In Upshur County, our Fraternity & Sorority Hazing Lawyers at Attorney911 — Legal Emergency Lawyers™ offer unparalleled legal support. With 25+ years of experience and former insurance defense insights, we handle University Hazing Injury & Wrongful Death cases. Our federal court experience against national fraternities and universities, proven by BP Explosion litigation, demonstrates our ability to fight massive institutions. We possess HCCLA Criminal Defense + Civil Wrongful Death expertise and have secured Multi-Million Dollar Results in cases involving UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor. We are Evidence Preservation Specialists. Hablamos Español. Free Consultation. Contingency Fee: No Win, No Fee. Call 1-888-ATTY-911.

When Tradition Turns Toxic: A Comprehensive Guide to Hazing in Texas for Upshur County Families

The crisp Texas autumn air signals new beginnings for students across our state. For many families in Upshur County – from Gilmer to Big Sandy, Gladewater to Ore City – this means sons and daughters heading off to college, excited by the promise of education, independence, and the vibrant campus life. They envision challenging classes, lifelong friendships, and enriching experiences. Yet, for some, the lure of belonging to a fraternity, sorority, athletic team, or other campus organization can quickly turn into a nightmare of forced drinking, physical abuse, and profound psychological trauma.

Imagine this scenario: It’s well past midnight, deep in the heart of a Texas university town familiar to many Upshur County residents, perhaps just a few hours’ drive from your own home. Your child, a bright and eager freshman, is blindfolded in a sweltering garage, surrounded by older students he thought were becoming his brothers or sisters. He’s being pressured to drink far beyond safe limits, yelled at, and forced to perform degrading acts while others chant and record on their phones. Someone collapses, vomiting uncontrollably, but the call to 911 is delayed—fear of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble” outweighing a fellow student’s safety. Loyalty to the group clashes violently with the instinct for self-preservation.

This isn’t a scene from a movie; it’s a tragically common reality that many Texas families face. This could happen at any Texas university—including schools where Upshur County families send their children, from the sprawling campuses of Austin and College Station to the urban heart of Houston, or the private institutions of Dallas and Waco.

This comprehensive guide is designed for Upshur County families and individuals throughout Texas who need to understand the dark truth about modern hazing. We will explore:

• What hazing truly looks like in 2025, far beyond mere pranks.
• The precise legal framework for hazing in Texas and how federal laws also apply.
• Crucial lessons from major national hazing cases and their direct relevance to Texas families.
• The troubling patterns and documented incidents at some of our state’s largest universities: the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University.
• What legal avenues and options are available to victims and their families in Upshur County and across Texas.

Please remember, this article provides general information and should not be considered specific legal advice. Every hazing incident is unique, and only a direct consultation with an experienced attorney can address your family’s particular circumstances. However, The Manginello Law Firm serves families throughout Texas, including Upshur County and its surrounding communities, and we are here to help you navigate these complex challenges.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 911 for medical emergencies, without hesitation. Their safety is paramount.
  • Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We provide immediate help in legal emergencies—that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

• In the first 48 hours:

  • Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.” Injuries, especially those related to alcohol poisoning or physical abuse, may not be immediately apparent.
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
    • Screenshot all group chats, texts, and direct messages (DMs) immediately. Digital evidence vanishes quickly.
    • Photograph any visible injuries from multiple angles and under different lighting conditions.
    • Save any physical items like clothing worn during the hazing, receipts for forced purchases, or potentially even objects used in the hazing.
  • Write down everything while memory is fresh: who was involved, what exactly happened, when and where it occurred, and any specific details.
  • Do NOT:
    • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly. This can lead to evidence destruction or coached witnesses.
    • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal counsel. You could inadvertently waive critical rights.
    • Post details on public social media. This can compromise your case and open your child to further scrutiny.
    • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” any evidence. This can be viewed as obstruction.

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

  • Evidence disappears incredibly fast. Group chats are deleted, physical objects vanish, and witnesses can be pressured into silence.
  • Universities and organizations move quickly to control the narrative and conduct internal “investigations” that may not serve your child’s best interest.
  • We can help preserve crucial evidence, protect your child’s rights, and prevent mistakes that could compromise a future legal claim.
  • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For many Upshur County residents, the word “hazing” might conjure images from movies – a harmless prank, a forced haircut, or mild embarrassment. Yet, in 2025, modern hazing is far more insidious, dangerous, and psychologically damaging than these outdated stereotypes suggest. It’s behavior shrouded in secrecy, fueled by groupthink, and often involves extreme physical and emotional abuse that can, and frequently does, lead to serious injury or death.

Hazing is not simply “tradition” or “bonding.” It is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to the process of joining, maintaining membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits an individual. It thrives on a power imbalance, making the idea of “consent” largely irrelevant when individuals face immense peer pressure and fear of exclusion.

Main Categories of Modern Hazing

Modern hazing takes many forms, often combining elements of physical, psychological, and digital abuse to break down individuals and enforce conformity.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is, by far, the most prevalent and deadliest form of hazing. It involves:

  • Forced or coerced drinking: Requiring pledges to consume large quantities of alcohol in short periods, often during so-called “initiation” nights, “Big/Little” reveals, or “family tree” events.
  • Chugging challenges and “lineups”: Pledges are forced to rapidly consume various forms of alcohol.
  • Games that require rapid consumption: “Drink-until-you-puke” games or “trivia” where incorrect answers mandate excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Being pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances: This can include dangerous cocktails or even illicit drugs.

• Physical Hazing: These acts typically inflict bodily harm or extreme discomfort and can include:

  • Paddling and beatings: Deliberate physical assaults, sometimes with objects.
  • Extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings”: Prolonged or dangerous physical exertion that goes far beyond normal athletic conditioning, often leading to rhabdomyolysis or other severe injuries.
  • Sleep deprivation: Mandatory late-night activities, early morning wake-up calls, or multiple consecutive days with minimal sleep.
  • Food/water deprivation: Limiting access to basic necessities, sometimes forcing consumption of unpleasant or spoiled food.
  • Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments: Forcing individuals outdoors in harsh weather, in unventilated spaces, or locations with known hazards.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These tactics aim to strip individuals of their dignity and can be deeply traumatizing:

  • Forced nudity or partial nudity: Requiring individuals to be unclothed or semi-clothed in front of others.
  • Simulated sexual acts: Forcing participants to engage in degrading acts, often with offensive names like “roasted pig” or “elephant walk.”
  • Wearing degrading costumes: Being compelled to wear demeaning attire in public or private settings.
  • Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones: Using slurs, stereotypes, or role-playing that targets specific groups.

• Psychological Hazing: This form of hazing attacks an individual’s mental and emotional well-being:

  • Verbal abuse, threats, and isolation: Constant yelling, insults, intimidation, or cutting off individuals from outside contact.
  • Manipulation or forced confessions: Coercing individuals to reveal personal information or secrets.
  • Public shaming: Humiliating individuals in front of others, sometimes disguised as “roasts” or “grilling” sessions.
  • Deception and secrecy oaths: Requiring pledges to lie to parents, university officials, or external authorities about their activities.

