Texas Hazing Laws: A Comprehensive Guide for Karnes County Families

It’s late at night. Your child, a student from Karnes County, Texas, is away at a university in Houston, Austin, College Station, Waco, or even Dallas. They text you, not with cheerful updates, but with a cryptic message like, “I can’t talk about it,” or “I just have to get through this week.” Maybe you notice unexplained bruises, extreme fatigue, or a sudden, desperate need to please older members of their new fraternity, sorority, club, or team. They seem distant, secretive, and anxious, and their grades are slipping. This isn’t the college experience you envisioned, and a chilling thought begins to form: Is this hazing?

This guide is for you. For families in Karnes County, in nearby Wilson County, Bee County, Atascosa County, Live Oak County, and Goliad County, and across the broader South Texas region, grappling with these unsettling questions. For parents sending their children off to universities that are meant to be places of learning and growth, not hidden danger. And for students themselves, who may feel trapped between loyalty to a group and their own safety and well-being.

We at The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, understand that the scenario above is not merely a hypothetical. It is a distressing reality for far too many families throughout Texas. Our comprehensive guide will demystify modern hazing, explain how Texas and federal laws address this insidious problem, and illustrate what patterns of abuse across the nation—and specifically at major Texas universities like the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University—reveal about its true cost. We will also outline the legal options available to victims and their families in Karnes County and throughout Texas who are seeking accountability and justice.

This article provides general information and is not specific legal advice. We serve families throughout Texas, including those in Karnes County who may have children attending schools near and far from their hometowns like Kenedy, Karnes City, Runge, and Falls City.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

Your child’s safety is our priority. If you believe your child is in immediate danger, please take these steps:

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:
- Call 911 for medical emergencies or immediate threats.
- Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We provide immediate guidance and support during such critical times—that’s why we are known as the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.
In the first 48 hours:
- Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.” Prioritize their health above all else.
- Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  - Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages (DMs) immediately.
  - Photograph any injuries from multiple angles and document their progression over time.
  - Save any physical items, such as damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or objects used in hazing.
- Write down everything while memory is fresh: who was involved, what happened, when and where it occurred, and any witnesses present.
- Do NOT:
  - Confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization directly.
  - Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal guidance.
  - Post details on public social media before consulting with an attorney.
  - Let your child delete messages, clear browser history, or “clean up” any evidence.
Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:
- Evidence disappears rapidly: group chats are deleted, physical objects vanish, and witnesses are coached.
- Universities often move quickly to control the narrative and internal investigations.
- We can help preserve crucial evidence and protect your child’s rights from the outset.
- Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

HAZING IN 2025: WHAT IT REALLY LOOKS LIKE

For families in Karnes County, many of whom may have grown up with a different understanding of college life, it’s crucial to recognize that hazing has evolved beyond caricatures. It’s no longer just superficial pranks or “boys will be boys” antics. Today, hazing is sophisticated, often hidden, and deeply damaging, impacting students psychologically and physically.

At its core, hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by one person alone or with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization. Critically, these acts must endanger the mental or physical health or safety of a student. The phrase “I agreed to it” does not automatically legitimize the act or make it safe or legal, especially when there’s an inherent power imbalance, intense peer pressure, and a deep desire for belonging.

Main Categories of Hazing

Modern hazing manifests in diverse and often overlapping ways:

Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is the most common and often deadliest form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking, such as chugging challenges, “lineups” where pledges consume large quantities of alcohol quickly, or games designed to ensure rapid intoxication. It also includes pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances, which can lead to severe health consequences. The Stone Foltz case at Bowling Green State University, where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink nearly an entire bottle of whiskey, serves as a stark warning of this pervasive risk.
Physical Hazing: Beyond the stereotyped paddling, physical hazing today includes extreme calisthenics, “workouts” or “smokings” far beyond normal conditioning, sleep deprivation (sometimes for days on end), and food or water deprivation. Students might be exposed to extreme cold or heat, forced into dangerous environments, or subjected to deliberate beatings and assaults.
Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These acts are designed to degrade and demean. They include forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (often grotesquely referred to as “elephant walks” or “roasted pig” positions), wearing degrading costumes, or acts with racist, homophobic, or sexist overtones including slurs and role-play. Such hazing not only inflicts deep humiliation but can also lead to severe psychological trauma.
Psychological Hazing: This category often preys on a student’s mental fortitude and self-esteem. It involves verbal abuse, threats, forced isolation from friends and family, and constant psychological manipulation. Public shaming, whether personally or through digital platforms, “mind games,” and creating an environment of fear and constant anxiety, falls under this umbrella. These tactics chip away at a student’s self-worth and independence.
Digital/Online Hazing: With the ubiquity of smartphones and social media, hazing has moved into the digital realm. This includes group chat dares, “challenges,” and orchestrated public humiliation via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Discord. There is also immense pressure to create or share compromising images or videos, or to engage in cyberstalking and harassment of other pledges or individuals deemed “outsiders.” The constant monitoring and demands through digital platforms can lead to perpetual sleep deprivation and intense stress. 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.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

Hazing is not confined to one type of organization or one gender. While fraternities and sororities, across various councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural), might be the most commonly associated with hazing, the reality is far broader. This abuse occurs in:

Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-style groups: These highly traditional and hierarchical organizations can sometimes foster environments where “tradition” is used to justify dangerous practices.
Spirit squads, tradition clubs: Groups like cheerleading teams, dance teams, and university-affiliated tradition clubs (such as those centered around campus landmarks or events) can also perpetuate hazing rituals.
Athletic teams: From football and basketball to baseball, track, and cheerleading, hazing is a documented problem across collegiate sports.
Marching bands and performance groups: Even seemingly innocuous musical or performance ensembles can have initiation traditions that cross the line into hazing. The tragic death of Robert Champion at Florida A&M during band hazing highlighted this issue nationally.
Some service, cultural, and academic organizations: While less common, any student group with a hierarchical structure and initiation rituals can fall prey to hazing.

The common threads across all these contexts are social status, tradition, and secrecy. These elements create an environment where dangerous practices persist, often rationalized as “bonding” or “earning your place,” even when everyone involved “knows” hazing is illegal and harmful. The fear of external consequences for the organization, combined with the student’s desire to belong, can lead to a pervasive culture of silence.

