Hazing at Texas Universities: A Definitive Guide for Killeen Families

Immediate Help for Hazing Emergencies

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

Call 911 for medical emergencies immediately
Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

First 48-Hour Priority Checklist for Killeen Parents:
✅ Medical: Get emergency care for any injuries or intoxication
✅ Evidence: Screenshot ALL group chats, texts, social media immediately
✅ Documentation: Photograph injuries from multiple angles
✅ Notes: Write down everything your child tells you (dates, times, names)
✅ Legal Guidance: Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation

Do NOT:

Confront the fraternity/sorority directly
Sign anything from the university or insurance company
Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence
Post details on public social media before consulting an attorney

1. For Killeen Parents: When Your Child’s College Dream Becomes a Nightmare

Imagine receiving that late-night call every parent in Killeen fears. Your child—the one you dropped off at college just months ago, filled with promise and excitement about joining a respected campus organization—is now in a hospital bed. They’re bruised, exhausted, and struggling to explain what happened. The story emerges in fragments: forced drinking, humiliating rituals, sleep deprivation, and a culture of silence that prevented them from seeking help sooner.

This isn’t a hypothetical scenario. Right now, as we write this guide for families across Bell County and throughout Texas, we’re actively litigating one of the most severe hazing cases in recent Texas history. Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after enduring brutal hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. His urine turned brown, he couldn’t stand without assistance, and he spent four days hospitalized with critical medical indicators. The details—forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting; being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”; 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion—reveal a pattern of abuse that continues despite decades of anti-hazing laws.

For parents in Killeen, whose children attend Texas A&M University-Central Texas, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, or who travel to larger campuses like UT Austin, Texas A&M College Station, or the University of Houston, understanding hazing’s modern reality is critical. This comprehensive guide provides what Killeen families need: clear information about Texas hazing laws, documented patterns at major Texas universities, and practical steps to protect your child and seek accountability when things go wrong.

What This Guide Offers Killeen Families

We’ve created this definitive resource specifically for families in Killeen, Harker Heights, Nolanville, and across Bell County who face the complex reality of campus hazing. Here you’ll find:

Modern Hazing Realities: What hazing actually looks like in 2025—beyond the stereotypes
Texas Legal Framework: Clear explanations of criminal and civil hazing laws that protect your child
University-Specific Intelligence: Documented patterns at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor
Fraternity/ Sorority Histories: How national organizations’ patterns affect local chapters
Practical Action Plans: Step-by-step guidance for parents and students
Legal Strategy Insights: How experienced hazing attorneys build cases against powerful institutions

Whether your child attends school here in Bell County or at a campus hours from Killeen, Texas law and experienced Texas counsel can help. The trauma doesn’t respect county lines, and neither should the accountability.

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

The Modern Definition Killeen Parents Need

Hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or “harmless tradition.” Under Texas law, hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that endangers mental or physical health and occurs for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in any organization. The critical element many Killeen families miss: “Consent” is not a defense in Texas. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the law recognizes that power imbalances and social pressure make true consent impossible.

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (Often Dismissed as “Tradition”)

24/7 Digital Control: Constant group chat monitoring, required immediate responses at all hours
Servitude Requirements: Forced chauffeuring, cleaning members’ rooms, running errands
Social Isolation: Cutting off contact with non-members, requiring permission to socialize
Sleep Interference: Mandatory late-night meetings during exam periods

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Creates Hostile Environment)

Verbal Abuse: Yelling, screaming, degrading language, threats of expulsion
Sleep Deprivation: 3 AM wake-up calls, multi-day events with minimal rest
Forced Consumption: Spoiled food, excessive bland foods, hot sauce, unpleasant substances
Public Humiliation: Embarrassing costumes, public performances, “roasting” sessions
Extreme Exercise: “Smokings” with hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (High Risk of Injury or Death)

Forced Alcohol Consumption: “Lineup” drinking games, Big/Little nights with handles of liquor
Physical Beatings: Paddling, punching, kicking, “branding” with burns or cuts
Dangerous Rituals: Blindfolded tackles, forced fights, swimming while intoxicated
Sexualized Abuse: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault
Chemical Exposure: Industrial cleaners poured on skin (as in Texas A&M SAE case)

Where Hazing Happens in Texas University Life

Killeen families should understand that hazing extends far beyond fraternity houses:

Fraternities and Sororities: IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC (Divine Nine), multicultural Greek organizations
Corps of Cadets & ROTC: Military-style traditions with documented abuse patterns
Athletic Teams: Football, basketball, baseball, cheerleading, and other sports programs
Spirit Organizations: Texas Cowboys, cheer groups, tradition-keeping clubs
Marching Bands & Performing Arts: Documented hazing in elite programs nationwide
Academic & Service Organizations: Even honor societies and service groups

The common thread isn’t the type of organization but the power dynamics, secrecy, and tradition that enable abuse to continue generation after generation.

