Hazing in Texas: A Definitive Guide for City of Katy Families

A late-night text from your child at a Texas university—perhaps the University of Houston in our neighboring Harris County, or even Texas A&M out in College Station, or UT Austin—reads, “Mom, I don’t feel so good. Promise not to tell anyone?” Another student hears alarming chants coming from an off-campus house where new members are meant to be bonding. A parent sees unexplained bruises or a sudden, dramatic shift in their child’s personality after they join a promising new student organization. These scenarios are not hypothetical fears; they are the unsettling reality for many families in City of Katy and across Texas as students grapple with the dangerous and illegal practice of hazing.

It’s “initiation night” at an off-campus fraternity house near one of our state’s major universities. A bright, eager student, hoping to fit in and make lifelong friends, is pressured to drink far beyond safe limits. Other students film on phones, chanting, laughing, pushing the limits. Suddenly someone gets hurt—they fall, vomit, or collapse—but nobody wants to call 911 because they’re afraid of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble” themselves. The student feels trapped, torn between loyalty to the group and their own safety, or the safety of another pledge. For families here in City of Katy, who often send their children to these very schools, the thought of their child in such a precarious position is terrifying.

This guide was created for families like yours, in City of Katy and across Texas, who need to understand the complex landscape of hazing. We delve into what hazing truly looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes to reveal its modern forms, including digital and psychological tactics. We explain the intricate Texas and federal legal frameworks that govern hazing, and we connect major national hazing cases to what’s happening at our state’s prominent institutions: the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University. Most importantly, we outline the legal options available to victims and their families in City of Katy, Houston, and greater Texas, who are seeking accountability and justice.

While this article offers comprehensive general information, it is not a substitute for specific legal advice. Every case has unique facts, and we at The Manginello Law Firm are here to evaluate your individual situation. We serve families throughout Texas, including those here in City of Katy, Houston, Barker, Fulshear, and the broader Harris and Fort Bend County areas, ensuring that no family has to navigate this difficult journey alone.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 911 for medical emergencies
  • Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
  • We provide immediate help – that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™

• In the first 48 hours:

  • Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.” Prioritize their health and safety above all else.
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
    • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages (DMs) immediately. Capture full threads with timestamps and participant names.
    • Photograph any injuries from multiple angles, including close-ups and using an object for scale (like a coin).
    • Save physical items such as clothing worn during the hazing, receipts for forced purchases, or any objects used.
  • Write down everything while memory is fresh: who was involved, what happened, when and where it took place, and any specific language used. This creates a critical contemporaneous record.
  • Do NOT:
    • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization’s members or leadership directly. This can lead to evidence destruction or retaliation.
    • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal advice. These documents can waive your rights.
    • Post details on public social media. This can compromise your case.
    • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence of any kind, no matter how embarrassing it may seem.

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

  • Evidence disappears fast—group chats are deleted, physical objects are destroyed, and witnesses may be coached or intimidated.
  • Universities often move quickly to control the narrative and manage public perception.
  • We can help preserve crucial evidence, protect your child’s rights, and guide you through immediate next steps.
  • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

The image of hazing often conjures up outdated stereotypes: a few silly pranks or harmless initiation rituals. However, this perception is dangerously far from the reality of hazing in 2025. Modern hazing practices are insidious, often brutal, and can have devastating physical, psychological, and even fatal consequences. For City of Katy families, understanding these contemporary hazing tactics is the first step toward protecting a child.

Hazing, in its essence, 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. It is crucial to remember that a student’s “agreement” or “consent” does not automatically make the activity safe or legal, especially when peer pressure, historical “tradition,” and a power imbalance are at play.

Main Categories of Hazing

We categorize modern hazing into several interconnected types, each designed to assert dominance and control over new members:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most common and deadliest forms. It involves forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often in rapid succession. This can include “lineups,” “chugging challenges,” drinking games where mistakes are punished with more alcohol, or being pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances. The goal is often to incapacitate pledges, making them vulnerable.

• Physical Hazing: This type involves any act that subjects pledges to physical pain or exhaustion. It includes but is not limited to paddling, beatings, and violent assaults. Often disguised as “workouts” or “conditioning,” physical hazing can involve extreme calisthenics, forced strenuous activities far beyond safe limits, sleep deprivation, or food and water deprivation. Pledges may be exposed to extreme cold or heat, or forced into dangerous environments.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are profoundly damaging and often involve forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (like the “roasted pig” position), or wearing degrading costumes. This category also encompasses degrading acts with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones, including the use of slurs or forced role-playing of stereotypes. The aim is psychological subjugation and dehumanization.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but deeply harmful, psychological hazing involves sustained verbal abuse, threats, and calculated social isolation. It includes manipulation, forced confessions, and public shaming—both in person and, increasingly, on social media or in digital groups. This type of hazing erodes self-esteem and creates a climate of fear and anxiety.

• Digital/Online Hazing: This is a burgeoning and insidious form of hazing that leverages technology. It can involve group chat dares, “challenges” (often dangerous or humiliating), and public embarrassment via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, and even private communication channels. Pledges may be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to expose their location via GPS tracking apps. This form of hazing is insidious because it extends the control of the group into every aspect of a student’s life, 24/7.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is not confined to any single type of organization. While fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural Greek-letter organizations) are frequently associated with hazing incidents, it plagues a wide array of student groups, including:

• Corps of Cadets, ROTC, and military-style organizations.
• Spirit squads and tradition clubs (like the “Texas Cowboys” at UT Austin).
• Athletic teams, ranging from football, basketball, and baseball to cheerleading and club sports.
• Marching bands and other performing arts groups.
• Various service, cultural, and academic organizations.