• Digital/Online Hazing: With the pervasive use of technology, hazing has evolved into the digital realm:

  • Group chat dares and “challenges”: Orchestrating humiliating acts or dangerous stunts through platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord, Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok.
  • Public humiliation via social media: Forcing individuals to post embarrassing content, participate in demeaning trends, or share compromising images/videos.
  • Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos: Using technology to document and exploit hazing victims.
  • 24/7 digital control: Constant monitoring, demands for immediate responses at all hours, and threats for non-compliance via group chats.
  • Geo-tracking/location sharing: Requiring pledges to share their live location, creating a pervasive sense of surveillance.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

It’s a common misconception that hazing is exclusively a “fraternity problem.” While Greek life often makes headlines, hazing is a systemic issue that infects a wide range of organizations across various types of institutions where Upshur County students may attend colleges and universities.

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes social Greek letter organizations (Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek groups).
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: The tradition-heavy, hierarchical structures of these organizations can sometimes lead to harmful “initiations” or “character-building” exercises that cross into hazing.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs, and Campus Groups: Organizations like the Texas Cowboys or other student-led groups with long-standing traditions can fall prey to hazing, where the desire to uphold the “old ways” overshadows safety and respect.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to cheerleading and track, hazing occurs across athletic programs at all levels, sometimes disguised as “team building” or “strengthening” exercises.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly harmless artistic or performance groups can engage in hazing practices under the guise of fostering camaraderie or discipline.
• Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any group where status, bonding, and exclusivity are valued can become a breeding ground for hazing, especially if new member activities are cloaked in secrecy.

The disturbing reality is that social status, the allure of tradition, and the pervasive culture of secrecy often allow these destructive practices to persist, even when participants “know” hazing is against policy and illegal. For Upshur County families unfamiliar with the inner workings of modern college organizations, understanding these diverse forms and locations of hazing is the first step toward prevention and protection.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Battling hazing requires understanding the legal landscape that governs these incidents. In Texas, a clear framework exists to define, criminalize, and prosecute hazing. Additionally, federal laws can provide further avenues for accountability against universities. For Upshur County families whose children attend college anywhere in Texas, knowing these legal pathways is crucial.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

The State of Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions primarily outlined in the Texas Education Code – Chapter 37, Subchapter F. These laws are designed to protect students and hold individuals and organizations accountable.

Under Texas law—which governs cases in Upshur County and across the state—hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

In simple terms, if someone makes a student engage in an activity that is dangerous, harmful, humiliating, or degrading to join or remain a part of a group, and they were either very a) deliberate, b) knowledgeable of the harm, or c) careless about the likely risk of harm, that is hazing under Texas law.

Key points of Texas Hazing Law (Texas Education Code § 37.151, § 37.155):

• Location is irrelevant: Hazing can happen on or off campus, in official or unofficial settings. The law applies regardless of the physical location.
• Harm can be mental or physical: Hazing isn’t just about broken bones; severe psychological trauma is equally recognized as harm.
• Intent doesn’t require malice: The act of hazing doesn’t have to be malicious. “Reckless” conduct—meaning the person knew the risk and disregarded it—is enough to meet the legal definition.
• “Consent” is not a defense: As explicitly stated in Texas Education Code § 37.155, it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the activity. Courts and the law recognize that “consent” given under duress, immense peer pressure, or fear of social exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

Criminal Penalties (Texas Education Code § 37.152):

Texas hazing law carries significant criminal consequences:

• Class B Misdemeanor (standard): For most hazing incidents that do not result in serious injury, offenders can face up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes bodily injury that requires medical treatment.
• State Jail Felony: If the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. This carries substantial jail time and felony convictions.

Additionally, individuals (including officers or members of an organization) who fail to report a hazing incident they knew about, or who retaliate against someone who reports hazing, can also face misdemeanor charges.

Organizational Liability (Texas Education Code § 37.153):

The law also holds organizations accountable. Fraternities, sororities, clubs, and sports teams can be criminally prosecuted for hazing if:

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

Penalties for organizations can include fines of up to $10,000 per violation, and universities can revoke recognition or ban the organization from campus. This is critical for Upshur County families to understand: both individuals and the organizations they belong to can face criminal consequences.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (Texas Education Code § 37.154):

To encourage reporting, Texas law provides some protections. A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university authorities or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise arise from their report. Furthermore, in medical emergencies, Texas law and many university policies often grant amnesty to students who call 911 for help, even if they were underage drinking or otherwise involved in the hazing. This aims to prioritize saving lives over punishing minor infractions.

Criminal vs. Civil Hazing Cases

It is important for Upshur County families to distinguish between criminal and civil legal actions related to hazing. These two types of cases serve different purposes and have different thresholds for proof.

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (through a district attorney or prosecutor) against individuals or organizations accused of violating hazing laws or other related criminal statutes (e.g., assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter). The goal of a criminal case is to punish offenders through fines, jail time, or probation. The state must prove guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt”—a very high legal standard.

• Civil Cases: These lawsuits are filed by victims of hazing or their surviving family members (plaintiffs) against individuals, the local chapter, the national organization, the university, or other responsible parties (defendants). The primary goal of a civil case is to obtain monetary compensation (damages) for the harm suffered and to hold responsible parties accountable. The burden of proof in a civil case is typically “a preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it is more likely than not that the defendant is responsible—a lower standard than in criminal cases.

A critical point: a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Many civil hazing lawsuits are successful even if criminal charges were never filed or resulted in acquittals, because the legal standards and goals are different.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also impact how hazing is addressed, particularly concerning universities that receive federal funding.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal student aid must enhance their hazing prevention and reporting efforts. By approximately 2026, these institutions will be required to:

  • Publicly report all hazing incidents.
  • Implement more robust hazing education programs.
  • Maintain publicly accessible data on hazing violations.
    This act aims to increase transparency and accountability across campuses nationwide, providing Upshur County families with more information to make informed decisions about their children’s safety.

• Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a sexually hostile environment, Title IX obligations are triggered. Universities have a duty to investigate and respond promptly and effectively to such allegations, regardless of whether the hazing occurs on or off campus.

• 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 not directly aimed at hazing, many hazing incidents involve criminal activity such as assault, sexual assault, or alcohol/drug violations, which fall under Clery reporting requirements. This means hazing incidents may—and should—be included in a university’s annual security report, providing another data point for families.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

For Upshur County families, understanding the web of potential defendants in a civil hazing lawsuit is crucial. Accountability for hazing often extends far beyond the individual students directly involved.

