Hazing in Texas: A Definitive Guide for City of Nassau Bay Families

The late evening in City of Nassau Bay is often marked by quiet streets and the gentle breeze from Galveston Bay. For many families in our tight-knit community and across our neighboring areas in Harris County, it’s a time for reflection, planning for academic futures, or perhaps even a phone call from a college-aged child. But imagine a scenario far removed from this peaceful image:

Your child, a student from City of Nassau Bay now at a Texas university, is at an “initiation” event—perhaps at an off-campus fraternity house near the University of Houston, or during a “tradition” week in the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets, or at an unofficial gathering linked to a spirit organization near UT Austin. What starts as peer pressure escalates until they are being forced to consume excessive alcohol, endure degrading rituals, or perform strenuous physical tasks far beyond safe limits. Others are filming on phones, chanting, and laughing, creating a blur of dangerous energy. Someone gets hurt—perhaps your child falls, vomits violently, or collapses, but nobody calls 911 immediately because of the pervasive fear of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.” Your child feels trapped, torn between loyalty to the group they desperately want to join and their own safety, or even their very life.

This harrowing scenario is not a distant possibility; it is the stark reality faced by too many young people and their families across Texas. When your child leaves City of Nassau Bay for college, they carry with them the values you instilled, hoping to thrive and grow. But lurking beneath the surface of university life, often in the shadows of “tradition” and secrecy, is the dangerous practice of hazing.

This comprehensive guide is designed for City of Nassau Bay families and parents across Harris County, the Greater Houston area, and all of Texas who need to understand:

• What hazing truly looks like in 2025, stripping away outdated stereotypes.
• The intricacies of Texas and federal law pertaining to hazing.
• Crucial lessons from major national hazing cases and their direct relevance to Texas families.
• Documented incidents 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.
• The legal options and pathways to accountability available to victims and families in City of Nassau Bay and throughout the state.

While this article provides general information, it is not specific legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, is deeply committed to educating and empowering families, and we serve clients throughout Texas, including our neighbors here in City of Nassau Bay. We can evaluate individual hazing cases based on their unique facts and guide you toward justice.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

• Call 911 for medical emergencies without delay.
• Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We provide immediate guidance during crises—that’s why we are known as the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

In the first 48 hours, every action you take matters:

• Ensure your child receives medical attention immediately, even if they insist they are “fine.” Prioritize their health and safety above all else.
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot all group chats, text messages, and direct messages (DMs) immediately. Digital evidence is often the strongest proof of hazing.
  • Photograph any injuries from multiple angles, ensuring timestamps are captured.
  • Secure physical items such as damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or objects used in the hazing.
• Write down everything while the memory is fresh: who was involved, what happened, when and where it occurred.
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly. This can prompt them to destroy evidence or retaliate.
  • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without first consulting an attorney.
  • Post any details on public social media, as this can compromise your case.
  • Allow your child to delete messages, clean up evidence, or provide statements coached by others.

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears rapidly (deleted group chats, destroyed property, coached witnesses).
• Universities often move quickly to control the narrative and manage their institutional risks.
• We can help you preserve critical evidence and protect your child’s legal rights effectively.
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For City of Nassau Bay families, it’s easy to dismiss hazing as a relic of old movies—harmless pranks or minor discomforts. But the reality of hazing in the 21st century is far more insidious and dangerous. Today’s hazing is sophisticated, often hidden, and ruthlessly enforced, extending far beyond the traditional “frat boy” stereotypes.

Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to an individual joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group. This behavior endangers mental or physical health, humiliates, or exploits a person. Critically, saying “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal, especially when overwhelming peer pressure and power imbalances are at play.

Main Categories of Hazing

Modern hazing manifests in several complex forms:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is the most common and often deadliest form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking, such as chugging challenges, “lineups” where recruits drink continuously, or games designed for rapid, excessive alcohol consumption. Pledges may also be pressured to consume unknown substances or dangerous drug combinations. The goal is often to incapacitate and degrade, fostering vulnerability and complicity.

• Physical Hazing: Beyond the cliché of paddling, physical hazing includes extreme calisthenics, brutal “workouts,” or “smokings” that push individuals far past their physical limits into dangerous territory. Other tactics include sleep deprivation, food and water restriction, prolonged exposure to extreme cold or heat, or forced activities in unsafe environments. These can lead to rhabdomyolysis, organ failure, or other severe injuries.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are designed to degrade and strip individuals of their dignity. Examples include forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts or positions (like the “elephant walk” or “roasted pig”), degrading costumes, or acts with racist, homophobic, or sexist overtones including slurs or forced role-playing. These types of hazing cross the line into sexual assault and hate crimes.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but deeply damaging, psychological hazing involves sustained verbal abuse, threats, forced social isolation, and manipulative tactics. It can include forced confessions, public shaming on social media or in meetings, and intense psychological pressure designed to break down an individual’s self-esteem and foster absolute obedience to the group.

• Digital/Online Hazing: A newer but rapidly evolving frontier, digital hazing leverages technology to extend abuse beyond physical spaces. This includes group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, and others. It can also involve pressuring individuals to create or share compromising images or videos, or constantly monitoring their location and communications, creating a 24/7 environment of control and fear.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

The common misperception is that hazing is limited to large, mainstream fraternities. The reality is far broader:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes not only the larger Interfraternity Council (IFC) and Panhellenic Council (NPC) Greek organizations but also historically Black fraternities and sororities (NPHC), and multicultural Greek organizations (MGC).
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Highly structured environments, especially in institutions like Texas A&M, can foster traditions that sometimes blur the line into hazing, with emphasis on obedience and physical endurance.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs, and Student Organizations: Groups like “Texas Cowboys” at UT Austin or specific campus spirit organizations often have deeply entrenched “traditions” that, upon scrutiny, constitute hazing.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to swimming, cheerleading, and smaller club sports, hazing is a documented problem across collegiate athletics.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups can develop internal structures that permit or even encourage hazing rituals.
• Other Groups: Hazing can appear in academic honor societies, service organizations, professional fraternities, and cultural identity groups.

