The Ultimate Texas Hazing Guide for Polk County Families: Protecting Your College Student from Fraternity, Sorority & Campus Abuse

A Polk County Parent’s Worst Nightmare: When Campus “Tradition” Turns to Trauma

It’s a Thursday evening in Livingston, Onalaska, or Corrigan. Your phone buzzes with a call from your child at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, just a short drive up Highway 190. Their voice sounds strange—slurred, exhausted, scared. They’re mumbling about a “pledge event” that got out of hand. They’re apologizing, saying they “had to do it” to be part of the group. You hear shouting in the background, then the call drops. Your heart pounds as you try to call back, reaching only voicemail. The quiet of rural Polk County suddenly feels isolating as you realize your child might be in serious danger hours away at college.

This scenario is not hypothetical for Texas families. Right now, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in the country right here in our state. In late 2025, we filed a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who nearly died after brutal hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity’s Beta Nu chapter. According to detailed media reports from Click2Houston, ABC13, and Hoodline, Bermudez was subjected to:

Humiliating “pledge fanny pack” rules requiring him to carry condoms, sex toys, and nicotine devices
Extreme physical abuse including sprints, bear crawls, forced consumption of milk and hot dogs until vomiting, and being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”
A November 3 “workout” where he was forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion
The medical consequences: He developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure, passed brown urine, and was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels indicating permanent kidney damage risk

This is happening right now in Texas—to a student whose family trusted the University of Houston and a national fraternity to keep him safe. If this can happen at a major university like UH, it can happen anywhere Texas students gather—including at Sam Houston State University, where many Polk County families send their children.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for parents and families in Polk County, Texas—from Livingston to Seven Oaks, from Camden to Leggett. Whether your child attends Sam Houston State just north of us, heads to the University of Houston, Texas A&M, or any other Texas campus, you deserve to know the truth about modern hazing: what it looks like, how Texas law protects (or fails) your child, and what real accountability looks like when institutions fail.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like in Polk County’s World

For families in our close-knit Polk County communities—where everyone knows everyone, and values like respect, hard work, and looking out for your neighbor run deep—the concept of “hazing” might seem like distant college nonsense. You might picture harmless pranks or “boys will be boys” antics. The reality in 2025 is far more sinister, sophisticated, and dangerous.

The Modern Definition: Beyond “Just Tradition”

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against a student for the purpose of joining, maintaining membership in, or gaining status within any organization. Under Texas law (Education Code Chapter 37), it specifically means activities that:

Endanger physical health or safety (beatings, forced drinking, dangerous physical tests)
Adversely affect mental health or safety (extreme humiliation, psychological manipulation, coercion)
Occur on or off campus (location doesn’t matter)
Involve power imbalance where “consent” is meaningless under peer pressure

What Polk County Parents Need to Recognize

Alcohol & Substance Hazing (Most Common & Deadliest):

“Big/Little” nights where pledges are given handles of liquor to finish
Drinking games like “Bible study” where wrong answers mean forced drinking
Lineups where pledges rapidly consume alcohol in succession
Forced drug consumption or mixing unknown substances

Physical Hazing (Increasingly Brutal):

“Smokings” or extreme workouts beyond safe limits (like the 100+ push-ups/500 squats in the UH case)
Paddling or beatings with wooden boards, belts, or hands
Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions” or 3 AM wake-up calls
Food/water deprivation or forced consumption of disgusting substances
Exposure to elements like being left outside in cold weather

Psychological & Digital Hazing (The 24/7 Attack):

Group chat terrorism where pledges must respond instantly to messages at all hours
Social media humiliation through forced TikTok challenges or embarrassing posts
Geolocation tracking via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
Isolation from family and non-Greek friends
Verbal abuse and degradation in “interview” sessions

Sexualized Hazing (Increasingly Prevalent):

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts or positions
Sexual assault or coercion under guise of “initiation”
Recording or photographing compromising situations

Why “Consent” Doesn’t Matter in Our Texas Courts

Here’s what every Polk County parent needs to understand: Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing (Education Code §37.155). The courts recognize what we know instinctively in our communities—when there’s a power imbalance, social pressure, and fear of exclusion, there’s no such thing as true “voluntary” participation. Your child saying “yes” to avoid being ostracized doesn’t make the activity legal or safe.

Texas Hazing Law: What Polk County Families Must Know

The Texas Education Code Framework

For families in Polk County—where cases would be heard in our 411th District Court or potentially federal court—understanding Texas law is critical. Our state has one of the clearer anti-hazing frameworks in the country:

Texas Education Code Chapter 37, Subchapter F (Hazing):

§37.151 Definition: Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers physical/mental health for purposes of initiation/affiliation
§37.152 Penalties:
- Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
- Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
- State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death
§37.153 Organizational Liability: Fraternities/sororities can be fined up to $10,000 per violation
§37.155 Consent Defense: Consent is NOT a defense to hazing charges
§37.154 Reporter Immunity: Good-faith reporters are immune from liability

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Two Paths to Accountability

Criminal Cases (The State’s Role):

Brought by prosecutors (Polk County DA or campus jurisdiction)
Focus: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Common charges: Hazing, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter in deaths
Limitation: Criminal conviction doesn’t automatically mean financial recovery for your family

Civil Cases (Your Family’s Path to Justice):

Brought by victims/families through attorneys like ours
Focus: Compensation and accountability
Can proceed even without criminal charges
Critical advantage: Discovers internal documents, prior incidents, cover-up attempts

Federal Laws Overlaying Texas Campuses

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
Mandates public hazing data by approximately 2026
Strengthens prevention education requirements

Title IX & Clery Act:

When hazing involves sexual harassment/assault, Title IX protections apply
Clery Act requires reporting of certain campus crimes
Both create additional liability avenues for universities

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Polk County Family’s Case?

Individual Students: Those who planned, participated, or covered up hazing
Chapter Leadership: Presidents, pledge educators, risk managers (like the 13 individuals sued in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case)
Local Chapters: The fraternity/sorority chapter as an entity
National Organizations: Headquarters that collect dues, set policies, and supervise chapters
Universities: Schools that knew or should have known about dangerous traditions
Property Owners: Landlords of off-campus houses or event venues
Third Parties: Bars, alcohol providers, security companies

National Hazing Cases: The Patterns That Repeat at Texas Schools

The tragic cases below aren’t just national news—they’re blueprints for what we see repeated at Texas universities. Each demonstrates patterns that Polk County families should recognize.

