Hazing Litigation Guide for Refugio County Families: Accountability for Fraternity, Sorority, and Campus Abuse in Texas

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You Are Not Alone

Imagine your child, a student from Refugio County, excitedly accepts a bid to join a fraternity or sorority at a Texas university. What begins as promising camaraderie and tradition slowly darkens. The texts come at all hours—mandatory meetings, sudden errands, demands for immediate responses. You notice exhaustion in their voice during weekend calls, unexplained bruises in photos, and a new secrecy about their activities. Then comes the late-night call from a hospital: your child is being treated for acute kidney failure after being forced through extreme workouts, or worse, you learn they’ve been subjected to humiliating rituals, forced drinking, or physical abuse under the guise of “tradition.”

For families in Refugio County and across the Coastal Bend region, this nightmare is not hypothetical. Right now, we are actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history—representing Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. This case proves that severe, debilitating hazing happens here in Texas, at schools where Refugio County students attend, and that powerful institutions can be held accountable.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for parents and families in Refugio County, Ingleside, Woodsboro, and surrounding communities who need to understand the reality of modern hazing, Texas law, and what legal options exist when tradition turns to abuse. Whether your child attends Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, the University of Houston, Texas A&M in College Station, or any Texas campus, the information here applies to your family’s situation.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES – REFUGIO COUNTY FAMILIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

Call 911 for medical emergencies – Do not delay seeking help
Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) – We provide immediate legal guidance
We serve families throughout Texas, including Refugio, San Patricio, and Aransas counties

In the first 48 hours – Critical actions:

Get medical attention immediately – even if injuries seem minor or your child resists
Preserve evidence BEFORE it disappears:
- Screenshot all group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, texts) immediately
- Photograph injuries from multiple angles with good lighting
- Save any physical evidence (clothing, paddles, receipts for forced purchases)
Write down everything – names, dates, locations, what was said, who was present
Do NOT:
- Confront the fraternity/sorority directly (they may destroy evidence)
- Sign anything from the university or an insurance company
- Let your child delete messages or “clean up” their phone
- Post details on public social media

Contact experienced hazing attorneys within 24–48 hours:
Evidence disappears rapidly in hazing cases—group chats get deleted, witnesses are coached, and universities move quickly to control the narrative. As Texas hazing litigation specialists, we know how to preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights from the start. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate, confidential consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like Beyond the Stereotypes

Hazing has evolved far beyond the crude stereotypes of “animal house” pranks. For Refugio County families with children at Texas universities, understanding modern hazing methods is crucial to recognizing danger signs.

A Modern, Texas-Relevant Definition of Hazing

Under Texas law (Education Code Chapter 37), hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act—on or off campus—that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or membership in any organization. Crucially, the victim’s “consent” is not a defense in Texas. This legal recognition acknowledges the intense peer pressure and power imbalances that characterize these situations.

The Four Categories of Modern Hazing – What Refugio County Parents Should Recognize

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing – The Most Deadly Pattern
This remains the leading cause of hazing deaths nationwide and occurs at Texas schools. It includes:

“Big/Little” nights where pledges are given handles of liquor to finish
“Bible study” or trivia drinking games where wrong answers mean forced consumption
Lineups where pledges must chug alcohol within time limits
Forced consumption of dangerous mixtures or unknown substances

2. Physical Hazing and Endurance Abuse
What some groups call “conditioning” or “workouts” can cross into dangerous territory:

Mandatory extreme calisthenics (“smokings”) – hundreds of push-ups, wall sits until collapse
Paddling or beatings with objects
Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions” or mandatory late-night tasks
Exposure to extreme elements – being left outside in cold weather, locked in hot spaces
Food/water deprivation as punishment

3. Psychological and Humiliating Hazing
This category causes profound emotional harm:

Mandatory demeaning costumes or “pledge uniforms” worn in public
Forced carrying of humiliating items (like the “pledge fanny packs” in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case containing condoms, sex toys, and nicotine devices)
Public shaming sessions called “roasts” or “grillings”
Social isolation from non-members and family
Assignment of degrading nicknames or identities

