The Panola County Parent’s Guide to Hazing Lawsuits in Texas: Protecting Your College Student

If Your Child Was Hazed in Texas, You Are Not Alone

Imagine receiving a late-night call from your child at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, or any Texas campus. Their voice is shaky, telling you about a “tradition” that went too far—forced drinking, physical punishment, or humiliation disguised as “bonding.” They’re hurt, scared, and don’t know who to trust. For families in Panola County—from Carthage to Beckville, from Gary to Deadwood—this nightmare scenario has become a reality for too many Texas parents. Right now, across our state, students are being hospitalized, traumatized, and in the worst cases, killed in the name of tradition. We are The Manginello Law Firm, and we want every Panola County family to know: you have rights, and dangerous hazing has no place at our Texas universities.

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 Texas Hazing Case That Changed Everything: Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi

Before we discuss the broader landscape, Panola County families need to know about the case that’s forcing Texas universities and fraternities to confront their hazing problems head-on. Right now, we are actively litigating one of the most serious hazing lawsuits in Texas history.

The Victim: Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student and fall 2025 pledge of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter.

The Abuse: From September to November 2025, Bermudez was subjected to systematic hazing that included:

• Humiliating “pledge fanny pack” requirements: Forced to carry condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices, and degrading items 24/7
• Extreme physical punishment: Sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, and “save-your-brother” drills
• Cold-weather exposure in underwear
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed immediately by sprints
• Simulated waterboarding: Being sprayed in the face with a hose while threats of actual waterboarding were made
• The “workout of death”: On November 3, 2025, forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion
• Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour

The Medical Catastrophe: After the November 3 workout, Bermudez’s condition deteriorated. He passed brown urine, couldn’t stand without help, and was rushed to the hospital by his mother. He was hospitalized for four days with rhabdomyolysis (severe skeletal muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure. Lab tests showed critically high creatine kinase levels, confirming life-threatening organ damage. He faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage and long-term physical and psychological harm.

The Legal Action: We filed a $10 million lawsuit against:

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

The Institutional Response: On November 6, 2025, Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspended the Beta Nu chapter. On November 14, chapter members voted to surrender their charter, effectively shutting down the chapter. UH called the alleged conduct “deeply disturbing,” promised disciplinary measures up to expulsion, and pledged cooperation with law enforcement.

Why This Matters for Panola County Families: This case proves that severe, life-threatening hazing is happening RIGHT NOW at Texas universities. When UH calls conduct “deeply disturbing,” when a national fraternity shuts down a chapter, and when a student nearly loses kidney function—this isn’t “boys will be boys.” This is criminal conduct that demands accountability. This is exactly the type of case we handle for Texas families.

For detailed coverage of this case, see the Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case and ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit.

Hazing in 2025: What Panola County Families Need to Recognize

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Tactics

Hazing has evolved far beyond the stereotypical “pranks” of decades past. Today’s hazing is often systematic, digitally coordinated, and deliberately hidden from university oversight. For Panola County parents whose children may attend Texas A&M, UT Austin, Stephen F. Austin State University, or any Texas campus, understanding these modern tactics is crucial.

Alcohol and Substance Hazing (The Most Deadly Pattern):

• Forced or coerced drinking games (“lineups,” “Bible study,” “family tree” drinking)
• Big/Little nights where pledges are given handles of liquor
• Pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances
• The reality: Alcohol poisoning remains the leading cause of hazing deaths nationwide

Physical Hazing (Beyond “Workouts”):

• Paddling and beatings (still occurring despite national prohibitions)
• Extreme calisthenics designed to cause injury (“smokings” until collapse)
• Sleep deprivation through mandatory late-night meetings
• Food/water restriction or forced consumption of disgusting substances
• Exposure to extreme temperatures or dangerous environments

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing:

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts (“roasted pig” positions, “elephant walk”)
• Degrading costumes and public humiliation
• Acts with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones

Psychological and Digital Hazing (The 24/7 Reality):

