π¨ Hazing Lawyer for Red River County, Texas: Protecting Students from Fraternity & Sorority Abuse
Serving Red River County families from Houston, Austin & Beaumont β Nationwide representation for hazing victims
If your child was hazed in Red River County or at a university near Red River County, call Attorney 911 now: 1-888-ATTY-911
β οΈ The Hazing Crisis in Red River County & Northeast Texas
Red River County families send their children to college expecting them to be safe. But the reality is shocking: hazing happens at universities across Texas β including near Red River County. The same fraternities and sororities that have killed students nationwide operate right here in Northeast Texas.
The problem isn’t just at big universities. Hazing occurs at:
- State universities near Red River County
- Private colleges in the region
- Community colleges with Greek organizations
- Military programs and ROTC units
- Sports teams and marching bands
- Honor societies and professional organizations
If your child was hazed in Red River County or at a nearby institution, they have legal rights β and we can help.
π Why Red River County Families Choose Attorney 911 for Hazing Cases
1. We’re Fighting This Battle RIGHT NOW β $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit Against Pi Kappa Phi & University of Houston
This isn’t theoretical. This is happening now.
Our attorneys are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi fraternity and the University of Houston. Our client, Leonel Bermudez, was hospitalized with severe rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure after being subjected to:
- Waterboarding with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
- Forced to perform 500 squats and 100 pushups until he collapsed
- Struck with wooden paddles
- Forced to eat until vomiting, then forced to continue exercising
- Extreme sleep deprivation and psychological torture
This happened in Houston. It could happen in Red River County. The same national fraternities operate at universities near Red River County. The same culture of abuse exists. We are fighting for Red River County families with the same intensity we’re bringing to this case.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys β We Know Their Playbook
Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena are both former insurance defense attorneys. We spent years defending insurance companies and large institutions β including universities and national organizations.
We know exactly how they think. We know their strategies. We know their weaknesses.
When we represent hazing victims in Red River County and across Texas, we’re not just fighting for justice β we’re dismantling the defense strategies that would otherwise be used against you.
This is our unfair advantage for Red River County families.
3. Federal Court Authority β We Can Sue Anywhere in America
While based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide through our federal court authority. If your child was hazed at a university near Red River County, we can represent you regardless of where the incident occurred.
Our federal court admission means:
- We can pursue cases against national fraternities/sororities headquartered anywhere
- We can litigate against universities across state lines
- We can coordinate with local counsel if needed
- We can handle multi-state litigation when multiple victims are involved
Distance is not a barrier. If your child was hazed near Red River County, we will fight for you.
4. Dual-State Bar Admission β Texas AND New York Licensed
Our attorneys are licensed in both Texas and New York. This gives us strategic advantages when pursuing national fraternities and sororities, many of which are headquartered in New York or other states.
Why this matters for Red River County families:
- National organizations can’t hide behind state lines
- We can pursue claims against headquarters directly
- We understand both Texas and national legal landscapes
- We can coordinate with attorneys in other states if needed
5. Proven Track Record in Multi-Million Dollar Cases
We don’t just talk about fighting for victims β we win.
Our firm has secured millions of dollars in compensation for personal injury victims, including:
- BP Texas City explosion litigation (mass tort experience)
- Wrongful death cases (families who lost loved ones)
- Catastrophic injury cases (serious, life-altering injuries)
- High-profile litigation with media attention
These are the same skills we bring to Red River County hazing cases.
6. Hazing-Specific Expertise β We Understand the Culture
Ralph Manginello has direct experience with hazing cases, including:
- Kappa Sigma fraternity litigation
- Texas A&M University hazing incidents
- Rhabdomyolysis injury cases (like our current UH case)
- Wrongful death from hazing activities
We understand Greek life culture. We know how fraternities and sororities operate. We know their hierarchies, their traditions, and their attempts to hide misconduct.
