If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University: A Comprehensive Guide for Lake Jackson Families

The Call No Texas Parent Wants to Receive

The phone rings at 3 AM. Your voice sounds distant, weak, confused. You tell me you’re in the emergency room somewhere off-campus. You say something about a fraternity “workout” that went too far, about being forced to drink until you couldn’t stand, about waking up with bruises you can’t explain. You whisper, “Please don’t tell the chapter—they said I’d get everyone in trouble.” Then the call drops.

This isn’t a dramatic Hollywood scene. This is what we hear from Texas college students and their terrified families every single year. Right now, as you read this, a student from Lake Jackson—maybe from Brazoswood High School, maybe a Brazosport College transfer—could be experiencing this exact nightmare at University of Houston, Texas A&M, or any of the campuses where Lake Jackson families send their children for education and opportunity.

What happens next will determine everything: their physical recovery, their psychological healing, their academic future, and whether the individuals and institutions responsible will ever be held accountable.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for you—parents and families in Lake Jackson, Brazoria County, and across the Gulf Coast region. We’ll walk you through exactly what hazing looks like in 2025, what Texas law says about it, what’s happening at the universities your children attend, and most importantly, what your legal options are when tradition becomes torture and “brotherhood” becomes abuse.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

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

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

What Hazing Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

The Reality Behind the Greek Letters

For parents in Lake Jackson who may not have experienced Greek life themselves, today’s hazing has evolved far beyond the cartoonish “animal house” stereotypes. The paddle-on-the-wall trophy has been replaced by digital humiliation, the drinking games have become medically calculated rituals, and the abuse has moved to off-campus Airbnbs to avoid university surveillance.

When we represented Leonel Bermudez against University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter in late 2025, we saw exactly what modern hazing looks like. This wasn’t “boys being boys”—this was systematic abuse that nearly destroyed a young man’s kidneys and could have killed him.

The UH Pi Kappa Phi Case: Your Local Warning

This case matters to Lake Jackson families because it’s happening right now at a university just an hour from your community. According to the detailed media coverage in ABC13’s investigation and the Click2Houston report, here’s what happened:

The “Pledge Fanny Pack” Humiliation: Leonel and other pledges were forced to carry a fanny pack 24/7 containing condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices, and other degrading items. Failure meant punishment or expulsion.
Systematic Physical Torture: This included forced sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, and “save-your-brother” drills. Pledges were sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding” and threatened with actual waterboarding. They were forced to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, then immediately forced to sprint again.
The Breaking Point: On November 3, 2025, Leonel was forced through 100+ push-ups, 500 squats, and creed recitation under threat of expulsion. He couldn’t stand without help afterward.
Medical Catastrophe: Days later, he passed brown urine—a classic sign of rhabdomyolysis. His mother rushed him to the hospital where tests showed critically high creatine kinase levels. He was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure, requiring four days of hospitalization and facing risk of permanent kidney damage.

This case resulted in Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter being suspended (November 6) and then voting to surrender their charter (November 14). But for Leonel, the damage was done. His story isn’t an anomaly—it’s a pattern that repeats across Texas campuses, including those where your Lake Jackson students may be enrolled.

The Evolution of Hazing: From Paddles to Digital Control

Digital Hazing (2025’s Most Common Form)

24/7 Group Chat Monitoring: Pledges required to respond instantly to messages at all hours, creating sleep deprivation and constant anxiety
Social Media Humiliation: Forced TikTok challenges, Instagram story dares, public shaming
Location Tracking: Required to share live location via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
Evidence Destruction: Instructions to delete messages after reading, use disappearing message apps

Disguised as “Wellness” or “Tradition”

Extreme workouts framed as “fitness challenges”
Forced drinking games called “bonding exercises”
Sleep deprivation labeled “midnight study sessions”
Public humiliation passed off as “character building”

The Geographic Spread for Lake Jackson Families
Whether your student is at UH (just up Highway 288), Texas A&M (about 90 minutes away), UT Austin, or any other Texas campus, the patterns remain consistent. The same national fraternities that operate at UH—Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha—also have chapters at schools across Texas. Their playbooks are remarkably similar.

