Texas Hazing Laws: A Comprehensive Guide for Swisher County Families

It’s 3 AM, and your phone vibrates with a frantic call from your son or daughter. They’re at an off-campus fraternity house near their Texas university, far from Swisher County. They’re scared, perhaps incoherent, and describing something that sounds less like a party and more like a nightmare: forced drinking, degrading rituals, or physical abuse in the name of “initiation.” They whisper, “Don’t tell anyone, or I’ll be blackballed,” only to have the phone go dead. This isn’t just a bad dream; for thousands of Texas families, this is the terrifying reality of hazing.

Here in Swisher County, families often send their children to universities across our great state, from the urban campuses of Houston and Austin to the traditional halls of College Station, Dallas, and Waco. We trust these institutions to educate and protect our youth. Yet, beneath the veneer of tradition, Greek letters, and school spirit, the dangerous practice of hazing continues to claim lives, inflict severe injuries, and leave lasting emotional scars. The culture of secrecy, fueled by peer pressure and fear of retaliation, makes hazing an insidious threat that often goes unreported until tragedy strikes.

This comprehensive guide is for you—families in Swisher County and throughout Texas—who need to understand the complex world of hazing. We will shatter the old stereotypes of harmless pranks and shed light on what hazing truly looks like in 2025, from physical abuse to digital coercion. We will navigate the Texas and federal legal frameworks designed to combat these practices, drawing lessons from major national cases and examining the specific challenges and patterns at the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University. Most importantly, we will outline your legal options and demonstrate how an experienced legal team can help you pursue accountability and compensation while working to prevent future tragedies. The Manginello Law Firm is here to empower you with knowledge and protect your child’s rights.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 911 for medical emergencies, especially if they are unresponsive, unconscious, seizing, or have sustained severe injuries. Prioritize their health and safety above all else.
  • Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We provide immediate guidance and support during these critical times. We are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

• In the first 48 hours, every action counts:

  • Get immediate medical attention for your child, even if they insist they are “fine” or “just drunk.” Hidden injuries, concussions, or severe alcohol poisoning can have delayed, life-threatening consequences.
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted: Hazing group chats, texts, and social media posts vanish quickly. Help your child screenshot everything immediately. Photograph any visible injuries from multiple angles and over several days to show progression. Secure any physical items like damaged clothing or receipts for forced purchases.
  • Write down everything while the memory is fresh—who was involved, what exactly happened, when and where it occurred, and any specific language used. Contemporaneous notes are invaluable.
  • Do NOT: Confront the fraternity/sorority directly, sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal advice, or allow your child to post details on public social media. Most importantly, do not permit the deletion of any messages or “cleaning up” of evidence.

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

  • Time is critical. Evidence disappears rapidly through deleted group chats, destroyed materials, and coached witnesses. Universities and organizations move quickly to control the narrative.
  • We can help you preserve crucial evidence, navigate complex institutional responses, and protect your child’s rights.
  • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For many in Swisher County, the image of hazing might be something out of a movie from decades past—a silly prank or lighthearted initiation stunt. However, the reality of hazing in 2025 is far more sinister and dangerous. It’s an evolving landscape of physical brutality, psychological torture, sexual degradation, and digital coercion, all disguised as “team building” or “tradition.” It poses a severe threat to students at campuses across Texas, including those where Swisher County families send their children.

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether 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 that student. This occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students. It’s critical to understand that “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal, especially when there’s an inherent power imbalance, group pressure, or fear of exclusion.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

Modern hazing practices are often deliberately shrouded in secrecy and psychological manipulation. Members are instructed to use code words, delete messages, and ensure no outsiders witness their “activities.” The core of hazing lies in a power dynamic where older members assert dominance over new members, often exploiting their desire for belonging.

Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing offenses today fall into distinct, often overlapping, categories:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is by far the most common and deadliest form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced consumption of alcohol to dangerous levels, often through “chugging challenges,” “lineups,” or “drinking games” where wrong answers are explicitly punished with more alcohol. Pledges might be pressured to consume entire bottles of liquor, as seen in the tragic Stone Foltz case, or to drink unknown, dangerous mixtures. Such practices frequently lead to alcohol poisoning, severe injury, or death.

• Physical Hazing: This includes direct physical abuse such as paddling and beatings, as well as extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” that go far beyond normal athletic conditioning and are designed to punish. Sleep deprivation, food and water deprivation, and exposure to extreme cold or heat, or other dangerous environmental conditions, are also common tactics. These acts can result in broken bones, concussions, severe muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis), and kidney failure.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts cause severe psychological trauma and are often illegal. They include forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (like “roasted pig” positions), and other degrading acts that strip individuals of their dignity. Hazing with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones, including the use of slurs or forced role-playing of stereotypes, is also a deeply damaging form of humiliation.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but profoundly impactful, psychological hazing contributes to a coercive environment. This encompasses verbal abuse, threats, forced social isolation, constant ridicule, and manipulation. Pledges might be required to constantly carry specific items, answer to demeaning nicknames, or face public shaming in front of their “brothers” or “sisters.” The goal is to break down an individual’s self-esteem and foster absolute compliance.

• Digital/Online Hazing: With increasing technological integration, hazing has moved into the digital realm. This includes the use of group chats on platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, and Discord for constant monitoring, issuing humiliating commands, or demanding immediate responses at all hours, contributing to sleep deprivation. Pledges might be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to post embarrassing content on social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, all under the guise of “challenges” or “bonding.” Geo-location tracking apps might even be required to monitor pledges’ movements.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

The misconception that hazing is limited to male fraternities is dangerous and false. Hazing is a pervasive issue across a wide array of student organizations:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes those under the Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council (Panhel), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and various multicultural Greek councils.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: At institutions like Texas A&M, these tradition-heavy groups have faced allegations of hazing disguised as discipline or “tough love.”
• Spirit Squads, Student Organizations, and Clubs: Groups like spirit organizations, tradition clubs (e.g., those similar to the now-suspended Texas Cowboys at UT Austin), cultural associations, and even academic honor societies can perpetuate hazing.
• Athletic Teams: From football to basketball, baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports, hazing on athletic teams is disturbingly common, as demonstrated by the recent scandal at Northwestern University.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even organizations dedicated to the arts have been implicated in severe hazing, such as the tragic death of Robert Champion in the Florida A&M marching band.

