Your Oregon Attorney911 Guide to Hazing Laws, Cases, and Campus Accountability

The setting sun casts long shadows over the familiar Oregon landscape, perhaps across the historic buildings of the University of Oregon in Eugene, or the bustling campus of Oregon State in Corvallis. For many students from Oregon, this scene marks the start of a new chapter, filled with promise and excitement. But as late-night lights flicker in off-campus houses or dorm rooms, an undercurrent of something far more sinister can begin to emerge. It might be a new member, eager to fit in, being pressured to drink far beyond safe limits, or undergoing degrading physical “challenges” disguised as tradition. Perhaps others are filming on phones, chanting, and laughing, caught in the group mentality. Then, someone gets hurt—a fall, a collapse, uncontrolled vomiting. Suddenly, the laughter ceases, replaced by a chilling silence. No one wants to call 911; the fear of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble” grips them. The student, once full of hope, now feels trapped between loyalty to a group and their own safety, with injuries far beyond the physical.

This is not a scene from a distant land; it’s a scenario that could unfold at any Texas university, affecting families right here in Oregon whose children attend schools far from home. Whether your child is pursuing a degree at the University of Portland, studying the sciences in Corvallis, or experiencing the vibrant campus life in Eugene, the risks of hazing are a stark reality.

1.2 What This Guide Covers

This is a comprehensive guide to hazing and the law in Texas, written for families in Oregon and across the United States who need to understand the insidious nature of modern hazing. We aim to shed light on:

• What hazing looks like in 2025 and how it has evolved beyond traditional stereotypes.
• How Texas and federal law treat hazing, and the regulatory frameworks governing campus safety.
• Lessons from major national cases and their profound implications for Oregon families.
• What has been happening at major Texas universities like the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University, where many Oregon students matriculate.
• Legal options available to victims and families in Oregon and throughout Texas, offering a path to accountability and justice.

Whether your child is enrolled at a university within Oregon’s borders or attending one of the prominent institutions in Texas, the principles of hazing law remain critical. This article provides general information, not specific legal advice. However, Attorney911 is equipped to evaluate individual cases based on their unique facts. We serve families throughout Texas, and indeed anywhere a serious hazing incident occurs, understanding that the impact of such events reverberates deeply within communities like Oregon.

1.3 “If This Just Happened” Callout

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 911 for medical emergencies immediately.
  • Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911).
  • 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.” Prioritize their health and safety.
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
    • Screenshot group chats, texts, and direct messages (DMs) immediately.
    • Photograph injuries from multiple angles, noting the date and time.
    • Save any physical items like damaged clothing, receipts for forced purchases, or objects used in hazing activities.
  • Write down everything while memory is fresh: who was involved, what happened, when and where it took place, and any specific details.
  • Do NOT:
    • Confront the fraternity, sorority, or any individuals directly. This can lead to evidence destruction or coached testimonies.
    • Sign anything from the university or an insurance company without legal counsel.
    • Post details on public social media, as this can compromise a future legal case.
    • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence, as this can impede investigations.

• Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

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

2. HAZING IN 2025: WHAT IT REALLY LOOKS LIKE

For Oregon families, the landscape of collegiate life often evokes images of academic pursuit, vibrant community, and personal growth. However, beneath this surface, a disturbing and dangerously evolving practice—hazing—continues to threaten students. Far from the outdated clichés of harmless pranks, modern hazing is sophisticated, often insidious, and powered by technology, leaving lasting physical and psychological scars.

2.1 Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

Hazing, in its essence, is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act—on or off campus, by an individual alone or with others—directed against a student that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student. This act must occur for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students. For families in Oregon, it’s crucial to understand that even if a student verbally “agrees” to participate, true consent is often impossible within a coercive environment marked by peer pressure and power imbalances. The law recognizes this distinction, prioritizing safety over forced “agreement.”

2.2 Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing manifests in various forms, each designed to strip away individuality and foster unquestioning loyalty through discomfort, fear, or pain. The following categories represent the most prevalent types faced by students today, including those from Oregon embarking on their college journeys.

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is arguably the most dangerous form of hazing and a leading cause of hazing-related deaths. It involves forced or coerced drinking of alcohol, often in excessive quantities, over short periods. This can include:

  • Chugging challenges, “lineups,” or drinking games designed for rapid, unsafe consumption.
  • The pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances, heightening the risk of overdose or adverse reactions.
  • The notorious “Big/Little” events, where pledges are given large quantities of hard liquor, a practice that has proved fatal across the nation.

• Physical Hazing: These acts often involve strenuous, physically demanding, or abusive tasks that can lead to injury, exhaustion, or worse.

  • Paddling and beatings, which can cause severe bruising, internal injuries, or even rhabdomyolysis—a serious condition related to muscle breakdown.
  • Extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” that push individuals far beyond safe physical limits, often performed to the point of collapse.
  • Sleep deprivation, food/water deprivation, which severely impair judgment, health, and academic performance.
  • Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments, leading to hypothermia, heatstroke, or other life-threatening conditions.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This category attacks a student’s dignity and psychological well-being, often leaving deep emotional scars.

  • Forced nudity or partial nudity, which violates personal boundaries and can constitute sexual harassment.
  • Simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions (as seen in the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets case), or wearing degrading costumes, all designed to humiliate.
  • Acts with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones, including slurs or forced role-play, which inflict emotional trauma and foster discrimination.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but profoundly damaging, psychological hazing manipulates a student’s mind and emotions.

  • Verbal abuse, threats, or social isolation, creating an environment of fear and anxiety.
  • Manipulation or forced confessions, undermining trust and self-worth.
  • Public shaming, either in person or online, which can lead to severe emotional distress and reputational harm.

• Digital/Online Hazing: The rise of technology has provided new tools for hazing, allowing it to be constant and pervasive.

  • Group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation orchestrated via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Discord. Members from Oregon and other states are equally susceptible.
  • Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos, often used for blackmail or further degradation.
  • Constant, often late-night, communication demands that disrupt sleep and academic focus, controlled through digital means.

2.3 Where Hazing Actually Happens

It’s a common misconception that hazing is confined to certain types of organizations. For Oregon collegiate communities and beyond, it’s imperative to recognize that hazing can infiltrate almost any student group:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek-letter organizations. While the most publicized, they are by no means the only culprits.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Organizations with hierarchical structures and intense traditions can create environments ripe for hazing, such as the storied Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M.
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Groups like the Texas Cowboys or other campus spirit organizations, which thrive on custom and loyalty, can fall prey to hazing.
• Athletic Teams: From football to basketball, baseball, cheer, and even club sports, hazing can be used as a misguided form of “team building.” The Northwestern University hazing scandal brought this into sharp focus.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups can develop dangerous initiation rituals, as tragically exemplified by the Robert Champion case at Florida A&M.
• Some Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Any group with a “new member” or “pledge” period can potentially foster hazing behaviors, driven by social status, tradition, and a culture of secrecy that resists external scrutiny.

The perpetuation of hazing relies on an unspoken code, where “tradition” often masks abuse, and the desire to “belong” overrides personal safety. For Oregon families interested in joining Greek life, it’s essential to scrutinize the actual practices, not just the stated values.

3. LAW & LIABILITY FRAMEWORK (TEXAS + FEDERAL)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing is crucial for families in Oregon whose children attend universities, especially in Texas. Both state and federal laws provide mechanisms for accountability, distinguishing between criminal acts and civil remedies.