Texas Hazing Law: What Lake Jackson Families Need to Know

The Texas Education Code Framework

Texas has specific, strong anti-hazing laws in the Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. Here’s what every Lake Jackson parent should understand:

Definition (Texas Education Code §37.151)
Hazing means 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.

Key Points for Texas Parents:

Location Doesn’t Matter: Hazing at an off-campus Airbnb, a house in Houston, or even a retreat in another state still falls under Texas law if the organization is based at a Texas university.
“Consent” Is Not a Defense (§37.155): Even if your child “agreed” to participate, Texas law explicitly states this is NOT a defense. Courts recognize that peer pressure, fear of exclusion, and power imbalance make true consent impossible.
Mental Health Counts: The law covers both physical AND mental harm. Psychological abuse, humiliation, and emotional trauma qualify as hazing.

Criminal Penalties: Real Consequences

Individual Offenders (§37.152):

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000)
Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes injury requiring medical treatment
State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death

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

Fined up to $10,000 per violation
Have their university recognition revoked
Face civil lawsuits for damages

The Good News: Reporter Protections (§37.154)
Texas law provides immunity for good-faith reporting. If someone calls 911 or reports hazing to save a life, they’re protected from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result. Many universities extend this to include amnesty for underage drinking in medical emergencies.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding Both Paths

When your child is hazed, two parallel legal processes may occur:

Criminal Cases (The State vs. Individuals)

Prosecuted by district attorneys (in Harris County for UH cases, Brazos County for Texas A&M, etc.)
Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Common charges: Hazing, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter in fatal cases
Important: A criminal case is NOT required to file a civil lawsuit

Civil Cases (Your Family vs. Responsible Parties)

Filed by victims or surviving families
Goal: Compensation for damages and accountability
Can proceed regardless of criminal case outcomes
Often uncovers evidence that criminal investigations miss

The National Pattern: What Other States Tell Us About Texas

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Most Common Tragedy

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

Forced to drink nearly a full bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
Outcome: $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Relevance for Lake Jackson: Pi Kappa Alpha has chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and SMU

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Forced drinking during “Bible study” game
Blood alcohol content: 0.495% (over 6 times legal limit)
Died from alcohol toxicity
Outcome: Louisiana passed the Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
Relevance: Phi Delta Theta operates at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, and Baylor

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

Bid acceptance night with extreme drinking
Multiple falls captured on security cameras
Delayed medical care led to death
Outcome: 18 members charged with over 1,000 criminal counts; Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law
Relevance: Shows how cover-up culture can be fatal

Physical and Ritualized Hazing

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

Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual
Died from traumatic brain injury
Delayed 911 call
Outcome: National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Relevance: First major case holding a national fraternity criminally liable

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

Forced excessive drinking during “pledge dad reveal”
Suffered permanent, severe brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
Outcome: Settlements with 22 defendants, reportedly multi-million dollar
Relevance: Non-fatal injuries can be just as catastrophic as deaths

What These Cases Mean for Lake Jackson Families

Pattern Recognition: The same scripts repeat across campuses. “Big/Little” nights, drinking games, extreme workouts—they’re not unique accidents but predictable patterns.
Cover-up Culture: Delayed medical care is common. Organizations prioritize their survival over student safety.
National Accountability: National fraternities often have prior knowledge of these patterns but fail to prevent them.
Financial Realities: Settlement amounts in death cases typically range from $1-14 million. Severe injury cases often reach multi-million dollar settlements.

Texas Universities: Where Lake Jackson Students Are Most at Risk

Understanding the Landscape for Brazoria County Families

Lake Jackson students typically attend several categories of universities:

Local & Regional Options:

Brazosport College (Local community college with transfer programs)
University of Houston-Clear Lake (About 45 minutes away)
University of Houston (Primary large research university in the region)

Major State Universities:

Texas A&M University (Many Brazoria County students’ first choice)
University of Texas at Austin (Top academic destination)
Texas State University (Growing in popularity)
Texas Tech University (West Texas option)

Private & Specialized:

Baylor University (Private Christian university)
Southern Methodist University (Private Dallas university)

Each campus has its own Greek life ecosystem, traditions, and risk factors. Below, we focus on the five largest Greek life campuses that collectively educate thousands of Lake Jackson students.

