Hazing Litigation in Madison County: The Ultimate Guide for Texas Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at Sam Houston State University or Any Texas Campus, You’re Not Alone

The call comes at 2 AM. Your child, a freshman at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville—just a short drive from our ranches and communities here in Madison County—is slurring their words. They mention a “Big/Little” event at a fraternity house off-campus. Later, you learn they were forced to chug a bottle of whiskey, endure humiliating acts while older members filmed on their phones, and were warned not to call for help or “ruin it for everyone.” They’re hospitalized with alcohol poisoning. The university sends a generic email about “student conduct review.” The fraternity’s national headquarters issues a statement about “rogue individuals” violating policies. And you, a parent in Madison County, are left wondering: What are our rights? Who is really responsible? And how do we protect our child now?

This scenario happens in Texas. Right now, just hours from Madison County in Houston, our firm is fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in the country. We represent Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. The alleged conduct is beyond disturbing: forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting; being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”; extreme workouts leading to rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure that required four days of hospitalization.

This is what modern hazing looks like in Texas. It’s not just “boys will be boys” or harmless tradition. It’s systematic abuse that can cause permanent injury or death. And it’s happening at campuses across our state—including schools where Madison County families send their children.

This Comprehensive Guide Is for Madison County Families Facing Hazing

If you’re reading this because you suspect your child is being hazed—whether at Sam Houston State University here in our region, Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, or any other Texas campus—this guide will help you understand:

What hazing really looks like in 2025 (far beyond the stereotypes)
Texas hazing laws and your family’s legal rights
Patterns from national hazing deaths and injuries that we see repeating in Texas
Specific issues at Texas universities where Madison County students attend
How fraternity and sorority national histories create liability
What evidence matters and how to preserve it immediately
Practical steps for parents, students, and witnesses
Why our Texas-based firm is uniquely qualified to handle hazing cases against universities and national organizations

We are The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911 (the Legal Emergency Lawyers™). We’re based in Houston but serve families throughout Texas, including here in Madison County. We’re currently leading the high-profile hazing litigation against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi. We’ve handled catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases against billion-dollar corporations. And we bring that same relentless approach to holding fraternities, sororities, and universities accountable when they fail to protect students.

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 Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

The Modern Definition of Hazing

For Madison County families who may be unfamiliar with today’s Greek life or campus organization dynamics, hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits.

The critical legal and practical point: “I agreed to it” or “I wanted to fit in” does NOT make it safe or legal. Texas law recognizes that power imbalances, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion create coercive environments where true consent is impossible.

Five Main Categories of Modern Hazing

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing

This remains the most common—and most deadly—form of hazing. It includes:

Forced or coerced drinking: “Finish this bottle or you’re out”
Drinking games with dangerous rules: “Every wrong answer = another shot”
“Big/Little” nights: New members given handles of liquor to consume with their “Big”
Unknown substance consumption: Being forced to drink mixtures without knowing what’s in them

2. Physical Hazing

Paddling and beatings: Still occurring despite national prohibitions
Extreme calisthenics: “Smokings” with hundreds of push-ups/squats until collapse
Sleep deprivation: All-night “study sessions” or 3 AM wake-up calls
Food/water deprivation: Going days with minimal sustenance
Environmental exposure: Locked in cold rooms or left outside in extreme weather

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts: “Elephant walks,” “roasted pig” positions
Degrading costumes and public humiliation
Racist, sexist, or homophobic role-playing

4. Psychological Hazing

Verbal abuse and threats
Social isolation from non-members
Forced confessions of personal information used against them
Public shaming in meetings or group chats

5. Digital/Online Hazing

Group chat dares and challenges: Required to complete humiliating acts on video
Social media humiliation: Forced to post compromising content on Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat
24/7 availability demands: Expected to respond to messages instantly at all hours
Location tracking: Required to share live location via apps

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

While fraternities receive most attention, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC at Texas A&M and other military-style programs
Athletic Teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer, swimming)
Spirit Squads and Tradition Groups (Texas Cowboys, cheer teams, drumlines)
Marching Bands and Performance Groups
Academic and Service Organizations

The common thread across all these groups: social status, tradition, and secrecy keep dangerous practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Laws: What Madison County Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code – Chapter 37: The Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that govern cases involving Madison County families, whether the hazing occurred at Sam Houston State University here in our region or at campuses across the state.