3. Texas Hazing Law: What Killeen Families Must Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions that apply whether your child attends school in Bell County or anywhere in the state. Here’s what Killeen parents need to understand:

§ 37.151 Definition: Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers physical or mental health for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership. This applies on or off campus and includes both physical and psychological harm.

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (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

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability: Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can face criminal prosecution and fines up to $10,000 per violation if they authorize or encourage hazing, or if officers knew and failed to report.

§ 37.155 Critical Protection: Consent is NOT a defense. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, Texas law recognizes that true consent is impossible under coercive conditions.

§ 37.154 Reporter Immunity: Students who report hazing in good faith are immune from civil or criminal liability. Many universities extend this to medical amnesty—no underage drinking charges if calling 911 for someone in danger.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases (State vs. Individuals):

Prosecuted by district attorneys (Bell County DA for local incidents)
Aim: Punishment through jail, fines, probation
Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases
Burden of proof: “Beyond a reasonable doubt”

Civil Cases (Your Family vs. Responsible Parties):

Filed by victims or surviving families
Aim: Compensation for damages and institutional accountability
Legal theories: Negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability
Burden of proof: “Preponderance of evidence” (more likely than not)

Critical Insight: These cases can proceed simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t required to pursue civil justice, and the evidence standards differ significantly.

Federal Laws Overlaying Texas Cases

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
Mandates public hazing databases by approximately 2026
Strengthens prevention education requirements
Applies to all Texas public universities and most private ones

Title IX Implications:

When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility
Creates additional reporting and investigation obligations
Can provide alternative accountability pathways

Clery Act Requirements:

Mandates crime reporting including assault and alcohol offenses
Hazing incidents often trigger Clery reporting obligations
Creates paper trails that can support civil cases

Who Can Be Held Liable in Hazing Cases

Killeen families should understand the full spectrum of potential defendants:

1. Individual Students:

Those who planned, executed, or facilitated the hazing
Members who supplied alcohol or participated in abuse
Officers who knew and failed to report or intervene

2. Local Chapter/Organization:

The fraternity/sorority chapter as an entity
Housing corporations that own chapter facilities
Alumni boards that supervise or fund activities

3. National Headquarters:

Organizations that set policies, collect dues, and oversee chapters
Can be liable for “foreseeability” based on prior incidents nationwide
Often carry significant insurance coverage

4. Universities & Governing Boards:

Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) with potential sovereign immunity limitations
Private universities (SMU, Baylor) with fewer immunity protections
Liability based on knowledge, response, and duty to protect students

5. Third Parties:

Property owners/landlords of off-campus houses
Bars or alcohol providers under dram shop laws
Security companies hired for events

4. National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: A Repeating Nightmare

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

What Happened: 20-year-old pledge forced to consume entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Medical Outcome: Died from alcohol poisoning
Legal Results: Multiple criminal convictions; $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Killeen Relevance: The same “Big/Little” drinking tradition exists at Texas Pi Kappa Alpha chapters

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

What Happened: Pledge forced to participate in “Bible study” drinking game; wrong answers = forced drinking
Medical Outcome: Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
Legal Results: Felony hazing convictions; Louisiana passed Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony
Killeen Relevance: Phi Delta Theta operates chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, and other Texas schools

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

What Happened: Bid acceptance night with extreme drinking; falls captured on chapter cameras; delayed medical care
Medical Outcome: Died from traumatic brain injuries
Legal Results: 18 members charged with over 1,000 counts; Pennsylvania passed Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law
Killeen Relevance: Beta Theta Pi has chapters at UT Austin and Texas A&M

Physical & Ritualized Hazing: Beyond Alcohol

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

What Happened: Pledge blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
Medical Outcome: Died from traumatic brain injury; help delayed
Legal Results: National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Killeen Relevance: Shows national organizations can face criminal conviction, not just civil liability