3.1 Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has clear, specific anti-hazing provisions primarily housed within the Texas Education Code. This legal framework defines hazing broadly to encompass a wide range of harmful behaviors, making it transparent and actionable for campus administrators and law enforcement.

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, committed by one person or with others, directed against a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or continued membership in an organization, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student. This includes, but isn’t limited to, physical abuse, forced consumption of alcohol or noxious substances, sleep deprivation, and extreme mental distress.

• Criminal Penalties: Hazing can lead to serious criminal charges.

  • Most hazing acts that do not result in serious injury are classified as a Class B misdemeanor. This can carry penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
  • The severity escalates for more severe outcomes. Hazing becomes a state jail felony if it causes serious bodily injury or death. Such felonies can result in incarceration in a state jail facility for 180 days to two years, plus fines up to $10,000.
  • Crucially, the law also criminalizes failing to report hazing. If a student, faculty member, or officer of an organization knew about hazing and did not report it, they could face misdemeanor charges.
  • Retaliation against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor offense, designed to protect whistleblowers.

• Consent is Not a Defense: A critical aspect of Texas law, enshrined in Texas Education Code § 37.155, states that it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the activity. This recognizes the coercive nature of hazing and ensures that victims cannot be blamed for participating under duress.

Summarizing, while the Texas Education Code provides the detailed legal language, its practical application is clear: hazing is dangerous, illegal, and perpetrators and organizations can be held accountable.

3.2 Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, families from Oregon need to understand that there are generally two parallel legal tracks: criminal and civil. These tracks have different goals, standards of proof, and entities that bring the charges.

• Criminal Cases:

  • These are brought by the state (prosecutors, district attorneys) on behalf of the public.
  • Their primary aim is to punish illegal behavior, with penalties including jail time, fines, or probation.
  • Hazing-related criminal charges often extend beyond the specific hazing statutes to include: furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, and in the most tragic cases, negligent homicide or manslaughter.
  • The state must prove guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt”—a very high standard.

• Civil Cases:

  • These are initiated by the victims or their surviving family members (plaintiffs).
  • The primary aim in civil court is to obtain monetary compensation (damages) for the injuries, losses, and suffering caused by the hazing, and to achieve accountability.
  • Civil suits often focus on legal theories such as:
    • Negligence and gross negligence (failure to act with reasonable care, or with extreme disregard for safety)
    • Wrongful death (when hazing results in a fatality)
    • Negligent hiring, retention, or supervision (on the part of organizations or the university)
    • Premises liability (if the hazing occurred on unsafe property)
    • Intentional infliction of emotional distress or assault/battery
  • The standard of proof in civil cases is “a preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not), which is lower than in criminal cases.

It’s important to note that a criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for a civil case. Even if no criminal charges are filed or convictions secured, a civil lawsuit can still proceed and be successful. Both tracks can run simultaneously, offering different avenues for justice and accountability.

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

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations play a crucial role in shaping how hazing is addressed and reported at colleges and universities. These federal mandates ensure a baseline of institutional responsibility and transparency that impacts students from Oregon and nationwide.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA): Enacted as part of the Omnibus Appropriations Act of 2023, this landmark federal law imposes significant new requirements on institutions of higher education that receive federal financial assistance. By around 2026, these institutions will need to:

  • Report hazing incidents more transparently, including publicly listing violations and disciplinary actions.
  • Strengthen hazing education and prevention programs on campus.
  • Maintain and make public hazing data, similar to existing Clery Act crime statistics.
  • The goal is to provide greater clarity and accountability, allowing families to make informed decisions about campus safety.

• Title IX: This federal law prohibits discrimination based on sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity) in education programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance. While not directly an anti-hazing law, Title IX can be triggered when hazing involves:

  • Sexual harassment or sexual assault.
  • Gender-based hostility or discrimination.
  • Coercion or humiliation based on sex.
  • In such cases, universities have an obligation to investigate, address, and prevent such discrimination, regardless of whether it also constitutes hazing.

• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. Hazing incidents often overlap with categories reportable under Clery, such as:

  • Assaults and aggravated assaults.
  • Alcohol or drug-related arrests and disciplinary referrals.
  • Sexual offenses.
  • While hazing itself is not a specific Clery category, the underlying criminal behaviors associated with it contribute to a university’s Clery reportable statistics, providing a broader picture of campus safety.

These federal laws enhance existing state laws by mandating transparency, prevention efforts, and specific responses, creating a multi-layered legal framework designed to protect students from hazing and related harms.

3.4 Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

One of the most complex aspects of hazing litigation is identifying all potentially liable parties. For Oregon families seeking justice, understanding the breadth of potential defendants is key to achieving comprehensive accountability and compensation.

• Individual Students: The students who actively participated in, planned, encouraged, or failed to intervene in a hazing incident can face direct liability. This includes those who supplied alcohol, physically assaulted the victim, or coerced participation. Their personal assets may be at stake, although often their involvement is pursued to ensure all perpetrators are held responsible.

• Local Chapter / Organization: The collegiate organization itself (whether a fraternity, sorority, club, or team)—if it is recognized as a legal entity—can be sued. This is particularly true if the hazing was organizational in nature, sanctioned by leaders (e.g., “pledge educators”), or if the organization’s culture promoted such activities.

• National Fraternity / Sorority: A crucial target in many hazing lawsuits, national organizations often exert significant control over their local chapters through policies, rules, and governance structures. They can be held liable for:

  • Negligent supervision or failure to adequately train and supervise their local chapters.
  • Failure to enforce anti-hazing policies, especially if there’s a history of similar incidents at other chapters (pattern evidence).
  • Apparent authority, where chapters act as agents of the national organization.

• University or Governing Board: Colleges and universities themselves can be held accountable, particularly under theories of:

  • Negligence: If they failed to respond to prior hazing incidents, enforce their own policies, or provide adequate supervision.
  • Gross Negligence or Deliberate Indifference: Especially in cases involving a known pattern of hazing that the university ignored or deliberately failed to address.
  • Title IX Violations: If the hazing involved sex-based discrimination and the university’s response was inadequate.
  • Breach of Contract: If the university failed to provide the safe educational environment it promised.
  • Public universities (like Oregon State or the University of Oregon) may raise defenses of sovereign immunity, but exceptions often exist for gross negligence or when certain federal laws are violated.

• Third Parties: Depending on the specific circumstances, others can also be held responsible:

  • Landlords or property owners: If the hazing occurred on their property and they knew or should have known about the dangerous activities (premises liability).
  • Alcohol vendors or hosts: Under “dram shop laws” (in states where applicable), if they illegally served alcohol to minors that contributed to injury. In Texas, there are specific provisions for host liability.
  • Security companies or event organizers: If they were hired to manage an event where hazing took place and failed in their duty of care.

Identifying all potentially liable parties is critical because it ensures that all individuals and entities responsible for the harm are held accountable, and it maximizes the potential for full compensation for victims from Oregon and their families. This complex web of liability underscores the importance of experienced legal counsel in hazing cases.

4. NATIONAL HAZING CASE PATTERNS (ANCHOR STORIES)

National hazing incidents, though sometimes far from Oregon’s serene campuses, set crucial legal and cultural precedents that profoundly impact all students, including those attending Texas universities. These tragic anchor stories reveal recurring patterns of abuse, institutional failures, and the critical importance of legal intervention to force accountability and drive change.