• Verbal abuse, threats, and isolation from non-members
• Group chat monitoring with instant response demands
• Social media humiliation through forced posts or “challenges”
• Location tracking via apps like Find My Friends
• The new frontier: Hazing that follows students home through their phones

Where Hazing Happens at Texas Schools

Contrary to popular belief, hazing isn’t limited to fraternities. Panola County families should be aware that their children may face hazing in:

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural groups)
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC (especially at Texas A&M)
• Athletic Teams (from football to cheerleading)
• Spirit Organizations (Texas Cowboys, Aggie Bonfire legacy groups)
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups
• Academic and Service Organizations

The common thread isn’t the type of organization—it’s the abuse of power, the culture of secrecy, and the tragic belief that suffering builds “character” or “brotherhood.”

Texas Hazing Law: Your Rights as a Panola County Family

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws that provide both criminal penalties and civil liability pathways. For Panola County families, understanding these laws is the first step toward accountability.

Definition of Hazing (Texas Education Code §37.151):
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

• Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
• Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

Key Points for Panola County Families:

• Location doesn’t matter: Hazing at off-campus houses, Airbnbs, or retreats is still illegal
• “Reckless” is enough: They don’t need to intend harm—just be reckless about the risk
• Mental health counts: Emotional abuse and psychological trauma qualify as hazing
• Consent is NOT a defense: Even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing under Texas law (§37.155)

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law

Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000)

Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing that causes injury requiring medical treatment

State Jail Felony: Hazing that causes serious bodily injury or death

Additional Criminal Exposure:

• Failing to report hazing (if you’re a member/officer and knew about it): misdemeanor
• Retaliating against someone who reports hazing: misdemeanor
• Organizational liability: Organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation

Good-Faith Reporting Protection (§37.154):
A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from the report. This is crucial for witnesses who fear getting in trouble.

Civil Liability: Holding All Responsible Parties Accountable

While criminal cases focus on punishment, civil cases allow victims and families to seek compensation and hold every responsible party accountable. In a civil hazing lawsuit, Panola County families can potentially pursue claims against:

1. Individual Students:

• Those who planned, executed, or assisted in the hazing
• Those who supplied alcohol to minors
• Officers who knew or should have known about the hazing

2. Local Chapter/Organization:

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

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

• Organizations that set policies, collect dues, and supervise chapters
• Can be liable based on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents

4. Universities and Governing Boards:

• Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) under certain exceptions to sovereign immunity
• Private universities (SMU, Baylor) with fewer immunity protections
• Liability based on prior knowledge, inadequate policies, or failure to protect students

5. Third Parties:

• Landlords of off-campus houses
• Alcohol providers (under Texas dram shop law)
• Security companies or event organizers

Federal Laws That Strengthen Your Case

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently, strengthen prevention programs, and maintain public hazing data (phased in by 2026).

Title IX:
When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations are triggered, creating additional liability pathways.

Clery Act:
Requires reporting of certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics—hazing incidents often overlap with reportable offenses.

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern (Deadly Predictability)

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): 19-year-old pledge died from traumatic brain injuries after a bid-acceptance night with extreme drinking. Brothers delayed calling for help while Piazza suffered fatal falls captured on chapter cameras. Result: 18 members charged with over 1,000 criminal counts; Pennsylvania enacted Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Pledge forced to participate in “Bible study” drinking game; died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%). Result: Multiple criminal convictions; Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Pledge forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night; died from alcohol poisoning. Result: $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU); multiple criminal convictions.

Why This Matters for Panola County: The same national fraternities involved in these deaths—Pi Kappa Alpha, Beta Theta Pi, Phi Delta Theta—have active chapters at Texas universities. The “Big/Little” drinking night that killed Stone Foltz is the same type of event that nearly killed Leonel Bermudez at UH.

Physical and Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Pledge blindfolded, weighted down, and repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual; died from traumatic brain injury; help delayed. Result: National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years.