• Individual Students: Those who planned, encouraged, supplied substances, inflicted harm, or engaged in cover-up efforts.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself, particularly if it operated as a collective entity that sanctioned or ignored the hazing. Officers or “pledge educators” who orchestrate or supervise hazing activities are often key defendants.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters can be held liable if it failed to adequately supervise its local chapter, enforce its own anti-hazing policies, or address known patterns of hazing within its organization despite prior incidents at other campuses.
• University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself may be sued under various theories, including:
  • Negligence/Gross Negligence: For failing to adequately supervise, warn, or protect students, especially if the university had prior knowledge of hazing within a specific organization.
  • Negligent Supervision/Retention: If advisors, coaches, or staff knew or should have known about hazing and did nothing to stop it.
  • Premises Liability: If the hazing occurred on university property and the school failed in its duty to maintain asafe environment.
  • Violations of Title IX (where applicable): For allowing a sexually hostile environment to persist.
  • Contractual Breaches: If the university failed to uphold promises made to students regarding safety and anti-hazing policies.
• Third Parties: This can include:
  • Landlords/Property Owners: Of off-campus houses or venues where hazing occurred, especially if they knew or should have known about dangerous activities.
  • Alcohol Vendors/Bars: Under “dram shop laws” if they served alcohol to minors or visibly intoxicated individuals who then engaged in hazing.
  • Event Organizers or Security Companies: If they failed in their duty to ensure safety at an event where hazing took place.

Determining liability is complex and highly fact-specific. Not every party is liable in every situation. However, the breadth of potential defendants highlights that accountability for hazing is a shared responsibility, and skilled legal counsel can help identify all responsible parties.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragic reality of hazing in America is that many incidents follow predictable patterns. These national cases, while not occurring in Texas, have established crucial legal precedents, shaped anti-hazing legislation, and illuminated the profound dangers of these rituals. For Upshur County families, understanding these “anchor stories” provides vital context for how similar incidents in Texas are likely to be approached by courts and legal teams like ours. These cases show the foreseeability of harm and the legal consequences that can follow.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Excessive alcohol consumption remains the leading cause of hazing-related deaths. The following cases demonstrate the tragic consequences and legal ramifications that often arise when organizations prioritize harmful traditions over the safety of their members.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (February 2017): In one of the most widely publicized hazing deaths, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after falling repeatedly and suffering severe head injuries during a “bid acceptance” initiation at the Beta Theta Pi house. He was forced to consume large amounts of alcohol as part of the ritual. Shockingly, the incident was captured on fraternity cameras, revealing that members waited nearly 12 hours before calling for medical help, during which time Piazza suffered multiple falls and appeared unconscious. Dozens of fraternity members faced criminal charges, including involuntary manslaughter, and the incident led to significant legal reforms in Pennsylvania, with the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law upgrading hazing to a felony. The civil litigation also resulted in confidential settlements from multiple parties. This case highlights how severe intoxication, a culture of delayed medical care, and efforts to cover up incidents can lead to devastating legal and criminal consequences.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (November 2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old FSU pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning after attending a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to drink them. The incident led to multiple criminal prosecutions of fraternity members for misdemeanor hazing, and Florida State University temporarily suspended all Greek life activities in response. The Coffey family filed a wrongful death lawsuit, which later settled under confidential terms. This case underscores how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster, often involving rapid, forced consumption that quickly overwhelms an individual’s system.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (September 2017): Max Gruver, 18, died after a “Bible study” drinking game at the Phi Delta Theta house. Pledges were quizzed on fraternity lore, and incorrect answers resulted in forced drinking of large amounts of alcohol. His blood alcohol content was 0.495% at the time of his death. The tragedy led to the enactment of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making felony hazing a crime punishable by up to five years in prison. Multiple fraternity members were charged, with one convicted of negligent homicide. The family also reached a civil settlement. The Max Gruver Act is a powerful example of how public outrage stemming from a clear instance of hazing can drive significant legislative change, upgrading crimes to felonies and imposing severe penalties.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (March 2021): Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire handle of liquor during a Pi Kappa Alpha “Big/Little” initiation night. Multiple fraternity members were later convicted of various hazing-related criminal charges. In 2023, the Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement in their civil wrongful death lawsuit, with approximately $7 million coming from the national Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and nearly $3 million from Bowling Green State University. This case is a stark reminder that both universities and national fraternities can face significant financial and reputational consequences when hazing leads to tragedy. It also led to Ohio’s Collin’s Law, named after another hazing victim, Collin Wiant, which made hazing a felony when alcohol or drugs cause physical harm.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Hazing is not always about alcohol; it can involve severe physical abuse and dangerous rituals that reflect a grotesque distortion of “bonding.”

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College / Pi Delta Psi (December 2013): Michael Deng, 19, died after a brutal “glass ceiling” ritual at a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. Blindfolded and wearing a heavy backpack, he was repeatedly tackled. Fraternity members delayed calling 911 for hours as Deng’s condition worsened, and they attempted to stage a cover-up. Multiple members were criminally convicted, and the national Pi Delta Psi fraternity itself was found guilty of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter—a landmark case involving criminal liability against a national organization. The fraternity was banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years. This tragedy painfully illustrates how off-campus “retreats” are often chosen precisely to hide dangerous hazing and how national organizations can be held directly responsible.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is pervasive across collegiate environments and extends well beyond Greek life, often affecting high-profile athletic programs where power dynamics and group cohesion can be exploited.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): In a scandal that rocked collegiate athletics, former Northwestern football players came forward with allegations of widespread, egregious hazing within the program. The hazing reportedly included sexualized rituals, forced nudity, and racist abuse. The cascade of accusations led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern University and its coaching staff. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald was initially suspended and then fired, subsequently filing a wrongful-termination lawsuit against the university, which reportedly settled confidentially in August 2025. This incident underscores that hazing is not confined to Greek organizations; it can exist—and be actively concealed—within major athletic programs, raising profound questions about institutional oversight and accountability.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national anchor stories share unsettling common threads that are highly relevant to Upshur County families navigating hazing issues at Texas universities:

• Predictable Patterns of Harm: Forced drinking, humiliation, physical violence, delayed medical care, and attempts at cover-ups are recurring elements across almost all severe hazing incidents. This means the harm is often foreseeable, not a “freak accident.”
• Accountability After Litigation: While many universities and national organizations have anti-hazing policies, significant reforms, multi-million-dollar settlements, and profound accountability often only follow the tragedies themselves, driven by tenacious litigation.
• Legal Precedents: These national cases have established crucial legal precedents regarding organizational liability, the invalidity of “consent” in hazing, and the foreseeability of severe harm, which can all be leveraged by Texas lawyers in civil hazing lawsuits.

Families in Upshur County contemplating their legal options after a hazing incident at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor are not alone. They are entering a legal landscape that has been profoundly shaped by these national lessons, providing a roadmap for seeking justice and preventing future tragedies.