What keeps these dangerous practices alive, even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal and explicitly prohibited by universities? The potent combination of social status, tradition, and intense secrecy creates a powerful barrier, allowing groups to push boundaries to maintain perceived exclusivity and foster intense, often misguided, loyalty. This culture of silence makes it incredibly difficult for families from City of Nassau Bay and beyond to truly understand what their children are experiencing.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For City of Nassau Bay families, understanding the legal landscape of hazing in Texas is crucial. Our state has specific laws designed to address this harmful practice, alongside federal regulations that impact university accountability.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

In Texas, hazing is explicitly prohibited under the Texas Education Code. This law provides a broad definition that covers many forms of student misconduct. In plain terms, if someone makes you do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they intentionally or recklessly caused that harm, that’s hazing under Texas law.

Specifically, hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by a student (alone or with others) against another student, that:

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

Key aspects of Texas hazing law:

• Location doesn’t matter: Hazing can happen on or off campus, and the law still applies.
• Mental or physical harm: The harm doesn’t have to be physical; severe psychological and emotional abuse counts.
• Intent isn’t always required: You don’t have to prove malicious intent; acting “recklessly” (knowing the risk and doing it anyway) is sufficient.
• Consent is not a defense: As we will emphasize later, the law explicitly states that a victim’s “consent” to hazing is legally invalid. This directly rebuts the common defense that “they wanted to participate” or “everyone agreed to it.”

Criminal Penalties:

• Class B Misdemeanor (default): Applies to hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury. This can lead to penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes an injury requiring medical attention.
• State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This is a significant escalation of penalties, reflecting the severe consequences of such acts.
• Failure to report: Any student (or employee) who knows about planned hazing and fails to report it can also face misdemeanor charges.
• Retaliation: Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

Organizational Liability:
Under § 37.153 of the Texas Education Code, organizations (like fraternities, sororities, clubs, or teams) can also be held criminally responsible for hazing if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
• An officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it or stop it.
  Organizations found guilty can face fines of up to $10,000 per violation and can have their recognition revoked by the university. This means both individuals and the organization itself can face criminal consequences.

This is a summary; the actual Texas Education Code (Chapter 37, Subchapter F) goes into further detail, but the core principles define a clear framework for accountability.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It’s important for City of Nassau Bay families to understand the two distinct legal avenues that can arise from a hazing incident:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (through a prosecutor) and aim to punish individuals for breaking the law. In hazing incidents, prosecutors might bring charges for hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, or even manslaughter in cases involving severe injury or death. The outcome of a criminal case typically involves jail time, fines, or probation for the convicted individuals.

• Civil Cases: These are pursued by victims or their surviving families against those responsible for the harm. The primary goal is monetary compensation for the damages suffered and to hold negligent parties accountable. Civil lawsuits often focus on legal theories such as:

  • Negligence and Gross Negligence: Failure to exercise reasonable care, especially when there’s a heightened disregard for safety.
  • Wrongful Death: When hazing leads to a fatality, allowing families to seek compensation for their profound losses.
  • Negligent Hiring/Supervision: If universities or national organizations fail to properly vet or oversee their employees or chapters.
  • Premises Liability: When property owners (e.g., fraternity house owners) are negligent in maintaining a safe environment.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe psychological harm.

Crucially, a criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for filing a civil lawsuit. Many civil hazing cases succeed even when criminal charges are never filed or result in acquittals. The burden of proof is different, and the goals are distinct: punishment versus compensation and accountability.

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

Beyond state laws, federal regulations also play a role in university accountability:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal funding must:

  • Report hazing incidents and related disciplinary actions more transparently.
  • Strengthen hazing education and prevention programs.
  • Maintain a publicly accessible database of hazing data (expected to be phased in by 2026). This act aims to create greater transparency and prevention efforts nationwide, impacting all Texas universities.

• Title IX / Clery Act: These federal laws sometimes intersect with hazing incidents:

  • Title IX: If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, it can trigger Title IX obligations. Universities have a legal duty to investigate and address such misconduct promptly and thoroughly.
  • Clery Act: This law requires colleges to disclose campus crime statistics, including certain crimes that may overlap with hazing, such as assaults, alcohol-related offenses, and drug offenses. These reports can provide insight into patterns of misconduct at a university.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

For City of Nassau Bay families considering legal action, it’s important to know that liability in hazing cases can extend beyond just the students directly involved. Our firm aggressively pursues all responsible parties, which can include:

• Individual Students: The individuals who directly planned, supplied alcohol for, carried out, or actively participated in the hazing acts. This also includes those who facilitated cover-ups or failed to call for help when an individual was in distress.
• Local Chapter / Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself. If the organization has a legal structure, it can be sued. Individuals acting as officers or “pledge educators” who were directly involved in orchestrating or overseeing hazing also face liability.
• National Fraternity / Sorority Headquarters: These entities set policies, collect dues, provide resources, and often have a duty to supervise their local chapters. Their liability can arise if they knew (or should have known from prior incidents) about the hazing patterns and failed to intervene effectively or enforce their own anti-hazing policies.
• University or Governing Board: While public universities in Texas (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) have certain sovereign immunity protections, exceptions exist. Universities can be held liable for negligence, gross negligence, or deliberate indifference if they had knowledge of hazing, failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it, or inadequately responded to previous incidents. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) generally have fewer immunity defenses.
• Third Parties: This can include landlords or owners of off-campus houses or event spaces where hazing occurred, bars or other establishments that illegally served alcohol to minors involved in hazing (under dram shop laws), and even security companies or event organizers who failed in their duties.

