Hazing in Texas: A Complete Guide for Iredell Families Seeking Justice and Accountability

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You’re Not Alone

The phone call no parent in Iredell ever wants to receive comes late at night. Your son or daughter, away at college, is whispering, scared. They talk about “mandatory” events, feeling trapped, or worse—they’re in the hospital, and the story doesn’t add up. You hear words like “tradition,” “team bonding,” or “pledge education,” but your gut tells you something is dangerously wrong. You’re right to trust that instinct.

For families in Iredell, Bosque County, and across Central Texas, sending a child to a major university is a point of pride and hope. Whether they’re at Texas A&M in College Station, Baylor University in Waco, the University of Texas at Austin, or any of Texas’s 96 campuses, you trust the institution to keep them safe. But behind the official campus tours and glossy brochures exists a parallel world of dangerous traditions, group coercion, and institutional cover-ups that can—and does—turn deadly.

Right now, in Houston, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. Our client, Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, was hazed so severely by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter that he developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, passed brown urine, and was hospitalized for four days. The hazing included forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting; being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”; and extreme physical abuse. This is not an isolated incident—it’s a pattern that repeats across Texas campuses, and it’s why families in Iredell need to understand what hazing really looks like in 2025, what Texas law allows you to do about it, and how experienced legal counsel can fight for accountability when universities and fraternities fail to protect your child.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for Iredell families who need answers, options, and a path forward. We’ll explain the modern realities of hazing, break down Texas law, show you patterns from national and Texas cases, and provide concrete steps to protect your child’s rights. If you’re reading this because you suspect hazing, trust your instincts and keep reading.

Immediate Help for Hazing Emergencies

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

Get medical attention immediately, even if your child insists they’re “fine”
Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
- Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
- Photograph injuries from multiple angles
- Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing)
Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
Do NOT:
- Confront the fraternity/sorority directly
- Sign anything from the university or insurance company
- Post details on public social media
- Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed evidence, coached witnesses)
Universities move quickly to control the narrative
We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like Beyond the Stereotypes

For Iredell families unfamiliar with modern Greek life or campus organization culture, hazing has evolved far beyond the “animal house” stereotypes. Today’s hazing is often digitally coordinated, psychologically sophisticated, and deliberately hidden from university oversight. Understanding what you’re looking for is the first step toward protecting your child.

A Modern Definition of Hazing

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. In Texas law (Education Code Chapter 37), this includes any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers a student’s mental or physical health for purposes of initiation or affiliation.

Critical understanding for Iredell parents: “I agreed to it” does NOT make it legal or safe. Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. The power imbalance between new members and established members, combined with fear of social exclusion, means what looks like “agreement” is often coercion.

The Five Main Categories of Modern Hazing

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common—and most deadly—form of hazing. It’s not “just drinking with friends.” It’s systematic, forced consumption:

“Big/Little” reveal nights where pledges are given entire bottles of liquor
“Bible study” or trivia drinking games where wrong answers mean forced shots
Lineups where pledges must chug alcohol in sequence
Being pressured to consume unknown substances or dangerous mixtures

2. Physical Hazing
This extends beyond traditional paddling to include:

Extreme “workouts” or “smokings” designed to cause injury (like the 100+ push-ups and 500 squats that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez at UH)
Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions” or 3 AM wake-up calls
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of disgusting substances
Exposure to extreme cold/heat (being left outside in underwear in cold weather)

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

Forced nudity or partial nudity during initiations
Simulated sexual acts or degrading positions
Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones
Public shaming rituals captured on video and shared in group chats

4. Psychological Hazing

Verbal abuse, threats of expulsion from the organization
Social isolation from non-members
“Gaslighting” where reality is denied (“this isn’t hazing, it’s tradition”)
Forced confessions of personal information used for blackmail

5. Digital/Online Hazing

24/7 group chat monitoring with immediate response demands
Social media “challenges” that humiliate or endanger
Geo-tracking via apps like Find My Friends
Coerced creation of compromising content for social media

Where Hazing Actually Happens Across Texas Campuses

While fraternities and sororities receive the most attention, hazing occurs in multiple organizations where Iredell students might participate:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural chapters)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC at Texas A&M and other military-style programs
Athletic Teams from football to cheerleading
Spirit and Tradition Groups like Texas Cowboys, marching bands
Academic and Honor Societies
Cultural and Service Organizations

The common threads across all these groups: social status, tradition, and secrecy. Organizations often frame hazing as “necessary” for bonding or maintaining standards, creating a culture where speaking out feels like betrayal.