LAW & LIABILITY FRAMEWORK (TEXAS + FEDERAL)

For families in Karnes County facing the fallout of hazing, understanding the legal landscape is critical. Texas law provides a framework for addressing hazing, and federal regulations add another layer of protection.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

In Texas, specific anti-hazing provisions are primarily found in the Texas Education Code – Chapter 37, Subchapter F. This code broadly defines hazing as:

Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, 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.

This definition clarifies several crucial points:

Location is irrelevant: Hazing can happen whether it is on campus or off campus, including at private residences, Airbnb rentals, or remote retreats.
Harm is diverse: It encompasses both physical injuries (e.g., beatings, forced exercise, forced consumption of alcohol or drugs) and significant mental harm (e.g., extreme humiliation, intimidation, psychological manipulation).
Intent is broad: An act qualifies as hazing even if the perpetrator didn’t intend to cause severe harm, as long as they acted “knowingly” or “recklessly” (meaning they were aware of a substantial risk and disregarded it).
“Consent” is not a defense: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed “consented” to the hazing activity. This is vital because many perpetrators and organizations attempt to justify hazing by claiming the victim “volunteered.” The law recognizes that true voluntary consent is impossible under duress, peer pressure, or the threat of exclusion.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing in Texas

Texas law assigns criminal penalties for hazing:

A Class B Misdemeanor is the default for hazing that does not result in serious injury (punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2,000).
It escalates to a Class A Misdemeanor if the hazing causes an injury requiring medical treatment.
Crucially, hazing becomes a State Jail Felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. For families in Karnes County, this highlights the severe consequences reckless hazing can carry.
The law also penalizes individuals who fail to report hazing (if they are a member or officer and knew about it) or who retaliate against someone who reports hazing.

Organizational Liability

Organizations themselves – whether fraternities, sororities, clubs, or teams – can be criminally prosecuted for hazing. This occurs if the organization 1) authorized or encouraged the hazing, or 2) an officer or member acting in an official capacity knew about the hazing and failed to report it. Penalties for organizations can include fines up to $10,000 per violation and, critically, revocation of university recognition, effectively banning them from campus. This provision underscores that accountability extends beyond individual students to the group itself.

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting

To encourage reporting, Texas Education Code § 37.154 provides immunity: a person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university authorities or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability stemming from that report. Additionally, in genuine medical emergencies, Texas law and various university policies offer amnesty to students who call 911, even if they were underage drinking or involved in the hazing act.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

It is important for Karnes County families to understand the distinction between criminal and civil legal actions concerning hazing:

Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (through prosecutors) and aim to punish offenders with penalties like jail time, fines, or probation. Hazing-related criminal charges can include specific hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, and in tragic fatal cases, even manslaughter or negligent homicide.
Civil Cases: These are brought by victims or their surviving families, with the goal of securing monetary compensation and holding responsible parties accountable. Civil claims often focus on negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring or supervision, premises liability, and emotional distress.

Crucially, a criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for filing a civil lawsuit. Many successful civil hazing cases proceed even without accompanying criminal charges, as the burden of proof and specific elements differ significantly between the two types of claims.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also impact how hazing is addressed:

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation mandates that colleges and universities receiving federal aid must enhance transparency and prevention efforts related to hazing. By around 2026, institutions will be required to report hazing incidents more clearly, strengthen their educational and prevention programs, and maintain publicly accessible data on hazing violations. This will make it easier for families in Karnes County to research a university’s hazing history before their child enrolls.
Title IX / Clery Act: If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a gender-based hostile environment, it can trigger Title IX obligations, requiring universities to investigate and respond. The Clery Act requires institutions to disclose campus crime statistics, and hazing incidents that involve assaults, alcohol- or drug-related offenses may fall under these reporting requirements.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining who is legally responsible in a hazing incident is complex and depends heavily on the specific facts of each case. However, several parties can potentially be held liable:

Individual Students: Those who actively planned, enforced, supplied alcohol, carried out, or helped conceal the hazing acts can be held personally liable. The Daylen Dunson case, where a Pi Kappa Alpha president was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million to the Stone Foltz family, demonstrates the potential for massive individual liability.
Local Chapter/Organization: The fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself (if it is recognized as a legal entity) can be sued. This often includes individuals acting as officers, “pledge educators,” or those in leadership roles who directly supervised or sanctioned the hazing.
National Fraternity/Sorority: The national headquarters, which sets policies, collects dues, and is responsible for overseeing its local chapters, can be held liable. This liability typically hinges on their knowledge of prior hazing incidents, their control over the local chapter, and whether they adequately enforced anti-hazing policies or responded to warnings.
University or Governing Board: Universities can be sued under theories of negligence, gross negligence, or, in some cases, federal civil rights claims (like Title IX). Key factors include whether the university knew about prior hazing incidents within the organization, whether it adequately enforced its own hazing policies, and whether it acted with deliberate indifference to student safety. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) may assert sovereign immunity, but our firm understands exceptions for gross negligence or when suing individual employees in their personal capacities.
Third Parties: This can include landlords or owners of properties where hazing occurred, bars or other establishments that illegally furnished alcohol to minors (under dram shop laws), or event organizers who created a dangerous environment.

Every case is fact-specific, and not every party will be found liable in every situation. An experienced hazing attorney can help identify all potential defendants and build a strong strategy for accountability.