4.1 Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The forced or coerced consumption of alcohol remains the deadliest form of hazing, a repeating tragedy across college campuses. Parents across Oregon should be acutely aware of how these incidents unfold and the legal responses they trigger.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017):
  Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died after a “bid acceptance” event involving extreme alcohol consumption. Horrifyingly, surveillance cameras in the fraternity house captured Piazza falling multiple times, suffering severe head injuries. The tragedy was compounded by a shocking delay in calling 911—nearly 12 hours passed before medical help was summoned. This case led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, extensive civil litigation, and the enactment of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, a benchmark for anti-hazing legislation. The takeaway for Oregon families: extreme intoxication, coupled with a deliberate delay in seeking medical aid and a pervasive culture of silence, can lead to devastating legal consequences for individuals and institutions.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017):
  Andrew Coffey, a pledge at Florida State, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and encouraged to consume them rapidly. This tragic death prompted criminal hazing charges against multiple fraternity members, and Florida State University subsequently suspended all Greek life activities, overhauling its policies in response. This case, and others like it, underscore that formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a dangerously common script for disaster, signaling a clear pattern of organizational negligence.

• Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):
  Maxwell Gruver, an 18-year-old pledge, died with a blood-alcohol content of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game at the Phi Delta Theta house. Pledges were forced to drink heavily when they answered questions incorrectly. This horrifying death led to the enactment of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, establishing felony charges for hazing. The significance: legislative change often follows public outrage and incontrovertible proof of hazing, demonstrating society’s evolving intolerance for such practices.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021):
  Stone Foltz, an 20-year-old pledge, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey in 20 minutes during a “Big/Little” night. This incident resulted in multiple criminal convictions against fraternity members for hazing-related charges. Furthermore, Bowling Green State University agreed to a nearly $3 million settlement with the Foltz family (with other settlements reaching $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national headquarters), highlighting the severe financial and reputational consequences for institutions that fail to prevent hazing. This case led to Ohio’s Collin’s Law, a powerful anti-hazing statute making hazing a felony when alcohol or drugs cause physical harm.

4.2 Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and psychologically abusive rituals also recur across campuses, posing severe risks and contributing to a pattern of harm.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013):
  Chun “Michael” Deng, a pledge for Pi Delta Psi, died from a traumatic brain injury during a “glass ceiling” ritual at an off-campus fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. Blindfolded and weighted down with a heavy backpack, he was repeatedly tackled by fraternity members. After his collapse, members shockingly delayed calling 911 for over an hour. This case resulted in criminal convictions for multiple members and, significantly, the national fraternity itself was convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. This tragedy dramatically illustrates that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous, if not more so, than on-campus incidents, and that national organizations can face criminal liability.

4.3 Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not exclusive to Greek life; it is deeply embedded in some athletic programs, where a culture of “toughness” or initiation can mask severe abuse under the guise of team building.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025):
  Former football players came forward with allegations of widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the Northwestern University football program, spanning multiple years. This scandal rocked the prestigious university and led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern and its coaching staff. Head coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired and subsequently filed a wrongful-termination lawsuit which was confidentially settled in August 2025. This series of events powerfully demonstrates that hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs, raising critical questions about institutional oversight and accountability in high-profile sports. The implications of such incidents resonate with Oregon families, who likely send their children to participate in various athletic programs across the country.

4.4 What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national anchor cases reveal common, perilous threads: the omnipresence of forced drinking, psychological and physical humiliation, the tragic delay or denial of medical care, and concerted efforts to cover up incidents. For Oregon families with children attending universities in Texas, these lessons are not abstract; they are blueprints for understanding risk and seeking justice.

When individuals or institutions in Texas repeat these patterns, they are ignoring decades of warnings and legal precedents. The multi-million-dollar settlements and legislative reforms that followed these tragedies highlight that accountability often comes only after severe harm and determined litigation. Families confronting hazing at universities like the University of Oregon or Oregon State, or at large Texas institutions such as the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, are operating within a legal landscape shaped by these powerful national lessons. They are not alone, and experienced legal counsel can help them navigate the complex path toward justice.

5. TEXAS FOCUS: UH, TEXAS A&M, UT, SMU, BAYLOR

For Oregon families considering Texas universities, understanding the specific hazing landscape at these prominent institutions is crucial. While hazing is a nationwide problem, the culture, policies, and prior incidents at each school paint a unique picture of risk and response, directly relevant to students from Oregon who may attend.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a bustling urban campus in the heart of one of the nation’s largest cities, offers a diverse academic and social environment. Many Oregon families choose UH for specific programs or its vibrant city life. However, like many large institutions, it faces the challenges of managing a dynamic Greek life and numerous student organizations, which can, unfortunately, become venues for hazing.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UH is a Tier One research university with a large and diverse student body, spanning both commuter and residential students. Its Greek life is active, encompassing various Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic, and National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternities and sororities. Beyond Greek life, UH boasts a wide array of student organizations, including cultural associations, academic clubs, and sports teams, all contributing to a rich campus tapestry that can attract students from Oregon.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a clear and explicit anti-hazing policy, which unequivocally prohibits all forms of hazing, whether they occur on-campus or off-campus. This policy covers acts such as:

• Forced consumption of alcohol, food, drugs, or any noxious substance.
• Sleep deprivation or confinement.
• Physical mistreatment, including paddling or excessive exercise.
• Any activity that causes mental distress, humiliation, or exploitation.

UH emphasizes the importance of reporting hazing promptly and provides multiple channels for students and families to do so, including the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD). The university also posts a general hazing statement and some limited disciplinary information on its website.

5.1.3 Example Incident & Response

One significant incident that revealed the extent of hazing at UH occurred in 2016 involving the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Pledges were allegedly subjected to a multi-day hazing event that involved deprivation of sufficient food, water, and sleep. Tragically, one student suffered a lacerated spleen, reportedly after being slammed onto a table or similar surface. This severe injury brought the chapter under intense scrutiny. As a result, the Pi Kappa Alpha chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and was ultimately suspended by the university. While this incident garnered significant attention, UH has also documented various other disciplinary actions against fraternities for behaviors “likely to produce mental or physical discomfort,” including alcohol misuse and other policy violations, leading to suspensions and probationary periods. This highlights both UH’s willingness to sanction chapters and the persistent challenges of eradicating hazing.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Oregon families, understanding the procedural aspects of a hazing case at UH is essential. Due to UH’s location in Houston, the largest city in Texas, the jurisdiction can involve significant legal bodies. Local investigations may involve the UHPD and/or the Houston Police Department, depending on where the incident occurred and its severity. Civil lawsuits related to hazing at UH would typically be filed in courts within Harris County, Texas, which has jurisdiction over Houston. Potential defendants in such a case could include:

• The individual students directly involved in the hazing.
• The local chapter of the fraternity or organization.
• The national fraternity or sorority headquarters.
• Potentially the University of Houston itself, through its Board of Regents, and property owners if the hazing occurred off-campus.