This expertise means:
- We know what evidence to look for
- We know what questions to ask
- We know how to expose the truth
- We know how to build a winning case for Red River County families
7. We Come to Red River County β No Need to Travel
We understand that Red River County families may not be able to travel to Houston for legal representation. That’s why we offer:
- Free video consultations β meet with us from home
- Travel to Red River County β for depositions, meetings, and court appearances
- Local coordination β with Red River County resources when needed
- Remote case management β phone, email, secure portal
We make it easy for Red River County families to get the legal help they need.
8. Contingency Fee Representation β $0 Upfront for Red River County Families
We understand that cost can be a barrier to justice. That’s why we represent hazing victims on a contingency fee basis.
What this means for Red River County families:
- $0 upfront β no retainer, no hourly fees
- We only get paid if we win β if we don’t recover compensation, you owe us nothing
- No financial risk β we take the risk, not you
- Aligned interests β we succeed when you succeed
If we win your case, our fee is a percentage of the recovery. This allows Red River County families to pursue justice without financial stress.
9. Se Habla EspaΓ±ol β Serving Red River County’s Hispanic Community
We provide comprehensive legal services in Spanish for Red River County’s Hispanic community, including:
- Initial consultations in Spanish
- Ongoing case communication in Spanish
- Document translation and explanation
- Courtroom interpretation coordination
- Bilingual staff available
Language should never be a barrier to justice for Red River County families.
π What Counts as Hazing in Texas?
Texas law defines hazing broadly. Many Red River County families don’t realize what their children experienced qualifies as hazing β and is illegal.
Hazing includes ANY activity that:
| Category | Examples | Red River County Application |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Abuse | Paddling, beating, branding, excessive exercise | Forced calisthenics, physical punishment |
| Forced Consumption | Alcohol, food, non-food substances | “Drink this,” “Eat that,” “Take these” |
| Sleep Deprivation | Late-night activities, early morning requirements | Forced to stay up all night, required to wake early |
| Psychological Abuse | Humiliation, degradation, threats | “You’re worthless,” “No one likes you” |
| Sexual Abuse | Forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects | Any unwanted sexual contact or exposure |
| Waterboarding/Drowning | Simulated drowning, water torture | Spraying with hoses, holding underwater |
| Exposure | Cold weather, heat, confined spaces | Forced to be outside in extreme temperatures |
| Servitude | Forced cleaning, driving, errands | “You’re our servant now” |
Important: In Texas, consent is NOT a defense to hazing. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the law still holds the organization liable.
π° What Is My Red River County Hazing Case Worth?
Hazing cases can result in significant compensation for victims and their families. The value depends on several factors:
| Factor | How It Affects Value | Red River County Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Injury Severity | More severe = higher value | Hospitalization, surgery, permanent damage |
| Medical Expenses | Higher bills = higher value | ER visits, specialists, therapy |
| Psychological Harm | PTSD, anxiety, depression increase value | Therapy records, mental health treatment |
| Academic Impact | Disruption to education increases value | Failed courses, lost scholarships, delayed graduation |
| Career Impact | Lost earning potential increases value | Missed internships, damaged reputation |
| Defendant Resources | Deep pockets = higher potential recovery | National fraternities, universities |
| Pattern Evidence | Prior incidents = punitive damages | Other hazing incidents at same organization |
| Egregious Conduct | Torture, sexual abuse = punitive damages | Waterboarding, forced consumption, physical beatings |
Recent Hazing Settlements & Verdicts:
| Case | Outcome | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Foltz (Ohio) | Death from forced alcohol consumption | $10.1 million |
| Maxwell Gruver (Louisiana) | Death from forced drinking | $6.1 million jury verdict |
| Timothy Piazza (Penn State) | Death from forced drinking and falls | $110+ million |
| Adam Oakes (Virginia) | Death from forced drinking | $4+ million settlement |
| Our UH Case | Rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure | $10 million lawsuit pending |
Red River County families: These results are possible for your case too.
