Hazing in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide for Moody Families and Students

The Reality No Moody Parent Wants to Imagine

It starts with a text message at 2 AM: “Meeting at the house. Mandatory. Don’t be late.” Your child, a freshman at a Texas university, drags themselves from bed, exhausted from weeks of “pledge duties.” At an off-campus house, older fraternity members line up the new pledges. The “games” begin—forced drinking until someone vomits, humiliating challenges, physical punishments disguised as “conditioning.” Your child feels trapped: reject this and face social isolation, or endure it hoping for acceptance. Someone films it all on their phone, laughing. When a pledge collapses, there’s hesitation—should they call 911 and “get the chapter in trouble,” or try to handle it quietly?

This scenario isn’t hypothetical. It’s happening right now at Texas universities, including those where Moody families send their children. The distance from our quiet community of Moody to the bustling campuses of Baylor University in nearby Waco, Texas A&M in College Station, or the University of Houston doesn’t make these dangers any less real. When hazing injuries occur, families here in McLennan County and throughout Central Texas need to understand their rights and options.

This guide provides Moody families with comprehensive information about hazing in Texas: what it really looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects students, what’s happening at major universities, and how experienced legal counsel can help pursue accountability when institutions fail to protect our children.

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.

The Case That Changed Everything: Leonel Bermudez at University of Houston

Right now, in a Harris County courtroom, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history—and it shows exactly what Moody families need to understand about modern hazing dangers.

In fall 2025, Leonel Bermudez, a transfer student at the University of Houston, accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter. What followed wasn’t brotherhood or tradition—it was systematic abuse that nearly killed him. The hazing included:

The “Pledge Fanny Pack” Humiliation: Pledges were required to carry a fanny pack 24/7 containing condoms, a sex toy, nicotine devices, and other degrading items. Failure meant punishment or expulsion.

Physical Torture: Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, and “save-your-brother” drills. Cold-weather exposure in underwear. Lying in vomit-soaked grass. Being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding” with threats of actual waterboarding.

Forced Consumption Rituals: Milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns consumed until vomiting, followed immediately by more sprints.

The November 3 Workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats, creed recitation under threat of expulsion from the fraternity.

Medical Catastrophe: Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe skeletal muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure. He passed brown urine, could not stand without help, and was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels confirming the life-threatening conditions. He faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.

Institutional Response: On November 6, 2025, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters suspended the Beta Nu chapter. On November 14, chapter members voted to surrender their charter. The University of Houston called the conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary measures up to expulsion and cooperation with law enforcement.

The Lawsuit: We filed a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit against the University of Houston, the UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders and members. The case is actively litigated in Harris County.

This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s a pattern we see across Texas universities—including those where Moody students enroll. The same national organizations, the same dangerous traditions, the same institutional failures occur whether your child is at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other Texas campus.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Moody families who may be unfamiliar with modern Greek life or campus traditions, understanding what constitutes hazing is crucial. Hazing isn’t just “bad behavior” or “boys being boys”—it’s systematic abuse with real consequences.

A Modern Definition of Hazing

Hazing means 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. Critically, “I agreed to it” does not make it legal or safe when there’s peer pressure and power imbalance.

Main Categories of Hazing in Today’s College Environment

Alcohol and Substance Hazing:

Forced or coerced drinking games (“lineups,” “century club,” “power hour”)
Chugging challenges with hard liquor
Pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances
“Big/Little” nights with handles of alcohol

Physical Hazing:

Paddling and beatings (still occurring despite national prohibitions)
Extreme calisthenics or “smokings” far beyond normal conditioning
Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions” or tasks
Food/water deprivation as punishment
Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing:

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions, degrading costumes
Acts with racial or sexist overtones, slurs, or role-play
Public shaming rituals

Psychological Hazing:

Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
Manipulation or forced confessions
“Roasts” or interrogation sessions
Social media humiliation campaigns