Every hazing case is fact-specific, meaning not every party will be liable in every situation. Our role is to meticulously investigate and identify all potentially responsible parties to ensure full accountability for the harm suffered.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragic hazing incidents across the nation, though not always directly in Texas, cast a long shadow on the landscape of college life here. These anchor stories illustrate powerful patterns of abuse, institutional failure, and the critical role of civil litigation in driving accountability and legislative reform. For City of Nassau Bay families, these cases demonstrate the stakes involved and the legal precedents that can be brought to bear in Texas courts.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Excessive forced alcohol consumption is tragically the most common cause of hazing fatalities, a pattern repeated at universities across the U.S.:

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In one of the most high-profile hazing cases, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after a “bid acceptance” event involving extreme drinking. Security cameras within the Beta Theta Pi house tragically captured Piazza falling multiple times, suffering severe head injuries, while fraternity brothers delayed calling for medical help for nearly 12 hours. The aftermath led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the passing of the landmark Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania. This case dramatically exposed how extreme intoxication, delayed medical intervention, and a pervasive culture of silence can lead to devastating legal and human consequences.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old FSU pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event where pledges were pressured to consume large quantities of liquor. The incident resulted in criminal hazing charges against multiple fraternity members. In response, Florida State University temporarily suspended all Greek life and implemented significant policy overhauls. Coffey’s death underscores how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights with established scripts are recurring catalysts for tragedy.

• Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): During a “Bible study” drinking game, 18-year-old Max Gruver was forced to consume excessive alcohol whenever he answered a question incorrectly. His blood alcohol content measured 0.495% at the time of his death. Gruver’s death led directly to the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, which significantly strengthened the state’s anti-hazing laws, making certain hazing acts felony offenses. This case powerfully demonstrates how public outrage and clear evidence of hazing can directly trigger legislative reform.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, was forced to drink nearly an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” hazing night. He died from alcohol poisoning. The incident led to multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members and a significant $10 million settlement with his family, including nearly $3 million from Bowling Green State University and additional amounts from the national Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and individuals. The Foltz case is a stark reminder that universities, alongside fraternities, can face substantial financial and reputational consequences for their role in hazing deaths.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Hazing isn’t just about alcohol; ritualized physical abuse also claims lives and causes severe injury:

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old pledge, died after participating in a “glass ceiling” ritual at a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. During the ritual, he was blindfolded, forced to wear a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled by fraternity brothers. Despite suffering fatal head injuries, his fraternity brothers delayed seeking medical help for hours. The aftermath led to criminal convictions for multiple members, and the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity itself was convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, subsequently being banned from operating in Pennsylvania. This case highlights the extreme dangers of off-campus “retreats” used to hide hazing and underscores that national organizations can face criminal liability.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing extends far beyond Greek life, permeating other organizations on campus, including high-profile athletic programs:

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): In a scandal that rocked collegiate athletics, former football players extensively alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over multiple years. This included practices like the “Shrek” ritual (forced simulated sexual acts) and other forms of abuse. The allegations led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern University and its coaching staff. Head Coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired and later confidentially settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit. This incident clearly demonstrated that hazing is not confined to Greek organizations; major, well-funded athletic programs can also foster systemic abuse due to deeply entrenched “traditions” and a culture of complicity.

What These Cases Mean for City of Nassau Bay Families

These national tragedies, while often occurring outside of Texas, paint a clear picture for City of Nassau Bay and Harris County families:

• Common Threads: The patterns are chillingly consistent: forced drinking, extreme humiliation, physical violence, delayed or denied medical care, and systematic cover-ups.
• Accountability Follows Tragedy: Meaningful reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements frequently only occur after a tragedy and subsequent determined legal action.
• Texas is Not Immune: The legal landscape in Texas, including the Texas hazing statute and civil liability principles, are directly shaped by the lessons learned from these national cases. For families facing hazing at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, these national precedents provide a strong foundation for seeking justice.

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

For parents in City of Nassau Bay, Harris County, and across the Greater Houston area, connecting with a university can feel like a direct extension of home. Many City of Nassau Bay students choose to attend universities right here in Texas. Understanding the unique culture, hazing policies, and history of incidents at these major Texas institutions is paramount. Lawsuits, investigations, and policy changes at these universities have a direct impact on the safety of your children and inform the landscape for potential legal action.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

As a vibrant hub of education in our own Harris County, the University of Houston is a foundational institution for many City of Nassau Bay families. Its proximity means incidents affecting UH students often deeply resonate within our community.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston is a large, diverse urban campus. Its student body comprises a mix of commuters and residential students who contribute to a dynamic college experience right here in Houston. UH boasts an active Greek life with a multitude of fraternities and sororities, spanning IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural councils. Alongside these, numerous other student organizations, cultural groups, and athletic clubs contribute to the rich campus environment.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

UH maintains a clear stance against hazing. Its policy, consistent with Texas law, unequivocally prohibits hazing, whether it occurs on-campus or off-campus. The policy specifically bans forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and any acts designed to inflict mental distress as part of initiation or affiliation. UH provides various reporting channels for hazing incidents, including the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). The university also posts its hazing statement and some limited disciplinary information on its official website.

5.1.3 Example Incident & Response

A notable incident involving Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) in 2016 illustrated the serious consequences of hazing at UH. Pledges were allegedly subjected to food, water, and sleep deprivation during a multi-day event. One student reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being violently slammed onto a table or similar surface. This incident led to misdemeanor hazing charges and a significant university suspension for the chapter. While specific detailed public violation lists like those at UT Austin are not as common for UH, other disciplinary references have highlighted ongoing concerns, with fraternities facing suspensions or probation for behaviors “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” including alcohol misuse and policy violations.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Nassau Bay families, understanding the jurisdiction is key. If a hazing incident occurs at UH, multiple agencies may become involved. The University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) would typically lead investigations on campus, but the Houston Police Department (HPD) could also be involved, especially if the incident occurred off-campus within city limits or if the crimes are severe. Civil lawsuits stemming from hazing at UH would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County, which directly impacts our City of Nassau Bay community. Potential defendants could include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, potentially the university itself, and any property owners involved.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For students from City of Nassau Bay attending UH and their parents, proactive measures are crucial:

