In the City of Tomball, our fraternity and sorority hazing lawyers at Attorney911 — Legal Emergency Lawyers™ offer unparalleled legal support. We handle university hazing injury and wrongful death cases, leveraging a former insurance defense attorney’s insight into fraternity insurance tactics. With federal court experience against national fraternities and universities, and BP explosion litigation proving our fight against massive institutions, we bring HCCLA criminal defense and civil wrongful death expertise. We have multi-million dollar proven results in hazing cases from UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor, specializing in evidence preservation. With 25+ years experience, we offer a free consultation and contingency fee (“No Win, No Fee”). Hablamos Español. Call 1-888-ATTY-911.

Texas Hazing: A Comprehensive Guide for City of Tomball Families to Understanding Rights, Cases, and Accountability

The phone rings late, a frantic voice on the other end. Your child, a bright student from City of Tomball, is away at a Texas university, chasing their dreams – perhaps at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor. They’re usually so independent, but tonight, their voice is small, full of fear. They’ve been at an “initiation night” or a “pledge event” at an off-campus house where things have gone too far. They were pressured to drink bottle after bottle of liquor, forced to endure humiliating acts, or subjected to intense physical abuse. Others were filming on phones, chanting, laughing, while someone else just collapsed, unconscious. No one wants to call 911 because they’re afraid of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.” Your child feels trapped between loyalty to the group and their own safety.

This isn’t a hypothetical nightmare—it’s a scenario that plays out far too often on Texas college campuses. For families in City of Tomball and across Harris County, sending a child off to college is a momentous occasion, filled with hope and pride. The thought that they might encounter dangerous hazing rituals is often far from mind. However, the reality is that hazing remains a persistent and dangerous problem, evolving into new forms that are harder to detect but just as harmful, or even deadly.

This comprehensive guide to hazing and the law in Texas is written specifically for families in City of Tomball, Greater Houston, and throughout Texas who need to understand:

• What hazing looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes.
• How Texas and federal laws address hazing, providing pathways for accountability.
• The critical lessons from major national hazing cases and their direct relevance to Texas families.
• The specific hazing incidents and histories at major Texas universities like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University.
• The legal options and recourse available to victims and their families in City of Tomball and across the Lone Star State.

While this article provides general information and a broad overview, it is not a substitute for specific legal advice. Every case is unique, and we strongly encourage you to contact an experienced attorney for a confidential evaluation tailored to your family’s specific facts. We serve families throughout Texas, including those in City of Tomball, Spring, The Woodlands, Cypress, Tomball, and other communities across Harris County and beyond.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

• In the first 48 hours:

  • Get medical attention immediately, even if your child insists they are “fine” or “don’t want to get anyone in trouble.” Prioritize their health and safety.
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
    • Screenshot group chats, text messages, and direct messages (DMs) immediately. Capture full threads with timestamps and participant names.
    • Photograph any injuries from multiple angles, using a common object for scale.
    • Save any physical items that could be evidence, such as damaged clothing worn during the incident, receipts for forced purchases, or unusual objects used in hazing activities.
  • Write down everything while memory is fresh: who was involved, what happened, when it occurred, and where. Detailed notes are invaluable.
  • Do NOT:
    • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or individuals directly. This can lead to evidence destruction or retaliation.
    • Sign anything from the university or any insurance company without legal counsel. You could inadvertently waive critical rights.
    • Post details or accusations on public social media. This can compromise your legal case.
    • Allow your child to delete messages, clear browser history, or “clean up” any evidence.

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

  • Evidence disappears rapidly – deleted group chats, destroyed property, and coached witnesses can quickly undermine a case.
  • Universities often move quickly to control the narrative and manage public perception.
  • Our experienced legal team can help you preserve crucial evidence, protect your child’s rights, and guide you through immediate next steps.
  • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate, confidential consultation.

2. Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

The popular image of hazing often involves stereotypical scenes from movies – foolish pranks or mild inconveniences meant to “build character.” However, the reality of hazing in 2025, particularly on college campuses in Texas and across the nation, is far more insidious, dangerous, and technologically advanced. It is not “just a little fun” or “tradition.” Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits an individual.

It is crucial to understand that a student’s “agreement” or perception that they “consented” to these activities does not automatically make them safe or legal. In environments dominated by peer pressure, a strong desire for belonging, and significant power imbalances between new members and older members, true consent is often impossible.

2.1 Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing tactics have evolved, becoming more covert and psychologically manipulative while still retaining elements of past physical abuse. Here are the main categories we see today:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This remains one of the most prevalent and deadly forms of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking of alcoholic beverages, often in dangerous quantities. This can include “chugging challenges,” “lineups” where new members must rapidly consume drinks, or “games” specifically designed to induce extreme intoxication. Students may also be pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances, including illicit drugs, with severe and often life-threatening consequences. Examples abound across Texas, from the fraternities around the University of Houston to those at Texas A&M.

• Physical Hazing: While some physical hazing (like traditional paddling or beatings) has decreased due to increased awareness and penalties, it still occurs. More commonly, it manifests as extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” that push physical limits far beyond normal conditioning for extended periods, risking rhabdomyolysis or other serious injuries. Sleep deprivation, food and water deprivation, and intentional exposure to extreme cold or heat, or other dangerous environments, are also forms of physical hazing that can lead to severe health crises.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This category is particularly psychologically damaging. It can involve forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (often under demeaning labels such as “roasted pig” positions), wearing degrading costumes, or being subjected to acts with racist, sexist, or homophobic overtones, including slurs or forced role-play of stereotypes. These acts often extend to both male and female groups and can leave deep, lasting emotional scars.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but profoundly damaging, psychological hazing uses coercive tactics to break down an individual’s self-esteem and independence. This can involve constant verbal abuse, threats, forced social isolation, or manipulation. Students may be subjected to forced confessions of personal details, public shaming (whether online or in person), or continuous intimidation designed to instill fear and absolute obedience. Students from City of Tomball attending schools like Baylor, with its strong sense of community, can be particularly vulnerable to this form of abuse as they seek belonging.

• Digital/Online Hazing: With the pervasive use of smartphones and social media, hazing has moved into the digital realm. This includes group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation orchestrated via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord, and others. Students may be pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to engage in cyberstalking or harassment of others. Constant monitoring of group chats, requiring instant responses at all hours, and controlling a student’s online persona are also modern forms of digital coercion that contribute to sleep deprivation and intense anxiety.

2.2 Where Hazing Actually Happens

The misconception that hazing is exclusively a “frat boy” problem is both outdated and dangerous. While fraternities and sororities (across IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural councils) are frequently involved, hazing extends far beyond Greek life. We see it across:

• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: At institutions like Texas A&M University, where tradition and hierarchy are deeply ingrained, military-style organizations can sometimes foster hazing under the guise of “building discipline” or “tradition.”
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Organizations that carry significant campus history or pride, such as spirit groups, can exert immense pressure on new members to endure abusive initiations.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports, hazing is a documented issue in athletic programs. The Northwestern University hazing scandal, for instance, highlighted widespread abuse within a high-profile athletic department.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups are not immune. The tragic death of Robert Champion from hazing in the Florida A&M University marching band served as a stark reminder of this.
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any group with an exclusive membership, hierarchy, or rigorous initiation process can become a vector for hazing when individuals in leadership positions abuse their power.

Hazing persists because it is often shrouded in secrecy and justified by complex group dynamics. Social status, the weight of “tradition,” and a powerful code of silence perpetuate these practices, even when all members “know” that hazing is illegal and dangerous. For families in City of Tomball who live close to the diverse array of institutions across Texas, understanding this broader context is vital.

3. Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape around hazing in Texas is crucial for City of Tomball families seeking justice and accountability. Texas law provides clear prohibitions and penalties, and both state and federal frameworks can be leveraged in civil litigation.

3.1 Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. In plain terms, this law broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether committed by one person alone or with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students. For an act to be considered hazing, it must:

• Endanger the mental or physical health or safety of a student (e.g., beating, forced exercise, coerced alcohol or drug consumption, severe sleep deprivation, extreme public humiliation).
• Or substantially affect the mental health or safety of a student (e.g., extreme intimidation, psychological manipulation, prolonged verbal abuse).

This definition is critical because it explicitly includes mental harm and applies regardless of whether the hazing occurs on or off campus.

Key aspects of Texas hazing law:

• Criminal Penalties: Hazing is a criminal offense in Texas. While less severe hazing starts as a Class B Misdemeanor (punishable by fines and potential jail time), it can quickly escalate. If hazing causes an injury requiring medical treatment, it becomes a Class A Misdemeanor. Critically, if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it is classified as a state jail felony in Texas. Furthermore, individuals holding leadership positions or who are members of an organization and fail to report known hazing can face misdemeanor charges. Retaliation against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor offense.
• Organizational Liability: The law extends beyond individuals. Organizations themselves (such as fraternities, sororities, or sports teams) can be held criminally liable for hazing if they authorized or encouraged the hazing, or if an officer or senior member, acting in their official capacity, knew about the hazing and failed to report it. Organizations found liable face fines up to $10,000 per violation and can have their recognition revoked by the university.
• Consent is Not a Defense: A particularly important provision in Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that it is not a defense to hazing charges that the person being hazed consented to the activity. This recognizes the inherent power imbalance and peer pressure that makes true voluntary consent impossible in a hazing context. This is a powerful legal protection for students, including those from City of Tomball facing immense pressure to conform.
• Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting: To encourage reporting, Texas law provides immunity from civil or criminal liability to individuals who report hazing incidents in good faith. Additionally, Texas law, like many university policies, often applies some form of amnesty for individuals who call 911 or seek medical help in good faith during a medical emergency, even if underage drinking or other minor infractions were involved.

It is important to remember that this is a summary; an experienced attorney can provide a detailed analysis of the specific statutes as they apply to your situation.

3.2 Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, multiple legal avenues may become available. It’s crucial to understand the distinct purposes of criminal and civil cases:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated and pursued by the state (through a prosecutor) against individuals or organizations accused of violating criminal hazing laws. The primary aim of a criminal case is to punish offenders through fines, jail time, probation, or community service. Common hazing-related criminal charges in Texas can include hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault or battery, and even negligent homicide or manslaughter in cases involving severe injury or death.
• Civil Cases: These are brought by the victims of hazing or their surviving family members (the plaintiffs) against the individuals and entities responsible (the defendants). The primary aim of a civil case is to provide monetary compensation (damages) to the victim for their losses and to hold responsible parties accountable. Civil claims often allege:
  • Negligence or Gross Negligence: Arguing that a duty of care was breached, leading to harm.
  • Wrongful Death: When hazing results in a fatality.
  • Negligent Hiring/Supervision: Against organizations or universities that failed to properly supervise members or employees.
  • Premises Liability: Against property owners where hazing occurred.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe psychological harm.

It is vital to note that a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. The standards of proof differ, and a civil case can proceed even if criminal charges are never filed or do not result in a conviction.

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

Beyond state law, federal regulations and statutes also play a role, particularly for universities receiving federal funding:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation, set to be fully implemented by around 2026, requires colleges and universities that receive federal student aid to:
  • Report hazing incidents more transparently, including detailed information about the nature of the incidents and the disciplinary actions taken.
  • Strengthen hazing education and prevention programs for students, faculty, and staff.
  • Maintain and publicly disseminate comprehensive data on hazing violations and related convictions. This enhanced transparency will make it easier for families in City of Tomball to research the safety records of institutions across Texas.
• Title IX: This federal law prohibits discrimination based on sex (including sexual harassment and sexual violence) in education programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, gender-based hostility, or other forms of sex discrimination, it triggers a university’s Title IX obligations, requiring investigations and remedial actions.
• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. While hazing itself may not always be a Clery reportable crime, hazing incidents often involve underlying criminal acts such as assault, aggravated assault, sex offenses, alcohol violations, or drug abuse that are reportable under Clery. This helps create a broader picture of campus safety and accountability.

3.4 Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Holding responsible parties accountable often involves identifying multiple layers of culpability. In a civil hazing lawsuit, various individuals and entities can be named as defendants:

• Individual Students: Those who actively planned, orchestrated, participated in, supplied alcohol or drugs, carried out the abusive acts, failed to intervene, or helped cover up the hazing.
• Local Chapter / Organization: The immediate fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself. This often includes officers, “pledge educators,” or other members acting in an official capacity for the group who organized or facilitated the hazing.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The larger, national (or international) organization that charters and governs local chapters. National HQs often provide policies, training, and oversight. They can be held liable if they knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing at a local chapter or across their organization, but failed to adequately intervene, enforce policies, or prevent future harm.
• University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself, or its Board of Regents. Universities have a duty to provide a safe educational environment. Liability can arise from:
  • Negligent Supervision: Failing to adequately supervise student organizations.
  • Deliberate Indifference: Knowing about a pattern of hazing or abuse but failing to take appropriate action.
  • Breach of Contract: Failing to adhere to published policies and codes of conduct.
  • Failure to Warn: Not warning students and parents about known risks.
    Public universities in Texas (such as UH, Texas A&M, and UT) may assert sovereign immunity under state law, but exceptions for gross negligence, certain statutory waivers, and Title IX violations can allow cases to proceed against them or against individual employees in their personal capacities. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) typically have fewer immunity protections.
• Third Parties: Other entities can sometimes bear responsibility:
  • Landlords/Property Owners: If the hazing occurred on property they own, especially if they knew or should have known about illegal activity.
  • Bars or Alcohol Providers: If they unlawfully served alcohol to minors, contributing to hazing-related intoxication (under Texas dram shop liability laws).
  • Security Companies or Event Organizers: If their negligence contributed to the incident.

Every hazing case is fact-specific, and the liable parties will vary depending on the unique circumstances and the available evidence. A thorough investigation is crucial to identify all potential defendants.

4. National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

While our focus is on Texas and the specific concerns of City of Tomball families, understanding major national hazing cases is vital. These high-profile tragedies have not only shaped anti-hazing legislation across the country but also reveal recurring patterns of abuse, cover-ups, and institutional failures. These cases serve as powerful anchor stories, demonstrating the severe consequences of hazing and the precedents set for civil accountability.

4.1 Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption remains the leading cause of hazing-related fatalities. The common threads in these cases—extreme intoxication, delayed medical care, and a pervasive culture of silence—often lead to devastating outcomes.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died after falling repeatedly and suffering a fractured skull and ruptured spleen during a “bid acceptance” event. Fraternity members forced him to drink dangerous amounts of alcohol, and security camera footage revealed hours of delayed medical attention as he lay injured. Ultimately, 18 fraternity members were charged with over 1,000 criminal counts, including involuntary manslaughter. His family pursued civil litigation, leading to confidential settlements. Timothy’s death spurred the passage of the landmark Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, making hazing a felony under certain circumstances. This case underscored how extreme intoxication, deliberate delays in calling 911, and a widespread conspiracy to cover up evidence can have devastating legal consequences.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a freshman, died from acute alcohol poisoning at an off-campus “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and forced to consume them rapidly. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal prosecution for hazing, with several pleading guilty to misdemeanor charges. In response, FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life and implemented significant policy overhauls. This tragic incident highlights how deeply ingrained and formulaic “tradition” drinking nights continue to be a script for disaster across the Greek system, including at chapters in Texas.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, died from alcohol toxicity after a “Bible study” drinking game. During this ritual, pledges were forced to drink heavily if they answered questions incorrectly. His blood alcohol content (BAC) was an astounding 0.495%. Max’s death led to the enactment of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, which significantly strengthened the state’s anti-hazing laws, making certain hazing acts felony offenses. A jury later awarded Max’s family $6.1 million, demonstrating that courts and juries reject the defense that such participation is “voluntary.” The case shows how legislative change often directly follows public outrage and clear evidence of hazing, impacting policies even in states neighboring Texas.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume a nearly full bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” pledge night. Multiple individuals were criminally convicted of hazing-related charges. In the civil realm, Stone’s family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with approximately $7 million coming from the national Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and roughly $3 million from Bowling Green State University. This case reinforced that universities, even public ones, can face substantial financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities. It also led to Ohio’s Collin’s Law, further strengthening anti-hazing legislation.

