The Complete Guide to Hazing Lawsuits for Patton Village, Montgomery County Families: Protecting Texas Students at UH, Texas A&M & Beyond

A Nightmare Close to Home: When Texas Tradition Turns to Trauma

The phone rings at 3 AM. Your child, a freshman at the University of Houston just 45 minutes south of Patton Village, is slurring their words. Between fragmented sentences about “brotherhood” and “tradition,” you hear chanting in the background. They mumble something about “not being able to feel their legs” before the line goes dead. For families in Patton Village and across Montgomery County, this isn’t just a hypothetical fear—it’s the reality facing Texas parents whose children enter the world of fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and campus organizations.

Right now, in Harris County courthouses just south of our community, our firm is fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. We represent Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after alleged hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. The details—forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting, “waterboarding” with a hose, 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion—show how quickly “tradition” becomes life-threatening abuse. This $10 million lawsuit against UH, Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters, and 13 individual members serves as a stark warning to every family in Montgomery County: what happens at Texas universities can devastate our community.

What This Guide Offers Patton Village Families

This comprehensive resource exists for one purpose: to arm parents in Patton Village, Conroe, The Woodlands, and across Montgomery County with the knowledge they need to protect their children. Whether your student attends Sam Houston State University just north in Huntsville, ventures to the University of Houston in nearby Harris County, or joins the thousands of Montgomery County students at Texas A&M, UT Austin, or other Texas campuses, you deserve to understand:

• What modern hazing really looks like (far beyond the stereotypes)
• Texas hazing laws and how they protect—or fail—our students
• The proven patterns from national cases that repeat at Texas schools
• Specific dynamics at universities where Montgomery County families send their children
• Your legal rights and practical steps if hazing touches your family

We serve families throughout Texas from our Houston offices, including those right here in Montgomery County. Our deep investigation into Greek organizations across Texas gives us unique insight into the entities that operate in your backyard and on campuses where your children study.

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

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like for Texas Students

Beyond “Boys Will Be Boys”: The Modern Definition

For Patton Village families unfamiliar with today’s Greek life, hazing has evolved far beyond harmless pranks. Under Texas law and in practical reality, hazing means any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits.

The critical understanding for Montgomery County parents: “I agreed to it” does not make it safe or legal. The power imbalance between pledges and members, combined with fear of social exclusion, creates coercion that Texas courts recognize even when verbal “consent” exists.

Five Categories of Modern Hazing

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common—and most deadly—form. At Texas schools, this includes:

• Forced “lineups” where pledges drink shots in rapid succession
• “Big/Little” nights where new members receive handles of liquor with expectations to finish them
• Games like “Bible study” or “family tree” where wrong answers mean forced drinking
• Pressure to consume unknown mixtures or dangerous substances

2. Physical Hazing
Beyond traditional paddling, today’s physical hazing includes:

• Extreme “smokings” or workouts far beyond normal conditioning
• The Leonel Bermudez case pattern: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats, bear crawls until collapse
• Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions” or 3 AM wake-up calls
• Food/water deprivation or forced consumption of disgusting quantities (milk, hot dogs, raw eggs)
• Exposure to extreme elements (left outside in cold weather, locked in freezing rooms)

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
Some of the most psychologically damaging forms include:

• Forced nudity or partial nudity during initiations
• Simulated sexual acts or degrading positions
• “Roasted pig” scenarios where students are bound and humiliated
• Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones

4. Psychological Hazing
The invisible wounds can be deepest:

• Verbal abuse, screaming, and personal attacks during “interviews”
• Isolation from non-member friends and family
• Threats of expulsion from the organization for minor infractions
• Manipulation and forced “confessions” of real or imagined faults

5. Digital/Online Hazing
A rapidly evolving frontier that particularly affects tech-savvy Texas students:

• Group chat dares on GroupMe, WhatsApp, or Discord
• Social media challenges requiring embarrassing posts
• Pressure to share compromising photos/videos
• 24/7 availability demands with immediate response requirements
• Location tracking via apps like Find My Friends

Where Hazing Happens: It’s Not Just Fraternities

Montgomery County parents should know hazing occurs across campus organizations:

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural groups)
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC at Texas A&M and other military-style programs
• Athletic Teams from football to cheerleading
• Spirit and Tradition Groups like Texas Cowboys at UT
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups
• Academic and Service Organizations

The common thread: any group with initiation rituals, power imbalances, and traditions worth “protecting” can become a hazing environment.