The Reality for Iredell Families: Distance Doesn’t Equal Safety

For parents in Iredell and Bosque County, your child might be hours away at college. The physical distance can make it harder to notice warning signs, but the patterns are consistent whether they’re at Baylor in Waco, Texas A&M in College Station, or UT in Austin. Modern technology means hazing can follow them home through 24/7 group chats and digital demands. Understanding these patterns helps you ask the right questions during those weekend calls home.

Texas Law & Liability Framework: What Iredell Families Need to Know

When hazing affects your family, understanding Texas law is crucial. The legal landscape provides both criminal penalties and civil remedies, but navigating it requires experienced guidance.

Texas Hazing Law Basics: Education Code Chapter 37

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that apply to all students at Texas universities. Here’s what Iredell families need to know in plain English:

Definition (Section 37.151):
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
Occurs for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any organization

Key points for Iredell families:

Can happen on or off campus—location doesn’t matter
Can be mental or physical harm
“Reckless” is enough—they don’t have to intend harm, just disregard obvious risks
“Consent is not a defense” (Section 37.155)—even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing

Criminal Penalties (Section 37.152):

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death
Also criminal: Failing to report hazing or retaliating against reporters

Organizational Liability (Section 37.153):
Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be:

Fined up to $10,000 per violation
Have university recognition revoked
Face criminal prosecution if they authorized hazing or knew and failed to report

Good-Faith Reporting Protection (Section 37.154):
Students who report hazing in good faith are immune from civil or criminal liability. This is crucial—your child won’t get in trouble for reporting, even if they were drinking underage or involved. Many Texas universities also have medical amnesty policies for 911 calls.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (prosecutor)
Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter
Example: In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, 13 individual members face potential criminal charges alongside the civil lawsuit we filed

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: Compensation and accountability
Focus: negligence, wrongful death, emotional distress, institutional failures
Critical point: A criminal conviction is NOT required to pursue a civil case

For Iredell families, both tracks may be relevant. A civil case can proceed even if prosecutors decline to file charges, and the evidence standards are different (preponderance of evidence vs. beyond reasonable doubt).

Federal Law Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents transparently
Strengthens hazing education and prevention
Phased implementation through 2026
Will create public hazing databases that Iredell families can consult

Title IX & Clery Act:

When hazing involves sexual harassment or assault, Title IX obligations apply
Clery Act requires reporting certain crimes; hazing often overlaps with assault or alcohol crimes
Both provide additional avenues for accountability when universities fail to respond properly

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

One of the most important concepts for Iredell families: multiple parties often share responsibility. In our UH Pi Kappa Phi case, we’ve sued:

Individual Students (13 members including president, pledgemaster, risk manager)
Local Chapter (Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter)
National Fraternity (Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters)
Housing Corporation (separate legal entity that owned/managed the house)
University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents
Third Parties (property owners, alcohol providers if applicable)

This comprehensive approach is crucial because insurance coverage and assets may be spread across multiple entities. A chapter house might have minimal insurance, but the national organization often carries substantial coverage. Universities may have sovereign immunity limitations but can still face liability for gross negligence or Title IX violations.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What History Teaches Iredell Families

The tragic cases below aren’t just news stories—they’re legal precedents that show patterns of behavior, institutional failures, and legal strategies that directly inform how we handle cases for Iredell families today.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern: The Most Common Tragedy

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)

20-year-old pledge forced to consume entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
$10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Lesson for Iredell families: National fraternities with known hazing patterns can be held accountable financially and through policy changes

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Pledge forced to participate in “Bible study” drinking game
Wrong answers = forced drinking; died with BAC of 0.495%
Led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
Lesson: State laws change after tragedies, creating stronger tools for future cases

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)

Bid acceptance night with extreme drinking
Falls captured on chapter cameras; delayed medical help
18 members charged with over 1,000 criminal counts
Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law resulted
Lesson: Digital evidence (security cameras, group chats) is crucial for proving delayed care and cover-ups

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

“Big Brother Night” with handles of hard liquor
Died from acute alcohol poisoning
FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
Lesson: University-wide consequences follow systemic failures

