements or verdicts often only occur after a tragedy and through the meticulous pursuit of justice via litigation.

For families in Katy facing hazing incidents at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, these national lessons are not distant events. They demonstrate the legal precedents, the tactics of defense, and the potential for accountability that can be brought to bear in Texas courts. Understanding these patterns is crucial for any family seeking to hold powerful institutions responsible.

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

For families in Katy, understanding the specific environments and hazing histories of Texas’s major universities is crucial if their student attends, or plans to attend, one of these institutions. Katy, strategically located within Harris County and part of the vibrant Greater Houston area, often sees its students matriculate to the University of Houston, or attend other flagship universities across the state. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, serving Katy and all of Texas, closely monitors hazing trends and institutional responses at these schools.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston, located a short drive from Katy, is a large, diverse urban campus within Houston. It serves a dynamic mix of commuter and residential students, boasting a vibrant Greek life and a wide array of student organizations, including cultural groups, academic societies, and sports clubs. As a public institution, UH plays a significant role in the educational landscape of the Greater Houston area, with many Katy families having direct connections to the university.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UH maintains a clear, zero-tolerance policy against hazing. Its Student Code of Conduct strictly prohibits hazing, defining it broadly to include any forced or coerced activity that subjects a student to humiliation, physical or emotional discomfort, abuse, or degradation as a condition for membership. This prohibition applies whether acts occur on-campus or off-campus. UH specifically prohibits forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and activities causing mental distress. The university encourages reporting through its Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). Anonymous reporting is also available for students or concerned family members.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

While UH, like other universities, does not always widely publicize all hazing investigations, some incidents have highlighted ongoing challenges:

• 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha Incident: A notable incident involved the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity chapter at UH in 2016. Pledges alleged they were subjected to prolonged periods of food, water, and sleep deprivation during a multi-day event. One student, tragically, suffered a lacerated spleen after reportedly being slammed onto a table or similar surface as part of the hazing. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and a lengthy university suspension. This case underscored the severe physical trauma that can result from hazing veiled as endurance tests.
• Ongoing Disciplinary Actions: Public records and university disciplinary reports indicate that UH has, on multiple occasions, suspended or placed fraternities and other student organizations on probation for violations relating to “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” including alcohol misuse and policy infractions. These responses demonstrate UH’s commitment to addressing hazing, though the ongoing recurrence highlights the persistent nature of the problem.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a family in Katy, pursuing a hazing case involving UH or a UH-affiliated organization would involve legal efforts within the Harris County jurisdiction. Investigations might involve both the UHPD for on-campus incidents and the Houston Police Department for events occurring off-campus within city limits. Civil lawsuits against individuals, the local chapter, national organizations, and potentially the university itself would likely be filed in Harris County civil courts. Identifying potential defendants would include individual students, the chapter (if legally distinct), the national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the University of Houston, navigating its sovereign immunity that applies to public institutions. Our firm, based in Houston and serving Katy, is well-versed in navigating these local legal landscapes.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

Katy students and parents connected to UH should take proactive steps:

• Familiarize yourselves with UH’s Hazing Policy: Understand what constitutes hazing according to the university and where to find official reporting forms.
• Utilize UH-specific Reporting Channels: If you suspect or experience hazing, report immediately to the Dean of Students, UHPD, or through any anonymous hotline provided by the university.
• Document Everything: As soon as concerns arise, begin documenting dates, times, locations, individuals involved, and specific behaviors. This includes texts, screenshots of group chats, and photos of any injuries or materials used in hazing.
• Prioritize Safety: If there’s an immediate threat or injury, call 911 first, then contact university officials. Texas law protects good-faith reporters.
• Seek Legal Counsel Promptly: If hazing has caused significant physical or psychological harm, or if the university’s response feels inadequate, talking to a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases can help uncover prior disciplinary actions and internal files that may be crucial for a civil case. Our firm, just a short drive from Katy, can provide this specialized guidance.

5.2 Texas A&M University

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M University in College Station, while further afield from Katy than UH, draws many students from the Katy area, particularly those interested in its strong engineering, agriculture, and Corps of Cadets programs. A&M is renowned for its deep-seated traditions, loyal alumni, and a unique campus culture heavily influenced by the Corps. This tradition-heavy, military-style environment, while fostering camaraderie, has also been associated with disciplinary challenges, including hazing.

5.2.2 Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M has a strict anti-hazing policy, emphasizing that hazing is illegal under state law and prohibited by university regulations. The policy explicitly defines hazing to include physical endurance activities, forced alcohol consumption, humiliation, sleep deprivation, and any activity that creates a risk of mental or physical harm for purposes of initiation or membership. A&M encourages reporting through its Department of Student Life, the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD), and an anonymous online reporting system called the “Aggie Honor System Office.”