1. University of Houston: Your Community’s University

For Lake Jackson Families: UH is the most accessible major university for Brazoria County students. Just up Highway 288, it’s where many local students begin their college journeys. Its Greek life is active and diverse, with organizations that have histories extending across Texas.

Recent History & Current Reality:
The Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi case we’re currently litigating exemplifies UH’s ongoing hazing problem. But this wasn’t UH’s first incident:

2016 Pi Kappa Alpha Case: Pledges deprived of food, water, and sleep; one suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table
Multiple Disciplinary Actions: UH’s conduct office regularly places fraternities on probation for alcohol violations, hazing, and risk management failures

UH’s Greek Ecosystem:

Interfraternity Council (IFC): 17+ fraternities including Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha
Panhellenic Council: 6 sororities
National Pan-Hellenic Council: All nine Divine Nine organizations
Multicultural Greek Council: Numerous culturally-based organizations

What Lake Jackson Parents Should Know:

Reporting: UHPD (campus police) has jurisdiction on-campus; Houston Police Department handles off-campus incidents
Conduct Process: UH’s Dean of Students office investigates but often focuses on internal discipline rather than criminal referral
Transparency: UH publishes some disciplinary data but not as comprehensively as UT Austin

2. Texas A&M University: Tradition and Risk

For Lake Jackson Families: Many Aggie traditions are sources of pride, but some have dark sides. The Corps of Cadets and Greek life both have documented hazing issues.

Documented Cases:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021)

Pledges covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit
Resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
Pledges sued for $1 million; fraternity suspended for two years

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023)

Cadet alleged being bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
Subjected to simulated sexual acts and degradation
Sought over $1 million in damages
Texas A&M claimed it handled the matter internally

Texas A&M’s Unique Factors:

Corps of Cadets Culture: Military-style discipline can cross into abuse
“Old Army” Traditions: Some traditions persist despite policy changes
Greek-Corps Overlap: Many Corps members also join fraternities

3. University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Ongoing Issues

For Lake Jackson Families: UT’s public hazing violations database makes it the most transparent Texas university, but the recurring violations show the problem persists despite this transparency.

Publicly Documented Violations (from UT’s Hazing Violations Page):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023)

New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
Found to be hazing
Sanction: Probation and mandatory hazing-prevention education

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024)

Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted at party
Injuries included dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
Student sued SAE chapter for over $1 million
Chapter already under suspension for prior violations

Other Sanctioned Organizations:

Texas Wranglers (spirit organization)
Texas Cowboys (tradition organization)
Multiple fraternities and sororities

UT’s Investigative Process:

Report to Office of the Dean of Students
Investigation by Student Conduct office
Possible referral to UTPD (campus police) or Austin PD
Disciplinary hearing with potential sanctions
Public posting of violations (unique among Texas schools)

4. Southern Methodist University: Private Campus Challenges

For Lake Jackson Families: SMU’s private status and affluent student body create different dynamics. Internal investigations are less transparent, but civil litigation can uncover what the university keeps confidential.

Documented Incidents:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017)

New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep
Chapter suspended for multiple years
Restrictions on recruiting until 2021

SMU’s Response Framework:

Real Response System: Anonymous reporting app
Private Investigations: Less public disclosure than state schools
Insurance Complexities: Private university policies differ from public immunity issues

5. Baylor University: Religious Identity and Abuse History

For Lake Jackson Families: Baylor’s recent sexual assault scandal demonstrates how religious institutions can struggle with abuse accountability. The same dynamics affect hazing cases.

Documented Cases:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020)

14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Suspensions staggered over the early season
Details never fully disclosed publicly

Baylor’s Unique Challenges:

Religious Branding: Can create pressure to protect institutional image
Prior Scandal Fallout: Sexual assault case settlements exceed $200 million
Title IX Overlap: Hazing with sexualized elements triggers additional federal requirements

Public Records: The Greek Organizations Behind the Letters

Understanding the Network: Why This Matters for Lake Jackson Families

When your child joins “Sigma Alpha Epsilon at UH” or “Pi Kappa Phi at Texas A&M,” they’re not just joining a campus club. They’re entering a complex network of:

Local undergraduate chapters
Alumni associations with Lake Jackson members
Housing corporations that own properties
National headquarters with insurance policies
Honor societies and affiliate organizations

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks over 1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metros. This isn’t abstract data—it’s the roadmap we use to identify every potentially liable entity in a hazing case.