Physical & Ritualized Hazing: Beyond Alcohol

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)

Blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at remote retreat
Fatal head injuries; delayed 911 call
National fraternity criminally convicted
Fraternity banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Lesson for Iredell families: Off-campus locations don’t eliminate liability; nationals can face direct criminal charges

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)

“Pledge dad reveal” night with forced drinking
Severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
Settlements with 22 defendants
Lesson: Non-fatal injuries can still be catastrophic, requiring lifetime care worth millions

Athletic Program Hazing: Not Just Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach fired; confidential settlement
Lesson for Iredell families: Hazing exists in athletic programs with the same patterns of institutional cover-up

What These Cases Mean for Iredell Families

Patterns repeat: The same behaviors (forced drinking, physical abuse, delayed medical care) occur across states and organizations
Institutions often fail: Universities and nationals frequently have prior warnings but don’t intervene effectively
Legal tools exist: Multi-million-dollar settlements and new laws show accountability is possible
Evidence is everything: Digital communications, medical records, and witness testimony make or break cases
Specialized counsel matters: These cases require attorneys who understand both the law and the organizational cultures

Texas Universities: Where Iredell Families Send Their Kids

While Iredell itself is a small community in Bosque County, families here send children to universities across Texas. Understanding the specific landscapes at these schools helps you ask the right questions and recognize warning signs.

The Texas University Landscape for Iredell Families

Given Iredell’s location in Central Texas, families commonly have children at:

Nearby Regional Options:

Baylor University (Waco, ~50 miles from Iredell)
Texas A&M University (College Station, ~90 miles)
University of Texas at Austin (~110 miles)
Tarleton State University (Stephenville, ~70 miles)
McLennan Community College (Waco, ~50 miles)

Statewide Reach:

University of Houston (where our current Pi Kappa Phi case is active)
Texas Tech University (Lubbock)
Texas State University (San Marcos)
Southern Methodist University (Dallas)
And dozens of other public and private institutions

What this means for Iredell parents: Your child might be relatively close at Baylor or hours away at UT or Texas A&M. Hazing risks exist at all these campuses, and the legal principles remain the same regardless of distance. What changes is which police departments have jurisdiction (campus police, city police, or county sheriffs) and which courts would handle cases.

Baylor University: Closest Major Campus to Iredell

For Iredell families with students at Baylor (just 50 miles away in Waco):

Baylor’s religious identity and recent history with institutional accountability issues (the football sexual assault scandal) create a complex environment. The university has approximately 20,000 students and active Greek life alongside spiritual organizations.

Documented Hazing Incidents:

2020 Baylor Baseball Hazing: 14 players suspended following hazing investigation; staggered suspensions suggested systematic issues
Ongoing Greek Life Concerns: While less publicly documented than UT’s transparent system, Baylor has faced multiple Greek life suspensions and investigations
Cultural Context: Religious framing can sometimes obscure abusive behavior as “discipline” or “character building”

Baylor’s Hazing Policy & Reporting:

Prohibits hazing in student handbook
Reporting through Office of Student Conduct
Important for Iredell families: Baylor’s private status affects transparency—fewer public records than state schools

How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Jurisdiction: McLennan County courts (Waco)
Potential Defendants: Individuals, local chapter, national organization, Baylor University
Key Considerations: Baylor’s religious exemption claims vs. contractual duty to protect students

What Baylor Students & Iredell Parents Should Do:

Document everything with timestamps
Report to Baylor’s Office of Student Conduct AND Waco PD if crimes occurred
Request prior disciplinary records for the organization through counsel
Understand that Baylor’s internal process is NOT a substitute for legal action

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life

For Iredell families with Aggies (90 miles to College Station):

Texas A&M’s unique Corps of Cadets culture creates additional hazing risks beyond traditional Greek life. The university has approximately 74,000 students across its campuses with deeply ingrained traditions.