Hazing persists because it’s often framed as “tradition,” a rite of passage, or a way to “earn your letters.” This narrative, coupled with fierce loyalty and a code of silence, makes it incredibly difficult for individuals to speak out. Victims fear social exclusion, academic repercussions, or even physical retaliation. This pervasive culture thrives on secrecy, coercion, and the misguided belief that enduring abuse helps create “brotherhood” or “sisterhood.” For families and students in Swisher County, recognizing these modern forms and hidden locations of hazing is the first step toward protection.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing is crucial for families in Swisher County whose children attend Texas universities. Both state and federal laws aim to prevent hazing and hold individuals and institutions accountable. This legal framework provides pathways for criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits, offering a dual approach to justice.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific, robust anti-hazing provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. This code broadly defines hazing, making it clear that dangerous activities are illegal regardless of intent or consent.

Under § 37.151. Definition, hazing is 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.

In plain English, if someone makes you do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk, that is hazing under Texas law. This means:

• Hazing can happen anywhere – on or off campus, in a private residence, or at a retreat.
• The harm can be mental or physical.
• The intent to harm is not required; merely being reckless (knowing the risk and doing it anyway) is enough.
• “Consent is not a defense”: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that even if the victim “agreed” or signed a waiver, the act can still be illegal hazing. This is a critical protection for students under immense peer pressure.

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152):

• Hazing that does not cause serious bodily injury is generally a Class B Misdemeanor (up to 180 days in jail, fine up to $2,000).
• If hazing results in injury requiring medical treatment, it can elevate to a Class A Misdemeanor.
• Crucially, if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a State Jail Felony in Texas, carrying much harsher penalties.
• Additionally, any student, faculty member, or university employee who has knowledge of hazing and fails to report it can face misdemeanor charges. Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
Organizations (fraternities, soror clubs, teams, etc.) can be criminally prosecuted and fined up to $10,000 if they “authorized or encouraged” hazing or if an officer/member acting in an official capacity knew about it and failed to report. Universities can also revoke recognition and ban offending organizations. This provision is vital because it extends accountability beyond just the individual perpetrators to the groups that enable or sanction such behavior.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (§ 37.154):
Texas law protects individuals who report hazing in good faith. This means a person making a report to university officials or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability stemming from that report. Furthermore, Texas’s “Good Samaritan” laws and many university policies provide amnesty for students who call 911 in a medical emergency, even if underage drinking or hazing was involved, encouraging crucial, timely aid.

Reporting by Educational Institutions (§ 37.156):
Texas colleges and universities are mandated to provide hazing prevention education, publish their hazing policies, and annually report all hazing violations and disciplinary actions. This transparency, as seen with UT Austin’s public hazing reports, is a vital tool for families and can provide critical evidence for civil lawsuits.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, families often wonder about the legal avenues available. It’s important to distinguish between criminal and civil cases:

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (a prosecutor) against individuals or organizations accused of violating hazing laws or other criminal statutes. The aim is punishment, which can include jail time, fines, or probation. Hazing-related criminal charges often involve offenses such as assault, battery, furnishing alcohol to minors, and, in tragic cases, manslaughter or negligent homicide.
• Civil Cases: These are brought by victims or their surviving families against individuals, organizations, and institutions seeking monetary compensation for injuries, wrongful death, and other damages. The focus here is on accountability and recovery, not punishment. Civil claims often involve negligence (failure to exercise reasonable care), gross negligence (extreme carelessness), wrongful death, negligent hiring/supervision, premises liability, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Crucially, these two legal pathways can run concurrently. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for pursuing a civil case. In fact, many civil cases result in significant settlements or verdicts even if criminal charges are not filed or do not lead to conviction.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also play a role in combating hazing:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation requires institutions receiving federal funding to be more transparent about hazing incidents. By around 2026, colleges must publicly report hazing violations, strengthen prevention efforts, and maintain accessible data. This enhances accountability and provides crucial information for families.
• Title IX: When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a gender-based hostile environment, Title IX (the federal law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in education) obligations can be triggered. Universities have a duty to investigate and respond promptly and effectively to such allegations, regardless of whether they occurred on or off campus.
• Clery Act: This federal statute requires colleges to disclose campus security policies and crime statistics, including those related to liquor law violations, drug abuse, and sometimes assaults that may be linked to hazing incidents. This data can provide insights into campus safety and potential patterns of misconduct.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Holding responsible parties accountable in a civil hazing lawsuit often involves multiple defendants, depending on the specific facts:

• Individual Students: Those who planned, encouraged, orchestrated, or actively participated in the hazing acts can be held personally liable. This includes officers or “pledge educators” who were in positions of authority. As seen in the Daylen Dunson case related to Stone Foltz’s death, individual officers can face massive personal liability.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The fraternity, sorority, or club itself, if it is a legally recognized entity, can be sued.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters often holds significant responsibility. Their liability can stem from failing to enforce anti-hazing policies, ignoring repeated warnings from other chapters, or demonstrating a pattern of negligence in supervising their local chapters. They collect dues, provide guidance, and are expected to ensure safety.
• University or Governing Board: Universities can be held liable through various legal theories, including negligence in supervision, failure to enforce policies, or showing deliberate indifference to a known hazing problem. While public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) benefit from some sovereign immunity, exceptions exist for gross negligence or Title IX violations. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: This can include landlords or property owners of off-campus houses where hazing occurred, bars or alcohol suppliers under dram shop laws (for serving visibly intoxicated individuals), or even event organizers who facilitated dangerous activities.