§ 37.151: Definition of Hazing

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 Madison County families:

Location doesn’t matter – on-campus, off-campus, at retreats, all covered
Can be mental OR physical harm
“Reckless” is enough – they don’t need to have intended harm
“Consent is not a defense” (explained below)

§ 37.152: Criminal Penalties

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

Additional offenses:

Failing to report hazing (if you’re a member/officer who knew): misdemeanor
Retaliating against someone who reports: misdemeanor

§ 37.153: Organizational Liability

Organizations can be criminally prosecuted if:

The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
An officer or member acting in official capacity knew and failed to report

Penalties for organizations:

Fine up to $10,000 per violation
University can revoke recognition and ban from campus

§ 37.155: Consent is NOT a Defense

This is critical for Madison County families to understand. The statute explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the hazing activity.”

Why this matters: Fraternities and universities often argue “they agreed to participate.” Texas law recognizes that under peer pressure, power imbalance, and desire for belonging, there’s no true voluntary consent.

§ 37.154: Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting

A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result.

Important for Madison County students: Many universities (including Sam Houston State) have medical amnesty policies – if you call 911 for someone in danger, you won’t face underage drinking charges.

§ 37.156: University Reporting Requirements

Texas colleges must:

Provide hazing prevention education
Publish hazing policies
Maintain and publish annual reports of hazing violations and disciplinary actions

This creates public records that Madison County families can use to check if an organization has prior violations.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases

Brought by: The State of Texas (prosecutor)
Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Charges may include: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
Burden of proof: Beyond a reasonable doubt

Civil Cases

Brought by: Victims or surviving families
Goal: Compensation and accountability
Claims may include: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
Burden of proof: Preponderance of evidence (more likely than not)

Key point for Madison County families: You can pursue a civil case even if no criminal charges are filed. The standards and goals are different.

Federal Law Overlay

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to:
- Report hazing incidents more transparently
- Strengthen hazing education and prevention
- Maintain public hazing data (phased in by 2026)

Title IX and Clery Act

Title IX: When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility
Clery Act: Requires reporting certain crimes; hazing often overlaps with assault/alcohol crimes

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Case?

1. Individual Students

Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up

2. Local Chapter/Organization

The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if incorporated)
Officers and “pledge educators”

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters

Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
Liability depends on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents

4. University or Governing Board

Schools may be liable under negligence or civil rights theories
Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference

5. Third Parties

Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces
Bars or alcohol providers (dram shop liability)
Security companies or event organizers

For Madison County families: We investigate ALL potential sources of liability to ensure full accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Can Learn from Tragedy

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern

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

What happened: Bid-acceptance night with forced heavy drinking
Key facts: Piazza suffered multiple falls captured on chapter cameras; brothers delayed calling 911 for hours
Legal outcome: 18 fraternity members charged with over 1,000 criminal counts; new Pennsylvania anti-hazing law named after him
Takeaway for Texas: Delay in seeking medical help and culture of silence create devastating liability

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

What happened: “Bible study” drinking game – wrong answers = forced drinking
Key facts: Gruver’s BAC reached 0.495%; died from alcohol toxicity
Legal outcome: Multiple criminal convictions; Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing)
Takeaway for Texas: Legislative change follows public outrage and clear proof

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

What happened: “Big/Little” night – forced to drink nearly entire bottle of whiskey
Key facts: Died from alcohol poisoning
Legal outcome: Multiple criminal convictions; $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Takeaway for Texas: Universities face significant financial consequences alongside fraternities

The Physical/Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

What happened: Blindfolded, weighted down, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual at retreat
Key facts: Suffered fatal head injuries; help delayed
Legal outcome: Multiple convictions; national fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Takeaway for Texas: Off-campus “retreats” are equally dangerous; national organizations face direct criminal liability

The Athletic Program Hazing Pattern

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

What happened: Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Key facts: Multiple lawsuits; head coach fired and later settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Takeaway for Texas: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to big-money athletic programs

What These Cases Mean for Madison County Families

Common threads across all major cases:

Forced drinking as central component
Delay in seeking medical help
Attempts to cover up or minimize
Institutional knowledge or willful ignorance
Multi-million dollar settlements following litigation

These national precedents shape how Texas courts view hazing cases and provide powerful leverage in negotiations.