Documented Hazing Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. $1 million lawsuit filed; fraternity suspended for two years.
Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023): Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds with an apple in his mouth. Sought over $1 million; A&M stated it handled the matter internally.
Multiple Greek Life Suspensions: Regular disciplinary actions against fraternities for alcohol, physical, and psychological hazing

Texas A&M’s Hazing Policy:

Zero-tolerance policy in student rules
Separate Corps regulations with military-style discipline
Reporting through Student Conduct Office and Corps chain of command

How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Jurisdiction: Brazos County courts
Complex Defendant Landscape: Individuals, chapters, nationals, Corps leadership, A&M System
Sovereign Immunity Considerations: As a public university, A&M has some immunity protections but exceptions exist for gross negligence

What Texas A&M Students & Iredell Parents Should Do:

For Corps issues, document through both university AND military-style chain of command
For Greek life, preserve digital evidence aggressively—group chats are often deleted within hours
Consider both criminal (College Station PD) and civil options
Request Clery Act reports showing prior incidents

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Patterns

For Iredell families with Longhorns (110 miles to Austin):

UT Austin stands out for its relatively transparent public hazing violation log—a resource that both reveals patterns and helps build cases. The university has approximately 52,000 students with extensive Greek life and tradition organizations.

Documented Hazing Incidents (from UT’s Public Log):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation
Texas Wranglers (multiple years): Spirit organization sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol hazing
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted at party; injuries included dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured nose; over $1 million lawsuit filed
Multiple other fraternities, sororities, and spirit groups with documented violations

UT’s Hazing Transparency:

Public violation log at hazing.utexas.edu
Lists organizations, dates, conduct, sanctions
Valuable for Iredell families: Shows patterns that support negligence claims

How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Jurisdiction: Travis County courts (Austin)
Evidence Advantage: Public violation log provides prior notice evidence
University Liability: UT’s knowledge of patterns strengthens negligence claims

What UT Students & Iredell Parents Should Do:

Check UT’s hazing violation log for your child’s organization
Report through Dean of Students AND Austin PD if crimes occurred
Use public violation history to show patterns in legal claims
Understand that UT’s process is more transparent than most but still prioritizes institutional protection

University of Houston: Our Current Active Case

For Iredell families with Cougars (though farther at ~180 miles):

Our active litigation against UH and Pi Kappa Phi demonstrates what serious hazing cases look like in real time. UH is a large urban commuter school with approximately 47,000 students.

The Leonel Bermudez Case (Our Active Litigation):

Hazing Methods: “Pledge fanny pack” with degrading items; forced consumption until vomiting; hose spraying “like waterboarding”; extreme workouts
Medical Harm: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, brown urine, 4-day hospitalization
Defendants: UH, UH Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, housing corporation, 13 individual members
Institutional Response: Chapter suspended Nov 6, 2025; charter surrendered Nov 14, 2025; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”
Media Coverage: Click2Houston, ABC13, Hoodline

UH’s Hazing Policy & Response:

Standard prohibition in student code
Reporting through Dean of Students
Pattern: Quick chapter suspension but limited public transparency about prior incidents

How UH Hazing Cases Proceed:

Jurisdiction: Harris County courts (Houston)
Our Current Strategy: Comprehensive defendant approach targeting all liable parties
Evidence: Group chats, medical records, witness testimony, national fraternity files

What UH Students & Iredell Parents Should Do:

Medical attention FIRST—rhabdomyolysis can be fatal
Screenshot EVERYTHING before deletion
Report to UHPD AND Houston PD
Contact counsel experienced in Houston hazing litigation

Southern Methodist University and Other Texas Schools

For Iredell families at private universities:

SMU, Baylor, TCU, Rice, and other private institutions have different legal landscapes than public universities.

Key Differences for Iredell Families:

Less Sovereign Immunity: Private schools can’t claim state immunity protections
Contractual Relationships: Student handbooks often create contractual duties
Varied Transparency: Some private schools are less transparent than public ones
Insurance Coverage: Different insurance structures may affect recovery

SMU-Specific Considerations:

Affluent campus with strong Greek presence
Kappa Alpha Order incident (2017): Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation; chapter suspended
Reporting through SMU Conduct Office
Jurisdiction: Dallas County courts

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: What Iredell Families Are Really Dealing With

When your child joins a fraternity or sorority in Texas, they’re connecting to a complex network of legal entities, insurance policies, and national organizations. Understanding this ecosystem is crucial for holding the right parties accountable.

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: How We Track Responsibility

At Attorney911, we maintain what we call our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a comprehensive database of Texas Greek organizations built from public records. This isn’t theoretical; it’s concrete data we use to build cases for families like yours in Iredell.