NATIONAL HAZING CASE PATTERNS (ANCHOR STORIES)

The devastating patterns of hazing across the United States have created a body of legal precedent that fundamentally shapes how these cases are litigated in Texas. For Karnes County families, understanding these national anchor stories isn’t just about sensational headlines; it’s about recognizing the common scripts of abuse, the recurring failures of institutions, and the significant victories secured by victims and their families. These cases demonstrate that while the location may change, the methods and consequences of hazing often remain tragically similar. This pattern evidence is critical for establishing foreseeability and supporting negligence claims against national organizations and universities.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most frequent and fatal form of hazing involves forced or coerced alcohol consumption. This pattern tragically repeats itself across campuses:

Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy Piazza died after a “bid acceptance” event turned into a night of extreme drinking. Security camera footage captured him falling multiple times, suffering traumatic brain injuries, while fraternity brothers delayed calling for help for nearly 12 hours. The aftermath led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the creation of Pennsylvania’s landmark Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. This case underscored how extreme intoxication, deliberate delays in seeking medical attention, and a pervasive culture of cover-up can escalate liability exponentially.
Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to consume them rapidly. Numerous fraternity members faced prosecution for hazing, and FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life to overhaul its policies. Coffey’s case highlights how deeply ingrained “formulaic drinking nights” are in fraternity culture, repeatedly leading to disaster.
Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game where pledges were forced to drink whenever they answered questions incorrectly. The subsequent criminal and civil actions led to the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, a felony hazing statute. This case demonstrated how public outrage and clear evidence of hazing can drive significant legislative change, providing stronger legal tools for accountability.
Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz tragically died from alcohol poisoning after a “Big/Little” pledge night where he was forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey. The incident resulted in multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members, and Bowling Green State University (a public institution) agreed to a nearly $3 million settlement with the family. Further settlements were reached with the national fraternity and individual members, bringing the total to $10 million. The Foltz case powerfully illustrated that universities can face significant financial and reputational consequences for hazing that occurs under their watch, alongside the fraternities themselves. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic cases.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualistic hazing can also lead to severe injury or death:

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng died after a brutal “glass ceiling” ritual during a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. Pledges were blindfolded and forced to endure repeated tackles while wearing weighted backpacks. Michael sustained fatal head injuries, and fraternity members dangerously delayed calling 911. Multiple members were convicted, and the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, subsequently banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years. This landmark case showed that geographically remote, off-campus “retreats” are often chosen precisely for hazing, and national organizations can be held criminally liable for the acts of their chapters.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it is a pervasive issue across various student organizations, including high-profile athletic programs:

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): Multiple former football players came forward alleging widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. The scandal led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern University and its coaching staff, the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who then filed his own wrongful-termination suit before a confidential settlement), and a national reckoning over hazing in collegiate sports. This case unequivocally proved that hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs, raising critical questions about institutional oversight and accountability.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies, while often occurring hundreds or thousands of miles from Karnes County, establish crucial patterns and legal precedents. They share common threads: forced intoxication, humiliation, physical violence, deliberate delays in medical care, and concerted cover-up attempts. They demonstrate that profound institutional change and multi-million-dollar settlements or verdicts frequently follow only after serious injury, death, and tenacious litigation.

For families in Karnes County with children enrolled at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, or any other Texas institution, these lessons are vital. The legal principles established in these high-profile cases can be applied in Texas courts to hold individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and universities accountable. They show that powerful institutions can be successfully challenged when their negligence or deliberate indifference leads to harm.

TEXAS FOCUS: UH, TEXAS A&M, UT, SMU, BAYLOR

For families in Karnes County, whether their children attend the nearby universities in San Antonio or Corpus Christi, or further afield in Houston, Austin, or College Station, the risk of hazing at major Texas institutions is a tangible concern. Hazing incidents at flagship universities can send ripples throughout the state, affecting students from small towns like Kenedy and Karnes City just as much as those from our large metropolitan areas. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Karnes County and across the region, including Bee County, Live Oak County, and Atascosa County directly to our west.

While these universities are beacons of learning, they are not immune to the pervasive problem of hazing. Our firm, Attorney911, has deep experience navigating legal challenges against powerful institutions throughout Texas.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

5.1.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Houston, located in the sprawling urban landscape of Houston, is a diverse and dynamic institution. With a significant mix of commuter and residential students, UH boasts a vibrant Greek life, encompassing dozens of fraternities and sororities across its various councils, alongside a wide array of student organizations, cultural groups, and sports clubs. As Southeast Texas’s largest university, many Karnes County families, alongside those in nearby Atascosa and Bee counties, look to UH as a top educational choice, especially given its extensive academic programs and proximity to the Houston job market.

5.1.2 Hazing policy & reporting

UH maintains a clear, strict anti-hazing policy, emphasizing that hazing is prohibited both on and off campus. Their policy explicitly bans forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and activities designed to cause mental distress as part of initiation or affiliation. UH provides multiple reporting channels, including the Dean of Students office, Student Conduct offices, and the UH Police Department (UHPD). The university also provides a hazing statement and some disciplinary information on its website.

5.1.3 Example incident & response

In 2016, a particularly severe incident involving a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter at UH came to light. Pledges allegedly suffered from insufficient food, water, and sleep during a multi-day event. One student reportedly sustained a lacerated spleen, among other injuries, after being violently thrown or slammed onto a hard surface. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and was promptly suspended by the university. While UH does not always publicize every detail of disciplinary actions, past records indicate willingness to suspend chapters and issue sanctions for conduct deemed “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” particularly when alcohol misuse and policy violations are involved. This incident highlights the acute dangers of physical hazing and the extreme lengths some organizations will go to.

5.1.4 How a UH hazing case might proceed

In cases originating from UH, the relevant law enforcement agencies could include the UH Police Department for incidents on campus, or the Houston Police Department (HPD) for off-campus events within Houston city limits. Civil lawsuits against individuals, the local chapter, national organizations, property owners, or potentially the university would typically be filed in courts within Harris County, which encompasses the City of Houston. Our Houston office is prepared to represent Karnes County families whose children attend UH, providing accessible legal counsel right in the heart of the city where their children study.

5.1.5 What UH students & parents should do

For UH students and their parents, proactive measures are paramount:

Report hazing activities immediately to the UH Dean of Students office, the Student Conduct office, or the UHPD. Utilize any anonymous reporting forms available on the university’s website.
Document everything: Keep meticulous records of communications, photos, and medical treatment. Prior complaints and known past incidents involving UH organizations can be crucial evidence.
Seek legal counsel immediately: Contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases, like Attorney911. Our understanding of UH’s internal processes and ability to uncover prior discipline and internal files can be invaluable.
Understand your rights: Be aware that UH has a responsibility to investigate hazing thoroughly and provide a safe environment for its students.

5.2 Texas A&M University

5.2.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Texas A&M University, a storied institution rooted in tradition, is known for its strong Aggie Spirit, its vast and dedicated alumni network, and its unique Corps of Cadets program. Located in College Station, deep in the heart of East-Central Texas, A&M fosters a culture of loyalty and pride. For families in Karnes County, A&M is a prominent destination for higher education, with its agricultural programs, engineering excellence, and the draw of the Corps. The university hosts a vibrant Greek life, alongside numerous other student organizations that contribute to its distinctive traditions.