4. Digital Hazing – The 24/7 Pressure Cooker
Smartphones have created new avenues for control:

Group chat monitoring requiring instant responses at all hours
Mandatory location sharing via Find My Friends or Life360
Social media humiliation through forced posts or challenges
Cyberstalking if pledges try to withdraw
Digital “tasks” or dares distributed via messaging apps

Where Hazing Occurs – It’s Not Just “Frat Parties”

Refugio County families should understand that hazing happens across campus organizations:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural councils)
Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs – with their own tradition-heavy cultures
Athletic Teams – from football to cheerleading
Spirit and Tradition Groups (like Texas Cowboys or similar organizations)
Marching Bands and Performing Groups
Academic and Honors Societies

The common thread is power imbalance – older members controlling new members through tradition, social pressure, and fear of exclusion.

The Legal Framework: Texas Hazing Laws and Your Family’s Rights

For Refugio County families navigating a hazing crisis, understanding the legal landscape is essential. Texas has specific statutes, but the practical application determines real accountability.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37 – The Anti-Hazing Statute

§ 37.151 Definition: Hazing includes any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers physical or mental health for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or membership. Location (on or off campus) doesn’t matter.

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties:

Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing without serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing bodily injury
State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability: Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation if they authorized or encouraged hazing, or if officers knew and failed to report it.

§ 37.155 Critical Provision – Consent is Not a Defense: Even if your child “agreed” to participate, that is not a legal defense against hazing charges. Texas law recognizes that true consent doesn’t exist under coercive conditions.

§ 37.154 Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting: Students who report hazing or call for medical help in good faith receive immunity from university discipline and certain criminal liability related to the incident (like underage drinking).

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Pathways

Criminal Cases – State Prosecution:

Brought by district attorneys (in Refugio County, that would be the 36th District Attorney’s Office)
Focus on punishment: jail time, fines, probation
Common charges: hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, manslaughter in fatal cases
Burden of proof: “beyond a reasonable doubt”

Civil Cases – Family Recovery and Accountability:

Brought by victims or their families
Focus on compensation and institutional reform
Common claims: negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability
Burden of proof: “preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not)
Key point: A criminal conviction is NOT required to pursue a civil case

The Federal Overlay: Title IX, Clery Act, and New Federal Requirements

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
This new federal law requires colleges receiving federal funds to:
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Publicly report hazing incidents more transparently
Strengthen prevention programming
Maintain publicly accessible hazing data (phased in through 2026)

Title IX Implications:
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger additional reporting requirements and potential liability for universities.

Clery Act Requirements:
Campus crime statistics must include certain hazing-related incidents, creating paper trails that can support civil claims.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Texas Hazing Case?

1. Individual Students:

Those who planned, executed, or covered up hazing
Officers who knew or should have known

2. Local Chapter/Organization:

The fraternity/sorority as a legal entity
Chapter housing corporations

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

For negligent supervision, training, or failure to address known patterns
Our case against Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters demonstrates this accountability

4. Universities and Governing Boards:

For negligent supervision, deliberate indifference, or premises liability
Both public (UH, Texas A&M) and private (SMU, Baylor) institutions can face claims

5. Third Parties:

Property owners of off-campus houses
Alcohol providers under dram shop laws
Security companies or event organizers

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Precedents Tell Us

The major hazing cases that have made national headlines establish patterns and legal precedents that directly apply to Texas families. Understanding these cases helps Refugio County families recognize that their situation is part of a larger, documented problem.