Texas Focus: Where Madison County Students Attend College

The Madison County Connection

Families in Madison County, Texas send their children to colleges across our state. The closest major campus is Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, just minutes from our county line. But Madison County students also attend:

Texas A&M University (College Station)
University of Texas at Austin
University of Houston
Texas State University (San Marcos)
Baylor University (Waco)
Blinn College and other community colleges
Numerous other Texas public and private institutions

Wherever your child attends, Texas hazing law applies. And our experience with campuses across the state means we understand the specific cultures, policies, and patterns at each school.

Sam Houston State University: Our Local Campus

Campus & Hazing Culture

Sam Houston State University in Huntsville serves as the primary university for many Madison County families. With active Greek life, athletic programs, and student organizations, SHSU has faced hazing incidents requiring serious institutional response.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting

SHSU prohibits hazing as defined by Texas law. The university’s Student Guidelines specify that hazing includes “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act” that endangers mental or physical health for purposes of initiation or affiliation. Reporting channels include:

Dean of Students Office
University Police Department
Online reporting forms

Documented Incidents & Responses

While specific recent cases may not be publicly detailed, SHSU has disciplined organizations for hazing violations. The pattern at regional universities like SHSU often involves:

Alcohol-related hazing during pledge periods
Physical endurance tests disguised as “team building”
Social media challenges that cross into coercion

How an SHSU Hazing Case Proceeds

Jurisdiction: Walker County courts (where SHSU is located)
Potential defendants: Individuals, local chapters, national organizations, possibly the university
Evidence sources: SHSU conduct records, local police reports, chapter communications

What SHSU Students & Parents Should Do

Document immediately: Huntsville is close-knit—evidence disappears quickly when word spreads
Report to SHSU authorities: Dean of Students handles conduct violations
Preserve digital evidence: GroupMe chats are common for SHSU Greek life communication
Consult local counsel: We serve Huntsville and Madison County families directly

Texas A&M University: Where Tradition Meets Risk

Culture & Hazing Context

Texas A&M’s unique traditions, including the Corps of Cadets, create both proud legacy and hazing risk. The “Aggie family” culture can sometimes discourage reporting when misconduct occurs within respected organizations.

Documented Cases

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021)

What happened: Pledges allegedly covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs
Injuries: Severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
Legal action: Pledges sued for $1 million; fraternity suspended for two years
Significance: Shows physical hazing extends beyond alcohol to dangerous substances

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023)

What happened: Cadet allegedly bound between beds in degrading position with apple in mouth
Legal action: Sought over $1 million; Texas A&M stated it handled matter internally
Significance: Demonstrates hazing in military-style programs with deep traditions

Texas A&M Hazing Policy

A&M has detailed anti-hazing policies covering both Greek life and Corps activities. The university maintains reporting systems but families should know: internal processes often prioritize institutional reputation over victim protection.

For Madison County Families with Aggie Students

Understand the culture: Tradition and loyalty run deep at A&M
Document everything: Corps and Greek life often use group chats that can be preserved
Consider timing: A&M handles cases through Student Conduct; simultaneous civil action may be necessary
Know your rights: Being a “tradition” doesn’t make it legal

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency & Repeated Violations

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page

UT Austin maintains one of Texas’s most transparent systems at hazing.utexas.edu, listing organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions.

Documented Cases from Public Records

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023)

Conduct: New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
Sanction: Chapter probation; required hazing-prevention education
Pattern: Similar to allegations in our UH Pi Kappa Phi case

Texas Wranglers & Other Spirit Groups

Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, punishment-based practices
Significance: Hazing occurs in prestigious non-Greek organizations

UT Hazing Response System

UTPD (campus police) investigates criminal aspects
Dean of Students handles conduct violations
Public reporting creates accountability but also shows recurring problems

For Madison County Families with UT Students

Check the public database: See if your child’s organization has prior violations
Act quickly: UT’s size means cases can get lost in bureaucracy
Use transparency to your advantage: Prior violations establish pattern knowledge
Consider Austin jurisdiction: Travis County courts handle UT-related cases