ποΈ Who Can Be Held Liable for Red River County Hazing?
When we represent hazing victims from Red River County, we pursue every responsible party, including:
| Defendant | Why They’re Liable | Red River County Application |
|---|---|---|
| Local Chapter | Directly organized and conducted hazing | Fraternity/sorority chapter near Red River County |
| National Organization | Failed to supervise, knew about hazing | Pi Kappa Phi, SAE, others with Red River County chapters |
| University | Failed to protect students, owned property | Any university near Red River County where hazing occurred |
| Housing Corporation | Owned property where hazing occurred | Fraternity/sorority house near Red River County |
| Individual Members | Participated in or facilitated hazing | Chapter officers, active members |
| Alumni | Hosted hazing at their homes | Former members who enabled abuse |
| Coaches/Advisors | Failed to supervise teams/clubs | Sports teams, ROTC, marching bands near Red River County |
We don’t just sue one defendant β we pursue everyone responsible. This maximizes recovery and sends a strong message.
βοΈ Texas Hazing Laws β Your Legal Rights
Texas Education Code Β§ 37.151-37.157 β Anti-Hazing Law
Definition of Hazing (Β§ 37.151):
Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act occurring on or off campus that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in an organization.
Key Provisions for Red River County Families:
| Provision | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Criminal Penalties | Hazing is a crime β up to 1 year in jail for serious bodily injury |
| Organizational Liability | Organizations can be fined up to $10,000 and lose recognition |
| Consent Not a Defense | Even if your child “agreed,” the organization is still liable |
| Reporting Requirements | Universities must report hazing incidents to state authorities |
Important: Texas law applies to all educational institutions near Red River County β not just universities.
π₯ Common Medical Consequences of Hazing
Hazing can cause serious, life-altering injuries. If your child experienced any of these after hazing near Red River County, seek medical attention immediately:
| Condition | Symptoms | Long-Term Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Rhabdomyolysis | Severe muscle pain, weakness, dark urine | Kidney failure, permanent kidney damage |
| Acute Kidney Failure | Decreased urine output, swelling, confusion | Dialysis, kidney transplant, lifelong monitoring |
| Alcohol Poisoning | Confusion, vomiting, seizures, slow breathing | Brain damage, death |
| Traumatic Brain Injury | Headaches, dizziness, memory problems | Permanent cognitive impairment |
| Heat Stroke | High body temperature, nausea, confusion | Organ damage, death |
| Hypothermia | Shivering, slurred speech, weak pulse | Frostbite, cardiac issues |
| Fractures/Broken Bones | Pain, swelling, inability to move | Permanent disability, arthritis |
| PTSD | Flashbacks, anxiety, nightmares | Lifelong mental health treatment |
| Depression/Anxiety | Persistent sadness, hopelessness, panic attacks | Academic decline, social withdrawal |
If your child shows any of these symptoms after hazing near Red River County, seek medical attention immediately β then call us.
π What to Do If Your Child Was Hazed in Red River County
Immediate Steps for Red River County Families:
- Ensure Safety β Remove your child from the dangerous situation immediately
- Seek Medical Attention β Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor
- Preserve Evidence β Save all texts, photos, videos, social media posts
- Document Everything β Write down what happened, when, who was involved
- Get Witness Information β Names and contact info of other victims or witnesses
- Report to Authorities β Consider filing a police report or Title IX complaint
- Contact an Attorney β Call Attorney 911 at 1-888-ATTY-911
- Do NOT talk to the organization, university, or their lawyers without legal counsel
Important: Do not delete anything. Even if you think it’s embarrassing or incriminating, it may be crucial evidence for your case.