An experienced hazing attorney would meticulously identify all liable parties and determine the most effective legal strategies.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For University of Houston students—whether they hail from Oregon or any other state—and their parents, proactive measures are paramount:

• Report Hazing Promptly: Utilize UH’s reporting channels, such as the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, or UHPD. Anonymous online reporting forms are also often available.
• Document Everything: Maintain meticulous records of any communications from the university or individuals involved. This includes physical injuries, text messages, social media posts, and any other evidence.
• Understand Your Rights: Even if the university initiates an internal investigation, it is crucial to understand that this process is separate from criminal or civil legal action.
• Seek Experienced Legal Counsel: If hazing has occurred, consulting a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases is vital. Such an attorney can help uncover prior disciplinary actions against organizations at UH and navigate the local legal landscape, ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the process.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, located in College Station, epitomizes a unique blend of established tradition and rigorous academics. Its deeply ingrained culture, particularly surrounding the Corps of Cadets and a passionate Greek life, means that many students, including those from Oregon, are drawn to an experience unlike any other. However, with strong traditions sometimes comes an increased risk of hazing, which can surface in both military and social organizations.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M is renowned for its strong Aggie traditions, vast alumni network, and, most notably, its highly structured Corps of Cadets—a powerful influence on campus culture. Alongside this, a robust Greek life thrives, with a significant number of fraternities and sororities. The emphasis on tradition and brotherhood/sisterhood, while forming strong bonds, also creates an environment where hazing can be especially prevalent under the guise of “earning your spot” or upholding custom. Students from Oregon are often attracted to A&M for its unique blend of academic excellence and profound sense of community, making it imperative for them to understand its specific hazing risks.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M University maintains a strict anti-hazing policy applicable to all student organizations, including Greek life and the Corps of Cadets. Their policy broadly defines hazing and prohibits any act that causes or is likely to cause physical or mental harm. Reporting channels are provided through the Office of Student Conduct, Corps leadership (for cadets), and the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMUPD). The university also lists some disciplinary actions on its anti-hazing website.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Texas A&M has faced multiple high-profile hazing allegations, notably involving both Greek life and the Corps of Cadets:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit (around 2021): This case drew national attention when two pledges alleged severe hazing that included being covered in various substances, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit. This resulted in severe chemical burns that required skin graft surgeries for the pledges. The fraternity chapter was suspended by the university for two years, and the pledges subsequently filed a lawsuit against the organization.
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A significant case involved a cadet alleging degrading and physically abusive hazing. This included 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 in damages. While Texas A&M stated it addressed the matter through its internal processes, this case brought to light the darker side of some military-style initiation rituals.
• Aggie Bonfire Collapse (1999): While not traditional hazing in the same vein, this tragic event, which killed 12 and injured 27, raised profound questions about the oversight of student-led high-risk activities and the potential for harmful traditions within a strong campus culture. Multi-million dollar settlements followed, leading to the official end of the tradition.

These incidents highlight that hazing at Texas A&M is robustly challenged but also deeply entrenched, sometimes masked by the “Aggie Spirit.”

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Oregon families, navigating a hazing case at Texas A&M involves College Station and Brazos County jurisdiction. Investigations would involve TAMUPD and potentially local law enforcement. Civil lawsuits would likely proceed in Brazos County courts. Cases can be particularly complex due to:

• The extensive network of national fraternity/sorority organizations.
• The unique power structure and traditions within the Corps of Cadets.
• The active role alumni associations often play.

Claims could target individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and potentially the university itself, requiring a sophisticated legal approach.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Students from Oregon attending Texas A&M and their parents must be vigilant:

• Prioritize Safety First: If hazing is suspected, especially if it involves physical abuse or forced consumption, document everything and seek immediate medical or legal help.
• Question “Tradition”: Not all traditions are benign. Students should critically evaluate whether a “tradition” compromises their physical or mental health.
• Report Through Official Channels: Utilize the Office of Student Conduct or TAMUPD for formal complaints.
• Consult Legal Counsel Early: An attorney with experience in Texas hazing cases, particularly those involving powerful institutional defendants like Texas A&M, can help navigate both university investigations and potential civil claims. This is especially important given the university’s large endowment and extensive legal team.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is a flagship institution in Texas, drawing students from Oregon and across the globe to its vibrant campus in the state capital. Known for its academic prowess, extensive Greek life, and spirited traditions, UT Austin also confronts the persistent challenge of hazing within its numerous student organizations.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT Austin is one of the largest public universities in the United States, celebrated for its academic excellence, diverse student body, and energetic campus life. Its Greek community is robust and highly visible, alongside a myriad of other student groups, from spirit associations like the Texas Cowboys to various academic and social clubs. The emphasis on pride in “Longhorn Nation” and strong group identity, while fostering deep connections, can also create environments vulnerable to hazing practices. The vibrant and sometimes permissive atmosphere of downtown Austin’s entertainment district can exacerbate these risks, making the environment particularly relevant for students from Oregon.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Texas at Austin maintains a published anti-hazing policy that strictly prohibits any activity that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student. This policy, which applies to all registered student organizations, including Greek-letter groups and sports clubs, covers both on-campus and off-campus misconduct. UT provides several avenues for reporting hazing, including the Dean of Students office, the Title IX Coordinator (if applicable), and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).

A key feature of UT’s commitment to transparency is its publicly accessible Hazing Violations page. This online resource lists organizations, the nature of the violation, the dates of the incident, and the sanctions imposed, establishing a clear record of accountability that can inform Oregon families.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

UT Austin’s public hazing violations page provides a candid look at recurring issues:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): The chapter was investigated for hazing activities involving new members who were allegedly directed to rapidly consume excessive amounts of milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. Following an investigation, the chapter was found responsible for hazing and placed on probation, with requirements to implement new hazing-prevention education programs.
• Texas Cowboys (2018): This high-profile incident involved allegations of severe hazing and animal abuse, including forcing members to consume excessive alcohol and engage in degrading acts. The university’s investigation led to the suspension of the historic spirit organization, criminal charges for some individuals, and a reassessment of its oversight of campus traditions. This incident was preceded by a 1995 case involving the Texas Cowboys, where a pledge drowned in the Colorado River after participating in drinking games, highlighting a disturbing pattern over decades.
• Numerous other groups, including fraternities and other spirit organizations, have been sanctioned for various forms of hazing, including forced alcohol consumption, sleep deprivation, and inappropriate physical activities.

These documented incidents, ranging from alcohol-related abuses to physical and psychological torment, illustrate both the university’s efforts to penalize hazing and the persistent challenges of eradicating it from campus culture. The publicly available records are invaluable for Oregon families researching prospective schools.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Oregon families, a hazing case at UT Austin involves the legal jurisdictions of Austin and Travis County. Law enforcement investigations could involve the UTPD and/or the Austin Police Department, depending on the alleged criminal conduct and its location. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in Travis County courts.

The public nature of UT’s hazing violations log can be a significant asset in civil litigation. This readily available “pattern evidence” can strongly support claims of:

• Foreseeability: Arguing that the university or national organization knew or should have known about a propensity for hazing.
• Negligent supervision: Demonstrating a failure to adequately address recurring issues.
• Gross negligence: Pointing to deliberate indifference to known dangers.

Potential defendants would include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and given its extensive resources and prior knowledge, the University of Texas System Board of Regents.