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern – Repeated Across Campuses

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

20-year-old pledge forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
$10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Chapter president personally ordered to pay $6.5 million

Max Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017):

Pledge forced to participate in “Bible study” drinking game
Died with BAC of 0.495%
$6.1 million verdict for family
Led to Louisiana’s “Max Gruver Act” strengthening hazing penalties

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

Pledge died after “Big Brother Night” with excessive drinking
FSU suspended all Greek life in response
Civil settlement terms confidential but substantial

Physical and Ritualized Hazing – Extreme Endurance and Violence

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

Pledge died during “glass ceiling” ritual at Pocono Mountains retreat
Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled
National fraternity criminally convicted of aggravated assault and manslaughter
Banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

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

Pledge suffered permanent brain damage from alcohol hazing
Now requires 24/7 care, cannot walk, talk, or see
Settlements with 22 defendants, including national fraternity
Non-fatal but catastrophic injury case

Athletic Program Hazing – Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football Program (2023-2025):

Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the team
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Demonstrates hazing extends to major athletic programs

What These National Cases Mean for Refugio County Families

Pattern Recognition: The same behaviors (forced drinking, extreme workouts, humiliation) repeat across campuses and organizations
Institutional Accountability: National fraternities and universities have been held financially and criminally responsible
Substantial Compensation: Multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements establish case values
Legal Precedents: These cases create roadmaps for Texas litigation

Texas Universities: Hazing Realities at Schools Refugio County Families Attend

Refugio County students attend universities across Texas, with many choosing institutions in the Coastal Bend, South Texas, and major state systems. Understanding the hazing landscape at these specific schools is crucial for local families.

University of Houston (UH) – Current Active Litigation

Relevance to Refugio County: Many Coastal Bend students transfer to or attend UH, drawn by its programs and proximity to home. Hazing cases here may involve Refugio County families directly.

The Active Landmark Case – Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi:
We are currently representing Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit alleging severe hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter at UH. This case illustrates exactly what modern hazing looks like:

Specific Hazing Acts Documented:

“Pledge fanny pack” requirement containing condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices
Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting
100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion
Being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”
Cold-weather exposure in underwear
Lying in vomit-soaked grass at Yellowstone Boulevard Park
Another pledge hog-tied face-down with an object in his mouth for over an hour

Medical Catastrophe:

Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown)
Acute kidney failure requiring four-day hospitalization
Passed brown urine, couldn’t stand without help
Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage

Institutional Response:

Pi Kappa Phi national suspended chapter on November 6, 2025
Chapter members voted to surrender charter on November 14, 2025
UH called conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised disciplinary action
All 13 individual members, national headquarters, housing corporation, UH, and UH Board of Regents named as defendants

UH’s Greek Ecosystem – Public Records Context:
From our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine data, we track Greek organizations operating in the Houston metro area, including:

IRS B83 Registered Organizations with Houston Connections:

Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon XI Chapter – EIN 746084905 – Houston, TX 77204
Beta Lambda Chapter – Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc – EIN 990483761 – Houston, TX 77084
Hellenic Professional Society of Texas – EIN 742020182 – Houston, TX 77266
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc – EIN 746084912 – Austin, TX 78714 (statewide operation)

Cause IQ Metro Organizations in Houston Area:

Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Houston, TX
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae – Houston, TX
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Alpha Kappa Omega – Houston, TX
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Beta Sigma Chapter – Houston, TX

What Refugio County Families Should Know About UH:

UH has multiple Greek councils with varying oversight levels
Off-campus houses (like the Culmore Drive residence in our case) present jurisdictional challenges
Harris County courts (where Houston is located) regularly handle hazing litigation
UH’s urban campus means incidents may involve Houston PD alongside UHPD

Texas A&M University System – Including Corpus Christi and Kingsville

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi – Direct Local Relevance:
For many Refugio County families, TAMU-CC is the most accessible university. Its Greek life and organizational culture deserve specific attention.