University of Houston: Our Current Battle Ground

The Leonel Bermudez Case – What Happened

We are currently representing Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against:

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

Timeline & Key Facts:

Sept 16, 2025: Bermudez accepts bid to Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter
Sept-Oct 2025: Forced dress codes, overnight chauffeuring, “pledge fanny pack” humiliation (condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices)
Oct 13, 2025: Another pledge hog-tied face-down on table with object in mouth for over an hour
Nov 3, 2025: Bermudez forced through 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threat
Nov 6-9, 2025: Hospitalized with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure; brown urine; critically high creatine kinase levels
Nov 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspends chapter
Nov 14, 2025: Chapter votes to surrender charter; permanently closed

Hazing Methods Documented:

“Pledge fanny pack” rule with degrading contents
Enforced dress codes and interview schedules
Extreme physical hazing: sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races
Cold-weather exposure in underwear
Lying in vomit-soaked grass
Sprayed in face with hose “similar to waterboarding”
Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting
Early-morning workouts at Yellowstone Park where pledge lost consciousness

Medical Catastrophe:

Rhabdomyolysis: Severe skeletal muscle breakdown
Acute kidney failure: Required four-day hospitalization
Ongoing risk: Permanent kidney damage possible
Documentation: Critically high creatine kinase levels confirmed diagnoses

Institutional Response:

UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”
Promised disciplinary measures up to expulsion
Cooperating with law enforcement
Credited Pi Kappa Phi HQ for decisive action

Why this matters for Madison County families: This active, high-stakes case shows what serious hazing litigation looks like in Texas right now. The patterns at UH – forced drinking, extreme physical abuse, systematic humiliation – occur at campuses statewide.

UH Hazing History & Culture

Beyond our current case, UH has suspended chapters for hazing violations including:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2016): Pledge suffered lacerated spleen after being slammed on table
Multiple organizations disciplined for alcohol hazing, physical abuse, and policy violations

For Madison County Families with UH Connections

Understand Houston jurisdiction: Cases may be in Harris County courts
Recognize the patterns: What happened to Bermudez represents systematic abuse, not isolated incidents
Act on evidence: Group chats and digital evidence are critical in urban campuses
Consider co-counsel: We’re Houston-based and currently fighting UH in court

Southern Methodist University: Private University Dynamics

SMU Culture & Greek Life

As a private university with affluent student population, SMU has strong Greek presence and different dynamics than public institutions. Transparency can be more limited at private schools.

Documented Cases

Kappa Alpha Order (2017)

What happened: New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, sleep-deprived
Outcome: Chapter suspended; recruiting restrictions until 2021
Pattern: Physical hazing continues despite national prohibitions

SMU’s Hazing Response

Private university status affects transparency
Internal processes may be less visible than at public schools
Civil discovery can compel disclosure even without public reports

For Madison County Families at SMU

Expect less transparency: Private universities control information tightly
Use legal discovery: We can obtain internal records through litigation
Recognize different dynamics: SMU’s culture affects reporting and response
Consider Dallas jurisdiction: Dallas County courts handle SMU cases

Baylor University: Religious Identity & Institutional Scandal History

Baylor’s Complex Context

Baylor’s recent history with football sexual assault scandal creates unique context for hazing claims. The university has faced scrutiny over institutional response to misconduct.

Documented Cases

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020)

What happened: 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Response: Staggered suspensions during season
Pattern: Athletic program hazing occurs even at religious institutions

Baylor’s Policies & Culture

“Zero tolerance” statements exist alongside recurring misconduct
Religious branding interacts with abuse claims in complex ways
Prior scandals affect institutional response credibility

For Madison County Families at Baylor

Understand the context: Baylor’s recent history affects all misconduct responses
Document meticulously: Religious institutions may prioritize reputation
Consider Waco jurisdiction: McLennan County courts handle Baylor cases
Recognize patterns: Hazing occurs even in faith-based environments

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories Create Texas Liability

Why National Histories Matter for Madison County Cases

When a Texas chapter repeats hazing methods that caused deaths or injuries at other campuses, that pattern creates legal liability. National headquarters often have:

Thick anti-hazing manuals precisely because they’ve seen tragedies
Knowledge of dangerous patterns: forced drinking nights, paddling traditions, humiliating rituals
Legal duty to supervise chapters and prevent known risks