Each hazing case is unique, and the potential defendants and paths to liability are highly fact-specific. An experienced hazing attorney from The Manginello Law Firm can meticulously investigate and identify all responsible parties to maximize accountability and recovery for families in Swisher County and across Texas.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragic headlines you see from across the country often follow disturbingly similar patterns. These national cases are not isolated incidents; they reveal systemic failures in organizational oversight, policy enforcement, and a persistent culture of secrecy that prioritizes “tradition” over human life. For families in Swisher County, understanding these precedents is vital, as they set the stage for how hazing cases proceed in Texas courts by demonstrating foreseeability, pattern, and the grievous consequences.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most common and deadliest form of hazing involves forced or coerced alcohol consumption, leading to severe intoxication, injury, and death.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died after a bid-acceptance event involving extreme alcohol consumption. Security cameras inside the Beta Theta Pi house captured Piazza falling multiple times, suffering severe head injuries. Fraternity members delayed calling for help for nearly 12 hours, attempting a cover-up. This preventable death led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, civil lawsuits that resulted in substantial, confidential settlements with the family, and the passage of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, one of the strictest in the nation. The takeaway for Texas families: extreme intoxication, coupled with a deliberate delay in seeking medical aid and attempts at a cover-up, creates a devastating legal and moral liability for all involved.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (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 them rapidly. His death, another entry in a long line of alcohol-related hazing fatalities, resulted in criminal charges against multiple members and prompted Florida State to temporarily suspend all Greek life. This tragedy underscored how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster, one that national fraternities and universities are repeatedly warned about.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game where he was forced to chug whiskey when he answered questions incorrectly. His blood alcohol content was 0.495% at the time of his death. This case led to the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, a felony hazing statute with serious prison time. The Gruver family later secured a $6.1 million verdict against the fraternity and its insurer. This case demonstrated that legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of lethal hazing.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little reveal” night. Multiple fraternity members were convicted of hazing-related criminal charges, including involuntary manslaughter. The Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national and nearly $3 million from Bowling Green State University, a public institution. This case underscored that universities, even those with sovereign immunity, along with national fraternities, can face significant financial and reputational consequences for their role in hazing deaths.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Hazing isn’t always about alcohol; physical brutality and dangerous rituals are also prevalent patterns.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old pledge, died after being blindfolded, weighted down with a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. The “glass ceiling” ritual, a known practice of Pi Delta Psi, caused him a fatal traumatic brain injury. Fraternity members delayed calling for 911 for crucial hours. This led to criminal convictions for multiple members and, significantly, the national fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. This case clearly shows that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or worse than parties and that national organizations face serious sanctions when they fail to control dangerous “traditions.”

• Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021): Danny Santulli, an 18-year-old pledge, was forced to consume excessive alcohol during a “pledge dad reveal” night. He sustained severe, permanent brain damage, leaving him unable to walk, talk, or see, and requiring 24/7 care. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the Santulli family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants including the fraternity, reportedly for multi-million-dollar amounts. This case highlighted the catastrophic non-fatal injuries hazing can inflict, leading to lifelong consequences for victims and their families.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing extends beyond Greek life, often deeply embedded in athletic programs, using “team bonding” as a cover for abuse.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): A massive scandal erupted at Northwestern after former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over multiple years. Players described forced sexual acts, racial slurs, and dehumanizing rituals. Multiple players filed lawsuits against the university and its coaching staff, leading to the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later settled a wrongful-termination suit confidentially. This scandal demonstrated vividly that hazing is not limited to Greek life; major university athletic programs, despite their resources and oversight structure, can harbor systemic and egregious abuse.

What These Cases Mean for Swisher County Families

These anchor stories reveal critical common threads in hazing incidents: forced drinking, physical or psychological humiliation, violence, and, most damningly, a pervasive pattern of delayed or denied medical care and subsequent cover-ups. Reform efforts, heightened legal penalties, and multi-million-dollar settlements often only follow after immense tragedy and sustained litigation.

For families in Swisher County grappling with the aftermath of hazing at a Texas university, these national precedents are not distant relics. They are powerful legal tools. They establish a clear history of risk and illustrate foreknowledge on the part of national organizations and institutions. They demonstrate that the specific types of hazing your child may have experienced are recognized patterns across the country, strengthening arguments for negligence and accountability. Texas families facing hazing at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor are not alone in their struggle and can leverage lessons learned from these national cases in the pursuit of justice.

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

The Manginello Law Firm understands that while hazing is a nationwide problem, its impact is intensely local. For families in Swisher County, whether your child attends school nearby or hundreds of miles away in our vast state, the specific campus culture, policies, and history of hazing at their university are critically important. Our firm, from its Houston office, serves families across Texas, including Swisher County and the surrounding High Plains region, and we are deeply familiar with the institutions that attract students from our communities.

Let’s examine some of the major Texas universities and their particular hazing contexts.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

Families in Swisher County with students at the University of Houston, or considering attending, should be aware of the institution’s approach to hazing. As the third-largest university in Texas, a major urban campus right in Houston, UH attracts a diverse and dynamic student body. Many students from Swisher County pursue higher education here, making the campus environment a significant concern for our community.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH is a large, public, urban university with a mix of commuter and residential students. Its Greek life is active and vibrant, with a wide array of fraternities and sororities under various councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural groups). Beyond Greek life, numerous student organizations, including cultural clubs, sports clubs, and academic associations, offer opportunities for involvement. This rich student activity scene, while beneficial, also creates numerous potential settings for hazing.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, prohibiting any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. This policy applies whether the acts occur on-campus or off-campus. UH specifically bans forced consumption of alcohol/food/drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and activities causing mental distress. The university outlines specific reporting channels through the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). UH also posts a public statement on hazing on its website, encouraging reporting and outlining disciplinary measures.