Campus Greek Presence:

Active fraternity and sorority community
Organizations include nationally recognized groups with hazing histories
Proximity to home doesn’t eliminate hazing risk

Documented Texas A&M System Incidents:
Texas A&M College Station – Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit
Severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
Pledges sued fraternity for $1 million
Chapter suspended for two years

Texas A&M College Station – Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023):

Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts
Bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
Sought over $1 million in damages
University stated it handled matter under its rules

Texas A&M University-Kingsville – Greek Life Context:
From our public records tracking, organizations operating in the Corpus Christi/Kingsville metro include:

IRS B83 Registered Organizations:

Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – Iota Phi Chapter – EIN 831418972 – Corpus Christi, TX 78412
Phi Kappa Phi – Texas A&M Kingsville Chapter – Kingsville, TX (academic honor society)

Cause IQ Metro Organizations in Corpus Christi Area:

Alpha Sigma Phi – Iota Phi Chapter – Corpus Christi, TX (Texas A&M-CC)
Sigma Chi Fraternity – Zeta Pi (TAMUK) – Kingsville, TX
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Corpus Christi Alumnae – founded 1952
Kappa Sigma Fraternity – Rho-Psi Colony – Corpus Christi, TX

What Refugio County Families Should Know About TAMU System:

The Corps of Cadets has its own tradition culture with hazing risks
System-wide policies don’t always prevent local chapter misconduct
Nueces County courts (Corpus Christi) and Kleberg County courts (Kingsville) handle local cases
Being “close to home” doesn’t guarantee safety – hazing happens everywhere

University of Texas at Austin – Transparency and Tradition

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Database:
UT maintains one of Texas’ most transparent hazing reporting systems at hazing.utexas.edu. This publicly accessible database shows Refugio County families exactly which organizations have been disciplined.

Recent UT Hazing Violations Include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter probation and additional education required
Texas Wranglers (Spirit Group): Multiple violations including forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing
Various other fraternities, sororities, and spirit organizations with sanctions

UT Austin’s Greek Ecosystem – Scale and Complexity:
With approximately 60 Greek organizations, UT’s system is vast. Our data tracking includes:

IRS B83 Registered Organizations with Austin Connections:

Chi Omega Fraternity – EIN 740555581 – Austin, TX 78705 (house corporation)
Building Corporation of Delta Chapter of Alpha Delta Pi – EIN 746047117 – Austin, TX 78705
Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Rho Corp. – Austin, TX (from Cause IQ data)
Beta Xi House Corp. of Kappa Kappa Gamma – Austin, TX

What Refugio County Families Should Know About UT:

UT’s transparency allows families to research organizations before joining
Travis County courts (Austin) have extensive experience with hazing litigation
The “party school” reputation doesn’t excuse illegal behavior
Even with public reporting, hazing continues – transparency alone isn’t prevention

Other Texas Universities Refugio County Students Attend

Texas State University, Texas Tech, UTSA, and Others:
Refugio County students attend universities across Texas. Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks organizations statewide, including:

Statewide IRS B83 Examples:

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc – EIN 133048786 – College Station, TX 77845
Sigma Phi Lambda Inc – EIN 201237505 – Corinth, TX 76210 (multiple chapters statewide)
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – EIN 263170920 – Denton, TX 76204 (academic, multiple campuses)
Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation – EIN 371768785 – Missouri City, TX 77459

The Common Thread – National Organizations, Local Harm:
The same national fraternities and sororities that have caused deaths and injuries at schools nationwide operate chapters at Texas universities. These include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (Stone Foltz death – $10M settlement)
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (multiple deaths nationwide, Texas chemical burns case)
Phi Delta Theta (Max Gruver death – $6.1M verdict)
Pi Kappa Phi (Andrew Coffey death, active UH litigation)
And many others with documented hazing histories

Fraternities and Sororities: Understanding National Histories and Local Realities

For Refugio County families, understanding that local chapters are part of national organizations with documented hazing patterns is crucial. These histories establish “foreseeability” – the legal concept that harm was predictable based on prior knowledge.