Organization-Specific Histories Relevant to Texas

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

National history: Stone Foltz death (Bowling Green), multiple other alcohol hazing deaths
Texas presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, many Texas campuses
Liability factor: National knew alcohol hazing risks but chapters continue dangerous “Big/Little” traditions

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

National history: Multiple hazing deaths nationwide; eliminated pledge process in 2014 but problems continue
Texas presence: Chapters at Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor
Texas incidents: Chemical burns case at Texas A&M; assault case at UT
Liability factor: Known pattern of dangerous physical hazing continuing despite national reforms

Pi Kappa Phi

National history: Andrew Coffey death (Florida State)
Texas presence: Our current UH case involves Beta Nu chapter
Liability factor: National knew alcohol hazing risks from Florida death; Texas chapter repeated similar conduct

Phi Delta Theta

National history: Max Gruver death (LSU)
Texas presence: Chapters at multiple Texas universities
Liability factor: “Bible study” drinking game pattern known nationally

How National Patterns Create Legal Liability

Foreseeability

Courts consider: Did the national organization know or should it have known this could happen based on:

Prior incidents at other chapters
Industry knowledge about hazing risks
Specific warnings or complaints about this chapter

Negligent Supervision

Nationals have duty to:

Train chapters adequately
Monitor compliance with policies
Investigate complaints seriously
Enforce consequences for violations

Punitive Damages Potential

When nationals ignore known patterns or enforce policies weakly, Texas courts may award punitive damages to punish reckless disregard for safety.

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Our Investigative Advantage

Our firm maintains detailed data on Texas Greek organizations that informs our litigation strategy:

Public Records Directory: Texas Greek Organizations Relevant to Madison County Families

IRS B83 Texas-Registered Organizations (Sample):

KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN 133048786 | College Station, TX 77845
GAMMA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN 161675890 | The Woodlands, TX 77382 | Zeta Rho HCB
BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC | EIN 462267515 | Frisco, TX 75035
PI KAPPA ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN 746064445 | Nederland, TX 77627 | Epsilon Kappa Chapter
SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY EPSILON XI CHAPTER | EIN 746047117 | Houston, TX 77204

Texas Universities Madison County Families Attend:

Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, TX | Walker County
Texas A&M University | College Station, TX | Brazos County
University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | Travis County
University of Houston | Houston, TX | Harris County
Texas State University | San Marcos, TX | Hays County
Baylor University | Waco, TX | McLennan County

Metro Area Greek Organization Counts:

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro: 188 Greek-related organizations
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro: 510 Greek-related organizations
Austin-Round Rock Metro: 154 Greek-related organizations

Why this data matters: When we take a hazing case, we already know how to identify:

All legally registered entities behind a chapter
Insurance coverage sources
Prior incident patterns across campuses
National organization structures

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy

Critical Evidence Categories

1. Digital Communications

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage group chats: Where hazing is often planned and discussed
Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments: Humiliation and challenges
Deleted message recovery: Digital forensics can often retrieve “disappeared” content
Metadata: Timestamps, participant lists, location data

2. Photos & Videos

Content filmed during events: Often shared in group chats before deletion
Security/doorbell footage: From houses and venues
Injury documentation: Progressive photos showing bruise development

3. Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals and initiation scripts
“Tradition” lists and meeting notes
Emails between chapter officers and nationals
Risk management policies (often ignored in practice)

4. University Records

Prior conduct files: Shows pattern of violations
Incident reports to campus police or conduct offices
Clery Act reports and safety statistics
Internal emails about the organization

5. Medical & Psychological Records

Emergency room records: Documenting acute injuries
Hospitalization records: For serious cases like rhabdomyolysis
Toxicology reports: Blood alcohol levels in alcohol hazing
Psychological evaluations: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses

6. Witness Testimony

Other pledges: Often afraid but may cooperate with protection
Former members: Who quit or were expelled
Roommates and bystanders: Observed changes or heard details
Medical providers: Documented injuries and patient statements

Damages in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable)

Medical expenses: Past and future treatment
Lost income/earnings capacity: From delayed education or permanent disability
Educational costs: Tuition for semesters missed, lost scholarships
Therapy and counseling: Often needed for years

