Hazing Lawsuits & Accountability in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide for Nederland Parents & Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You Have Legal Rights

We understand the nightmare that begins with that late-night phone call or the quiet confession over holiday break. Your child—the one you sent to college with hopes for their future—has been hurt, humiliated, or endangered during what was supposed to be a rewarding campus experience. For families right here in Nederland, Port Neches, Port Arthur, and across Jefferson County, this reality hits especially close to home when local students attend Lamar University or travel to major campuses across Texas.

Right now, our firm is leading one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas: the $10 million lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders. This case reveals exactly what modern hazing looks like: forced physical endurance that caused rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, humiliating “pledge fanny pack” requirements, simulated waterboarding, and institutional failures at multiple levels. The chapter has been shut down, but the physical and psychological harm to this young man continues.

If you’re a Nederland parent with a child at Lamar University, Texas A&M, UT Austin, or any Texas campus, this comprehensive guide explains what hazing really looks like in 2025, your legal rights under Texas law, and how experienced hazing attorneys build cases that hold powerful institutions accountable.

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 Leonel Bermudez Case: What Modern Hazing Looks Like at Texas Universities

In November 2025, our firm filed a $10 million lawsuit on behalf of University of Houston student Leonel Bermudez that reveals exactly how dangerous and degrading campus hazing has become. This case isn’t about “boys being boys” or “traditional pranks”—it’s about systematic abuse that nearly killed a young man.

What Actually Happened to Leonel Bermudez

Leonel accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter at UH in September 2025. What followed was months of escalating abuse:

The “Pledge Fanny Pack” Humiliation:

• Pledges were forced to carry a fanny pack 24/7 containing condoms, a sex toy, nicotine devices, and other degrading items
• Failure to comply meant physical punishment or expulsion threats

Physical Torture Disguised as “Workouts”:

• Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, and “save-your-brother” drills
• Being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate sprints
• The November 3 “workout”: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion

Medical Catastrophe:

• Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe skeletal muscle breakdown)
• He suffered acute kidney failure
• He passed brown urine, couldn’t stand without help
• Four-day hospitalization with critically high creatine kinase levels
• Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage

Other Brutal Acts in the Same Chapter:

• Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour
• A pledge lost consciousness during early-morning workouts at Yellowstone Park

Institutional Response:

• November 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters suspended the Beta Nu chapter
• November 14, 2025: Chapter members voted to surrender their charter
• University of Houston called the conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary measures

Defendants in the Lawsuit:

• University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents
• Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
• Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu housing corporation
• 13 individual fraternity leaders (chapter president, pledgemaster, sorority relations chair, risk manager, and others)

This case is currently being litigated by our firm, and media coverage has been extensive. The Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case and ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit provide detailed accounts of the abuse and medical consequences.

Why This Matters for Nederland Families:
The same national organizations that operate at UH also have chapters at Lamar University, Texas A&M, and other schools where Jefferson County students attend. The patterns are identical: forced consumption, physical endurance beyond safe limits, humiliation, and institutional knowledge that precedes tragedy.

Hazing in 2025: What Nederland Parents Need to Recognize

Modern hazing has evolved far beyond stereotypical “frat party” behavior. For Nederland families with children at Texas universities, understanding these patterns could save a life.

Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

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

• 24/7 digital control: Constant GroupMe/WhatsApp demands, required immediate responses at all hours
• Servitude requirements: Being “on call” as a designated driver, running errands for older members
• Social isolation: Cutting off contact with non-members, requiring permission to socialize
• Identity stripping: Being assigned derogatory names, not allowed to speak unless spoken to

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Clear Abuse)

• Sleep deprivation: Late-night “meetings,” 3 AM wake-up calls, multi-day events with minimal sleep
• Food/water manipulation: Forced consumption of unpleasant substances, meal restrictions
• Public humiliation: Embarrassing costumes, forced performances, “roasting” sessions
• “Voluntary” coercion: Activities framed as optional but with clear social consequences for refusal