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

For Upshur County families choosing from Texas’s esteemed universities, the dream of a safe, enriching college experience is paramount. Yet, hazing incidents at these very institutions—University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor—are a harsh reality. While we are a Houston-based firm, we understand that students from Upshur County attend schools across the state, and the reach of these campuses touches many lives in our community.

This section provides a detailed look at hazing at these five major Texas universities, exploring their unique cultures, policies, and documented incidents. We aim to equip Upshur County parents and students with specific knowledge about the legal landscape at each institution.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant urban campus, is home to a diverse student body, including many from Upshur County and throughout East Texas. Its multiple fraternities, sororities, and student organizations offer rich opportunities but also present areas where hazing can unfortunately occur. Given its proximity to our primary office, Attorney911 is particularly familiar with the dynamics at UH.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH is one of Texas’s largest universities, with a blend of commuting and resident students. Its Greek life is robust and multicultural, fostering a strong sense of community but also susceptible to the pressures that can lead to hazing. Beyond Greek life, various student organizations, including cultural groups and sports clubs, also contribute to the campus social fabric.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, clearly stating that hazing, whether on-campus or off-campus, is prohibited. Their policy explicitly bans activities such as forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs; sleep deprivation; physical mistreatment; and any actions designed to cause mental distress as part of initiation or affiliation. UH provides reporting channels through its Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the UH Police Department (UHPD). While UH posts a general hazing statement, detailed public disciplinary records might be less comprehensive than some other institutions.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UH has faced its share of hazing allegations and disciplinary actions:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2016): One particularly egregious incident involved the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Pledges allegedly endured severe deprivation of food, water, and sleep during a multi-day event. Tragically, one student sustained a lacerated spleen after being violently slammed onto a table or similar surface as part of the hazing. The local chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and was subsequently suspended by the university.
• Subsequent Disciplinary Actions: Over the years, other fraternities at UH have faced disciplinary action, probation, or suspension for activities considered “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” including various forms of alcohol misuse, physical challenges, and policy violations.

These incidents highlight UH’s stated willingness to suspend and discipline chapters, yet the recurring nature of these events underscores the challenges of consistently eradicating hazing.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Upshur County residents, understanding the logistics of a UH hazing case is important. Because UH is located in Houston, alleged incidents may involve the UH Police Department and/or the Houston Police Department, depending on where the hazing occurred. Civil lawsuits stemming from UH hazing incidents would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Potential defendants could include the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the university and property owners of off-campus venues.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

• Familiarize Yourself with UH Policy: Review the University of Houston’s official anti-hazing policies thoroughly.
• Utilize Reporting Channels: If you suspect hazing, report it to the UH Dean of Students office, UHPD, or through their anonymous reporting forms.
• Document Everything Diligently: Keep detailed records of any incidents, communications, or changes in behavior. Take screenshots of digital evidence and photographs of injuries.
• Seek Legal Consultation Early: Due to the complexity of cases involving urban campuses and multiple law enforcement agencies, speaking with a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases can help you uncover prior disciplinary actions and navigate the legal processes effectively.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, a beloved institution for many Upshur County families and a centerpiece of the Brazos Valley, is renowned for its deep-rooted traditions and the esteemed Corps of Cadets. While these elements foster immense pride and loyalty, they have also unfortunately been associated with hazing incidents within both Greek life and the Corps.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M’s identity is inextricably linked to its powerful traditions, its strong Greek system, and the unique, military-structured Corps of Cadets. This culture, while promoting camaraderie and discipline, can also unwittingly create an environment where hazing is rationalized as “character building” or part of an “Aggie Spirit” initiation. Students from Upshur County often choose A&M for these very traditions, making it critical to understand their potential dark side.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M explicitly prohibits hazing, articulating its stance against any act that endangers the mental or physical health of a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or membership. The university’s hazing policies apply to all student organizations, including Greek life and the Corps of Cadets. Reporting channels include the Students Conflict Resolution Center, the Division of Student Affairs, and the University Police Department (UPD).

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced significant hazing issues within multiple facets of its campus community, some drawing national attention:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (around 2021): In a particularly disturbing civil lawsuit, two pledges of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity alleged they endured severe physical hazing. They claimed they were forced into strenuous activity and had substances, including what they identified as industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, poured on them. The consequence: severe chemical burns that necessitated skin graft surgeries. The fraternity chapter was suspended for two years by the university.
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing rituals within the Corps of Cadets. These rituals included humiliating acts and being bound between beds in a forced “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million in damages. Texas A&M stated it addressed the matter through its internal disciplinary processes.
• Aggie Bonfire Collapse (1999): While not traditional hazing, the tragic collapse of the student-constructed Aggie Bonfire, which killed 12 students and injured 27, raised profound questions about high-risk student-led activities, institutional oversight, and the potential for dangerous traditions to go unchecked. Civil lawsuits that followed resulted in settlements exceeding $6 million.

These incidents highlight that hazing at A&M impacts both Greek life and the beloved Corps of Cadets, sometimes exploiting deep-seated traditions.

5.1.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

Cases involving Texas A&M hazing incidents would typically involve the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) for on-campus incidents, or the Bryan/College Station Police Departments for off-campus events. Civil action would generally proceed in courts with jurisdiction over Brazos County. Given the university’s large endowment and the national scope of some implicated organizations, these cases often involve sophisticated legal battles against well-resourced defendants.

5.1.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

• Scrutinize “Traditions”: For students and parents from Upshur County, it’s vital to differentiate between healthy traditions and dangerous hazing, especially within the Corps and Greek life.
• Document Corps Practices: If a student is in the Corps of Cadets and suspects hazing, documenting specific activities, directives, and any harm is critical.
• Preserve Digital Evidence: Group chats, social media posts, and photos from both Greek life and Corps activities can be crucial evidence.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Due to the unique cultural dynamics and the potential for institutional resistance at A&M, early legal consultation with an firm experienced in hazing litigation is essential.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution and a magnet for bright students from across Texas, including Upshur County, has unfortunately been a recurring site for hazing incidents. Given its prominent position and large Greek system, UT’s approach to hazing prevention and accountability is closely watched.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is one of the nation’s largest universities, characterized by a vibrant, often progressive, campus culture, a massive student body, and a highly active Greek life community. Its diverse student organizations range from academic clubs to spirit groups. The campus is adjacent to the bustling city of Austin, offering a wide array of off-campus activities where hazing can often move to avoid detection.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Texas at Austin maintains strong anti-hazing policies, explicitly prohibiting any activity that causes or is likely to cause mental or physical discomfort, humiliation, or ridicule for the purpose of initiation or membership. UT is notable for its commitment to transparency regarding hazing. Their public Hazing Violations webpage (hazing.utexas.edu) lists organizations, incident dates, the specific conduct, and the resulting sanctions. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT’s public database of hazing violations provides valuable insight into ongoing issues across its campus:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): The Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity was sanctioned after new members were directed to consume excessive amounts of milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, actions clearly identified as hazing. The chapter was placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Other Student Organizations: UT’s public records show that hazing is not confined to Greek life. Various student groups, including the long-standing spirit organization Texas Wranglers and other social and academic clubs, have been sanctioned for alcohol-related hazing, forced physical activities, blindfolding, and other forms of humiliating treatment.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (January 2024): A major lawsuit was filed against the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) chapter for over $1 million after an Australian exchange student allegedly suffered severe injuries, including a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and a broken nose, following an assault by fraternity members at a party. This chapter was already under suspension for prior hazing/safety violations, demonstrating a pattern of egregious conduct.