4.2 Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, hazing often involves severe physical abuse and dangerous rituals, sometimes moving incidents to secluded locations to avoid detection.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, an 18-year-old pledge, suffered a fatal head injury during a Pi Delta Psi fraternity retreat in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. Blindfolded and wearing a heavy backpack, he was repeatedly tackled in a ritual called the “glass ceiling.” Fraternity members delayed calling 911 for over two hours. This tragic incident resulted in multiple members being convicted of various charges, and the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, subsequently being banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. This case clearly demonstrates that off-campus “retreats” are frequently venues for dangerous hazing and that national organizations bear significant legal and criminal responsibility for their chapters’ actions.

4.3 Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not confined to Greek life; it is a pervasive issue that can infiltrate major athletic programs which often come with significant institutional power and resources.

• Northwestern University Athletic Hazing Scandal (2023–2025): This wide-ranging scandal involved former football players alleging widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over multiple years. Allegations included forced naked acts, sexual simulation, and extreme physical activities. Multiple players filed lawsuits against Northwestern University and its coaching staff, leading to the highly publicized firing of head football coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later settled his wrongful-termination suit confidentially with the university. The scandal expanded to other Northwestern athletic programs, including baseball and volleyball, revealing systemic failures in oversight. This case vividly illustrates that hazing is not solely a Greek life phenomenon; influential and high-revenue athletic programs can harbor deeply disturbing and systemic abuse, raising critical questions about institutional oversight that resonate with similar concerns around athletic programs at Texas universities.

4.4 What These Cases Mean for City of Tomball Families in Texas

These anchor stories, though originating outside of Texas, share common, chilling threads that directly impact City of Tomball families:

• Recurring Patterns: The incidents consistently feature forced drinking, physical abuse, psychological humiliation, dangerous rituals and tasks, a pervasive code of silence, delayed or denied medical care, and attempts at cover-ups. These are not isolated incidents but follow a playbook that has persisted for decades.
• Post-Tragedy Reforms: In almost every case, multi-million-dollar settlements, significant legal reforms, and permanent bans on chapters or organizations only followed after a tragedy and subsequent determined legal action. This shows the critical role civil litigation plays in driving meaningful change.
• Foreseeability: The extensive histories of hazing at national fraternities and sororities mean that such incidents are often foreseeable. When a Texas chapter engages in ritualized hazing that mirrors past tragedies from other states, it strengthens arguments that the national organization, and potentially the university, knew or should have known of the risks and failed to act.
• Legal Precedents: The outcomes of these cases—particularly judgments against national organizations and universities—establish precedents that are highly influential in Texas courts. They demonstrate that powerful institutions can and will be held accountable.

City of Tomball families whose children attend or are considering attending universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor are not alone in facing the challenges of hazing. The lessons learned from these national tragedies directly inform the strategies we employ in fighting for justice and accountability right here in Texas.

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

For families in City of Tomball and across Harris County, these major Texas universities are often where young adults begin their higher education journey. While each institution boasts a unique culture and academic focus, they unfortunately share a common vulnerability to hazing. Understanding the specific context at each of these major Texas campuses is vital for parents and students alike. We will explore each one, noting their policies, documented incidents, and how legal cases might proceed, keeping the perspective of City of Tomball families in mind.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant urban campus located within Harris County, serves many students from City of Tomball and the surrounding Greater Houston area. With a diverse student body and active Greek life, including a mix of fraternities and sororities under various councils, UH experiences hazing concerns typical of large public universities.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH is a large public research university, deeply integrated into the Houston community. It serves a significant commuter population alongside a growing residential campus life. Its Greek system is quite active, encompassing Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council (HPC), Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), United Greek Council (UGC), and National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) organizations. Various other student organizations, athletic clubs, and academic groups contribute to its bustling campus environment.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly stating that hazing is prohibited whether it occurs on-campus, off-campus, or online. The policy explicitly forbids:

• Forced consumption of alcohol, food, liquid, or drugs.
• Sleep deprivation.
• Physical mistreatment, excessive exercise, or other forms of forced physical activity.
• Any action that causes mental distress, unwanted exposure, or public humiliation for the purpose of initiation or affiliation.
  UH provides multiple reporting channels, including the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD), and an online reporting form.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

While UH does not maintain as comprehensive a public hazing report as UT Austin, past incidents have come to light:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) Incident (2016): One of the more severe incidents involved the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Pledges were allegedly subjected to intense sleep and food deprivation during a multi-day event. One student involved reportedly suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table or similar surface during the hazing. The UH chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges, and the university initiated a substantial suspension. This incident underlined the severe physical dangers involved in hazing and led to heightened scrutiny of Greek life at UH.
• Subsequent Disciplinary Actions: Several other fraternities and sororities at UH have faced disciplinary action for hazing-related behaviors, including alcohol misuse, forced activities “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” and policy violations leading to suspensions or probationary periods. While details are often less publicized than criminal charges, these actions indicate ongoing efforts by UH to address hazing.

These incidents highlight UH’s efforts to respond to reported hazing, often resulting in suspensions or other severe penalties for offending chapters. However, the less detailed public reporting means City of Tomball families might not always have full visibility into the specifics of every incident.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a City of Tomball family whose child experiences hazing at the University of Houston or other Harris County campuses, the legal process will involve multiple agencies and jurisdictions.

• Law Enforcement: Depending on the location of the incident (on-campus vs. off-campus home in Houston), both the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) and the Houston Police Department (HPD) could be involved in any criminal investigation. The Harris County District Attorney’s Office would handle prosecution of any criminal charges.
• Civil Litigation: Any civil lawsuits would likely be filed in the appropriate district courts within Harris County, which encompasses City of Tomball.
• Potential Defendants: These could include the individual students involved, the local chapter of the fraternity or sorority, the national organization, property owners (if the hazing occurred at an off-campus house), and potentially The University of Houston itself, through claims of negligence. While public universities in Texas, including UH, are generally protected by sovereign immunity, exceptions exist for gross negligence or when certain federal laws like Title IX are violated, and individuals can be sued in their personal capacities.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

If you are a City of Tomball parent with a child attending the University of Houston, or if you are a UH student who suspects hazing:

• Familiarize Yourself with UH Resources: Understand how to properly report hazing directly to the UH Dean of Students Office, through their online forms, or directly to UHPD.
• Document Consistently: Keep meticulous records of all communications, meetings, and disciplinary actions taken by the university. These records are critical if you later pursue civil action.
• Investigate Prior Incidents: While UH’s public reporting may be less extensive than some, be proactive in asking about prior complaints or incidents involving the specific organization in question. A lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases can help to thoroughly investigate prior discipline and internal university files through formal discovery processes if a lawsuit is initiated.
• Connect with Legal Counsel: Contacting an experienced hazing attorney early, before engaging in extensive discussions with university officials or insurance adjusters, is crucial. Our firm is deeply familiar with the legal landscape in Harris County and can provide immediate guidance.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, located in College Station, holds a unique place among Texas institutions, known for its deep-seated traditions, passionate alumni network, and the prominent Corps of Cadets. For City of Tomball families, Texas A&M is a highly sought-after destination for higher education. However, its strong traditions, while often celebrated, can sometimes create an environment ripe for hazing, both within Greek life and other campus organizations.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M is renowned for its spirit, traditions, and the military-structured Corps of Cadets. It has a large and active Greek system, alongside countless student groups and athletic programs. The reverence for tradition, particularly within the Corps, can sometimes blur the lines between character-building rites and harmful hazing. Students from City of Tomball often find themselves immersed in this unique atmosphere.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M has an explicit anti-hazing policy that prohibits all forms of hazing on or off campus by any student, group, or organization aligned with the university. The policy defines hazing broadly, prohibiting abuse or mistreatment that endangers mental or physical health, causes discomfort, or produces shame or humiliation. Reporting channels include the Dean of Student Life, Student Conduct Office, Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD), and an anonymous hotline/online submission form.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Despite strict policies, Texas A&M has faced significant hazing incidents:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Chemical Burns Lawsuit (around 2021): Two pledges of the SAE fraternity at Texas A&M alleged severe hazing during which they were forced to engage in strenuous activity while substances, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, were poured on them. This resulted in agonizing chemical burns that required emergency medical attention and skin graft surgeries. The pledges subsequently sued the fraternity for over $1 million. The SAE chapter was suspended by the university for two years. This case tragically illustrates how modern hazing continues to incorporate dangerous physical and chemical elements.
• Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing within a Corps outfit. The lawsuit described simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth, alongside verbal abuse. The cadet sought over $1 million in damages. Texas A&M, while generally protected by sovereign immunity, stated it handled the matter under its internal rules, underscoring the complexities of addressing hazing in a tradition-heavy institution with unique internal disciplinary systems. This case brought to national attention the shocking extent of hazing within even highly regimented campus organizations.
• Kappa Sigma Rhabdomyolysis Allegations (2023, ongoing): The Kappa Sigma fraternity at Texas A&M faced allegations of hazing that resulted in severe physical injuries, specifically rhabdomyolysis, a dangerous condition where muscle tissue breaks down, releasing harmful proteins into the blood. This type of injury is often linked to extreme and prolonged physical exertion, highlighting the dangerous physical demands sometimes inflicted during hazing. Ongoing litigation seeks to address these specialized injuries.

These incidents highlight the dual challenge of hazing within Texas A&M’s Greek life and its highly traditional Corps of Cadets, where accountability for hazing is often intertwined with preserving long-standing, often unscrutinized, practices.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Tomball families involved in a hazing incident at Texas A&M, understanding the specific context is key:

• Law Enforcement: The Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) would typically investigate incidents on campus. If off-campus, the Bryan or College Station Police Departments or the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office would be involved.
• Civil Litigation: Lawsuits would generally be filed in state district courts in Brazos County. Potential defendants often include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and potentially Texas A&M University itself, especially if claims involve negligent supervision or deliberate indifference to known patterns of hazing. Our Houston-based firm is well-equipped to handle cases across Texas, including Brazos County.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Families from City of Tomball connected to Texas A&M should:

• Understand A&M’s Unique Culture: Be aware of the strong emphasis on tradition, which can sometimes be exploited for hazing purposes within Greek life, the Corps, and other organizations.
• Monitor for Subtle Cues: Due to the “Aggie Code of Honor” and a reluctance to “tattle,” hazing might be reported less often or more subtly. Look for any changes in behavior or secrecy in your child.
• Utilize Reporting Channels: Understand how to confidentially report concerns through A&M’s Student Conduct Office or UPD.
• Seek Legal Counsel Promptly: If hazing is suspected or confirmed, contact an experienced hazing attorney immediately. Our firm has experience with the unique dynamics and legal challenges presented by cases originating from Texas A&M.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution, draws students from all over Texas, including a significant number from City of Tomball and Greater Houston. Its vibrant and expansive student life, including a large Greek system and numerous spirit organizations, has unfortunately also made it a frequent site for hazing incidents.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is a sprawling, academically rigorous university with an incredibly diverse student population and a highly active Greek scene. While known for its academic excellence, its many student organizations, including spirit groups and athletic teams, are also fertile ground for hazing incidents, some of which have garnered significant public attention.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UT Austin maintains a robust anti-hazing policy, prohibiting any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for initiation, affiliation, or membership in an organization. UT’s policy, like state law, explicitly clarifies that future consent cannot be used as a defense. The university encourages reporting through the Office of the Dean of Students, the Office of Student Conduct, the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD), and an anonymous online reporting tool.

One distinctive aspect of UT Austin is its public Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu), which lists organizations, the nature of their violations, and the sanctions imposed. This transparency is a valuable resource for City of Tomball families.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public hazing log provides a detailed, if concerning, history:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) (2023): This chapter was found to have engaged in hazing activities where new members were directed to consume excessive amounts of milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. This behavior aligns with national patterns seen in Pi Kappa Alpha chapters (like the Stone Foltz case). As a result, the chapter was placed on probation and required to implement new hazing prevention education programs.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Assault Case (January 2024): This incident involved an Australian exchange student who alleged severe assault by fraternity members at a party, resulting in significant injuries including a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, a fractured tibia, and a broken nose. A lawsuit against the SAE chapter sought over $1 million. The chapter was already under suspension for previous hazing and safety violations, demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance.
• Texas Wranglers (Spirit Group): This long-standing spirit organization has faced multiple sanctions over the years for hazing violations, including forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices designed to instill subservience.
• Other Greek and Non-Greek Organizations: The UT hazing violations page regularly lists dozens of organizations, both Greek and non-Greek, sanctioned for a wide array of hazing offenses, ranging from alcohol abuse and sleep deprivation to public humiliation and physical intimidation.

This level of transparency, while commendable in some respects, also highlights the persistent and widespread nature of hazing at UT, despite ongoing efforts to combat it.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Tomball families pursuing a hazing claim originating from UT Austin:

• Law Enforcement: The University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) handles incidents on campus, while Austin Police Department (APD) and Travis County Sheriff’s Office would investigate off-campus incidents in and around Austin.
• Civil Litigation: Lawsuits would typically be filed in state district courts in Travis County. The readily available information on UT’s public hazing log can be a powerful tool in civil litigation, demonstrating a pattern of behavior and the university’s prior knowledge of an organization’s history, strengthening claims of negligent supervision or deliberate indifference.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

City of Tomball families with ties to UT Austin should:

• Review the UT Hazing Violations Page: Regularly check hazing.utexas.edu for information on organizations and their disciplinary history before joining or encouraging membership.
• Understand Reporting: Be aware of UT’s clear reporting channels and the support available through the Dean of Students and UTPD.
• Document Thoroughly: If an incident occurs, meticulous documentation is paramount. The clear patterns documented on UT’s public record can serve as foundational evidence for civil claims, making your own evidence collection even more vital.
• Contact a Hazing Attorney: An attorney experienced in Texas hazing litigation, like Attorney911, can navigate UT’s specific policies and leverage the publicly available data to build a strong case.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a distinguished private university in Dallas, caters to a significant number of students from City of Tomball and affluent communities across Texas. Its strong Greek presence and social traditions make it particularly susceptible to hazing, which often occurs off-campus in private residences to avoid direct university oversight.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is known for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and a vibrant, often exclusive, social scene heavily influenced by Greek life. Many students from City of Tomball are drawn to its prestigious programs. The university’s private status, while offering some advantages, also means that disciplinary actions are often less publicly transparent than at state-funded institutions.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU strictly prohibits hazing, defining it as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or continued membership, which places the student at risk of mental or physical harm. SMU’s Student Code of Conduct clearly outlines this prohibition. The university encourages reporting through the Dean of Students Office, Student Conduct & Community Standards, and the SMU Police Department. SMU also utilizes platforms like Real Response, an anonymous reporting tool, to encourage students to come forward.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Hazing at SMU, while often highly publicized locally, may not always result in publicly detailed disciplinary records:

• Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): This case involved allegations that new members of the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity were subjected to paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and severe sleep deprivation. The chapter faced a significant suspension and was restricted from recruiting new members for several years. This incident highlighted the prevalence of traditional physical and alcohol-related hazing at SMU.
• Other Fraternity Suspensions: Over the years, several other fraternities at SMU have faced suspensions or other sanctions for hazing violations, including alcohol abuse, forced servitude, and activities deemed demeaning or physically dangerous. Due to SMU’s private status, specific details of these cases are often not as readily accessible to the public as they might be for state universities, making legal discovery processes even more critical.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For City of Tomball families dealing with hazing at SMU:

• Law Enforcement: Incidents on campus would be handled by the SMU Police Department. Off-campus incidents would fall under the jurisdiction of the Dallas Police Department and the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office.
• Civil Litigation: Lawsuits against SMU or its affiliated organizations would typically be filed in state district courts in Dallas County. As a private institution, SMU generally does not have sovereign immunity protections, potentially making claims against the university more straightforward than against public universities. However, SMU often has substantial legal resources, requiring experienced counsel to navigate.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

For City of Tomball families sending children to SMU:

• Inquire Actively: Due to SMU’s private nature, it’s advisable to directly inquire about an organization’s disciplinary history with the Dean of Students or Greek Life Office before joining, as not all information may be publicly posted.
• Prioritize Safety (Especially Off-Campus): Recognize that many hazing incidents at SMU occur in off-campus houses or private venues. Keep open lines of communication about activities occurring outside official campus boundaries.
• Preserve Evidence: If an incident occurs, meticulous preservation of digital evidence (texts, photos, social media), medical records, and witness information is critical. What may be harder to obtain through public university logs will be sought in a lawsuit through discovery.
• Consult Legal Experts: Engaging a hazing attorney with experience in private university litigation and the Dallas legal landscape is paramount. Our firm understands how to approach private institutions to compel information and seek justice.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Christian university in Waco with strong ties to communities across Texas, including City of Tomball, offers a distinctive campus environment. While its faith-based mission emphasizes community and ethical conduct, Baylor has also faced significant scrutiny over student safety, particularly concerning its handling of sexual assault and other misconduct, which can also extend to hazing.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor, situated in the heart of Texas, is known for its strong Christian identity, robust athletic programs, and close-knit community. Many City of Tomball families are drawn to its academic reputation and values. However, its significant social scene, including Greek life and numerous student organizations, means it is not immune to the challenges of hazing, which can often be overshadowed by other campus issues.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University maintains a strict anti-hazing policy consistent with Texas law, unequivocally prohibiting any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against a student for affiliation or membership purposes that endangers their mental or physical health or safety. Baylor’s policies emphasize consequences for individuals and organizations involved. Students and parents are encouraged to report hazing to the Dean of Students Office, Student Conduct Administration, Baylor Police Department (BUPD), or anonymously through a dedicated ethics and compliance hotline.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor’s history has seen its share of hazing incidents, though often within the broader context of campus safety concerns:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): An investigation into the Baylor baseball program revealed hazing incidents, leading to the suspension of 14 players. These suspensions were strategically staggered over the early part of the baseball season to minimize impact on team performance, raising questions about the university’s prioritization of discipline versus athletic competitiveness. While not directly involving Greek life, this incident underscored that hazing can permeate any high-profile student organization.
• Other Greek Life Incidents: Over the years, individual fraternities and sororities at Baylor have faced suspensions or disciplinary actions for hazing-related offenses including coerced drinking, physical activities, and various forms of intimidation. The private nature of Baylor, similar to SMU, means that comprehensive public records of these disciplinary actions may not be as readily available as they are at state universities, again making a deep investigation essential in any legal case.

These incidents, particularly the baseball hazing, place Baylor’s approach to hazing within its broader historical context of internal investigations and public scrutiny over institutional oversight and student well-being.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For a City of Tomball family navigating a hazing incident at Baylor University:

• Law Enforcement: On-campus incidents would typically be handled by the Baylor Police Department (BUPD). Off-campus incidents would fall under the jurisdiction of the Waco Police Department and the McLennan County District Attorney’s Office.
• Civil Litigation: Lawsuits against Baylor University or its student organizations would generally be filed in state district courts in McLennan County. As a private institution, Baylor does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making the university directly subject to civil claims for negligence, breach of duty, and other causes of action related to hazing. Given Baylor’s prior legal entanglements, it’s accustomed to intense legal scrutiny.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

City of Tomball families with children at Baylor should:

• Engage with Baylor’s Resources: Understand Baylor’s specific policies and reporting mechanisms, which are often communicated through student handbooks and online resources.
• Maintain Open Communication: Emphasize the importance of open communication with your child about any uncomfortable or coercive situations they encounter within a group or team, given the strong community pressures that can exist.
• Investigate Independently: If hazing is suspected, be prepared to investigate beyond official university statements and to actively collect and preserve any available evidence.
• Seek Experienced Legal Counsel: Contacting an attorney with a proven track record in hazing litigation against private universities is critical. Our firm possesses the experience to navigate the complexities of such cases and pursue comprehensive accountability.

6. Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

For City of Tomball families, understanding how individual chapters at Texas universities—like UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor—are connected to their national organizations is crucial. This connection reveals a pattern of hazing that transcends individual campuses and often points to a systemic issue affecting specific fraternities and sororities across the country.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

Most fraternities and sororities active at Texas’s major universities (including chapters of Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi, Kappa Alpha Order, and many others) are components of larger, national (and sometimes international) organizations. These national headquarters are not merely symbolic entities; they are governing bodies that:

• Develop comprehensive anti-hazing manuals and risk management policies.
• Receive dues from members and chapters.
• Often provide training, oversight, and sometimes direct intervention with local chapters.
• Crucially, they often have extensive records of prior hazing incidents, injuries, and even deaths that have occurred at their chapters nationwide.

This history is pivotal. When a Texas chapter—whether at the University of Houston, or Texas A&M, or UT Austin—repeats the same dangerous behaviors that injured or killed students at other chapters in other states, it creates a powerful legal argument of foreseeability. It demonstrates that the national organization not only should have known the risks associated with such acts but also had a pattern of failing to prevent them. This information can significantly strengthen claims of negligence, gross negligence, and even support demands for punitive damages against national entities.

6.2 Organization Mapping: Specific Fraternities and Their National Hazing Histories

Let’s look at some of the prominent fraternities and sororities present at these Texas universities and their nationally documented hazing issues, as these histories can illuminate why accountability is so critical.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity is present at major Texas universities, including the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha has a deeply troubling history with hazing, particularly involving forced alcohol consumption during “Big/Little” events.

  • Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (2021): Stone Foltz died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” pledge night. The family reached a $10 million settlement, with a substantial portion paid by the national fraternity. This case powerfully illustrates the national organization’s liability.
  • David Bogenberger – Northern Illinois University (2012): Another tragic alcohol-related death where a pledge died from poisoning. His family later received a $14 million settlement, indicating the severe and known risks of these types of hazing.
  • Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president at Bowling Green State, was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million to the Foltz family in 2024, demonstrating that individual officers can face massive personal liability as well. These incidents suggest a pattern of conduct that should be known to the national organization, and thus they should be taking steps to prevent similar incidents in chapters across the country, including those that may involve City of Tomball students.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): SAE chapters exist at Texas A&M and UT Austin, and historically at UH. Nationally, SAE has been involved in multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries, leading the national organization to famously (and controversially) ban pledging in 2014, though this has proven difficult to enforce.