5.1.3 Example Incidents & Response

The University of Houston has a documented history of hazing incidents. A notable case involved its Pi Kappa Alpha chapter around 2016. Pledges allegedly endured severe sleep, food, and water deprivation during a multi-day event. One student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being violently slammed onto a table or similar surface as part of the hazing. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges from local authorities and was subsequently met with suspension from the university. In other instances, UH has disciplined various fraternities for behavior “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” often involving alcohol misuse and policy violations, resulting in suspensions or probation. These cases highlight UH’s willingness to take action against offending chapters. However, the exact details of violations are not always publicly available, making it challenging for families to track patterns without direct legal inquiry.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Swisher County family dealing with a hazing incident at UH, legal proceedings could involve multiple entities. If the incident occurred on campus, the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) would likely be involved. If off-campus in Houston, the Houston Police Department (HPD) would have jurisdiction. Any resulting civil lawsuits would typically be filed in courts within Harris County, given UH’s location. Possible 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 where the hazing occurred.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

• Report Strategically: Families in Swisher County should know that reporting hazing at UH can be done via the Dean of Students office, UHPD, or confidential online forms. It’s often advisable to consult with a lawyer before making formal reports to protect your rights and gather evidence.
• Document Thoroughly: Due to potential gaps in public disciplinary records, meticulously documenting any prior complaints, past incidents, or informal warnings regarding a specific UH organization can be critical for a future civil case.
• Seek Experienced Counsel: Talking to a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases can help Swisher County families uncover prior discipline, access internal files through discovery, and navigate the specific legal landscape of a large urban university.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University in College Station is a deeply tradition-rich institution, a prominent destination for many students from Swisher County and across Texas. Its unique culture, including the Corps of Cadets and robust Greek life, brings with it particular challenges in addressing hazing that families need to understand.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M is renowned for its strong traditions, the Aggie Spirit, and its military-style Corps of Cadets, which fosters a regimented environment. While Greek life is also significant, the Corps is a powerful cultural force, often viewed as a “leadership factory.” This tradition-heavy atmosphere, while building strong bonds, has unfortunately also provided fertile ground for hazing disguised as discipline or rites of passage. Many families in Swisher County deeply value A&M’s traditions, making it crucial to differentiate healthy tradition from dangerous hazing.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M unequivocally prohibits hazing, both on and off campus. Their policies cover physical abuse, mental distress, forced consumption of substances, and any activity that creates a hostile environment. Reporting channels include the Dean of Student Life, the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD), and specific mechanisms within the Corps of Cadets. The university emphasizes that participation or consent does not absolve hazers of responsibility.

5.2.3 Example Incidents & Response

Texas A&M has faced significant hazing allegations over the years:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (around 2021): Two pledges alleged they were forced into strenuous activity and covered with various substances, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring emergency skin graft surgeries. The SAE chapter was suspended by the university, and the pledges took legal action.
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing within the Corps. The allegations included simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, while A&M maintained it addressed the matter under its internal rules.
• Kappa Sigma (2023): Allegations surfaced internally of hazing resulting in severe injuries linked to rhabdomyolysis—a severe muscle breakdown from extreme physical exertion, leading to potential kidney damage. This incident is at the heart of ongoing litigation.

These incidents highlight that hazing at A&M occurs across different organizations and can involve extreme physical and chemical abuse, emphasizing the need for robust legal advocacy.

5.2.4 How an A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Swisher County family facing a hazing incident involving Texas A&M, proceedings would involve the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) for on-campus incidents or Bryan/College Station police for off-campus. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in Brazos County courts. Potential defendants could include individuals, local chapters (both Greek and Corps-affiliated), national organizations, and potentially the university itself. Cases involving the Corps of Cadets introduce additional complexities related to military-style organizations.

5.2.5 What A&M Students & Parents Should Do

• Understand the Culture: Swisher County families should deeply understand the distinction between valuable A&M traditions and dangerous hazing, especially within the Corps.
• Document and Report: Use the university’s reporting systems, but safeguard all evidence first. The secrecy around Corps hazing, in particular, means that meticulously documented evidence is critical.
• Seek Specialized Legal Counsel: Given the unique cultural context and the power of A&M and its Corps of Cadets, families should consult legal counsel experienced in complex hazing litigation to navigate potential defenses related to “tradition” or “voluntary participation.”

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is a flagship institution and a popular choice for many students leaving Swisher County. Its large, energetic campus and extensive Greek life mean that hazing remains a persistent concern.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is one of the largest public universities in the country, known for its vibrant campus life, passionate school spirit, and prominent Greek community. With dozens of fraternities and sororities, as well as numerous other student organizations, the opportunities for student involvement are vast—as are the potential environments for hazing. The university’s location in Austin, known for its dynamic social scene, also contributes to a landscape where off-campus activities can be rife with hazing concealed from university oversight.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Texas at Austin has a clear, comprehensive anti-hazing policy that applies to all student organizations, on or off campus, at any time of the year. UT Austin explicitly defines prohibited acts, including those that risk mental or physical health, such as forced alcohol consumption, physical activities, and public humiliation. Crucially, UT maintains a unique and publicly accessible Hazing Violations page on its website (hazing.utexas.edu), which lists organizations, dates of infractions, specific conduct, and sanctions. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).

5.3.3 Example Incidents & Response

UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations page is a critical resource, showcasing a consistent pattern of hazing across various organizations:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): The chapter was found responsible for hazing after new members were directed to consume milk and engage in strenuous calisthenics, activities designed to create physical discomfort and endanger their health. The chapter was placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Texas Wranglers (2022): This spirit organization faced sanctions for alcohol-related hazing and mandatory, punishing physical activities.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): The chapter faced a lawsuit after an Australian exchange student alleged assault at a fraternity party, resulting in severe injuries including a dislocated leg, fractured tibia, and broken nose. The chapter was already under suspension for prior hazing and safety violations, demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance.
• Numerous other instances document forced workouts, sleep deprivation, and emotionally degrading practices by both Greek and non-Greek organizations.

UT’s high level of transparency, while commendable, also reveals the ongoing challenge of combating deeply ingrained hazing cultures. Repeated violations on their public log can strongly support civil lawsuits by demonstrating institutional knowledge and patterns of misconduct.

5.3.4 How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Swisher County family concerned about an incident at UT Austin, investigations may involve the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) for campus-related incidents or the Austin Police Department (APD) for off-campus events. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed within Travis County courts. The public record of hazing violations at UT can be a powerful tool for plaintiffs, demonstrating foreseeability and the university’s prior knowledge of problematic organizations. Potential defendants would again include individuals, the local chapter, national organizations, and potentially the university.