Texas Greek Organization Directory: Examples Relevant to Lake Jackson Families

Organizations with Texas IRS Filings (IRS B83 Records):

Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc

EIN: 462267515
Located: 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035-6629
Relevance: This is the housing corporation for the UH chapter that hazed Leonel Bermudez

Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity

EIN: 746064445
Located: 1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627-8843
Relevance: National fraternity with chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Sigma Incorporated

EIN: 882755427
Located: 2104 Old Ranch Rd, San Marcos, TX 78666-0000
Relevance: SAE’s Texas entity; involved in chemical burns case at Texas A&M

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc

EIN: 133048786
Located: 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845-6681
Relevance: Texas A&M chapter housing corporation

Houston Metro Greek Organizations (from Cause IQ Data):

Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity

Houston, TX alumni/house corporation

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae

Graduate chapter serving Houston area professionals

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Beta Sigma Chapter

Undergraduate chapter at Houston-area universities

Why This Directory Matters:

Insurance Identification: Each entity may have separate insurance policies
Asset Discovery: Organizations have assets that can satisfy judgments
Pattern Evidence: Multiple entities under same national brand show systemic issues
Jurisdiction Planning: Different entities may be sued in different courts

National Fraternity Histories: Patterns That Repeat at Texas Campuses

Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike)

Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State (2021) – $10M settlement
David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois (2012) – $14M settlement
Texas Chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing, forced consumption rituals

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE)

Chemical Burns: Texas A&M (2021) – $1M lawsuit
Traumatic Brain Injury: University of Alabama (2023) – ongoing
Assault Case: UT Austin (2024) – $1M+ lawsuit
Texas Chapters: All five major universities
Pattern: Physical abuse, forced substances, violent rituals

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

Max Gruver: LSU (2017) – Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act
Texas Chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
Pattern: Drinking games disguised as “Bible study” or quizzes

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

Andrew Coffey: Florida State (2017) – chapter closed
Leonel Bermudez: UH (2025) – $10M lawsuit, chapter closed
Texas Chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin
Pattern: Extreme physical hazing, forced consumption

Kappa Alpha Order (KA)

SMU Chapter: Paddling, forced drinking (2017) – multi-year suspension
Texas Chapters: Texas A&M, SMU, others
Pattern: Southern tradition justification for physical abuse

What National Histories Mean for Your Case

Foreseeability: When a UH chapter repeats the same hazing that killed someone at Florida State, it shows the national knew or should have known the risk
Prior Notice: National headquarters often receive complaints before tragedies but fail to act
Punitive Damages: Repeated patterns despite knowledge can justify punitive damages
Insurance Coverage: National policies may cover local chapters, creating deeper pockets

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Realistic Expectations

Evidence Collection: What Actually Wins Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Critical in 2025)

Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord screenshots
Social Media: Instagram stories, TikTok videos, Snapchat saves
Deleted Message Recovery: Digital forensics can often retrieve “deleted” content
Metadata: Timestamps, location data, participant lists

Physical Evidence

Medical Records: ER reports, hospitalization records, specialist consultations
Photographic Evidence: Injuries at multiple stages (bruises often worsen before healing)
Objects: Paddles, alcohol bottles, costumes, “pledge manuals”
Clothing: Stained or damaged items from hazing events

Documentary Evidence

University Records: Prior disciplinary actions, incident reports
Fraternity Records: Risk management reports, national communications
Financial Records: Receipts for alcohol purchases, Airbnb rentals
Communication Records: Emails between members about events

Witness Evidence

Other Pledges: Often afraid initially but may cooperate as group
Former Members: Those who quit or were expelled often have valuable information
Roommates/Partners: Noticed behavioral changes, physical injuries
Medical Providers: Documentation of patient statements about cause of injuries