5.2.2 Hazing policy & reporting

Texas A&M unequivocally prohibits hazing, both on and off campus, for any recognized or unregistered student organization. Their policies, enforced through the Office of Student Conduct and the Commandant’s Office (for Corps-related hazing), mirror state law definitions. A&M emphasizes prevention through education and provides clear channels for reporting, including a dedicated hazing hotline and online forms, as well as avenues through the university police department.

5.2.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

Texas A&M has faced significant hazing challenges, particularly within its Greek system and the Corps of Cadets, which often blend tradition with intense initiations.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon lawsuit (around 2021): This disturbing case involved two pledges who alleged that they were subjected to prolonged, strenuous physical exertion while substances including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit were poured on them. This highly dangerous chemical hazing resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries for both students. The chapter was suspended by the university, and the pledges pursued a $1 million lawsuit against the fraternity. This case perfectly illustrates the transition to more dangerous, clandestine hazing tactics.
Corps of Cadets lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a federal lawsuit alleging grotesque and degrading hazing. He claimed he was subjected to simulated sexual acts and, in another instance, was bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit, seeking over $1 million, alleged severe emotional distress and physical degradation. While A&M stated it handled the matter according to its rules, the case brought national attention to hazing risks within the Corps.

These incidents highlight the complex challenge A&M faces in distinguishing between “tradition” and illegal hazing, both within Greek life and its highly esteemed Corps programs.

5.2.4 How an A&M hazing case might proceed

In cases originating from Texas A&M, the involved law enforcement agencies could include the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) for on-campus incidents, or the Bryan Police Department or College Station Police Department for events within those respective city limits in Brazos County. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in courts within Brazos County. For Karnes County families, navigating a hazing case in the Brazos Valley requires specialized knowledge of local legal procedures and an understanding of A&M’s unique institutional culture.

5.2.5 What A&M students & parents should do

Be vigilant about “traditions”: Understand that while A&M cherishes tradition, any activity that endangers mental or physical health is hazing, regardless of its historical context.
Report immediately: Use the A&M hazing hotline, the Student Conduct office, or UPD for reporting.
Document “unofficial” activities: Hazing often happens at “unofficial” events or off-campus houses; meticulously document these.
Seek legal counsel: An attorney with experience in both Greek and Corps-related hazing cases can provide invaluable guidance for students and parents from Karnes County.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

5.3.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution nestled in the heart of the state capital, is renowned for its academic prowess, vibrant campus life, and deep-seated traditions. A significant number of students from Karnes County and surrounding areas in South Texas aspire to attend UT. The university boasts an extensive Greek system and countless student organizations, all contributing to its diverse and often intense social environment. Longhorn pride runs deep, but this culture can sometimes mask or enable troubling hazing practices.

5.3.2 Hazing policy & reporting

UT Austin maintains a robust anti-hazing policy that aligns with Texas Education Code. It explicitly prohibits any hazing acts for both recognized and unrecognized student organizations, emphasizing that consent is not a defense. UT stands out for its public transparency: the university hosts a dedicated Hazing Violations page on its website (deanofstudents.utexas.edu/hazing/) that lists organizations found responsible for hazing, the specific conduct, and the disciplinary actions taken. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students office, the Title IX Coordinator (if sexual misconduct is involved), the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD), and the Austin Police Department (APD).

5.3.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

UT’s public Hazing Violations page provides a candid, albeit concerning, look at ongoing hazing at the university. While the list changes, patterns of prohibited behavior frequently appear:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): The UT chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha was sanctioned after new members were directed to consume excessive amounts of milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. The university found this constituted hazing, placing the chapter on probation and requiring new hazing-prevention educational initiatives. This mirrors the pattern of physically demanding and consumption-based hazing seen in this national organization.
Other Groups: UT’s public records frequently list other fraternities (e.g., Sigma Chi, Phi Delta Theta) and non-Greek organizations (e.g., Texas Wranglers, other spirit groups, sports clubs) disciplined for various hazing behaviors. Common violations include forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, degradation, blindfolding, forced servitude, and punishment-based practices designed to humiliate or physically strain new members.

This level of transparency, while commendable in principle, underscores the persistent nature of hazing even at a university with clear policies and public reporting. It demonstrates that organizations often repeatedly engage in similar harmful behaviors despite prior sanctions.

5.3.4 How a UT hazing case might proceed

In hazing cases at UT Austin, law enforcement involvement could fall under the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) for on-campus incidents, or the Austin Police Department (APD) for off-campus events. Civil lawsuits against individuals, local chapters, national organizations, property owners, or the university would typically be filed in courts within Travis County, where Austin is located. For families from Karnes County, understanding how to leverage UT’s public hazing records can be a powerful asset in any civil claim, demonstrating a history of institutional knowledge and, potentially, inadequate response to known issues.

5.3.5 What UT students & parents should do

Consult UT’s Hazing Violations page: Before joining any organization, review its history. Repeated violations are a significant red flag.
Report immediately and thoroughly: Utilize UT’s official reporting channels, including the Dean of Students and the UTPD. The public reporting system can ensure accountability.
Document, document, document: Screenshot text messages, photograph injuries, save any physical evidence. UT’s transparency means that your documented evidence can be cross-referenced with official records.
Seek specialized legal counsel: A hazing attorney can help interpret UT’s public records, navigate university investigations, and build a strong civil case by connecting individual incidents to broader patterns of organizational and institutional negligence.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

5.4.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Southern Methodist University, situated in an affluent area of Dallas, Texas, is a prestigious private institution known for its strong academic programs and a vibrant, often prominent, Greek life. Many Karnes County students attending SMU come from families across South Texas seeking a top-tier private university experience. The campus culture emphasizes achievement, tradition, and community engagement, but like many universities with active social organizations, it has faced its share of challenges with hazing within its extensive fraternity and sorority system.

5.4.2 Hazing policy & reporting

SMU has strict anti-hazing policies that prohibit any activity, on or off campus, that endangers mental or physical health for the purpose of initiation, admission, or affiliation. As a private university, SMU’s internal reporting and disciplinary processes are often less publicly visible than those of state-funded institutions. However, they provide reporting mechanisms through the Dean of Students, the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, and campus police. SMU also utilizes systems like “Real Response” to encourage anonymous reporting of hazing and other risky behavior.