5.3.5 What UT Students & Parents Should Do

• Utilize Public Records: Swisher County parents can check UT’s Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu) to understand an organization’s history before their child joins.
• Report Strategically: While UT provides excellent reporting channels, consulting with an attorney first can help protect rights and ensure evidence is preserved before campus authorities conduct investigations.
• Document Everything (Especially Digital): Given the social media-savvy UT population, rapidly screenshotting digital evidence related to hazing is paramount. Digital forensics experts are often crucial in these cases.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

SMU in Dallas, a private institution, has its own unique hazing challenges, often characterized by a strong Greek presence within an affluent student body. For Swisher County families, particularly those with strong ties across northern Texas, understanding SMU’s culture is vital.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Southern Methodist University is a private university located in Dallas, known for its beautiful campus and robust Greek life. SMU attracts a significant number of students involved in fraternities and sororities, which play a central role in campus social life. This environment, while fostering strong alumni networks, also presents specific hazing risks often tied to “exclusive” membership and ingrained traditions within private organizations.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains strong anti-hazing policies, prohibiting any acts that endanger the mental or physical health or safety of a student, whether on or off campus. SMU explicitly states that “consent is not a defense” to hazing. The university’s reporting channels include the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, the SMU Police Department, and anonymous reporting systems like SMU Aware or third-party platforms such as Real Response.

5.4.3 Example Incidents & Response

SMU has disciplined numerous fraternities and sororities for hazing violations over the years:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): This fraternity was suspended for multiple years after reports of new members being paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and deprived of sleep during initiation. The chapter faced restrictions on recruiting upon its eventual return to campus.
• Other SMU organizations have faced disciplinary actions for alcohol misuse, forced physical activities, and various forms of harassment and degradation during pledging periods. Because SMU is a private institution, the public availability of detailed disciplinary records can be more limited compared to public universities like UT Austin. However, this does not diminish the severity of the incidents or the university’s responsibility.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Swisher County family with a child at SMU, legal action would typically involve the Dallas Police Department for off-campus criminal incidents. Civil lawsuits would be filed in Dallas County courts. As a private institution, SMU generally has fewer immunity protections than public universities, potentially simplifying certain aspects of litigation against the university itself. Families often need specialized legal counsel to compel discovery and uncover internal university records that may not be publicly disclosed.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

• Be Aware of Private Institution Differences: Swisher County families should recognize that while SMU has robust policies, gaining public information about past hazing incidents may require legal channels.
• Document and Report Discreetly: Utilizing SMU’s anonymous reporting systems can be a first step, but any evidence collected should be meticulously preserved and reviewed with an attorney before formal university-level reports that might trigger investigations controlled by the institution.
• Consult Legal Counsel Early: An attorney experienced in hazing cases can strategically navigate the complexities of a private university’s internal processes and policies to best protect your child’s legal rights.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University in Waco, while a private Christian institution, has faced its own significant challenges with student conduct and accountability, issues often relevant to hazing incidents. For Swisher County families who value Baylor’s faith-based education, understanding its approach to hazing is critical.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University, a private Baptist university, combines strong academic programs with a faith-based mission. It supports a vibrant Greek life and numerous other student organizations. Baylor’s culture, like many Texas institutions, is steeped in tradition, and it has faced intense scrutiny in recent years regarding institutional oversight, particularly in the context of sexual assault and other misconduct claims. This history informs how the university approaches student safety, including hazing.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor maintains a “zero-tolerance” policy for hazing that applies to all student organizations, whether on or off campus. Their policies explicitly prohibit physical and mental abuse, forced consumption of prohibited substances, and any activity that could be perceived as demeaning, humiliating, or dangerous. Baylor provides reporting mechanisms through the Dean of Students Office, the Baylor University Police Department, and an anonymous tip line. The university also publishes a list of organizations currently under disciplinary review on its website.

5.5.3 Example Incidents & Response

Baylor has experienced hazing incidents across various organizations:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): An investigation led to the suspension of 14 baseball players for hazing violations. The suspensions were staggered through the early season, highlighting the university’s internal disciplinary process. While specific details were not widely publicized, the incident brought attention to hazing within athletic programs at Baylor.
• Like other universities, Baylor has disciplined Greek organizations for alcohol-related hazing, forced physical activities, and other forms of unacceptable initiation practices. Baylor’s recent history of high-profile oversight failures, distinct from hazing but relevant to institutional accountability, means any hazing incident will likely be viewed through a lens of heightened scrutiny from the public and potential litigants.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a Swisher County family involved in a hazing incident at Baylor, criminal investigations could fall under the Baylor University Police Department or the Waco Police Department. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in McLennan County courts. As a private university, Baylor does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it a more direct target for negligence claims. However, its strong legal team and historical experience with litigation mean that families pursuing claims should be prepared for a robust defense.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

• Review Policies and History: Swisher County families should thoroughly review Baylor’s anti-hazing policies, as well as its history of addressing student misconduct, to understand the institutional context.
• Document and Seek Counsel: Given Baylor’s experience with legal challenges, it is especially important to meticulously document every detail and seek legal counsel early. An experienced attorney can navigate the complexities of a private university’s internal processes and advocate for your child’s rights.
• Understand Baylor’s “Zero-Tolerance” Pledge: While Baylor states a zero-tolerance policy, the effectiveness of enforcement can require legal scrutiny and advocacy, especially if the university appears to prioritize its reputation over full accountability.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Connecting the dots between local chapters at Texas universities and their national organizations’ hazing histories is a critical step in building a strong legal case. From Swisher County, it’s easy to see a fraternity or sorority as just a local group, but in reality, they are part of larger, nationally coordinated bodies. When a tragic incident occurs, these national organizations often bear significant responsibility.

Why National Histories Matter

The reality is that many fraternities and sororities, including those with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, are managed by national headquarters. These national bodies:

• Develop the policies, rules, and guidelines that local chapters are supposed to follow.
• Provide “risk management” training sessions to chapters.
• Collect dues and maintain communication with their local affiliates.
• Possess extensive records of past incidents, violations, and disciplinary actions from chapters across the country.

Crucially, these national organizations often have thick anti-hazing manuals and elaborate risk management policies precisely because they have seen deaths, severe injuries, and multi-million-dollar lawsuits in the past. They know the patterns: the forced drinking nights, the paddling “traditions,” the humiliating rituals. They understand precisely how specific types of hazing lead to specific types of injuries and deaths.