Regardless of the group, the underlying dynamics are often the same: social status, a perceived sense of “tradition,” and a strict culture of secrecy combine to perpetuate these dangerous practices, even when everyone involved “knows” hazing is illegal and explicitly prohibited by university policy. For City of Katy families, it’s vital to recognize that your child’s chosen activity, no matter how benign it seems on the surface, might harbor hazing risks.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Navigating the legal aftermath of a hazing incident can feel overwhelming, especially for families in City of Katy suddenly facing complex legal terms and procedures. In Texas, a robust legal framework exists to combat hazing, encompassing both criminal and civil statutes, with a growing federal overlay. Understanding these laws is crucial for seeking justice and accountability.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions primarily outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. Texas Education Code § 37.151 broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by an individual or group, on or off campus, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office in, or maintaining membership in an organization whose members are primarily students.

In plain terms, if someone makes a student do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant for it to happen or were simply reckless about the risks involved, that is hazing under Texas law. Key aspects of this definition include:

• Scope: The hazing can occur on or off campus; its location does not diminish legal accountability.
• Harm: It covers both mental and physical health or safety-related harm.
• Intent Requirement: While direct malicious intent is not always necessary, an act becomes hazing if it’s done intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly—meaning the individual was aware of a substantial risk and disregarded it.
• “Consent” is not a defense: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that a student’s “agreement” or “consent” to the hazing activity is not a defense against prosecution for hazing. This is a critical protection for students under duress.

Texas law also includes criminal penalties for hazing (Texas Education Code § 37.152):

• Hazing is typically a Class B Misdemeanor.
• It escalates to a Class A Misdemeanor if the act causes bodily injury.
• Hazing that leads to serious bodily injury or death becomes a State Jail Felony.

Additionally, Texas law offers reporter protections (Texas Education Code § 37.154), granting immunity from civil or criminal liability to individuals who report hazing incidents in good faith. This provision encourages students and witnesses to come forward without fear of legal repercussions, although the fear of social retribution can still be a powerful deterrent. Organizations can also face criminal prosecution and substantial fines under Texas Education Code § 37.153 if they authorized or encouraged hazing, or if an officer knew about it and failed to report.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It’s important for City of Katy families to understand the distinction between criminal and civil actions in hazing cases:

• Criminal Cases: These are brought by the state (a prosecutor) against individuals or organizations accused of violating hazing laws. The aim is to punish the perpetrator through fines, jail time, or probation. Hazing-related criminal charges often include direct hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, and even manslaughter in fatal incidents.
• Civil Cases: These are brought by victims or their surviving families, like those in City of Katy, aiming to secure monetary compensation for the harm suffered and to hold responsible parties accountable. Civil lawsuits focus on concepts like negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring or supervision, and premises liability. Financial recovery compensates for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

A crucial point is that both criminal and civil cases can proceed simultaneously, and a criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for pursuing a civil lawsuit.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also impact how universities respond to hazing:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal funds must:
  • Increase transparency by publicly reporting hazing incidents.
  • Strengthen education and prevention programs.
  • Maintain and publish comprehensive data on hazing incidents (with full compliance expected by late 2026).
• Title IX / Clery Act: If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, federal Title IX obligations are triggered, requiring universities to investigate and address such misconduct. The Clery Act requires campuses to disclose crime statistics, and hazing incidents often overlap with these reportable categories, particularly when assaults, alcohol-related offenses, or drug violations occur.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining who is legally responsible in a hazing lawsuit involves identifying all parties whose actions or inactions contributed to the harm. Potential defendants in City of Katy hazing cases could include:

• Individual Students: Those who actively planned, carried out, supplied prohibited substances, or participated in the hazing acts, or who attempted to cover them up.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or student organization itself, especially if it operates as a recognized legal entity. Officers or “pledge educators” who orchestrated or permitted the hazing are often central figures.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The larger national organization that governs the local chapter typically sets policies, collects dues, and supervises chapters. Liability against a national entity often hinges on what it knew or should have known about similar hazing patterns, its failure to enforce its own policies, or its negligent supervision.
• University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself, or its governing board (like the UH System Board of Regents or the Texas A&M System Board of Regents), may be liable. This can be based on theories of negligence, gross negligence, or a failure to uphold Title IX obligations. Key factors include the university’s prior knowledge of hazing, its enforcement of policies, and whether it showed “deliberate indifference” to student safety. Public universities, like UH, Texas A&M, and UT, may invoke something called “sovereign immunity” in some situations, but there are exceptions, particularly for gross negligence or when individual employees are sued personally rather than in their official capacity. Private universities, such as SMU and Baylor, generally have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: This can include landlords or property owners of off-campus houses or event spaces, bars or alcohol vendors (under “dram shop” laws if they served obviously intoxicated individuals or minors), and even security companies or event organizers.

Every case arising from City of Katy and beyond is unique, and liability is determined by specific facts and how they align with existing laws and precedents.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

When a hazing tragedy strikes a City of Katy family, it can feel isolated and unique. However, past national cases reveal disturbing patterns—scripts that unfold repeatedly across different universities, states, and organizations. These anchor stories demonstrate the severe consequences of hazing and underscore why institutions have a clear legal duty to prevent it. They show foreseeability: that these organizations knew or should have known the risks involved.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption is consistently one of the deadliest forms of hazing, leading to multiple tragic deaths nationwide.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In one of the most widely publicized cases, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after an extreme “bid acceptance” event at Beta Theta Pi. He consumed dangerous amounts of alcohol, fell multiple times, and was left unattended for hours despite clear signs of injury, as captured on the fraternity’s security cameras. His brothers delayed calling for medical help, ultimately leading to his death from traumatic brain injuries. This incident resulted in dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the creation of Pennsylvania’s stringent anti-hazing law, the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. This case demonstrates how a culture of silence, extreme intoxication, and a delay in calling 911 can be legally devastating for both individuals and organizations.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old FSU pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to consume them quickly. This tragedy led to criminal hazing charges against multiple fraternity members and prompted Florida State University to temporarily suspend all Greek life, leading to significant policy overhauls. This case highlights how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster, tragically impacting families in regions like City of Katy who might send their children to any university.

• Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017): 18-year-old Max Gruver died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495% after participating in a hazing ritual dubbed “Bible study.” Pledges were forced to drink whenever they answered questions incorrectly. His death directly led to the enactment of Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing law. This case illustrates how public outrage and clear proof of hazing often drive significant legislative change, setting new precedents for accountability.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): During a “Big/Little” pledge night, 20-year-old Stone Foltz was forced to drink nearly an entire bottle of whiskey. He subsequently died from alcohol poisoning. This incident resulted in multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members. In 2023, Foltz’s family reached a $10 million settlement ($7 million from the Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and approximately $3 million from Bowling Green State University). This case underscored that universities, even public ones, can face significant financial and reputational consequences, alongside Greek organizations, for failing to prevent hazing.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physically brutal and ritualized hazing continues to cause severe injury and death.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old pledge, died after participating in a violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual during a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. Members repeatedly tackled him while he was heavily weighted, causing a fatal traumatic brain injury. Those involved delayed calling 911. Multiple members were convicted, and the national fraternity was criminally convicted and banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years. This case tragically demonstrated that off-campus “retreats” can be just as dangerous as or even worse than on-campus parties, and that national organizations can face severe criminal and civil sanctions for their chapters’ actions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it infiltrates other high-profile student organizations, including athletic teams.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): A major scandal erupted when former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the prestigious Northwestern football program over multiple years. These shocking allegations led to multiple lawsuits against the university and its coaching staff, the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit confidentially), and significant reputational damage. This case clearly shows that hazing can extend beyond Greek life into major athletic programs, raising critical questions about institutional oversight at the highest levels.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies, while not occurring in Texas, establish critical precedents and illuminate the legal pathways for families in City of Katy and across our state. They illustrate common threads: forced drinking, extreme humiliation, physical violence, delayed or denied medical care, and concerted cover-up efforts. These cases demonstrate that significant legal and legislative reforms often follow only after immense tragedy and determined litigation. For Texas families facing hazing at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, these national lessons validate their concerns and provide a foundation for asserting their rights. The patterns of institutional failure and organizational negligence seen elsewhere are highly relevant when building a case here in Texas.

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

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, serves families throughout Texas, including those in City of Katy, Houston, and the greater Harris and Fort Bend counties. Our commitment extends to securing justice for students hazed at any Texas university, including our state’s largest and most prestigious institutions. While City of Katy is situated in the broader Greater Houston area, with many local students attending the University of Houston, we recognize that families from our community send their children to universities across the state. This section focuses on the hazing landscape at five major Texas universities, providing City of Katy families with critical insights tailored to each institution.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant urban campus within our very own Harris County, sits just a drive away for many City of Katy families. UH boasts a diverse student body and an active Greek life scene, with numerous fraternities and sororities, alongside a wide array of other student organizations, cultural groups, and sports clubs. Many students from City of Katy choose UH for its proximity and strong academic programs.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH has a dynamic campus environment, blending a rich array of academic programs with a lively student culture. Its Greek life, comprising Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) organizations, is a significant part of campus social life. The university’s rapid growth and increasing residential population mean more students are deeply integrated into campus activities, raising the stakes for student safety.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict, zero-tolerance hazing policy that prohibits any act related to a student’s initiation, admission, affiliation, or continued membership in an organization that endangers physical or mental health, whether on or off campus (UH System Administrative Memorandum 03.D.02). This includes forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and acts causing mental distress. UH provides several reporting channels for students and families, including the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). They also encourage anonymous reporting through their website.

5.1.3 Example Incident & Response

A notable incident involving Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) in 2016 illustrated the serious risks students face. Pledges were allegedly subjected to significant sleep, food, and water deprivation during a multi-day hazing event. The hazing culminated in a tragic injury where one student suffered a lacerated spleen after reportedly being slammed against a table or similar surface. The local chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges, and the university implemented sanctions, including suspension. Subsequent disciplinary references at UH have highlighted other fraternities and sororities engaged in behaviors “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” typically involving alcohol misuse and policy violations, leading to suspensions or probation. This history demonstrates UH’s commitment to addressing hazing through disciplinary actions, but also reveals the ongoing challenges in eradicating these behaviors.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Katy families, understanding how a hazing case at UH might proceed is crucial. Depending on the nature and location of the incident, involved agencies could include the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) for on-campus incidents, and/or the Houston Police Department (HPD) for off-campus events within city limits, often in the Third Ward or surrounding areas. Civil lawsuits stemming from UH hazing incidents would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County, such as the Harris County District Courts.

Potential defendants in a civil suit could include the individual students directly involved, the local chapter itself, the national fraternity or sorority organization, and potentially the University of Houston System and property owners (if the incident occurred off-campus at a rented house). Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña regularly handle complex litigation in Houston and Harris County courts, giving our firm an intimate understanding of the local judicial landscape.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For City of Katy students attending UH and their families, proactive steps are vital:

• Familiarize Yourself: Understand UH’s specific hazing policy and reporting channels listed on their official website (e.g., the Dean of Students office, UHPD, or online reporting forms).
• Document Everything: If you suspect hazing, document all details—dates, times, locations, individuals involved, and specific acts. Screenshot group chats immediately.
• Prioritize Safety: If there’s immediate danger or injury, call 911 first.
• Consider Legal Council: Talking to a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases early on can help you navigate university bureaucracy, uncover prior institutional discipline, and protect your child’s legal rights. We can help preserve evidence before it disappears.
• Confidential Consultation: Contact us for a confidential review of your situation. We understand the local context and the unique challenges faced by UH students and their families.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, a storied institution in College Station well-known for its deep traditions and strong alumni network, attracts many students from City of Katy and surrounding areas seeking its unique culture. While rooted in tradition, A&M has faced its share of hazing allegations, particularly within its prolific Greek life and the renowned Corps of Cadets.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M’s identity is synonymous with tradition, epitomized by its Corps of Cadets – a military-style training program that fosters discipline and camaraderie. Its Greek system is also extensive, with active IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and Multicultural Greek Council chapters. For many, the sense of belonging at A&M is profound, yet this close-knit culture can sometimes mask or enable covert hazing practices, particularly under the guise of “tradition.” The Bryan-College Station metropolitan area, encompassing both cities, creates a localized environment where campus issues often spill into the broader community.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M strictly prohibits hazing, articulating in its Student Rule 25 that hazing is a violation of state law and university policy. This policy covers acts on or off campus, and includes any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers mental or physical health for initiation or affiliation purposes. Reporting channels include the Dean of Student Life, the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD), and confidential reporting options available online. The university stresses its commitment to investigating all reports and imposing appropriate sanctions.