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (Criminal Conduct)

• Forced alcohol consumption: “Big/Little” nights, drinking games with wrong-answer penalties, handles of liquor
• Physical beatings: Paddling, punching, “conditioning” workouts that cause injury
• Sexualized abuse: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, “elephant walk” formations
• Dangerous environments: Locked in freezing rooms, exposure to extreme conditions
• Chemical abuse: Texas A&M SAE case where pledges were doused in industrial cleaner causing chemical burns

Digital Hazing: The 24/7 Pressure Cooker

For Nederland parents, the most insidious development is digital hazing that follows your child everywhere:

• Group chat tyranny: Pledges monitored 24/7 via GroupMe, Discord, WhatsApp
• Social media humiliation: Forced TikTok challenges, Instagram story dares
• Location tracking: Required sharing of real-time location via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
• Evidence destruction culture: Messages set to auto-delete, coaching on what to say if caught

Where Hazing Happens Beyond Fraternities

While fraternities get most attention, Nederland students face risks in:

• Sororities: Increasing reports of sleep deprivation, forced drinking, and psychological abuse
• Corps of Cadets programs: Texas A&M’s Corps has faced multiple lawsuits including “roasted pig” bondage allegations
• Athletic teams: From Northwestern University football to Baylor baseball, sports hazing is widespread
• Spirit organizations: UT Austin’s Texas Cowboys and similar groups have faced sanctions
• Marching bands and performance groups: FAMU’s fatal hazing case showed this extends beyond Greek life

Texas Hazing Law: What Nederland Families Need to Know

Texas has some of the nation’s most comprehensive hazing laws, but understanding how they work is crucial for Jefferson County families seeking accountability.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Hazing Provisions

§ 37.151 Definition:
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act (on or off campus) that:

• Endangers mental or physical health or safety of a student
• Occurs for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership
• “Consent is not a defense” (Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states this)

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing without 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 charges: Individual officers can face charges for failing to report hazing

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability:
Organizations can be:

• Fined up to $10,000 per violation
• Have university recognition revoked
• Face civil lawsuits for negligent supervision

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases (State vs. Individuals):

• Brought by prosecutors (Harris County, Travis County, Brazos County, etc.)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter
• Requires proof “beyond reasonable doubt”

Civil Cases (Your Family vs. Responsible Parties):

• Brought by victims/surviving families
• Aim: Compensation and accountability
• Focus: Negligence, wrongful death, emotional distress, premises liability
• Requires “preponderance of evidence” (more likely than not)
• Can proceed even without criminal charges

Federal Laws Overlaying Texas Cases

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

• Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
• Strengthens prevention education
• Public hazing data reporting phased in by 2026

Title IX Implications:

• When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility
• Creates additional reporting and response obligations
• Can waive some sovereign immunity protections for public universities

Clery Act Requirements:

• Campus crime statistics must include certain hazing incidents
• Creates public records of institutional responses

Who Can Be Held Liable in Texas Hazing Cases

For Nederland families pursuing justice, understanding the “defendant universe” is critical:

1. Individual Students:

• Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or participated in cover-ups
• Chapter officers with supervisory responsibility

2. Local Chapter/Organization:

• The fraternity/sorority as a legal entity
• Housing corporations that own chapter properties

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

• Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
• Key factor: What they knew or should have known from prior incidents

4. University or Governing Board:

• UH, Texas A&M, UT, Lamar University, etc.
• Potential theories: Negligent supervision, premises liability, Title IX violations
• Public universities have some sovereign immunity but exceptions exist

5. Third Parties:

• Property owners/landlords of off-campus houses
• Bars or alcohol providers (Texas dram shop liability)
• Security companies or event organizers

National Hazing Cases: Patterns that Repeat at Texas Universities

The tragedies at other universities aren’t distant news—they’re blueprints for what can happen here in Texas. Nederland families should understand these patterns because the same national organizations operate at our local campuses.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