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced high-profile hazing allegations across its Greek life and highly traditional organizations:

• 2021 Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit: Two pledges of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity chapter at Texas A&M filed a lawsuit alleging severe hazing. They claimed they were forced to engage in strenuous physical activity and then had substances, including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns that required extensive medical treatment, including skin graft surgeries. The university suspended the fraternity for two years. This case highlighted the extreme physical dangers of chemical hazing and the lasting medical implications.
• 2023 Corps of Cadets Lawsuit: A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading and physical hazing 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. The cadet sought over $1 million in damages. While Texas A&M stated it addressed the matter internally according to its rules, the incident underscored the ongoing scrutiny of traditional military-style organizations and their practices.
• 2023 Kappa Sigma Allegations: The Kappa Sigma fraternity chapter at Texas A&M faced allegations of hazing that resulted in severe injuries, specifically rhabdomyolysis—a serious condition involving muscle breakdown due to extreme physical exertion. This ongoing litigation emphasizes the need for specialized legal representation for physically debilitating hazing injuries.

5.2.4 How an A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

A hazing case originating at Texas A&M would involve investigations by the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) or, for off-campus incidents, the Bryan or College Station police departments. Civil suits would likely be filed in Bryan-College Station’s Brazos County civil courts. As a public institution, Texas A&M invokes sovereign immunity, which can make suing the university directly challenging, though not impossible, especially for claims of gross negligence or through individual capacity lawsuits against employees. Our firm understands these jurisdictional nuances and the strategies required to pursue justice against powerful state institutions, serving Katy families whose students attend A&M.

5.2.5 What A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Families in Katy and beyond with students at Texas A&M should:

• Understand the “Aggie Honor System Office” Reporting: A&M’s anonymous online reporting system is a key official channel for students to report hazing without fear of immediate retribution.
• Be Aware of Corps Culture: If a student is joining the Corps, discuss the line between rigorous training and illegal hazing. Understand that “tradition” does not exempt an activity from hazing laws.
• Document and Photograph: Preserve any evidence, including group chats, photos of injuries or events, and records of any medical treatment received as a result of hazing.
• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: For any injuries, physical exertion-related illness (like rhabdomyolysis), or other health concerns. Explicitly state the suspected cause of these issues to medical providers (e.g., “I was forced to do these exercises as part of hazing”).
• Consult Legal Experts: Due to the complex nature of A&M’s traditions and its public university status, seeking advice from an attorney experienced in Texas hazing law is crucial for Katy families to understand their rights and options.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin is the state’s flagship university, attracting numerous students from Katy and across Texas. Known for its vibrant academic and social scene, UT Austin boasts a massive Greek life presence and a multitude of student organizations, including spirit groups and athletic teams. The campus culture is dynamic, blending academic rigor with a rich tapestry of traditions, some of which have unfortunately been linked to hazing allegations.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UT Austin maintains one of the most transparent anti-hazing policies among Texas universities. Hazing is strictly prohibited, both on and off campus, and is clearly defined in its Student Code of Conduct (Chapter 26). UT provides multiple reporting channels, including the Dean of Students, the Office of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity, the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD), and an anonymous online reporting form. Critically, UT Austin is also one of the few Texas universities that actively publishes an online database of campus hazing violations, detailing the organizations, dates, specific conduct, and sanctions imposed.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public database of hazing violations provides valuable insights into recurring issues:

• 2023 Pi Kappa Alpha Incident: The Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity chapter at UT was sanctioned after an investigation revealed new members were directed to consume milk excessively and perform strenuous calisthenics. These activities were found to be hazing, leading to the chapter being placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Spirit Organization Violations: UT’s records include disciplinary actions against non-Greek organizations, such as the “Absolute Texxas” spirit group in 2022. This group faced sanctions for hazing involving alcohol and drug misconduct, blindfolding, kidnapping-like behaviors, and degrading new members. Other tradition-based spirit groups, like the “Texas Wranglers,” have also faced sanctions for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing.
• Recent Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit (January 2024): The SAE chapter at UT Austin faced a lawsuit after an Australian exchange student alleged assault during a fraternity party. The student suffered severe injuries, including a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, and a fractured tibia. This incident occurred while the chapter was already under suspension for prior hazing and safety violations, underscoring a pattern of misconduct at this national fraternity.