5.3.5 What UT Students & Parents Should Do

For University of Texas at Austin students—especially those from Oregon seeking safety and accountability—and their parents:

• Review UT’s Hazing Violations Page: Before joining any organization, consult this public record to identify groups with past violations.
• Document Vigilantly: If hazing is suspected or occurs, immediately collect evidence. Screenshots of texts, social media posts, and photos of injuries are critical.
• Utilize Reporting Options: Report incidents through the Dean of Students, UTPD, or the anonymous “Stop Hazing” line.
• Seek Immediate Legal Counsel: Contacting an experienced Texas hazing attorney promptly is essential. Such counsel can help preserve vital evidence (which often disappears quickly), navigate university investigations, and, if appropriate, build a strong civil case for justice and compensation. This is especially true given the high legal stakes involved in confronting a large public university’s legal team.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, nestled in Dallas, is a private institution known for its rigorous academics, beautiful campus, and strong, often competitive, Greek life. Many Oregon families are drawn to SMU for its smaller class sizes, strong business programs, and vibrant urban setting. However, the prestige and social atmosphere can sometimes mask hazing cultures that require careful attention from prospective students and their families.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is a private, well-endowed university with a significant percentage of its undergraduate population involved in Greek life. Its campus culture often emphasizes tradition and social engagement, attracting students seeking a close-knit community experience. The presence of numerous fraternities and sororities, alongside athletic teams and other student organizations, contributes to a bustling social scene. For students coming from Oregon, SMU provides a different pace, but the underlying risks of hazing are universal, particularly within groups where social status and initiation rituals are highly valued.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains explicit anti-hazing policies that apply to all student organizations, including registered and unrecognized groups. Their policy defines hazing broadly to include any activity that subjects a student to mental or physical discomfort, harassment, ridicule, or injury, or which is demeaning, intimidating, or dangerous. SMU provides various reporting mechanisms, including the Office of the Dean of Students, the SMU Police Department, and anonymous online reporting forms (such as their “Real Response” system), aimed at encouraging students to come forward without fear of retribution.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Like other major universities, SMU has had its share of hazing incidents, though as a private institution, its public disclosure of specific details can be less comprehensive than public universities like UT Austin.

• Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): This incident led to significant disciplinary action against the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity. New members were reportedly subjected to ritualistic paddling, forced alcoholic consumption, and severe sleep deprivation. The chapter was placed on a lengthy suspension, which included restrictions on recruiting and social activities, extending for several years. This response underscored SMU’s commitment to addressing overt hazing behaviors when discovered.
• SMU has also reported other cases involving alcohol misuse, physically demanding initiation rituals, and psychological harassment in various fraternities and other student groups, leading to probation or suspension. These repeated incidents highlight continuous challengesdespite official policies.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Oregon families, a hazing case at SMU would fall under the jurisdiction of Dallas and Dallas County courts. Investigations would typically involve the SMU Police Department and potentially the Dallas Police Department for criminal matters. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in Dallas County. As a private university, SMU generally does not have the same sovereign immunity protections as public institutions, which can sometimes simplify the litigation process for plaintiffs.

Potential defendants in an SMU hazing case could include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and the university itself. Litigating against a private university such as SMU may involve different procedural rules and discovery processes compared to public institutions, making experienced legal counsel invaluable.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

For students from Oregon attending SMU and their parents, vigilance and proactive steps are crucial:

• Utilize SMU’s Reporting Systems: Use the Office of the Dean of Students or anonymous reporting tools like “Real Response” if hazing is suspected or experienced.
• Document Any Concerns: Keep detailed, contemporaneous records of incidents, conversations, and observations. Evidence can be deleted quickly, especially digital evidence.
• Understand the “Pledge” Process: Inquire thoroughly about the new member education process before joining any organization, including the time commitments, social expectations, and any “traditions.”
• Seek Independent Legal Advice: Given SMU’s status as a private, well-resourced institution, parents should consult with a Texas hazing attorney if a serious incident occurs. An attorney can help navigate the university’s internal processes and explore legal options against the university and other responsible parties.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, located in Waco, Texas, is a prominent private Christian university known for its robust faith-based community, strong academic programs, and passionate athletic culture. Many Oregon families are drawn to Baylor for its unique blend of values-based education and competitive university experience. However, its strong emphasis on tradition and group cohesion, much like other universities, can unfortunately create environments where hazing sometimes takes root, often complicating oversight with its private religious status.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University cultivates a distinct culture centered on its Baptist heritage and values, fostering a close-knit community among its students. Athletics, particularly football, hold a significant place in campus life, and numerous student organizations, including Greek fraternities and sororities, thrive alongside faith-based groups. This strong collective identity, while a source of pride for its students, including those from Oregon, demands careful attention to ensure that “tradition” does not devolve into harmful hazing practices.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University maintains an unequivocal anti-hazing policy that strictly prohibits any physical or mental requirement, request, or obligation made of a person in an initiation or affiliation ceremony that is harmful, abusive, or humiliating. This policy extends to all officially recognized and unregistered student groups, applying both on and off campus. Baylor provides multiple reporting mechanisms, including the Office of Student Conduct, the Baylor Police Department, and an anonymous tip line, encouraging a safe environment free from such practices.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Baylor’s history includes documented instances of hazing, which have been particularly scrutinized given the university’s past challenges with oversight in other areas, such as its football program’s sexual assault scandal. These incidents highlight the ongoing vigilance required.

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): This incident garnered significant attention when the university’s baseball program faced investigations into hazing allegations. Following internal reviews, 14 baseball players were suspended for their involvement in hazing activities. These suspensions were staggered over the early season to maintain team functionality while upholding accountability. The incident forced Baylor to reiterate its “zero tolerance” stance against hazing, emphasizing that even highly visible athletic programs are not exempt from scrutiny.
• Prior incidents at Baylor have involved various student groups, including fraternities and sororities, receiving sanctions ranging from probation to loss of recognition for hazing behaviors, alcohol misuse, and other violations of student conduct.

These examples underscore that while Baylor upholds strong values and a commitment to safety, the challenges of preventing hazing persist, demanding continuous oversight and enforcement beyond official statements.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

For Oregon families, a hazing case at Baylor University would typically fall under the jurisdiction of Waco and McLennan County. Criminal investigations would involve the Baylor Police Department and/or the Waco Police Department. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in McLennan County courts. As a private religious university, Baylor does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it more directly amenable to civil litigation than public institutions.

Litigation against Baylor University and its affiliated organizations would involve meticulous investigation into university policies, internal communications, and past enforcement efforts. The university’s prior experiences with institutional oversight issues could potentially frame arguments regarding negligence or deliberate indifference in hazing cases. Potential defendants could include individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and Baylor University itself.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

For students from Oregon attending Baylor University and their parents, understanding and actively engaging with the university’s policies and resources are key:

• Familiarize Yourself with Baylor’s Policies: Understand the explicit anti-hazing policy and the consequences for violations.
• Utilize Reporting Channels: Use the Office of Student Conduct or the anonymous tip line for any concerns or direct experiences with hazing.
• Emphasize Health and Safety: Students should never compromise their physical or mental well-being for group affiliation. Open communication with parents and trusted advisors is crucial.
• Consider Legal Counsel: If hazing leads to significant harm, an experienced Texas hazing attorney can provide invaluable guidance. An attorney can help families navigate Baylor’s internal processes, which may seek to manage the institution’s image, and determine the viability of civil action to secure justice and compensation. This is especially important given the university’s resources and the potential complexities of private university litigation.

6. FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES: CAMPUS-SPECIFIC + NATIONAL HISTORIES

For Oregon families, understanding hazing requires looking beyond individual campus incidents to the broader context of national fraternity and sorority organizations. Many local chapters at Texas universities—including UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor—are branches of these national entities. What happens at one chapter can, and often does, echo across the entire network, creating a pattern of conduct that is critical in legal strategies.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

When hazing occurs, it’s rarely an isolated “rogue incident.” Instead, it often follows a familiar script, one that has played out repeatedly across the country within specific national organizations.

• Deep Roots: Many fraternities and sororities active at Texas campuses are part of larger national organizations like Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike), Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE), Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi, and Kappa Alpha Order.
• Policy and Practice: National headquarters often maintain extensive anti-hazing manuals and implement risk management policies. These exist precisely because these organizations have a documented history of hazing-related deaths, severe injuries, and lawsuits at various chapters nationwide. They are acutely aware of the patterns: the forced drinking nights, the ritualistic paddlings, the humiliating “traditions.”
• Legal Foreseeability: When a local chapter in Texas allegedly repeats the same type of hazing that led to a death or suspension at another chapter in Florida, Ohio, or Pennsylvania, it provides crucial evidence of foreseeability. This pattern demonstrates that the national organization knew, or should have known, about the inherent risks associated with certain practices within its system. Such evidence can be powerful in civil litigation, supporting claims of negligence, gross negligence, and even arguments for punitive damages against national entities. It shows a failure to adequately address known dangers.