Non-Economic Damages

Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress and trauma
Humiliation and loss of dignity
Loss of enjoyment of life

Wrongful Death Damages

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of financial support to family
Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
Grief and emotional suffering of family members

Punitive Damages

Purpose: Punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
When awarded: When defendants knew risks and ignored them
Texas caps: Generally limited but higher for gross negligence

Insurance Coverage Considerations

Common Insurance Arguments

Intentional acts exclusion: Insurers claim hazing is intentional, not covered
Criminal acts exclusion: Hazing is crime, therefore excluded
“Rogue individuals” defense: Claim only individuals liable, not organization

How We Overcome These Arguments

Negligent supervision claims: Even if hazing was intentional, failure to supervise was negligent
Multiple policy review: Identify all potential coverage sources
Bad faith claims: When insurers wrongfully deny coverage

Settlement vs. Trial Strategy

Most Cases Settle

Confidential terms: Many settlements include non-disclosure
Public examples: Stone Foltz $10M, other multi-million dollar settlements
Institutional reforms: Some settlements require policy changes

Trial When Necessary

When insurers won’t offer fair value
When public accountability is important
When establishing legal precedent matters

Our Approach

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This maximizes settlement leverage and ensures we’re ready if negotiations fail.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Madison County Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Physical signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts (especially with inconsistent explanations)
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food restriction or stress eating
Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
Chemical burns, rashes, or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if they don’t normally drink)

Behavioral & emotional changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
Withdrawal from family and old friends
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive when asked about the organization
Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
Obsession with pleasing older members
Talking about “just having to get through this”

Academic red flags:

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

Digital/social behavior:

Constant phone monitoring of group chats
Anxiety when phone buzzes
Deleting messages or clearing history obsessively
Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response
Social media posts showing concerning activities

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally)

“How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
“Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
“Do you feel like you can leave if you want to?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”

What to Do If You Suspect Hazing

Immediate safety:

If in physical danger, call 911 or campus police
Get medical attention immediately

Document everything:

Write down dates, times, what your child tells you
Screenshot texts, group chats, photos shown to you
Photograph visible injuries
Save physical items (damaged clothing, receipts, props)

Reporting options:

Campus authorities: Dean of Students, Student Conduct office
Local police: If crimes occurred (assault, furnishing alcohol to minor)
University hotlines: Many have anonymous reporting
National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous, 24/7)

Legal consultation:

Contact experienced hazing attorney early
We can help preserve evidence, navigate university processes, advise on options
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance

For Students: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide

Ask yourself:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

If you answered YES to any, it’s likely hazing.

How to Exit Safely

If in immediate danger:

Call 911 or campus police
Get to safe location (dorm, friend’s place, public area)
You won’t get in trouble for calling for help in medical emergency

If you want to quit/de-pledge:

You have legal right to leave at any time
Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend)
Send email/text to chapter president: “I am resigning effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where they might pressure you

Evidence Collection for Students

While happening or immediately after:

Screenshots of group chats: Capture full conversations with timestamps
Voice memos/recordings: Texas is one-party consent state (legal to record conversations you’re part of)
Photos/videos: Injuries, locations, objects used in hazing
Save everything digital: Don’t delete anything even if embarrassed
Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
Witness information: Names/contact for others who saw what happened

Your Texas Legal Rights

You cannot be punished for calling 911 in emergency (good-faith reporter immunity)
Hazing is a crime; you are the victim, not perpetrator
You can file civil lawsuit even if no criminal charges
You can request no-contact order through university if harassed after reporting

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

MISTAKE #1: Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; can be obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly

What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
What to do instead: Document everything, call lawyer before any confrontation

MISTAKE #3: Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms

What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue; settlements often far below value
What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

MISTAKE #4: Posting details on social media before talking to lawyer

What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
What to do instead: Document privately; let lawyer control public messaging

MISTAKE #5: Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”

What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, extract damaging statements
What to do instead: Once considering legal action, all communication through lawyer

MISTAKE #6: Waiting “to see how the university handles it”

What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle internally”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

MISTAKE #7: Talking to insurance adjusters without lawyer

What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process claim”
Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements used against you; early settlements are lowball
What to do instead: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (SHSU, Texas A&M, UT, UH) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific. Contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It can be. Default is Class B misdemeanor. Becomes state jail felony if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face 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 consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from date of injury or death in Texas. The “discovery rule” may extend this if harm/cause wasn’t immediately known. In cover-up cases, statute may be tolled. Time is critical—call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if hazing happened off-campus or at private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major cases occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