• Report promptly: Utilize UH’s designated channels such as the Dean of Students office, UHPD, or available online reporting forms if you suspect or experience hazing.
• Document Everything: If you become aware of hazing or its effects, immediately screenshot any digital communications, photograph injuries, and write down every detail you can recall. This will be invaluable for any subsequent investigation or legal action.
• Understand Prior Incidents: While UH’s public reporting may be less extensive, knowing about prior complaints and past disciplinary actions against specific organizations can be critical. An attorney experienced in Houston-based hazing cases can assist in uncovering these internal records and building a stronger case.
• Seek Legal Counsel Immediately: Do not hesitate to contact a lawyer experienced in hazing litigation. They can help navigate the complex university investigative processes, ensure evidence is preserved, and advise on your legal options available in Harris County courts.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, a storied institution in College Station, holds a unique place in the hearts of many Texans. For City of Nassau Bay families, Texas A&M is a destination for many aspiring students, particularly those interested in engineering, agriculture, and the revered Corps of Cadets. Its traditions and culture are deeply ingrained, leading to a specific set of challenges surrounding hazing allegations.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M is renowned for its strong traditions, fervent school spirit, and the esteemed Corps of Cadets. It boasts one of the largest Greek life systems in the state, alongside countless student organizations, all operating within a demanding academic environment. This culture, while cultivating strong bonds, sometimes creates an environment where “traditions” can escalate into dangerous hazing.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

Texas A&M strictly prohibits hazing, articulating clear policies through its Student Conduct office and within the Corps of Cadets regulations. The university’s hazing policy covers both on- and off-campus activities, mirroring the Texas Education Code. Reporting channels are available through Student Conduct, the university police (UHT), and the Corps leadership for its members. Texas A&M also publishes an annual summary of hazing violations as required by law.

5.2.3 Example Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced significant hazing allegations:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (around 2021): Two pledges alleged that they were forced to endure extreme physical hazing, including having substances like industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The pledges subsequently sued the fraternity for $1 million, and the SAE chapter was suspended for two years by the university.
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing rituals within the Corps, including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The cadet sought over $1 million in damages, highlighting how even highly structured, tradition-rich programs can foster hazing. A&M stated it handled the matter under its internal regulations.

These incidents highlight how hazing at A&M can occur within both traditional Greek life and the revered Corps of Cadets.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Nassau Bay families seeking justice from College Station, hazing cases emanating from Texas A&M may involve the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMU PD) and local law enforcement in Bryan/College Station. Civil suits would typically be heard in Brazos County courts. A unique aspect at A&M is the potential for both Greek life organizations and elements within the Corps of Cadets to be named as defendants. Cases often involve extensive investigation into long-standing “traditions” that may have crossed legal lines.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Families from City of Nassau Bay with students at Texas A&M should:

• Be vigilant about “traditions”: While A&M traditions are celebrated, they should never involve abuse. Question any activity that seems to degrade or endanger.
• Report Concerns: Use the Texas A&M Student Conduct reporting system or contact TAMU PD if you suspect hazing.
• Document and Photograph: Secure any evidence, especially photos of injuries or digital messages referring to “smokings,” “traditions,” or pledge activities.
• Seek Experienced Legal Advice: An attorney knowledgeable about both Greek life and the specific culture of the Corps of Cadets can provide invaluable guidance unique to Texas A&M cases.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The flagship University of Texas at Austin is a common destination for bright students from City of Nassau Bay and across Texas. Its large, diverse campus and vibrant Greek life scene present both immense opportunity and potential risks for hazing. UT has also been a leader in public transparency regarding hazing incidents, which provides critical data for families.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is one of the largest universities in the nation, boasting a sprawling campus and a rich academic environment. Its Greek life is extensive and deeply embedded, encompassing numerous fraternities and sororities, alongside competitive spirit organizations and highly sought-after student groups. This energetic atmosphere contributes to a dynamic college experience, but also, unfortunately, to recurring hazing issues that have garnered significant attention.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

The University of Texas at Austin maintains strong anti-hazing policies, mirroring the Texas Education Code definition. The university emphasizes that hazing is forbidden both on and off campus and actively encourages reporting through its Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD). Crucially, UT Austin also publishes a highly transparent and comprehensive Hazing Violations webpage that lists organizations, dates of incidents, a summary of the conduct, and the disciplinary sanctions imposed. This public log is a vital resource for families.

5.3.3 Example Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public hazing log reveals recurring patterns:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) (2023): The UT chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha (the same national fraternity involved in the Stone Foltz death) was disciplined after new members were directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. This was found to be hazing, leading to chapter probation and mandatory hazing-prevention education.
• Texas Wranglers (Spirit Organization): This well-known spirit organization has appeared on the hazing log for forced workouts and alcohol-related violations, demonstrating that hazing is not exclusive to Greek life.
• Other Groups: Numerous other fraternities, sororities, and student organizations have faced sanctions for various forms of hazing, including forced drinking, public degradation, sleep deprivation, and other punishment-based practices.

These repeated violations, clearly documented on UT’s public log, highlight persistent issues despite aggressive policies and transparency.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Nassau Bay families, hazing cases originating from UT Austin would typically involve the UTPD and/or the Austin Police Department. Civil lawsuits are usually filed in Travis County courts. The existence of UT’s public hazing log is a powerful tool in civil litigation, as it can be used to demonstrate a pattern of misconduct, the university’s prior knowledge of hazing within specific organizations, and its history (or lack thereof) of effective enforcement. This documented history can significantly strengthen arguments for institutional negligence.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

Students from City of Nassau Bay attending UT, and their parents, should:

• Consult the Hazing Log: Before joining any organization, review UT’s public Hazing Violations webpage to identify any groups with a disciplinary history.
• Document and Report: Use UTPD or the Dean of Students office to report any hazing. Screenshot all relevant digital communications and photograph any injuries immediately.
• Leverage Public Records: Recognize that prior violations listed on UT’s public log can be instrumental in building a legal case, providing evidence of foreseeability.
• Contact a Texas Hazing Attorney: Given the complexities of suing a state university and navigating its legal and public relations responses, an experienced hazing attorney is essential for City of Nassau Bay families seeking justice.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

For City of Nassau Bay families, the pursuit of top-tier private education often leads to Southern Methodist University in Dallas. SMU’s prestigious reputation, combined with its vibrant social scene and deeply embedded Greek life, makes it a significant, albeit sometimes challenging, environment.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Southern Methodist University is a private institution known for its high academic standards and affluent campus culture. Greek life is a central component of the social scene, with a high percentage of students participating in fraternities and sororities. This strong Greek presence, while offering social opportunities, also creates a dynamic where hazing can occur.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

SMU maintains and rigorously enforces strong anti-hazing policies, explicitly prohibiting any activity that could be considered hazing under Texas law. The university’s policies cover both on- and off-campus conduct. SMU utilizes various hazing prevention efforts, including dedicated reporting forms and anonymous reporting systems like “Real Response,” designed to encourage students to come forward without fear of retribution.