6.2 Organization Mapping

While we cannot list every single chapter that might be present at these Texas universities, it’s vital to highlight a selection of major organizations that have faced significant national scrutiny for hazing. These are present on many large campuses, including those where Oregon families send their children.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike): This fraternity has been involved in multiple tragic incidents. For instance, the infamous hazing death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University in 2021 (alcohol poisoning from forced drinking) led to significant criminal convictions and a multi-million-dollar settlement involving the national organization. Such a pattern of severe alcohol hazing makes similar incidents at any chapter, including those in Texas, highly foreseeable to the national body.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): Often labeled “America’s deadliest fraternity” due to a high number of hazing-related deaths, SAE has a particularly concerning history. Incidents include a traumatic brain injury lawsuit at the University of Alabama and the tragic death of Noah Domingo at UC Irvine in 2019 due to alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night.” Notably, current lawsuits continue to target SAE chapters in Texas, including at Texas A&M (allegations of chemical burns) and the University of Texas at Austin (allegations of assault). This long history underscores a pattern of risk that no responsible national organization can claim ignorance of.
• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): This fraternity was at the center of the tragic death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University in 2017, where he died from severe alcohol poisoning during a forced drinking “Bible study” game. This incident specifically led to Louisiana’s felony hazing statute, the Max Gruver Act. The national organization’s awareness of these specific hazing methods at one chapter makes it challenging to claim lack of foresight for similar incidents elsewhere.
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): This fraternity also has a documented history of fatal hazing. The death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University in 2017 occurred during a “Big Brother Night” involving excessive alcohol consumption. This incident triggered a statewide anti-hazing movement in Florida. The University of Houston’s own history includes hazing allegations against a Pi Kappa Phi chapter in 2016, where a pledge suffered a lacerated spleen after physical hazing. This pattern shows national-level risks manifesting locally.
• Kappa Alpha Order: This fraternity has faced numerous suspensions and investigations for hazing across the country, including documented incidents involving alcohol and physical abuse. Its chapter at SMU faced significant discipline in 2017 for alleged paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation, demonstrating that a national pattern has specific local manifestations.

These examples illustrate recurring hazing patterns, often involving alcohol, physical abuse, or psychological torment, suggesting that hazing rituals are frequently replicated across chapters and generations, indicating a clear, foreseeable risk to the national organizations.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

For Oregon families, understanding these national histories and patterns is not merely academic—it is a cornerstone of effective legal strategy in hazing cases:

• Establishing Foreseeability: The extensive record of hazing incidents within specific national fraternities, often involving similar methods and tragic outcomes across different campuses, is crucial for establishing foreseeability. This demonstrates that the national organization had repeated prior notice of dangerous conduct within its system.
• Challenging “Rogue Chapter” Defenses: National organizations often attempt to deflect blame by claiming a local incident was the action of “rogue individuals” or a “rogue chapter” acting against explicit policy. However, a pattern of similar incidents across multiple chapters or a history of weak enforcement by the national body can undermine this defense.
• Supporting Gross Negligence Claims: A national organization’s repeated failure to effectively prevent or punish hazing, despite knowing its prevalence and destructive potential, can support claims of gross negligence—a higher standard of negligence that can lead to increased damages, including punitive damages.
• Influencing Settlement Leverage: Knowledge of a national organization’s hazing history puts victims and their attorneys in a stronger negotiating position. It signals that a jury is likely to view the national as responsible, increasing pressure for a fair settlement.
• Navigating Insurance Coverage: Insurance providers for national organizations may attempt to deny coverage based on policy exclusions for “intentional acts.” However, legal arguments for negligent supervision or failure to enforce policies can often circumvent these exclusions, ensuring coverage for damage claims.

By meticulously researching the national hazing histories of specific organizations, attorneys can build compelling cases that connect local chapter misconduct directly to the broader responsibilities and historical knowledge of national headquarters, thereby strengthening claims for justice for families in Oregon and beyond.

7. BUILDING A CASE: EVIDENCE, DAMAGES, STRATEGY

Building a successful hazing case demands meticulous evidence collection, a deep understanding of applicable damages, and a clear legal strategy. For Oregon families seeking justice after a hazing incident, this process is intricate but essential to hold powerful institutions accountable.

7.1 Evidence

In today’s digital age, evidence in hazing cases is increasingly complex and often ephemeral, requiring swift and strategic preservation.

• Digital Communications: These are often the lifeblood of a hazing investigation, providing real-time insight into the planning, execution, and cover-up of incidents. This includes:

  • Group Messaging Apps: Popular platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, Discord, and various fraternity/sorority-specific apps are critical. Screenshots of full conversations with timestamps and participants are essential. Our firm’s video “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides invaluable guidance on how to properly capture and preserve this digital gold.
  • Direct Messages (DMs) & Texts: Private conversations on iMessage, SMS, Instagram, or Snapchat can reveal direct coercion, threats, or instructions.
  • Crucially, even if messages are deleted, digital forensics experts can often recover them. But initial screenshots are always the best form of evidence.

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence provides irrefutable proof.

  • This includes content filmed by members during hazing events, often captured for “entertainment” or as proof of “completion.”
  • Footage shared in private group chats or, less commonly, posted on social media.
  • Security camera footage (e.g., Ring doorbell cameras) from houses or venues where hazing occurred can also be critical.

• Internal Organization Documents: These documents can reveal the official (and unofficial) structures of hazing.

  • Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, or lists of “traditions” or “challenges” for new members.
  • Emails or text messages from chapter officers detailing upcoming “new member education” or “brotherhood events” which are actually hazing.
  • National organization policies and risk management training materials, which can be critical for showing their knowledge of hazing risks.

• University Records: These records are vital for establishing a pattern of knowing a hazing culture exists and failing to address it.

  • Prior conduct files, records of probation, or suspensions against the same organization.
  • Incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices regarding the organization or its members.
  • Clery Act reports and other institutional disclosures that may indicate a pattern of alcohol offenses, assaults, or other violations.
  • Internal communications among administrators concerning hazing, often obtained through discovery requests.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the extent of the harm suffered.

  • Emergency room and hospitalization records detailing injuries, treatments, and toxicology reports (e.g., blood alcohol content, drug screens).
  • Physician’s notes, surgery reports, and rehabilitation plans.
  • Psychological evaluations that diagnose PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other mental health impacts directly resulting from the hazing. These records help quantify the non-physical suffering.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are crucial for corroborating other evidence and painting a full picture of the events.

  • Testimony from other pledges or new members who experienced the same hazing.
  • Accounts from active members, former members who left the organization, or even sympathetic alumni.
  • Observations from roommates, RAs, coaches, or bystanders who witnessed related behavior or the victim’s decline.

7.2 Damages

Hazing inflicts deep wounds—physical, emotional, and financial. Legal action seeks to encompass all forms of loss, ensuring comprehensive compensation for victims and their families.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs associated with physical and psychological recovery.