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

• 20-year-old pledge forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
• Died from alcohol poisoning
• $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, $3M from BGSU)
• Why this matters for Texas: Pi Kappa Alpha has chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):

• “Bible study” drinking game with wrong-answer penalties
• Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
• Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
• Why this matters for Texas: Phi Delta Theta has chapters at all major Texas universities

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

• Bid acceptance night with extreme drinking
• Fell multiple times on chapter house stairs; help delayed for hours
• Dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members
• Pennsylvania enacted Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law
• Why this matters for Texas: Beta Theta Pi operates at Texas A&M, UT, other campuses

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

• “Glass ceiling” ritual: blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled
• Died from traumatic brain injury; help delayed
• National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
• Pi Delta Psi banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
• Why this matters for Texas: Shows organizations can face criminal liability

Collin Wiant – Ohio University, Sigma Pi (2018):

• 18-year-old died after collapsing at off-campus Sigma Pi house
• Hazing involved nitrous oxide and other abuse
• Led to “Collin’s Law: The Anti-Hazing Act” in Ohio
• Why this matters for Texas: Off-campus “unofficial” houses don’t eliminate liability

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025):

• Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within program
• Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
• Head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired, later settled wrongful-termination suit
• Why this matters for Texas: Athletic programs at Texas schools face similar risks

Baylor University Baseball (2020):

• 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
• Staggered suspensions over early season
• Why this matters for Nederland: Baylor is a common destination for Southeast Texas students

What These National Cases Mean for Nederland Families

1. Patterns repeat: The same dangerous behaviors occur at Texas chapters of national organizations
2. National HQ knowledge is key: Organizations know their chapters’ histories but often fail to intervene
3. Legislative impact works: Public outrage leads to stronger laws (Texas could see similar reforms)
4. Settlements are substantial: $1M-$14M ranges show serious financial consequences
5. Cover-ups make things worse: Delayed medical care and destroyed evidence increase liability

Texas University Focus: Where Nederland Students Face Hazing Risks

Nederland families send students throughout Texas, but several campuses deserve particular attention due to their proximity, size, and Greek life presence.

Lamar University: The Local Risk for Jefferson County Families

For Nederland parents, Lamar University represents the most immediate hazing risk. Located just minutes away in Beaumont, Lamar has active Greek life and a history of documented incidents.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Public university in Beaumont (Jefferson County)
• Active Greek community with IFC, NPHC, and Panhellenic organizations
• Major chapters include Pi Kappa Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Sigma Gamma Rho, and others
• Many Nederland, Port Neches, and Port Arthur students commute or live on campus

Documented Greek Organizations at Lamar (from public records):

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Mu Epsilon Chapter (Beaumont, TX – Undergrad chapter at Lamar)
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Alpha Psi Sigma (Beaumont, TX – Alumnae chapter)
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Epsilon Kappa Alumni (Beaumont, TX – Alumni association)
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Lambda Lambda Chapter (Beaumont, TX – Undergrad chapter at Lamar, founded 2018)
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Beaumont Alumni (Beaumont, TX – Graduate chapter)
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Beaumont Alumnae (Beaumont, TX – Graduate chapter)

How Hazing Cases at Lamar Might Proceed:

• Jurisdiction: Jefferson County courts (Beaumont)
• Police involvement: Beaumont PD and/or Lamar University police
• Key evidence sources: Group chats, medical records from Christus or Baptist hospitals, witness testimony from local students
• Potential defendants: Individual students, local chapters, national organizations, Lamar University

What Lamar Students & Nederland Parents Should Do:

1. Report to multiple authorities: Lamar Dean of Students, Beaumont PD if crimes occurred
2. Document medical care locally: Hospitals in Beaumont will create vital records
3. Preserve digital evidence: Southeast Texas students use same apps (GroupMe, Snapchat) as statewide
4. Understand local legal landscape: Jefferson County courts handle these cases regularly