π« What NOT to Do After Hazing in Red River County
| Action | Why It’s Dangerous |
|---|---|
| Delete messages or posts | Destruction of evidence β can lead to sanctions |
| Talk to the organization | They will try to control the narrative and minimize liability |
| Sign anything | May waive your legal rights without realizing it |
| Post on social media | Anything you post can be used against you in court |
| Wait to act | Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, statutes of limitations run |
| Assume it’s “not that bad” | What seems minor now may have serious long-term consequences |
Red River County families: The organization and university will try to protect themselves β not you. Get legal representation before you say or do anything.
β³ Statute of Limitations β Act Now
Texas law limits how long you have to file a lawsuit:
| Type of Claim | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Personal Injury | 2 years from date of injury |
| Wrongful Death | 2 years from date of death |
| Minors | May be extended until victim turns 18 |
Important: These deadlines apply to all institutions near Red River County. If you miss the deadline, you lose your right to sue forever.
Don’t wait. Evidence disappears. Memories fade. Witnesses move away. Call us today.
π How We Investigate Red River County Hazing Cases
When we represent hazing victims from Red River County, we conduct comprehensive investigations to build strong cases:
-
Evidence Collection
- Obtain all text messages, social media posts, and communications
- Collect photos and videos from hazing activities
- Secure witness statements from other victims and bystanders
- Obtain pledge manuals, schedules, and organizational documents
-
Medical Documentation
- Obtain complete medical records
- Consult with medical experts about injuries and prognosis
- Document all treatment and expenses
-
Institutional Investigation
- Request all university policies and procedures
- Obtain Greek life oversight records
- Investigate prior hazing incidents at the same organization
- Research national organization’s history of hazing
-
Financial Discovery
- Identify all insurance policies covering the organization
- Determine assets of all defendants
- Calculate economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, etc.)
-
Expert Consultation
- Hazing culture experts
- Medical experts
- Economic experts
- Psychological experts
Our investigation leaves no stone unturned. We build cases that win.
π Universities & Colleges Near Red River County with Greek Life
While Red River County itself is rural, students from the area attend universities throughout Northeast Texas and beyond where hazing occurs. These institutions have Greek organizations with documented hazing risks:
| Institution | Location | Greek Life Presence |
|---|---|---|
| Texas A&M University | College Station, TX | Strong Greek system; multiple hazing incidents |
| University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | Large Greek community; hazing history |
| Texas Tech University | Lubbock, TX | Active Greek life; hazing reports |
| University of North Texas | Denton, TX | Greek organizations present |
| Baylor University | Waco, TX | Greek life with hazing incidents |
| Texas State University | San Marcos, TX | Greek organizations present |
| Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, TX | Greek life with hazing reports |
| Stephen F. Austin State University | Nacogdoches, TX | Greek organizations present |
| Texas A&M University-Commerce | Commerce, TX | Greek life active |
| University of Texas at Tyler | Tyler, TX | Greek organizations present |
| East Texas Baptist University | Marshall, TX | Greek life present |
| LeTourneau University | Longview, TX | Greek organizations present |
Important: This list is not exhaustive. Hazing occurs at institutions of all sizes near Red River County. If your child was hazed at any college or university, we can help.
ποΈ National Fraternities with Chapters Near Red River County
These national organizations have chapters at universities near Red River County β and have paid millions in hazing settlements nationwide:
| Fraternity | Notable Hazing Cases | Red River County Presence |
|---|---|---|
| Pi Kappa Phi | Our $10M UH case; Andrew Coffey death (FSU) | Chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, others |
| Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) | Multiple hazing deaths | Chapters at Texas A&M, others |
| Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) | Stone Foltz death (BGSU) | Chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, others |
| Beta Theta Pi | Timothy Piazza death (Penn State) | Chapters at UT Austin, others |
| Phi Delta Theta | Maxwell Gruver death (LSU) | Chapters at Texas A&M, others |
| Sigma Phi Epsilon | Tucker Hipps death (Clemson) | Chapters at Texas A&M, others |
| Sigma Chi | Multiple hazing incidents | Chapters at UT Austin, others |
| Kappa Sigma | Hazing lawsuits | Chapters at Texas A&M, others |
| Delta Tau Delta | Hazing incidents | Chapters at Texas A&M, others |
| Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) | Danny Santulli case (Missouri) | Chapters at UT Austin, others |
These are the same organizations that have killed students nationwide. They operate near Red River County. They have the same hazing culture we’re fighting in our UH case.