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021): 18-year-old pledge forced to consume excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal” night; suffered severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care). Result: Settlements with 22 defendants; multi-million dollar recoveries.

Why This Patterns Matter: These cases show that national organizations can be held criminally and civilly liable for rituals they tacitly approve or fail to stop.

Athletic Program Hazing Pattern

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): Former players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over multiple years. Result: Multiple lawsuits; head coach fired; confidential settlements.

Western Kentucky University Swim Team (2012–2015): Investigation revealed hazing dating back years including verbal/physical abuse. Result: Entire swim program suspended for five years; university settled lawsuit for $75,000.

Why This Matters for Panola County: Your child doesn’t need to join a fraternity to face hazing. Texas athletic programs—from football to baseball to spirit groups—have documented hazing histories.

Public Records Directory: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Serving Panola County Families

If you are a parent in Panola County, you deserve to know who really stands behind the Greek organizations connected to your child. Below is a sample of the public records we maintain as part of our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine. These are real organizations recorded in IRS filings and metro databases—the same entities that may hold insurance coverage and responsibility in hazing cases.

Texas-Registered Greek Organizations (IRS B83 Backbone)

Our investigation begins with the IRS Business Master File, which shows over 125 Texas-registered Greek organizations with EINs, legal names, and mailing addresses. Here are examples relevant to Panola County families whose children may attend Texas universities:

Organizations with East Texas Presence:

• KAPPA SIGMA – MU GAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 273662583 | LUFKIN, TX 75904 | IRS B83 filing
• ALPHA TAU OMEGA HOUSING CORPORATION OF ETA IOTA CHAPTER | EIN: 300517788 | NACOGDOCHES, TX 75965 | IRS B83 filing
• PHI KAPPA PSI TEXAS EPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 452729519 | NACOGDOCHES, TX 75965 | IRS B83 filing
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY – EPSILON ZETA CHAPTER | EIN: 756041410 | NACOGDOCHES, TX 75965 | IRS B83 filing
• EPSILON TAU CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 756053083 | NACOGDOCHES, TX 75961 | IRS B83 filing

Major Texas University Housing Corporations:

• BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC | EIN: 462267515 | FRISCO, TX 75035 | IRS B83 filing (This entity is connected to the UH chapter in our Bermudez case)
• TEXAS EPSILON UPSILON CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA KAPPA SORORITY | EIN: 760366414 | NEEDVILLE, TX 77461 | IRS B83 filing
• PI KAPPA ALPHA FRATERNITY – EPSILON KAPPA CHAPTER | EIN: 746064445 | NEDERLAND, TX 77627 | IRS B83 filing
• SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY ZETA ETA CHAPTER | EIN: 756060974 | COMMERCE, TX 75429 | IRS B83 filing (Texas A&M University-Commerce)

Cause IQ Metro Organizations (Shreveport-Bossier & East Texas Region)

While Panola County itself falls between major metros, families should understand the broader Greek ecosystem in our region:

Shreveport-Bossier Metro Area (30 minutes from Carthage):

• Multiple NPHC (Divine Nine) graduate chapters serving the area
• Greek organizations affiliated with LSU Shreveport, Centenary College, and Louisiana Tech
• Alumni chapters of national fraternities and sororities

East Texas University Network:

• STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY (Nacogdoches) – 15+ Greek organizations
• UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT TYLER – 10+ Greek organizations
• TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-COMMERCE – 10+ Greek organizations
• LE TOURNEAU UNIVERSITY (Longview) – Greek life presence

What This Directory Means for Your Case

When we take a hazing case for a Panola County family, we don’t start from zero. We already know:

• The legal names and EINs of organizations that may be liable
• How to trace national brands across Texas campuses
• Where to find insurance coverage and assets
• How to connect local chapters to their national oversight

This investigative depth matters. In the Bermudez case, we didn’t just sue the active members—we identified and sued the housing corporation, the national headquarters, and individual officers. This comprehensive approach maximizes accountability and recovery.