Digital/Online Hazing:

Group chat dares and “challenges” on GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord
Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos on Snapchat, TikTok
24/7 availability demands with immediate response requirements
Location tracking via Find My Friends or similar apps

Where Hazing Actually Happens in Texas

Moody families should understand that hazing extends far beyond stereotypical “frat parties”:

Fraternities and Sororities:

Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternities
Panhellenic sororities
National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) “Divine Nine” organizations
Multicultural Greek Council groups

Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups:

Texas A&M Corps of Cadets (with its own hazing history)
ROTC programs at various universities
Military-style discipline organizations

Athletic Teams:

Football, basketball, baseball programs
Cheer and spirit squads
Club sports with initiation traditions

Performance and Spirit Groups:

Marching bands
Texas Cowboys-type tradition groups
Spirit organizations like UT’s “Absolute Texxas”

Academic and Service Organizations:

Some honor societies
Professional fraternities
Service organizations with initiation rituals

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

Law & Liability Framework: Texas and Federal Protections

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code Chapter 37)

For Moody families navigating a hazing situation, understanding Texas law is essential. Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that provide both criminal penalties and civil liability pathways.

Texas Education Code § 37.151 Definition:
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.

Plain English Translation for Moody Families:
If someone makes your child do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk, that’s hazing under Texas law.

Key Points Moody Parents Should Know:

Can happen on or off campus (location doesn’t matter)
Can be mental or physical harm
Intent: Doesn’t have to be malicious; “reckless” is enough (knew the risk and did it anyway)
“Consent” is not a defense: Even if your child agreed, it’s still hazing if it meets the definition

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

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

Also Criminal:

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

Organizational Liability in Texas

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability:
Organizations (fraternities, sororities, clubs, teams) can be criminally prosecuted for hazing if:

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

Penalties for Organizations:

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

Why This Matters for Moody Families:
This shows that both individuals AND the organization can be held accountable criminally. Civil suits can target both as well, which is crucial when seeking compensation for medical expenses, therapy, and other damages.

§ 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 from the report.

Also: In medical emergencies, Texas law and many university policies provide amnesty for students who call 911, even if they were drinking underage or involved in the hazing themselves.

Why This Matters for Moody Families:
This encourages bystanders and victims to report without fear of getting in trouble. In practice: students often still fear retaliation or social consequences, but the law protects them.

§ 37.155 Consent Not a Defense

It is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the hazing activity.

Plain English:
Even if your child said “yes” or “I want to do this,” it’s still a crime if it meets the hazing definition.

Why This Matters:
Directly rebuts the #1 defense organizations use (“they agreed to it”).

Criminal vs Civil Cases: What Moody Families Need to Understand

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (prosecutor)
Aim: punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical hazing-related criminal charges can include:
- Hazing offenses
- Furnishing alcohol to minors
- Assault, battery, or even manslaughter in fatal cases

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: monetary compensation and accountability
Focus on:
- Negligence and gross negligence
- Wrongful death
- Negligent hiring/supervision
- Premises liability
- Emotional distress

Note that both types can run side-by-side, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. Many Moody families find that civil litigation is the only path to real accountability and compensation for their child’s injuries.

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

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
Requires colleges that receive federal aid to:

Report hazing incidents more transparently
Strengthen hazing education and prevention
Maintain public hazing data (phased in by around 2026)

Title IX / Clery:
When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations can be triggered. Clery requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics; hazing incidents often overlap with those categories when there are assaults or alcohol/drug crimes.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Understanding potential defendants helps Moody families see the full scope of accountability:

Individual Students:

The ones who planned, supplied the alcohol, carried out the acts, or helped cover them up

Local Chapter / Organization:

The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if it’s a legal entity)
Individuals acting as officers or “pledge educators” can be key

National Fraternity/Sorority:

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

University or Governing Board:

The school or regents may be sued under certain negligence or civil-rights theories
Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference

Third Parties:

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

Every case is fact-specific; not every party is liable in every situation. Our investigation determines which entities bear responsibility.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017):
Bid-acceptance event with heavy drinking. Severe falls captured on chapter cameras; hours delayed before medical help. Dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members; civil litigation; new Pennsylvania anti-hazing law named after him. Takeaway for Moody families: Extreme intoxication, delay in calling 911, and a culture of silence can be legally devastating.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017):
Big/little event; pledge given a handle of liquor; drank to dangerous levels; died. Criminal hazing charges against members; FSU temporarily suspended Greek life and overhauled policies. Takeaway: Formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):
“Bible study” drinking game; forced to drink when answering questions incorrectly. Death led to felony hazing law in Louisiana (Max Gruver Act). Takeaway: Legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021):
Pledge night; forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey; died from alcohol poisoning. Multiple criminal convictions; BGSU agreed to nearly $3 million settlement with the family; other settlements with fraternity/individuals. Takeaway: Universities can face significant financial and reputational consequences along with fraternities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013):
Pledge at a fraternity retreat subjected to a violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual. Suffered fatal head injuries; help was delayed. Multiple members convicted; fraternity banned from Pennsylvania. Takeaway for Moody families: Off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or worse than parties, and national orgs can face serious sanctions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University football (2023–2025):
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the football program. Multiple lawsuits against the university, staff; head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired and later settled a wrongful-termination suit confidentially. Takeaway: Hazing is not limited to Greek life; big-money athletic programs can harbor systemic abuse.

What These Cases Mean for Moody Families

Common threads: forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed or denied medical care, cover-ups. Reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements often follow only after tragedy and litigation. Moody families facing hazing at Texas universities are not alone and are operating in a landscape shaped by these national lessons.

Texas Focus: Where Moody Students Attend College

Baylor University (Waco, McLennan County)

Campus & Culture Snapshot for Moody Families:
Located just minutes from Moody in Waco, Baylor University represents the most immediate campus concern for many local families. As a private Christian university with approximately 20,000 students, Baylor has a significant Greek life presence despite its religious identity. The campus culture balances faith traditions with active fraternity and sorority systems that include both social and service organizations.

Baylor’s Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels:
Baylor prohibits hazing in all forms through its Student Policies and Procedures. The university defines hazing broadly as “any action or activity that causes or is likely to cause mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule.” Reporting channels include:

Office of Student Conduct (254-710-1715)
Dean of Students (254-710-2425)
Baylor University Police Department (254-710-2222)
Anonymous reporting through the Baylor Tip Line

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses:
Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following a hazing investigation; suspensions staggered over the early season. The incident revealed ongoing challenges in athletic program oversight despite Baylor’s “zero tolerance” policies.

Fraternity Discipline Patterns: Like many universities, Baylor has faced recurring fraternity conduct issues. While specific hazing incidents may not always make public news, the pattern of organizational conduct problems suggests underlying cultural issues that Moody families should be aware of.

How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed for Moody Families:
Given Baylor’s location in Waco (McLennan County), legal proceedings would typically involve:

Criminal charges: Filed with Waco Police Department or McLennan County District Attorney
Civil lawsuits: Filed in McLennan County courts
University discipline: Handled through Baylor’s internal conduct process

Potential defendants in a Baylor hazing case could include individual students, the local chapter, national fraternity/sorority headquarters, Baylor University, and property owners where hazing occurred. Baylor’s status as a private university affects sovereign immunity considerations.