When a local chapter at a Texas university replicates a hazing scenario that led to a death or catastrophic injury at another campus in a different state, attorneys can argue that the national organization had foreseeability. They knew, or should have known, that such behavior was occurring within their system and had the means to prevent it. This can be a powerful argument for establishing negligence or even gross negligence against national entities, affecting settlement leverage, insurance coverage disputes, and potential punitive damages.

Organization Mapping: National Hazing Patterns

While specific rosters fluctuate, several national fraternities and sororities have documented histories of hazing incidents across the country. Here, we highlight some that consistently appear in national hazing incident databases, with chapters often found at the major Texas universities:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity has been involved in several fatal alcohol-related hazing incidents nationally, most notably the Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green State University ($10 million settlement). Another Pike death, David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University ($14 million settlement), also involved alcohol poisoning. These cases involved “Big/Little” reveal nights or pledge events with forced, excessive drinking. Chapters of Pi Kappa Alpha are present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor, and the national pattern of alcohol-related hazing makes any similar incident in Texas highly foreseeable.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): SAE has a long and tragic history of hazing-related deaths and severe injuries across the U.S. This includes incidents involving physical abuse and extreme alcohol consumption. Recent lawsuits against SAE chapters, including a traumatic brain injury case at the University of Alabama (2023) and severe chemical burns for pledges at Texas A&M (2021), demonstrate their continued exposure. An Australian exchange student also sued the UT Austin SAE chapter in 2024 for over $1 million after an alleged assault. Chapters of Sigma Alpha Epsilon are present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): This fraternity was linked to the tragic death of Max Gruver at Louisiana State University ($6.1 million verdict), involving a forced drinking game. Similar incidents have occurred involving Phi Delta Theta chapters across the nation, highlighting a pattern of dangerous alcohol hazing. Chapters exist at UH, Texas A&M, SMU, and Baylor.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): This fraternity was responsible for the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University during a “Big Brother Night” involving extreme alcohol use. Pi Kappa Phi chapters are found at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin.

• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): This fraternity was at the center of the Timothy Piazza tragedy at Penn State University, a landmark case involving extreme alcohol, physical injury, and delayed medical care. Chapters are found at UH, Texas A&M, SMU, and Baylor.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): This fraternity was found liable in the Chad Meredith drowning death at the University of Miami, leading to a $12.6 million verdict. Reports of severe hazing, including rhabdomyolysis from extreme physical exertion, have also surfaced at Texas A&M’s Kappa Sigma chapter. Chapters of Kappa Sigma are present at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor.

• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI): This fraternity was involved in the Danny Santulli case at the University of Missouri, where a pledge suffered permanent brain damage due to forced alcohol consumption. Texas A&M has a FIJI chapter.

This list is not exhaustive, and many other fraternities and sororities have faced hazing allegations or disciplinary actions. However, these examples illustrate a crucial point: the names, the tactics, and the often tragic outcomes of hazing incidents are frequently repeated across different chapters of the same national organizations, year after year.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The historical patterns and national incidents involving these organizations are crucial for several reasons in a legal context:

• Foreseeability: Past incidents demonstrate that national organizations and, by extension, universities responsible for overseeing these groups, had ample notice that certain types of hazing could lead to severe harm. They cannot credibly claim ignorance when similar incidents occur.
• Negligent Supervision: If a national organization has a history of hazing deaths or severe injuries, yet fails to meaningfully enforce its own anti-hazing policies, punish repeat offenders, or implement effective prevention programs, it strengthens a claim of negligent supervision.
• Insurance Coverage: Many national organizations carry substantial liability insurance. However, insurers will often try to deny coverage for “intentional acts” like hazing. An attorney who can demonstrate a pattern of negligence in supervision, rather than just isolated intentional acts, can help overcome these coverage denials, enabling families to access the funds needed for medical care and other damages. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is invaluable for navigating these complex disputes, as she understands the insurance industry’s tactics.
• Punitive Damages: In egregious cases where national organizations show a willful disregard for safety despite repeated warnings, punitive damages (designed to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct) may be available. These damages require proving a high level of misconduct, and national hazing histories are often key evidence.

For families in Swisher County, understanding this connection between local incidents and national patterns is empowering. It transforms an isolated tragedy into part of a broader, systemic failure, strengthening the demand for accountability from all responsible parties.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

If your child has been a victim of hazing, whether at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, or another Texas institution, building a strong legal case requires meticulous evidence collection, a deep understanding of applicable damages, and a clear legal strategy. The Manginello Law Firm approaches hazing litigation with the same rigor and investigative depth as our most complex federal cases, ensuring no stone is left unturned.

Evidence is Everything

In hazing cases, evidence disappears rapidly. Group chats are deleted, witnesses graduate, and organizations quickly move to create a narrative that shields them from liability. This is why immediate action to secure evidence is critical.

• Digital Communications: In 2025, group chats and direct messages (DMs) are often the most potent evidence. Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, iMessage, Discord, and fraternity-specific apps are where plans are made, commands are given, and incidents are often discussed or even filmed. We seek evidence of:

  • Messages planning hazing activities.
  • Instructions given to pledges.
  • Discussions of secrecy or cover-ups.
  • Deleted messages (which digital forensics experts can often recover).
    Families from Swisher County should immediately screenshot and back up any digital communications your child has. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos.

• Photos & Videos: Many hazing incidents are now captured on smartphones. This can include:

  • Video footage of hazing events in progress, often taken by members for “entertainment.”
  • Photos or videos shared in group chats or on private social media.
  • Security camera footage from fraternity houses, nearby residences (e.g., Ring doorbell cameras), or public venues.
  • Critical: Photos of injuries, taken at multiple angles, over several days, with an object for scale (like a coin or ruler).

• Internal Organization Documents: Through legal discovery, we seek:

  • Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, or “tradition” documents.
  • Emails or texts from officers discussing “new member education.”
  • National anti-hazing policies and risk management materials (to show a gap between policy and practice).

• University Records: Open records requests and subpoenas can reveal:

  • Prior disciplinary records for the specific chapter or individuals.
  • Incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices.
  • Emails between administrators discussing concerns about student organizations.
  • University hazing misconduct reports required by the Texas Education Code § 37.156.