These documented cases underscore that despite UT’s efforts at transparency and enforcement, hazing persists across a spectrum of student organizations. The university’s public hazing log is a critical resource for families.

5.1.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Upshur County families, hazing incidents at UT Austin could involve UT Police Department (UTPD) or Austin Police Department for criminal investigations. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in courts within Travis County. The existence of UT’s public hazing log provides exceptionally strong evidence in civil suits, often demonstrating a clear pattern of prior violations, university knowledge of the organization’s conduct, and a potential failure to implement effective deterrents.

5.1.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

• Consult the UT Hazing Log: Before joining any organization, Upshur County parents and students should review UT’s Hazing Violations webpage (hazing.utexas.edu) to understand an organization’s disciplinary history.
• Document Past Violations: If an incident occurs, use the public log to help demonstrate a pattern of behavior that could support a legal claim.
• Report to UTPD or Austin PD: For criminal acts, reporting to law enforcement is a vital first step, even if also reporting to the Dean of Students.
• Contact a Texas Hazing Attorney: An attorney experienced with UT cases can deeply investigate past incidents, leverage the university’s own records, and efficiently navigate the Austin/Travis County legal system.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a distinguished private institution situated in Dallas, draws a significant number of students from affluent families, including those from Upshur County and throughout Texas. Its vibrant Greek life and exclusive social scene, while appealing, have also been the backdrop for concerning hazing incidents.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is known for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and a generally affluent student body. Greek life plays a particularly prominent role in the social hierarchy at SMU, with a large percentage of students joining fraternities and sororities. This environment can create intense pressure to conform and endure “traditions” to achieve social acceptance, sometimes leading to harmful hazing practices.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU implements strict anti-hazing policies applicable to all student organizations. The university prohibits any act that causes or may cause mental or physical discomfort, intimidation, or harm, or that degrades or demeans new members. SMU actively promotes its hazing prevention efforts, including providing various reporting forms and anonymous reporting systems, such as “Real Response,” to encourage students to come forward.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

SMU has taken disciplinary action against several Greek organizations for hazing violations:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): This fraternity chapter faced serious allegations of hazing, including reports of new members being verbally abused, physically paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and subjected to sleep deprivation. The chapter was suspended by the university for several years, with restrictions on its recruiting activities.
• Other Greek Organizations: SMU’s records indicate that other fraternities and sororities have also faced sanctions, including probation and suspension, for violations ranging from alcohol misuse during new member events to more explicit hazing practices.

These incidents highlight the challenges even private universities face in controlling entrenched Greek social dynamics and ensuring compliance with anti-hazing policies.

5.1.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

As a private university, SMU’s internal disciplinary records are generally not subject to public information requests as they would be at public institutions like UT or UH. However, hazing incidents that cross into criminal territory could involve the SMU Police Department or Dallas Police Department. Civil lawsuits would be filed in courts within Dallas County. When pursuing a case against a private university or its affiliated organizations, a crucial aspect of litigation often involves aggressive discovery tactics to compel the disclosure of internal records, incident reports, and communications that shed light on the university’s and organization’s knowledge and response to prior hazing.

5.1.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

• Understand the Social Climate: Upshur County families with students at SMU should be aware of the intense social pressures within Greek life and how these can be exploited by organizations.
• Utilize Anonymous Reporting: If hazing is suspected, consider using SMU’s anonymous reporting systems, but understand these offer internal discipline, not legal accountability or compensation.
• Prioritize Evidence Collection: Because private universities have less public transparency, diligently collecting photographs, videos, and especially digital communications from day one becomes even more critical for any potential future legal action.
• Seek Experienced Legal Counsel: A lawyer with experience challenging private institutions can navigate the unique challenges of obtaining evidence and holding powerful private entities accountable in Dallas County courts.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a prominent Christian university in Waco, holds a unique place in the hearts of many Texans, including families in Upshur County. While known for its strong academic and faith-based community, Baylor has faced significant scrutiny over institutional failings, particularly in its handling of past scandals concerning sexual assault, which provides a challenging backdrop to hazing issues.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor is one of the largest Baptist universities in the world, with a strong emphasis on faith, community, and tradition. Its student body is diverse, with active Greek life chapters and a passionate athletic culture. The desire for community and belonging here, like at other schools, can sometimes be twisted into harmful initiation rituals, complicating the university’s mission.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University has a clear “zero tolerance” policy for hazing. Its policy prohibits any activity that could cause physical, mental, or emotional harm to new members, and it applies to all registered student organizations, athletic teams, and university departments. Baylor provides reporting mechanisms through its Student Life division, the Department of Public Safety, and an anonymous incident reporting hotline.

5.1.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Despite its strict policies, Baylor has dealt with significant hazing incidents:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): A major incident involved allegations of hazing within the Baylor baseball program. Subsequent investigations led to the suspension of 14 players for their involvement, with the suspensions staggered over the early season to mitigate impact on the team, yet unequivocally affirming the university’s findings against the players.
• Broader Context: These individual hazing incidents at Baylor occur within a broader institutional history marked by challenges related to institutional oversight and student well-being, particularly following the major sexual assault scandal that led to significant leadership changes and reforms. This history suggests a cultural sensitivity to allegations of misconduct, but also underscores how powerful programs can sometimes foster environments where abuse may occur.

5.1.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Upshur County families, hazing incidents at Baylor University could lead to investigations by the Baylor University Police Department or the Waco Police Department for criminal complaints. Civil lawsuits would likely be pursued in courts located in McLennan County. Navigating a legal claim against Baylor often involves understanding its unique institutional culture, the influence of its private status on transparency, and the potential for a defensive stance given its past public relations challenges.

5.1.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

• Be Aware of Institutional History: Upshur County families should be particularly mindful of Baylor’s past challenges with institutional oversight and how this might influence the handling of hazing allegations.
• Document Evidence Thoroughly: Given Baylor’s private status, aggressive and meticulous collection of all available evidence (digital, physical, medical) from the outset is crucial for any legal action.
• Seek External Legal Advice: While Baylor has internal reporting, an independent legal evaluation from a firm experienced in private university litigation can ensure your rights are protected and that all avenues for accountability are explored in McLennan County.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

The Greek letter organizations at campuses like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are part of a larger national ecosystem. For Upshur County families trying to understand hazing, it’s crucial to connect the actions of local chapters to the historical patterns and liabilities of their national organizations. The Manginello Law Firm recognizes that hazing is not just a local problem but often a recurring issue across multiple chapters of the same national entity.