Why National Histories Matter in Texas Courts

When a Texas chapter repeats behaviors that caused injuries or deaths at other campuses, that pattern evidence can support claims against:

National headquarters for negligent supervision and training
Universities that should have known about national patterns
Insurance companies that may argue harm wasn’t foreseeable

Major National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ) – Multiple Fatalities:

Stone Foltz (BGSU, 2021) – $10M settlement
David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois, 2012) – $14M settlement
Chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, and other Texas schools

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) – “The Deadliest Fraternity”:

Nationwide pattern of alcohol-related deaths
Texas A&M chemical burns case (2021) – $1M lawsuit
UT Austin assault case (2024) – over $1M lawsuit
Active at multiple Texas universities

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ) – Legislative Consequences:

Max Gruver (LSU, 2017) – $6.1M verdict
Led to Louisiana’s “Max Gruver Act” strengthening hazing laws
Chapters throughout Texas

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ) – Current Texas Litigation:

Andrew Coffey (FSU, 2017) – death during “Big Brother” night
Our active UH case – severe hazing causing rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
Demonstrates ongoing pattern despite national “zero tolerance” policies

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine – How We Track Organizations

Our firm maintains a proprietary database of Texas Greek organizations compiled from:

IRS B83 Records – 125+ Texas-Registered Entities:
These tax-exempt organizations include house corporations, alumni chapters, and related entities. Examples relevant to Coastal Bend families:

South Texas IRS B83 Organizations:

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – EIN 364091267 – Waco, TX 76710 (statewide operation)
Alpha Delta – EIN 812724215 – McAllen, TX 78501
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – EIN 746064445 – Nederland, TX 77627 (Southeast Texas)

Cause IQ Metro Data – 1,423 Organizations Across 25 Texas Metros:
This includes organizations in relevant regions:

Corpus Christi Metro: 21 total organizations tracked
Houston Metro: 188 total organizations tracked
San Antonio Metro: 86 total organizations tracked

University Rosters – Verified Chapter Presence:
We cross-reference official university Greek life rosters to establish exactly which organizations operate at specific campuses.

The “Consent” Myth and Power Dynamics

National organizations often argue that pledges “consented” to activities. Texas law explicitly rejects this defense (§ 37.155), and psychological research confirms that true consent cannot exist when there is:

Power imbalance (older members controlling new members)
Peer pressure and fear of exclusion
Tradition and “everyone before you did it” justification
Alcohol impairment reducing judgment

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Realistic Expectations

For Refugio County families considering legal action, understanding how experienced hazing attorneys build cases is essential. This isn’t simple personal injury litigation – it’s complex institutional accountability work.

Critical Evidence in Modern Hazing Cases

1. Digital Communications – The Most Important Evidence:

Group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord) showing planning, execution, and cover-up
Social media posts, stories, and messages documenting events
Deleted message recovery through digital forensics
Location data from phones and apps

2. Photographic and Video Evidence:

Images of injuries over time (bruises evolve – document progression)
Videos from events (often recorded by participants themselves)
Security camera or doorbell footage from houses
Social media videos and photos

3. Medical Documentation:

ER records specifically stating “hazing” as cause of injury
Lab results (creatine kinase levels for rhabdomyolysis, BAC for alcohol cases)
Psychological evaluations for PTSD, depression, anxiety
Ongoing treatment records showing long-term impact

4. Institutional Records:

University conduct files for the organization (obtained via discovery)
National fraternity risk management files
Prior incident reports and disciplinary history
Insurance policies and coverage documents

5. Witness Testimony:

Other pledges who experienced the same hazing
Former members willing to speak about traditions
Roommates, friends, or bystanders who observed effects
Medical providers who treated injuries

The Damages Framework – What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost educational costs (withdrawn semesters, transferred schools)
Lost earning capacity (if injuries affect career prospects)
Therapy and counseling costs

Non-Economic Damages (Substantial But Not Directly Financial):

Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress, humiliation, trauma
Loss of enjoyment of life
Damage to family relationships