The transparency offered by UT’s publicly accessible hazing violations page (deanofstudents.utexas.edu/sfl/hazingreports.php) is a double-edged sword: it shows the university’s commitment to reporting, but also reveals a persistent pattern of hazing across various student organizations despite enforcement efforts.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Katy families, a hazing case originating at UT Austin would involve investigations by the UTPD or the Austin Police Department, depending on the location of the incident. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in Travis County civil courts. As a public university, UT Austin benefits from sovereign immunity, similar to UH and Texas A&M. However, exceptions for gross negligence, willful misconduct, and Title IX violations can allow for successful claims against the university. Importantly, UT’s public record of prior hazing violations can be a powerful tool for civil plaintiffs, demonstrating a pattern of documented misconduct and the university’s prior knowledge of risks.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

Families from Katy and students at UT Austin should:

• Review the UT Hazing Violations Database: Before choosing an organization, check UT’s public record of hazing incidents. This transparency is a valuable resource for identifying groups with a history of misconduct.
• Understand UT’s Reporting Procedures: Be aware of the various channels, including the Dean of Students and anonymous reporting.
• Document Everything: Preserve any evidence, including group chats, photos, videos, and records of communication related to the hazing. If your student is injured, ensure medical records explicitly state the cause of injury.
• Consider Campus Police for Criminal Acts: If the hazing constitutes a crime (assault, sexual assault, coerced drug use), reporting to UTPD or Austin PD is an option.
• Engage Legal Counsel Early: Given UT’s specific legal context and public records, an attorney experienced in Texas hazing law can effectively utilize this data to build a strong case.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Southern Methodist University, situated in Dallas, is a private, highly selective institution known for its beautiful campus and affluent student body. SMU has a very prominent and active Greek life, which forms a central part of student social life. Many students from Katy and other Texas communities are drawn to SMU’s strong academic programs and vibrant campus culture, including its extensive network of fraternities and sororities.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains a strict anti-hazing policy that aligns with Texas state law, prohibiting any action that causes physical or mental harm or distress for purposes of initiation or membership. As a private institution, SMU has administrative latitude to enforce its policies, often leading to suspensions and other disciplinary actions for chapters and individuals found responsible for hazing. SMU encourages reporting through its Office of the Dean of Students, the SMU Police Department, and an anonymous tip line. It also utilizes systems like “Real Response” to gather student feedback and reports.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Like other universities with active Greek systems, SMU has dealt with significant hazing incidents:

• 2017 Kappa Alpha Order Incident: The Kappa Alpha Order fraternity chapter at SMU faced severe disciplinary action following allegations of hazing that involved new members being paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and deprived of sleep. The chapter was suspended, prohibiting it from recruiting new members or operating on campus until around 2021. This incident brought to light the persistence of physical and alcohol-related hazing even at institutions with clear anti-hazing policies.
• Ongoing Disciplinary Actions: SMU has regularly faced and responded to allegations of hazing, issuing suspensions and placing chapters on probation for various violations including alcohol misuse and forced activities. While specific details may not always be as publicly detailed as for a state-funded university (due to privacy considerations for a private institution), SMU consistently reiterates its commitment to hazing prevention and accountability.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Katy families pursuing a hazing case involving SMU, investigations would likely involve the SMU Police Department and/or the Dallas Police Department for off-campus incidents. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in Dallas County civil courts. As a private institution, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially more directly liable in comparison to its public counterparts. Our firm understands the distinctions between litigation strategies for public versus private universities, which is crucial for maximizing accountability for Katy families.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

Katy students and parents affiliated with SMU should:

• Familiarize with SMU’s Policies: Understand the specific definitions of hazing and reporting mechanisms available, including anonymous options like “Real Response.”
• Monitor Chapter Histories: While not always public, students and parents can research known incidents within organizations, especially those at SMU, which may still be known through word-of-mouth or news archives.
• Documentation is Key: Maintain records of all relevant information—texts, emails, social media, photos, and medical reports—if hazing occurs.
• Seek Immediate Help: In an emergency, contact SMU PD or local Dallas authorities.
• Consult a Lawyer Knowledgeable in Private University Cases: The legal strategies against private universities differ from public ones. For Katy families, consulting with an attorney experienced in these distinctions is vital to explore legal options effectively.