5.4.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

SMU has seen various hazing incidents within its prominent Greek community:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): One notable incident involved the Kappa Alpha Order chapter at SMU, which was reportedly suspended after allegations surfaced of pledges being paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and subjected to sleep deprivation. The chapter faced severe disciplinary action, including restrictions on recruiting and activities for several years. This incident underscored that even at private, well-resourced institutions, hazing persists within highly visible Greek organizations.
Other Incidents: While SMU’s disciplinary records are not as transparent as UT’s, investigations have historically led to sanctions, probation, and suspensions for other fraternities and sororities involved in various forms of hazing, from alcohol misuse to physical and psychological abuse. In 2024, SMU announced increased transparency measures, including providing more information about chapters on disciplinary probation related to hazing.

These incidents highlight the ongoing challenge SMU faces in ensuring that its vibrant Greek life adheres to its no-hazing policies, and that “tradition” does not supersede student safety.

5.4.4 How an SMU hazing case might proceed

Given SMU’s private status, civil lawsuits against the university, individuals, or organizations would generally not face sovereign immunity claims. Law enforcement jurisdiction would typically involve the SMU Police Department for on-campus incidents, and the Dallas Police Department for off-campus events within Dallas city limits. Civil litigation would proceed in courts within Dallas County. For Karnes County families, understanding the nuances of private university liability and how evidence can be obtained through discovery in a less publicly transparent environment is crucial.

5.4.5 What SMU students & parents should do

Familiarize yourself with SMU’s policies: Understand the specific rules and reporting mechanisms.
Document persistently: Since internal disciplinary actions might be less public, meticulous documentation of incidents, communications, and injuries becomes even more critical for building a strong case.
Utilize anonymous reporting: SMU’s “Real Response” system or the national Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE) can be options if fear of retaliation is a primary concern.
Consult a Dallas-experienced hazing attorney: An attorney familiar with navigating private university systems and Dallas County courts can provide strategic guidance and help uncover information that might not be readily available to the public.

5.5 Baylor University

5.5.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Baylor University, a private Baptist university located in Waco, Texas, is deeply rooted in its Christian faith and known for its strong community, academic rigor, and significant athletic programs. With a strong emphasis on character development and service, Baylor attracts students from across Texas, including Karnes County families seeking a faith-based educational environment. The university’s social scene includes a robust Greek life and numerous student organizations, all operating within Baylor’s unique values-driven framework.

5.5.2 Hazing policy & reporting

Baylor University strictly prohibits hazing as a violation of its student conduct policy and in accordance with Texas law. Its policies apply to all student organizations, whether officially recognized or not, and explicitly state that consent is never a defense. Baylor encourages reporting through its Chief Judicial Affairs Officer, Baylor University Police Department (BUPD), and various anonymous reporting systems, underscoring its commitment to fostering a safe campus environment. The university has, in the past, faced national scrutiny for broader institutional oversight failures, which impacts how hazing claims may be perceived and handled.

5.5.3 Selected documented incidents & responses

Baylor, despite its faith-based mission, has faced hazing incidents over the years, often bringing to light the tension between traditional student group initiations and university prohibitions.

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): A significant incident involved the Baylor baseball team. An internal investigation into hazing allegations led to the suspension of 14 players. The suspensions, staggered over the early part of the season, impacted team performance and highlighted that hazing extends to highly visible athletic programs, even at institutions like Baylor with strong moral codes.
Broader Context: Baylor’s history of scrutiny over its handling of sexual assault cases and Title IX matters (which led to the dismissal of its president and head football coach in 2016) adds a complex layer to any allegations of misconduct, including hazing. These past issues underscore the importance of vigilant oversight and prompt, transparent action in response to student safety concerns.

These incidents, ranging from Greek life to athletics, show that Baylor, like other institutions, must constantly balance its public commitment to safety with the actions of its student organizations.

5.5.4 How a Baylor hazing case might proceed

As a private university, Baylor does not benefit from sovereign immunity in the same way public Texas institutions do. Law enforcement involvement could include the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) for on-campus incidents, and the Waco Police Department (WPD) for off-campus events within Waco city limits. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in courts within McLennan County. For Karnes County families, considering a hazing case against Baylor would involve understanding the specifics of private university liability, and potentially drawing parallels to past institutional oversight challenges.

5.5.5 What Baylor students & parents should do

Understand the “No-Hazing” commitment: Baylor’s policies are clear; any activity that violates these policies, regardless of intent or historical justification, is prohibited.
Report through official channels: Use Baylor’s Chief Judicial Affairs Officer or BUPD, and follow up diligently.
Document all communications: Keep records of any discussions with university officials, as well as evidence of the hazing itself.
Seek legal advice: An attorney experienced with private university cases and McLennan County courts can help families from Karnes County navigate the unique aspects of a Baylor hazing claim.

FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES: CAMPUS-SPECIFIC + NATIONAL HISTORIES

For Karnes County families, it’s imperative to understand that hazing incidents at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor are rarely isolated. Most fraternities and sororities on these campuses are chapters of national organizations, whose histories are often checkered with repeated hazing violations, severe injuries, and even deaths spanning decades. These national histories are critical for establishing foreseeability and supporting arguments of negligence or gross negligence against the national entities themselves, as well as demonstrating institutional knowledge that could impact their Texas chapters.

Why National Histories Matter

National headquarters, despite having thick anti-hazing manuals and extensive risk management policies, often carry a heavy burden of past incidents. They are acutely aware of the dangerous patterns that resurface repeatedly: coerced alcohol consumption, violent “initiation” rituals, sleep deprivation, and public humiliation. These are not novel concepts for national fraternities and sororities; they are recurrent themes in their disciplinary and legal archives.

When a Texas chapter of a national organization—whether it’s Pi Kappa Alpha at UT Austin, Sigma Alpha Epsilon at Texas A&M, Phi Delta Theta at LSU (which impacts students from across Texas), or Kappa Alpha Order at SMU—repeats a script that led to a prior death, severe injury, or multi-million-dollar lawsuit involving another chapter, it can be a powerful piece of evidence. This demonstrates that the national organization had foreseeable knowledge of the risks involved and, potentially, failed to implement effective measures to prevent such conduct in its Texas chapters. This pattern evidence is central to claims of negligent supervision, training, or enforcement against national entities.

Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

Here, we will connect some of the major fraternities and sororities found at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor to their national hazing histories. This is not an exhaustive list but highlights common organizations with significant public records of hazing, underscoring the pervasive nature of this issue.

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor.
- National History: Pi Kappa Alpha has a particularly tragic history of alcohol-related hazing, especially involving “Big/Little” events. The most prominent case is the Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green State University (2021), where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume a bottle of whiskey. The national fraternity was included in the $10 million settlement for the family. In 2012, David Bogenberger died at Northern Illinois under similar circumstances, resulting in a $14 million settlement. These repeated incidents demonstrate a pattern of similar, dangerous alcohol hazing that nationals knew about and, critics argue, failed to effectively stop.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU.
- National History: SAE has faced numerous hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide, prompting the national organization to famously eliminate its traditional pledge process in 2014—a move that has had mixed success in practice.
  - 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): Pledges suffered severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts after industrial-strength cleaner, eggs, and spit were poured on them. They sued the fraternity for $1 million.
  - University of Texas at Austin (2024): An international student alleged assault by fraternity members, resulting in extensive orthopedic injuries. The chapter was already under university suspension.
  - Carson Starkey (California Polytechnic State University, 2008): Died from alcohol poisoning during a hazing ritual, prompting a substantial (though confidential) settlement.
- Such a pattern of incidents suggests a national organization wrestling with deeply entrenched hazing issues.
Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Baylor.
- National History: Phi Delta Theta was at the center of the Maxwell “Max” Gruver death at Louisiana State University (2017), where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning during a “Bible study” drinking game. This tragedy led to the Max Gruver Act, Louisiana’s felony hazing statute. This case demonstrated the national organization’s exposure to the severe consequences of its chapters’ hazing activities.
Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, and UT Austin.
- National History: Pi Kappa Phi was involved in the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University (2017), who died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Multiple members were prosecuted, and the university temporarily suspended all Greek life. This case, like others, underscores the dangers of alcohol-fueled “initiation” events often sanctioned through tradition.
Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ): Active at Texas A&M and SMU.
- National History: Kappa Alpha Order has faced numerous hazing suspensions and allegations across the country. SMU’s chapter, for instance, received a lengthy suspension after allegations of paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation (2017). Similar incidents have occurred at other universities, contributing to a pattern of alleged physical and alcohol hazing.
Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ): Active at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU.
- National History: Beta Theta Pi became nationally infamous for the death of Timothy Piazza at Penn State (2017), a case that garnered international attention for its extreme alcohol consumption, delayed medical care, and subsequent criminal prosecutions. While their national policies are strict, this tragic incident highlights the persistent challenges in enforcing them at the local chapter level.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy

These national histories are not mere anecdotes; they form the basis of a potent legal strategy. When a Texas chapter engages in hazing tactics that have injured or killed students at other chapters of the same national organization, it becomes demonstrably evident that the national body had ample forewarning. This can show that these national organizations, in many instances, failed to:

Meaningfully enforce their supposedly strict anti-hazing policies, treating them as token gestures rather than actionable directives.
Respond aggressively enough to prior incidents, resulting in minimal consequences that failed to deter future harmful behavior.
Adequately train and supervise local chapters, effectively allowing dangerous “traditions” to perpetuate.

Such patterns significantly impact:

Settlement leverage: They can lead to more substantial settlements from national organizations who wish to avoid public exposure of their repeated failures.
Insurance coverage disputes: Attorneys can argue that common exclusions for “intentional acts” do not apply to the national organization’s negligence in failing to prevent foreseeable harm, thereby compelling insurers to provide coverage.
Potential for punitive damages: In cases where defendants demonstrate a callous indifference to known risks, pattern evidence can be crucial in arguing for punitive damages—a financial penalty designed to punish egregious conduct and deter future similar acts.

For any family in Karnes County seeking justice for a hazing incident, connecting their child’s experience to these broader national patterns is a critical step in holding powerful institutions accountable.

BUILDING A CASE: EVIDENCE, DAMAGES, STRATEGY

For families in Karnes County pursuing a hazing case in the Texas legal system, building a compelling legal argument requires meticulous evidence collection, a clear understanding of potential damages, and a sophisticated legal strategy. This is not about speculation; it is about facts, precedent, and expert analysis.

Evidence

Modern hazing cases are often won or lost based on the quality and volume of evidence, much of which exists in the digital realm.

Digital Communications: This is arguably the most critical category of evidence in 2025. Group chat messages (GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Snapchat, TikTok DMs), text messages, and social media posts serve as invaluable records. They reveal planning, intent, knowledge of the hazing, who was involved, what was ordered, and what transpired before, during, and after the events. Even deleted messages can often be recovered through digital forensic experts. 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.
Photos & Videos: Any content filmed by members during hazing events, especially if shared in group chats or posted on social media, can be damning. This includes footage of injuries, humiliating acts, forced drinking, or dangerous stunts. Security camera footage from houses, bars, or other venues can also provide crucial timelines and visual details.
Internal Organization Documents: This category includes pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” lists, rules, or even unofficial “big/little” assignments. Emails and texts between officers about new members, “pledging,” or the events can reveal intent and instructions. National policies and training materials, especially how they were (or were not) disseminated and enforced, are also vital.
University Records: These are often obtainable through discovery in litigation or, for public universities, potentially through public records requests. They include prior conduct files (showing probation, suspensions, warnings for the same organization), incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices, Title IX complaints, and Clery Act reports (showing broader patterns of crime on campus).
Medical and Psychological Records: Comprehensive medical documentation of injuries is paramount. This includes emergency room reports, ambulance records, hospitalization details, surgery notes, lab results (e.g., blood alcohol content, toxicology, kidney function for rhabdomyolysis), and imaging (X-rays, CT scans, MRIs). For psychological harm, evaluations from licensed therapists or psychologists documenting PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation are critical in establishing non-economic damages.
Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are still incredibly powerful. This includes students who were hazed, current or former members who witnessed the events, roommates, RAs, coaches, trainers, or any other bystanders. Often, former members who quit or were expelled may be willing to provide honest testimony to expose wrongdoing.