Wrongful Death Damages (When Tragedy Strikes):

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

Punitive Damages (When Conduct is Especially Reckless):

To punish defendants and deter future conduct
Available when defendants knew of dangers and acted with gross negligence
Texas has caps in some cases but exceptions for egregious conduct

Realistic Case Timelines and Outcomes

Immediate Actions (First 30 Days):

Evidence preservation demands
Preservation letters to universities and organizations
Initial investigation and witness interviews
Medical documentation collection

Pre-Litigation (1-6 Months):

Comprehensive investigation
Settlement demand preparation
Negotiation with insurers and defense counsel
Many cases settle during this phase

Litigation Phase (6 Months – 2+ Years):

Filing lawsuit if settlement isn’t reached
Discovery process (document requests, depositions)
Expert witness retention
Mediation and settlement conferences
Trial if necessary

What “Success” Looks Like:

Financial recovery for medical costs, pain and suffering, future needs
Institutional accountability – policy changes, chapter closures
Public acknowledgment of harm done
Prevention – making campuses safer for future students

Practical Guide for Refugio County Families: What to Do Now

For Parents: Recognizing Warning Signs and Taking Action

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns
Extreme exhaustion or sleep deprivation
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, withdrawal
Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
Financial requests without clear explanation
Declining academic performance
Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”

How to Talk to Your Child About Concerns:

Choose the right time – private, calm, not rushed
Use open questions: “How are things with [organization]?” not “Are they hazing you?”
Express concern without judgment: “I’ve noticed you seem exhausted and stressed lately.”
Emphasize safety over status: “Your health matters more than any organization.”
Offer unconditional support: “No matter what’s happening, we’re here for you.”

If Your Child Reveals Hazing:

Prioritize medical care – even if injuries seem minor
Preserve evidence immediately – screenshots, photos, notes
Document everything – write down what they tell you with dates
Contact an attorney BEFORE reporting – to protect evidence and rights
Do NOT confront the organization – this triggers evidence destruction

For Students: Safety Planning and Rights Protection

Is This Hazing? Questions to Ask Yourself:

Am I being pressured to do something dangerous or degrading?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity hidden from the university or public?
Are older members making me do things they don’t do themselves?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about activities?

If You Want to Leave the Organization:

Tell someone outside first – parent, trusted friend, advisor
Send written notice – email to chapter president: “I resign my membership effective immediately.”
Do NOT attend “exit meetings” – these are often pressure sessions
Document any retaliation – screenshots, recordings, witness names
Report retaliation immediately – to university, police, and your attorney

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

You cannot be punished for calling 911 or seeking medical help (good-faith immunity)
“Consent” is not a defense – even if you agreed, hazing is still illegal
You can pursue civil claims regardless of criminal proceedings
You have the right to an attorney – and should consult one before talking to investigators

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence “To Protect Someone”:

What families think: “I don’t want my child to get in more trouble”
Reality: Looks like obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
Correct action: Preserve everything – even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization Directly:

What families think: “I’ll give them a piece of my mind”
Reality: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Correct action: Document everything, consult attorney, let counsel handle communication

3. Signing University “Resolution” Agreements:

What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
Reality: You may waive right to sue; settlements are typically far below case value
Correct action: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

4. Posting on Social Media:

What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
Reality: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Correct action: Document privately; let your attorney control public messaging

5. Waiting for University Investigation:

What universities promise: “We’re investigating – let us handle this”
Reality: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
Correct action: Preserve evidence NOW; consult attorney immediately; university process ≠ real accountability

About The Manginello Law Firm / Attorney911: Why Texas Hazing Families Choose Us

Our Refugio County Connection and Statewide Service

While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve families throughout Texas, including Refugio County and the entire Coastal Bend region. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families far from campus, and we have the resources and experience to handle cases wherever they occur in Texas.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