University of Houston: Major Destination for Southeast Texas Students

UH represents the largest single destination for Nederland-area students attending college outside Jefferson County. The Leonel Bermudez case shows exactly what can happen there.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Large urban campus with significant Greek life
• 50+ fraternity and sorority chapters across multiple councils
• Common destinations for Nederland valedictorians and scholarship recipients
• Many Southeast Texas alumni in Houston create pipeline for local students

Recent Documented Incident – The Bermudez Case:

• Fraternity: Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter
• Abuses: Physical torture, forced consumption, humiliation rituals
• Medical consequences: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, four-day hospitalization
• Outcome: Chapter closed, $10M lawsuit pending, criminal investigation possible
• Media coverage: Click2Houston, ABC13, Hoodline

Other UH Hazing History:

• 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha case: Pledge suffered lacerated spleen during hazing event
• Multiple other fraternities/sororities on disciplinary probation for hazing violations
• UH maintains hazing reporting but limited public transparency compared to UT

How UH Cases Affect Nederland Families:

• Geographic proximity: 90-minute drive means parents can visit hospitalized students
• Medical resources: Houston hospitals (Memorial Hermann, Methodist) treat severe cases
• Legal jurisdiction: Harris County courts handle these cases
• Expert access: Houston has medical and psychological experts for testimony

Texas A&M University: Corps of Cadets & Greek Life Risks

Texas A&M attracts many Nederland students, particularly those interested in engineering, agriculture, and the Corps of Cadets.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Massive Greek community with historical hazing issues
• Corps of Cadets with documented abuse cases
• Strong tradition culture that sometimes enables hazing
• Common destination for Southeast Texas students seeking “true college experience”

Documented Texas A&M Hazing Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

• Pledges doused with industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit
• Caused severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
• Pledges sued fraternity for $1 million
• Chapter suspended for two years
• Why this matters: Shows extreme physical hazing beyond alcohol

Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Lawsuit (2023):

• Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts
• Bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
• Sought over $1 million in damages
• Texas A&M stated it handled matter under its rules
• Why this matters: Shows hazing extends beyond Greek life

Other A&M Disciplinary Actions:

• Multiple fraternities on probation for hazing violations
• Regular suspensions for alcohol-related hazing incidents
• Corps has faced repeated scrutiny but maintains some secrecy

What Nederland A&M Parents Should Know:

• Corps risks are real: Military-style training can cross into abuse
• Bryan/College Station jurisdiction: Brazos County courts and police handle cases
• Medical documentation: College Station hospitals see these injuries regularly
• Tradition defense: Organizations often claim “tradition” to justify abuse

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency & Repeated Violations

UT Austin represents both the gold standard for transparency and a case study in repeated violations.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Highly transparent hazing violations website (hazing.utexas.edu)
• 60+ fraternity/sorority chapters with regular disciplinary actions
• Spirit organizations (Texas Cowboys, etc.) with hazing histories
• Popular destination for top Nederland students

UT’s Public Hazing Violations (Selected Examples):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023):

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

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (2024):

• Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted at party
• Injuries: dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
• Student sued SAE chapter for over $1 million
• Chapter already under suspension for prior violations
• Why this matters: Shows pattern of violence in same organizations

Texas Wranglers & Other Spirit Groups:

• Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol hazing, punishment-based practices
• Shows hazing extends beyond traditional Greek life

Why UT’s Transparency Matters for Nederland Families:

1. Prior pattern evidence: Public records show which organizations repeat violations
2. Knowledge evidence: University clearly knows about problems
3. Settlement leverage: Documented history strengthens negotiation position
4. Precedent: UT’s approach may pressure other Texas schools to improve transparency

Southern Methodist University & Baylor University: Private School Challenges

SMU and Baylor attract Nederland students seeking private education, but their private status creates unique hazing litigation challenges.