What This Data Shows Iredell Families:

IRS B83 Backbone – 125 Texas-Registered Greek Organizations
These are the legal entities behind the letters at Texas campuses. Examples relevant to Central Texas families:

Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity – Texas Entities:

Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc, EIN 46-2267515, Frisco, TX 75035 (IRS B83 filing)
Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation, EIN 37-1768785, Missouri City, TX 77459 (IRS B83 filing)

Other Central Texas Greek Entities:

Kappa Sigma – Mu Gamma Chapter Inc, EIN 27-3662583, Lufkin, TX 75904 (IRS B83 filing)
Sigma Phi Epsilon Texas Eta, EIN 82-4398421, Richmond, TX 77406 (IRS B83 filing)
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – Texas A&M University Chapter, EIN 90-0293166, College Station, TX 77843 (IRS B83 filing)

Texas Universities – 96 Campuses
From our data analysis, Texas has 96 university campuses where Greek life operates. For Iredell families, the most relevant include those in Central Texas and major statewide hubs.

Cause IQ Metro Organizations – 1,423 Total Across Texas
Across 25 Texas metros, we track 1,423 Greek-related organizations. For the Waco metro (closest to Iredell), there are 27 such organizations. For the Dallas-Fort Worth metro, there are 510.

Why This Data Matters for Iredell Families:

Identifies All Potentially Liable Parties: Not just the active members, but housing corporations, alumni associations, and national entities
Shows Insurance Coverage Sources: Different entities carry different insurance policies
Documents Prior Notice: Organizational structures show who knew what when
Provides Litigation Targets: When one entity lacks assets, others may have coverage

National Fraternity/Sorority Patterns: History Repeats

The same national organizations involved in fatal hazing cases nationwide operate chapters at Texas schools attended by Iredell students. This history matters because it shows foreseeability—these nationals knew the risks but failed to prevent them.

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) – Pattern of Alcohol Deaths

Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State University, 2021 (alcohol poisoning death)
David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois University, 2012 (alcohol poisoning death)
$14 million settlement in Bogenberger case
Texas Presence: Chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, UH, Baylor
Lesson for Iredell families: Nationals with deadly patterns at other schools likely have similar risks at Texas chapters

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) – Chemical and Physical Abuse

Texas A&M Chemical Burns: 2021 case with skin grafts required
University of Alabama TBI Case: 2023 traumatic brain injury lawsuit
UT Austin Assault Case: 2024 lawsuit over severe injuries
Multiple other campuses with documented hazing injuries
Texas Presence: Chapters at all major Texas universities
Lesson: Physical abuse patterns repeat across states

Phi Delta Theta – Drinking Game Death

Max Gruver: LSU, 2017 (“Bible study” drinking game death)
Led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
Texas Presence: Multiple Texas chapters
Lesson: Specific hazing methods (drinking games) get repeated nationally

Pi Kappa Phi – Our Current UH Case

Andrew Coffey: Florida State University, 2017 (Big Brother night death)
Leonel Bermudez: University of Houston, 2025 (our current case)
Same national organization, same patterns years apart
Lesson: Nationals don’t always fix known problems after tragedies

How National Histories Strengthen Texas Cases

When we represent Iredell families, we use these national patterns to show:

Foreseeability: The national organization knew this type of hazing could cause injury/death
Inadequate Response: Their “anti-hazing” policies weren’t effectively enforced
Pattern and Practice: This wasn’t a “rogue chapter” but part of a systematic problem
Punitive Damages Basis: Reckless disregard for known dangers may justify punishment beyond compensation

For example, in our UH Pi Kappa Phi case, we can point to Andrew Coffey’s 2017 death at FSU to show the national organization had seven years to implement effective prevention but apparently failed.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Realistic Expectations for Iredell Families

If hazing has injured your child, understanding how cases are built helps you make informed decisions and avoid common mistakes that can destroy your chance at accountability.