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern

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

Bid acceptance night with extreme drinking
Multiple falls captured on chapter security cameras
12-hour delay in calling 911
Result: 18 members charged, Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law” enacted

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

“Bible study” drinking game with wrong answers = drinking
BAC of 0.495% at death
Result: Felony hazing convictions, Louisiana’s “Max Gruver Act” making hazing a felony

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

Forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
Result: $10 million settlement ($7M from national Pike, ~$3M from BGSU)

The Physical & Ritualized Violence Pattern

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

Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled in “glass ceiling” ritual
Fatal head injuries, delayed medical care
Result: National fraternity convicted of manslaughter, banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021):

“Pledge dad reveal” night with forced excessive drinking
Suffered severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
Result: Settlements with 22 defendants, ongoing 24/7 care needed

The Athletic Program Hazing Pattern

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025):

Systemic sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Result: Head coach fired, confidential settlements, program overhaul

What These Mean for Polk County Families

These cases establish crucial legal principles that benefit Texas families:

Pattern Evidence: National organizations can be held liable for repeating known dangerous traditions
Foreseeability: If a hazing method caused injury/death elsewhere, it was foreseeable here
Institutional Liability: Universities face massive exposure for ignoring known risks
Punitive Damages: Particularly egregious conduct can warrant punishment beyond compensation

Texas University Focus: Where Polk County Students Actually Attend

Sam Houston State University: Polk County’s Backyard Campus

For families in Livingston, Onalaska, Corrigan, and throughout Polk County, Sam Houston State University in Huntsville is often the most accessible and attended university. Just 45 minutes north via Highway 190, SHSU represents where many of our community’s students pursue higher education.

Campus & Greek Life Snapshot:

Location: Huntsville, Walker County (adjacent to Polk County)
Enrollment: ~21,000 students
Greek Community: Active fraternity/sorority system with IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC councils
Polk County Connection: Hundreds of Polk County students attend annually; many commute from home

SHSU Hazing Policy & Reporting:

Zero-tolerance policy prohibiting all forms of hazing
Reporting channels: Dean of Students Office, SHSU Police Department, online reporting forms
Annual training for student organizations
Transparency: Public disciplinary records available through request

Recent History & Concerns:

2019 Sigma Chi suspension for hazing violations involving alcohol
Ongoing monitoring of fraternity recruitment events
Unique challenge: Proximity to Polk County means hazing may occur closer to home during breaks or weekends

How a Polk County SHSU Hazing Case Proceeds:

Jurisdiction: Walker County courts (278th/12th District) or federal court
Investigating agencies: SHSU PD, Huntsville PD, possibly Polk County Sheriff if incidents occur here
Common venues: Off-campus houses in Huntsville, rural properties in Polk/Walker counties
Our advantage: As Texas hazing specialists, we understand both campus and rural county dynamics

University of Houston: The Urban Contrast

For Polk County families whose students seek big-city experience, UH represents a stark contrast to our rural community—and the site of our current landmark case.

The Leonel Bermudez / Pi Kappa Phi Case (Our Active Litigation):

What happened: Fall 2025 pledge period involving systematic abuse
Locations: Pi Kappa Phi house, Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Boulevard Park
Medical outcome: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization
Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual members
Institutional response: Chapter suspended Nov. 6, charter surrendered Nov. 14, UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”
Media coverage: Click2Houston, ABC13, Hoodline all documented specific abuse details

UH’s Greek Ecosystem:

Size: 50+ fraternity/sorority chapters
Governance: IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, Multicultural Greek Council
History: Multiple hazing incidents despite anti-hazing policies
Our investigation: Reveals pattern of similar conduct across multiple organizations

Texas A&M University: Tradition & Risk

Many Polk County students are drawn to A&M’s tradition and reputation, but that culture carries specific hazing risks.

Corps of Cadets Hazing Issues:

2023 lawsuit: Cadet alleged being bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
Sought over $1 million for physical/psychological injuries
A&M response: Handled “according to established procedures”

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case:

2021 incident: Pledges covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, causing severe chemical burns
Result: Required skin graft surgeries, fraternity suspended, $1 million lawsuit

Texas A&M’s Greek Reality:

120+ fraternity/sorority chapters
History of alcohol-related hazing incidents
Corps traditions that sometimes cross into abuse

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency & Repeated Violations

UT’s public hazing violations database provides unique insight into persistent problems.

Public Hazing Violations (Sample):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members forced to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics → probation
Texas Wranglers (2022): Forced workouts, alcohol hazing → suspension
Multiple organizations: Repeated violations despite sanctions

UT’s System vs. Reality:

Public transparency through hazing.utexas.edu
Repeated violations show policies aren’t deterring conduct
Civil leverage: Public records strengthen negligence claims

Southern Methodist University & Baylor University

SMU’s Affluent Greek Culture:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation → multi-year suspension
Private university dynamics: Less public transparency, more institutional control

Baylor’s Complex History:

Baseball hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation
Religious identity vs. reality: “Zero tolerance” policies with recurring violations
Title IX history: Demonstrates institutional pattern issues

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: What We Know About Organizations Serving Polk County Families

As part of our investigative approach, we maintain what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a comprehensive database of fraternity, sorority, and Greek organizations across Texas. This isn’t theoretical; it’s built from public records, IRS filings, and institutional data. For Polk County families, this means we don’t start from zero when investigating hazing incidents.

Public Records Directory: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Connected to Polk County Students

Why This Matters: When hazing occurs, multiple entities may share liability—not just the students involved. Understanding the organizational landscape helps identify all potentially responsible parties, including housing corporations, alumni associations, and national headquarters that may carry insurance coverage.

Sam Houston State University & East Texas Organizations:

Sigma Chi Fraternity – Zeta Eta Chapter (EIN: 756060974) – PO Box 1403, Commerce, TX 75429 – Chapter at Texas A&M University-Commerce
Kappa Sigma – Mu Gamma Chapter Inc (EIN: 273662583) – 1416 Sleepy Hollow Dr, Lufkin, TX 75904 – East Texas chapter
Alpha Tau Omega Housing Corporation of Eta Iota Chapter (EIN: 300517788) – 316 E Lakewood St, Nacogdoches, TX 75965 – Stephen F. Austin State University
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – Lamar Univ. (EIN: Multiple) – Beaumont, TX – Academic honor society present at multiple East Texas campuses
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Mu Epsilon Chapter (EIN: 364091267) – Beaumont, TX – Undergraduate chapter at Lamar University
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Epsilon Kappa Alumni (EIN: 746064445) – Beaumont, TX – Alumni association for Lamar University chapter
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Beaumont Alumnae – Beaumont, TX – Graduate chapter serving Southeast Texas
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Beaumont Alumni (EIN: 237279532) – Beaumont, TX – Graduate chapter with East Texas presence

Greater Houston Area Organizations (Relevant for UH & Commuting Polk County Students):

Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN: 462267515) – 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035 – Defendant in our active UH case
Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter (EIN: 746084905) – 4300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204 – University of Houston chapter
Delta Phi Upsilon Fraternity Inc (EIN: 800209640) – PO Box 7334, Houston, TX 77248 – Houston-based national organization
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers Inc (EIN: 760221936) – PO Box 271704, Houston, TX 77277 – Professional Greek organization
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – Theta Delta (EIN: 475370943) – 5019 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77204 – University of Houston chapter
Sigma Phi Epsilon Texas Eta (EIN: 824398421) – 1305 FM 359 Rd, Richmond, TX 77406 – Greater Houston area chapter
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Alpha Kappa Omega – Houston, TX – Graduate chapter with statewide influence
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae – Houston, TX – One of largest graduate chapters in Texas

Statewide & National Organizations Present at Multiple Texas Campuses:

Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (EIN: 746064445) – 1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627 – National with multiple Texas chapters
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity (EIN: 237279532) – PO Box 2142, Prairie View, TX 77446 – National with Texas presence
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority (EIN: 364091267) – 1101 Melrose Dr, Waco, TX 76710 – National with Texas chapters
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (Multiple EINs) – Present at 20+ Texas campuses including SHSU, Lamar, SFA
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc (Multiple EINs) – Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, Texas State, UT Tyler, Angelo State
Kappa Sigma Fraternity (EIN: 756067776) – 3128 Waits Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76109 – National with Texas history

Metro Area Statistics from Our Data Engine:

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro: 188 Greek-related organizations tracked
Beaumont-Port Arthur Metro: 22 Greek-related organizations tracked (directly relevant to East Texas)
College Station-Bryan Metro: 42 Greek-related organizations tracked
Austin-Round Rock Metro: 154 Greek-related organizations tracked
Statewide Total: 1,423 fraternity/sorority organizations across 25 Texas metros

What This Means for Polk County Families:
When hazing occurs, we immediately investigate not just the individuals involved, but the entire organizational ecosystem—housing corporations that own properties, alumni associations that fund chapters, national headquarters that set policies, and insurance carriers that provide coverage. This comprehensive approach is how we secured accountability in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case and how we approach every hazing investigation for Texas families.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy & Realistic Expectations for Polk County Families

The Evidence That Wins Cases in 2025

Digital Evidence (Most Critical):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord screenshots with timestamps
Social media: Instagram stories, Snapchat saves, TikTok videos showing events
Deleted message recovery: Digital forensics can often retrieve “disappearing” messages
Location data: Google Maps history, Find My Friends logs, photo geotags
Our UH case example: Group chats planning events, messages discussing “traditions,” photos of injuries shared between members

Physical & Medical Evidence:

Photograph injuries immediately: Multiple angles, with scale (coin/ruler), over several days
Medical records: ER reports, hospitalization records, lab results (like the critical CK levels showing rhabdomyolysis)
Objects used: Paddles, alcohol bottles, “pledge fanny packs,” costumes
Clothing: Unwashed items showing stains, tears, or substances

Documentary Evidence:

University records: Prior complaints, disciplinary actions, Clery reports
National organization files: Risk management reports, membership manuals, incident histories
Property records: Lease agreements, ownership documents for hazing locations
Financial records: Dues payments, alcohol purchases, “fines” collected

Witness Testimony:

Other pledges: Often the most powerful witnesses once they feel safe
Former members: Those who quit or were expelled frequently have crucial information
Roommates, RAs, neighbors: Those who observed changes or heard discussions
Medical providers: Doctors, nurses, EMTs who treated injuries

The Damages Polk County Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical expenses: Past and future treatment, including:
- Emergency care (like Bermudez’s 4-day hospitalization)
- Ongoing therapy (physical, psychological)
- Future medical needs (kidney monitoring, mental health care)
Lost educational costs: Tuition for semesters missed, lost scholarships
Lost earning capacity: If injuries affect future career prospects
Other expenses: Counseling for family, travel for treatment, academic support

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

Physical pain and suffering: From injuries, medical procedures, ongoing pain
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment: Cannot participate in activities they loved
Reputational harm: Social stigma, difficulty transferring schools

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families Who Lose a Child):

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of companionship and guidance
Parental grief and mental anguish
Lost future contributions (financial and emotional)

Punitive Damages (When Conduct Is Egregious):

Purpose: Punish defendants for reckless/willful conduct and deter future hazing
When awarded: Prior warnings ignored, particularly cruel conduct, cover-up attempts
Texas limitations: Statutory caps apply in many cases

Realistic Timeline & Process

Phase 1: Immediate Response (First 48 Hours)

Medical attention, evidence preservation, initial legal consultation
Critical: Do not let your child delete messages or “clean up”

Phase 2: Investigation (Weeks 1-12)

Comprehensive evidence gathering
Witness interviews
Preservation letters to potential defendants
Initial damages assessment

Phase 3: Pre-Litigation (Months 3-9)

Demand package to responsible parties
Negotiation with insurance companies
Mediation attempts
Reality: Most cases settle during this phase

Phase 4: Litigation (If Necessary)

Filing lawsuit (like our UH Pi Kappa Phi case)
Discovery process (document requests, depositions)
Expert witness preparation
Trial preparation
Timeline: 1-3+ years if case goes to trial

Insurance Coverage Realities

Common Insurance Arguments We Counter:

“Hazing is intentional, so coverage is excluded”: We argue negligent supervision claims may still be covered
“The national organization didn’t know”: We show pattern evidence from other chapters
“The university has sovereign immunity”: We identify exceptions and individual liabilities
“Policy limits are exhausted”: We identify additional insurance layers and assets

Our Advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney means we know exactly how insurers value claims, set reserves, and employ delay tactics. We don’t fall for the same strategies we used to implement.

Practical Guides & FAQs: Immediate Help for Polk County Families

For Polk County Parents: Warning Signs & Action Steps

Red Flags Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Physical signs: Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries; extreme exhaustion; weight changes
Behavioral changes: Sudden secrecy about activities; withdrawal from family/friends; personality shifts
Academic decline: Grades dropping, missing classes, losing scholarships
Digital behavior: Constant phone anxiety, deleting messages, geolocation tracking
Financial issues: Unexplained expenses, requests for money, maxed credit cards

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally):

“How are things going with your [fraternity/sorority/team]? Are they respecting your time?”
“What kinds of activities do they have new members do?”
“Is there anything that’s made you uncomfortable or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
“Do you feel like you could leave if you wanted to, or would there be consequences?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets from us or the university?”

Immediate Action Checklist:

Hour 1-6: Medical attention if injured → document everything → call us at 1-888-ATTY-911
Hour 6-24: Preserve digital evidence → photograph injuries → secure physical items
Hour 24-48: Consult experienced hazing attorney → decide on reporting → avoid insurance contact
Week 1: Medical follow-up → evidence backup → strategic planning with counsel

For Polk County Students: Safety & Rights

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment:

Are you being pressured or coerced to do something unsafe/degrading?
Would you do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
Is this activity something you’d hide from your parents or university?
Are older members making you do things they don’t have to do?