5.4.3 Example Incident & Response

A prominent incident at SMU involved Kappa Alpha Order in 2017. New members reportedly endured paddling, forced heavy alcohol consumption, and significant sleep deprivation. The university responded by suspending the chapter, imposing restrictions on new member recruitment for an extended period, and requiring compliance with specific educational and accountability programs.

The fact that SMU is a private university affects the transparency of its disciplinary records. While state universities like UT Austin publish detailed hazing logs, private institutions are not always subject to the same public disclosure requirements. This makes internal knowledge and skilled discovery (the legal process of requesting evidence) even more critical in building a case.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Nassau Bay families involved in an SMU hazing case, legal proceedings would typically occur in Dallas County courts. Unlike public universities, SMU, as a private institution, does not enjoy the same sovereign immunity protections, which can simplify some aspects of litigation. However, private universities vigorously defend themselves. Civil cases would focus on the conduct of individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and the university itself, relying on negligence and other tort claims. The discovery process would be crucial for uncovering internal records that detail past incidents and SMU’s responses.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

For students from City of Nassau Bay attending SMU and their parents:

• Be Proactive: Familiarize yourself with SMU’s anti-hazing policies and reporting mechanisms, including anonymous options.
• Document Thoroughly: Due to less public disclosure, detailed personal documentation of any hazing incidents—screenshots, photos, witness accounts—becomes even more critical.
• Understand Private vs. Public: Be aware that while private institutions have their own investigative processes, they may not be as transparent as state schools. Legal counsel can assist in compelling the disclosure of relevant information.
• Consult Legal Experts: An attorney with experience navigating hazing claims against private universities will understand how to effectively pursue accountability within those specific legal and institutional frameworks.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University in Waco is another prestigious private university that attracts students from City of Nassau Bay and across Texas, offering a values-based education rooted in its religious identity. However, Baylor has also faced significant scrutiny over major institutional failings, which impacts how hazing allegations are perceived and handled.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor is a large, private Christian university with a strong focus on faith, learning, and service. It fosters a close-knit campus community and has a prominent Greek life system and highly competitive athletic programs. The university’s identity is deeply intertwined with its mission, which brings both distinct traditions and a heightened expectation for ethical conduct.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

Baylor University strictly prohibits hazing in any form, aligned with Texas law and its institutional values. Its policies apply to all registered student organizations and athletic programs, both on and off campus. Baylor provides clear reporting channels through student conduct offices, the university police, and anonymous reporting systems, emphasizing its “zero tolerance” stance.

5.5.3 Example Incident & Response

Baylor has experienced hazing incidents, often intertwined with its broader institutional oversight challenges:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): An investigation at Baylor revealed hazing within the baseball program, leading to the suspension of 14 players. These suspensions were staggered across the early season, indicating the university’s response to the misconduct.
• Broader Context: These incidents occur within Baylor’s recent history of significant scrutiny over its handling of sexual assault allegations and Title IX compliance. This history creates a public expectation for robust institutional responses to all forms of student misconduct, including hazing.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Nassau Bay families pursuing a hazing claim originating from Baylor, legal jurisdiction would typically be in McLennan County courts. As a private university, Baylor does not have sovereign immunity protections, which can make it more directly subject to civil lawsuits. However, the university maintains a robust legal defense. Cases might explore the interplay between Baylor’s stated values, its “zero tolerance” policies, and any alleged failures in oversight or enforcement that contributed to hazing. The firm’s experience in holding major institutions accountable, even those with powerful legal teams, is crucial here.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

For students from City of Nassau Bay attending Baylor and their parents:

• Scrutinize Culture: Be aware that “traditions” should never compromise safety or dignity. Baylor’s extensive history with institutional accountability means claims of “we didn’t know” should be met with careful scrutiny.
• Utilize Reporting: Use Baylor’s official reporting channels, including anonymous options, if you suspect hazing.
• Consider Broader Context: Understand that any hazing incident at Baylor will be evaluated against the backdrop of the university’s past challenges regarding student safety and institutional response.
• Contact a Hazing Litigation Firm: Given Baylor’s experience with high-stakes litigation and its resources, securing an experienced hazing attorney who understands institutional accountability is paramount.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Behind the local chapters at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor lie national organizations—entities with long histories, established policies, and unfortunately, often a recurring pattern of hazing incidents across their collegiate network. For City of Nassau Bay families, understanding this dual layer of responsibility—local chapter conduct and national organizational oversight—is key to pursuing comprehensive accountability.

Why National Histories Matter

The reality is that many fraternities and sororities active at Texas’s major universities are chapters of larger national organizations. These national headquarters are not merely symbolic; they are sophisticated entities that:

• Develop extensive anti-hazing manuals and risk management policies. These policies exist precisely because these organizations have experienced deaths, catastrophic injuries, and multi-million-dollar lawsuits from hazing in the past.
• Possess deep institutional knowledge of common hazing patterns, including forced drinking nights, ritualized physical abuse (like paddling), and humiliating “traditions” that re-emerge across their chapters.