Why National Histories Matter

The reality is that many fraternities and sororities operating at Texas universities—such as Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi, and Kappa Alpha Order—are chapters of larger, national organizations. These national headquarters often develop extensive anti-hazing policies and risk management guidelines precisely because they have a long history of members dying or suffering catastrophic injuries from hazing at their chapters nationwide.

When a local chapter in Texas repeats hazing behaviors that have led to deaths or severe injuries in other states, this demonstrates a critical legal concept: foreseeability. It means the national organization had prior knowledge, or should have had prior knowledge, that such behaviors pose extreme risks. This pattern of conduct—ignored or inadequately addressed by the national body—can significantly strengthen arguments for negligence, gross negligence, and even punitive damages against national entities in a civil lawsuit.

Organization Mapping: Connecting Local Chapters to National Patterns

While we recognize that not every chapter of every organization engages in hazing, a select number of national fraternities have unfortunately been implicated in multiple severe hazing incidents across the country. Here, we highlight some of them and their national history relevant to Texas students.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): This fraternity has a documented national history of alcohol-related hazing.

  • Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (2021): A pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire handle of liquor during a “Big/Little” initiation. The family reached a $10 million settlement, with a substantial portion from the national fraternity. This case is highly relevant as Pi Kappa Alpha has chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, and UH.
  • David Bogenberger – Northern Illinois University (2012): Another pledge death from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event, resulting in a $14 million settlement for the family.
  • Impact for Texas: When a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter at a Texas university, like those attended by Upshur County students (such as Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, or UH), engages in forced alcohol consumption, the national organization’s prior incidents with Stone Foltz and David Bogenberger provide powerful evidence of foreseeability.

• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ):

  • Timothy Piazza – Penn State University (2017): Died from traumatic brain injuries after extreme alcohol consumption and falls during a “bid acceptance” night. This case resulted in multiple criminal charges and strengthened anti-hazing laws. Beta Theta Pi has chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, and SMU.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

  • Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University (2017): Died from alcohol toxicity during a forced drinking game. This led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing). Phi Delta Theta has chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, and SMU.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

  • Andrew Coffey – Florida State University (2017): Died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pi Kappa Phi has chapters at Texas A&M and UT Austin.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): This fraternity has an extensive national history of problematic conduct, including multiple hazing-related deaths nationwide, and has been the subject of numerous lawsuits.

  • University of Alabama (2023): A pledge allegedly suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual, leading to a lawsuit against the fraternity.
  • Texas A&M University (2021): Two pledges alleged they suffered severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts after substances, including industrial cleaner, were poured on them. This case highlights a dangerous and evolving form of hazing.
  • University of Texas at Austin (January 2024): A lawsuit for over $1 million was filed after a student alleged assault by fraternity members, resulting in a dislocated leg and multiple fractures, occurring while the chapter was under university suspension.
  • Impact for Texas: The recurring nature of SAE incidents, both nationally and at Texas campuses like A&M and UT (where chapters are active and Upshur County students may attend), makes it a particularly concerning organization for hazing plaintiffs.

• Phi Gamma Delta (ΦΓΔ / FIJI):

  • Danny Santulli – University of Missouri (2021): Suffered severe, permanent brain damage from excessive alcohol consumption during a “pledge dad reveal” night. His family settled lawsuits with 22 defendants, including the fraternity, with multi-million-dollar outcomes. Phi Gamma Delta has a chapter at Texas A&M.

• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ):

  • Chad Meredith – University of Miami (2001): Drowned after being persuaded to swim across a lake while intoxicated, resulting in a $12.6 million jury verdict against the fraternity for negligence and hazing. Kappa Sigma has chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor.
  • Texas A&M University (2023, ongoing): Allegations of severe hazing resulted in rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) in pledges, indicating extreme physical abuse.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

Understanding these national patterns is not simply an academic exercise; it forms a cornerstone of our legal strategy at The Manginello Law Firm when representing Upshur County families.

• Demonstrating Foreseeability: When a local chapter at a Texas university engages in hazing that mirrors incidents at other chapters for which the national organization has already paid settlements or faced sanctions, it powerfully demonstrates that the national entity knew, or should have known, the risks involved. This significantly undercuts claims that hazing was an “unforeseeable accident” or the act of “rogue individuals.”
• Strengthening Negligence Claims: A history of similar incidents across multiple chapters and states can be used to argue that national organizations were negligent in their supervision, training, or enforcement of anti-hazing policies. It shows that their policies were mere “paper policies” and not genuinely implemented.
• Insurance Coverage Disputes: Our firm, with Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge of insurance companies, understands that insurers often try to deny coverage for hazing, claiming “intentional acts” are excluded. However, by demonstrating a pattern of negligent supervision by the national body or university, we can often compel insurance companies to provide coverage, securing the resources necessary for victim compensation.
• Supporting Punitive Damages: In egregious cases, established patterns of ignored warnings and repeated hazing can strengthen arguments for punitive damages, which are designed not just to compensate victims but to punish the defendants for reckless or malicious conduct and deter future similar acts.

For Upshur County families whose children have suffered from hazing at a Texas university, we investigate these national histories meticulously. This strategic approach ensures that all responsible parties, from individual students to powerful national organizations and universities, are held accountable for their actions and inactions.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

When hazing impacts a family in Upshur County, the path to justice requires a meticulous legal strategy, focusing on comprehensive evidence collection and a thorough understanding of the damages incurred. At The Manginello Law Firm, we approach hazing cases with the same investigative rigor and strategic depth we apply to complex personal injury and wrongful death claims against major corporations.

Evidence: The Foundation of Your Case

Hazing cases are built on evidence, and in the digital age, much of this evidence lives on our phones and online. Understanding what evidence to collect and how to preserve it is paramount. Attorney911’s video on using your phone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos.

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

  • GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, Fraternity/Sorority Apps: These platforms are goldmines of information. They often contain messages planning hazing activities, giving instructions, or even recording reactions during an event. Crucially, digital forensics experts can often recover deleted messages, but original screenshots are invaluable. We instruct clients to capture full threads with timestamps, participant names, and sufficient context.
  • Social Media: Instagram DMs and stories, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments, and Facebook posts can reveal a disturbing picture of hazing activities, public humiliation, or even proof of injuries.
  • Emails: Official chapter communications, calendar invites to “mandatory events,” and correspondence with advisors or university staff can be vital.

• Photos & Videos:

  • Content from Members: Often, members themselves capture hazing on video, sharing it in private group chats. This footage can provide undeniable proof.
  • Injuries: Immediate and sequential photographs of injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, swelling) over several days are critical to document their progression.
  • Security Footage: Cameras at houses, university buildings, or off-campus venues can capture activity related to a hazing incident.