5.2.3 Example Incidents & Responses

Concerns about hazing at Texas A&M have frequently arisen from both its Greek organizations and the Corps of Cadets:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (Around 2021): This incident highlighted severe physical hazing when two pledges alleged they were subjected to strenuous physical activity and then had substances, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns that required skin graft surgeries. The pledges filed a $1 million lawsuit against the fraternity. While the details of the settlement remain non-public, the chapter was suspended for two years by the university.
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a federal lawsuit alleging a pattern of degrading hazing within the Corps, including forced strenuous exercise, verbal abuse, and simulated sexual acts. One particularly egregious allegation involved being stripped, tied between two beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, drawing national attention to hazing within military-style organizations. Texas A&M responded by stating that it addressed the matter through its internal processes and that hazing is not tolerated.

These cases spotlight that hazing at A&M isn’t limited to Greek life and can permeate highly traditional student organizations as well.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Katy families, a hazing case originating at Texas A&M would involve investigations by TAMUPD for on-campus incidents or the College Station Police Department for off-campus events. Civil suits bringing claims against Texas A&M, its associated organizations, or individuals would typically be filed in the local Brazos County District Courts or federal courts with jurisdiction over the region. Our firm has extensive experience navigating complex cases in Texas, including those against large public institutions.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Families who send students from City of Katy to Texas A&M should be particularly vigilant:

• Cultural Awareness: Be aware of the strong emphasis on tradition, especially in organizations like the Corps, and understand that some “traditions” may mask hazing.
• Direct Communication: Maintain open, non-judgmental dialogue with your student about their experiences.
• Utilize Reporting: Familiarize yourself with Texas A&M’s reporting mechanisms, including the Dean of Student Life and campus police.
• Seek Legal Advice Promptly: Due to the complexities surrounding public university liability and the potential for a strong “tradition” defense, prompt legal evaluation by a Texas hazing attorney is crucial.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution and academic powerhouse, draws students from City of Katy and throughout Texas. While celebrated for its academic rigor and vibrant campus life, UT Austin has garnered attention for its proactive stance on hazing transparency, even as incidents continue to occur.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin boasts a sprawling campus, a highly competitive Greek system (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and specialized councils like the Texas Asian Pan-Hellenic Council), and a multitude of spirit, athletic, and academic groups. The university’s location in the diverse and dynamic city of Austin contributes to a lively social scene, but also means hazing incidents can easily move off-campus, particularly to West Campus housing and fraternity rows. Austin’s unique culture and the university’s large size present distinct challenges and opportunities for addressing hazing.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UT Austin maintains a comprehensive anti-hazing policy aligned with Texas law, forbidding any act that endangers a student’s mental or physical health for membership or initiation. UT distinguishes itself by maintaining a highly detailed and publicly accessible Hazing Violations page on its website (hazing.utexas.edu). This page lists sanctioned organizations, the nature of their violations, and the disciplinary actions taken. This level of transparency provides invaluable information to City of Katy families and legal professionals alike. Reporting is managed through the Dean of Students, Student Conduct and Academic Integrity, and the UT Austin Police Department (UTPD).

5.3.3 Example Incidents & Responses

UT’s public hazing log reveals continuous vigilance and a pattern of repeated offenses across various groups:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike), UT Chapter (2023): This chapter faced sanctions after new members were directed to consume excessive amounts of milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, actions found to constitute hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and mandated to implement new hazing-prevention education, illustrating ongoing issues even within organizations with national hazing histories.
• Texas Wranglers and Other Spirit/Tradition Organizations: UT’s log frequently includes sanctions against other prominent spirit and tradition groups not affiliated with Greek life. Violations often include forced physical activities (“workouts”), alcohol-related hazing, degradation, and other punishment-based practices for new members.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE), UT Chapter (January 2024): An Australian exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members at a party, suffering severe injuries including a dislocated leg, fractured tibia, and broken nose. The student filed a lawsuit for over $1 million against the chapter, which was already under suspension for prior violations.

These public records are a powerful tool; they not only demonstrate the university’s commitment to transparency (albeit driven by repeated incidents) but also provide crucial evidence of prior knowledge and patterns of behavior that can strengthen civil litigation outcomes.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Katy families, hazing cases at UT Austin may involve investigations by UTPD or the Austin Police Department (APD), depending on the incident’s location. Civil claims would proceed primarily in the Travis County District Courts or federal courts in the Western District of Texas. The Manginello Law Firm has an Austin office and deep experience in Travis County where we can navigate the local legal landscape efficiently. The university’s public hazing log is a vital resource here, offering clear documentation that can support allegations of an organization’s prior misconduct and the university’s knowledge of such patterns.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

Families from City of Katy with students at UT Austin should:

• Check the Hazing Log: Regularly consult the UT Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu) to be informed about the disciplinary history of organizations of interest. This is a powerful research tool.
• Utilize Public Records: Understand that the existence of public incident reports can significantly bolster civil cases by demonstrating a pattern of behavior and the university’s awareness.
• Focus on Documentation: Given UT’s transparent approach, ensuring your own documentation—photos, texts, medical reports—is even more crucial to complement the publicly available records.
• Consider Legal Actions: If your child has been harmed, contact a Texas hazing attorney immediately. Our firm’s Austin presence means we are familiar with local courts and university processes, offering a critical advantage for City of Katy families.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, nestled in Dallas, is a distinguished private institution with a strong academic reputation and a vibrant, affluent campus culture. It’s a popular choice for many Texas students, including those from City of Katy and the surrounding Greater Houston area. SMU’s Greek life is a prominent feature of its social landscape, but, like other universities, it has faced its share of hazing challenges.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is known for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and a social scene heavily influenced by its extensive Greek system (Panhellenic, IFC, NPHC, and Multicultural Greek Council chapters). The relatively affluent demographic of its student body can, at times, foster a sense of entitlement or a belief in immunity, potentially contributing to a climate where hazing persists. As a private university, SMU exercises considerable control over campus life and disciplinary matters, which can differentiate how hazing incidents are investigated and communicated compared to public institutions.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains clear anti-hazing policies, explicitly mirroring Texas state law in its Student Code of Conduct. It defines hazing broadly to include any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers the mental or physical health of a student for initiation or affiliation purposes, whether on or off campus. SMU offers reporting channels through the Dean of Students, the Office of Student Conduct, and the SMU Police Department. The university also utilizes anonymous reporting systems, such as the Real Response app, encouraging students to report misconduct, including hazing, without fear of direct confrontation.

5.4.3 Example Incidents & Responses

Like many universities, SMU has grappled with significant hazing incidents:

• Kappa Alpha Order (KA) Incident (2017): This high-profile incident involved allegations of new members being subjected to physical hazing, including paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation. Following an investigation, the Kappa Alpha Order chapter faced severe university sanctions, including a suspension that impacted its ability to recruit new members for several years, with restrictions continuing until around 2021. This case highlights how serious hazing allegations are addressed within SMU’s disciplinary framework.
• SMU has also seen other fraternities and sororities placed on probation or suspended for various policy violations, including hazing, demonstrating ongoing challenges despite explicit policies. As a private institution, the public availability of detailed disciplinary records can sometimes be less comprehensive than at public universities like UT Austin, though civil litigation can compel the release of such internal records through discovery.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Katy families, a hazing case at SMU would typically involve investigations by the SMU Police Department for on-campus incidents, or the Dallas Police Department for off-campus events within Dallas. Civil lawsuits against SMU or its associated organizations would be filed in the Dallas County District Courts or federal courts with jurisdiction over Dallas. As a private university, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially more directly liable in comparison to public institutions. Our firm’s Austin office provides ready access to courts across Texas, including those in Dallas, enabling us to effectively represent families from City of Katy.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

City of Katy families with students at SMU should:

• Understand Private University Dynamics: Be aware that while SMU has strong policies, the transparency regarding past incidents may not always match that of public institutions.
• Utilize Anonymous Reporting: Encourage students to use SMU’s anonymous reporting options like Real Response if they fear direct reprisal.
• Focus on Personal Documentation: Given potentially limited public records, maintaining thorough personal documentation (texts, photos, medical records) is critically important.
• Seek Experienced Counsel: Consult with a Texas hazing attorney who understands how to pursue claims against private universities and litigate in Dallas County, where we have significant experience.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a prominent private Christian university in Waco, holds a unique position in Texas higher education. While drawing students from City of Katy due to its reputation and close-knit community, Baylor has faced intense scrutiny in recent years regarding institutional oversight, especially concerning Title IX violations, which provides a challenging backdrop for any hazing incidents on campus.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor’s distinct culture is deeply influenced by its Christian mission and values, aiming to integrate faith and learning. The university fosters a strong sense of community, which includes a vibrant Greek life (Panhellenic, IFC, NPHC, and Multicultural Greek Council chapters), various athletic programs, and numerous student organizations. This close-knit environment, while often positive, can also create unique pressures for conformity and secrecy around activities, including hazing, that are inconsistent with the university’s stated values. Waco, a city in Central Texas, often reflects the university’s presence.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University unequivocally prohibits hazing, defining it as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, that endangers the mental or physical health of a student for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. Baylor’s policies are particularly robust due to past institutional challenges and its commitment to student welfare. Students and families can report hazing via the Department of Student Conduct, the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD), or through anonymous reporting links on the university’s website. Baylor emphasizes a “zero-tolerance” approach, particularly in light of its history of addressing institutional misconduct.

5.4.3 Example Incidents & Responses

Baylor’s history of scrutiny over institutional oversight, particularly on issues of campus safety and misconduct, provides a critical context for any hazing allegations:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): An internal investigation into hazing allegations within the Baylor baseball program led to the suspension of 14 players. The suspensions were staggered through the early part of the season, indicating a patterned issue that the university ultimately addressed through disciplinary action. While the specific nature of the hazing was not fully detailed publicly, this incident demonstrated Baylor’s willingness to take strong disciplinary measures.
• Baylor has also experienced sanctions against Greek organizations for various policy violations, including hazing, reflecting ongoing challenges that exist even within a highly monitored and values-driven environment. The university’s strong public stance against misconduct means that hazing incidents are typically met with swift internal investigations and disciplinary actions.

5.4.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Katy families, a hazing case at Baylor would involve investigations by BUPD for on-campus incidents, or the Waco Police Department for off-campus events. Civil claims against Baylor or its affiliated organizations would typically be filed in the McLennan County District Courts or federal courts in the Western District of Texas. As a private university, Baylor is not shielded by sovereign immunity, which can simplify some aspects of litigation compared to public universities. Our firm is equipped to handle cases across Texas, including those in Central Texas, ensuring effective representation for City of Katy families regardless of the campus’s location.

5.4.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

Families from City of Katy with students at Baylor should:

• Be Aware of Baylor’s Context: Understand that Baylor operates under intense scrutiny and has a strong focus on student conduct, meaning hazing is likely to be met with severe internal penalties.
• Emphasize University Resources: Encourage students to utilize Baylor’s official reporting channels, which are designed to be responsive due to the university’s history.
• Thorough Documentation: Maintain impeccable records of any hazing incidents, as strong evidence is crucial when challenging any institutional defense.
• Consult Legal Expertise: Given Baylor’s unique institutional history and its private status, consulting with an experienced Texas hazing attorney is essential to navigate the nuances of a potential case.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

For City of Katy families, it’s vital to recognize that the local fraternity or sorority chapter their child joins—whether at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor—is almost certainly part of a much larger national organization. These national entities, often with decades or even centuries of history, carry with them a legacy that directly impacts what happens at a local level. Tragically, this legacy often includes well-documented patterns of hazing, severe injuries, and wrongful deaths.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

The anti-hazing policies found in national fraternity and sorority manuals aren’t arbitrary rules; they are often the direct result of past tragedies. These organizations have paid multi-million dollar settlements and faced permanent chapter closures because specific hazing practices led to death or catastrophic injury elsewhere. They know the patterns: the forced drinking nights, the paddling traditions, the humiliating rituals, and the inherent dangers.