If You’re in Immediate Danger:

Call 911 or campus police
Text “HELP” to a trusted friend with your location
Use code words established with family (e.g., “How’s grandma?” = come get me)
Remember: Texas law protects good-faith reporters from liability

Safe Exit Strategies:

Text/email resignation: “I am resigning my membership effective immediately” – no need for in-person meeting
Inform university: Report to Dean of Students for protection from retaliation
Document everything: Screenshots, photos, notes before and after leaving
Seek support: Counseling center, trusted professor, family

Critical Mistakes That Destroy Hazing Cases

1. Deleting Evidence

What happens: Messages are deleted to “avoid trouble”
Why it’s fatal: Looks like cover-up, destroys most powerful evidence
Our advice: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization Directly

What happens: Parents angrily call chapter president
Why it’s fatal: Triggers evidence destruction, witness coaching, defense preparation
Our advice: Document first, let your attorney control communications

3. Signing University “Resolution” Agreements

What happens: University offers quick “internal resolution”
Why it’s fatal: Often includes liability waivers, confidentiality clauses, minimal compensation
Our advice: Never sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting on Social Media

What happens: Family posts details “to warn others”
Why it’s fatal: Defense attorneys screenshot everything, inconsistencies hurt credibility
Our advice: Let your attorney control public messaging

5. Waiting for “Internal Investigation”

What happens: University says “let us handle this first”
Why it’s fatal: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Our advice: Preserve evidence now, consult lawyer immediately

FAQs for Polk County Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes. While public universities have some sovereign immunity protections, exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual employee conduct. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer protections. Each case requires specific analysis—call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case evaluation.

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

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to the activities?”
Consent is not a defense to hazing under Texas law (Education Code §37.155). Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t truly voluntary.

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist for delayed discovery of harm or cover-ups. Time is critical—evidence disappears quickly.

“Will this be public or confidential?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability. Public trials are rare but sometimes necessary for justice.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Many major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, unofficial houses) occurred off-campus.

“How much does this cost?”
We work on contingency fee—no upfront costs, no fee unless we recover money for you. We advance investigation costs and only get paid from successful recovery.

Why Attorney911 for Polk County Hazing Cases: Texas Insurance Insiders Meeting Rural Texas Values

Our Polk County Connection & Statewide Capability

While we’re based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas—including here in Polk County. We understand the unique dynamics of rural Texas communities where:

Values run deep: Respect, accountability, looking out for your neighbor
Education is cherished: Many first-generation college students from our communities
Institutions are trusted: Until they betray that trust
Justice is personal: Not just about money, but accountability and prevention

We’ve built our practice on these same Texas values while developing sophisticated legal strategies for taking on powerful institutions.

The Attorney911 Difference: Why We Win When Others Settle Cheap

1. Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña’s Defense Background)

Former insurance defense attorney at a national firm
Knows exactly how fraternity/university insurers value claims and employ delay tactics
Understands coverage arguments and how to counter them
Result: We don’t accept lowball offers that don’t reflect true case value

2. Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello’s BP Credential)

One of few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation
Proven capability against billion-dollar defendants with unlimited legal budgets
Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
Result: Universities and nationals know we’re not intimidated by their resources

3. Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results

Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
Economist collaboration for lifetime care valuation
Expert network including medical specialists, life care planners, vocational experts
Result: We build cases that force serious settlement discussions

4. Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

HCCLA membership (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association)
Understands interaction between criminal charges and civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure
Result: Comprehensive strategy covering all legal angles

5. Investigative Depth & Resources

Digital forensics experts for recovering deleted messages
Medical expert network for proving causation and damages
Public records researchers for uncovering prior incidents
Result: We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does

6. Spanish-Language Services

Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
Full services available for Hispanic families
Cultural understanding of Texas Latino community dynamics
Result: No language barrier to justice for Polk County’s Hispanic families

Our Active Hazing Litigation: The UH Pi Kappa Phi Case

Right now, we’re proving these capabilities in our active $10 million hazing lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against:

University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents
Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
Beta Nu housing corporation
13 individual fraternity leaders/members

This isn’t theoretical—it’s active, ongoing litigation demonstrating exactly how we investigate, build evidence, and hold powerful institutions accountable. The specific abuses alleged—from the “pledge fanny pack” humiliation to the forced consumption leading to rhabdomyolysis—show the brutal reality of modern hazing that Polk County families need to understand.

Call to Action: Polk County Families, You’re Not Alone

If Hazing Has Touched Your Family

Whether your child attends Sam Houston State just up the road, has ventured to the University of Houston, Texas A&M, or any other Texas campus, and has suffered from hazing abuse:

We want to hear your story.

The isolation you might feel in our rural Polk County communities—watching your child suffer while powerful institutions circle the wagons—ends when you call us.

Your Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation

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根据用户的具体情况（如学生健康受损程度、家庭经济压力）提供针对性的建议。

处理用户输入中的矛盾信息

若用户对同一事件的描述前后不一致，礼貌地请求澄清，例如：”您之前提到孩子是上周受伤的，但现在说是昨天，可以确认一下具体时间吗？这会影响证据保全的建议。”
若用户提供的信息与已知法律事实不符（如对德州法律的理解有误），委婉纠正并附上权威来源，例如：”我理解您的看法，但根据德州教育法典第37章，同意确实不能作为欺凌的抗辩理由。这里有德州立法机构的官方链接供您参考。”

引导用户采取下一步行动

将”立即行动”步骤分解为可操作的小任务，例如：”今天您可以先做两件事：1. 拍下所有伤口的照片 2. 不要删除任何聊天记录。明天我们可以讨论如何联系学校。”
提供多种联系方式的选择，并说明各自优势，例如：”您可以选择打电话，这样我们可以立即讨论紧急步骤；或者发邮件，方便您附上照片和文件。”

管理用户期望

明确说明诉讼的可能时间框架和结果不确定性，例如：”每个案件都不同，但类似案件通常需要数月甚至数年才能解决。我们无法承诺具体金额，但会全力争取最大赔偿。”
解释”不赢不收费”模式的具体运作方式，包括哪些费用可能需要预付。

文化敏感性调整

针对德州农村社区价值观调整沟通方式，强调家庭荣誉、社区责任等契合本地价值观的概念。
对西班牙语用户，确保所有关键信息都有西班牙语版本可用，并了解拉丁裔家庭可能存在的特定文化顾虑。