5.5 Baylor University

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University, located in Waco, is a private Christian university with a strong emphasis on faith, tradition, and community. Many students from Katy and other Texas communities choose Baylor for its academic reputation and distinctive Christian environment. Baylor’s athletics programs and Greek life play a significant role in student life, leading to both school spirit and, unfortunately, some challenges related to hazing. Baylor’s history includes intense scrutiny over its handling of sexual assault cases in its football program, which has led to a renewed focus on institutional accountability and student safety protocols.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University strictly prohibits hazing in accordance with federal and Texas state law. Its policies highlight that hazing is contrary to its Christian mission and values. The university defines a wide range of prohibited activities, including forced consumption of harmful substances, physical abuse, psychological torment, and acts causing humiliation or degradation. Baylor encourages reporting through its Department of Student Life, the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD), and its confidential “EthicsPoint” hotline. The university often publicizes disciplinary actions taken against student organizations found responsible for hazing.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor’s commitment to addressing misconduct, particularly in light of prior institutional challenges, has been tested by hazing allegations:

• 2020 Baylor Baseball Hazing: Baylor faced a significant hazing incident within its baseball program. Following an investigation, 14 players were suspended, with suspensions staggered over the early season to mitigate impact on the team. While specific details of the hazing were not fully released, the incident underscored that hazing is not confined to Greek life and can occur within high-profile athletic teams, even while under intense scrutiny.
• Historical Context: Baylor’s prior sexual assault scandal in its football program and subsequent Title IX investigations, while distinct from hazing, created a heightened awareness and institutional imperative for the university to demonstrate robust investigation and enforcement for all forms of student misconduct, including hazing.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Katy family pursuing a hazing case involving Baylor University, investigations might involve the BUPD or the Waco Police Department (for off-campus incidents). Civil lawsuits would typically be heard in McLennan County civil courts. As a private institution, Baylor does not have the protection of sovereign immunity. This means lawsuits against Baylor can proceed more directly than against public universities, potentially focusing on claims of negligent supervision, creating or maintaining a dangerous environment, or a failure to respond to known dangers.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

Katy students and parents connected to Baylor University should be particularly vigilant:

• Understand Baylor’s Accountability Framework: Given Baylor’s recent history, the university is under intense scrutiny to act stringently on all forms of student misconduct. Families should expect (and demand) thorough investigations.
• Utilize Reporting Channels: Use Baylor’s Department of Student Life or the EthicsPoint hotline for reporting.
• Document EVERYTHING: For any hazing incident, preserve all digital communications, photos, medical records, and witness information. This is critical for any legal action.
• Do Not Rely Solely on Internal Processes: While Baylor commits to internal investigations, for significant harm, an independent legal review is essential. For Katy families, consulting with a lawyer experienced in hazing litigation can ensure that all avenues for accountability, both on and off campus, are explored.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

For families in Katy and throughout Texas, understanding that a local fraternity or sorority chapter is rarely an isolated entity is crucial. Most are part of larger, national organizations—some of which have a long and troubling history of hazing incidents across the country. When a hazing incident occurs at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, the pattern of conduct at that specific chapter, when viewed through the lens of its national organization’s history, often reveals a powerful narrative of foreseeability and institutional indifference.

Why National Histories Matter

National fraternity and sorority headquarters maintain extensive policies, risk management manuals, and often conduct training for their local chapters. These resources exist largely because these organizations have experienced deaths, catastrophic injuries, debilitating lawsuits, and criminal prosecutions related to hazing in the past. They know the common scripts: forced drinking rituals, “Big/Little” events involving handles of liquor, physical abuse disguised as “hell week” or “boot camp,” and humiliating practices justified as “tradition.”

When a Texas chapter—whether it’s Pi Kappa Alpha at UT, Sigma Alpha Epsilon at A&M, or Phi Delta Theta at LSU (which impacts students and families in Texas)—repeats the same dangerous patterns that have plagued other chapters of that national organization, it significantly strengthens claims of foreseeability. This means the national organization knew or should have known about the high risk of such hazing, especially if it had received previous warnings or reports. Such pattern evidence is invaluable in civil litigation, supporting arguments of negligence, gross negligence, and even punitive damages against national entities.

Organization Mapping (Synthesized Hazing Histories)