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

What Happened: Pledge forced to drink excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal” night
Medical Outcome: Severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
Legal Results: Settlements with 22 defendants; multi-million dollar compensation
Killeen Relevance: Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) has active chapters at UT Austin and Texas A&M

Athletic Program Hazing: Not Just Greek Life

Northwestern University Football Program (2023-2025)

What Happened: Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Legal Results: Multiple lawsuits; head coach fired and settled wrongful-termination claim; confidential settlements with players
Killeen Relevance: Major athletic programs at Texas universities face similar scrutiny

Western Kentucky University Swim Team (2012-2015)

What Happened: Investigation revealed hazing including verbal/physical abuse
Legal Results: Program suspended for five years; coaching staff terminated; $75,000 settlement with former member
Killeen Relevance: Club sports and athletic teams across Texas face hazing allegations

What These National Cases Mean for Killeen Families

Pattern Recognition: The same dangerous behaviors repeat across campuses and organizations
Foreseeability: National headquarters know these risks from prior incidents
Delayed Care Culture: Fear of “getting in trouble” often delays 911 calls, worsening outcomes
Cover-Up Tendencies: Organizations routinely destroy evidence and intimidate witnesses
Legal Evolution: Each tragedy drives legislative reform that benefits future victims

5. Texas University Focus: Where Killeen Students Attend

Understanding Killeen’s University Connections

Families in Killeen, Fort Hood, and across Bell County send students to diverse campuses:

Local Bell County Campuses:

Texas A&M University-Central Texas (Killeen)
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (Belton)

Regional Universities Killeen Families Choose:

University of Texas at Austin (2-hour drive)
Texas A&M University (College Station, 2-hour drive)
Baylor University (Waco, 1-hour drive)
Texas State University (San Marcos, 2-hour drive)
University of Houston (3-hour drive)

Each campus has unique Greek life, traditions, and documented hazing patterns that Killeen parents must understand.

University of Houston: The Active Litigation Case

The Leonel Bermudez Lawsuit – Our Current Case
We’re actively litigating this $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit that reveals systemic problems at UH. Here’s what Killeen families need to know:

Timeline of Abuse:

September 16, 2025: Bermudez accepts bid to Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter
September-October: Forced dress codes, hours-long “study/work” blocks, weekly interviews, overnight chauffeuring duties
October 13: Another pledge hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour
November 3: Bermudez forced through 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats
November 6-9: Hospitalized for four days with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure

Specific Hazing Methods:

“Pledge Fanny Pack”: Required to carry 24/7 containing condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices, humiliating items
Physical Abuse: Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, cold-weather exposure, lying in vomit-soaked grass
“Waterboarding” Simulation: Sprayed in face with hose, threatened with actual waterboarding
Forced Consumption: Milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting, then immediate sprints

Medical Consequences:

Critically high creatine kinase levels confirming rhabdomyolysis
Acute kidney failure requiring hospitalization
Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage
Psychological trauma recovery

Institutional Response:

November 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters suspends Beta Nu chapter
November 14, 2025: Chapter members vote to surrender charter; chapter shut down
UH Statement: Conduct called “deeply disturbing,” promises disciplinary action up to expulsion, cooperation with law enforcement

Defendants in Lawsuit:

University of Houston
UH System Board of Regents
Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu housing corporation
13 individual fraternity leaders/members

Why This Matters for Killeen Families:

Active Litigation Proof: We’re currently fighting this case—not just discussing past events
Medical Severity: Shows hazing can cause permanent organ damage, not just bruises
Multiple Liable Parties: Demonstrates how we identify all responsible entities
Pattern Evidence: Similar behaviors occur at other Texas campuses

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture and Greek Life Complexities

For Killeen Families with Aggie Connections:
Many Bell County students choose Texas A&M for its traditions and opportunities. Understanding A&M’s dual hazing environments—Greek life and Corps of Cadets—is essential.