When a local chapter in Texas, say at the University of Houston or Texas A&M, repeats the same dangerous scripts that led to another chapter being shut down or sued in a different state, that previous history can be used to establish foreseeability. This is crucial for strengthening arguments of negligence, gross negligence, and even punitive damages against the national entities. They had prior notice; they knew the risks; they failed to stop it.

Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

While we cannot list every single chapter at every Texas university, here we provide a narrative summary of some significant fraternities and sororities present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor, focusing on those with well-documented national hazing issues.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): Active at many Texas campuses including UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor (IFC councils). Nationally, Pike has a tragic and extensive hazing history. The death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University (2021) due to forced alcohol consumption during a “Big/Little” night resulted in a $10 million settlement and multiple criminal convictions. The David Bogenberger death at Northern Illinois University (2012) from alcohol poisoning also led to a $14 million settlement. These incidents demonstrate a pattern of severe alcohol hazing within the fraternity, making it foreseeable when similar incidents occur.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and SMU (IFC councils). SAE has faced numerous hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide. The fraternity famously (and controversially) eliminated its pledge process for a period due to this history. Their hazing record includes:

  • A Traumatic Brain Injury Case filed against them at the University of Alabama (2023).
  • A $1 million lawsuit at their Texas A&M University chapter (2021) for chemical burns incurred by pledges from industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, requiring extensive skin grafts.
  • A recent assault lawsuit against their University of Texas at Austin chapter (2024) by an exchange student. These repeated incidents highlight a persistent pattern of extreme physical and degrading hazing.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Found on campuses like UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor (IFC councils). The national organization was implicated in the tragic death of Max Gruver at Louisiana State University (2017) from alcohol toxicity during a forced drinking game. This incident led to the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute in Louisiana.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, and UT (IFC councils). This fraternity was linked to the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017) due to acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event, triggering a statewide anti-hazing movement in Florida.

• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): With chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor (IFC councils). The most infamous case is the death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State University (2017) involving extreme alcohol consumption and a significant delay in medical care, leading to the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania and massive criminal and civil proceedings.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ): Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor (IFC councils). Kappa Sigma has faced significant hazing allegations, including a $12.6 million jury verdict in the wrongful death case of Chad Meredith at the University of Miami (2001), who drowned after being persuaded to swim while intoxicated during hazing. More recently, their Texas Christian University chapter faced arrests for hazing pledges (2018), and their Texas A&M University chapter has ongoing litigation (2023) involving allegations of severe physical hazing leading to rhabdomyolysis.

• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI): Present at Texas A&M (IFC council). This fraternity was centrally involved in the catastrophic injury of Danny Santulli at the University of Missouri (2021), where he suffered severe, permanent brain damage from forced excessive alcohol consumption during a pledge event. The Santulli family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants for multi-million-dollar confidential amounts, highlighting the extreme consequences of forced heavy drinking.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor (IFC councils). Very recently, a hazing lawsuit against their chapter at the College of Charleston (2024) resulted in the family receiving more than $10 million in damages for physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, and psychological torment, demonstrating juries’ willingness to award substantial damages. Their University of Texas at Arlington chapter also faced a lawsuit (2020) for a pledge hospitalized with alcohol poisoning from hazing.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The recurring nature of these incidents, even across different states and chapters, is not coincidental; it is critical evidence. For City of Nassau Bay families, these patterns translate directly into strong legal arguments:

• Foreseeability: These repeated incidents demonstrate that national organizations had ample prior warning about the dangers inherent in their chapters’ hazing activities. They knew, or should have known, that certain “traditions” or methods of initiation were high-risk.
• Knowledge of Risk: Courts can consider whether national headquarters genuinely enforced their anti-hazing policies or merely had them on paper as a legal shield. Was there effective oversight, or were prior incidents swept under the rug with minimal consequences?
• Basis for Negligence: This pattern evidence can bolster claims of negligence or gross negligence against not only the local chapter but also the national organization and potentially the university, especially if they failed to intervene despite clear notice.
• Impact on Financial Outcomes: The consistent history of multi-million-dollar settlements in hazing cases across the country factors into settlement leverage, insurance coverage disputes (as insurers are aware of the substantial losses), and the potential for punitive damages in Texas, where available.

Our firm meticulously researches the national and local history of organizations involved in hazing. This in-depth knowledge allows us to build powerful cases that argue for full accountability, ensuring that the lessons learned from past tragedies across the nation resonate in Texas courtrooms.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

When a hazing incident deeply impacts a family from City of Nassau Bay, the journey toward justice begins with meticulous investigation and strategic legal action. Building a successful case against powerful fraternities, universities, and individuals requires a deep understanding of evidence, a comprehensive accounting of damages, and a clear legal strategy.

7.1 Evidence

In today’s digital age, evidence is abundant if you know where and how to look for it. The Manginello Law Firm employs cutting-edge investigative techniques and works with experts to secure every piece of a hazing incident’s puzzle:

• Digital Communications: These are often the most critical evidence. We aggressively pursue and preserve communications from platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, Apple Messages, Discord, Slack, and any proprietary fraternity or sorority apps. This includes not only active messages but also recovered or deleted content. These conversations can reveal planning, intent, knowledge, and accountability—showing exactly who was involved, what was discussed, and what happened before, during, and after an incident. Our firm’s video on how to document a legal case using your cell phone provides valuable insights, available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs.
• Photos & Videos: Any content filmed by members during hazing events is invaluable. This includes footage shared in group chats, posted on social media, or even “disappearing” content from platforms like Snapchat. Additionally, surveillance cameras (e.g., at houses, venues, or Ring/security cameras at private residences) can provide crucial objective evidence.
• Internal Organization Documents: These can include pledge manuals, initiation scripts, lists of “traditions,” and any communications (emails, texts) from officers or members discussing plans for pledges. National anti-hazing policies and risk management materials also become central to proving notice and negligence.
• University Records: Through discovery and open records requests, we can subpoena university investigatory files, prior conduct reports, records of probation or suspensions for specific organizations, incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices, and even Clery Act reports to identify patterns of campus misconduct.
• Medical and Psychological Records: Comprehensive medical documentation is essential. This includes emergency room reports, hospitalization records, surgery and rehabilitation notes, and toxicology reports (for alcohol or drug-related hazing). Crucially, psychological evaluations for conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidality provide formal documentation of mental health damages.
• Witness Testimony: The accounts of other pledges, current or former members, roommates, Resident Assistants (RAs), coaches, trainers, or any bystanders are vital. Our team works to secure testimony from individuals who may have been coerced into silence, offering them guidance on how to safely come forward.