Texas Universities: Where Panola County Families Send Their Kids

Stephen F. Austin State University (Nacogdoches) – The Local Option

For many Panola County families, Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches is the closest four-year university. Just 45 minutes from Carthage, SFA hosts an active Greek community that Panola County students often join.

SFA Greek Life Overview:

• Approximately 15 fraternities and sororities
• Organizations include: Alpha Tau Omega, Chi Omega, Kappa Sigma, Phi Kappa Psi, and others
• Both IFC/Panhellenic and NPHC (Divine Nine) representation

SFA Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• Prohibits hazing on and off campus
• Reporting through Dean of Students Office
• Disciplinary actions can include suspension or expulsion of individuals and organizations

What Panola County Families Should Know:

• SFA has faced hazing investigations in past years
• The university’s proximity means Panola County parents can more easily visit and monitor their child’s well-being
• Local jurisdiction involves Nacogdoches Police Department and SFA Police for on-campus incidents

Texas A&M University (College Station) – The Aggie Tradition

Many Panola County students dream of becoming Aggies. Texas A&M’s massive Greek life and Corps of Cadets programs require particular vigilance from families.

Texas A&M Greek Life Scale:

• Over 60 fraternity and sorority chapters
• Approximately 6,000 students involved in Greek life
• Prominent organizations with national hazing histories: Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Kappa Sigma

Corps of Cadets – Unique Hazing Risks:

• Military-style discipline and tradition
• Documented hazing cases including the “roasted pig” binding incident
• Special regulations but similar liability principles apply

Recent Texas A&M Hazing Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):
Two pledges alleged they were covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner during hazing, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The fraternity was suspended for two years, and pledges sued for $1 million.

Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023):
A cadet alleged degrading hazing including being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, and Texas A&M stated it handled the matter under its regulations.

What Panola County Families Should Know:

• College Station is about 3.5 hours from Panola County—close enough for visits but far enough that parents might miss warning signs
• Brazos County courts would handle local litigation
• Texas A&M has extensive risk management programs but still experiences serious hazing incidents

University of Texas at Austin – The Flagship Campus

UT Austin attracts Panola County students seeking top-tier education, but its Greek life carries significant risks.

UT Austin’s Transparency Advantage:
UT maintains a public Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu) that lists organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions—more transparency than many Texas schools.

Documented UT Austin Hazing Violations Include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter placed on probation with mandatory hazing-prevention education.

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

Various Spirit Organizations: Texas Wranglers and other groups sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, or punishment-based practices.

What Panola County Families Should Know:

• Austin is approximately 4 hours from Panola County
• Travis County courts have seen numerous hazing-related cases
• UT’s public violation log can be powerful evidence in civil cases

University of Houston – Urban Campus with Documented Problems

As shown in our Bermudez case, UH has serious hazing issues that Panola County families must understand.

UH Greek Life Context:

• Urban commuter campus with residential Greek housing
• Approximately 40 fraternity and sorority chapters
• Includes NPHC (Divine Nine) organizations with different tradition structures

Prior UH Hazing Incidents:

Pi Kappa Alpha Lacerated Spleen Case (2016): Pledges allegedly deprived of sufficient food, water, and sleep during multi-day event; one student suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table. Chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and university suspension.

What Panola County Families Should Know:

• Houston is about 3 hours from Panola County
• Harris County courts are experienced with complex litigation
• UHPD and Houston Police Department may both have jurisdiction depending on location

Other Texas Universities Panola County Students Attend

Texas A&M University-Commerce: Located just 1.5 hours from Panola County, Commerce hosts Greek organizations that include Sigma Chi (Zeta Eta Chapter) and others listed in our public records directory.

University of Texas at Tyler: Approximately 1.5 hours away, UT Tyler has growing Greek life that Panola County students may join.

Louisiana State University Shreveport: Just 30 minutes from eastern Panola County, LSU-S has Greek organizations that fall under Louisiana’s anti-hazing laws (including the Max Gruver Act).