SMU’s Greek Culture & Incidents:

• Affluent campus with strong Greek presence
• Kappa Alpha Order incident (2017): New members paddled, forced to drink, sleep deprived
• Chapter suspended for multiple years
• Private university status means less public transparency

Baylor’s History & Recent Issues:

• Religious identity contrasts with documented hazing problems
• Baylor baseball hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation
• University still recovering from broader sexual assault scandal
• “Zero tolerance” policies sometimes conflict with institutional protection

What Private School Status Means for Litigation:

• Less sovereign immunity: Easier to sue than public universities in some ways
• More secrecy: Internal investigations often remain confidential
• Religious considerations: Baylor’s faith identity can complicate certain claims
• Resource advantage: Private schools often have deeper legal defense funds

Texas Fraternity & Sorority Intelligence: The Organizations Behind the Letters

For Nederland families, understanding that local chapter problems connect to national patterns is crucial. These aren’t isolated incidents—they’re systemic issues within national organizations that operate throughout Texas.

Public Records Directory: Texas Greek Organizations Serving Nederland Families

If you’re a parent in Nederland, you deserve to know who really stands behind the Greek organizations connected to your child. Using IRS B83 public filings, campus rosters, and Cause IQ metro data, we maintain intelligence on Texas Greek organizations. Here are examples of the types of entities involved:

IRS B83 Texas-Registered Greek Organizations (Selected Examples):

EIN 746064445 – PI KAPPA ALPHA FRATERNITY
1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627-8843
EPSILON KAPPA CHAPTER – IRS B83 public filing

EIN 237279532 – KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY
PO Box 2142, Prairie View, TX 77446-2142
646 PRAIRIE VIEW ALUMNI – IRS B83 public filing

EIN 262025321 – ALPHA EPSILON PI FRATERNITY
920 W Prairie St, Denton, TX 76201-5816
MU GAMMA CHAPTER – IRS B83 public filing

EIN 740555581 – CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY
2711 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705-4018
CHI OMEGA HOUSE CORPORATION – IRS B83 public filing

EIN 756067776 – KAPPA SIGMA FRATERNITY
3128 Waits Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76109-2330
THETA CHAPTER – IRS B83 public filing

EIN 746084905 – SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY EPSILON XI CHAPTER
4300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204-3067
IRS B83 public filing

EIN 392352450 – ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED – SIGMA GAMMA CHAPTER
PO Box 540026, Houston, TX 77254-0026
IRS B83 public filing

EIN 521346485 – ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED NU IOTA CHAPTER BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
PO Box 2033, Waco, TX 76703-2033
IRS B83 public filing

Beaumont-Port Arthur Metro Greek Organizations (from Cause IQ data):

These organizations operate in our immediate area and serve Lamar University students:

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Mu Epsilon Chapter (Beaumont, TX – Undergrad chapter at Lamar University)
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Alpha Psi Sigma (Beaumont, TX – Alumnae chapter)
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Epsilon Kappa Alumni (Beaumont, TX – Alumni association, Lamar University)
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Lambda Lambda Chapter (Beaumont, TX – Undergrad chapter at Lamar University, founded 2018)
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Beaumont Alumnae (Beaumont, TX – Graduate chapter)
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Beaumont Area Chapter (Beaumont, TX – Graduate chapter)
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Beaumont Alumni (Beaumont, TX – Graduate chapter)

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro (188 total Greek organizations):

• Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (Houston, TX – Alumni/house corporation)
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae (Houston, TX – Graduate chapter)
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Alpha Kappa Omega (Houston, TX – Graduate chapter)
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Beta Sigma Chapter (Houston, TX – Undergrad chapter)

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

• Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green State ($10M settlement)
• David Bogenberger death at Northern Illinois ($14M settlement)
• UH chapter currently involved in Bermudez lawsuit
• Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor, Lamar University

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

• Traumatic brain injury case at University of Alabama
• Chemical burns case at Texas A&M ($1M lawsuit)
• Assault case at UT Austin ($1M+ lawsuit)
• Known for alcohol-related hazing deaths nationwide
• Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

Pi Kappa Phi:

• Andrew Coffey death at Florida State University
• Leonel Bermudez case at UH (our current litigation)
• Known for physical endurance hazing
• Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT

Phi Delta Theta:

• Max Gruver death at LSU (led to Louisiana felony hazing law)
• Known for drinking game hazing
• Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor

Kappa Sigma:

• Chad Meredith death at University of Miami ($12.6M verdict)
• Rhabdomyolysis cases at Texas A&M (ongoing litigation)
• Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor, Lamar University

Why National Histories Matter in Texas Litigation

When we represent Nederland families, we use national organization histories to establish:

1. Foreseeability: The national HQ knew or should have known this could happen
2. Pattern evidence: Same behaviors cause injuries at multiple chapters
3. Negligent supervision: Nationals failed to adequately monitor or intervene
4. Punitive damages potential: Repeated violations show conscious disregard for safety

Example: If a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter at Lamar University engages in forced drinking, we can point to the Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green to show the national organization knew this was deadly but failed to prevent it.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy & Damages for Nederland Families

When hazing injures a Nederland student, building a strong case requires specific strategies tailored to Texas law and local considerations.

Critical Evidence Categories

1. Digital Communications (Most Important Evidence):

• Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, fraternity apps
• Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook messages
• Recovery capability: Digital forensics can often retrieve deleted messages
• Jefferson County consideration: Local phone carriers and ISPs can be subpoenaed

2. Medical Documentation:

• Immediate care: ER records from Christus, Baptist, or Houston hospitals
• Specialist follow-up: Nephrologists for kidney damage, psychiatrists for PTSD
• Ongoing treatment: Physical therapy, counseling, medication records
• Expert testimony: Medical experts to explain permanent damage

3. Photographic & Video Evidence:

• Injury documentation: Multiple angles with ruler/coin for scale
• Location evidence: Photos of houses, rooms, props used in hazing
• Social media content: Videos posted during events (often “deleted” but recoverable)

4. Witness Testimony:

• Other pledges: Often afraid but may cooperate with protection
• Former members: Those who quit or were expelled often have valuable information
• Roommates & friends: Notice behavior changes and physical signs
• Medical personnel: ER doctors, nurses who treated injuries

5. Institutional Records:

• University files: Prior complaints, disciplinary actions, internal investigations
• National HQ records: Incident reports, risk management files, communications
• Insurance policies: Coverage information for all potential defendants

Damages Available in Texas Hazing Cases

For Nederland families, understanding what compensation covers helps make informed decisions:

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical expenses: Past and future care, including:
  • Emergency treatment (ER, ambulance, ICU)
  • Hospitalization (Bermudez: 4 days)
  • Surgeries and specialist care
  • Physical/occupational therapy
  • Psychiatric treatment (PTSD, depression)
  • Medications
• Lost income & earning capacity:
  • Wages lost during recovery
  • Reduced future earnings from permanent disability
  • Educational disruption costs
• Other economic losses:
  • Property damage
  • Relocation expenses (transferring schools)

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm):

• Physical pain & suffering: From injuries and treatments
• Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
• Loss of enjoyment: Can’t participate in sports, activities, normal college life
• Reputational harm: Social stigma and future impact

Wrongful Death Damages (for families):

• Funeral & burial costs
• Loss of financial support from deceased
• Loss of companionship, love, guidance
• Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering

Punitive Damages (When Available):

• Purpose: Punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
• When awarded: Prior warnings ignored, cover-up attempts, extreme cruelty
• Texas caps: Generally limited but can be substantial in intentional conduct cases

Settlement vs. Trial Considerations

Most Cases Settle (Confidentially):

• Why: Defendants avoid public trial, families get compensation sooner
• Range: $375,000 (Snell verdict) to $14M (Bogenberger settlement)
• Confidentiality: Terms often sealed, preventing public disclosure

When Trials Happen:

• Defendants deny liability or make unacceptable offers
• Families want public accountability
• Precedent-setting potential (Meredith $12.6M verdict)
• Our firm’s position: We prepare every case for trial to maximize settlement leverage