The Strategic Timeline: From Crisis to Resolution

Phase 1: Immediate Response (First 48 Hours)

Medical stabilization and documentation
Evidence preservation before deletion
Initial witness interviews while memories are fresh
Strategic decision about reporting to authorities

Phase 2: Investigation (Weeks 1-12)

Digital forensics on phones and devices
Subpoenas for university and fraternity records
Expert consultations (medical, toxicology, Greek life culture)
Identification of all potentially liable parties

Phase 3: Pre-Litigation (Months 3-6)

Demand letters to responsible parties
Insurance coverage investigations
Settlement negotiations
Decision about filing lawsuit

Phase 4: Litigation (Months 6-24+)

Formal discovery (depositions, document requests)
Expert reports and testimony
Mediation attempts
Trial preparation
Possible trial

Damages: What Can Be Recovered

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

Medical Expenses: Past and future (ER, hospitalization, therapy, medications)
Lost Income: Student’s lost wages or parents’ time off work
Educational Costs: Tuition for withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships
Future Earning Capacity: Reduced lifetime earnings from permanent injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Losses)

Physical Pain and Suffering: From injuries and treatment
Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of Enjoyment: Can’t participate in activities they loved
Reputational Harm: Social stigma and future impact

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)

Funeral and Burial Costs
Loss of Financial Support: Deceased’s expected lifetime contributions
Loss of Companionship: Parents’ and siblings’ emotional loss
Pain and Suffering: Deceased’s pre-death suffering

Punitive Damages (When Appropriate)

Available for particularly reckless or intentional conduct
救护? Texas has caps on punitive damages except in certain intentional tort cases
Requires showing defendants knew risks and proceeded anyway

Practical Guides: What Lake Jackson Families Should Do Now

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Physical Indicators:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight changes (from food/water restriction)
Sleep deprivation (calls at all hours)
Chemical burns or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning when they don’t normally drink

Behavioral Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and old friends
Personality changes (anxiety, depression, irritability)
Defensive when asked about the group
Fear of “letting the 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

How to Approach Your Child

Choose the Right Time: Private, calm setting without distractions
Use Open Questions: “How are things going with [organization]?” not “Are they hazing you?”
Listen Without Judgment: They may be ashamed or afraid
Emphasize Safety: “Your health is more important than any group”
Offer Support: “We’ll get through this together, no matter what”

For Students: Protecting Yourself

Is This Hazing? Quick Self-Assessment

Am I being forced or pressured to do something dangerous or degrading?
Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
Is this activity something I’d hide from my parents or the university?
Are older members making me do things they don’t have to do?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about what’s happening?

If You’re in Immediate Danger

Call 911 – Texas law protects good-faith reporters
Get to Safety – Your dorm, a friend’s place, a public area
Preserve Evidence – Screenshot messages before deleting
Seek Medical Care – Even if you “feel fine,” internal injuries can be deadly

Safe Exit Strategies

Document First: Screenshot everything before announcing you’re leaving
Use Support Systems: Tell a trusted friend, RA, or family member first
Formal Resignation: Email the chapter president: “I resign effective immediately”
Avoid “One Last Meeting”: This is often a pressure or intimidation tactic
Report Retaliation: Any harassment after leaving should be documented and reported

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence
What happens: “I don’t want to get anyone in more trouble”
Why it’s wrong: Looks like a cover-up; can be obstruction of justice
What to do: Preserve everything, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization
What happens: Parents angrily call the chapter president
Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
What to do: Document everything, then call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing University Agreements
What happens: University pressures you to sign “internal resolution” forms
Why it’s wrong: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are usually lowball
What to do: Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing it first

4. Posting on Social Media
What happens: “I want people to know what happened”
Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
What to do: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

5. Waiting for the University
What happens: “We’re investigating internally”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
What to do:* Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters
What happens: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
Why it’s wrong:* Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
What to do:* Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Lake Jackson Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts. We successfully navigate these complexities daily.

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

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Texas Education Code §37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent. We’ve successfully argued this point in multiple cases.

“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 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 forget, and organizations destroy records.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

“Will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability. In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, media coverage occurred because the lawsuit was filed, but settlement negotiations can include confidentiality provisions.