Critical Evidence: What Wins Cases in 2025

Digital Communications (THE MOST IMPORTANT):

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage group chats: These often contain planning, execution, and cover-up discussions
Screenshot protocol: Capture full threads with timestamps, don’t crop excessively, save in native resolution
Deleted message recovery: Digital forensics can often recover “deleted” messages
Watch our video on using your phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

Photos & Videos:

Injuries immediately after and over several days (with scale reference)
Locations where hazing occurred
Objects used (paddles, alcohol bottles, props)
Social media posts/stories showing events

Medical Documentation:

Crucial: Tell medical providers you were hazed so it’s in the record
ER reports, lab results (especially blood alcohol, kidney function tests)
Follow-up care records showing ongoing issues
Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety)

Internal Organization Documents:

Pledge manuals, “tradition” documents
Risk management policies from nationals
Emails between chapter and national leadership
Membership rosters and officer lists

University Records:

Prior conduct violations for the same organization
Clery Act reports showing patterns
Internal emails about the organization
Obtained through discovery or public records requests

Witness Information:

Other pledges (often afraid but may cooperate later)
Former members who quit
Roommates, RAs, bystanders
Emergency responders

The Attorney911 Evidence Collection Protocol for Iredell Families

Based on our experience with the UH case and others, here’s what we recommend:

First 24 Hours:

Medical attention with explicit “hazing” documentation
Screenshot ALL group chats before deletion
Photograph injuries from multiple angles
Write narrative with who, what, when, where
Secure physical evidence (clothing, objects)

First Week:

Formal medical follow-up documenting ongoing issues
Report to campus police AND local police
Report to university conduct office (but don’t rely on their process)
Contact experienced hazing counsel
Backup all digital evidence to cloud/email

Ongoing:

Preserve social media without posting about the case
Keep journal of physical/psychological symptoms
Document any retaliation or pressure
Let your attorney handle all communications with university/insurers

Damages: What Iredell Families Can Recover

Understanding damages helps you evaluate what’s at stake. Categories include:

Economic Damages (Quantifiable):

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost educational costs (withdrawal, transfer expenses)
Lost income/earning capacity
Life care plans for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real):

Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress, PTSD, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life
Damage to family relationships

Wrongful Death Damages (If Tragedy Strikes):

Funeral/burial expenses
Loss of financial support
Loss of companionship, guidance
Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering

Punitive Damages (When Appropriate):

To punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
Available under Texas law in certain circumstances
Requires showing gross negligence or intentional harm

What Recovery Actually Looks Like:

Most cases settle confidentially before trial
Settlement amounts depend on injury severity, evidence strength, defendant resources
National fraternities often have insurance covering millions
Universities may settle to avoid bad publicity and trial
Funds typically cover: medical bills, ongoing care, educational continuity, and provide some measure of justice

Common Defense Strategies and How We Counter Them

When you sue a fraternity, sorority, or university, their lawyers use predictable defenses. Here’s what we expect and how we respond:

Defense: “The Pledge Consented”

Our Response: Texas law Section 37.155 says consent is not a defense. Power imbalance and coercion mean “consent” isn’t valid.

Defense: “This Was a Rogue Chapter”

Our Response: National’s prior knowledge of hazing patterns, inadequate supervision, and failure to enforce policies show systemic issues.

Defense: “It Happened Off-Campus”

Our Response: Location doesn’t eliminate duty. Nationals and universities still control/organize off-campus activities.

Defense: “We Have Anti-Hazing Policies”

Our Response: Paper policies without enforcement are meaningless. Show prior violations that weren’t properly addressed.

Defense: “University Sovereign Immunity”

Our Response: Exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual employee actions.

Defense: “Insurance Doesn’t Cover Intentional Acts”

Our Response: Negligent supervision claims may still be covered. Multiple insurance policies often exist.

Our experience with these defenses—particularly Mr. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney—gives us insight into how insurers and defense counsel think and strategize.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Iredell Families Facing Hazing

For Parents: Recognizing, Responding, and Protecting Your Child

Warning Signs Your Iredell Student May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food restriction or stress
Sleep deprivation (calls at 3 AM, all-night “events”)
Injuries to hands/back from paddling or exercise
Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if they don’t normally drink)

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and old friends
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive when asked about the group
Fear of “getting the chapter in trouble”
Constant phone use for group chat monitoring

Academic & Financial Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or falling asleep in class
Unexpected large expenses (“fines,” dues beyond advertised)
Buying excessive alcohol or gifts for older members

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing:

Ask open questions:
- “How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
- “What do they ask new members to do?”
- “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
Listen without judgment: If they open up, don’t yell or panic—listen first
Emphasize safety: “Your health and safety matter more than any organization”
Offer unconditional support: “We’ll help you no matter what”

If Your Child Is Injured:

Medical attention FIRST—even if they resist
Document everything they tell you (write it down with dates)
Preserve evidence (help them screenshot before deletion)
Do NOT confront the organization—this triggers evidence destruction
Contact experienced counsel within 24-48 hours

Dealing with the University:

Document all communications
Ask specific questions about prior incidents involving the organization
Don’t rely on “we’re investigating internally” as sufficient response
Remember: university conduct process ≠ legal accountability

For Students: Safety, Rights, and Next Steps

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide:

Are you being forced or pressured to do something unsafe?
Would you do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would your parents or university approve if they knew details?
Are you being told to keep secrets or lie?
If you answered YES to any, it’s likely hazing.

