Hazing at Texas Universities: A Complete Guide for Families in Pflugerville

If Your Child Was Hazed, You’re Not Alone—And Texas Law Is on Your Side

Picture a college student from a Pflugerville family, now living in a dorm at the University of Texas at Austin. It’s a Tuesday night, but they’re not studying. They’re in an off-campus house, surrounded by older fraternity members. Their phone buzzes constantly with demands in a GroupMe chat. They’re exhausted from days of sleep deprivation, forced to attend “mandatory” late-night sessions, wearing a degrading “pledge” item. Tonight, they’re told to drink from a bottle being passed around—a “tradition.” They hesitate, but the room falls silent. The message is clear: drink or face social exclusion. Hours later, they’re vomiting, disoriented, and scared to call for help because “brothers don’t get brothers in trouble.”

This isn’t a dramatization. It’s happening right now on Texas campuses, including those where Pflugerville families send their children: UT Austin, Texas A&M, the University of Houston, and others. And when it happens, families in our community feel isolated, angry, and unsure where to turn.

Right now, in Texas, we’re leading one of the most serious hazing cases in the country: representing Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. The allegations are harrowing: forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting; 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion; lying in vomit-soaked grass; being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding.” The result? Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, brown urine, and a four-day hospitalization. The fraternity chapter has been shut down, and the university calls the conduct “deeply disturbing.”

This guide is for you—parents and families in Pflugerville and across Travis County. We’ll explain what hazing really looks like in 2025, your legal rights under Texas law, what’s happening at Texas universities, and how experienced legal representation can help your family find answers and accountability.

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

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025

For Pflugerville families, understanding modern hazing is crucial. It’s not just “boys being boys” or harmless pranks. Today’s hazing is sophisticated, often digital, and designed to evade detection while maintaining control over new members.

A Clear, Modern Definition

Hazing is 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. Crucially, “I agreed to it” does not make it legal when there’s peer pressure and power imbalance. Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing.

Main Categories of Hazing

Alcohol and Substance Hazing

Forced or coerced drinking during “big/little” nights, bid acceptances, or “family tree” games
Chugging challenges, “lineups” where pledges must drink rapidly
Pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances
The result we see too often: alcohol poisoning, hospitalization, or worse

Physical Hazing

Paddling, beatings, or “smokings” (extreme calisthenics)
Sleep deprivation through late-night “meetings” or 3 AM wake-up calls
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpleasant substances
Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments
The Leonel Bermudez case shows this: forced workouts causing rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions, degrading costumes
Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones
Public shaming on social media or in group settings

Psychological Hazing

Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
Manipulation, forced confessions, or “grilling” sessions
Constant monitoring via group chats with instant response demands

Digital/Online Hazing

Group chat dares on GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord
“Challenges” requiring embarrassing social media posts
Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos
Location tracking via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps

Where Hazing Actually Happens

While fraternities and sororities get most attention, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC / military-style groups
Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer, etc.)
Marching bands and performance groups
Spirit squads and tradition clubs
Some service, cultural, and academic organizations

The common thread? Social status, tradition, and secrecy keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law: What Pflugerville Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code – Chapter 37: The Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code. Here’s what Pflugerville families should understand:

Definition (Plain English): Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student that:

Endangers mental or physical health or safety, AND
Occurs for pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any student organization

Key Points for Parents:

Can happen on or off campus—location doesn’t matter
Can cause mental or physical harm—both count
“Reckless” is enough—they don’t need malicious intent
Consent is NOT a defense—even if your child “agreed”

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law

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

Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing that causes injury requiring medical treatment

State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

Additional Crimes:

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

Organizational Liability

Texas law allows organizations to be prosecuted if:

The org authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
An officer/member acting officially knew and failed to report

Penalties for organizations:

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

Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting

A person who in good faith reports hazing to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability. This is crucial: Texas law and many university policies provide amnesty for students who call 911 in medical emergencies, even if they were drinking underage.

Texas vs. Other States

Texas is strong but not strongest:

Pennsylvania (Piazza Law): Upgraded hazing to felonies more easily
Louisiana (Max Gruver Act): Felony hazing with serious prison time
Ohio (Collin’s Law): Felony when drugs/alcohol cause physical harm

Texas stands in middle:

Has criminal hazing statute (good)
Allows felony prosecution for serious injury/death (good)
Clear “consent not a defense” provision (excellent)
Needs stronger public awareness like “Piazza Law” branding

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding Both Tracks

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (prosecutor)
Aim: punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: monetary compensation and accountability
Focus: negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, emotional distress

Both can run side-by-side, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case.