Texas Hazing Law: What Montgomery County Families Must Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Child’s Legal Protection

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that protect students from Patton Village to El Paso. The law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

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

For Montgomery County families, several key provisions matter most:

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152):

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

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
Fraternities, sororities, or clubs can be prosecuted if:

• The organization authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
• An officer or member acting in official capacity knew about hazing and failed to report it
• Penalties include fines up to $10,000 per violation and university banishment

Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.155):
Texas law explicitly states that the victim’s “consent” does not excuse hazing. This directly counters the “they wanted to do it” defense often used by organizations.

Good-Faith Reporting Protection (§ 37.154):
Students who report hazing to universities or law enforcement in good faith receive immunity from civil or criminal liability. Many Texas campuses extend this to amnesty for underage drinking when reporting medical emergencies.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Two Paths to Accountability

Criminal Cases:

• Brought by the state (Montgomery County DA, Harris County DA, or campus jurisdiction)
• Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Typical charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Example: Pi Kappa Phi members facing potential criminal charges in the Bermudez case

Civil Cases:

• Brought by victims or families (like the Bermudez $10 million lawsuit)
• Aim: Compensation and institutional accountability
• Focus: negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress
• Can proceed even without criminal charges

For Patton Village families, both paths may be available, and they often run simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t required for civil recovery.

Federal Overlay: National Standards Apply in Texas

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
This federal legislation requires colleges receiving federal aid (all Texas public universities) to:

• Report hazing incidents more transparently
• Strengthen hazing education and prevention
• Maintain public hazing data (phasing in by 2026)
  This means Montgomery County families will eventually have better access to campus hazing records.

Title IX & Clery Act:
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger. The Clery Act requires reporting certain crimes—many hazing incidents overlap with these categories. These federal frameworks give additional leverage when universities fail to respond appropriately.

Who Can Be Liable? The Chain of Responsibility

1. Individual Students:

• Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover them up
• In the Bermudez case: 13 individual Pi Kappa Phi members including chapter president, pledgemaster, risk manager

2. Local Chapter / Organization:

• The fraternity/sorority entity itself (if incorporated)
• Chapter officers acting in official capacity

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

• Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
• Pi Kappa Phi national is named in the Bermudez lawsuit despite suspending the chapter

4. Universities & Governing Boards:

• Schools may be liable under negligence or civil rights theories
• The University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents are defendants in the Bermudez case
• Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference

5. Third Parties:

• Landlords of off-campus houses (like the Culmore Drive residence in the Bermudez case)
• Bars or alcohol providers (under Texas dram shop laws)
• Security companies or event organizers

For Montgomery County families, this multi-defendant approach is crucial—it ensures all responsible parties contribute to recovery and accountability.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: When “Tradition” Kills

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021):
The 20-year-old pledge was forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” event. He died from alcohol poisoning, leaving behind a $10 million settlement that included $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national and approximately $3 million from BGSU. For Patton Village families: This shows national fraternities will pay substantial settlements when their chapters follow deadly drinking scripts.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):
During a “Bible study” drinking game, Gruver was forced to drink when answering questions incorrectly. His blood alcohol level reached 0.495%, and his death led Louisiana to enact the Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony. For Montgomery County parents: This demonstrates how individual state laws strengthen after tragedies, and how “games” become lethal.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017):
At a “Big Brother Night,” Coffey was given a handle of liquor and drank to dangerous levels. His death prompted FSU to temporarily suspend all Greek life. Texas connection: Pi Kappa Phi is the same national organization involved in the University of Houston Bermudez case, showing pattern behavior across chapters.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing: Violence Disguised as Tradition

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013):
At a fraternity retreat, Deng was blindfolded, weighted with a backpack, and repeatedly tackled during a “glass ceiling” ritual. He suffered fatal head injuries while members delayed calling 911. The national fraternity was criminally convicted and banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. For Patton Village families: This proves nationals face consequences beyond civil liability, and that “retreats” can be particularly dangerous.

Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025):
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the football program spanning years. Multiple lawsuits led to head coach Pat Fitzgerald’s firing and confidential settlements. Texas takeaway: Hazing isn’t limited to Greek life—big-money athletic programs harbor systemic abuse with institutional protection.

What These Cases Mean for Montgomery County Families

The patterns are clear and repeating:

• Forced drinking rituals follow similar scripts across organizations
• Delay in seeking medical help dramatically worsens outcomes
• National organizations have prior knowledge of dangerous traditions
• Universities often prioritize reputation over student safety
• Multi-million-dollar settlements are becoming standard for fatalities and catastrophic injuries

These national precedents shape what’s possible for Texas families pursuing justice.

Texas University Focus: Where Montgomery County Students Face Risk

University of Houston: The Closest Major Campus to Patton Village

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Just 45 minutes south of Patton Village in Harris County, UH serves as the closest major research university for many Montgomery County families. With over 46,000 students and active Greek life across 50+ chapters, it represents both opportunity and risk for local students. The Bermudez case unfolding right now demonstrates what can happen when traditions turn toxic.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting:
UH prohibits hazing both on and off-campus, with specific bans on forced alcohol consumption, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and mental distress during initiation. Reporting channels include the Dean of Students Office, Campus Safety, and anonymous online forms. Yet the Bermudez case alleges these policies failed in practice.

Documented Incidents & Responses:

• 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha Case: Pledges allegedly deprived of food, water, and sleep during multi-day events; one student suffered a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a table. The chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and suspension.
• Current Pi Kappa Phi Case (Bermudez): Allegations include forced consumption leading to rhabdomyolysis, simulated waterboarding, and psychological coercion. The chapter was suspended November 6, 2025, and members voted to surrender their charter November 14, 2025.
• Pattern: UH has suspended multiple chapters for hazing violations but often discloses limited details publicly.

How a UH Hazing Case Proceeds:
For Montgomery County families, a UH case typically involves:

• Jurisdiction: Harris County courts (where our firm filed the Bermudez lawsuit)
• Investigating Agencies: UH Police Department and/or Houston Police Department
• Potential Defendants: Individuals, local chapter, national organization, UH, property owners
• Legal Strategy: Our firm’s current litigation against 17 defendants shows the comprehensive approach needed

What UH Students & Parents Should Do:

1. Immediate Reporting: Contact UH Dean of Students (713-743-5470) and UHPD (713-743-3333)
2. Evidence Preservation: Screenshot all GroupMe/WhatsApp conversations from the chapter
3. Medical Documentation: Visit UH Student Health Center or Houston-area hospitals, explicitly stating “I was hazed”
4. Legal Consultation: Contact our firm at 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking with UH administrators or defense attorneys
5. Pattern Research: Request prior conduct records for the organization through Texas Public Information Act requests

Texas A&M University: The Premier Destination for Many Montgomery County Students

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Many Patton Village families send students to Texas A&M, drawn by its academic reputation and strong tradition. However, the combination of massive Greek life (60+ chapters) and the Corps of Cadets creates multiple hazing risk environments. The 72,000-student population includes thousands from Montgomery County.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting:
A&M maintains strict anti-hazing policies covering all student organizations. The university emphasizes that “tradition never justifies endangering students.” Reporting channels include the Student Conduct Office, Corps of Cadets leadership, and anonymous systems. Yet high-profile cases continue to emerge.

Documented Incidents & Responses:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts. The fraternity was suspended for two years, and victims filed a $1 million lawsuit.
• Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023): A cadet alleged degrading hazing including being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. He sought over $1 million in damages, with A&M asserting it handled the matter internally.
• Ongoing Kappa Sigma Rhabdomyolysis Case: Allegations of extreme physical hazing leading to the same muscle-breaking condition suffered by UH’s Bermudez.