后续跟进策略

设定明确的后续联系时间点，例如：”无论您是否决定雇佣我们，我建议您三天后再次评估孩子的健康状况，那时我们可以再通话一次。”
提供简单的证据保存清单，方便用户逐步完成。

通过以上方法，我们可以将标准法律咨询转化为对德州家庭真正有意义的支持，在提供专业帮助的同时，建立基于信任和共同价值观的持久关系。# The Ultimate Texas Hazing Guide for Polk County Families: Protecting Your College Student from Fraternity, Sorority & Campus Abuse

A Polk County Parent’s Worst Nightmare: When Campus “Tradition” Turns to Trauma

It’s a quiet evening in the heart of East Texas. Your child left Polk County months ago for college, carrying with them the values we cherish here—hard work, respect, and community. Now, your phone rings with their slurred, frightened voice from a campus hours away. They’re talking about “earning their place” through late-night workouts that leave them vomiting. They mention a “fanny pack” filled with humiliating items they must carry everywhere. They sound exhausted, scared, and completely unlike the confident young person who left Livingston, Onalaska, or Corrigan.

This is not a dramatic exaggeration. It is the exact reality we are fighting right now in Texas courts. As we write this, our firm represents Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who endured brutal hazing that landed him in the hospital with kidney failure. According to media reports from Click2Houston and ABC13, his fall 2025 pledge period with the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter involved forced overeating, extreme workouts of 100+ push-ups and 500 squats, and being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding.” He developed rhabdomyolysis, passed brown urine, and faced permanent kidney damage. This $10 million lawsuit names UH, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders.

If this can happen at a major university like UH, your child at Sam Houston State, Texas A&M, or any Texas campus is not immune. This guide is written specifically for families right here in Polk County—from the piney woods of our rural communities to the shores of Lake Livingston. We will show you what modern hazing really looks like, how Texas law applies to your family, and what real accountability requires when institutions fail our children.

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 directly
- Sign anything from the university or insurance company
- Post details on public social media
- Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like in Polk County’s World

Beyond “Boys Will Be Boys”: The Modern Reality

For families in our close-knit Polk County communities, where hunting, fishing, and Friday night football shape our rhythms, the idea of systematic abuse disguised as “tradition” can seem foreign. But the hazing happening on Texas campuses today has evolved far beyond harmless pranks. It is calculated, often violent, and designed to break down young people through psychological and physical control.

Three Tiers of Hazing Every Polk County Parent Should Recognize

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (The Gateway)
This is where it often starts—behaviors that seem minor but establish dangerous power dynamics:

Servitude requirements: Your child becomes a 24/7 driver, cleaner, or errand-runner for older members
Social isolation: They’re told to cut contact with non-members or need “permission” to socialize
Constant monitoring: Group chat demands at all hours, location tracking through apps
Demeaning identities: Forced to answer to derogatory nicknames or wear identifying items (like the “pledge fanny pack” in the UH case)

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (The Escalation)
When subtle control isn’t enough, behaviors turn openly abusive:

Sleep deprivation: Late-night “meetings,” 3 AM wake-up calls, multi-day events with minimal rest
Food/water manipulation: Being denied meals or forced to consume disgusting substances
Extreme physical exertion: “Workouts” or “smokings” framed as “conditioning” but designed to punish
Public humiliation: Forced embarrassing acts in front of others, verbal abuse sessions

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (Where Lives Are Endangered)
This is what nearly killed Leonel Bermudez at UH:

Forced alcohol consumption: “Big/Little” nights with handles of liquor, drinking games with wrong-answer penalties
Physical beatings: Paddling, punching, kicking—often under the guise of “tradition”
Dangerous physical tests: “Glass ceiling” tackle rituals, extreme endurance challenges
Sexualized abuse: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault
Chemical exposure: Like the Texas A&M SAE case where pledges suffered chemical burns from industrial cleaner

The Digital Dimension: Hazing in the Smartphone Era

What makes modern hazing particularly insidious is its 24/7 digital dimension:

Group chat terrorism: Pledges must respond instantly to messages at all hours or face punishment
Social media coercion: Forced to post humiliating content on Instagram, TikTok, or Snapchat
Evidence creation: Members film hazing “for fun,” creating digital proof while intimidating victims
Location tracking: Apps like Find My Friends used to monitor movements
Rapid evidence destruction: Messages disappear, photos are deleted—unless you act immediately

Why “Consent” is Meaningless Under Texas Law

Here’s the legal truth every Polk County family needs to understand: Texas Education Code §37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. The legislature recognized what we know instinctively—when there’s immense social pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion, a young person’s “yes” isn’t truly voluntary. Your child agreeing to participate to avoid being ostracized doesn’t make the activity legal, safe, or their fault.

Texas Hazing Law: What Polk County Families Must Know

The Texas Education Code Framework: Our State’s Response

Texas has one of the nation’s clearer anti-hazing frameworks. For Polk County families—where cases might be heard in our 411th District Court or federal venues—understanding these laws is crucial:

Key Provisions of Chapter 37, Subchapter F:

§37.151 Definition: Broadly defines hazing as intentional, knowing, or reckless acts that endanger physical/mental health for initiation/affiliation purposes
§37.152 Penalties:
- Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
- Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
- State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death (like the UH case)
§37.153 Organizational Liability: Fraternities/sororities can be fined up to $10,000 per violation
§37.155 Consent Defense: Consent is NOT a defense (critical protection for victims)
§37.154 Reporter Immunity: Good-faith reporters are immune from liability

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding Your Family’s Options

Criminal Cases (The State’s Role):

Brought by prosecutors (Polk County DA or campus jurisdiction)
Focus: Punishment through jail, fines, probation
Limitation: Doesn’t provide financial recovery for your family’s medical bills, trauma, or lost educational investment

Civil Cases (Your Path to Justice & Recovery):

Brought by victims/families through attorneys like us
Focus: Compensation for damages and institutional accountability
Critical advantage: Can proceed even without criminal charges
Our approach: Uses civil discovery to uncover internal documents, prior incidents, and cover-up attempts that criminal cases often miss

Federal Laws That Overlay Texas Campuses

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing transparently
Mandates public hazing data by approximately 2026
Strengthens prevention education requirements

Title IX & Clery Act:

When hazing involves sexual harassment/assault, Title IX protections apply
Clery Act requires reporting of certain campus crimes
Both create additional liability avenues when universities fail in their duties

The Web of Liability: Who Can Be Held Responsible

When we investigate hazing cases for Polk County families, we look at this entire ecosystem:

Individual Students: Those who planned, participated in, or covered up the hazing
Chapter Leadership: Presidents, pledge educators, risk managers (like the 13 individuals sued in our UH Pi Kappa Phi case)
Local Chapters: The fraternity/sorority chapter as a legal entity
National Organizations: Headquarters that collect dues, set policies, and supervise chapters
Universities & Their Governing Boards: Schools that knew or should have known about dangerous traditions
Housing Corporations & Property Owners: Entities that own houses where hazing occurs
Third Parties: Bars, alcohol providers, security companies that enable events

National Hazing Cases: The Patterns That Repeat at Texas Schools

The cases below aren’t just tragic national news—they’re blueprints for what we see repeated at Texas universities. Each establishes legal precedents that benefit Polk County families seeking justice.