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

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
Strengthens hazing education and prevention
Maintains public hazing data (phased in by 2026)

Title IX / Clery:

When hazing involves sexual harassment or assault, Title IX obligations trigger
Clery requires reporting certain crimes; hazing often overlaps with assaults or alcohol crimes

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual students: Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up

Local chapter/organization: The fraternity/sorority itself and its officers

National fraternity/sorority: Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters

University or governing board: Schools may be sued under negligence or civil-rights theories

Third parties: Landlords, bar owners, security companies, event organizers

Every case is fact-specific; not every party is liable in every situation.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Families Can Learn

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

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

Bid-acceptance event with heavy drinking
Severe falls captured on chapter cameras; hours delayed before medical help
Dozens of criminal charges; civil litigation; Pennsylvania’s “Piazza Law”
Takeaway for Pflugerville families: Extreme intoxication + delayed 911 calls + culture of silence = legal devastation

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

“Big/little” event; pledge given handle of liquor; died from alcohol poisoning
Criminal hazing charges; FSU suspended Greek life temporarily
Takeaway: Formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are repeating scripts for disaster

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

“Bible study” drinking game; forced drinking for wrong answers
Death led to felony hazing law (Max Gruver Act) in Louisiana
Takeaway: Legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof

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

Pledge night; forced to drink nearly bottle of whiskey; died
Multiple criminal convictions; BGSU settled for nearly $3 million
Takeaway: Universities face significant financial and reputational consequences

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

Blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at fraternity retreat
Fatal head injuries; help delayed
Multiple convictions; fraternity banned from Pennsylvania
Takeaway: Off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous as parties

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University football (2023–2025)

Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Multiple lawsuits; head coach fired and settled wrongful-termination suit
Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs

What These Cases Mean for Pflugerville Families

Common threads: forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, cover-ups. Reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements often follow only after tragedy and litigation. Texas families facing hazing at UT, Texas A&M, UH, or other schools are not alone.

Texas University Focus: Where Pflugerville Families Send Their Kids

University of Texas at Austin: The Closest Major Campus to Pflugerville

Campus & Culture Snapshot for Pflugerville Families
UT Austin is just 20 miles from Pflugerville, making it the most accessible major university for our community. With approximately 60 fraternity/sorority chapters and a strong Greek presence, UT represents both opportunity and risk for Pflugerville students. The campus culture blends academic rigor with deep-seated traditions, some of which have crossed into hazing territory.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels
UT maintains one of Texas’ most transparent hazing reporting systems at hazing.utexas.edu. The university prohibits hazing both on and off campus and provides multiple reporting channels: Dean of Students Office, UT Police Department, and online anonymous reporting. Crucially, UT publishes an annual hazing violations log—a resource few Texas universities provide.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. Sanction: Probation and mandatory hazing-prevention education.
Texas Wranglers (spirit organization): Multiple sanctions for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon: Ongoing scrutiny with a 2024 assault case involving an Australian exchange student who suffered dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and broken nose.

UT’s public log shows patterns of repeated violations, suggesting that probation and education alone don’t always deter hazing behavior.

How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed for Pflugerville Families
Jurisdiction typically involves UT Police Department for on-campus incidents and Austin Police Department for off-campus locations. Civil suits would likely be filed in Travis County courts. The university’s public violation log becomes powerful evidence, showing prior knowledge and patterns.

What UT Students & Parents in Pflugerville Should Do

Document everything using UT’s hazing.utexas.edu resources
Report through multiple channels (Dean of Students, UTPD, online forms)
Preserve social media and group chat evidence immediately
Request prior conduct files for the organization involved
Consult a lawyer experienced in Travis County hazing litigation

Texas A&M University: A Common Choice for Pflugerville Families

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Many Pflugerville families choose Texas A&M for its engineering programs and Corps of Cadets tradition. The Aggie culture emphasizes tradition and loyalty, which can sometimes manifest as harmful hazing in both Greek life and Corps activities.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
Texas A&M prohibits hazing through Student Rules and Corps regulations. Reporting channels include the Student Conduct Office, Corps leadership, and campus police. The university emphasizes “good-faith reporter” protections but has been criticized for handling some cases internally.