  • Past Medical Expenses: Emergency room visits, ambulance transport, hospitalization, diagnostic tests, medications.
  • Future Medical Expenses: Ongoing physical therapy, surgical revisions, specialized treatments for internal injuries, and crucially, long-term psychological counseling for trauma (PTSD, depression). For severe injuries like traumatic brain injury or organ damage, this can include a life care plan for lifelong medical and personal care needs.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can derail a student’s academic and career trajectory.

  • Lost Earnings: If a student has to withdraw from school or is unable to work due to injuries.
  • Educational Impact: Reimbursement for missed tuition and fees, loss of academic or athletic scholarships, delayed graduation, and the resulting delay in entering the workforce.
  • Diminished Future Earning Capacity: If injuries (especially psychological trauma or physical disability) result in a permanent reduction in the victim’s ability to earn a living, often assessed by expert economists.

• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for intangible, yet profoundly impactful, forms of suffering.

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: From severe injuries like chemical burns, broken bones, internal organ damage, or the lingering pain from physical abuse.
  • Emotional Distress, Trauma, and Humiliation: This includes diagnoses such as PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, a deep sense of betrayal, and the profound humiliation suffered during degrading rituals.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: The inability to participate in hobbies, sports, social activities, or simply enjoy the collegiate experience due to physical limitations or emotional trauma.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the most tragic cases, when hazing results in death, the surviving family members can pursue a wrongful death claim. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. These damages typically include:

  • Funeral and Burial Costs.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Society: For parents, siblings, or spouses.
  • Loss of Financial Support: If the deceased would have contributed to the family’s income in the future.
  • Grief and Mental Anguish: The profound emotional suffering endured by surviving family members, which can also necessitate long-term psychological support.

• Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme recklessness, malice, or deliberate indifference, courts may award punitive damages. These are not meant to compensate the victim but to punish particularly egregious conduct and deter similar actions in the future.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Identifying all responsible parties and understanding their insurance coverage is a sophisticated aspect of hazing litigation.

• Complex Web of Coverage: National fraternities, local chapters, and universities typically carry multiple layers of insurance (general liability, excess liability, directors and officers liability). Insurers for these powerful entities are often highly experienced in defending against such claims.
• Insurance Disputes: A common defense strategy from insurers is to argue that hazing, or “intentional acts” like assault, are excluded from coverage under their policies. They may also attempt to deny coverage based on a lack of notice or alleged policy violations by the local chapter.
• Overcoming Exclusions: Experienced hazing attorneys, like Lupe Peña (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), whose background as a former insurance defense attorney means she knows their playbook, understand how to navigate these tactics. They often argue that while the hazing itself may have been an intentional act, the national organization’s or university’s failure to supervise, train, or enforce policies was negligent, a claim typically covered by insurance. This strategic approach ensures that compensation is available.
• Multiple Policies: A thorough investigation will identify all potential insurance policies, including those of individual members (e.g., homeowner’s policies that may offer personal liability coverage), to maximize potential recovery.

Navigating these complexities requires a legal team with specialized knowledge, investigative resources, and a track record of confronting well-funded institutional defendants—precisely the expertise Attorney911 brings to hazing cases affecting Oregon families.

8. PRACTICAL GUIDES & FAQS

For families in Oregon, confronting the reality of hazing or the potential for it at Texas universities can be overwhelming. Knowledge and proactive steps are your most powerful tools. This section offers practical advice for parents, students, and witnesses, empowering them to recognize, prevent, and respond to hazing safely and effectively.

8.1 For Parents

Parents are often the first to notice subtle changes or receive whispered confessions. Your vigilance and informed response are critical.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be attuned to any abrupt shifts in your child’s demeanor or physical state.

  • Unexplained Injuries: Bruises, burns, or cuts (especially if explanations seem vague or inconsistent).
  • Sudden Exhaustion: Extreme fatigue, chronic sleep deprivation, or frequent late-night phone calls or mandatory early-morning activities.
  • Mood Changes: Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, withdrawal from former friends or activities.
  • Secretive Behavior: Reluctance to discuss group activities, using phrases like “I can’t talk about it,” or deleting messages.
  • Academic Decline: Falling grades, missed classes, or prioritizing group events over studies.

• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation with empathy, not accusation.

  • Start with open-ended questions like, “How are things going with [group name]?” or “Are you enjoying it as much as you thought you would?”
  • Reassure them that their safety and well-being are your top priority, far above any organizational affiliation. Emphasize that you will support them, no matter what.
  • Ask direct questions about physical activities, sleep, and their comfort level without judgment.

• If Your Child is Hurt: Prioritize immediate action.

  • Seek Medical Care: Get them emergency medical attention immediately, even if they downplay their injuries. Oregon families should be aware that medical documentation is vital evidence.
  • Document Everything: Take photos of injuries (multiple angles, with a ruler for scale), screenshot any digital communications (texts, social media posts, group chats), and write down everything your child recounts, including dates, times, and involved parties.

• Dealing with the University: Engage thoughtfully, but protect your rights.

  • Document every communication you have with university administrators.
  • Ask specifically about the organization’s prior hazing history and disciplinary actions if known.
  • Remember, the university’s internal investigation and disciplinary process is separate from any civil or criminal legal action.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer: Don’t delay if serious harm has occurred.

  • Contact Attorney911 if your child has sustained significant physical or psychological harm.
  • If you feel the university or organization is minimizing the incident, attempting to cover it up, or pressuring your child.

8.2 For Students / Pledges

If you’re a student from Oregon, entering a new university environment, you might encounter situations that blur the line between initiation and abuse. Knowing your rights and recognizing red flags can protect you.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself these questions:

  • “Am I being forced or pressured into something I genuinely don’t want to do?”
  • “Does this activity humiliate me, put me in danger, or make me feel unsafe?”
  • “Would I be comfortable doing this in front of university officials or my parents?”
  • “Are older members making new members do tasks they wouldn’t do themselves?”
  • “Am I being told to keep this a ‘secret’ or to lie about activities?”
  • If the answer is yes to any of these, it’s hazing, regardless of how others label it.

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: In a coercive group dynamic, genuine consent is often impossible. The immense pressure to belong, fear of exclusion, or desire to prove oneself can override personal judgment. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that “consent is not a defense” to hazing—meaning, even if you “agreed,” the act can still be illegal.

• Exiting and Reporting Safely: You have the absolute right to leave any organization at any time.

  • If in immediate danger, call 911. Your safety is paramount.
  • Inform someone outside the organization (a trusted adult, family member, or university official) of your decision to leave.
  • Send a clear, written message (email or text) to the chapter president stating your withdrawal. Do not agree to “one last meeting” or face-to-face confrontation, as this can be a tactic for coercion.
  • Report any threats or harassment to university officials and, if necessary, local police. Students from Oregon should remember that Texas law protects good-faith reporters.

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Many universities and laws (including Texas) provide amnesty for students who call for help in a medical emergency, even if underage drinking or drug use was involved. This encourages seeking aid without fear of punishment for minor infractions.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were once part of a hazing incident, either as a participant or a witness, your conscience may be urging you to act. Your unique perspective can be invaluable.

• Your Role in Accountability: While confronting past actions can be difficult, your testimony can be crucial in holding perpetrators and institutions accountable, preventing future harm, and saving lives.
• Seek Legal Advice: If you are a former member or witness, it’s advisable to seek your own legal counsel. An attorney can explain your rights and potential liabilities, help you navigate the reporting process, and advise on how best to cooperate with investigations while protecting yourself. This is especially true if criminal charges might apply.
• Cooperation and Impact: Offering information, even anonymously, can be the turning point in a hazing investigation. Your evidence, especially digital or internal documents, might be the missing piece needed to bring justice to victims from Oregon or elsewhere.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Oregon families, navigating the aftermath of a hazing incident is fraught with emotional and legal challenges. Avoiding common missteps can be as crucial as gathering evidence.