Insurance Coverage Complexities

Hazing cases involve intricate insurance battles:

Common Insurance Arguments:

• “Hazing is intentional conduct, not covered”
• “Policy excludes assault/battery”
• “University has sovereign immunity”

How We Counter These Arguments:

1. Negligent supervision claims: Even if hazing was intentional, failure to supervise may be negligent
2. Multiple policy review: Chapter, national, university, individual homeowner policies
3. Bad faith litigation: Insurers who wrongfully deny coverage face additional liability
4. Mr. Lupe Peña’s expertise: As former insurance defense attorney, he knows their tactics

Practical Guide for Nederland Parents: What to Do Right Now

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts (especially if excuses seem inconsistent)
• Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
• Weight changes from food/water manipulation
• Sleep deprivation (calls at 3 AM, can’t stay awake)
• Injuries to hands/back from paddling or forced exercise
• Chemical burns or skin damage
• Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if child doesn’t normally drink)

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

• Sudden secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
• Withdrawal from family, old friends, non-Greek activities
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Defensiveness when asked about the organization
• Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
• Obsession with pleasing older members
• Talking about “just getting through this” or “everyone did it before me”

Academic & Financial Red Flags:

• Grades dropping suddenly
• Missing classes or falling asleep in class
• Large unexplained expenses (forced purchases, “fines”)
• Overdrafts or credit card debt from organizational demands

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally)

1. “How are things going with [fraternity/sorority]? Are you enjoying it?”
2. “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
3. “What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
4. “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
5. “Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
6. “Do you feel like you can leave if you want to, or would there be consequences?”
7. “Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”

48-Hour Action Checklist

HOUR 1–6 (IMMEDIATE CRISIS):

• Get medical attention at nearest ER (Christus or Baptist in Beaumont, Houston hospitals for severe cases)
• Remove child from dangerous situation
• Screenshot any messages they show you
• Photograph visible injuries
• Write down everything they tell you (date, time, what happened, who was there)
• Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

HOUR 6–24 (EVIDENCE PRESERVATION):

• Help child preserve all group chats, DMs, texts (do NOT delete anything)
• Secure clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
• Request copies of all medical records
• Write down names/contact info for other pledges, bystanders
• Note any communications from school but do NOT respond yet

HOUR 24–48 (STRATEGIC DECISIONS):

• Speak with experienced hazing attorney (Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911)
• Decide whether to report to campus/local police (with lawyer’s guidance)
• If school contacts you, refer them to your attorney
• Do NOT talk to insurance adjusters without lawyer present
• Upload all evidence to cloud storage or email to yourself

WEEK ONE PRIORITIES:

• Continue medical documentation and specialist referrals
• Begin evidence gathering with attorney’s help
• Contact other witnesses through legal channels
• Decide on legal strategy with your attorney
• Document any retaliation immediately

Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

We’ve created a video specifically about client mistakes that can damage your injury case. Here are the most critical errors:

1. Letting your child delete messages: Looks like cover-up, can be obstruction of justice
2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly: They lawyer up and destroy evidence
3. Signing university “resolution” forms: May waive your right to sue
4. Posting details on social media: Defense attorneys screenshot everything
5. Letting your child attend “one last meeting”: They get pressured or intimidated
6. Waiting for university investigation: Evidence disappears during delays
7. Talking to insurance adjusters: Recorded statements used against you

Why Attorney911 for Nederland Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Texas Hazing Litigation

When your Nederland 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 (Mr. Lupe Peña):

• Former insurance defense attorney at national firm
• Knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it”
• Fluent Spanish for Hispanic families in Jefferson County

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello):

• One of few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation
• Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
• HCCLA membership signals elite criminal defense capability
• Not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams
• “We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won”

Current High-Stakes Hazing Litigation:

• Lead counsel for Leonel Bermudez in $10M UH Pi Kappa Phi case
• Deep understanding of modern hazing patterns and evidence collection
• Experience with rhabdomyolysis, kidney damage, and psychological trauma cases