What Moody Students & Parents at Baylor Should Do:

Immediate reporting: Contact Baylor PD (254-710-2222) for emergencies or the Office of Student Conduct for non-emergencies
Medical attention: Baylor’s Health Center can provide initial care, but serious injuries should go to local hospitals
Evidence preservation: Screenshot all communications immediately
Legal consultation: Contact an attorney experienced in both Texas hazing law and private university litigation
Understand Baylor’s culture: The religious context may affect how reports are handled and perceived

Texas A&M University (College Station)

Campus & Culture Snapshot for Moody Families:
Many Moody students choose Texas A&M for its strong academic programs and unique traditions. With over 70,000 students across its campuses, A&M has one of the largest Greek life systems in Texas, plus the distinctive Corps of Cadets program. The university’s culture emphasizes tradition, which can sometimes mask dangerous hazing practices.

Texas A&M’s Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels:
Texas A&M prohibits hazing under University Rule 24.06.01.M1 and provides multiple reporting options:

Student Conduct Office (979-458-2277)
Texas A&M University Police Department (979-845-2345)
Anonymous reporting through the EthicsPoint system
Corps of Cadets specific channels for military-style organizations

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses:
Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Two pledges alleged forced strenuous activity; substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit poured on them, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. Pledges sued the fraternity for $1 million; the fraternity was suspended for two years by the university.

Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A cadet alleged degrading hazing, including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The cadet sought over $1 million; A&M stated it handled the matter under its rules, highlighting the unique challenges of military-style organizations.

How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Criminal jurisdiction: College Station Police Department or Brazos County Sheriff
Civil venue: Brazos County courts
Additional considerations: As a public university, Texas A&M has sovereign immunity protections that require specific legal strategies to overcome

What Moody Students & Parents at Texas A&M Should Do:

Recognize that Corps of Cadets hazing requires specialized understanding of military-style discipline versus abuse
Document both Greek life and Corps incidents thoroughly
Understand that A&M’s traditions may be used to justify dangerous behavior
Seek attorneys experienced with public university liability in Texas

University of Texas at Austin

Campus & Culture Snapshot for Moody Families:
UT Austin attracts Moody students with its academic reputation and vibrant campus life. With one of the most transparent hazing reporting systems in Texas, UT provides more public data than many universities—but this transparency reveals ongoing problems.

UT Austin’s Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels:
UT maintains a public Hazing Violations page listing organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions. Reporting options include:

Office of the Dean of Students (512-471-2841)
UTPD (512-471-4441)
Anonymous reporting through the Behavior Concerns and COVID-19 Advice Line
Direct reporting forms on the hazing prevention website

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses (From Public Records):
Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education.

Texas Wranglers (Multiple years): This spirit organization has faced repeated sanctions for hazing violations including forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (January 2024): An Australian exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members at a party; injuries included dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose. The student sued the SAE chapter for over $1 million; the chapter was already under suspension for prior hazing/safety violations.

How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Criminal venue: UT Police Department or Austin Police Department
Civil jurisdiction: Travis County courts
Strategic advantage: UT’s public violation records provide ready-made pattern evidence for lawsuits

What Moody Students & Parents at UT Austin Should Do:

Check the public database before your child joins any organization
Use the transparency to your advantage in building cases
Understand that repeated violations on UT’s log show institutional knowledge
Recognize that spirit groups and honor societies haze too, not just fraternities

Southern Methodist University (Dallas)

Campus & Culture Snapshot for Moody Families:
SMU’s reputation as a private, affluent campus with strong Greek life attracts some Moody students. The university’s hazing prevention efforts include innovative programs but face ongoing challenges with enforcement.

SMU’s Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels:
SMU prohibits hazing through its Student Code of Conduct and provides:

Office of Student Affairs (214-768-4564)
SMU Police Department (214-768-3333)
Anonymous reporting through Real Response system
Greek life specific reporting channels

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses:
Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep; chapter suspended; restrictions on recruiting until around 2021.

Ongoing Greek Life Challenges: Despite prevention programs, SMU continues to face hazing allegations, particularly during fall recruitment periods.