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN 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: This can appear as a cover-up, obstruct justice, and severely weaken any legal claim. Modern hazing cases heavily rely on digital footprints.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing or seemingly minor content. Consult with an attorney to learn how to properly secure digital evidence.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Direct confrontation almost always prompts the organization and its members to lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare strong defenses, potentially undermining your case.
   • What to do instead: Document everything thoroughly, then consult with Attorney911 before any confrontational communication.

3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms:

   • What universities sometimes do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements to keep matters private.
   • Why it’s wrong: Such documents may inadvertently force you to waive your right to pursue a lawsuit. Settlements offered through these channels are often far below the actual value of a case.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university without having an attorney review 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: Anything posted online can be used by defense attorneys to scrutinize your credibility, find inconsistencies, or argue that you are seeking attention rather than justice. It can also waive certain legal privileges.
   • What to do instead: Document privately and consult your lawyer to strategize public messaging, if any.

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

   • What fraternities/sororities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic.”
   • Why it’s wrong: These meetings are often designed to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that could be used against you in a legal proceeding.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication from the organization should be directed 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 rapidly disappears, witnesses graduate, and statutes of limitations can expire. University internal processes are distinct from legal accountability and often prioritize institutional image over victim compensation.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence immediately and consult with Attorney911. The university’s internal process does not negate the need for independent legal action.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Anything you say can be used against you. Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and early settlement offers are typically lowball figures.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak and inform them that your attorney will contact them.

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”

  • Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (like the University of Oregon or Oregon State University, or Texas institutions such as UH, Texas A&M, UT) benefit from some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, certain constitutional violations, or when claims involve federal laws like Title IX. Private universities (like SMU or Baylor) typically have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-dependent, so contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”

  • It absolutely can be. While base hazing offenses are often Class B misdemeanors, the charge escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Furthermore, individuals in leadership positions can also face misdemeanor charges for failing to report known hazing incidents.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”

  • Yes, explicitly. Texas Education Code § 37.155 clearly states that consent is not a defense to hazing prosecution or civil claims. The law acknowledges that true, voluntary agreement is compromised by power dynamics, peer pressure, and the implicit threat of exclusion inherent in hazing.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”

  • In Texas, the general statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases is two years from the date of the injury or death. However, exceptions may apply, such as the “discovery rule” (if the harm wasn’t immediately apparent) or tolling for minors. Given how rapidly evidence can disappear, it’s critical to act quickly. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately for a precise assessment.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”

  • The location of hazing does not absolve liability. Universities and national organizations can still be held accountable based on their sponsorship of the group, their knowledge of off-campus activities, and the foreseeability of hazing occurring. Many significant hazing lawsuits (e.g., the Pi Delta Psi retreat case) involved incidents that occurred off-campus.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”

  • Your family’s privacy is a top priority. Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial, and our firm works to ensure that sensitive details remain private unless public disclosure is part of a strategic push for accountability. We can discuss options for maintaining confidentiality while pursuing justice.

We understand that these situations are complex and deeply personal. Where the law is intricate or depends on the specifics of your situation, it is always best to consult with an experienced attorney who can review the facts and advise you on the best course of action.

9. ABOUT THE MANGINELLO LAW FIRM + CALL TO ACTION

When your family in Oregon faces the devastating impact of a hazing incident—whether it occurred at the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, or a Texas institution like UH or UT Austin—you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand the intricate cultural dynamics of campus life, rigorously interpret complex laws, and grasp how powerful institutions, supported by their formidable legal teams and insurance companies, fight back. At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, we are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ equipped to take on these challenges head-on.

9.1 Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases

Our firm brings a unique, battle-tested advantage to hazing litigation, ensuring that families from Oregon and across Texas receive not just representation, but truly strategic advocacy.

Our foundation is built on an insurance insider advantage, spearheaded by Lupe Peña (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/). As a former insurance defense attorney at a national firm, Lupe knows the strategies, tactics, and pressure points of fraternity and university insurance companies inside and out. She understands precisely how they value—and often undervalue—hazing claims, their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and the entire playbook they use to minimize payouts. With Lupe on your side, we know their next move because we used to make those moves.

Leading our team is Ralph Manginello (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/), a veteran trial lawyer with over 25 years of experience in complex litigation against massive corporate institutions. Ralph was one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, a testament to our capability to challenge billion-dollar entities effectively. Our extensive federal court experience, particularly in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, well-funded universities, or their sophisticated defense teams. We’ve taken on powerful corporate giants and won, and we bring that same tenacity to every hazing case.

We specialize in securing multi-million dollar wrongful death and catastrophic injury results. Hazing often leads to life-altering or fatal consequences. Our firm has a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases, collaborating with economists, life care planners, and medical experts to fully value lifetime care needs for severe injuries like traumatic brain injury or organ damage. We don’t settle cheap; we meticulously build cases that force genuine accountability.

Our expertise spans both criminal and civil hazing investigations. Ralph’s distinguished membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides us with invaluable insight into how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual understanding allows us to advise not only victims but also witnesses or former members who might face criminal exposure, providing comprehensive guidance through all legal facets of a hazing incident.

We are committed to investigative depth. Hazing cases—especially those with a culture of secrecy—demand a relentless pursuit of truth. We leverage a robust network of experts, including digital forensics specialists to recover deleted messages, medical experts to assess the full extent of physical and psychological damage, and economists to project long-term financial impacts. Our experience in comprehensively investigating modern hazing—from obtaining hidden digital communications to compelling national fraternity records and university files through discovery—means we uncover the evidence that others miss. Every discovery and every piece of evidence is pursued with the understanding that it can directly affect your child’s future.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, and indeed anywhere a serious hazing incident occurs. Families in Oregon, whether their children attend the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, or any institution across the nation, can trust that our reach extends beyond state lines. We understand that hazing at Texas universities impacts families far beyond the campus borders. Our deep understanding of Greek culture, military traditions, and the psychological underpinnings of coercion allows us to effectively challenge the narrative that hazing is merely “horseplay” or an “unavoidable tradition.” We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face, which is why our approach is rooted in empathy and fierce victim advocacy. Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family.

9.2 Call to Action

If your family in Oregon has been impacted by hazing—whether your child experienced it at the University of Oregon in Eugene, Oregon State University in Corvallis, or a major Texas campus—you don’t have to face this alone. The emotional toll and legal complexities are immense, but you have options.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will attentively listen to your story without judgment, explain your legal options—including whether a criminal report, civil lawsuit, or both, are appropriate—and help you understand the best path forward for your family. There is no pressure to retain us on the spot; our goal is to empower you with information.

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen carefully and empathetically to your account of what happened.
• We’ll review any evidence you have managed to gather, such as photos, texts, social media screenshots, and medical records.
• We’ll clearly explain your legal options under Texas (or other relevant state) law and federal regulations.
• We’ll discuss realistic timelines and what the legal process might entail.
• We’ll answer your questions about our contingency fee structure – meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Families in Oregon and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers, accountability, and justice. Whether your child is studying in Portland or a Texas city, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone.

Call us today:

• Toll-Free Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct Line: (713) 528-9070
• Cell: (713) 443-4781
• Website: https://attorney911.com
• Email Ralph Manginello directly: ralph@atty911.com

Spanish-Language Services:

• Hablamos Español. Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for a consultation in Spanish. We ensure that language is never a barrier to understanding your rights and options.

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