π Red River County Hazing Victims: Call Attorney 911 Now
If your child was hazed in Red River County or at a university near Red River County, call us immediately:
π 1-888-ATTY-911
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com
Available 24/7 for Red River County hazing emergencies
What Happens When You Call:
- Free Consultation β We’ll listen to your story and evaluate your case
- Immediate Guidance β We’ll tell you what to do next to protect your rights
- Evidence Preservation β We’ll help you save crucial evidence
- Case Strategy β We’ll explain your legal options
- No Pressure β You decide whether to move forward
You have nothing to lose. The consultation is free. The call is confidential.
π¬ Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing in Red River County
Q: Is hazing really that serious?
A: YES. Hazing has caused:
- Deaths (multiple students nationwide every year)
- Hospitalizations (like our client in Houston)
- Permanent injuries (kidney failure, brain damage)
- Psychological trauma (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
- Academic failure (lost scholarships, delayed graduation)
Hazing isn’t “boys being boys.” It’s abuse. It’s often criminal. It can destroy lives.
Q: My child said they “consented” to the hazing. Can we still sue?
A: YES. Texas law explicitly states that consent is NOT a defense to hazing.
Texas Education Code Β§ 37.154:
“It is not a defense to prosecution for an offense under this subchapter that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”
Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the organization is still liable.
Q: The fraternity said this was just “tradition.” Is that a defense?
A: NO. “Tradition” is not a legal defense. Organizations cannot claim:
- “This is how we’ve always done it”
- “Everyone goes through it”
- “It builds character”
These arguments don’t hold up in court. Hazing is illegal regardless of “tradition.”
Q: We’re in Red River County. Can you really help us?
A: YES. While we’re based in Houston, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including:
- Red River County residents who were hazed at any university
- Students from Red River County who were hazed anywhere in Texas or America
- Families in Red River County whose children were hazed at nearby universities
We offer:
- Free video consultations
- Travel to Red River County for meetings and depositions
- Remote case management
- Coordination with local resources
Distance is not a barrier. We will fight for Red River County families.
Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?
A: IT DOESN’T MATTER. Texas law covers hazing that occurs on or off campus. If the hazing was related to joining or maintaining membership in an organization, it’s covered.
Examples of off-campus hazing we can pursue:
- Hazing at a member’s apartment
- Hazing at a private residence
- Hazing during a retreat or trip
- Hazing at a bar or restaurant
Q: The university said they didn’t know about the hazing. Are they still liable?
A: YES β in many cases. Universities can be liable for:
- Failure to supervise Greek organizations
- Failure to enforce their own anti-hazing policies
- Failure to investigate reports of hazing
- Premises liability if they own the property where hazing occurred
Many universities “should have known” about hazing based on:
- Prior incidents at their institution
- National patterns of hazing in Greek life
- Complaints from students or parents
- The culture of secrecy in fraternities/sororities
Q: How long will a hazing case take?
A: It varies. Some cases settle within months. Others take years. Factors include:
- Severity of injuries
- Number of defendants
- Willingness of defendants to settle
- Need for litigation
Our UH case is ongoing. We’ll work to resolve your Red River County case as efficiently as possible while maximizing your recovery.
Q: What if my child was hazed but not physically injured?
A: You may still have a case. Hazing can cause:
- Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
- Academic disruption (failed courses, lost scholarships)
- Emotional distress (humiliation, shame, fear)
- Loss of enjoyment of college experience
These damages are compensable. We’ve represented victims with psychological injuries from hazing.
Q: Can we sue the national fraternity organization?