Corps of Cadets Documented Cases:

2023 Lawsuit: Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
Sought over $1 million in damages
Texas A&M Response: Stated matter handled under Corps regulations
Pattern: Similar allegations surface periodically despite reforms

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

What Happened: Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns
Medical Outcome: Required skin graft surgeries
Legal Action: Pledges sued fraternity for $1 million
University Response: Fraternity suspended for two years

Texas A&M Hazing Response System:

Student Conduct Office investigations
Corps-specific regulations and discipline
Public transparency varies by case
Historical pattern of addressing issues internally first

Killeen-Specific Considerations:

Geographic Proximity: Many Killeen students choose A&M for relatively close location
Military Connections: Fort Hood families often gravitate toward Corps programs
Greek Life Scale: Over 60 fraternities and sororities create monitoring challenges
Tradition Culture: Some defend abusive practices as “tradition”

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency with Persistent Problems

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Database
Unlike many universities, UT maintains a public hazing violations log—a valuable resource for Austin-area families and those across Texas.

Recent Documented Violations:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023 Violation):

Conduct: New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
Finding: Hazing confirmed
Sanction: Chapter probation, required hazing-prevention education

Texas Wranglers (Multiple Violations):

Spirit organization with repeated hazing findings
Forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, punishment-based practices
Sanctions include suspension and membership restrictions

UT’s Greek Life Scale:

Approximately 60 fraternity/sorority chapters
Multiple governing councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
Ongoing tension between tradition and safety

Why UT’s Transparency Matters for Killeen Families:

Prior Pattern Evidence: Public violations support negligence arguments in civil cases
Notice to Nationals: Documented incidents put national headquarters on notice
Comparative Analysis: Shows which organizations have repeated problems
Accountability Measure: Public scrutiny creates pressure for reform

Southern Methodist University: Private University Challenges

SMU’s Greek Life Dominance
As a private university with affluent student body, SMU’s Greek life represents different challenges for Dallas-area families and those across Texas.

Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017):

What Happened: New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep
University Response: Chapter suspended; recruiting restrictions until approximately 2021
Pattern: Similar allegations have surfaced about this organization nationally

SMU’s Hazing Prevention Systems:

Anonymous reporting via Real Response system
Greek life office oversight
Private university discretion in transparency
Alumni influence on organizational culture

Unique Challenges for Private Universities:

Less Public Reporting: Not subject to same open records laws as public universities
Alumni Pressure: Donors and influential graduates may resist harsh sanctions
Reputation Management: Strong incentives to handle issues quietly
Selective Transparency: Public knows only what university chooses to disclose

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Accountability Challenges

Baylor’s Complex History
Following high-profile sexual assault scandals, Baylor faces particular scrutiny around all forms of student misconduct, including hazing.

Baylor Baseball Hazing Incident (2020):

What Happened: 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Response: Staggered suspensions during early season
Context: Part of broader cultural reckoning at Baylor

Baylor’s Greek Life Context:

Religious identity creates unique dynamics
“Zero tolerance” rhetoric vs. implementation reality
Ongoing reform efforts following prior scandals

Considerations for Central Texas Families:

Geographic Proximity: Baylor’s Waco location attracts many Central Texas students
Religious Values Alignment: Some Killeen families choose Baylor for faith-based education
Accountability Scrutiny: Baylor faces heightened oversight following prior failures
Cultural Change Challenges: Traditional campus cultures resist reform

6. Fraternity & Sorority National Histories: Pattern Recognition for Killeen Families

Why National Histories Matter

When your child joins a chapter at a Texas university, they’re connecting to a national organization with decades of history—including documented hazing patterns. These histories create legal “foreseeability”—the concept that national headquarters should have anticipated and prevented repeated dangerous behaviors.

High-Risk Organizations with Documented Patterns

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) – Documented Fatal Pattern:

Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State, 2021): Alcohol poisoning death during Big/Little night
David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois, 2012): Alcohol poisoning death; $14 million settlement
Texas Chapters: Active at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, and other campuses
Pattern: Big/Little drinking traditions repeatedly cause deaths nationwide

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) – Chemical and Physical Abuse:

University of Alabama Case (2023): Pledge suffered traumatic brain injury; lawsuit alleges fraud and negligence
Texas A&M Case (2021): Chemical burns from industrial cleaner; $1 million lawsuit
UT Austin Case (2024): Exchange student assaulted; over $1 million lawsuit
Pattern: Multiple hazing methods including physical violence and chemical exposure

Pi Kappa Phi – Active Litigation Case:

Leonel Bermudez (University of Houston, 2025): Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure; our active $10 million lawsuit
Andrew Coffey (Florida State, 2017): Alcohol poisoning death
Pattern: Physical endurance hazing causing medical emergencies