How an A&M Hazing Case Proceeds:

• Jurisdiction: Brazos County courts, though Montgomery County families can work with our Houston-based firm
• Investigating Agencies: A&M Police Department, Bryan/College Station PD
• Complex Dynamics: Corps cases involve military-style chain of command issues; Greek cases mirror national patterns
• Institutional Challenges: A&M’s deep tradition culture can create resistance to external accountability

What A&M Students & Parents Should Do:

1. Understand Dual Systems: Corps hazing reports go through military chain; Greek reports through Student Conduct
2. Medical Priority: Texas A&M Health Services or Brazos County hospitals for documentation
3. Tradition Context: Recognize that “this is how it’s always been” isn’t a legal defense
4. Early Legal Advice: Contact us before participating in university “internal resolutions” that may limit legal options

University of Texas at Austin: The Flagship with Transparency

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
UT Austin attracts Montgomery County students with its academic prestige and vibrant campus life. Its 50,000+ student body includes significant Greek life and spirit organizations. UT stands out for relative transparency in hazing reporting.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting:
UT maintains a publicly accessible Hazing Violations page listing organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions—a rarity among Texas universities. The university prohibits hazing in any form and provides multiple reporting channels including anonymous options.

Documented Incidents & Responses:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation with required hazing prevention education.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Australian exchange student alleged assault resulting in dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose; lawsuit seeks over $1 million.
• Texas Wranglers & Spirit Groups: Multiple sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and punishment-based practices.
• Transparency Advantage: Families can review years of violations at hazing.utexas.edu before their child joins an organization.

How a UT Hazing Case Proceeds:

• Jurisdiction: Travis County courts, though our firm handles cases statewide
• Investigating Agencies: UT Police Department, Austin Police Department
• Evidence Advantage: Public violation records provide pattern evidence for civil cases
• Legal Strategy: Prior violations listed on UT’s site become powerful evidence of institutional knowledge

What UT Students & Parents Should Do:

1. Pre-Join Research: Check hazing.utexas.edu for any organization your child considers
2. Reporting Leverage: Use UT’s transparency commitment to demand thorough investigations
3. Medical Documentation: UT University Health Services or Austin-area hospitals
4. Legal Timing: Contact our firm early—UT’s process is more transparent but may still limit recovery options

Southern Methodist University: Private Campus, Complex Dynamics

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Many Montgomery County families choose SMU for its private education and strong professional networks. The affluent campus with active Greek life presents unique hazing dynamics, with greater resources but potentially less transparency than public institutions.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting:
As a private university, SMU isn’t subject to all Texas Public Information Act requirements but maintains anti-hazing policies and reporting systems including anonymous options. The university emphasizes “community standards” alongside legal compliance.

Documented Incidents & Responses:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, and deprived of sleep; chapter suspended until approximately 2021.
• Multiple Greek Investigations: Periodic suspensions and probations for alcohol-related and physical hazing violations, often with limited public detail due to private university status.
• Pattern: SMU handles many cases through internal conduct processes with confidential outcomes.

How an SMU Hazing Case Proceeds:

• Jurisdiction: Dallas County courts
• Transparency Challenge: Private university status means fewer publicly accessible records
• Legal Strategy: Requires aggressive discovery requests to obtain internal conduct files
• Defendant Resources: Well-funded national organizations and affluent families can mean vigorous defense

What SMU Students & Parents Should Do:

1. Assume Less Transparency: Internal processes may not disclose full information
2. Aggressive Evidence Preservation: Assume the university won’t preserve digital evidence for you
3. Medical Documentation: SMU Health Center or Dallas-area hospitals with explicit hazing mention
4. Legal Consultation Before Internal Processes: Once you engage in SMU’s conduct system, you may waive certain rights

Baylor University: Religious Identity & Historical Challenges

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Baylor’s religious identity attracts many Montgomery County families seeking faith-based education. However, the university’s history with institutional accountability (particularly around Title IX) creates complex dynamics for hazing cases.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting:
Baylor maintains “zero tolerance” hazing policies aligned with its Christian mission. Reporting channels include the Student Conduct Office and anonymous systems. The university emphasizes “community, integrity, and safety” in all organizational activities.

Documented Incidents & Responses:

• Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation; staggered suspensions affected team season.
• Greek Life Sanctions: Periodic probations and suspensions for alcohol-related and physical hazing, often handled through internal processes.
• Institutional Context: Baylor’s prior sexual assault scandal affects how the university handles all misconduct allegations, potentially leading to over-correction or excessive secrecy.