  • Texas A&M University – Chemical Burns Case (2021): Two pledges alleged being covered in industrial-strength cleaner, eggs, and spit, resulting in severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts. The pledges sued for $1 million. This incident, described earlier for Texas A&M, highlights how some chapters continue to engage in egregious physical abuse despite national policies.
  • University of Alabama – Traumatic Brain Injury Case (filed 2023): A lawsuit was filed against SAE alleging a pledge suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual. This indicates the severe, long-term harm often caused by physical hazing.
  • University of Texas at Austin – Assault Case (2024): As discussed, an exchange student was allegedly assaulted by SAE members, resulting in significant injuries. The chapter was already under suspension for prior violations, indicating a pattern of disregard for rules.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): This fraternity has chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU. Its national history includes one of the most high-profile hazing deaths.

  • Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University (2017): Max Gruver died from alcohol poisoning after participating in a forced drinking game. His death directly led to Louisiana’s felony hazing statute, the Max Gruver Act, and a $6.1 million verdict against key members (plus confidential settlements from others). The national organization and its chapters, including those in Texas, have been on notice about the extreme dangers of such “drinking games” for years.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Present at UH and Texas A&M.

  • Andrew Coffey – Florida State University (2017): As discussed, Andrew Coffey died from alcohol poisoning at a “Big Brother Night.” His death triggered temporary suspensions of Greek life and a statewide anti-hazing movement in Florida. The pattern of excessive, forced alcohol consumption on “big/little” nights is a national tragedy that should inform all chapters and their national bodies.

• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ): Chapters at Texas A&M and SMU.

  • SMU Hazing Incident (2017): The national organization has faced suspensions at various campuses, including SMU, for hazing violations involving paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation.
  • This pattern often indicates a disconnect between national policies and local chapter practices.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor. This organization also has a history of severe hazing incidents.

  • College of Charleston (2024): A staggering outcome where a family received more than $10 million in damages for severe hazing allegations including physical beatings, forced substance consumption, and psychological torment. This is one of the largest known hazing settlements, underscoring that juries are willing to award substantial sums for serious harm.
  • University of Texas at Arlington (2020): A pledge was hospitalized with alcohol poisoning from hazing. A lawsuit alleging negligent supervision and lack of risk management settled in 2021.

• Lambda Phi Epsilon (ΛΦΕ): Present at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin. This multicultural fraternity has faced scrutiny for hazing involving physical endurance tests.

  • Kenny Luong – University of California, Irvine (2005): A pledge died after being tackled during a football game as part of a hazing ritual, highlighting the dangers of physical hazing.
  • The national organization has been associated with multiple hazing-related injuries and deaths across other campuses as well.

• Kappa Sigma (KΣ): Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor.

  • Chad Meredith – University of Miami (2001): Chad Meredith drowned after being persuaded by fraternity members to swim across a lake with a high blood alcohol level. A jury awarded his parents a $12.6 million verdict in a negligence suit, establishing a powerful precedent and leading to Texas criminal hazing laws.
  • Texas A&M University (2023, ongoing): As mentioned, allegations of hazing resulting in severe rhabdomyolysis injuries are currently in litigation, emphasizing the continuous physical dangers.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

These recurring patterns and national incidents are not merely historical footnotes; they are critical components of a successful legal strategy for City of Tomball families seeking justice:

• Proving Foreseeability: When a fraternity chapter at a Texas university engages in hazing that mirrors incidents for which its national organization has faced past lawsuits or disciplinary actions, it creates a powerful argument that the national entity should have foreseen the potential for harm and failed in its duty to prevent it.
• Challenging the “Rogue Chapter” Defense: National organizations frequently attempt to distance themselves from local chapter misconduct by claiming it was an isolated incident or “rogue” behavior. However, a history of similar incidents across multiple chapters effectively discredits this defense, demonstrating a systemic problem that the national office was aware of or should have been aware of.
• Driving Accountability: Highlighting a national organization’s repeated failures reinforces that their anti-hazing policies are often “paper policies” – they exist on paper but are not genuinely enforced. This can increase settlement leverage and, in appropriate cases, bolster claims for punitive damages, which are designed to punish egregious conduct and deter future harm.
• Insurance Coverage: Understanding the national history helps anticipate and counter arguments from insurance companies who might attempt to deny coverage based on “intentional acts”exclusions. An experienced attorney can demonstrate that the failure to supervise or to act on prior knowledge is a form of negligence, which can trigger insurance coverage.

Knowing the national history of these organizations is not just about recounting past tragedies; it’s about building a robust case for accountability that resonates with judges and juries, ensuring that the lessons of the past are finally applied to protect students from City of Tomball and across Texas.

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Successfully pursuing a hazing claim, whether in City of Tomball, Houston, or anywhere in Texas, requires meticulous investigation, a deep understanding of legal strategy, and the ability to leverage all available evidence. This is not a simple personal injury case; it involves powerful institutions and complex dynamics.

7.1 Evidence: The Cornerstone of a Hazing Case

Modern hazing cases are often won or lost based on the quality and breadth of digital and corroborating evidence. The defense will typically deny, deflect, or attempt to minimize the incident, making evidence preservation a race against time.

• Digital Communications: This is often the most critical category of evidence in today’s hazing cases.

  • Group Messaging Apps: Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage/SMS group chats, Discord, Telegram, and even fraternity-specific apps are central to planning, executing, and covering up hazing. Messages can reveal who organized the event, specified hazing tasks, issued threats for non-compliance, or even acknowledged injuries.
  • Social Media: Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter/X can contain posts, stories, photos, or videos of hazing in progress, visible injuries, or incriminating comments. Geotags can confirm locations. Our team works with digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages and posts, but original screenshots taken immediately by victims or witnesses are invaluable.
  • Text Messages/DMs: Direct messages between new members, or from older members, often contain explicit instructions, threats, or pleas for help. These must be preserved in their entirety with timestamps.

• Photos & Videos: Beyond what’s shared in chats, personal photos or videos taken by members, or even surveillance footage, can be damning. This includes:

  • Injuries: Detailed photos of bruises, burns, cuts, or other physical harm, taken from multiple angles and over several days to show progression (e.g., how a bruise darkens).
  • Locations: Photos or videos of the house, specific rooms, or off-campus venues where hazing occurred, particularly if the environment itself was dangerous or unsanitary.
  • Hazing in Progress: Any visual evidence of forced activities, excessive drinking, physical abuse, or humiliating acts. This can be challenging to obtain, but powerful if available.

• Internal Organization Documents: These crucial documents often expose the true nature of an organization’s “traditions” versus its stated policies. This includes:

  • Pledge Manuals/Initiation Scripts: Written or unwritten guides that outline required activities for new members.
  • Emails/Texts from Officers: Communications planning events, discussing “pledges,” or giving coded instructions.
  • National Policies/Training Materials: These show what the national organization claims its policies are, allowing us to highlight discrepancies with actual practice. Through the discovery process in a lawsuit in Texas, these documents can be compelled, even from reluctant national organizations headquartered out of state.

• University Records: Your child’s college, whether the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, has records that can be critical.