How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Criminal jurisdiction: SMU Police or Dallas Police Department
Civil venue: Dallas County courts
Unique aspects: Private university status affects transparency and liability considerations

What Moody Students & Parents at SMU Should Do:

Understand that private university processes differ from public institutions
Recognize that affluence and tradition can enable cover-ups
Document everything thoroughly as internal reports aren’t publicly posted
Seek counsel experienced with private university litigation

University of Houston

Campus & Culture Snapshot for Moody Families:
While farther from Moody, UH attracts Texas students with its urban campus and diverse programs. The ongoing Pi Kappa Phi case we’re litigating shows the serious risks present even at commuter-heavy campuses.

UH’s Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels:
UH prohibits hazing through the Student Code of Conduct and provides:

Dean of Students Office (713-743-5475)
UHPD (713-743-3333)
Center for Fraternity and Sorority Life specific reporting
Online reporting forms

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses:
Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Case (2025): Our ongoing litigation described in detail earlier shows UH’s challenges with severe hazing despite policies.

Historical Patterns: UH has faced recurring fraternity conduct issues, with suspensions and probations indicating systemic problems.

How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Criminal jurisdiction: UH Police or Houston Police Department
Civil venue: Harris County courts
Sovereign immunity considerations: As part of the state system, UH has protections requiring specific legal approaches

What Moody Students & Parents at UH Should Do:

Recognize that urban campus location doesn’t reduce hazing risks
Understand that commuter students can be particularly vulnerable to isolation
Document off-campus incidents thoroughly (many occur at private houses)
Seek counsel experienced with Harris County courts and procedures

The Greek Ecosystem Around Moody: Public Records Reality

Moody families deserve to know who stands behind the Greek organizations connected to their children. Through our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we maintain comprehensive data on Greek organizations across Texas. Here’s what exists in the public records for organizations serving Central Texas families:

Public Records: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Serving Moody Families

IRS B83 Registered Organizations in Texas (Sample):

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, EIN 364091267, Waco, TX 76710-4154 (IRS B83 filing)
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Nu Iota Chapter Baylor University, EIN 521346485, Waco, TX 76703-2033 (IRS B81 filing)
Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc, EIN 462267515, Frisco, TX 75035-6629 (IRS B83 housing corporation)
Texas Rho Chapter of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, EIN 741942292, Waco, TX 76706-4115 (IRS B83 chapter filing)
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, EIN 263170920, Denton, TX 76204-0000 (academic honor society)

Cause IQ Metro Organizations in Waco Metro Area (Sample):

Phi Gamma Delta – Tau Deuteron Chapter (Baylor University chapter)
Kappa Kappa Gamma – Baylor House Board
Delta Delta Delta – Baylor Chapter
Baylor Panhellenic Alumnae Association

Cross-Validated Brands Appearing in Both IRS and Cause IQ Data:
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority appears in both IRS B83 filings and Cause IQ metro data, showing how the same national brand operates across undergraduate chapters, graduate/alumni chapters, and honor/professional affiliates throughout Texas.

Where Moody Families Send Their Kids: Campus Connections

Moody students typically attend universities within commuting distance or major Texas hubs:

Local/Regional Campuses:

Baylor University (Waco, McLennan County) – 20 minutes from Moody
McLennan Community College (Waco) – Local community college
Texas State Technical College (Waco) – Technical education

Statewide University Hubs:

University of Texas at Austin – Many Central Texas students’ choice
Texas A&M University – Popular for engineering and agriculture
Texas Tech University – West Texas option
University of North Texas – North Texas destination

Other Common Choices:

Texas Christian University (Fort Worth)
University of Houston (for specific programs)
Stephen F. Austin State University (Nacogdoches)
Sam Houston State University (Huntsville)

Organizations Behind the Letters at These Campuses

The fraternities and sororities at these campuses connect to complex networks of liability:

At Baylor University (from official roster):

Panhellenic Sororities: Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Phi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, Zeta Tau Alpha
IFC Fraternities: Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Chi
NPHC Organizations: Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alpha Phi Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta

National Histories That Matter for Moody Families:
The same national organizations involved in fatal hazing cases nationwide also operate at Texas schools:

Pi Kappa Alpha: Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green ($10M settlement)
Sigma Alpha Epsilon: Multiple deaths nationwide, Texas A&M chemical burns case
Phi Delta Theta: Max Gruver death at LSU
Pi Kappa Phi: Andrew Coffey death at Florida State

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

Critical Evidence in Modern Hazing Cases

Digital Communications (Most Critical Category):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, fraternity apps
Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments
Recovery capability: Digital forensics can often recover deleted messages

Photos & Videos:

Content filmed by members during events
Footage shared in group chats or posted on social media
Security camera or doorbell footage at houses and venues

Internal Organization Documents:

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, ritual “traditions” lists
Emails/texts from officers about “what we’ll do to pledges”
National policies and training materials

University Records:

Prior conduct files, probation/suspensions, letters of warning
Incident reports to campus police or student conduct offices
Clery reports and similar disclosures

Medical and Psychological Records:

Emergency room and hospitalization records
Surgery and rehab notes
Toxicology reports
Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidality)

Witness Testimony:

Pledges, members, roommates, RAs, coaches, trainers, bystanders
Former members who quit or were expelled

Damages in Hazing Cases: What Families Can Recover

Medical Bills & Future Care:

Immediate care (ER, ICU, hospitalization)
Surgeries, ongoing treatment, physical therapy, medications
Long-term care for brain injuries or organ damage (like rhabdomyolysis kidney damage)

Lost Earnings / Educational Impact:

Missed semesters and tuition costs
Setbacks in entering the workforce
Reduced earning capacity if injuries are permanent

Non-Economic Damages:

Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress, trauma, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life

Wrongful Death Damages (for families):

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of companionship and support
Emotional harm to parents and siblings

Punitive Damages (when available):

Purpose: Punish defendants for especially reckless, willful, or malicious conduct
Awarded when defendants had prior warnings and ignored them
Available under Texas law in certain circumstances

How Recovery Works in Practice

Most Cases Settle:
Confidential terms often, but public amounts like Foltz $10M, Gruver $6.1M show potential ranges.

How Settlement Funds Are Used:

Immediate medical bills and lost income
Long-term care funding (therapy, medications, life care for catastrophic injuries)
Educational continuity (transferring to complete degrees elsewhere)
Legacy & advocacy (many families create foundations or scholarships)

Accountability Beyond Money:

Institutional reform through consent decrees
Chapter closure or organization bans
Public transparency to prevent future harm

Insurance Coverage Fights in Hazing Cases

Fraternity and university insurance companies use specific tactics:

Common Insurance Arguments:

“Hazing is an intentional act excluded from coverage”
“The policy doesn’t cover these defendants”
“Claims were reported too late”

How We Counter These Arguments:

Argue negligent supervision vs intentional act
Identify all potential policies (homeowner’s, chapter, national, university umbrella)
Use bad faith claims when insurers wrongfully deny coverage

Our insider knowledge from Mr. Lupe Peña’s experience as a former insurance defense attorney is crucial here—we know their playbook because we used to run it.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Moody Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
Extreme fatigue, exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight loss or gain (from food/water restriction or stress)
Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, calls at 3 AM)
Injuries to hands, back, legs from paddling or forced exercise
Chemical burns, rashes, or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning or drug use

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-member activities
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability, anger
Defensive when asked about the organization
Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
Sudden 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 exams or assignments to attend “mandatory” events

Digital/Social Behavior:

Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
Anxiety when phone buzzes or pings
Deleting messages or clearing browser history obsessively
Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response

How to Talk to Your Child:

Ask open questions: “How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
Express concern without judgment: “I’ve noticed you seem really tired lately.”
Emphasize safety: “Your health is more important than any group.”
Offer unconditional support: “You can always come to me, no matter what.”