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: Texas’ Most Common Killer

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

Bid acceptance night with extreme forced drinking
Multiple falls captured on chapter security cameras
12-hour delay in calling 911
Legal Impact: Dozens of criminal charges, Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law” enacted

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

“Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant drinking
Blood alcohol content of 0.495% at death
Legal Impact: Felony hazing convictions, Louisiana’s “Max Gruver Act” making hazing a felony

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

Forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
Legal Impact: $10 million settlement ($7M from national Pike, ~$3M from BGSU)

The Physical & Ritualized Violence Pattern

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

Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled in “glass ceiling” ritual
Fatal head injuries, delayed medical care
Legal Impact: National fraternity convicted of manslaughter, banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021):

“Pledge dad reveal” night with forced excessive drinking
Suffered severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
Legal Impact: Settlements with 22 defendants, requires 24/7 lifelong care

The Athletic Program Hazing Pattern

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025):

Systemic sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Legal Impact: Head coach fired, confidential settlements, program overhaul

What These Cases Mean for Your Polk County Family

These national precedents establish crucial principles that strengthen Texas cases:

Pattern Evidence Matters: National organizations can be held liable for repeating known dangerous traditions at chapter after chapter
Foreseeability is Key: If a hazing method caused injury or death elsewhere, it was foreseeable here in Texas
Institutional Liability is Real: Universities face massive exposure for ignoring known risks
Punitive Damages Apply: Particularly egregious conduct can warrant punishment beyond compensation

Texas University Focus: Where Polk County Students Actually Attend

Understanding Polk County’s Educational Pipeline

Polk County families typically see their students attend:

Local & Regional: Sam Houston State University (Huntsville), Stephen F. Austin State University (Nacogdoches), Lamar University (Beaumont)
Major State Universities: University of Houston, Texas A&M, University of Texas at Austin
Private Institutions: Baylor University, Southern Methodist University

Each presents unique hazing risks and institutional dynamics. Below, we focus on the campuses most relevant to our community.

Sam Houston State University: Polk County’s Primary University Connection

For families in Livingston, Onalaska, Corrigan, and throughout Polk County, SHSU represents the most accessible and commonly attended university. Just 45 minutes north via Highway 190, it’s where many of our community’s students pursue higher education.

Campus Culture & Greek Life:

Location: Huntsville, Walker County (adjacent to Polk County)
Enrollment: ~21,000 students
Greek Community: Active fraternity/sorority system with IFC, Panhellenic, and NPHC councils
Polk County Connection: Significant commuter population from our county; strong local alumni presence

Recent History & Concerns:

SHSU has faced hazing incidents across various organizations
The university’s proximity to rural Polk County means some hazing activities may occur closer to home during weekends or breaks
As a regional comprehensive university, it may have fewer resources for Greek life oversight compared to flagship institutions

For Polk County Families with Students at SHSU:

Reporting Channels: Dean of Students Office, SHSU Police Department
Jurisdiction: Cases may involve Walker County courts or federal venues
Our Experience: We understand the unique dynamics of regional universities serving rural communities like ours

University of Houston: Site of Our Active Landmark Case

The Leonel Bermudez / Pi Kappa Phi Case (Our Current Litigation):
This isn’t theoretical. We are actively litigating this case as you read this guide. The specifics demonstrate exactly what modern hazing looks like:

Timeline: Fall 2025 pledge period with systematic abuse
Key Locations: Pi Kappa Phi house, Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Boulevard Park
Specific Abuses: “Pledge fanny pack” humiliation, forced consumption leading to vomiting, hose spraying “similar to waterboarding,” 100+ push-ups/500 squats workout
Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, brown urine, 4-day hospitalization
Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual members
Institutional Response: Chapter suspended Nov. 6, charter surrendered Nov. 14, UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”

UH’s Greek Ecosystem & History:

Size: 50+ fraternity/sorority chapters
Governance: IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, Multicultural Greek Council
Pattern Evidence: Multiple hazing incidents despite anti-hazing policies
Our Investigation: Reveals concerning similarities across organizations in methods and cover-up tactics

Texas A&M University: Tradition, Corps Culture & Specific Risks

Corps of Cadets Hazing Issues:
The Corps represents a unique hazing environment with military-style traditions:

2023 Lawsuit: Cadet alleged being bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
Injuries: Physical and psychological trauma requiring treatment
A&M’s Response: Handled “according to established procedures”
Cultural Challenge: Tradition-heavy environment where abuse can be disguised as “discipline”

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case:

2021 Incident: Pledges covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, causing severe chemical burns
Medical Outcome: Required skin graft surgeries
Result: Fraternity suspended, $1 million lawsuit filed
Pattern: Demonstrates escalation beyond alcohol to chemical dangers

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency & Repeated Violations

UT’s public hazing violations database provides unique insight into persistent problems:

Public Hazing Violations (Recent Examples):

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members forced to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics → probation
Texas Wranglers (2022): Forced workouts, alcohol hazing → suspension
Multiple Organizations: Repeated violations despite previous sanctions

The Transparency Paradox:

Strength: Public database at hazing.utexas.edu provides accountability
Weakness: Repeated violations show policies aren’t deterring conduct
Legal Advantage: Public records strengthen negligence claims by showing institutional knowledge

Southern Methodist University & Baylor University: Private Institution Dynamics

SMU’s Affluent Greek Culture:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation → multi-year suspension
Private University Reality: Less public transparency, more institutional control over narratives
Liability Strategy: Requires compelling discovery to uncover internal reports

Baylor’s Complex History:

Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation
Religious Identity Tension: “Zero tolerance” policies with recurring violations
Title IX History: Demonstrates institutional pattern issues with addressing systemic problems

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: What We Know About Organizations Serving Polk County Families

Our firm maintains what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a comprehensive database built from public records, IRS filings, and institutional data. For Polk County families, this means we don’t start from scratch when your child is harmed. We already understand the organizational landscape.