Selected Documented Incidents

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Lawsuit (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. Outcome: Fraternity suspended for two years; lawsuit reportedly settled.
Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth. Outcome: Sought over $1 million; A&M stated it handled matter internally.
Kappa Sigma (2023): Ongoing allegations of hazing resulting in rhabdomyolysis—the same muscle-destroying condition suffered by Leonel Bermudez at UH.

How a Texas A&M Case Might Proceed
Brazos County jurisdiction with potential involvement of College Station PD. Corps cases involve unique military-style chain of command issues. Civil cases often target both the organization and university for negligent supervision.

What Texas A&M Families Should Know

Corps hazing often follows different reporting chains
Document both organizational and university responses
Be aware of tight-knit culture that may discourage reporting
Medical evidence is crucial, especially for physical conditioning injuries

University of Houston: Site of the Current Landmark Case

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UH serves as Houston’s primary public university with active Greek life. The current Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates that even urban, commuter-heavy campuses experience severe hazing.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting
UH prohibits hazing through Student Policies with reporting to Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, and UHPD. The university has shown willingness to suspend chapters, as seen with the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu closure.

The Leonel Bermudez Case: What Pflugerville Families Should Understand
This active case demonstrates several critical points:

Severity: Hazing caused rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure
Response: Chapter suspended Nov. 6, 2025; charter surrendered Nov. 14, 2025
Defendants: 13 individuals plus UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, and housing corporation
Medical Evidence: Brown urine, critically high creatine kinase levels, four-day hospitalization
Pattern: Similar to national Pi Kappa Phi incidents at other universities

How UH Cases Proceed
Harris County jurisdiction with potential Houston PD involvement. Civil cases often target multiple entities, as seen in the Bermudez lawsuit seeking $10 million.

Southern Methodist University & Baylor University

SMU Overview: Private university with affluent student body and strong Greek presence. Kappa Alpha Order faced 2017 suspension for paddling and forced drinking. Private status affects transparency but not liability.

Baylor Overview: Religious identity with history of scrutiny over misconduct. Baseball team faced 2020 hazing suspensions. Baylor’s “zero tolerance” policies get tested in practice.

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

As part of our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we maintain detailed records of Greek organizations operating in Texas. For Pflugerville families, understanding this landscape is crucial. Here are examples from our public records directory:

Travis County & Austin-Round Rock Metro Organizations

Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Rho Corp. – Austin, TX 78705 (IRS B83 public filing – house corporation at UT Austin)
Delta Tau Delta – Gamma Iota Chapter – Austin, TX 78705 (Cause IQ metro listing – UT Austin chapter house)
Building Corporation – Alpha Delta Pi (Delta) – Austin, TX 78705 (Cause IQ metro listing – UT Austin chapter property)
Chi Omega Fraternity – EIN 740555581 – Austin, TX 78705 (IRS B83 – house corporation)
Texas Alpha Phi House Corporation – Austin, TX (Cause IQ metro listing – UT Alpha Phi chapter)
Beta Xi House Corp. of Kappa Kappa Gamma – Austin, TX (Cause IQ metro listing – UT chapter house corporation)
2801 San Jacinto Association (Delta Tau Delta support) – Austin, TX 78705 (Cause IQ metro listing – DTD support organization)

Statewide Greek Hubs Relevant to Pflugerville Families

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc. – EIN 133048786 – College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 – Texas A&M chapter)
Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc. – EIN 462267515 – Frisco, TX 75035 (IRS B83 – house corporation)
Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter – EIN 746084905 – Houston, TX 77204 (IRS B83 – UH chapter)
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – EIN 746064445 – Nederland, TX 77627 (IRS B83 – alumni/house corporation)
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – EIN 237279532 – Prairie View, TX 77446 (IRS B83 – Prairie View A&M alumni)

Texas-Wide Snapshot: What the Data Shows

Our analysis of IRS B83 records, Cause IQ metro data, and university rosters reveals:

By the Numbers:

125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations in IRS B83 filings
1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metros per Cause IQ
188 organizations in Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro
154 organizations in Austin-Round Rock metro
510 organizations in Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro

Cross-Validated Brands (IRS + Cause IQ Overlap):