7.2 Damages

Hazing causes profound and multifaceted harm. In civil litigation, the goal is to secure compensation that accurately reflects the full scope of these damages. We meticulously document and present every category of loss:

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers immediate emergency room visits, ambulance transport, hospitalizations, surgeries, ongoing treatments, physical therapy, medications, and mental health counseling. For catastrophic injuries like brain damage or organ failure, we work with life care planners to project the extensive costs of long-term care and necessary support.
• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can disrupt academic careers, leading to missed semesters, withdrawal from school, or a delayed graduation. This not only impacts educational attainment but also postpones entry into the workforce and can reduce lifetime earning capacity if injuries are permanent.
• Non-Economic Damages: These are subjective but profoundly real losses. They include physical pain and suffering; intense emotional distress, trauma, and humiliation; and the loss of enjoyment of life. This last category encompasses the inability to participate in previously loved activities, withdrawal from social life, and the shattered college experience.
• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): When hazing tragically results in death, surviving family members can seek compensation for funeral and burial costs; the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided; and, most significantly, the profound loss of companionship, love, and society, as well as the emotional grief and suffering endured by parents, siblings, and other close family members.

It’s critical to note that we describe types of damages you may be able to recover, not specific dollar amounts. Every case’s value is unique and depends on its specific facts and the extent of the harm.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing litigation often involves powerful institutional defendants—national fraternities, universities, and their insurers—who have vast resources and experienced legal teams.

• Insurance Coverage Fights: National fraternities and universities typically carry substantial insurance policies designed to cover such incidents. However, insurers are notoriously aggressive in trying to avoid paying out on these claims. They often argue that hazing or “intentional acts” are excluded from coverage or that their policy doesn’t cover certain named defendants.
• Our Expertise: Attorney911, led by Ralph Manginello and with the crucial insight of Lupe Peña (a former insurance defense attorney), is uniquely positioned to identify all potential sources of insurance coverage. We understand insurers’ playbooks because we’ve seen them firsthand. We know how to challenge wrongful denials, navigate complex policy exclusions, and strategically force insurers to defend their clients and negotiate fair settlements. This insider knowledge helps us maximize recovery for our clients. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is particularly crucial for navigating these disputes.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For City of Nassau Bay families, facing hazing requires immediate and informed action. This section provides actionable guidance tuned to your needs, whether you are a concerned parent, a student experiencing hazing, or a witness ready to speak out.

8.1 For Parents

Parents in City of Nassau Bay need to be the first line of defense for their children entering college.

• Warning Signs of Hazing:
  • Unexplained injuries: Bruises, burns, cuts, or “accidents” that don’t add up.
  • Extreme fatigue: Your child is constantly exhausted, far beyond typical college stress, often from chronic sleep deprivation.
  • Drastic mood changes: Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, sudden withdrawal from family or old friends.
  • Constant secret phone use: Obsessive checking of group chats, fear of missing “mandatory” events, or an unwillingness to discuss phone activity.
  • Unusual purchases: Large expenses for “fines,” dues, or items for older members without clear explanation.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach with empathy, not accusation. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with the group? Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?” Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priority, and you support them no matter what.
• If Your Child is Hurt: Get them medical attention immediately. Document everything meticulously: screenshot texts, DMs, group chats, photos of injuries (with dates and times), and note down every detail they share. Save receipts for any “forced” purchases or objects used.
• Dealing with the University: Document every single communication you have with university administrators. Ask specific questions about any prior incidents involving the organization, and what disciplinary actions were taken. University processes can be opaque; a lawyer can help ensure transparency.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child suffers significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing what happened, it is time to contact an attorney experienced in hazing cases. Do not delay.

8.2 For Students / Pledges

If you are a student from City of Nassau Bay, whether at UH, A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, or elsewhere in Texas, experiencing hazing, your safety is paramount, and your voice is powerful.

• Is this hazing or just tradition? Ask yourself: If you feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced; if you’re forced to drink, endure pain, or perform degrading acts; if the activity is kept secret from the public or administrators – it is very likely hazing. True tradition should uplift, not degrade.
• Why “consent” isn’t the end of the story: You might feel like you “agreed” to participate, but psychological research confirms that “consent” under extreme peer pressure, a desire for belonging, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent. Texas law explicitly recognizes this: Texas Education Code § 37.155 states that consent is not a defense to hazing. You cannot legally consent to a crime.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time. If you feel unsafe, call 911 or campus police immediately. For quitting, tell a trusted adult outside the group first (parent, RA, trusted professor) for documentation. Send an email to leadership stating your resignation and avoid “one last meeting” where you might be pressured. Anonymous reporting options are available through campus channels or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293).
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many Texas universities and state law offer “Good Samaritan” protections, ensuring that if you call for help for someone in distress (e.g., alcohol poisoning), you will not be penalized for minor policy violations like underage drinking, even if you were involved. Your safety and the safety of others always come first.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were once involved in hazing, or witnessed it, and now regret your participation or inaction, your actions can make a huge difference.