Public Records Directory: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Connected to East Texas Students

Below are verified entities from public records that may be connected to organizations Polk County students encounter. This illustrates the complex web of liability beyond individual students:

East Texas & SHSU-Area Organizations:

Sigma Chi Fraternity – Zeta Eta Chapter (EIN: 756060974) – PO Box 1403, Commerce, TX 75429
Kappa Sigma – Mu Gamma Chapter Inc (EIN: 273662583) – 1416 Sleepy Hollow Dr, Lufkin, TX 75904
Alpha Tau Omega Housing Corporation of Eta Iota Chapter (EIN: 300517788) – 316 E Lakewood St, Nacogdoches, TX 75965
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – Lamar Univ. – Beaumont, TX (multiple EINs)
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Mu Epsilon Chapter (EIN: 364091267) – Beaumont, TX
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Epsilon Kappa Alumni (EIN: 746064445) – Beaumont, TX
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Beaumont Alumnae – Beaumont, TX
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Beaumont Alumni (EIN: 237279532) – Beaumont, TX

Greater Houston Area Organizations (Relevant for Commuting Students):

Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN: 462267515) – 10601 Big Horn Trl, Frisco, TX 75035
Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter (EIN: 746084905) – 4300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – Theta Delta (EIN: 475370943) – 5019 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77204
Sigma Phi Epsilon Texas Eta (EIN: 824398421) – 1305 FM 359 Rd, Richmond, TX 77406

Statewide Organizations Present at Multiple Campuses:

Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (EIN: 746064445) – 1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity (EIN: 237279532) – PO Box 2142, Prairie View, TX 77446
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority (EIN: 364091267) – 1101 Melrose Dr, Waco, TX 76710

What This Organizational Mapping Means for Your Case

When hazing occurs, we investigate this entire ecosystem:

Housing Corporations: Often carry insurance and own properties where hazing occurs
Alumni Associations: May fund activities and influence chapter culture
National Headquarters: Set policies, collect dues, and have ultimate supervision responsibility
Insurance Carriers: Provide coverage that may be accessed for recovery
University Entities: Have duty to supervise recognized organizations

This comprehensive approach is how we built the UH Pi Kappa Phi case and how we approach every investigation for Texas families.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy & Realistic Expectations

The Evidence That Wins Cases in 2025

Digital Evidence (Most Critical):

Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord screenshots with timestamps and participant names visible
Social Media: Instagram stories, Snapchat saves, TikTok videos showing events or discussions
Deleted Message Recovery: Through digital forensics experts we work with regularly
Location Data: Google Maps history, Find My Friends logs, photo geotags
Our UH Case Example: Group chats planning events, messages discussing “traditions,” photos of injuries shared between members

Physical & Medical Evidence:

Injury Photographs: Multiple angles, with scale (coin/ruler), taken over several days to show progression
Medical Records: ER reports, hospitalization records, lab results (like the critical CK levels showing rhabdomyolysis in the UH case)
Objects Used: Paddles, alcohol bottles, “pledge fanny packs,” costumes
Clothing: Unwashed items showing stains, tears, or substances

Documentary Evidence:

University Records: Prior complaints, disciplinary actions, Clery reports obtained through discovery
National Organization Files: Risk management reports, membership manuals, incident histories
Property Records: Lease agreements, ownership documents for hazing locations
Financial Records: Dues payments, alcohol purchases, “fines” collected from pledges

Witness Testimony:

Other Pledges: Often the most powerful witnesses once they feel safe to come forward
Former Members: Those who quit or were expelled frequently have crucial information about patterns
Roommates, RAs, Neighbors: Those who observed changes or heard discussions
Medical Providers: Doctors, nurses, EMTs who treated injuries and documented observations

The Damages Polk County Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical Expenses: Past and future treatment, including emergency care, ongoing therapy, and future medical needs
Lost Educational Costs: Tuition for semesters missed, lost scholarships, delayed graduation impact
Lost Earning Capacity: If injuries affect future career prospects or require vocational rehabilitation
Other Expenses: Counseling for family, travel for treatment, academic support services

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life Impact):

Physical Pain and Suffering: From injuries, medical procedures, ongoing chronic pain
Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation requiring psychological treatment
Loss of Enjoyment: Cannot participate in activities they previously loved
Reputational Harm: Social stigma, difficulty transferring schools, impact on future relationships

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families Who Lose a Child):

Funeral and Burial Costs
Loss of Companionship, Love, and Guidance
Parental Grief and Mental Anguish
Lost Future Contributions (both financial support and emotional presence)

Punitive Damages (When Conduct Is Particularly Egregious):

Purpose: Punish defendants for reckless/willful conduct and deter future hazing
When Awarded: Prior warnings ignored, particularly cruel conduct, organized cover-up attempts
Texas Limitations: Statutory caps apply in many cases but can be overcome with proper evidence

Realistic Timeline & Process

Phase 1: Immediate Response (First 48 Hours)

Medical attention, evidence preservation, initial legal consultation
Critical: Do not let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Phase 2: Investigation (Weeks 1-12)

Comprehensive evidence gathering
Witness interviews and statements
Preservation letters to potential defendants
Initial damages assessment with experts

Phase 3: Pre-Litigation (Months 3-9)

Demand package to responsible parties outlining liability and damages
Negotiation with insurance companies and institutional counsel
Mediation attempts to resolve without litigation
Reality: Most cases settle during this phase if defendants recognize their exposure

Phase 4: Litigation (If Settlement Fails)

Filing lawsuit in appropriate jurisdiction (like our UH Pi Kappa Phi case)
Discovery process: document requests, depositions, expert disclosures
Expert witness preparation and reports
Trial preparation and potentially trial itself
Timeline: 1-3+ years if case goes through full litigation process

Insurance Coverage Realities

Common Insurance Arguments We Regularly Counter:

“Hazing is intentional, so coverage is excluded”: We argue negligent supervision claims may still be covered
“The national organization didn’t know”: We show pattern evidence from other chapters and prior incidents
“The university has sovereign immunity”: We identify exceptions and pursue individual employee liability
“Policy limits are exhausted”: We identify additional insurance layers and attach personal assets

Our Distinct 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 employ delay tactics. We don’t fall for the same strategies we used to implement.

Practical Guides & FAQs: Immediate Help for Polk County Families

For Polk County Parents: Warning Signs & Action Steps

Red Flags Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Signs: Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries; extreme exhaustion; sudden weight changes; sleeping constantly when home
Behavioral Changes: Sudden secrecy about activities; withdrawal from family and old friends; personality shifts (anxiety, depression, irritability)
Academic Decline: Grades dropping precipitously; missing classes; losing scholarships or academic standing
Digital Behavior: Constant phone anxiety, jumping to check messages; deleting message histories; new location tracking apps installed
Financial Issues: Unexplained expenses or withdrawals; requests for money without clear explanation; maxed credit cards

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally):

“How are things going with your [fraternity/sorority/team]? Are they respecting your time for classes and sleep?”
“What kinds of activities do they have new members do? Is anything making you uncomfortable?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
“Do you feel like you could leave if you wanted to, or would there be consequences?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets from us or the university?”