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

  • Emergency room reports, ambulance records, hospitalization notes, and toxicology results (especially crucial in alcohol poisoning cases).
  • Records from surgeries, ongoing physical therapy, or rehabilitation.
  • Evaluations from psychiatrists or psychologists documenting PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other mental health impacts, which are critical for non-economic damages.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are invaluable. This includes:

  • Other pledges or new members who experienced or witnessed the hazing.
  • Current or former members with knowledge of hazing practices.
  • Roommates, resident advisors (RAs), coaches, trainers, or other students who observed changes in the victim’s behavior or saw the hazing unfold.

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Our role is to ensure that victims and families are fully compensated for every aspect of the harm caused by hazing. The types of damages we pursue include:

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all past and future medical expenses, including emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, and ongoing therapy (physical, occupational, speech, psychological), and, in catastrophic injury cases, a life care plan for long-term needs.
• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This includes lost wages due to time off work, as well as the significant financial impact of missed semesters, lost scholarships, delayed graduation, and, in cases of permanent disability, a diminished lifetime earning capacity.
• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for the subjective yet profound impact of hazing, including physical pain and suffering, severe emotional distress (such as trauma, humiliation, shame, anxiety, and depression), and the loss of enjoyment of life (e.g., inability to participate in activities, withdrawal from social life, or impact on future relationships).
• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the most tragic cases, when hazing leads to death, surviving family members (parents, spouses, children) can recover for funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support, and, critically, the profound loss of companionship, love, and emotional support. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases.
• Punitive Damages: In cases involving particularly egregious conduct, where defendants acted with malice, gross negligence, or a reckless disregard for safety despite prior warnings, punitive damages may be sought. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoers and deter similar conduct in the future, providing an additional layer of accountability.

We don’t just calculate damages; we work with expert economists, life care planners, and medical professionals to build a comprehensive picture of financial and non-financial losses. Our goal is to ensure your family recovers everything needed for healing and long-term security.

Navigating Defense Tactics and Insurance Coverage

Hazing cases often involve sophisticated defendants—national fraternities, wealthy universities—with powerful legal teams and substantial insurance policies. We anticipate and dismantle common defense tactics:

• “The Pledge Consented”: Texas law, through Education Code § 37.155, explicitly counters this, stating consent is not a defense to hazing. We argue that true consent cannot exist in an environment of power imbalance, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion.
• “Rogue Chapter/National Didn’t Know”: We use evidence of prior incidents, national policy failures, and the national organization’s oversight duties to demonstrate foreseeability and negligent supervision.
• “Off-Campus Incident”: Location does not absolve liability. If the organization sponsored, encouraged, or knew about off-campus hazing, they can still be held responsible.
• Insurance Exclusions: Insurance companies often try to deny coverage by arguing hazing was an “intentional act” or “criminal.” However, we strategically frame cases around a negligent failure to supervise or prevent, which is typically covered. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is crucial here, as she knows how to effectively challenge these denials.

Every case is a fight, and we’re prepared to take it to trial if fair settlements are not offered. Our focus isn’t just winning; it’s maximizing recovery while achieving the accountability needed to prevent such tragedies from happening again.

Practical Guides & FAQs

When hazing impacts a family in Swisher County, feelings of confusion, fear, and powerlessness are common. Knowing what to do, what to look for, and who to trust can make all the difference. This section provides immediate, actionable guidance for parents, students, and even witnesses caught in the web of hazing.

8.1 For Parents: Your Action Guide

As a parent, your intuition is your strongest tool. If something feels off, it probably is.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be alert to changes in your child’s physical and emotional state, especially if they’ve recently joined a new organization:
  • Unexplained physical injuries: Bruises, burns, cuts, or repetitive strain injuries—especially if your child offers vague or unbelievable explanations.
  • Extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation: Constant late nights, early mornings, or frequent calls or texts during sleeping hours.
  • Drastic changes in mood or behavior: Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, withdrawal from family or old friends, fearfulness, or secrecy about their new group’s activities (“I can’t talk about it”).
  • Changes in appearance: Sudden weight loss or gain, poor hygiene, or looking disheveled.
  • Obsessive phone use for group chats: Appearing anxious if they miss a notification, or constantly checking their phone for mandatory messages.
  • “Just getting through it” mentality: Rationalizing their discomfort by saying “everyone did it” or “I just have to make it to initiation.”
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation with empathy and without judgment. Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priority, not the status of the organization. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going? Is anything making you uncomfortable?” Reassure them that you will support them no matter what.
• If Your Child Is Hurt: Prioritize their health. Get them immediate medical attention. Then, document absolutely everything: take photos of injuries, save text messages or social media posts, and write down every detail your child shares (dates, times, names, locations).
• Dealing with the University: Document all communications with university administrators thoroughly. Ask for specific details about prior incidents involving the organization in question and what the school’s response was. Understand that universities may prioritize their reputation, so proceed carefully.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing what happened, it’s time to consult an attorney. The Manginello Law Firm can help guide Swisher County families through these complex decisions.

8.2 For Students / Pledges: Your Rights and Exit Strategy

If you are a student from Swisher County experiencing hazing, remember: you are not alone, and you have rights.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? If you feel unsafe, humiliated, coerced, forced to drink or endure pain, or if the activity is hidden from public view – it is hazing. The law cares about the conduct, not the label the organization gives it. If older members are making new members do things they don’t have to do, that’s a red flag.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: Even if you “agreed,” you likely did so under immense pressure, fear of exclusion, and a desire to belong. Texas law recognizes this power imbalance, explicitly stating that consent is not a defense to hazing. Your “agreement” does not make illegal acts legal.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: If you feel unsafe, remove yourself immediately. You have the legal right to leave an organization at any time. If you fear retaliation, tell a trusted adult first (parent, RA, professor). You can report hazing privately or anonymously through campus channels, the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE), or an attorney.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Most schools and Texas law provide amnesty for students who seek medical help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or hazing was involved. This is designed to save lives, not punish you for seeking help.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses: Your Role in Accountability

If you were once a part of a hazing culture, you may carry guilt or fear. However, your testimony can be critical in preventing future harm and saving lives.