If Your Child Is Hurt:

Get medical attention immediately
Document everything (photos of injuries, texts, what they tell you)
Save names, dates, locations
Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24-48 hours

Dealing with the University:

Document every communication with administrators
Ask specifically about prior incidents involving the same organization
Don’t sign anything without legal review
Remember: university process ≠ real accountability

When to Talk to a Lawyer:

If your child has significant physical or psychological harm
If you feel the university or organization is minimizing what happened
If evidence is being destroyed or witnesses intimidated
If criminal charges are being considered

For Students / Pledges

Is This Hazing or Just Tradition?
Ask yourself:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something unsafe?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would the university or my parents approve if they knew?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie?

How to Exit Safely:

Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend)
Send written notice: “I am resigning my membership effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
If threatened, report immediately to campus police and Dean of Students

Evidence Collection for Students:

Screenshots of group chats: Capture full conversations with timestamps
Voice memos/recordings: Texas is a one-party consent state
Photos/videos: Injuries, locations, objects used in hazing
Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
Witness information: Names and contacts for others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

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 a cover-up; can be obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

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, then call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms
What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements
Why it’s wrong: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are often far below case value
What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing it first

4. Posting Details on Social Media Before Talking to a 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 your lawyer control public messaging

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, or extract statements that hurt the case
What to do instead: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer

6. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”
What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute of limitations runs
What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

7. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer
What adjusters say: “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 instead: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

FAQ: Answers for Moody Families

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

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

“Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, 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. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

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

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

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

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

When your Moody family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway.

Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña’s Defense Background):
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. He understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies. We know their playbook because we used to run it.

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello):
Ralph Manginello is one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation—taking on billion-dollar corporations with unlimited legal budgets. His federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) and HCCLA criminal defense background mean we’re not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams. We’ve taken on the biggest defendants and won.

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience:
We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, working with economists to value lifetime care needs and future earning capacity. We don’t settle cheap—we build cases that force real accountability.

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise:
Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. We can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure, navigating both legal tracks effectively.

Investigative Depth Unmatched in Texas:
Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros. We maintain comprehensive databases of IRS-registered organizations, campus rosters, and national patterns. When we take your case, we don’t start from zero—we already know the organizational landscape.

Spanish-Language Services Available:
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can serve Spanish-speaking Texas families directly. Hablamos Español—contact Lupe at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish.

How Our Broader Experience Strengthens Hazing Cases

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation Credential:
Our involvement in the BP litigation proves our capability against massive institutional defendants who prioritize reputation over safety. The same skills that uncovered BP’s safety failures apply to exposing fraternity and university knowledge of hazing risks.

Trucking & Maritime Evidence Expertise:
Our experience securing and analyzing trucking logs, maintenance records, and electronic data translates directly to hazing investigations. We know how to obtain deleted messages, chapter records, and internal documents that organizations try to hide.

Wrongful Death Economic Analysis:
Working with economists on lifetime care plans and earning capacity calculations prepares us to value the full impact of hazing injuries—whether physical trauma, psychological harm, or wrongful death.

Federal Court Experience:
Title IX claims, civil rights actions, and complex institutional cases often belong in federal court. Our admission to the Southern District of Texas means we’re prepared for whatever venue your case requires.

Call to Action for Moody Families

If Hazing Has Impacted Your Family

Whether you’re in Moody, Waco, or anywhere in Central Texas, if hazing has hurt your child, you don’t have to face this alone. The distance from our community to major campuses doesn’t diminish your right to accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation:

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

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

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

We Serve Families Throughout Texas:
From our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve Moody families and students across Texas. Whether your child attends Baylor nearby or a university hours away, Texas hazing law and experienced Texas counsel can help.

Time Is Critical:
Evidence disappears fast—deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses. Universities move quickly to control narratives. Statutes of limitations run. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Your Child’s Safety and Recovery Come First:
We prioritize your family’s wellbeing while pursuing accountability. We understand this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

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 fees explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

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