When a chapter in Houston, College Station, Austin, Dallas, or Waco repeats the same “traditions” that got another chapter of the same national organization shut down or sued in another state, this creates a powerful legal argument for foreseeability. It means the national body knew or should have known the dangers of such acts but failed to intervene effectively. This is a cornerstone for demonstrating negligence or even arguing for punitive damages against national entities.

6.2 Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

Many of the fraternities and sororities active at Texas universities have national counterparts with significant hazing histories. Here, we outline some prominent organizations and their national hazing patterns, demonstrating why a local incident is rarely an isolated event. This information is derived from verified incident databases and public records up to late 2025.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU, Pi Kappa Alpha has a national history tragically marked by alcohol-related hazing.

  • Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University, 2021): 20-year-old pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” night. This case resulted in criminal convictions and a $10 million settlement, with $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national.
  • David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois University, 2012): Pledge died from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event, leading to a $14 million settlement for the family.
  • UT Chapter (2023): Was sanctioned for hazing involving forced milk consumption and strenuous calisthenics, showcasing continuity of dangerous behavior.

• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU, Beta Theta Pi is tragically linked to one of the most high-profile hazing deaths.

  • Timothy Piazza (Penn State University, 2017): 19-year-old pledge died from severe brain injuries after a brutal “bid acceptance” event involving excessive alcohol. Fraternal brothers delayed calling for help for agonizing hours. This case led to the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania and massive legal fallout.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Found at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU, Phi Delta Theta was involved in a landmark case.

  • Maxwell “Max” Gruver (Louisiana State University, 2017): Died from acute alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%) after being forced to participate in a “Bible study” drinking game. His death prompted Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, and UT, Pi Kappa Phi has faced similar issues.

  • Andrew Coffey (Florida State University, 2017): Died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event where pledges were given large amounts of hard liquor.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): With chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU, SAE has one of the most troubled hazing histories nationally.

  • Multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide have been tied to SAE.
  • University of Alabama (2023): A lawsuit was filed alleging a pledge suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual.
  • Texas A&M University (2021): Lawsuit filed for $1 million alleging pledges suffered severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries after being doused with industrial cleaner and other substances.
  • University of Texas at Austin (January 2024): A lawsuit for over $1 million was filed by an exchange student alleging assault at a party, resulting in a dislocated leg, broken nose, and other injuries. The chapter was already suspended.
  • Carson Starkey (Cal Poly, 2008): Died from alcohol poisoning during a hazing ritual; his family’s subsequent efforts led SAE to announce the elimination of its traditional pledge process nationwide in 2014.

• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI): While not listed at all five Texas universities, their national context is crucial.

  • Danny Santulli (University of Missouri, 2021): Suffered severe, permanent brain damage after being forced to consume excessive alcohol during a “pledge dad reveal” night. His family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants, including the fraternity, in multi-million dollar confidential settlements.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Found at UH, Texas A&M, and Baylor.

  • Chad Meredith (University of Miami, 2001): Drowned after being pressured by fraternity members to swim across a lake while intoxicated, leading to a $12.6 million jury verdict for his parents and Florida’s law naming hazing a criminal offense.
  • Texas A&M University (2023): Allegations of hazing resulting in severe injuries, including rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown from extreme physical activity), are currently in litigation.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, and Baylor.

  • College of Charleston (2024): A pledge alleged physical beatings, forced consumption of drugs/alcohol, and psychological torment, resulting in a $10 million-plus settlement for the family, demonstrating the substantial damages awarded for severe hazing.

Even organizations like Kappa Kappa Gamma (ΚΚΓ), a sorority present at Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, have faced hazing allegations nationally (e.g., DePauw University’s 1997 incident involving branding with cigarettes), reminding City of Katy families that hazing is not exclusive to fraternities.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

These detailed national histories are not mere anecdotes. They are irrefutable evidence that certain organizations possess actual knowledge of hazing’s dangers and the specific methods employed by their chapters. When a local chapter in City of Katy, Houston, or anywhere else in Texas engages in similar conduct, it becomes far more difficult for the national organization to credibly claim ignorance or that it was an “unforeseeable accident.”

In civil litigation, this pattern evidence allows our firm to:

• Demonstrate Foreseeability: Argue that the national organization knew or should have known its policies were ineffective or that its chapters had a propensity for certain types of hazing.
• Challenge “Rogue Chapter” Defenses: Counter claims that the incident was the work of “a few bad apples” acting contrary to national policy.
• Navigate Insurance Coverage: Use this pattern to argue that the national’s negligence should be covered by insurance, even if intentional hazing acts are excluded.
• Support Punitive Damages: In egregious cases, strong pattern evidence can support arguments for punitive damages, which are designed not just to compensate the victim but to punish the defendant and deter others.

For City of Katy families, understanding this link between local occurrences and national historical patterns is crucial. It means your child’s case isn’t just about a single incident; it’s about holding powerful institutions accountable for systemic failures to protect young lives.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

For City of Katy families facing the aftermath of a hazing incident, the idea of “building a case” might seem daunting. However, at The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, we specialize in meticulously investigating these complex situations. Our goal is to gather undeniable evidence, quantify the full scope of your family’s damages, and implement a strategic legal approach designed for accountability.