  • Prior Conduct Files: Disciplinary actions, probations, or suspensions against the specific chapter or individuals. UT Austin’s public hazing log is a great example of this transparency.
  • Incident Reports: Records from campus police (like UTPD or UHPD) or student conduct offices.
  • Clery Act Reports: Public annual safety reports that may contain underlying crimes related to hazing.
  • Internal Communications: Emails among administrators about the organization, which can sometimes reveal knowledge of systemic issues (these are obtained through formal discovery if a lawsuit is filed).

• Medical and Psychological Records: These records quantify the physical and emotional toll of hazing.

  • Emergency Room/Hospital Records: Documenting immediate injuries, treatments, and toxicology results (e.g., blood alcohol levels, drug screens).
  • Ongoing Treatment: Records from physical therapy, surgeries, specialist visits.
  • Mental Health Evaluations: Documentation from psychologists or psychiatrists diagnosing conditions like PTSD, major depressive disorder, anxiety, or suicidal ideation. These are crucial for demonstrating non-economic damages.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are often essential, especially when other evidence is limited.

  • Other Pledges/Members: While many may initially be reluctant due to fear of retaliation, their testimony can be invaluable.
  • Roommates, RAs, Coaches: Individuals who observed changes in behavior, injuries, or odd activity patterns.
  • Bystanders/Third Parties: Anyone who saw elements of the hazing, including at off-campus venues.

7.2 Damages: Recovering from the Harm

When hazing leaves lifelong scars, victims and their families in City of Tomball and across Texas can seek compensation for a range of damages, aimed at making them whole again and holding wrongdoers accountable.

• Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

  • Medical Bills & Future Care: This includes all past medical expenses (ER visits, ambulance, hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy) and projections for future care, especially for catastrophic injuries. For victims like Danny Santulli, requiring 24/7 care for life, these costs are astronomical.
  • Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Compensation for lost wages (for parents taking time off to care for a child, or for the student if they miss work), lost scholarships, tuition fees for missed semesters, and diminished future earning capacity if the hazing results in permanent disability or psychological trauma affecting their ability to work.

• Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Losses, but Legally Compensable):

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: This accounts for the actual physical pain from injuries, ongoing discomfort, and the long-term impact on physical abilities.
  • Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm: This covers conditions like PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, humiliation, shame, loss of dignity, and the profound trauma inflicted by hazing. The City of Tomball community knows the importance of mental health, and these harms are taken very seriously by courts.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: This compensates for the inability to participate in activities once enjoyed, withdrawal from social life, damage to relationships, and the overall diminishment of quality of life due to the hazing.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): If hazing tragically results in a death, surviving family members (parents, spouse, children) can recover substantial damages:

  • Funeral and Burial Costs.
  • Loss of Financial Support: If the deceased would have contributed financially to the family.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Society: The profound grief and intangible loss of having their loved one taken too soon.
  • Grief and Emotional Suffering: For the surviving family members who endure the unimaginable loss.

• Punitive Damages: In cases where defendants acted with extreme recklessness, malice, or gross negligence, courts or juries in Texas may award punitive damages. These are not meant to compensate the victim, but to punish the wrongdoers and deter others from similar conduct. Punitive damages are often sought when there’s a clear pattern of ignored warnings, deliberate cover-ups, or callous indifference to known risks—all common in hazing cases against national fraternities and negligent universities.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Navigating the complexities of multiple defendants and insurance policies is where experienced legal counsel becomes indispensable.

• Multiple Defendants: Civil hazing lawsuits often involve individual students, local chapter entities, the national fraternity/sorority, and the university. Each defendant may bring their own legal team and insurance coverage, requiring a coordinated strategy.
• Insurance Battles: National fraternities and universities typically carry substantial liability insurance policies. However, their insurers will often attempt to deny coverage by arguing that hazing, especially “intentional acts” or criminal behavior, falls under policy exclusions. This is a common tactic.
  • Our firm, with Attorney Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge as a former insurance defense attorney, knows precisely how these insurance companies operate. We can effectively challenge their attempts to deny coverage and force them to defend or settle. We argue that even if the hazing was intentional, the national organization’s or university’s negligent supervision or failure to act on prior warnings constitutes a covered claim.

Building a powerful hazing case requires an attorney who is not only a skilled litigator but also an expert investigator, capable of piecing together disparate evidence, challenging sophisticated legal defenses, and presenting a compelling narrative of neglect and harm.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

For City of Tomball families, understanding the warning signs of hazing and knowing how to respond is critical. This section provides immediate, actionable advice for parents, students, and even former members or witnesses.

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

The fear that your child might be hazed is profound. Knowing what to look for and what steps to take can empower you to protect them.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be attuned to changes in your child’s physical appearance, behavior, academics, finances, or digital habits.
  • Physical Signs: Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or “accident” stories that don’t add up. Constant exhaustion, extreme fatigue, or sudden weight changes. Signs of sleep deprivation or alcohol/drug use. Severe injuries like rhabdomyolysis from extreme exercise should raise immediate alarms.
  • Behavioral/Emotional Changes: Sudden secrecy about group activities (“I can’t talk about it”). Withdrawal from family or old friends. Increased anxiety, irritability, depression, or anger. Defensiveness when asked about the organization. Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down.”
  • Academic Red Flags: Unexpected drop in grades, missing classes, falling asleep in class, or prioritizing group activities over studying.
  • Financial Changes: Unexpected requests for money without clear explanation, large expenses for the group, or buying excessive alcohol.
  • Digital Behavior: Constant monitoring of group chats, anxiety when the phone pings, quickly deleting messages, or installing geo-location tracking apps upon joining a group.
• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation with empathy, not judgment. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with X organization? Is anything making you uncomfortable?” Reassure them that their safety and well-being are your top priorities, far above any group affiliation. Emphasize that you will support them, no matter what.
• If Your Child Is Hurt: Prioritize medical care immediately. Do not delay. As discussed, document everything: take clear photos of injuries, screenshot any relevant messages, and write down exactly what your child tells you, including dates and times.
• Dealing with the University: Every communication with university administrators should be meticulously documented. Ask direct questions about prior incidents involving the specific organization and what actions the school took. Be aware that university investigations, while necessary, may prioritize institutional reputation over full victim compensation.
• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing what happened, it’s time to consult with an attorney experienced in hazing cases. Early legal intervention can preserve critical evidence and protect your child’s rights before it’s too late.

8.2 For Students / Pledges: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

If you’re a student from City of Tomball who is questioning group activities at a Texas university, your feelings are valid. You are not alone.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition?: Ask yourself: Am I being forced to do something I wouldn’t do freely? Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal? Would the university or my parents approve if they knew? Are older members making me do things they don’t have to do? Am I being told to keep secrets? If the answer is “yes” to any of these, it’s likely hazing. Tradition should never involve humiliation, danger, or coercion.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: Groups often try to justify hazing by saying “everyone agrees to it.” But in environments with intense peer pressure, a strong desire to belong, and fear of social exclusion, your “agreement” is often coerced. Texas law (Education Code § 37.155) explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing, recognizing that your choice is often not truly free.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the legal right to leave any group or de-pledge at any time. If you feel unsafe, tell a trusted adult outside the organization first (parent, RA, academic advisor). You can report hazing anonymously through campus hotlines or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293). If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and Texas law have policies that offer protections or amnesty to students who call for help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or other violations were involved. Your safety and the safety of others always come first.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses: A Path to Accountability

If you were once a part of hazing, either as a participant or a witness, and now carry guilt or fear, you have a crucial role to play in preventing future tragedies.