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery

The Evidence That Wins Cases (Preserve This Now)

Digital Communications (MOST CRITICAL):

• GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage threads: Screenshot EVERYTHING with timestamps and sender names visible
• Social media posts/stories: Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook—preserve before deletion
• Chapter apps and Discord servers: Many fraternities use private communication platforms
• Email correspondence: Between members, officers, nationals, or advisors

How to properly preserve digital evidence: Watch our video on using your phone to document evidence for best practices on screenshotting and saving digital communications.

Physical Evidence:

• Photograph injuries immediately from multiple angles with scale reference
• Save clothing with stains, tears, or damage
• Preserve objects used in hazing (paddles, bottles, props)
• Medical records: Request complete copies from every provider

Institutional Records (We Obtain via Discovery):

• University conduct files on the organization
• Prior incident reports and warning letters
• National fraternity risk management files
• Insurance policies and coverage information

Witness Information:

• Names and contact info for other pledges
• Roommates, RAs, or friends who noticed changes
• Former members who may be willing to testify

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical expenses: Emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, ongoing treatment, future care needs
• Lost educational costs: Tuition for semesters missed, lost scholarships
• Lost earning capacity: If injuries affect future employment
• Therapy and counseling: PTSD, depression, anxiety treatment

Non-Economic Damages (Substantial but Real):

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

Wrongful Death Damages (When Tragedy Strikes):

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship and support
• Parental grief and suffering
• Lost future earnings of the deceased

Punitive Damages (When Conduct is Egregious):

• To punish reckless or intentional conduct
• To deter future hazing
• Available when defendants knew risks and proceeded anyway

Our Strategic Approach for Panola County Families

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation:
Within 24 hours of contacting us, we initiate evidence preservation letters to universities, fraternities, and social media companies to prevent destruction.

2. Comprehensive Defendant Identification:
We don’t just sue the obvious parties. Using our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we identify:

• Individual members and officers
• Local chapter entities
• Housing corporations
• National headquarters
• University officials with knowledge
• Third-party property owners

3. Insurance Coverage Analysis:
Our attorney Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney is invaluable here. He knows how fraternity and university insurers:

• Value (and undervalue) claims
• Use delay tactics
• Argue coverage exclusions
• We navigate these battles to maximize recovery

4. Settlement vs. Trial Decision:
While most cases settle, our trial readiness changes settlement dynamics. Our experience includes:

• Federal court litigation (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
• BP Texas City explosion litigation (against billion-dollar defendants)
• Multi-million dollar wrongful death settlements
• Universities and nationals know we will try cases if settlements are unfair

Practical Guide for Panola County Parents

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Physical Red Flags:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Weight changes from food/water manipulation
• Signs of alcohol poisoning or substance use (especially if unusual for your child)

Behavioral Changes:

• Sudden secrecy about organization activities
• Withdrawal from family and old friends
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
• Defensive when asked about the group
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring

Academic Red Flags:

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

Digital/Social Behavior:

• Anxiety when phone buzzes
• Deleting messages obsessively
• Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response
• Social media posts showing concerning activities

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally)

1. “How are things going with [organization]? 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?”

If your child opens up, listen without judgment. If they shut down, don’t force it—but monitor closely and be ready to intervene.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Letting Your Child Delete Messages or “Clean Up” Evidence

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

2. Confronting the Fraternity/Sorority Directly

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

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms

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

4. Waiting “to See How the University Handles It”

• What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
• Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute of limitations runs
• What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately; university process ≠ real accountability

For more on common mistakes, watch our video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case.

Why Attorney911 for Panola County Hazing Cases

Our Texas Roots and Commitment

We are The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911—the Legal Emergency Lawyers™. Based in Houston with offices in Austin and Beaumont, we serve families across Texas, including Panola County and throughout East Texas. When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway.

Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

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

• Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
• Use delay tactics to pressure families
• Argue coverage exclusions
• Set reserves and negotiate settlements
  Translation: We know their playbook because we used to run it. This insider knowledge is invaluable when fighting for Panola County families.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):

• BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendants
• Federal Court Admitted: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• HCCLA Membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association signals elite criminal defense capability
• 25+ Years of Practice: Since 1998, handling high-stakes cases

Translation: We’re not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams. We’ve taken on bigger defendants and won.

Investigative Depth and Expert Network:

• Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: 1,423 Greek organizations tracked across 25 Texas metros
• Digital Forensics Capability: Recovering deleted messages and social media evidence
• Expert Network: Medical specialists, psychologists, economists, life care planners
• Public Records Mastery: IRS filings, university records, national organization documents

Translation: We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

Multi-Million Dollar Results for Texas Families

Our track record includes:

• Multi-million dollar wrongful death settlements
• Complex injury cases with lifetime care needs
• Institutional accountability against universities and national organizations
• Trial-ready approach that forces fair settlements

We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability and provide meaningful compensation for families.

Your Next Steps: Free Confidential Consultation

What to Expect When You Contact Us

1. Immediate Response:
When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’ll speak directly with our team. We understand hazing emergencies require urgent attention.

2. Confidential Consultation:
We’ll listen to your story without judgment. Everything you tell us is protected by attorney-client confidentiality.

3. Evidence Review:
We’ll review any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, screenshots, medical records) and advise on additional preservation steps.

4. Legal Options Explanation:
We’ll explain your family’s rights under Texas law, including:

• Criminal reporting options
• Civil lawsuit possibilities
• University disciplinary processes
• Realistic timelines and expectations

5. No Pressure Decision:
We won’t pressure you to hire us on the spot. We’ll provide clear information so you can make the best decision for your family.

Our Commitment to Panola County Families

Spanish Language Services Available:
Hablamos Español. Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish.

Contingency Fee Basis:
We work on contingency—no upfront costs, no fee unless we win your case. Watch our video explaining how contingency fees work for details.

Statute of Limitations Awareness:
Texas generally gives you 2 years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit, but evidence preservation must happen immediately. Learn more in our video on Texas statutes of limitations.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If hazing has impacted your Panola County family—whether at Stephen F. Austin State University, Texas A&M, UT Austin, UH, or any Texas campus—you don’t have to face this alone.

Call Attorney911: 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 (Lupe Peña)

We serve families throughout Texas from our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont. Whether you’re in Carthage, Beckville, Gary, or anywhere in Panola County, we’re here to help you seek accountability, recovery, and justice.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

Click2Houston (KPRC 2) — “‘Urine was brown’: Pledge sues over severe hazing at University of Houston’s shut down Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”

• Published: November 21, 2025 | Authors: Bryce Newberry & Holly Galvan Posey
• URL: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/

ABC13 Eyewitness News (KTRK) — “Waterboarding, forced eating, physical punishment: Lawsuit alleges abuse faced by injured pledge at UH’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”

• Published: November 22, 2025 | Author: Nick Natario
• URL: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/

Hoodline — “University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Face $10M Lawsuit Over Alleged Hazing and Abuse”

• Published: November 22, 2025 | Author: Alyssa Ford
• URL: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos

“📱 Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case? | Attorney911 Explains”

• Content: How to properly use your smartphone to document evidence after an injury or hazing incident.
• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

“Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case? | Attorney911 with Injury Lawyer Ralph Manginello”

• Content: Explains Texas statutes of limitations for personal injury cases.
• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

“Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case | Attorney911 with Ralph Manginello”

• Content: Identifies common mistakes that can damage or destroy personal injury claims.
• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

“📢 How Do Contingency Fees Work? Injury Lawyer Explains!”

• Content: Explains the contingency fee model—no upfront costs, no fee unless we win.
• URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website

Attorney911 — Main Website & Contact

• Full-service Texas personal injury and criminal defense law firm.
• 24/7 free consultations. Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont.
• URL: https://attorney911.com

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com