7.1 Evidence

In hazing cases, evidence is everything. It can disappear quickly, which is why immediate action is critical. Our firm focuses on collecting and preserving every piece of available information:

• Digital Communications: These are often the most crucial pieces of evidence in modern hazing cases. This includes messages from GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, and any private fraternity/sorority apps. This also extends to Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages (even those that “disappear”), and TikTok comments. These communications reveal planning, intent, knowledge, and patterns of behavior. Our team works to preserve live content and, if necessary, collaborates with digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages and data. Learn how to better document your case with your cell phone by watching our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs.
• Photos & Videos: Any content recorded by members during hazing events, footage shared in group chats, or posts on social media can be invaluable. Security camera footage or Ring/doorbell camera recordings from off-campus houses or event venues can also provide critical context.
• Internal Organization Documents: These include pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” lists, and any printed or digital materials that outline new member activities. Emails and texts from officers or older members discussing “what we’ll do to pledges” can reveal intent. We also seek national organization policies and training materials to compare with actual conduct.
• University Records: Through subpoena and public records requests, we can uncover prior conduct files, records of probation or suspension for the organization, warning letters, incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices, and Clery Act reports that might reflect past violations.
• Medical and Psychological Records: Comprehensive documentation of injuries is paramount. This includes emergency room reports, ambulance records, hospitalization notes, surgical reports, physical therapy records, and medication lists. Toxicology reports can confirm substance use. Crucially, psychological evaluations for PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidality help document the profound emotional and mental health impacts of hazing.
• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are vital. This includes testimony from other pledges, current or former members, roommates, Resident Advisors (RAs), coaches, trainers, or any bystanders who observed or were aware of the hazing. Former members who quit or were expelled, especially due to hazing practices, are often key witnesses.

7.2 Damages

When hazing results in injury or death, the law aims to provide monetary compensation for the full range of harm suffered. For City of Katy families, understanding what can be recovered is crucial for planning the future.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This category covers all expenses related to the physical injuries: immediate emergency room and ICU costs, surgeries, ongoing treatments, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and prescription medications. For catastrophic injuries like brain damage or organ damage, it also includes the costs of long-term care and necessary professional services over a lifetime.
• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This includes any lost wages if the student (or a parent caring for them) had to miss work. Critically, it covers the financial impact of missed semesters, delayed graduation, lost scholarships, and reduced earning capacity if permanent injuries hinder future career prospects.
• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for subjective but very real suffering: physical pain and ongoing suffering, severe emotional distress, trauma, humiliation, and the profound loss of enjoyment of life (e.g., inability to participate in sports or hobbies, damaged relationships). For many, the psychological scars are as deep, or deeper, than the physical ones.
• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): If hazing leads to a student’s death, surviving family members (parents, children, spouse) can pursue a wrongful death claim. This includes compensation for funeral and burial costs, the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and profound non-economic losses such as the loss of companionship, love, guidance, and the grief and emotional suffering endured by the family. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic cases.
• Punitive Damages: In cases involving particularly reckless, willful, or malicious conduct, Texas law may allow for punitive damages. These are not meant to compensate the victim but to punish the defendants for their egregious actions and deter similar conduct in the future.

We focus on detailing these types of damages, not promising specific dollar amounts. Every case is evaluated on its own merits, and our goal is always to maximize recovery for our clients.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing cases often involve multiple, well-resourced defendants, each represented by experienced attorneys and backed by substantial insurance policies. National fraternities, sororities, and universities almost always carry liability insurance. However, their insurers frequently attempt to deny coverage based on policy exclusions such as “intentional acts” or “criminal conduct.”

This is where The Manginello Law Firm’s distinct expertise, particularly Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), becomes invaluable. We know how these insurers operate their delay tactics, their coverage exclusion arguments, and how they attempt to undervalue claims. Our firm:

• Identifies all potential sources of insurance coverage, from individual members’ homeowner policies to national organization and university umbrella policies.
• Navigates complex disputes regarding exclusions, arguing that even if the hazing was intentional, the organization’s negligent supervision or failure to prevent it should be covered.
• Forces insurers to honor their duty to defend and indemnify, ensuring that funds are available for a fair settlement or judgment.

Our firm’s experience in complex litigation against massive corporations (akin to Ralph Manginello’s involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation) means we are well-equipped to take on powerful institutions and their legal teams. We understand the strategy required to cut through legal defensive maneuvers and ensure our clients’ claims are taken seriously.

Practical Guides & FAQs

When hazing impacts a family in City of Katy, actionable information and clear guidance are paramount. This section offers practical advice for parents, students, and witnesses, as well as answers to commonly asked questions.

8.1 For Parents

For concerned parents in City of Katy, recognizing the signs of hazing and knowing how to respond are critical first steps.

• Warning Signs of Hazing:

  • Physical: Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or repeated “accidents” with inconsistent explanations. Extreme fatigue, sudden weight loss/gain, or sleep deprivation.
  • Behavioral/Emotional: Uncharacteristic secrecy about club activities, withdrawal from family or old friends, drastic mood changes (anxiety, depression, irritability), or fear of “getting in trouble” with the group.
  • Academic: Sudden drop in grades, missing classes, or neglecting assignments due to “mandatory” group activities.
  • Financial: Unexpected large expenses, vague requests for money, or buying excessive items for older members.
  • Digital: Constant phone use and anxiety with notifications, obsessive deletion of messages, or indications of shared location tracking.

• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation with empathy, not judgment. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going?” or “Is there anything the group asks you to do that makes you uncomfortable?” Reassure them that their safety and well-being are your top priorities, and you will support them no matter what.

• If Your Child is Hurt: Prioritize medical care immediately. Document everything: take clear photos of injuries, note what your child tells you (dates, times, names, locations), and gather any physical evidence.

• Dealing with the University: Document all communications with university administrators. Inquire about any prior incidents involving the same organization and the university’s response. Be aware that universities have an interest in managing their public image; your child’s safety should always come first.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you suspect the university or organization is minimizing or concealing the truth, it’s time to consult with an experienced hazing attorney.