How a Baylor Hazing Case Proceeds:

• Jurisdiction: McLennan County courts
• Religious Dimension: Baylor may frame issues as “community standards” violations rather than legal matters
• Historical Context: The university’s past institutional failures affect current response patterns
• Legal Strategy: Requires understanding both Texas law and Baylor’s unique religious-educational context

What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do:

1. Understand Dual Frameworks: “Community standards” versus legal liability
2. Document Everything: Assume institutional processes may not preserve your evidence
3. Medical Documentation: Baylor Health Center or Waco-area hospitals
4. Legal Advice Before Religious Counseling: Pastoral counseling may be privileged; understand implications before disclosing

Sam Houston State University: The Local Option for Montgomery County

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Just north of Patton Village in Huntsville, SHSU serves as the most accessible university for many Montgomery County students. With 21,000 students and growing Greek life, it represents both convenience and potential risk for local families.

Documented Concerns:
While less publicized than larger universities, SHSU has faced hazing allegations in Greek organizations and athletic teams. The proximity to Montgomery County means our firm frequently consults with local families about incidents at SHSU.

Practical Considerations for SHSU Families:

1. Immediate Accessibility: Physical proximity means parents can respond quickly
2. Local Medical Care: Huntsville hospitals for documentation
3. Community Connections: Many families know each other, affecting reporting decisions
4. Legal Jurisdiction: Walker County courts, but our Montgomery County-adjacent firm handles cases

Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories Repeating in Texas

Why National Histories Matter to Montgomery County Families

When your child joins a fraternity or sorority at a Texas university, they’re not just joining a campus chapter—they’re affiliating with a national organization with decades of history, patterns, and prior incidents. These histories create legal concepts called foreseeability and prior notice that become crucial in hazing lawsuits.

Our firm maintains what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a comprehensive database tracking 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros, built from IRS records, university data, and national incident reports. This allows us to show patterns like this:

Pi Kappa Alpha National Pattern:

• Stone Foltz death at Bowling Green (2021) – $10 million settlement
• David Bogenberger death at Northern Illinois (2012) – $14 million settlement
• Multiple Texas chapter sanctions at UT, A&M, and other campuses
• Legal significance: When a Texas Pike chapter engages in forced drinking rituals, the national organization cannot claim “we didn’t know this could happen”

Sigma Alpha Epsilon National Pattern:

• Carson Starkey death at Cal Poly (2008) – confidential settlement funding national prevention nonprofit
• Texas A&M chemical burns case (2021) – $1 million lawsuit
• UT Austin assault case (2024) – ongoing litigation
• University of Alabama traumatic brain injury case (2023) – pending
• Texas reality: SAE’s national history of alcohol-related deaths means Texas chapters operate with clear prior warnings

Pi Kappa Phi National Pattern:

• Andrew Coffey death at Florida State (2017) – confidential settlement
• Leonel Bermudez injury at University of Houston (2025) – $10 million active lawsuit
• Montgomery County connection: The same national organization facing litigation in Houston has chapters at multiple Texas schools attended by local students

The Texas Greek Organization Network: Understanding the Entity Web

For Montgomery County families, it’s crucial to understand that “the fraternity” isn’t one entity but a network of legal organizations:

House Corporations: Separate legal entities that own/manage chapter houses
Example from our database: “Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc” – EIN 462267515 – Frisco, TX 75035

Alumni Chapters: Graduate organizations that often fund and advise undergraduate chapters
Example: “Arlington-Grand Prairie Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Frat Inc” – EIN 232452759 – Grand Prairie, TX 75054

Educational Foundations: Tax-exempt entities supporting chapter activities
Example: “Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc” – EIN 741380362 – Fort Worth, TX 76147

National Headquarters: The central organization with ultimate authority
Example: Pi Kappa Phi national named in Bermudez lawsuit

When we investigate hazing cases for Montgomery County families, we trace this entire network to identify all potentially liable parties and insurance coverage sources.