While we cannot list every single chapter at every university, here’s a look at some prominent fraternities and sororities active at Texas’s major universities and their national hazing histories. This allows Katy families to see the broader context of hazing within Greek life.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. Pi Kappa Alpha has a deeply troubling national hazing history, often involving excessive forced alcohol consumption.
  • Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (2021): The tragic death of Stone Foltz, an 18-year-old pledge, from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Big/Little event, resulted in multiple criminal convictions for members and combined $10 million in settlements (from national HQ, BGSU, and individuals). This case is a critical precedent for holding national organizations accountable for known hazing rituals.
  • David Bogenberger – Northern Illinois University (2012): Another fatal alcohol hazing incident involving Pi Kappa Alpha resulted in a $14 million settlement for the family, highlighting repeated patterns of dangerous drinking.
  • Daylen Dunson – Bowling Green State (2024): The court ordered former chapter president Daylen Dunson personally to pay $6.5 million to the Stone Foltz family, demonstrating massive individual liability for officers involved in hazing.
  • University of Mississippi (2025): Recent arrests of seven members for cyberstalking related to hazing activities show the evolving digital nature of hazing and its criminal implications.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. SAE has unfortunately garnered a national reputation due to a high number of hazing-related deaths and severe injuries over the past two decades, leading them, at one point, to eliminate their traditional pledge process nationwide.
  • Texas A&M University (2021): Two pledges alleged severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries after having industrial-strength cleaner, eggs, and spit poured on them during hazing, leading to a $1 million lawsuit and chapter suspension.
  • University of Texas at Austin (January 2024): A lawsuit was filed against the SAE chapter for over $1 million after an Australian exchange student was allegedly assaulted during a party, resulting in severe bone and ligament injuries, while the chapter was under suspension for prior violations.
  • University of Alabama (2023): A lawsuit was filed alleging a pledge suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual. These incidents collectively show a pattern of repeated issues within SAE chapters, including in Texas.
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor.
  • Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University (2017): The death of Max Gruver due to alcohol poisoning during a forced drinking game (“Bible study”) led to the Max Gruver Act (felony hazing) in Louisiana and a $6.1 million verdict for the family against an individual and insurer.
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin.
  • Andrew Coffey – Florida State University (2017): Died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event where pledges were given handles of hard liquor.
• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor.
  • Timothy Piazza – Penn State University (2017): Piazza died from traumatic brain injuries after extreme alcohol consumption and falls during a bid acceptance night. His case led to a landmark anti-hazing law and extensive criminal prosecution, confirming the pattern of deliberate concealment.
• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor.
  • College of Charleston (2024): A pledge alleged physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, and psychological torment. The family reportedly received more than $10 million in damages, demonstrating substantial awards for severe harm.
  • University of Texas at Arlington (2020): A pledge was hospitalized with alcohol poisoning from hazing, leading to a lawsuit claiming negligent supervision that settled in 2021.
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor.
  • Chad Meredith – University of Miami (2001): The drowning death of an 18-year-old pledge after being coerced to swim a lake while intoxicated resulted in a $12.6 million jury verdict based on hazing and later a Florida law in his honor.
  • Texas A&M University (2023, ongoing): Ongoing allegations of hazing resulting in severe injuries, including rhabdomyolysis, illustrate persistent issues within chapters.
• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI): Active at Texas A&M.
  • Danny Santulli – University of Missouri (2021): An 18-year-old pledge suffered severe, permanent brain damage after being forced to drink excessive alcohol during a “pledge dad reveal.” The family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants, involving multi-million dollar confidential amounts, highlighting catastrophic non-fatal hazing injuries.
• Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor (NPHC).
  • University of Southern Mississippi (April 2023): A former student filed a federal lawsuit alleging severe paddling during “Hell Night,” causing injuries requiring emergency surgery and months of rehabilitation.
• Additional Organizations: The national histories of other organizations like Kappa Kappa Gamma (ΚΚΓ) (DePauw University, 1997, branding pledges with cigarettes), Lambda Theta Phi (ΛΘΦ) (Cornell University, 2007, physical and psychological abuse), Alpha Phi Alpha (ΑΦΑ) (Morehouse College, 1989, death after suspected hazing), and Sigma Pi (ΣΠ) (Ohio University, Collin Wiant death in 2018 from drug-related hazing leading to “Collin’s Law”) further underscore that hazing is a systemic issue across Greek life, requiring families to look beyond local chapter reputations.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

For Katy families considering legal action, these national patterns are invaluable. They demonstrate that when a local chapter of one of these organizations repeats a known dangerous practice, the national chapter often had prior warnings from similar incidents elsewhere. This can weaken their defense that the incident was “rogue” or “unforeseeable.”

In court, we can introduce evidence that certain organizations have:

• Failed to meaningfully enforce anti-hazing policies despite a clear history of dangerous hazing.
• Responded to prior incidents with minimal punishment, effectively breeding a culture of continued hazing.
• Allowed dangerous rituals or practices linked to severe injuries or deaths across their chapters.

This pattern evidence can significantly affect:

• Settlement leverage: When a national organization faces evidence of repeated wrongdoing, they are often incentivized to settle.
• Insurance coverage disputes: Knowing what exclusions insurers typically raise allows us to proactively argue how negligent supervision or prior notice makes them liable.
• Potential for punitive damages: In cases of egregious conduct and a history of ignoring warnings, courts may award punitive damages to punish defendants and deter future misconduct.