A: YES. National organizations are often the deepest pockets and can be held liable for:
- Failure to supervise local chapters
- Failure to enforce anti-hazing policies
- Knowledge of prior hazing incidents
- Failure to provide adequate training
- Creating a culture that enables hazing
In our UH case, we’re suing both the local chapter and Pi Kappa Phi National.
Q: What if my child is afraid of retaliation?
A: We understand. Many hazing victims fear:
- Social ostracism
- Academic retaliation
- Physical threats
- Cyberbullying
We take these concerns seriously and can:
- Request protective orders
- Advise on safety measures
- Coordinate with university security
- Pursue claims for emotional distress from fear of retaliation
Our client in the UH case is “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution.” We know this fear is real, and we protect our clients.
π Our Promise to Red River County Families
When you choose Attorney 911 to represent your hazing case, we promise:
- Aggressive Representation β We fight hard for every client
- Compassionate Service β We treat your family with respect and care
- Transparent Communication β You’ll always know what’s happening with your case
- No Legal Jargon β We explain everything in plain English
- Maximum Compensation β We pursue every dollar you deserve
- Protection from Retaliation β We stand between you and the institutions that harmed you
- Justice Beyond Money β We work to change the culture that enables hazing
π₯ The Message to Fraternities Near Red River County
To the fraternities operating near Red River County: We are watching.
The same legal strategies that secured $10 million verdicts nationwide apply to your chapters.
Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi β if your chapter operates near Red River County, know that Attorney 911 represents hazing victims across America.
Every national fraternity with chapters near Red River County should review their hazing policies immediately. We have proven these cases can be won.
The Beta Nu chapter at University of Houston? SHUT DOWN. Charter surrendered. Criminal referrals initiated. Our client’s $10 million lawsuit is ongoing.
That’s what happens when you haze in Texas.
π’ Red River County Parents: Talk to Your Children About Hazing
Many Red River County students don’t recognize hazing when it happens. They think:
- “This is just how it’s done”
- “Everyone goes through it”
- “It’s not that bad”
- “I don’t want to be a snitch”
Talk to your children about:
- What hazing looks like (see our list above)
- That it’s not required for friendship or membership
- That they have the right to say no
- That they should report it immediately
- That they won’t get in trouble for reporting
Red River County families: Hazing doesn’t build character. It destroys lives.
π Red River County Families: Take Action Today
If your child was hazed in Red River County or at a university near Red River County, time is critical.
Call Attorney 911 now:
π 1-888-ATTY-911
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com
Free consultation. $0 upfront. We only get paid if we win.
What Red River County Families Are Saying About Attorney 911:
“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer regarding my case.” β Dame Haskett
“They treated me like family. I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” β Ambur Hamilton
“Ralph didn’t have me driving out to court just to reschedule it like my last lawyer did. He saved me a lot of time, money, and very prompt on answering any and all questions I had. Case dismissed.” β Kristyn Hinchliffe
“We’ve been family friends your whole life! Ha. Thank you for trusting us for over 20 years with your family’s legal emergencies.” β Attorney 911 Response to Ariel Strawn
Red River County families: We’re ready to fight for you.
π Serving Red River County, Texas from Our Offices:
Houston Office (Headquarters)
Attorney 911
1177 W Loop S Suite 1600
Houston, TX 77027
(713) 528-9070
Austin Office
Attorney 911
(713) 528-9070
Beaumont Office
Attorney 911
(713) 528-9070
We travel to Red River County for depositions, meetings, and trials.
π Additional Resources for Red River County Families:
- Texas Education Code on Hazing
- StopHazing.org
- HazingPrevention.org
- Clery Center β Campus Safety
- RAINN β Sexual Assault Resources
π¨ Enough is Enough, Red River County
For too long, fraternities and sororities have hidden behind “tradition” while abusing our children.
No more.
If your child was hazed in Red River County or at a university near Red River County, call Attorney 911 now:
π 1-888-ATTY-911
Justice starts with a phone call.