Campus-Specific Rosters: Where Montgomery County Students Join

Using official university rosters, we track which organizations operate at each Texas campus. For example:

University of Houston Active Fraternities Include:

• Alpha Epsilon Pi (ΑΕΠ)
• Alpha Sigma Phi (ΑΣΦ)
• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ)
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ)
• Lambda Chi Alpha (ΛΧΑ)
• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ)
• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ) – currently suspended
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ)
• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ)

Texas A&M Active Fraternities Include:

• Alpha Gamma Rho (ΑΓΡ)
• Alpha Sigma Phi (ΑΣΦ)
• Beta Theta Pi (ΒΘΠ)
• Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)
• Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ)
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) – previous suspension
• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ)

This campus-specific knowledge helps Montgomery County families make informed decisions and helps us build cases showing organizations knew or should have known about risks.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy for Montgomery County Families

The Evidence Pyramid: What Wins Cases in Texas Courts

Level 1: Digital Communications (Most Critical)

• Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord conversations showing planning, coercion, or admissions
• Social Media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok videos of events
• Deleted Recovery: Digital forensics can often retrieve “disappeared” messages
• Montgomery County Context: Students from our community often use these platforms; preserving early is crucial

Level 2: Photos & Videos

• Event footage filmed by participants
• Injury documentation with date/time stamps
• Location evidence showing where incidents occurred
• Bermudez Case Example: Evidence from Pi Kappa Phi house, Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Boulevard Park

Level 3: Internal Organization Documents

• Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
• Member communications about activities
• National policies and training materials
• Our Firm’s Approach: We subpoena these from nationals during discovery

Level 4: University Records

• Prior conduct files and disciplinary history
• Campus police incident reports
• Clery Act reports and Title IX documents
• Texas Advantage: Public information laws help obtain these from state schools

Level 5: Medical & Psychological Records

• Emergency room and hospitalization records
• Toxicology reports (blood alcohol levels)
• Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression diagnoses)
• Montgomery County Resource: Local hospitals and mental health providers can document harm

Level 6: Witness Testimony

• Other pledges and members
• Roommates, RAs, bystanders
• Former members who left the organization
• Community Factor: In tight-knit Montgomery County, witnesses may know each other

Damages: What Montgomery County Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical Expenses: ER visits, hospitalizations, surgeries, ongoing therapy
• Future Medical Care: Lifetime treatment for permanent injuries like kidney damage (Bermudez case) or brain injuries
• Lost Earnings: Missed work, delayed graduation, reduced earning capacity
• Educational Costs: Tuition for withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm):

• Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries and recovery
• Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in college life, activities, relationships
• Reputational Harm: Social stigma affecting future opportunities

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
• Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering

Punitive Damages (When Available):

• Designed to punish especially reckless or intentional conduct
• Require showing gross negligence or malice
• Texas Consideration: Subject to statutory caps in many cases

The Insurance Coverage Battle: Why Experience Matters

Fraternities, sororities, and universities carry insurance policies that become central to recovery. However, insurers frequently argue:

• Intentional Acts Exclusion: Claiming hazing is intentional and therefore excluded
• Criminal Acts Exclusion: Arguing criminal behavior voids coverage
• Policy Limits: Attempting to limit payouts to minimum amounts

Our firm’s unique advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how insurers value claims, set reserves, and deploy delay tactics. This insider knowledge helps us:

• Identify all potential policies (chapter, national, university, individual)
• Navigate coverage exclusions and arguments
• Force insurers to defend rather than deny
• Pursue bad faith claims when insurers wrongfully refuse coverage

For Montgomery County families, this means we approach settlement negotiations with understanding of the other side’s playbook.

The Strategic Timeline: From Incident to Resolution

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-48 Hours)

• Medical attention and evidence preservation
• Initial legal consultation
• Strategic decisions about reporting

Phase 2: Investigation (Days 3-30)

• Comprehensive evidence collection
• Witness interviews
• Preservation demands to organizations
• Initial insurance notifications

Phase 3: Case Development (Months 1-6)

• Formal demand packages
• Settlement negotiations
• Discovery planning if lawsuit filed
• Expert consultations (medical, economic, Greek life)

Phase 4: Litigation (Months 6-24+)

• Formal lawsuit filing (like our Bermudez case)
• Discovery process (depositions, document requests)
• Mediation and settlement conferences
• Trial preparation if necessary

Phase 5: Resolution

• Settlement or trial verdict
• Structured payments for future needs
• Confidentiality agreements when appropriate
• Institutional reform commitments

For Montgomery County families, understanding this timeline helps manage expectations during a stressful process.