This deep understanding of national hazing patterns, combined with local Texas knowledge, is what allows The Manginello Law Firm to build compelling cases for our clients in Katy and across the state.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

When hazing leaves a student injured, traumatized, or, tragically, results in death, the path to justice requires meticulous investigation, strategic legal planning, and a deep understanding of the true cost of the harm inflicted. For families in Katy, pursuing a hazing lawsuit means confronting powerful institutions with legal teams often prepared to deny fault and prolong litigation. That’s why having experienced counsel is critical.

7.1 Evidence: The Foundation of a Hazing Case

Modern hazing cases are won or lost based on the evidence, which is increasingly digital and often fleeting. Our firm specializes in uncovering and preserving the critical pieces of information that prove negligence and wrongdoing.

• Digital Communications: This is often the most critical category. GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and even fraternity-specific apps are where much hazing is planned and documented. These messages reveal intent, coercion, planning, and who was involved. Our firm works with forensic experts to recover deleted messages and preserve the authenticity of existing ones. We advise Katy families to screenshot everything immediately if they see concerning content.
• Photos & Videos: Today, almost everyone has a cell phone. Evidence often includes videos or photos taken by members during events, footage shared in group chats, or even social media posts that, often unwittingly, document hazing. Security camera footage from houses or venues can also be invaluable.
• Internal Organization Documents: These include pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” lists, and emails or texts from officers giving instructions. National organizations also have anti-hazing policies and training materials, which can be subpoenaed to show they knew about the risks but failed to prevent them.
• University Records: Through discovery or public records requests (for public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin), we seek prior conduct files, probation notices, incident reports to campus police or student conduct offices, and even Clery Act reports. These records can demonstrate a pattern of ignored warnings or inadequate responses.
• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the extent of the harm. Emergency room reports, hospitalization records, surgery notes, rehab records, and toxicology reports are vital. Equally important are psychological evaluations that diagnose conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidality, which prove the profound mental health impact of hazing.
• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts from other pledges, members who later quit, roommates, RAs, coaches, trainers, or even bystanders can provide direct evidence or corroborate other findings.

7.2 Damages: Understanding the True Cost of Hazing

A civil lawsuit aims to recover damages—monetary compensation for the harm hazing causes. These damages can be substantial, reflecting the profound and lasting impact on victims and their families.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs, from immediate emergency room visits and ambulance transport to long-term rehabilitation, future surgeries, physical and occupational therapy, and medications. For catastrophic injuries like brain damage (as in the Danny Santulli case), this also includes expensive, lifetime care plans.
• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can force students to withdraw from school, delay graduation, or lose scholarships. This leads to lost tuition and fees, delayed entry into the workforce, and, for permanent injuries, significantly reduced lifetime earning capacity.
• Non-Economic Damages: These quantify intangible harm, which is often the most devastating. They include physical pain and suffering, intense emotional distress, trauma, humiliation, and the profound loss of enjoyment of life. For students, this can mean the loss of their college experience, relationships, and the ability to participate in activities they once loved.
• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the tragic event of a hazing death, surviving family members (parents, children, and sometimes siblings in Texas) can recover for funeral and burial costs, the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and, crucially, the profound grief, emotional suffering, and loss of companionship, love, and protection.

It’s important to note that our firm describes the types of damages recoverable, not promising or predicting specific dollar amounts, as every case’s value is unique and depends on many factors.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing cases are complex because they often involve multiple defendants, each with their own legal counsel and insurance.

• Insurance Coverage: National fraternities, sororities, and universities typically carry substantial liability insurance policies. However, insurers often try to argue that hazing or intentional acts are excluded from coverage. This is where our firm’s expertise, particularly associate attorney Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney, becomes invaluable. We know how to identify all potential coverage sources and challenge wrongful denials of coverage.
• Defenses: Defendants often employ common tactics, such as arguing the victim “consented,” claiming the incident was “off-campus” and therefore not their responsibility, or asserting that it was a “rogue chapter” acting against national policy. Our firm is skilled at dismantling these defenses by presenting evidence of coercion, demonstrating foreseeability based on prior incidents, and proving a failure to supervise effectively.
• Strategy: Our approach is to conduct a thorough, independent investigation. We seek to identify all responsible parties—individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, the university, and sometimes third-party property owners or alcohol providers. We build a comprehensive case designed to hold every liable party accountable and secure maximum compensation for our clients in Katy and across Texas.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For parents, students, and witnesses in Katy facing the aftermath or the threat of hazing, actionable information and clear guidance are essential. Knowing what to do, what to look for, and who to trust can make all the difference in preventing harm and pursuing justice.