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

About The Manginello Law Firm: Why We’re Different

Our Current Battle: Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston & Pi Kappa Phi

Right now, we’re leading one of Texas’s most significant hazing cases. Our representation of Leonel Bermudez against UH and Pi Kappa Phi demonstrates our commitment to holding powerful institutions accountable. The patterns in this case—forced drinking, extreme physical abuse, systematic humiliation—occur at campuses statewide. We’re fighting this battle so other families don’t have to.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Hazing Case?

1. Insurance Insider Advantage

Our associate attorney Mr. Lupe 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
Argue coverage exclusions
Set reserves and negotiate settlements

“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

2. Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions

Managing partner Ralph Manginello has taken on billion-dollar corporations and won. His experience includes:

BP Texas City explosion litigation (one of few Texas firms involved)
Federal court practice (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
Multi-million dollar wrongful death settlements
Not intimidated by national fraternities or university defense teams

“We’ve faced defendants with unlimited resources before.”

3. Texas-Specific Hazing Intelligence

We maintain detailed data on Texas Greek organizations through our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, tracking:

125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations with EINs and addresses
96 Texas university campuses
1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros
National brand patterns and prior incidents

When we take your case, we already know how to identify every potentially liable entity.

4. Dual Civil/Criminal Capability

Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) signals elite criminal defense capability. This matters because:

We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
We can advise witnesses/former members with dual exposure
We know how to navigate parallel proceedings

5. Investigative Depth & Expert Network

We deploy resources typically seen only in largest personal injury cases:

Digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages
Medical experts for rhabdomyolysis, TBI, kidney injury
Psychologists for PTSD and trauma evaluation
Economists for lifetime care cost calculations
Greek life culture experts to explain dynamics

6. Spanish-Language Services

Hablamos Español. Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can serve Hispanic Texas families directly. Contact him at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish.

Our Approach: Empathy Meets Aggressive Advocacy

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

Empathy and support:

We listen without judgment
We explain options clearly without pressure
We respect your family’s privacy
We move at your pace

Aggressive advocacy:

We investigate thoroughly
We identify all liable parties
We prepare every case for trial
We fight for full accountability

Our goal isn’t just compensation—it’s preventing this from happening to another family.

Call to Action: Madison County Families, You’re Not Alone

If Hazing Has Impacted Your Family

Whether your child attends Sam Houston State University here in our region, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, University of Houston, or any other Texas campus, you have rights. The patterns we see in our current UH case—systematic abuse, institutional failures, life-altering injuries—occur across our state.

What to Expect When You Contact Us

Free, Confidential Consultation

We offer no-cost, no-obligation consultations to Madison County families. In your consultation, we’ll:

Listen to your story without judgment
Review any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain your legal options: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
Answer questions about costs (contingency fee – we don’t get paid unless we win)
Provide next steps tailored to your situation

No pressure to hire us on the spot. Take time to decide. Everything you tell us is confidential.

Our Contact Information

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello)
Spanish Services: lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña)

Office Locations

Houston, Texas (primary) – Harris County
Austin, Texas – Travis County
Beaumont, Texas – Jefferson County

We serve families throughout Texas, including Madison County and surrounding areas. Distance doesn’t matter—we come to you or meet virtually.

Why Time Is Critical

In hazing cases, evidence disappears quickly:

Group chats are deleted within hours
Witnesses are coached on what to say
Universities begin internal processes that may compromise evidence
The statute of limitations is always running

The sooner you call, the more we can preserve and protect.

Final Message to Madison County Families

Hazing thrives in silence and shame. It relies on victims and families feeling alone, powerless, and afraid of retaliation. But you’re not alone. Other Texas families have walked this path. National precedents support your rights. And experienced legal counsel can level the playing field against even the most powerful institutions.

Whether you’re in Madisonville, Midway, North Zulch, or anywhere in Madison County, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s discuss your situation, your rights, and how we can help you seek accountability and prevent this from happening to another family.

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
Spanish Services: lupe@atty911.com