• Breaking the Silence: Acknowledge the guilt and fear you might feel. However, your testimony and any evidence you possess could prevent future tragedies and save lives. Many former members choose to cooperate, seeing it as a crucial step toward accountability and preventing others from suffering.
• Your Own Legal Advice: While cooperating is vital, you may also want to seek your own legal advice, especially if you have concerns about your own past involvement. Lawyers can help navigate your role as a witness, protect your interests, and guide you through the process of providing information to investigators or in a civil suit.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Hazing Case

For City of Nassau Bay families, avoiding common pitfalls in the immediate aftermath of a hazing incident is as crucial as taking positive action. The Manginello Law Firm’s video, “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY, provides extensive detail, but here are some critical warnings:

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence:
   • Why it’s wrong: While you might want to protect your child, deleting evidence looks like a cover-up, can be considered obstruction of justice, and makes prosecuting a case nearly impossible.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even if it’s embarrassing or incriminating for others.
2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly:
   • Why it’s wrong: They will immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses. You inadvertently give them a head start.
   • What to do instead: Document everything, then call a lawyer BEFORE any confrontation.
3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms:
   • Why it’s wrong: Universities often pressure families into internal resolutions or waivers that could unknowingly forfeit your child’s right to pursue legal action. Settlements are often far below the true value of the case.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or organization without an attorney reviewing it first.
4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a Lawyer:
   • Why it’s wrong: Anything posted can be used by defense attorneys, creating inconsistencies that hurt credibility and potentially waiving legal privilege.
   • What to do instead: Document privately, share only with your attorney, and let your lawyer control any public messaging.
5. Letting Your Child Go Back to “One Last Meeting”:
   • Why it’s wrong: These are often designed to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can later be used against them in an investigation or lawsuit.
   • What to do instead: Once legal action is considered, all communication should go through your lawyer.
6. Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”:
   • Why it’s wrong: While universities conduct their own investigations, evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations continues to run. The university’s process is not a substitute for legal action and often prioritizes institutional protection over comprehensive victim accountability.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW and consult a lawyer immediately.
7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer:
   • Why it’s wrong: Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Recorded statements can be used against you, and early settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with them and state, “My attorney will contact you.”

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 specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential, case-specific analysis.
• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. While Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This means individuals involved could face felony charges. Chapter officers can also face misdemeanor charges for failing to report hazing under certain circumstances.
• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation activities?”
  Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing charges or civil liability. Courts recognize that “consent” given under extreme peer pressure, group coercion, and the fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent. Your child was a victim, not a willing participant in illegal acts.
• “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 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 fraudulent concealment, the statute may also be tolled (paused). Time is absolutely critical—evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations may destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to discuss your specific timeline. For more information, you can watch our video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.
• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of the hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities/sororities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and whether the incident was foreseeable. Many major hazing cases that resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments (like Michael Deng’s death at a Pi Delta Psi retreat or Collin Wiant’s death at an unofficial Sigma Pi house) occurred off-campus.
• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing cases settle confidentially before going to a public trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy and work to request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. Our focus is always on achieving justice and accountability while protecting your child’s future and well-being.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family faces the profound trauma of a hazing incident, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need tenacious legal advocates who deeply understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. This is precisely the expertise that The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, brings to City of Nassau Bay and families across Texas.

From our Houston office, a short drive from City of Nassau Bay in neighboring Harris County, we deeply understand the unique connections between our local communities and the major Texas universities. We represent families who send their children to the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, and other institutions, knowing that these challenging experiences can impact every corner of our state.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases

At Attorney911, we are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ because we provide immediate, aggressive, and professional legal representation when it matters most. Our unique qualifications are specifically tailored to the complexities of hazing litigation:

• Insurance Insider Advantage with Lupe Peña: Our Associate Attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable insider knowledge. As a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm, she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies operate. She understands their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and their precise methods for valuing (and often undervaluing) hazing claims. “We know their playbook because we used to run it,” and this insight is a game-changer for our clients in City of Nassau Bay and beyond.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions with Ralph P. Manginello: Our Managing Partner, Ralph Manginello, is no stranger to taking on formidable opponents. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the historic BP Texas City explosion litigation—a testament to his capacity for complex litigation against billion-dollar corporations. His extensive federal court experience (including the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, multi-million-dollar universities, or their sophisticated defense teams. We have a proven track record of fighting powerful defendants and ensuring serious accountability. You can learn more about Ralph Manginello’s credentials at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.
• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience: We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force accountability. Our firm has achieved multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases (learn more at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/). We collaborate with top economists and medical experts to fully value lifetime care needs for severe injuries like brain damage or organ failure, ensuring comprehensive compensation.
• Criminal and Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a distinct advantage. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation, allowing us to advise victims, witnesses, and even former members on their dual exposure and legal pathways. Our criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) means we can strategically navigate parallel proceedings.
• Unmatched Investigative Depth: We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it often does. We leverage a network of medical, digital forensics, economic, and psychological experts. Our team meticulously obtains hidden evidence, including deleted group chats, internal chapter records, and university files through robust discovery and public records requests. We know how to uncover what institutions try to hide.

We understand not only the law but also the critical cultural nuances of fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments. We know how to investigate modern hazing, balance victim privacy with public accountability, and prove coercion in environments typically shrouded in secrecy.

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 don’t believe in mere bravado or quick settlements; we are committed to thorough investigation, real accountability, and securing lasting justice.

Call to Action

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether at the University of Houston, or any of the other universities across our state, we want to hear from you. Families in City of Nassau Bay, throughout Harris County, and across the Greater Houston area have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened without judgment, explain your legal options transparently, and help you decide the best path forward for your family. During your free consultation, you can expect:

• A compassionate and understanding ear to your story.
• A review of any evidence you may have (photos, texts, medical records).
• A clear explanation of your legal options: whether a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither, is appropriate.
• A realistic discussion about timelines and what to expect throughout the legal process.
• Answers to your questions about costs – we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. For more information on fees, watch our video, “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
• Absolutely no pressure to hire us on the spot; we encourage you to take the time you need to make this crucial decision.
• Everything you tell us is strictly confidential.

You can reach Attorney911 at any of our offices in Houston, Austin, or Beaumont, Texas, by:

Call us today:

• Primary Phone: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct: (713) 528-9070
• Cell: (713) 443-4781

Visit our Website: https://attorney911.com

Email Ralph Manginello directly: ralph@atty911.com

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

Whether you’re in City of Nassau Bay, Harris County, or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com