Practical Guides & FAQs for Patton Village Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Hazed:

• Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Sudden weight changes (gain or loss)
• Sleep deprivation (constantly tired, 3 AM calls)
• Personality changes (anxiety, depression, withdrawal)
• Secrecy about organization activities
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring

1. Financial strain (unexpected expenses, requests for money)
2. Academic decline (missed classes, dropping grades)

How to Talk to Your Child:

1. Choose the Right Time: Private, calm setting without distractions
2. Use Open Questions: “How are things with [organization]?” not “Are they hazing you?”
3. Listen Without Judgment: Let them share at their pace
4. Emphasize Safety: “Your health matters more than any group”
5. Offer Unconditional Support: “We’ll figure this out together”

If Your Child is Injured:

1. Medical First: ER or urgent care immediately, even if they resist
2. Document Everything: Photos of injuries, notes of what happened
3. Preserve Digital Evidence: Screenshot messages before they’re deleted
4. Contact Our Firm: 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to the organization
5. Avoid Social Media: Don’t post details that could compromise the case

Dealing with the University:

1. Document All Communications: Emails, calls, meetings
2. Ask Specific Questions: “What prior incidents involve this organization?”
3. Request Records: Use Texas Public Information Act for public universities
4. Consult Us First: Before signing any university “resolution” agreements
5. Understand Limits: University discipline ≠ legal accountability

For Students: Safety, Reporting, and Rights

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment:

• Are you being pressured to do something unsafe?
• Would you do this if there were no social consequences?
• Is the activity hidden from outsiders?
• Are older members making you do things they don’t do?
• Does it feel degrading or humiliating?
• Are you told to keep secrets?

If You’re in Immediate Danger:

1. Call 911 for medical emergencies
2. Get to Safety: Your dorm, a friend’s place, public area
3. You Won’t Get in Trouble: Texas law protects those seeking help in emergencies

How to Exit Safely:

1. Tell Someone First: Parent, RA, trusted friend
2. Written Resignation: Email/text to chapter leadership: “I resign effective immediately”
3. Avoid “One Last Meeting”: Where pressure or retaliation might occur
4. Report Retaliation: Campus police and Dean of Students if threatened

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

• Consent Isn’t a Defense: Even if you “agreed,” it’s still hazing
• Good-Faith Reporting Protection: Immunity for reporting emergencies
• Civil Lawsuit Option: You can sue even without criminal charges
• No-Contact Orders: Available through university if harassed

For Former Members & Witnesses: Coming Forward

If You Participated and Regret It:

1. Understand Your Position: You may have liability but also valuable information
2. Get Legal Advice: Consult an attorney about your exposure
3. Consider Cooperation: Your testimony could prevent future harm
4. Protect Yourself: Don’t make statements without counsel

If You Witnessed Hazing:

1. Document What You Saw: Notes with dates, times, details
2. Preserve Evidence: Any photos, messages, or objects
3. Consider Reporting: Anonymously if safety is a concern
4. Consult Our Firm: We can advise on witness protection and cooperation

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

Mistake #1: Deleting Evidence

• What Happens: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
• The Reality: Looks like cover-up, can be obstruction of justice
• The Fix: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

Mistake #2: Confronting the Organization

• What Happens: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
• The Reality: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
• The Fix: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

Mistake #3: Signing University Agreements

• What Happens: Pressure to sign “internal resolution” forms
• The Reality: You may waive legal rights for minimal settlements
• The Fix: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

Mistake #4: Social Media Posting
linking – What Happens: “I want people to know what happened”

• The Reality: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt your case
• The Fix: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

Mistake #5: Waiting on the University

• What Happens: “We’re investigating internally”
• The Reality: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statutes run
• The Fix: Preserve evidence NOW; consult a lawyer immediately

Mistake #6: Talking to Insurance Adjusters

• What Happens: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
• The Reality: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
• Fix: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Montgomery County Families

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

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

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t voluntary. This was critical in our Bermudez case arguments.

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

“What if it happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. The Bermudez case involves off-campus locations (Culmore Drive, Yellowstone Park).