Phi Delta Theta – Drinking Game Fatalities:

Max Gruver (LSU, 2017): “Bible study” drinking game death; Louisiana felony hazing law
National Response: Implemented alcohol-free housing policies
Pattern: Academic-themed drinking games with fatal consequences

The Legal Concept of Foreseeability

What Killeen Families Should Understand:
When a national organization has documented hazing incidents causing injury or death at other chapters, they have “constructive notice” that similar behaviors could occur at Texas chapters. This strengthens negligence claims by showing:

Prior Knowledge: Headquarters knew or should have known about risks
Inadequate Prevention: Existing policies failed to prevent repeat incidents
Pattern Recognition: Same dangerous traditions travel between chapters
Failure to Supervise: Insufficient oversight allowed behaviors to continue

How We Use National Histories in Texas Cases

Our investigation in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates how national patterns matter:

Subpoena National Records: Obtain prior incident reports from other chapters
Document Policy-Enforcement Gaps: Show anti-hazing manuals weren’t meaningfully enforced
Establish Foreseeability: Prove national knew about similar physical endurance hazing
Identify Systemic Failures: Show organizational culture prioritized tradition over safety

7. Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery

Modern Evidence Collection: The Digital Landscape

Group Chats & Messaging Apps (Critical Evidence):

GroupMe: Most common fraternity/sorority communication platform
WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: Encrypted apps increasingly used for sensitive discussions
iMessage/SMS Group Texts: Often contain planning and aftermath discussions
Discord/Slack: Organizational communication with searchable histories
Fraternity-Specific Apps: Custom platforms with member communications

Preservation Protocol for Killeen Families:

IMMEDIATE Screenshots: Capture full threads with timestamps and participant names
Cloud Backup: Upload to secure cloud storage immediately
Forensic Preservation: Don’t delete anything—even embarrassing content
Documentation Log: Create index of what messages show and when sent

Social Media Evidence:

Instagram Stories: 24-hour disappearing content must be captured immediately
Snapchat: Screenshot before messages vanish
TikTok/YouTube: Videos of events or discussions
Facebook Groups: Private group discussions about activities
Location Tags/Check-ins: Place hazing at specific locations

Physical Evidence Often Overlooked:

Medical Records: ER reports must specify “hazing” as cause
Clothing: Don’t wash items with stains or damage
Objects: Paddles, props, alcohol bottles used in rituals
Receipts: Forced purchases of alcohol or supplies
Photographs: Injuries should be photographed daily to show progression

Damages Framework: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical Expenses:

Emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries
Ongoing therapy (physical, occupational, psychological)
Future medical needs for permanent injuries
Life Care Plans for catastrophic cases like traumatic brain injury

Lost Income & Earning Capacity:

Missed semesters of education
Delayed workforce entry
Diminished Earning Capacity for permanent disabilities
Parental income loss if providing care

Non-Economic Damages (Compensating Harm):

Physical Pain & Suffering:

Documented pain from injuries
Ongoing discomfort from permanent conditions
Loss of physical abilities and mobility

Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm:

PTSD Diagnosis: Common in hazing survivors
Depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation
Humiliation, shame, loss of dignity
Survivor’s Guilt: If others were also harmed

Loss of Enjoyment of Life:

Inability to participate in college experience
Damaged relationships and social isolation
Lost educational opportunities

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of financial support
Loss of Companionship for parents and siblings
Grief and emotional suffering
Parents’ therapy and counseling costs

Settlement vs. Trial Realities

Most Cases Settle Confidentially:

Advantages: Faster resolution, privacy, certainty
Disadvantages: May involve non-disclosure agreements, potentially lower compensation
Common Settlement Ranges:
- Death Cases: $1-14 million based on national precedents
- Severe Injury: $375,000 to multi-million depending on permanence
- Individual Officer Liability: Personal judgments up to $6.5 million (see Daylen Dunson Pi Kappa Alpha case)

Trial Considerations:

Advantages: Public accountability, potentially higher awards, establishing precedent
Disadvantages: Lengthy process, publicity, uncertainty
Our Philosophy: Prepare every case for trial to maximize settlement leverage

Insurance Coverage Complexities

Why Lupe Peña’s Defense Background Matters:
As a former insurance defense attorney, Mr. Peña understands how fraternity and university insurers:

Set Reserves: Calculate minimum amounts they’ll pay
Use IMEs: “Independent” medical exams that often minimize injuries
Delay Tactics: Extend proceedings to pressure families financially
Coverage Disputes: Argue hazing is “intentional act” excluded from policies
Multiple Policy Identification: Find all potential coverage sources (national, local, university, personal)

Common Insurance Arguments We Counter:

“Hazing is an intentional act excluded from coverage”
“The university isn’t liable for off-campus activities”
“Individual members acted outside organization authority”
“Prior incidents weren’t reported so no notice”

8. Practical Guides for Killeen Families: Immediate Action Steps

For Parents: Recognizing Warning Signs

Physical Indicators:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food/water restriction
Sleep deprivation symptoms
Chemical burns or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if child doesn’t normally drink)

Behavioral Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and non-member friends
Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensiveness when asked about the group
Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting chapter down”
Obsession with pleasing older members

Academic Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or falling asleep in class
Skipping assignments for “mandatory” events
Losing scholarships or academic standing

Digital Monitoring Signs:

Constant phone use for group chat responses
Anxiety when phone buzzes
Deleting messages obsessively
All-hours text demands
Geo-tracking app requirements

Conversation Starters for Concerned Parents

Non-Confrontational Questions:

“How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
“Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“What kinds of activities do new members participate in?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
“Do you feel like you could leave if you wanted to?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”

If Your Child Opens Up:

Listen without judgment
Prioritize safety over “not making waves”
Document what they share
Seek medical attention if injured
Contact an experienced attorney

Student Guide: Assessing Safety and Rights

Self-Assessment Questions:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something unsafe?
Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew details?
Am I told to keep secrets or lie about activities?

Safe Exit Strategies:

Immediate Danger: Call 911, then trusted adult
Planning to Quit: Tell someone outside organization first
Formal Resignation: Email chapter president: “I resign effective immediately”
Safety Planning: Avoid “one last meeting” where pressure may occur
Retaliation Protection: Document threats, report to university and police

Texas Legal Protections Students Should Know:

Good Faith Reporter Immunity: No charges for calling 911 in medical emergencies
Consent Not a Defense: Your “agreement” under pressure doesn’t legalize hazing
Retaliation Protections: Harassment after reporting can lead to criminal charges
Civil Lawsuit Rights: You can sue even if no criminal charges filed

Critical Mistakes That Destroy Cases

Mistake #1: Deleting Evidence

What Happens: Defense argues cover-up, evidence disappears
Right Approach: Preserve everything, even embarrassing content

Mistake #2: Direct Confrontation

What Happens: Organization lawyers up, destroys evidence, coaches witnesses
Right Approach: Document first, let attorney handle communication

Mistake #3: Signing University Papers

What Happens: May waive legal rights, accept inadequate settlements
Right Approach: “I need my attorney to review this before signing”

Mistake #4: Social Media Posts

What Happens: Defense screenshots inconsistencies, uses against you
Right Approach: Document privately, let attorney control public messaging

Mistake #5: Waiting on University Process

What Happens: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Right Approach: Parallel track—preserve evidence while university investigates

Mistake #6: Talking to Insurance Adjusters

What Happens: Recorded statements used to minimize claim
Right Approach: “Please contact my attorney”

Mistake #7: Letting Child Return to “One Last Meeting”

What Happens: Pressure, intimidation, damaging statements extracted
Right Approach: Once legal action considered, all communication through attorney

Frequently Asked Questions for Killeen Families

“Can we sue a Texas public university for hazing?”
Yes, with important nuances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and lawsuits against individual employees. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity barriers. The key is identifying the right legal theories and defendants.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Texas law makes basic hazing a Class B misdemeanor, 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 participate?”
Consent is not a defense under Texas Education Code § 37.155. Courts recognize that power imbalances, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion make true voluntary consent impossible in hazing contexts.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm wasn’t immediately apparent. In cases involving fraud or cover-up, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears rapidly.

“What if hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and foreseeability. Many major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus with successful judgments.

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

“How much does a hazing lawyer cost?”
We work on contingency fee basis—no upfront costs, no fee unless we recover compensation. This makes justice accessible to families facing well-funded opponents.

“What about criminal charges?”
We can refer you to experienced criminal defense counsel if needed. Often, cooperating with prosecutors in criminal cases strengthens civil claims by establishing facts under “beyond reasonable doubt” standard.

9. Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Killeen Families

Insurance Insider Advantage – Lupe Peña’s Defense Background:
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurers:

Value and undervalue claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
Set reserves and negotiation parameters
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience – Ralph Manginello’s Credentials:

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendants
Federal Court Admitted: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas experience
HCCLA Membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association signals elite criminal defense capability
25+ Years Practice: Since 1998, handling high-stakes cases
“We’re not intimidated by national fraternities or universities with unlimited budgets.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience:

Proven track record in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases
Economist collaboration for lifetime care valuation
Experience with traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, permanent disability cases
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Dual Civil/Criminal Hazing Expertise:

Understands how criminal charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with potential exposure
Navigates parallel criminal and civil proceedings
“Hazing cases often involve both criminal prosecution and civil liability—we understand both.”

Investigative Depth and Expert Network:

Digital forensics for recovering deleted messages
Medical experts for injury documentation
Greek life culture and policy experts
Economists for damage valuation
Psychologists for trauma assessment
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Our Active Texas Hazing Litigation: The UH Pi Kappa Phi Case

Right now, we’re leading the Leonel Bermudez $10 million hazing lawsuit against University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, and 13 individual defendants. This isn’t theoretical—we’re currently in court fighting for accountability. The case demonstrates:

Medical Severity Recognition: Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure from physical hazing
Multiple Defendant Identification: University, national, housing corporation, individuals
Pattern Evidence Development: Similar incidents in other Pi Kappa Phi chapters
Institutional Knowledge Proof: What UH and nationals knew before and after
Digital Evidence Mastery: Group chats, messages, social media documentation

How We Serve Killeen and Bell County Families

Geographic Reach:
While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas, including Killeen, Harker Heights, Fort Hood, and all Bell County communities. Hazing cases don’t respect county lines, and neither does our commitment to Texas families.

Spanish Language Services:
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish—critical for serving Hispanic families in Central Texas facing language barriers during crisis.

Military Family Understanding:
With Fort Hood nearby, we understand the unique concerns of military families facing hazing issues while managing deployment and service obligations.

Local Campus Knowledge:
We monitor hazing issues at Texas A&M University-Central Texas, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and understand their connection to larger university systems.

Your Consultation: What to Expect

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911:

Immediate Response: We prioritize hazing cases—evidence disappears fast
Confidential Discussion: Everything you share is protected
Evidence Assessment: We’ll review what you’ve preserved
Options Explanation: Criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, or other paths
Realistic Expectations: Timelines, challenges, potential outcomes
No Pressure: Take time to decide—we won’t push immediate retention

Our Contingency Fee Structure:

No upfront costs
No fee unless we recover compensation
Transparent expense explanation
Level playing field against well-funded opponents

Call to Action for Killeen Families

If hazing has impacted your family:

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
24/7 Availability: We understand emergencies don’t wait for business hours
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com or lupe@atty911.com (Spanish available)

What We Need From You:

Basic Information: What happened, when, where, who was involved
Evidence Preserved: Screenshots, photos, medical records you’ve saved
Timeline: When events occurred and what steps you’ve taken
Your Goals: What accountability and recovery look like for your family

Why Time Matters:

Group chats delete after 24-48 hours
Witnesses get coached on what to say
Universities move quickly to control narratives
Physical evidence disappears
The sooner you call, the more we can preserve.

Final Message to Killeen Families

Hazing represents a profound betrayal—an abuse of trust by organizations that promise belonging, tradition, and growth. At Attorney911, we’ve seen how this betrayal devastates families across Texas, including here in Bell County.

We also see the strength of families who fight back. The Leonel Bermudez case shows that accountability is possible, even against powerful universities and national organizations. It shows that medical trauma from hazing deserves serious compensation. And it shows that experienced Texas counsel can make a difference.

Whether your child attends school here in Killeen or at a campus across Texas, you don’t have to face this alone. The silence that enables hazing thrives in isolation. Breaking that silence starts with one call.

Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let us help you protect your child, preserve evidence, and pursue the accountability that can prevent this from happening to another family.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

Click2Houston Investigation: 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 Coverage: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
Hoodline Summary: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Evidence Preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of Limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client Mistakes to Avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Contingency Fee Explanation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

Contact & Information: https://attorney911.com

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 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 | lupe@atty911.com (Spanish services available)