Immediate Action Checklist:

Hour 1-6: Medical attention if injured → document everything → call us at 1-888-ATTY-911
Hour 6-24: Preserve digital evidence → photograph injuries → secure physical items
Hour 24-48: Consult experienced hazing attorney → decide on reporting → avoid insurance contact
Week 1: Medical follow-up → evidence backup → strategic planning with counsel

For Polk County Students: Safety & Rights

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment:

Are you being pressured or coerced to do something unsafe, illegal, or degrading?
Would you do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
Is this activity something you’d hide from your parents, professors, or university officials?
Are older members making you do things they don’t have to do themselves?

If You’re in Immediate Danger:

Call 911 or campus police
Text “HELP” to a trusted friend with your location
Use code words established with family (e.g., “How’s grandma?” could mean “come get me now”)
Remember: Texas law protects good-faith reporters from liability

Safe Exit Strategies:

Text/Email Resignation: “I am resigning my membership effective immediately” – no need for in-person meeting
Inform University Officials: Report to Dean of Students for protection from retaliation
Document Everything: Screenshots, photos, notes before and after leaving
Seek Support: University counseling center, trusted professor, family

Critical Mistakes That Destroy Hazing Cases

1. Deleting Evidence

What Happens: Messages are deleted to “avoid more trouble”
Why It’s Fatal: Looks like cover-up, destroys most powerful evidence, can be obstruction of justice
Our Advice: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization Directly

What Happens: Parents angrily call chapter president or show up at house
Why It’s Fatal: Triggers immediate evidence destruction, witness coaching, defense preparation
Our Advice: Document first, let your attorney control all communications

3. Signing University “Resolution” Agreements

What Happens: University offers quick “internal resolution” with minimal compensation
Why It’s Fatal: Often includes liability waivers, confidentiality clauses that prevent real recovery
Our Advice: Never sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting on Social Media

What Happens: Family posts details “to warn others” or express anger
Why It’s Fatal: Defense attorneys screenshot everything, inconsistencies hurt credibility, can waive privileges
Our Advice: Let your attorney control public messaging

5. Waiting for “Internal Investigation”

What Happens: University says “let us handle this first”
Why It’s Fatal: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate or are coached, statute of limitations runs
Our Advice: Preserve evidence now, consult lawyer immediately

FAQs for Polk County Families

“How long do we have to file a lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist for delayed discovery of harm or fraudulent cover-ups. Time is critical—evidence disappears quickly.

Why Attorney911 for Polk County Hazing Cases

Our Polk County Connection & Texas-Wide Commitment

While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas—including right here in Polk County. We understand the unique values of our rural Texas communities:

Family Comes First: The deep commitment to protecting our children
Accountability Matters: When someone wrongs you, they make it right
Community Responsibility: Looking out for each other, especially the vulnerable
Education as Opportunity: Many first-generation college students from our county

We’ve built our practice on these same Texas values while developing sophisticated legal strategies for taking on powerful institutions.

The Attorney911 Difference: Why We Win When Others Settle Cheap

1. Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña’s Defense Background)
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows:

Exactly how fraternity/university insurers value claims and set reserves
The delay tactics and lowball strategies they employ
How to counter coverage exclusion arguments effectively
Result: We don’t accept early lowball offers that don’t reflect true case value

2. Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello’s BP Credential)
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation. This means:

Proven capability against billion-dollar defendants with unlimited legal budgets
Federal court experience in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
Resource matching to out-investigate and out-prepare institutional defendants
Result: Universities and nationals know we’re not intimidated by their resources

3. Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results
We have a proven track record in complex cases involving:

Wrongful death claims with economist collaboration for lifetime valuation
Catastrophic injury cases requiring life care planning and future needs assessment
Expert networks including medical specialists, vocational experts, and economists
Result: We build cases that force serious settlement discussions

4. Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides:

Understanding of interaction between criminal charges and civil litigation
Ability to advise witnesses and former members with potential criminal exposure
Credibility with prosecutors when criminal charges may be appropriate
Result: Comprehensive strategy covering all legal angles

5. Investigative Depth & Resources
Our investigative approach includes:

Digital forensics experts for recovering deleted messages and metadata
Medical expert network for proving causation and future damages
Public records researchers for uncovering prior incidents and organizational structures
Financial investigators for tracing insurance coverage and assets
Result: We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does

6. Spanish-Language Services

Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
Full legal services available for Spanish-speaking families
Cultural understanding of Texas Latino community dynamics
Result: No language barrier to justice for Polk County’s Hispanic families

Our Active Hazing Litigation: The UH Pi Kappa Phi Case

Right now, we’re proving these capabilities in our active $10 million hazing lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez. This isn’t past history—it’s current, active litigation demonstrating exactly how we:

Investigate systematic abuse patterns
Build comprehensive evidence files
Identify all potentially liable parties
Navigate complex insurance coverage issues
Hold powerful institutions accountable

The specific abuses alleged—from the “pledge fanny pack” humiliation to the forced consumption leading to rhabdomyolysis—show the brutal reality of modern hazing that every Polk County family needs to understand.

Call to Action: Polk County Families, You’re Not Alone

If Hazing Has Touched Your Family

Whether your child attends Sam Houston State just up the road, has ventured to the University of Houston, Texas A&M, or any other Texas campus, and has suffered from hazing abuse:

We want to hear your story.

The isolation you might feel in our rural Polk County communities—watching your child suffer while powerful institutions minimize or cover up—ends when you call us.

Your Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation

When you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911), here’s what happens:

We Listen Without Judgment:

Your story matters, and we give it the attention it deserves
We understand the complex emotions—anger, fear, guilt, confusion
We’ve heard similar stories and know the patterns

We Explain Your Legal Options Clearly:

Criminal reporting possibilities
Civil lawsuit options and realistic expectations
University disciplinary process navigation
Insurance claim considerations

We Review What You Have:

Photos, screenshots, medical records
Your notes and timeline
Correspondence with the university or organization

We Answer Your Questions Honestly:

About costs (contingency fee – we don’t get paid unless you recover)
About timelines (realistic expectations)
About privacy concerns
About what success looks like for your family

No Pressure to Hire Us:

Take time to decide what’s right for your family
Consult with other attorneys if you wish
We provide clear information so you can make an informed choice

Clear 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 Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish

Serving All of Texas from Our Polk County Perspective

While we’re based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas—including right here in Polk County. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Livingston, Onalaska, Corrigan, Seven Oaks, and every community in our county. We understand the values that matter here, and we fight for those values in courtrooms across Texas.

The journey from victim to survivor begins with one call. Let us help your family take that first step toward justice, accountability, and healing.

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