Beta Upsilon Chi – Fort Worth, TX 76244 (both IRS B83 and Cause IQ)
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation – Fort Worth, TX 76147 (both IRS and Cause IQ)
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Nederland, TX 77627 and Houston metro listings
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Multiple Texas locations in both databases

For Pflugerville parents, this means: when hazing occurs, there are often multiple legally identifiable organizations behind the letters—house corporations, alumni chapters, national headquarters—each with potential insurance coverage and liability.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

Why National Histories Matter for Pflugerville Families

When your child joins a fraternity or sorority at UT, Texas A&M, or any Texas campus, they’re joining an organization with a national history. That history matters legally because:

National HQs know the patterns:

They have anti-hazing manuals because they’ve seen deaths and injuries
They track “traditions” that travel from campus to campus
When a Texas chapter repeats what caused tragedy elsewhere, it shows foreseeability

Example: Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

Stone Foltz died at Bowling Green State (2021) from forced drinking
David Bogenberger died at Northern Illinois (2012) from alcohol poisoning
If a Texas Pike chapter uses similar “big/little” drinking traditions, national knew or should have known the risk

Organization Mapping: National Patterns Texas Families Should Know

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) – Present at UT, Texas A&M, UH, SMU

National Pattern: Multiple hazing-related deaths
Texas Incidents: Chemical burns at Texas A&M (2021); assault at UT (2024)
Legal Significance: Pattern shows national knew risks but chapters continue dangerous practices

Pi Kappa Phi – Present at UH (now closed), other Texas campuses

National Pattern: Andrew Coffey died at Florida State (2017)
Texas Incident: Leonel Bermudez at UH (2025)
Legal Significance: Similar forced consumption and physical abuse patterns

Phi Delta Theta – Present at multiple Texas schools

National Pattern: Max Gruver died at LSU (2017)
Legal Significance: “Bible study” drinking games are known risks

Kappa Sigma – Widespread in Texas

National Pattern: Chad Meredith $12.6M verdict in Florida (2001)
Texas Issues: Ongoing rhabdomyolysis allegations at Texas A&M
Legal Significance: Swimming/drinking combinations are recognized dangers

How National Histories Support Civil Cases

When we represent hazing victims, national histories help establish:

Foreseeability: The organization knew or should have known this conduct could cause harm
Negligence: Failed to implement adequate safeguards despite prior incidents
Punitive Damages Basis: Particularly egregious when organizations ignore known risks

For Pflugerville families, this means: your child’s case isn’t viewed in isolation. If the national organization had similar incidents elsewhere, that strengthens your claim.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy

Evidence: The Foundation of Every Strong Case

Digital Communications (Most Critical Today)

GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack: Show planning, threats, coordination
Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok: Often contain boasts or evidence
Recovery: Digital forensics can often retrieve deleted messages
Our video on using your phone to document evidence explains best practices: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

Photos & Videos

Content filmed by members during events
Security camera or doorbell footage at houses
Social media posts showing events or injuries

Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” lists
Emails/texts from officers about activities
National policies and training materials

University Records

Prior conduct files, probation/suspension letters
Incident reports to campus police or conduct offices
Clery Act reports and other disclosures

Medical & Psychological Records

ER and hospitalization records (crucial for rhabdomyolysis cases)
Surgery and rehabilitation notes
Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
Toxicology reports

Witness Testimony

Other pledges, members, roommates, RAs
Former members who quit or were expelled
Bystanders, neighbors, venue staff

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Medical Bills & Future Care

Immediate care (ER, ICU, hospitalization)
Surgeries, ongoing treatment, physical therapy
Long-term care for brain injuries or organ damage
In the Bermudez case: Four-day hospitalization plus ongoing kidney treatment

Lost Earnings / Educational Impact

Missed semesters or withdrawal
Lost scholarships (academic, athletic, Greek-based)
Reduced earning capacity if injuries are permanent

Non-Economic Damages

Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress, trauma, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life
These are often the largest component in serious hazing cases

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of companionship and support
Emotional harm to parents and siblings
- Our wrongful death practice details: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/

Insurance Coverage: The Practical Reality

Fraternities, sororities, and universities typically have insurance, but:

Common Insurance Arguments:

“Hazing is intentional, so it’s excluded”
“This wasn’t a covered activity”
“The policy doesn’t cover this defendant”

Our Insurance Insider Advantage:
Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney. He knows:

How insurers value (and undervalue) claims
Their delay tactics and settlement strategies
How to navigate coverage disputes
- Mr. Peña’s background: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