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

You cannot be punished for calling 911 in an emergency (good-faith reporter protection)
Hazing is a crime—you’re the victim, not perpetrator
Consent is not a defense under Texas law
You can request no-contact orders if being harassed after reporting

How to Exit Safely:

If in immediate danger: Call 911, get to safe location
To quit/de-pledge: Tell someone outside the org first, then send written resignation
Do NOT go to “one last meeting”—this is often for pressure/intimidation
Document any retaliation and report to university/police

Evidence Collection for Students:

Screenshots: Group chats with timestamps visible
Voice memos: Texas is one-party consent for recordings
Photos: Injuries, locations, objects used
Medical records: Tell providers you were hazed
Witness info: Names and contacts of others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

Based on our experience with the UH case and others, here are the most common—and costly—errors families make:

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages

Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; destroys crucial evidence
What to do instead: Screenshot EVERYTHING before deletion

2. Confronting the Organization Directly

Why it’s wrong: Triggers evidence destruction and witness coaching
What to do instead: Document silently, let your attorney handle communications

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms

Why it’s wrong: You may waive legal rights for inadequate settlements
What to do instead: NO signatures without attorney review

4. Posting on Social Media

Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
What to do instead: Document privately; let counsel control messaging

5. Waiting for University “Investigation”

Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters

Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you
What to do instead: “My attorney will contact you”

Watch our video on client mistakes that can ruin your case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

Hazing FAQ for Iredell Families

“Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity limitations, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual employee actions. Private universities (Baylor, SMU) have fewer immunity protections. Each case depends on specific facts.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law makes hazing a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the activities?”
Texas Education Code Section 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t valid consent.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist if the harm wasn’t immediately discoverable. In cases with cover-ups, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—call us immediately to preserve your rights.

Watch our video on Texas statutes of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

“What if the hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Many major cases (like Pi Delta Psi’s retreat) occurred off-campus and still resulted in judgments.

“Will my child’s name be public?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“How much does a hazing lawyer cost?”
We work on a contingency fee basis—no upfront costs, no fee unless we recover compensation for you. This makes quality representation accessible to all families.

Watch our video explaining how contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Why Attorney911 for Iredell Hazing Cases: Texas-Based, Nationally Relevant Experience

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Iredell and all of Bosque County, with specialized hazing litigation expertise proven in cases like our current $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

Insurance Insider Advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña’s Defense Background
Mr. Peña (he/him) spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Fight coverage under “intentional act” exclusions
Deploy independent medical exams to reduce settlements

His insider knowledge is invaluable when negotiating with the same insurance companies he once defended. As he says, “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation: Ralph Manginello’s BP Experience
Ralph Manginello was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation—taking on a billion-dollar corporation with unlimited legal resources. That experience directly applies to hazing cases because:

National fraternities and major universities have similar “deep pocket” defense strategies
Institutional cover-ups follow similar patterns
Complex multi-defendant litigation requires the same skills
Federal court experience matters for Title IX and constitutional claims

As Ralph notes, “We’re not intimidated by powerful defendants. We’ve faced them before.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results
Our firm has recovered millions for clients in:

Workplace wrongful death cases
Catastrophic brain and spinal injuries
Complex medical malpractice
Institutional negligence cases

This experience matters because hazing deaths and severe injuries require:

Economist collaboration for lifetime care costing
Life care planning for permanent disabilities
Understanding of non-economic damages (PTSD, loss of enjoyment)
Experience with punitive damages arguments

Criminal + Civil Dual Capability
Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)—an elite criminal defense organization—means we understand:

How criminal hazing charges interact with civil cases
How to advise witnesses/former members with potential exposure
Constitutional issues in searches of fraternity houses
Plea negotiations and their impact on civil liability