• Internal Organization Documents: Documents like pledge manuals, initiation scripts, or lists of “traditions” can reveal the long-standing, planned nature of certain hazing rituals. Emails or texts from officers discussing “what we’ll do to the pledges” are also highly probative. National organization policies and training materials are critical to show what the national body knew or should have known.

• University Records: Through aggressive discovery and public records requests (for public institutions like UT or UH), we can uncover a university’s knowledge of prior hazing incidents. This includes past conduct files, disciplinary actions, warnings, and internal communications among administrators regarding the implicated organization. Incident reports to campus police or student conduct offices, and Clery Act reports, also provide valuable context.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the extent of the harm suffered. This includes emergency room reports, hospitalization records, lab results (blood alcohol content, toxicology, rhabdomyolysis indicators), imaging (X-rays, CT scans, MRIs), and all follow-up treatment notes. For psychological harm, evaluations from mental health professionals diagnosing PTSD, depression, or anxiety are crucial for proving emotional distress.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are powerful. This includes other pledges, current or former members, roommates, Resident Advisors (RAs), coaches, and even bystanders. Former members who quit or were expelled, often due to hazing, can provide invaluable insight into an organization’s hidden practices.

Damages: Recovering What Was Lost

Hazing exacts a devastating toll, both financially and emotionally. In a civil lawsuit, the goal is to secure compensation—or “damages”—that fully accounts for all the harm experienced. Our firm brings extensive experience in complex personal injury and wrongful death cases to ensure that all damages are meticulously calculated and pursued.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This includes all immediate costs for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, and medications. For severe injuries, such as brain damage or organ failure, it includes the projected costs of long-term care, therapies (physical, occupational, psychological), and specialist consultations for the remainder of the victim’s life.
• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This covers lost wages if the victim or a parent had to miss work. Critically, it includes the financial impact of delayed or lost educational opportunities, tuition costs, lost scholarships, and, for permanent injuries, the significant loss of future earning capacity as calculated by economic experts.
• Non-Economic Damages: These are harder to quantify but no less real. They include:
  • Physical Pain and Suffering: The agony from injuries, enduring pain from permanent conditions, and the loss of physical abilities.
  • Emotional Distress, Trauma, and Humiliation: This encompasses diagnosed conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and even suicidal ideation. It also accounts for the profound personal suffering from humiliation, loss of dignity, fear, and the betrayal of trust.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to participate in activities once loved, social withdrawal, and the overall diminishing of life’s quality.
• Wrongful Death Damages (for families): In the tragic event of a hazing-related death, eligible family members (spouse, children, parents in Texas) can recover:
  • Funeral and Burial Costs.
  • Loss of Financial Support: Calculated based on the deceased’s expected lifetime contributions to the family.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Society: The profound emotional void left by the deceased.
  • Grief and Emotional Suffering: For the surviving family members.
  • Loss of Guidance and Counsel: Especially for minor children or younger siblings.

While we cannot promise specific dollar amounts, we can assure Upshur County families that we rigorously pursue all available damages to ensure full and fair compensation. View our video on “How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onBzdkIWadY to learn more about the factors involved in valuing a case.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing cases often involve multiple parties and complex insurance disputes. Defendants, from individual students to national organizations and universities, frequently argue that their actions are not covered by insurance. Our firm’s background, particularly with Lupe Peña’s experience as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), gives us a distinct advantage here.

• Insurance Denials: Insurers often try to deny coverage by claiming hazing or assaults are “intentional acts,” which are typically excluded from general liability policies. They will also argue that their policies do not cover specific defendants or types of harm.
• Our Strategy: We anticipate these tactics. We argue that even if the hazing itself was intentional, the negligent supervision, failure to warn, or lack of enforcement of anti-hazing policies by the national organization or university was not intentional and should be covered. We meticulously identify all potential insurance policies—including homeowner’s policies of individual members, chapter policies, national policies, and university umbrella policies—and we aggressive challenge wrongful denials of coverage. Our goal is to force insurers to defend their clients and pay out valid claims, often leading to substantial settlements that spare families the ordeal of a protracted trial.

Practical Guides & FAQs

When hazing strikes, families in Upshur County and across Texas are often left confused, scared, and unsure of what to do next. This section provides immediate, actionable guidance for parents, students, and witnesses, empowering them with the knowledge to protect rights, preserve evidence, and seek help.

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

As a parent, your intuition is your most powerful tool. Trust your gut if something feels off with your child away at a Texas university.

• Warning Signs of Hazing:

  • Unexplained Injuries: Look for bruises, cuts, or burns that don’t match casual excuses.
  • Extreme Fatigue: Beyond normal college stress; frequent late nights, early mornings, or calls demanding immediate attention.
  • Mood Changes: Sudden anxiety, depression, irritability, or social withdrawal.
  • Secrecy: Your child becomes uncharacteristically secretive about group activities, saying, “I can’t talk about it,” or “It’s a secret.”
  • Constant Phone Use Anxiety: Answering group chats at all hours; palpable fear of missing “mandatory” events.
  • Academic Decline: Sudden drop in grades, missing classes, or sleep deprivation impacting studies.

• How to Talk to Your Child:

  • Listen Without Judgment: Reassure them that their safety and well-being are your top priorities, far above any organizational affiliation.
  • Open Questions: Ask gently, “Are you enjoying yourself? Are you ever asked to do things that make you uncomfortable? Do you feel safe?”
  • Emphasize Support: Let them know you’ll support them through any decision, including leaving the organization.

• If Your Child is Hurt:

  • Seek Medical Care Immediately: Prioritize their physical and mental health. Go to an emergency room, urgent care, or student health services. Ensure medical staff document the cause of injury as “hazing.”
  • Document Everything: Photograph injuries from multiple angles and save all digital communications (texts, group chats, images). Write down a detailed narrative of what your child tells you, including dates, times, and names.
  • Preserve Evidence: Do not let your child delete messages. Preserve physical items like clothing or any objects involved.

• Dealing with the University:

  • Document All Communications: Keep a meticulous record of every phone call, email, and meeting with university administrators.
  • Ask Specific Questions: Inquire about an organization’s past hazing history and disciplinary actions.
  • Do Not Sign Anything: Do not sign any university “waiver” or “resolution agreement” without speaking to an attorney.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has sustained significant physical or psychological harm, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing or covering up what happened, contact an experienced hazing attorney immediately.