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience:

• Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
• Economist collaboration for lifetime care valuation
• Experience with catastrophic injuries requiring 24/7 care
• “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability”

Investigative Depth & Expert Network:

• Digital forensics for recovering deleted messages
• Medical experts for rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD testimony
• Greek life culture experts for institutional pattern evidence
• Economists for lifetime damage calculations

Our Texas Geographic Mastery

Local Jefferson County Knowledge:

• Understanding of Lamar University’s Greek system and administration
• Relationships with medical providers at Christus and Baptist hospitals
• Familiarity with Jefferson County courts and procedures
• Knowledge of Beaumont/Port Arthur legal community

Statewide Texas Coverage:

• Offices in Houston (primary), Austin, and Beaumont
• Serve families throughout Texas, including Nederland and surrounding areas
• Understand different university cultures and disciplinary systems
• Experience with various Texas county court systems

Federal Court Capability:

• Admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience with Title IX and civil rights claims
• Capability for multi-district or complex federal litigation

How We Build Hazing Cases Differently

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation:

• Digital forensics within 24-48 hours before deletion
• Witness interviews before coaching begins
• Medical documentation from day one
• Preservation letters to universities and organizations

2. Comprehensive Defendant Identification:

• Not just individuals—we identify ALL liable parties:
  • Individual members and officers
  • Local chapters and housing corporations
  • National headquarters
  • Universities and their governing boards
  • Property owners and third parties
  • Insurance carriers

3. Pattern Evidence Development:

• Subpoena national organization incident histories
• Obtain university prior violation records
• Document similar incidents at other chapters
• Establish foreseeability and negligent supervision

4. Damages Maximization Strategy:

• Life care planning for permanent injuries
• Economic analysis of lifetime impacts
• Psychological evaluation for PTSD/trauma
• Punitive damages evidence development

5. Settlement vs. Trial Positioning:

• Prepare every case as if it’s going to trial
• Use deposition and discovery to build leverage
• Never settle prematurely due to financial pressure
• Maintain ability to walk away from inadequate offers

Call to Action for Nederland Families

Your Next Steps: Confidential Consultation

If you or your child experienced hazing at Lamar University, Texas A&M, UH, or any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Nederland, Port Neches, Port Arthur, and across Jefferson County have the right to answers and 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
• Website: https://attorney911.com
• Email: ralph@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello), lupe@atty911.com (Mr. Lupe Peña)

Hablamos Español:

• Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish
• Servicios legales en español disponibles

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation

1. We’ll listen without judgment: Tell us what happened in complete confidence
2. Evidence review: We’ll examine any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
3. Legal options explained: Criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
4. Realistic expectations: Timelines, potential outcomes, challenges
5. Cost transparency: Contingency fee basis—we don’t get paid unless we win
6. No pressure: Take time to decide after our conversation
7. Everything confidential: Protected by attorney-client privilege

Why Time is Critical

• Evidence disappears: Group chats deleted, witnesses graduate, memories fade
• Statute of limitations: Generally 2 years in Texas, but exceptions exist
• University pressure: They want quick “internal resolutions” that protect them
• Medical documentation: Early evaluation establishes baseline for damages
• Witness availability: People move on and become harder to locate

Watch our video on Texas statutes of limitations to understand why acting quickly matters.

Contingency Fee Assurance

We work on a contingency fee basis for hazing cases:

• No upfront costs
• No fee unless we win
• Expenses advanced by the firm
• Transparent percentage agreed in writing

Watch our video explaining how contingency fees work to understand the financial arrangements.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

• Click2Houston investigation: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
• ABC13 detailed timeline: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
• Hoodline case summary: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

• Using your phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
• Texas statutes of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• Client mistakes that can ruin your case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
• How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website & Contact:

• Homepage: https://attorney911.com
• Contact page: https://attorney911.com/contact/
• Wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
• Criminal defense practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
• Ralph Manginello profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
• Lupe Peña profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

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