Damages

When hazing results in injury or death, the law aims to compensate victims and their families for various forms of harm. The Manginello Law Firm meticulously calculates these damages to ensure full accountability. To learn more about how personal injury settlements are determined, you can watch our video, “How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onBzdkIWadY.

Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs related to physical and psychological recovery. It includes immediate care (ER, ICU stays, ambulance transport), surgeries, ongoing treatments, physical therapy, medications, and any necessary long-term care plans for catastrophic injuries such as brain damage or organ failure.
Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can disrupt a student’s academic and professional trajectory. This includes compensation for missed semesters, tuition and fees for courses dropped, lost scholarships, delayed entry into the workforce, and, in severe cases, reduced lifetime earning capacity if injuries lead to permanent disabilities or psychological barriers to employment.
Non-Economic Damages: These subjective, yet legally recognized, harms are designed to compensate for the victim’s suffering. This includes physical pain and suffering, emotional distress (trauma, humiliation, anxiety, PTSD), and the loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in hobbies, sports, or social activities previously enjoyed).
Wrongful Death Damages: In the most tragic hazing cases, where a student dies, surviving family members (parents, spouses, children) can recover damages for funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and the profound loss of companionship, love, and society. They can also seek compensation for their own grief and emotional suffering.

It’s crucial to reiterate that while we describe types of damages, we never promise or predict specific dollar amounts. Each case is rigorously evaluated based on its unique circumstances.

Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing litigation often involves multiple defendants, each with their own legal counsel and, crucially, insurance policies.

Insurance Coverage Fights: National fraternities, sororities, and universities often carry substantial insurance policies designed to cover liability claims. However, insurers frequently attempt to deny coverage by arguing that hazing, being an “intentional act” or “criminal act,” is excluded from their policies. They may also attempt to argue that certain defendants (e.g., individual students) are not covered.
Experienced Hazing Lawyers: Our firm, Attorney911, with Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), is adept at navigating these complex coverage disputes. We know how to identify all potential sources of coverage, challenge unjust exclusions, and compel insurers to fulfill their duty to defend and indemnify. This includes pursuing claims against individual homeowner’s policies, local chapter policies, national organization policies, and university umbrella policies.
Strategic Approach: We understand that every hazing case is a multi-layered legal challenge. Our strategy involves identifying all potentially liable parties, rigorously collecting a broad spectrum of evidence, and relentlessly pursuing full and fair compensation. This approach not only aims for justice for our clients but also pushes for systemic changes that can prevent future tragedies across Texas campuses.

PRACTICAL GUIDES & FAQS

For families in Karnes County, the moment of discovery or suspicion of hazing can be overwhelming. Knowing what steps to take—and what critical mistakes to avoid—is paramount. This section offers immediate, actionable guidance for parents, students, and even witnesses.

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Parents from Karnes County often face a unique challenge: their child is away at college in a distant city, making it harder to spot the subtle signs of distress. Here’s what to look for and what to do:

Warning Signs of Hazing:
- Unexplained injuries: Bruises, cuts, sprains, burns, or repeated “accidents” (e.g., “I fell downstairs”) that don’t quite add up.
- Sudden exhaustion: Extreme fatigue, chronic sleep deprivation, falling asleep at odd times.
- Drastic mood changes: Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, withdrawal from family or old friends, personality shifts.
- Secrecy: Refusing to discuss group activities, saying “I can’t talk about it,” or becoming defensive when asked directly about the organization.
- Constant phone use: Obsessive checking of group chats, anxiety when the phone pings, fear of missing “mandatory” communications.
- Changes in appearance: Neglected hygiene, changes in weight (loss or gain), dressing in specific clothes even when not required.
- Academic decline: Grades dropping suddenly, missing classes, inability to focus.
How to Talk to Your Child:
- Approach with empathy, not judgment. Start with “How are things going?” rather than “Are you being hazed?”
- Emphasize safety over status. Communicate that their well-being is your priority, and you support them unconditionally, even if they want to leave the group.
- Listen actively. If they open up, let them talk without interrupting or immediately offering solutions.
- Ask open-ended questions: “What do they ask you to do as a new member?” “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
If Your Child is Hurt:
- Get them immediate medical care. This is the priority. Document any injuries with photos, and ensure medical staff are aware of how the injuries occurred (i.e., that they were hazed).
- Document everything. Write down dates, times, names, what your child said, and any details of the incident. This contemporaneous record is invaluable.
- Save digital evidence. If your child shows you texts, group chats, or photos, screenshot them immediately or ask to photograph their phone screen.
- Contact a lawyer. Even if you’re unsure about legal action, an early consultation protects your options and helps preserve evidence.
Dealing with the University:
- Document every communication. Keep records of all emails, calls, and meetings with university administrators, including the Dean of Students or Student Conduct office.
- Ask specific questions. Inquire about prior incidents with the same organization and the university’s response.
- Understand their process. Universities have internal disciplinary procedures, but these often do not address civil liability or compensation. Don’t let campus officials deter you from seeking outside legal advice.

8.2 For Students / Pledges

For students from Karnes County, whether you’re at A&M, UT, UH, or elsewhere, the pressure to conform and “earn your place” can be immense. Here’s how to assess your situation and protect yourself.

Is This Hazing or Just “Tradition”? Ask yourself:
- Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
- Would I do this if I had a real choice, free from social consequences or being “cut”?
- Is this activity dangerous, humiliating, degrading, or illegal?
- Would my parents or the university approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
- Are older members making new members do things that they aren’t required to do themselves?
- Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?
- If you answered YES to any of these, it’s likely hazing. Remember that under Texas law, consent is not a defense.
Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: The law recognizes that in hierarchical groups, true consent is often impossible. The intense pressure to belong, fear of exclusion, and the power dynamic between older members and new members can make “agreement” meaningless. You can still pursue a case even if you felt you “agreed” to the initiation.
Exiting and Reporting Safely:
- If you are in immediate danger, call 911 immediately. Your safety is paramount.
- You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time, regardless of what they tell you about “financial obligations” or “loyalty.”
- Tell someone outside the organization first: A trusted parent, RA, professor, or friend.
- Send a clear message (text or email): State, “I am resigning my pledge/membership effective immediately.”
- Avoid confrontation: Do not attend “one last meeting” where you might be pressured or retaliated against.
- Utilize anonymous reporting: The National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE) is available 24/7. Most universities, including UH, Texas A&M, and UT, also have anonymous reporting systems.
Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Texas law, and many university policies, offer protections for students who call for help in an emergency, even if underage drinking or other minor rule violations were involved. Prioritize getting help for yourself or others without fear of severe disciplinary action.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were part of a hazing incident, whether as a victim, a participant, or a witness, and now carry guilt or fear, your perspective is crucial.