• Your Testimony Matters: Your knowledge of past hazing, internal group communications, or specific incidents can be invaluable evidence. It can help establish patterns, prove foreseeability, and hold responsible parties accountable.
• Navigating Legal Exposure: While you may be concerned about your own legal exposure, cooperating with law enforcement or a civil attorney can often lead to better outcomes. An attorney can help you understand your rights and potential protections as a witness or even a co-defendant. In some cases, cooperating with authorities can lead to immunity or leniency. Your testimony can be a powerful step toward personal and institutional accountability.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For families in Swisher County facing the daunting prospect of addressing hazing, avoiding certain common missteps is paramount to protecting your legal rights and ensuring a strong case.

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence:

   • What parents might think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble by keeping incriminating evidence.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Deleting evidence not only looks like a cover-up but can also constitute obstruction of justice and severely weaken any potential legal case. It makes discovering the truth nearly impossible.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even content that feels embarrassing or incriminating. Attorneys can help retrieve deleted messages, but original screenshots are always best.

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly:

   • What parents might think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind and demand answers.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Direct confrontation will almost certainly cause the organization to immediately “lawyer up,” destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses, making it much harder to build your case.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in private. Then, consult with a lawyer before any direct confrontation or communication with the organization.

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms:

   • What universities might do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements that promise a quick end to the issue.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may unknowingly waive your legal right to sue or settle for far less than the true value of the case. These agreements are often designed more to protect the institution than to fully compensate victims.
   • What to do instead: Never sign anything from the university or any organization without an attorney reviewing it first.

4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer:

   • What families might think: “I want people to know what happened to my child and warn others.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys will screenshot everything you post. Inconsistencies between your posts and legal testimony can damage credibility. Public posts can also inadvertently waive legal privileges or compromise ongoing criminal investigations.
   • What to do instead: Document privately. Your lawyer can then strategically manage public communication if that becomes part of your overall strategy.

5. Letting Your Child Go Back to “One Last Meeting” with the Organization:

   • What fraternities/sororities might say: “Just come talk to us before you do anything drastic; we want to hear your side.”
   • Why it’s wrong: These meetings are often designed to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can later be used against your child in a legal proceeding. Your child is vulnerable and may not be equipped to handle such a situation alone.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication with the organization should typically be handled by your attorney.

6. Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”:

   • What universities might promise: “We’re investigating this internally; let us handle it.”
   • Why it’s wrong: While university investigations are important, they often move slowly, prioritize the institution’s reputation, and may not lead to the comprehensive justice or compensation your family deserves. Evidence fades, witnesses graduate, and statutes of limitations can expire while you wait.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence immediately and consult a lawyer. The university process and civil legal action are not mutually exclusive and can often run in parallel, with your attorney ensuring both pathways are properly managed.

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer:

   • What adjusters might say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters represent the interests of the insurance company, not yours. Any statement you give can be recorded and used against you to minimize your claim. Early settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to provide a statement and inform them that your attorney will contact them.

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, 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, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  Yes, it can be. While hazing is typically a Class B misdemeanor, it becomes a state jail felony in Texas if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who fail to report hazing can also face misdemeanor 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 “agreement” given under peer pressure, power imbalance, or fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”
  Generally, there is a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to understand the specific deadline for your case. Learn about Texas statute of limitations in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of the hazing does not necessarily eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be held responsible based on their sponsorship, control over the organization, knowledge of the activities, and foreseeability of the risk. Many major hazing cases (like the Pi Delta Psi retreat death of Michael Deng) occurred entirely off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

• “Will a lawsuit be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  While some high-profile cases do garner media attention, most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. It is often possible to request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy and work to minimize public exposure while pursuing full accountability.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in Swisher County faces the devastating impact of hazing at a Texas campus, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, we are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ with the unparalleled expertise to take on these complex and emotionally charged cases.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Swisher County and the surrounding High Plains region, understanding that hazing at Texas universities can impact any community. We bring a unique, aggressive, and highly effective approach to hazing litigation:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our Associate Attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. She knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims, anticipates their delay tactics, understands their coverage exclusion arguments, and dissects their internal settlement strategies. We know their playbook because we used to run it.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Our managing partner, Ralph P. Manginello, has decades of experience taking on formidable defendants. He was one of the few Texas firms involved in the massive BP Texas City explosion litigation. This federal court experience (including the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, wealthy universities, or their sophisticated defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won; we know how to fight powerful defendants.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases, working with expert economists, life care planners, and medical professionals to ensure full compensation. We don’t settle cheap. We meticulously build cases that force accountability and secure the long-term care victims need.
• Criminal and Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us a distinct advantage. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation and can advise witnesses, former members, and victims on their rights regarding dual exposure.
• Unmatched Investigative Depth: Recovering from hazing means uncovering everything. We deploy a network of experts—digital forensics specialists, medical experts, economists, and psychologists—to gather every piece of evidence. This includes obtaining deleted group chats, subpoenaing national fraternity records showing prior incidents, and uncovering university files through discovery and public records requests. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

We understand the specific cultures and operational nuances of Texas universities and their Greek systems, Corps programs, and athletic departments. We know how to investigate modern hazing, from digital evidence to witness testimony. What makes hazing cases different is the combination of powerful institutional defendants, complex insurance coverage fights, and the need to balance victim privacy with public accountability. We understand Greek culture, the persuasive power of “tradition,” and how to prove coercion even when victims initially “agreed.”

We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to listen with empathy, get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We are about thorough investigation and real accountability, not just quick settlements.

Call to Action for Swisher County Families

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

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

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen to your complete story without judgment.
• We will review any evidence you have collected—photos, texts, medical records, or notes.
• We will explain your legal options clearly, discussing whether a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither, is appropriate for your situation.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the legal process.
• We will answer your questions about legal fees. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Watch our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
• There is absolutely no pressure to hire us on the spot—take the time you need to decide.
• Everything you tell us is strictly confidential.

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

Call us today.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781 (Ralph Manginello)
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.

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