Insurance Insider Advantage – Lupe Peña’s Defense Background:
Mr. Lupe Peña (he/him) spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
Their entire playbook for minimizing payouts

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience – Ralph Manginello’s Track Record:

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation – one of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar defendants
Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
25+ years handling catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases
Not intimidated by national fraternities or university legal teams

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability:

Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
Understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil claims
Ability to advise witnesses and former members with potential exposure

Investigative Depth and Expert Network:

Digital forensics experts for recovering deleted messages
Medical experts specializing in hazing injuries (rhabdomyolysis, TBI, PTSD)
Greek life culture experts explaining power dynamics
Economists for lifetime care and earning capacity calculations

Spanish-Language Services:

Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
Entire consultation process available in Spanish
Critical for serving Texas Hispanic families

Our Active Hazing Litigation – The UH Pi Kappa Phi Case

We’re not just talking about hazing litigation – we’re actively leading one of Texas’ most significant current cases:

Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston, et al:

$10 million lawsuit filed in late 2025
Represents Leonel Bermudez, who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure
Defendants include: UH, UH Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national, housing corporation, 13 individual members
Chapter suspended November 6, 2025 and surrendered charter November 14, 2025
Detailed in media reports by Click2Houston, ABC13, and Hoodline

This case demonstrates our commitment to holding all responsible parties accountable – from individual members to national headquarters to the university itself.

How We Fund Cases – Making Justice Accessible

Contingency Fee Basis:

We don’t get paid unless we recover money for you
No upfront costs or hourly fees
Percentage comes from recovery – if no recovery, no fee
Expenses advanced by firm and repaid from recovery

Why This Matters for Refugio County Families:

Makes high-quality representation accessible regardless of financial situation
Aligns our interests with yours – we only succeed if you succeed
Allows thorough investigation and expert retention that families couldn’t afford upfront

Call to Action for Refugio County Families: Your Next Steps

If Hazing Has Impacted Your Family

Immediate Consultation Available:

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

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

We listen without judgment – tell us what happened at your pace
We review evidence – photos, texts, medical records you have
We explain options – criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
We discuss realistic expectations – timelines, potential outcomes, challenges
No pressure to hire – take time to decide what’s right for your family
Everything is confidential – protected by attorney-client privilege

Servicios en Español Disponibles:

Hablamos Español – consultas completas en español
Contacte a Lupe Peña: lupe@atty911.com
Entendemos las necesidades específicas de familias hispanas

Why Time Is Critical in Hazing Cases

Evidence Disappears Rapidly:

Group chats get deleted within days
Witnesses are coached on what to say
Universities secure their files with legal teams
Physical evidence (paddles, clothing) is destroyed

Statute of Limitations:

Generally 2 years from date of injury in Texas
Can be extended in some circumstances but don’t rely on exceptions
Earlier consultation preserves more options

University Control of Narrative:

Schools begin internal investigations immediately
They control public messaging about “isolated incidents”
Early legal intervention ensures your family’s voice is heard

Final Message to Refugio County Families

Hazing is not “boys will be boys” or “tradition.” It’s illegal, dangerous, and causes lifelong harm. You sent your child to university for education and opportunity, not abuse and trauma.

The institutions involved – fraternities, sororities, universities – have powerful legal teams and insurance companies. They’re counting on families feeling overwhelmed and giving up. Don’t let them win by default.

We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations. We’ve faced national fraternities with unlimited legal budgets. We’ve recovered millions for families whose lives were shattered by institutional failures. We’re not intimidated by powerful defendants – we’re motivated by holding them accountable.

Whether your child attends Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, University of Houston, or any Texas campus, if hazing has impacted your family, you have rights. You deserve answers. You deserve accountability.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s discuss what happened, what your options are, and how we can help your family move forward with justice and dignity.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
Hoodline summary of the $10M UH hazing lawsuit: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos:

Using your phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas statutes of limitations explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes that can ruin your case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

Contact for free consultation: https://attorney911.com

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

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