8.2 For Students / Pledges

For students in City of Katy who are experiencing or witnessing hazing, understanding your rights and options can be truly empowering.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself: Am I being coerced or pressured? Would I do this if I had a genuine choice without negative consequences? Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal? If the answer is yes to any of these, it is hazing. If the activity is hidden from the public or administrators, it’s very likely hazing.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a legal defense to hazing charges. The law recognizes that true consent is impossible under conditions of peer pressure, power imbalances, and the fear of social exclusion that often define new member processes.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time. If you feel unsafe, get to a secure location and immediately contact a trusted adult (parent, RA, academic advisor) or the authorities. Many schools and Texas law offer amnesty for medical emergencies, encouraging students to call for help even if they were drinking underage. You can also report privately or anonymously through campus channels or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293).
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: If you report hazing in good faith, Texas law provides immunity from civil or criminal liability related to that report. This protection is designed to encourage reporting without fear of getting into trouble yourself.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were once involved in hazing, either as a participant or a witness, you might carry guilt or fear. However, your perspective is crucial for preventing future harm and holding those responsible accountable.

• Your testimony and evidence can make a profound difference, potentially saving lives.
• While you may face your own legal complexities, cooperating with authorities or a victim’s legal team is a vital step toward accountability.
• An attorney can advise you on your rights and responsibilities as a witness, and how to navigate potential exposure while providing truthful testimony.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For City of Katy families, understanding common missteps can be as important as knowing what to do. Avoiding these mistakes is crucial for preserving your legal options:

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

   • What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This can appear to be a cover-up, may constitute obstruction of justice, and makes prosecuting a case nearly impossible.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even content that might seem embarrassing. Our video on using your phone to document a legal case (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains modern evidence preservation.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This immediately prompts them to lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses.
   • What to do instead: Document everything discreetly, then call a lawyer before any direct confrontation.

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

   • What universities do: They may discreetly pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit, and early settlements are often far below the true value of the case.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or insurance company without an attorney reviewing it first.

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

   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys actively monitor social media, and any inconsistencies can be used to damage credibility. It can also waive legal privileges.
   • What to do instead: Document privately and let your lawyer control any public messaging strategy.

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

   • What organizations say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic.”
   • Why it’s wrong: They often use these meetings to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can harm your legal position.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication with the organization should go through your lawyer.

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

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, the statute of limitations can run, and the university often prioritizes its own interests and public image.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW and consult a lawyer immediately. The university’s internal process is different from seeking legal accountability.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you, and early settlement offers are almost always lowball attempts.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline making any statement and inform them your attorney will contact them. Learn more about client mistakes that can ruin your injury case at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY.

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and UT Austin benefit from sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when individual employees are sued personally. Private universities such as SMU and Baylor have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific, so contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  Yes, it can be. While hazing is typically a Class B misdemeanor, it escalates to a state jail felony under Texas law if it causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals, including officers of the organization, can face charges for failing to report hazing or for engaging in criminal acts. Our criminal defense past (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) is helpful for these matters.

• “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 and the law recognize that “consent” given under duress, peer pressure, or fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, there is a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death for most personal injury and wrongful death cases in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause was not immediately apparent. In cases involving cover-ups or fraudulent concealment, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is absolutely critical—evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and organizations work to destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. Learn more about the statute of limitations at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities/sororities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge of the activities, and foreseeability of harm. Many significant hazing cases, including deaths and severe injuries, have occurred at off-campus houses or unofficial retreats, resulting in multi-million-dollar judgments against both individuals and national organizations.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  While we pursue public accountability, most hazing cases ultimately settle confidentially before trial. We can often negotiate for sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy and work to minimize public exposure while diligently pursuing justice.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in City of Katy faces the unthinkable—a hazing injury or death at a Texas university—you need more than just 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 dedicated to representing victims like your child with a unique blend of legal expertise, aggressive advocacy, and profound empathy.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases?

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including City of Katy, Houston, Barker, Fulshear, and the broader Harris and Fort Bend County areas. We understand that hazing at Texas universities profoundly affects families in City of Katy and across the region, regardless of which campus their children attend. Our firm brings unparalleled qualifications to hazing litigation:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our Associate Attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable experience as a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/). She understands exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies analyze, value (and undervalue), and defend hazing claims. She knows their tactics—their delay strategies, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement plays—because she used to run them. This insider perspective is a distinct advantage for our clients.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Our Managing Partner, Ralph P. Manginello, has a proven track record of taking on formidable defendants. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the historic BP Texas City explosion litigation, a case against a billion-dollar corporate giant. His federal court experience in the United States District Court, Southern District of Texas, means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their well-funded defense teams. We’ve taken on powerful corporations and won. Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials and case history are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• 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 economists to value the full loss of a life and the lifetime care needs for severe injuries like brain damage. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that compel full accountability, ensuring your family receives the compensation necessary for comprehensive recovery.

• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the prestigious Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a crucial understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual expertise means we can advise students, witnesses, and former members on both criminal exposure and civil liability in hazing cases.

• Investigative Depth: We pride ourselves on thorough investigation. Our network includes top experts in digital forensics, medical science, economics, and psychology. We know how to obtain hidden evidence, from deleted group chats and social media data to national fraternity records of prior incidents and university files that often reveal a pattern of warning signs. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it often does.

We intimately understand the inner workings of fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments. We know how to uncover vital evidence, even when organizations attempt to conceal it. Hazing cases are inherently complex due to powerful institutional defendants, intricate insurance coverage battles, and the delicate balance between victim privacy and public accountability. Our firm excels at navigating these challenges while always prioritizing our clients’ well-being.

Ultimately, we know 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. We pursue thorough investigation and real accountability, not just quick settlements. We don’t get paid unless we win your case; learn more about our contingency fees at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or another institution—we want to hear from you. Families in City of Katy 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 will listen to your story without judgment.
• We will review any evidence you have collected (photos, texts, medical records).
• We will explain your legal options: whether to pursue a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the legal process.
• We will answer your questions about costs – our contingency fee structure means we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; we encourage you to take the time you need to decide.
• Everything you tell us is strictly confidential.

Call Attorney911 today.

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

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

Whether you’re in City of Katy, Houston, 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