8.1 For Parents in Katy

As a parent, your intuition is your most powerful tool. Trust it.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be vigilant for changes in your child’s behavior. Look for unexplained injuries (bruises, burns, cuts) or repeated “accidents” with inconsistent stories. Note extreme exhaustion or sudden sleep deprivation. Be alert to drastic mood swings, increased anxiety, withdrawal from family or old friends, or defensiveness when you ask about the organization. Constant, secret phone use for group chats at all hours, or a stated “fear of missing mandatory events,” are also red flags. Watch for academic declines, requests for unusual amounts of money, or unexplained financial pressures.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation calmly and empathetically. Start with open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with [organization]? Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?” Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your absolute priority, far above any organizational status. Reassure them that you will support them no matter what, and that keeping secrets from you or others can put them in greater danger.
• If Your Child is Hurt: Prioritize medical care immediately. Do not delay. When seeking medical attention, ensure that the medical providers understand your suspicion of hazing so it’s documented in their records. Then, document everything: take photos of injuries from multiple angles, save any concerning texts or group chat screenshots, and write down a detailed account of what your child tells you, including names, dates, and locations.
• Dealing with the University: If you engage with university officials, document every communication. Ask specific questions about prior incidents involving the same organization and what actions the school took. Do not sign any university-provided “release” forms or agree to internal “resolutions” without consulting independent legal counsel first.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has sustained significant physical or psychological harm due to hazing, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing or concealing the truth, it is time to contact an experienced hazing attorney. We can help you navigate university processes, which often prioritize the institution’s reputation over student welfare.

8.2 For Students / Pledges in Katy

We understand the intense pressure you face. Your desire to belong, to be part of a team or a brotherhood/sisterhood, is natural. But no group is worth your physical or mental health, or your life.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself: Am I being pressured to do something that makes me feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced? Am I being forced to drink or endure pain? Is this activity hidden from the public or administrators because it’s wrong? If older members are making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves, it’s likely hazing. If you’re told to keep secrets or lie about what’s happening, it is hazing.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: Despite what older members might tell you—”you agreed to this,” “everyone did it,” “it’s voluntary”—the law and common sense recognize that there’s no true consent when there’s immense peer pressure, a power imbalance, or the fear of exclusion and social consequences.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the absolute right to leave any organization or situation that makes you uncomfortable or unsafe, at any time. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. You can report hazing privately, anonymously via campus hotlines, or through Texas A&M’s “Aggie Honor System Office,” UT’s Dean of Students, or SMU’s “Real Response” system. You can even report to the national anti-hazing hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293).
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and Texas law offer good faith reporter protections. This means if you call for help in an emergency, you often cannot be punished for underage drinking or for your involvement in hazing. Prioritize saving a life over fear of getting “in trouble.”

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses in Katy

If you are a former member, or witnessed hazing, and now carry the burden of what you’ve seen or participated in, we want you to know that there is a path to make things right.

• Your Testimony Matters: Your voice and evidence may be crucial to preventing future harm and saving lives. You may feel guilt or fear of consequences, but cooperating with an investigation or legal action can be an important step toward accountability and healing.
• Legal Advice is Key: It is wise to seek your own independent legal advice. An attorney can help you understand your rights, potential legal exposure, and how to navigate cooperation with authorities or civil litigants while protecting your interests.
• A Path to Accountability: Providing information can help expose dangerous practices, close down reckless chapters, and ensure that those truly responsible are held accountable. This can bring a sense of closure and help foster safer campus environments for future students from Katy and beyond.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

For families in Katy considering legal action, avoiding common pitfalls is as important as gathering evidence. These mistakes, often made with good intentions, can severely undermine your legal position:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence: Parents, in an attempt to protect their child from further trouble, might encourage deleting incriminating group chats or social media posts. This is a critical error. It can be seen as obstruction of justice and makes building a case nearly impossible for your attorney. Instead, preserve everything immediately, even if it’s embarrassing.
2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly: While your instinct might be to “give them a piece of your mind,” direct confrontation immediately puts them on alert. They will likely lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and begin preparing their defense. Document everything quietly, then consult a lawyer before any direct engagement.
3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms: Universities, keen to manage their reputation and liability, may pressure families to sign waivers or agree to internal “resolutions.” These documents often waive your right to pursue legal action later, and any early settlements are typically far below the true value of your case. Never sign anything without an attorney reviewing it first.
4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer: While the desire for public awareness is understandable, posting details about the hazing incident on social media before consulting a lawyer can be detrimental. Defense attorneys monitor social media, and any inconsistencies can be used to attack credibility, while sensitive information can compromise your case.
5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication from the organization should be directed through your lawyer. Returning for a “discussion” or “meeting” allows them an opportunity to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that could harm your case.
6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it”: Universities have a vested interest in managing incidents internally and minimizing public fallout. While they conduct their own investigations, evidence disappears rapidly, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations continues to run. Relying solely on the university’s process for accountability can be a critical mistake for Katy families seeking justice.
7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer: Insurance adjusters, even if seemingly friendly, work for the insurance company. Any recorded statements you give or information you provide can be used against you, and initial settlement offers are almost always lowball. Politely decline to speak with them and state, “My attorney will contact you.”