Investigative Depth and Expert Networks
We maintain relationships with:

Digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages
Medical specialists familiar with hazing injuries (rhabdomyolysis, TBIs)
Greek life culture experts who explain organizational dynamics
Economists for damage calculation
Psychologists for PTSD evaluation

In our UH Pi Kappa Phi case, this network helped us:

Obtain medical confirmation of rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
Document the “pledge fanny pack” humiliation system
Identify all 13 individual defendants plus organizational entities
Build a comprehensive case against the entire responsible network

How We Approach Hazing Cases Differently

1. Comprehensive Defendant Identification
We don’t just sue the obvious parties. Using our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we identify:

Individual members and officers
Local chapters
Housing corporations
Alumni associations
National headquarters
University entities
Third-party property owners
Insurance carriers

This maximizes potential recovery and accountability.

2. Digital Evidence Mastery
We know that group chats and social media are today’s crime scenes. Our protocols include:

Immediate screenshot preservation
Digital forensic recovery of “deleted” content
Social media evidence collection
Geolocation data analysis
Timeline reconstruction from digital footprints

3. Institutional Pattern Evidence
We subpoena national fraternity records to show:

Prior similar incidents at other chapters
Inadequate response to prior complaints
Policy vs. practice gaps
Knowledge of dangerous traditions

This turns “rogue chapter” defenses into evidence of systemic failure.

4. Strategic Settlement vs. Trial Decisions
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial because:

Trial readiness improves settlement leverage
Universities/fraternities know which lawyers will actually try cases
Some cases need public trials for accountability
We have federal court experience for complex litigation

But we also know most cases settle—we secure maximum value through strategic negotiation informed by our trial capability.

Our Commitment to Iredell Families

We understand that hazing cases are among the most difficult experiences a family can face. Your trust has been violated by organizations you believed were safe. Our approach combines:

Empathetic Support:

We listen without judgment
We explain options clearly without pressure
We respect your family’s privacy
We handle communication so you can focus on healing

Aggressive Advocacy:

We investigate thoroughly and quickly
We pursue all liable parties
We fight insurance company tactics
We prepare for trial when necessary

Educational Partnership:

We explain the process at every step
We provide realistic expectations
We answer your questions promptly
We empower you with knowledge

As Ralph Manginello says, “Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family.”

Call to Action: Your Next Steps as an Iredell Family

If you or your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Iredell, Bosque County, and throughout Central Texas have the right to answers and accountability. The organizations that harmed your child count on silence and confusion. We provide clarity and courage.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

We listen to your story without judgment
We review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
We explain your legal options: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
We discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
We answer your questions about costs (contingency fee—we don’t get paid unless we win)
No pressure to hire us on the spot—take time to decide
Everything you tell us is confidential

Clear Contact Information:

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 (Ralph Manginello), lupe@atty911.com (Lupe Peña)

Spanish-Language Services:

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

Why Act Now?

Evidence Disappears Fast:

Group chats are deleted within hours
Witnesses are coached on what to say
Physical evidence is destroyed
Universities begin their damage control

Statutes of Limitations Apply:

Generally 2 years from injury in Texas
But exceptions and complexities exist
Early action preserves all options

Your Child’s Recovery Matters:

Medical issues need documentation
Psychological trauma requires attention
Educational disruptions need addressing
The sooner you act, the more options you have

Final Thoughts for Iredell Families

Whether you’re in Iredell proper, nearby Morgan, Walnut Springs, or anywhere in Bosque County, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The same organizations that operate at Baylor, Texas A&M, UT, and UH have patterns of behavior that can be proven and challenged.

Our current case against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi shows what’s possible when families refuse to be silenced. Leonel Bermudez could have remained another hidden statistic. Instead, his courage in coming forward—and our commitment to fighting for him—has exposed systematic abuse and triggered chapter closure.

Your family deserves the same commitment to truth and accountability.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s discuss what happened, what your rights are, and how we can help you move forward with confidence and resolution.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of the Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Lawsuit:

Click2Houston (KPRC 2) coverage: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
ABC13 Eyewitness News (KTRK) coverage: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
Hoodline coverage: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos:

Using your cellphone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas statutes of limitations explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes that can ruin your case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website & Contact:

Main website: https://attorney911.com
Contact page: https://attorney911.com/contact/
Ralph Manginello profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Lupe Peña profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

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