“How much does a hazing lawsuit cost?”
We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. This includes:

No hourly fees
No upfront costs
Case expenses advanced by the firm
Payment only from settlement or verdict proceeds
Clear percentage agreed in writing upfront

“Can international students file hazing claims?”
Yes. International students have the same legal protections as domestic students. However, they face additional challenges:

Fear of visa consequences
Cultural barriers to reporting
Language issues
Distance from family support
We have experience navigating these unique concerns.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Lake Jackson Families

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. Here’s why Lake Jackson families choose us:

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

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Deploy coverage exclusion arguments
Set reserves and negotiate settlements
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation (Ralph Manginello)

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendants
Federal Court Experience: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas admission
Not Intimidated: We’ve faced corporations with unlimited legal budgets and won
“We’ve taken on the biggest defendants Texas has. Fraternities and universities don’t scare us.”

Multi-Million Dollar Results

Wrongful death settlements that fund families’ futures
Catastrophic injury cases with lifetime care provisions
Experience working with economists on loss calculations
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force real accountability.”

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability

Ralph’s HCCLA membership (elite criminal defense credential)
Understanding of how criminal charges interact with civil cases
Ability to advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
“We see the whole legal chessboard, not just one piece.”

Investigative Depth

Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, Greek life culture, economists
Experience obtaining hidden evidence through subpoenas and discovery
Understanding of fraternity/sorority internal structures and communication
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Local Knowledge with Statewide Reach
While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas, including:

Brazoria County: Lake Jackson, Freeport, Angleton, Pearland
Gulf Coast Region: Galveston, Texas City, Bay City
Major University Areas: College Station, Austin, Dallas, Waco
We understand the unique dynamics of each campus community.

Our Approach: Empathy Meets Aggressive Advocacy

We know this is one of the hardest experiences a family can face. Our approach balances:

For Your Family:

Compassionate listening without judgment
Clear communication at every step
Respect for privacy and emotional needs
Realistic expectations about process and timing

For Your Case:

Thorough, relentless investigation
Strategic identification of all liable parties
Aggressive pursuit of maximum compensation
Willingness to go to trial if necessary

For Accountability:

Pursuing institutional reform where possible
Pushing for policy changes to prevent future harm
When appropriate, public accountability through litigation
Balancing confidentiality with prevention goals

Your Next Step: Confidential Consultation

What to Expect When You Call 1-888-ATTY-911

Immediate Response

24/7 availability for emergencies
- Direct attorney access, not a call center
- Spanish-language services available (Se habla Español)

Your Free, No-Obligation Consultation

We Listen: Tell us what happened in complete confidence
We Review: Look at any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
We Explain: Your legal options in clear, understandable terms
We Answer: All your questions about process, timing, and what to expect
You Decide: No pressure to hire us on the spot

If You Hire Us

Contingency Fee Agreement: Clear, written terms—no surprises
Investigation Plan: Detailed strategy for your specific case
Communication Commitment: Regular updates at every stage
Team Approach: Both attorneys working together on your case

Contact Information for Lake Jackson Families

Immediate Help:

Emergency Line: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct Office: (713) 528-9070
Mobile: (713) 443-4781

Online Resources:

Website: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful Death Practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal Defense Capability: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/

Attorney Profiles:

Ralph Manginello: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Mr. Lupe Peña: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

Educational Videos:

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

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

Click2Houston (KPRC 2) – “‘Urine was brown’: Pledge sues over severe hazing at University of Houston’s shut down Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”
https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
ABC13 Eyewitness News (KTRK) – “Waterboarding, forced eating, physical punishment: Lawsuit alleges abuse faced by injured pledge at UH’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”
https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
Hoodline – “University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Face $10M Lawsuit Over Alleged Hazing and Abuse”
https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos:

“📱 Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case? | Attorney911 Explains”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
“Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case? | Attorney911 with Injury Lawyer Ralph Manginello”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
“Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case | Attorney911 with Ralph Manginello”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
“📢 How Do Contingency Fees Work? Injury Lawyer Explains!”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

Attorney911 — Main Website & Contact
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 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