“Will this be confidential?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“How much does a hazing lawyer cost?”
We work on contingency—no fee unless we win. We cover all case expenses upfront and get paid from recovery. This makes justice accessible to all Montgomery County families regardless of financial means.

About The Manginello Law Firm: Why We’re Different for Hazing Cases

Texas-Based, Montgomery County-Connected

From our Houston offices just south of your community, we serve families throughout Texas, including Patton Village and across Montgomery County. We understand that hazing at Texas universities doesn’t just affect students—it impacts entire communities like yours. 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.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña):
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value claims, deploy delay tactics, and argue coverage exclusions. His insider perspective helps us: “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):
Our firm was one of the few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation—taking on billion-dollar corporations with unlimited legal budgets. This experience directly applies to hazing cases against national fraternities and universities: “We’ve faced the biggest defendants and won. We’re not intimidated by institutional power.”

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

Criminal + Civil Dual Expertise:
Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us elite criminal defense capability. We understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation and can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure.

Investigative Depth with Expert Networks:
We maintain relationships with:

• Medical experts specializing in hazing injuries (rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD)
• Digital forensics experts for recovering deleted messages
• Greek life culture experts explaining traditions and power dynamics
• Economists for calculating lifetime damages
• Life-care planners for catastrophic injury cases

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine:
Our proprietary database tracks 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros, built from IRS records, university data, and national incident reports. When we take your case, we don’t start from zero—we already know the organizational landscape.

How We Investigate Hazing Cases for Montgomery County Families

Phase 1: Immediate Evidence Preservation

• Digital forensics for deleted group chats
• Photographic documentation of injuries and locations
• Witness identification and protection
• Medical record collection

Phase 2: Organizational Mapping

• Identifying all potentially liable entities
• Tracing insurance coverage sources
• Researching prior incidents and patterns
• Understanding campus-specific dynamics

Phase 3: Strategic Case Development

• Determining optimal jurisdiction and venue
• Planning defendant approach (individuals vs. institutions)
• Calculating comprehensive damages
• Preparing for settlement negotiations or litigation

Phase 4: Resolution Focused on Your Family

• Prioritizing your child’s recovery and privacy
• Seeking institutional reform to prevent recurrence
• Ensuring adequate compensation for all harms
• Providing closure and accountability

Our Commitment to Montgomery County Families

We approach hazing cases with:

• Empathy First: We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face
• Thorough Investigation: We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does
• Institutional Accountability: We push for changes that protect future students
• Victim Advocacy: We prioritize your family’s needs over quick settlements
• Community Connection: We understand Montgomery County values and concerns

Call to Action: Protecting Patton Village Students

Your Next Step: Confidential Consultation

If you or your child has experienced hazing at any Texas campus—from Sam Houston State just north to University of Houston south to Texas A&M west—we want to hear from you. Families in Patton Village, Conroe, The Woodlands, and across Montgomery County have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

1. We Listen Without Judgment: Your story matters
2. Evidence Review: We’ll examine any photos, texts, or medical records you have
3. Legal Options Explained: Criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
4. Realistic Timelines: What to expect week by week, month by month
5. Cost Discussion: Contingency fee basis—no fee unless we win
6. No Pressure: Take time to decide—everything is confidential

Contact Information:

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

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

Serving All of Texas from Our Houston Office

While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas. Montgomery County cases benefit from our:

• Proximity to your community
• Understanding of local courts and jurisdictions
• Relationships with Texas experts and investigators
• Experience with universities your children attend

Final Word to Patton Village Families

Whether your student attends school in our backyard or across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions involved have teams of lawyers and insurers—you deserve the same level of representation.

The Bermudez case ongoing right now at University of Houston shows what’s possible when families stand up for accountability. Let us help you do the same.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Immediate help is our promise.

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

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

Main Website: https://attorney911.com

Educational Videos:

• Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
• Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
• How Do Contingency Fees Work?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc
• Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

Practice Area Pages:

1. Wrongful Death Claims: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
2. Criminal Defense: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/

Attorney Profiles:

1. Ralph Manginello: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
2. Lupe Peña: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

News Coverage of UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

1. Click2Houston Report: 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/
2. ABC13 Coverage: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
3. Hoodline Summary: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/