• Prevent Future Harm: Your testimony and evidence could be the key to preventing another student from City of Tomball or elsewhere from suffering severe injury or death. Coming forward, however difficult, can save lives.
• Seek Legal Counsel for Yourself: If you have concerns about your own legal exposure, it is wise to seek legal advice. Our criminal defense experience, alongside our hazing litigation, means we can advise on both criminal exposure and civil liability for witnesses and former members who wish to cooperate.
• Cooperation is Powerful: While daunting, cooperating with investigations or lawsuits can be an important step toward accountability for past wrongs and finding some degree of personal peace.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

In the emotional turmoil following a hazing incident, it is easy to make missteps that can inadvertently damage a potential legal claim. City of Tomball families must be aware of these common pitfalls. Watch Attorney911’s video on client mistakes that can ruin your case at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

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

   • What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble,” or “This content is embarrassing.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Deliberately destroying evidence can appear to be a cover-up, which can lead to legal penalties and effectively eliminate your ability to prove your case. It is nearly impossible to proceed without this crucial evidence.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even if it seems embarrassing or incriminating. Screenshots, photos, and saved messages are invaluable. Our video on using your phone to document legal cases (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides essential guidance.

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority or Individuals Directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind and demand answers.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Confrontation immediately puts the organization and its members on alert. They will immediately “lawyer up,” destroy evidence, coach witnesses on what to say (or not say), and prepare their defense.
   • What to do instead: Document everything in private, then contact an attorney before any direct confrontation. Your attorney can guide strategic communication.

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms Without Legal Review:

   • What universities do: They may pressure families into signing waivers, confidentiality agreements, or “internal resolution” forms, sometimes offering minimal compensation or benefits.
   • Why it’s wrong: You could inadvertently waive your fundamental legal right to pursue a lawsuit. These settlements are often far below the actual value of your case and prioritize the university’s interests over yours.
   • What to do instead: Never sign any document from the university or an insurance company without having an experienced attorney review it thoroughly beforehand.

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

   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened to my child and warn others.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys actively monitor social media. Any posts or comments can be screenshotted and used against you, potentially creating inconsistencies, damaging your credibility, or inadvertently making sensitive information public that could harm your child’s privacy or legal strategy.
   • What to do instead: Document incidents privately. Allow your legal team to control any public messaging to ensure it supports, rather than harms, your case.

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

   • What fraternities/sororities say: “Just come talk to us before you do anything drastic” or “You owe us an explanation.”
   • Why it’s wrong: These meetings are often designed to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can be used to undermine your child’s credibility or cast doubt on the hazing claims.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication from the organization should be directed to your attorney. Your child should not attend any meetings or engage with members without legal counsel.

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

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally according to our procedures.”
   • Why it’s wrong: While universities must investigate, their process is often slow, opaque, and primarily focused on internal discipline, not victim compensation or deep accountability. Crucially, evidence disappears, witnesses graduate and disperse, and the statute of limitations continues to run. The university’s internal process is simply not the same as a robust legal pursuit.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW. Consult a lawyer immediately to understand your legal timelines (watch our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c). Pursuing civil action moves much faster and aims for different outcomes than the university’s disciplinary process.

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim quickly and fairly.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Recorded statements are often designed to lock you into an early narrative that minimizes damages, and their initial settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to talk to any insurance adjuster. Inform them that your attorney will contact them.

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and UT Austin) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, certain statutory violations, and when suing individual employees in their personal capacity. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on its specific facts. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. While hazing generally starts as a Class B misdemeanor in Texas, it escalates to a state jail felony if the act causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers or members who fail to report known hazing can also face criminal charges.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing charges or a civil claim. Courts recognize that “agreement” under intense peer pressure, the fear of social exclusion, and significant power imbalances is not true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”
  Generally, there is a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death in Texas personal injury and wrongful death cases. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this period if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately apparent. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be “tolled” (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations destroy records. Do not delay; call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of the hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge of prior incidents, and foreseeability of off-campus hazing. Many major hazing cases that resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments, such as the Pi Delta Psi retreat case (Michael Deng) and the Sigma Pi “unofficial” house case (Collin Wiant), occurred off-campus.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Many hazing cases are resolved through confidential settlements before a public trial. While we prioritize full accountability, we also strive to protect your family’s privacy where possible, which can include requesting sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We will discuss your privacy concerns in detail during your consultation.

9. About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action for City of Tomball Families

When your family faces a hazing case in Texas, whether your child attends the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or another institution, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who intimately understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911 and proudly known as the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, we bring an unparalleled combination of specific expertise, aggressive advocacy, and deep empathy to hazing litigation.

From our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families across the entire state of Texas, including those in City of Tomball, Spring, The Woodlands, Cypress, and throughout Harris County. We understand that hazing at Texas universities profoundly impacts families in City of Tomball and across the region, and we are dedicated to securing justice for them.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases?

Our firm comprises attorneys with unique qualifications that make us particularly effective in hazing and campus abuse cases:

• Insurance Insider Advantage with Lupe Peña: Our Associate Attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable experience as a former insurance defense attorney for a national firm. She knows the insurance industry’s playbook inside and out—including how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and often undervalue) hazing claims, their delay tactics, strategies for asserting coverage exclusions, and their settlement patterns. “We know their playbook because we used to run it,” and this insider perspective is a distinct advantage for our clients. Lupe Peña’s full credentials are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions with Ralph Manginello: Our Managing Partner, Ralph Manginello, is a seasoned litigator with over 25 years of experience. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the historic BP Texas City explosion litigation, which required extensive federal court experience and the ability to take on massive corporations with seemingly unlimited resources. This background means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, powerful universities, or their well-funded defense teams. “We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won. We know how to fight powerful defendants,” Ralph often states. His comprehensive experience in federal court and complex, multi-party litigation positions us perfectly to handle the most challenging hazing cases. You can review Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials and case history at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record of securing multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts in complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We work with leading economists, life care planners, and medical experts to fully value the long-term impact of a hazing injury, from lifetime medical needs for brain injury victims to the profound loss of companionship in wrongful death cases. “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.” Our experience in wrongful death claims is detailed at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.

• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph Manginello’s membership in the prestigious Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a distinct advantage. We understand the intricate ways criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation, allowing us to advise witnesses and former members facing dual exposure while pursuing civil justice for the victims. Our criminal defense capabilities are further detailed at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.

• Investigative Depth and Modern Techniques: Hazing cases are highly evidence-driven. We leverage a network of experts, including digital forensics specialists, to unearth hidden evidence like deleted group chats, social media content, and university files. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it truly does.

We understand not just the legal statutes but also the intricate social dynamics of Greek culture, Corps programs, and athletic departments. We know how to expose the truth behind the “traditions,” how to prove coercion, and how to balance your family’s desire for privacy with the critical need for public accountability. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face, and we approach each case with compassion, thoroughness, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

Call to Action for City of Tomball Families: Seek Justice and Accountability

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether it’s the University of Houston in our backyard, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other institution—we want to hear from you. Families in City of Tomball, The Woodlands, Spring, Cypress, and throughout Harris County, as well as across the entire state of Texas, have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options under Texas law, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family. We are here to help remove the financial barrier to justice; watch our video explaining contingency fees and how they work at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

What to expect in your free and confidential consultation:

• We will listen to your story without judgment and with genuine empathy.
• 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 you can expect during the legal process.
• We will answer all your questions about our contingency fee structure – meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
• There is absolutely no pressure to hire us on the spot; we encourage you to take the time needed to make the right decision for your family.
• Everything you share with us is protected by attorney-client confidentiality.

Do not let fear or intimidation prevent you from seeking justice. Hazing incidents must be brought to light to protect future students.

Call Attorney911 today for immediate guidance.

• Call Toll-Free: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct Line: (713) 528-9070
• Cell: (713) 443-4781 (For immediate emergencies)
• Firm Website: https://attorney911.com
• Email Ralph Manginello: ralph@atty911.com

Hablamos Español. For consultation in Spanish, please contact Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

Whether you’re in City of Tomball 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