Statute of Limitations: Time Is Critical

Generally 2 years from injury or death in Texas, but:

“Discovery rule” may extend if harm wasn’t immediately known
In cover-up cases, statute may be tolled (paused)
Our video on Texas statutes of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

Practical Guides & FAQs for Pflugerville Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Hazed

Physical Signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts (especially if excuses don’t add up)
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight loss/gain from food restriction or stress
Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
Chemical burns, rashes, skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family, old friends, non-Greek activities
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive when asked about the organization
Fear of “getting the chapter in trouble”

Academic Red Flags:

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

Digital/Social Behavior:

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

Questions to Ask (Without Confrontation)

“How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
“Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
“Do you feel like you can leave if you want to?”

If You Suspect Hazing

Get medical attention if injured or intoxicated
Document everything (write down what they tell you with dates)
Screenshot texts/group chats immediately
Photograph visible injuries
Do NOT confront the organization directly
Contact an experienced hazing attorney early

For Students: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide
Ask yourself:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would the university or my parents approve if they knew?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this?

If you answered YES to any, it’s likely hazing.

How to Exit Safely

You have the legal right to leave at any time
Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend)
Send email/text to chapter president: “I resign effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure might occur
If you fear retaliation, report to Dean of Students and campus police

Evidence Collection for Students

Screenshots of group chats with timestamps and participant names
Voice memos/recordings (Texas is one-party consent state)
Photos/videos of injuries, locations, objects used
Save everything digital—don’t delete even if embarrassed
Medical documentation—tell providers you were hazed
Witness information—names/contacts of others who saw

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR CASE:

Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence
- Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
- Instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content
Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly
- Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
- Instead: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation
Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms
- Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue; settlements are often far below value
- Instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review
Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer
- Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
- Instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging
Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”
- Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt the case
- Instead: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer
Waiting “to see how the university handles it”
- Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
- Instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately
Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer
- Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
- Instead: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”
- Our video on client mistakes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

Short FAQ for Pflugerville Families

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UT, Texas A&M, UH) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer protections. Every case is fact-specific.

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

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

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from injury or death, but may be extended if harm wasn’t immediately known or in cover-up cases. Time is critical—call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability.

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

About The Manginello Law Firm / Attorney911

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases in Texas

When your Pflugerville 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.

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña)

Former insurance defense attorney at a national firm
Knows exactly how fraternity and university insurers value (and undervalue) claims
Understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”
- Mr. Peña’s background and experience: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello)

One of few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation
Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
Not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams
“We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations. We know how to fight powerful defendants.”
- Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Experience

Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
Experience valuing lifetime care needs (brain injury, permanent disability)
Economist collaboration for accurate damage calculation
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”
- Our wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
- Our criminal defense capability: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/

Investigative Depth for Texas Cases

Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
Experience obtaining hidden evidence (group chats, chapter records, university files)
Texas-specific knowledge of campus cultures and legal venues
“We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Current Active Hazing Litigation

We’re leading the Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi case right now
$10 million lawsuit involving rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
Chapter suspended and closed; case ongoing
This isn’t theory—it’s what we’re doing today for Texas families

Our Video Resources for Pflugerville Families

Educational Videos on Key Topics:

Evidence Preservation: Using your phone to document a case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of Limitations: Texas filing deadlines: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client Mistakes: What to avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Contingency Fees: How “no fee unless we win” works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Call to Action for Pflugerville Families

If hazing has impacted your family, we want to help.

From our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Pflugerville and all of Travis County. Whether your child attends UT Austin just minutes away, Texas A&M, UH, or any Texas campus, we have the experience and resources to help.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

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

Contact Us Today:

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

Spanish-Language Services:

Hablamos Español—Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com
Servicios legales en español disponibles

Final Word for Pflugerville Families:
Whether you’re in Pflugerville proper, surrounding Travis County communities, or anywhere your Texas student attends school, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The organizations behind hazing have experienced lawyers and deep pockets. You deserve representation that matches their resources and exceeds their expertise.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s discuss how we can help your family find answers, accountability, and peace of mind.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Using Phone to Document Evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas Statutes of Limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client Mistakes to Avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How Contingency Fees Work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Website & Practice Areas:

Main Website: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful Death Practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal Defense Practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
Ralph Manginello Profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Lupe Peña Profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

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