8.5 Short FAQ for Katy Families

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, and Title IX violations. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity defenses. 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. Under Texas law, hazing is a Class B misdemeanor by default. However, it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals, including organizational officers, can also face criminal charges for failing to report hazing or for related offenses like furnishing alcohol to minors.
• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes, absolutely. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts and juries recognize that “agreement” under intense peer pressure, a significant power imbalance, or fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent. Your claim will not be defeated simply because your child felt compelled to participate.
• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, there is a two-year statute of limitations in Texas for personal injury and wrongful death cases, running from the date of injury or death. However, this period can sometimes be extended by the “discovery rule” if the harm or its cause was not immediately apparent, or if there was fraudulent concealment. Time is critical in hazing cases because evidence (especially digital) disappears quickly, witnesses graduate, and memories fade. We urge Katy families to call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to discuss specific dates and deadlines.
• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of hazing does not eliminate liability. Many major hazing cases nationally (e.g., Pi Delta Psi’s fatal hazing at a remote retreat) occurred off-campus. Universities and national fraternities/sororities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge of off-campus activities, and the foreseeability of hazing.
• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Many hazing cases are resolved through confidential settlements before going to trial. Our firm prioritizes your family’s privacy and can often negotiate confidential terms or seek to seal court records. While some families choose public advocacy, we work with you to balance accountability with your desire for discretion.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action for Katy Families

When your family faces the profound trauma of hazing, you need more than just a general personal injury lawyer. You need tenacious attorneys who understand how powerful institutions—national fraternities, wealthy universities, and their sophisticated defense teams—fight back, and, crucially, how to win anyway. For families in Katy, finding a firm with deep Texas roots and specialized expertise in complex hazing litigation is paramount.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, stands ready to serve families in Katy and across Texas. From our Houston office, we offer unparalleled experience and aggressive advocacy in hazing cases. With over 25 years of practice, our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has a proven track record in complex litigation, including being one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation. This experience means we are not intimidated by billion-dollar corporations or their vast legal resources. We’ve taken on the biggest defendants and know how to fight for accountability. Ralph Manginello’s full credentials and case history are available at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings a unique and invaluable advantage to hazing cases. As a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm, Lupe knows exactly 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 “we used to run that playbook.” Lupe’s background, detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/, allows us to anticipate their moves and counter them effectively, ensuring that our Katy clients receive fair consideration.

We are adept at handling multi-million dollar wrongful death cases (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/) and catastrophic injury claims, working with economists, medical experts, and psychologists to meticulously calculate lifetime-care needs and the full scope of both economic and non-economic damages. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force accountability. Furthermore, Ralph Manginello’s background in criminal defense, including his membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association, means we understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) and can competently advise witnesses or former members who may face dual exposure.

We understand how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments operate behind closed doors. Our investigative depth is formidable—we know how to obtain deleted group chats and social media evidence, subpoena national fraternity records that show prior incidents, and uncover university files through powerful discovery tools and public records requests. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it, because it does. We emphasize empathy and victim advocacy, recognizing that this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for Answers and Accountability.

If you or your child experienced hazing at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Southern Methodist University, Baylor, or any other Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Katy, across Harris County, and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

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

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We’ll listen to your story without judgment, creating a safe space for you to share.
• We’ll review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• We’ll explain your legal options: a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what to expect during the legal process.
• We’ll answer your questions about costs – our contingency fee model (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc) means we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot. You can take the time you need to decide.
• Everything you tell us is confidential.

Call us today to schedule your free, confidential consultation:

• 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 consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

Reading this article does not create an attorney–client relationship. Every hazing case is unique, and we cannot guarantee specific outcomes. An experienced attorney can review your specific facts, explain your rights under Texas law, and help you understand your options. Whether you’re in Katy 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