Your Testimony Matters: Your firsthand account and any evidence you possess can prevent future harm and potentially save lives.
Seek Legal Advice: You may need your own legal counsel to understand your rights and potential criminal or civil exposure. An attorney can help you navigate the process of cooperating with investigations while protecting your own interests.
Contribute to Accountability: Providing information can be an important step towards holding responsible parties accountable and enabling justice for victims. Attorney911’s criminal defense experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) means we can advise on both criminal exposure and civil liability.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Karnes County families, knowing what not to do is as critical as knowing what to do. These common mistakes can severely undermine a hazing case:

Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence: Parents often want to protect their child from further trouble, but deleting digital evidence (texts, GroupMe chats, photos) can look like a direct cover-up. It can harm credibility and make a case nearly impossible to build, and can even constitute obstruction of justice. Preserve everything immediately, no matter how embarrassing it may seem.
Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly: While emotions run high, directly confronting the organization or its members is counterproductive. They will immediately lawyer up, begin destroying evidence, coach witnesses, and build their defense. Call a lawyer before any direct confrontation.
Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms: Universities may pressure families to sign waivers or agreements for “internal resolution” that might waive your right to pursue further legal action. These often offer minimal concessions and are far below what a case might be worth in court. Never sign anything from the university without a lawyer reviewing it first.
Posting Details on Social Media Without Legal Advice: Sharing details of a hazing incident on public platforms, while understandable, can provide ammunition for defense attorneys. Inconsistencies between public accounts and legal statements can damage credibility, and you might inadvertently waive legal privileges. Document privately and let your lawyer control any public messaging.
Letting Your Child Go Back for “One Last Meeting” or Discussion: If the organization asks your child to meet to “talk things over” after an incident, it is often a ploy to coerce them or extract statements that can be used against them. Once you consider legal action, all communication should go through your attorney.
Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”: While universities initiate internal investigations, these processes are often slow, lack transparency, and prioritize institutional reputation over victim compensation. Evidence disappears rapidly, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations can run out. Preserve evidence now, consult a lawyer immediately, and understand that the university’s process is not the same as securing real accountability and compensation.
Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer: The at-fault parties’ insurance adjusters may contact you, claiming they just need your statement to “process the claim.” Their goal is to gather information that can be used against you and to settle for the lowest possible amount. Politically decline and state, “My attorney will contact you.” For more insights, you can watch our video, “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case,” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY.

8.5 Short FAQ

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?” Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individual employees in their personal capacity. Private universities (like SMU, 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 becomes a State Jail Felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can 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 prosecution. Courts recognize that “consent” given under peer pressure, power imbalance, or fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.
“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?” Generally, 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas. However, the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses begin to forget details, and organizations may destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. You can also watch our video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.
“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?” Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be held liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases (like Pi Delta Psi’s retreat hazing or Sigma Pi’s unofficial house hazing) 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?” Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. While some families choose public advocacy, you can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy interests while pursuing accountability.

ABOUT THE MANGINELLO LAW FIRM + CALL TO ACTION

When your family in Karnes County faces the devastating impact of hazing, you need more than just a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who intimately understand how powerful institutions—national fraternities, private universities, large public systems—fight back, and how to successfully navigate those battles. You need a firm that knows how to find the hidden evidence and stand up for your child.

Here at The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, we bring a unique blend of experience and insight to hazing cases throughout Texas. From our Houston office, we serve families across the entire state, including Karnes County and its surrounding areas like Kenedy, Karnes City, and Runge. We recognize that hazing at Texas universities impacts families far beyond college towns.

Our firm offers distinct advantages in complex hazing litigation:

Insurance Insider Advantage with Lupe Peña: Our Associate Attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. This invaluable experience means she knows precisely how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and often undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and their settlement strategies because she used to be on their side. We know their playbook because we used to run it.
Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions with Ralph Manginello: Our Managing Partner, Ralph P. Manginello, has a quarter-century of experience taking on formidable adversaries. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the historic BP Texas City explosion litigation, a testament to his capability in complex federal court cases against billion-dollar corporations. This experience means our firm is not intimidated by national fraternities, multi-billion-dollar university systems, or their well-resourced defense teams. We’ve taken on massive corporations and won. We know how to fight powerful defendants.
Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, collaborating with economists to accurately value the profound loss of life. We also understand the intricate needs of cases involving catastrophic injuries, such as brain damage or permanent disability, and how to build comprehensive life care plans that force accountability for lifelong care. We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.
Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the elite Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a deep understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual perspective allows us to expertly advise victims, witnesses, and former members who may face both civil and criminal exposure.
Investigative Depth: We deploy a wide network of experts—medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists—to meticulously build your case. We excel at obtaining hidden evidence, including recovering deleted group chats, subpoenaing national fraternity records that reveal prior incidents, and uncovering vital university files through discovery and public records requests. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

We understand that hazing cases present unique challenges. They involve powerful institutional defendants, complex insurance coverage battles, and the delicate balance of seeking accountability while protecting a victim’s privacy. Our firm specializes in understanding the intricacies of Greek culture, Corps traditions, and the psychological dynamics of coercion to effectively prove your case.

We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We believe in thorough investigation, relentless advocacy, and achieving real accountability, not just quick settlements. We value open communication; you can watch our video, “Will You Keep Me Updated on My Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JrQowOLv1k.

If you or your child, whether from Karnes County or anywhere else in Texas, experienced hazing at any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Karnes County and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to what happened without judgment, explain your legal options clearly, and help you decide on the best path forward for your family. There is no pressure to hire us on the spot—take the time you need to decide. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. You can watch our video explaining contingency fees at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

Call us today to schedule your free 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 – Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

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

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

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