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

If you are a student at a Texas university, perhaps from Upshur County, and you’re questioning whether what you’re experiencing is “normal” or hazing, ask yourself:

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? If you feel unsafe, humiliated, coerced, or forced to drink or endure pain; if the activity is kept secret from the public or administrators; if older members are making you do things they didn’t do or wouldn’t do now—it is likely hazing.
• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: In environments with power imbalances, immense peer pressure, and a fear of exclusion, your “agreement” is often coerced, not a free choice. Texas law explicitly recognizes that consent is not a defense to hazing.
• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the absolute right to leave any organization at any time. If you feel unsafe, reach out to a trusted adult outside the organization (parent, RA, professor, counselor). Consider sending a brief email to the chapter president to officially “de-pledge.” If you fear retaliation, document any threats and report them to the Dean of Students or campus police.
• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many schools and Texas law encourage students to call for help in an emergency by offering some protection from disciplinary action for minor violations (like underage drinking) if they are seeking aid for someone in immediate danger. Your safety and the safety of others must always come first.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses: A Path to Accountability

If you’re a former member or witness of hazing, you might carry a heavy burden of guilt, fear of retaliation, or complicity. However, you also hold the key to preventing future harm and bringing justice to victims.

• Your Testimony Matters: Your firsthand account and any evidence you possess can be instrumental in holding organizations and individuals accountable, ultimately saving lives.
• Seek Independent Legal Advice: You may have your own legal exposure, and it’s essential to consult with an attorney to understand your rights, attorney-client privilege, and how to navigate potential testimony or cooperation without self-incrimination.
• Cooperation is a Choice for Justice: While challenging, choosing to cooperate with investigations or lawsuits can be a powerful step toward making amends and reforming dangerous organizational cultures.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Upshur County families dealing with hazing, an experienced hazing attorney like Attorney911 can provide invaluable guidance. Here are some critical mistakes that can severely damage a hazing case:

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence: Parents often believe they are protecting their child from further trouble. However, deleting crucial digital evidence (group chats, texts, photos) looks like a cover-up and can be seen as obstruction of justice. It makes proving the case nearly impossible. What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even content that feels embarrassing. Attorney911’s video on client mistakes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) explains this in more detail.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly: While your instinct might be to confront the individuals responsible, this will almost always backfire. They will immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses. What to do instead: Document everything, then call a lawyer before any direct confrontation.

3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms: Universities may pressure families to sign waivers or accept internal resolutions. These agreements often waive your right to sue, and any compensation offered is typically far below the true value of the case. What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university without an attorney reviewing it first.

4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer: While you may want to share your story, anything posted on public social media can be used against you by defense attorneys. Inconsistencies can hurt credibility, and you might inadvertently waive legal privileges. What to do instead: Document privately and let your lawyer control public messaging strategically.

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”: Fraternities or sororities might try to entice your child back by asking them to “just come talk.” This is often a tactic to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can hurt your potential legal case. What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication from the organization should be directed through your lawyer.

6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it”: Universities often promise internal investigations, but these processes may not prioritize victim compensation or genuine accountability. Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations can run out. What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW and consult a lawyer immediately. Understand that the university’s internal process is separate from a civil legal claim.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer: Insurance adjusters are trained to protect the insurance company’s interests, not yours. They may seem sympathetic but will attempt to gather information that can be used to minimize your claim or secure a quick, lowball settlement. What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with any adjuster and tell them, “My attorney will contact you.”

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT enjoy some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individual employees in their personal capacities. Private universities like SMU and Baylor have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals, including officers of an organization, may also face misdemeanor charges for failing to report hazing.

• “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. The law recognizes that “consent” given under duress, intense peer pressure, and fear of social exclusion is not truly voluntary.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”
  Generally, there is a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this 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. For a full explanation, watch our video on the statute of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities and sororities can still be held liable based on their sponsorship, control, knowledge, and the foreseeability of hazing activities, regardless of whether they occurred on or off campus. Many major national hazing cases, such as the Pi Delta Psi retreat death or incidents at “unofficial” fraternity houses, occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  While some high-profile hazing cases make national news, most hazing lawsuits settle confidentially before reaching a public trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy and can seek to seal court records and include confidentiality clauses in settlement agreements, balancing the need for justice with your desire for discretion.

Remember, if the law is complex or depends on specific details, always consult directly with an attorney to review the unique facts of your situation.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family faces the profound trauma of a hazing incident, especially one involving a Texas university, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need tenacious attorneys who understand how powerful institutions—national fraternities, state universities, well-funded defense teams, and major insurance companies—fight back, and how to successfully challenge them. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, stands ready to be your advocate.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Upshur County and surrounding areas like Gregg, Harrison, and Camp counties. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Upshur County and across the entire region, and we are dedicated to bringing justice to every corner of our state.

Our firm offers unique qualifications specifically fitted for the complexities of hazing litigation:

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our Associate Attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable experience as a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm. She knows precisely how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and their intricate settlement strategies—because she used to run their playbook. For information on Lupe Peña, visit https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.
• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Our Managing Partner, Ralph Manginello, possesses extensive experience in complex litigation, including being one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation. With deep federal court experience in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, we are not intimidated by the resources of national fraternities, universities, or their formidable defense teams. We’ve taken on multi-billion-dollar corporations and won, applying the same strategic prowess to seeking accountability from powerful defendants in hazing cases. Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials can be found 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, medical experts, and life care planners to meticulously value lifetime care needs for brain injuries, permanent disabilities, and to ensure that families who have lost a child receive full compensation for their profound loss. We don’t settle cheaply; we build cases that force accountability. Learn more about our approach at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.
• Dual Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph Manginello’s distinguished membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives our firm a unique understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This means we can effectively advise not only victims but also witnesses or former members who may face their own dual civil and criminal exposure. Our comprehensive criminal defense background means we understand all sides of these often-intertwined legal battles. See our criminal defense expertise at https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.
• Unmatched Investigative Depth: Our network includes top medical experts, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists. We are adept at obtaining critically hidden evidence, including recovering deleted group chats and social media content, subpoenaing national fraternity’s prior incident records, and uncovering crucial university files through aggressive discovery and public records requests. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

We understand that hazing cases are intricate and emotionally charged. We know how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments operate behind closed doors, often with a code of silence. We balance victim privacy with the need for public accountability, always prioritizing the well-being and recovery of your child while working tirelessly to prevent similar tragedies from happening to another family. We approach every case with empathy, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to achieving justice.

Call to Action: Your Legal Emergency Deserves Immediate Action

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

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to what happened, explain your legal options without judgment, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family.

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen attentively to your story, understanding the unique details of your experience.
• We’ll review any evidence you have collected—photos, texts, medical records—to assess the strength of your potential claim.
• We’ll clearly explain your legal options, discussing whether a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or other approaches are most appropriate for your situation.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what to expect throughout the legal process.
• Crucially, we’ll answer your questions about costs. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. View our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; we want you to take the time you need to make an informed decision.
• Everything you tell us during your consultation remains strictly confidential.

Whether you’re in Upshur County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Don’t let precious time erode your legal options.

Call us today to schedule your confidential consultation:

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

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

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