The Complete Legal Guide to Hazing for Smithville, Texas & Bastrop County Families

A Message to Parents in Smithville and Across Bastrop County

Imagine your child returns from college for Thanksgiving break. They seem different—withdrawn, anxious, nursing an unexplained injury. When you ask about their fraternity or sorority, they clam up, change the subject, or give rehearsed answers about “bonding traditions.” Something feels wrong, but they won’t talk about it. This scenario is unfolding right now in Texas homes, including yours here in Smithville.

We are The Manginello Law Firm, PLLD, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™. Right now, we’re actively fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history: representing Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, and 13 fraternity leaders in a $10 million hazing lawsuit. This case is happening in Texas, affecting Texas families, and we’re leading the fight for accountability.

If you’re a parent in Smithville, Bastrop, Elgin, La Grange, or anywhere in Bastrop County, this guide is for you. Whether your child attends a local campus, has chosen Texas A&M in College Station, or is part of the University of Texas at Austin community just 45 minutes away, you deserve to know exactly what hazing looks like in 2025, what the law says, and what your family’s rights are when “campus tradition” becomes abuse.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES IN SMITHVILLE

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

Call 911 for medical emergencies
Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
We provide immediate help – that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™

In the first 48 hours:

Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine”
Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
- Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
- Photograph injuries from multiple angles
- Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
Do NOT:
- Confront the fraternity/sorority
- Sign anything from the university or insurance company
- Post details on public social media
- Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24-48 hours:
Evidence disappears fast in Bastrop County cases—deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses. Universities move quickly to control the narrative. We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

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

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Methods

Hazing is no longer just “boys being boys” or harmless pranks. For Smithville students at Texas universities today, hazing has evolved into sophisticated, often hidden practices designed to break down individuals while avoiding detection. Here’s what’s actually happening:

Digital Hazing & 24/7 Control:

Constant Group Chat Monitoring: Pledges required to respond instantly to GroupMe, WhatsApp, or Discord messages at all hours. Failure means punishment.
Geo-Tracking Demands: Forced use of Find My Friends, Life360, or Snapchat Maps so members can track pledges’ locations.
Social Media Humiliation: Forced TikTok challenges, Instagram story dares, public shaming in digital spaces.

Disguised as “Wellness” or “Tradition”:

Extreme workouts framed as “fitness challenges”
Sleep deprivation called “bonding nights”
Forced drinking games labeled “family traditions”

The Current Texas Case We’re Fighting: Pi Kappa Phi at UH

To understand modern hazing, look no further than the case we’re litigating right now. Leonel Bermudez, a transfer student at the University of Houston, endured what the media has called “waterboarding, forced eating, and physical punishment” during his fall 2025 pledge period to Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter.

According to detailed media coverage from Click2Houston, ABC13, and Hoodline, Bermudez was subjected to:

A “pledge fanny pack” rule requiring him to carry condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices, and other humiliating items 24/7
Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed immediately by sprints
Being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”
Extreme physical workouts including 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion
Cold-weather exposure in underwear at Yellowstone Boulevard Park

The result? Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure. His urine turned brown, he couldn’t stand without help, and he was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels. He now faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.

This isn’t historical—this is happening right now in Texas. The Pi Kappa Phi chapter was suspended November 6, 2025, and members voted to surrender their charter November 14, 2025. UH called the conduct “deeply disturbing” and promised cooperation with law enforcement. We’re holding them accountable.

Who Gets Hazed in 2025?

Smithville families should understand that hazing extends beyond the fraternity stereotype:

Fraternities & Sororities: All councils—IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC (Divine Nine), multicultural
Corps of Cadets & ROTC Programs: Military-style traditions can cross into abuse
Athletic Teams: From football to cheerleading, “team bonding” can become hazing
Spirit Groups & Tradition Organizations: Texas Cowboys, cheer teams, marching bands
Academic & Service Clubs: Even honor societies and service organizations can haze

The common thread? Power imbalance, secrecy, and tradition used to justify harm.

Texas Hazing Law: What Smithville & Bastrop County Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Legal Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws that apply whether your child is at UT Austin, Texas A&M, or any Texas campus. Here’s what Smithville parents need to understand:

Definition (Texas Education Code §37.151):
Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

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

Key Points for Smithville Families:

Location doesn’t matter: On-campus, off-campus, at an Airbnb, at a retreat—all covered
“Consent is NOT a defense” (§37.155): Even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing under Texas law
Good-faith reporter protection (§37.154): Those who report hazing to get help are protected

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: What’s the Difference?

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State):

Purpose: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Potential charges: Hazing, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter in fatal cases
Who decides: District Attorney’s office (in Bastrop County, that’s the 21st Judicial District)
Example: In our UH Pi Kappa Phi case, criminal referrals have been made

Civil Cases (Brought by Victims/Families):

Purpose: Compensation and accountability
Potential claims: Negligence, wrongful death, emotional distress, negligent supervision
Who decides: Your family, with guidance from experienced counsel like Attorney911
Example: Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez seeks compensation for medical care, pain and suffering, and institutional reform

Important: These cases can run simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t needed for a civil case, and vice versa.

Federal Law Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act & More

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires universities receiving federal aid to publicly report hazing incidents by 2026
Strengthens prevention education
Texas schools like UT, Texas A&M, and UH must comply

Title IX & Clery Act:

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

National Hazing Patterns: What Texas Cases Tell Us

Alcohol Poisoning: The Deadliest Pattern

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (Pi Kappa Alpha, 2021):
Forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night. Died from alcohol poisoning. $10 million settlement ($7M from national Pi Kappa Alpha, ~$3M from BGSU).

Max Gruver – LSU (Phi Delta Theta, 2017):
Forced drinking during “Bible study” game. Died with BAC of 0.495%. Led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony.

What This Means for Smithville Families:
The “Big/Little” night, “family tree” drinking games, and bid acceptance parties aren’t harmless traditions—they’re blueprints for tragedy that repeat across campuses, including Texas schools.

Physical & Ritualized Violence

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College (Pi Delta Psi, 2013):
Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled during “glass ceiling” ritual at Pennsylvania retreat. Died from traumatic brain injury. Fraternity banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years—national organization criminally convicted.

What This Means for Smithville Families:
Off-campus retreats and “traditional” physical rituals carry catastrophic risk. National organizations can be held criminally liable, not just local chapters.

Athletic Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025):
Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within the program over years. Multiple lawsuits, head coach fired, confidential settlements. Shows hazing isn’t just Greek life.

The Bottom Line for Bastrop County

These national cases create legal precedents that protect your child. They show:

Patterns are predictable: The same dangerous “traditions” recur
National organizations know the risks: Their anti-hazing policies exist because they’ve faced tragedies
Juries award substantial damages: $10M+ settlements/verdicts are becoming common
Institutions are being held accountable: Universities can’t claim “we didn’t know” anymore

Texas University Focus: Where Smithville Students Attend

Geographic Reality for Smithville Families

Smithville sits in the heart of Central Texas’ education corridor. Your children likely attend:

Primary Destinations for Smithville/Bastrop County Students:

University of Texas at Austin (45 minutes west) – Major Greek life presence
Texas State University (45 minutes south in San Marcos) – Growing Greek system
Texas A&M University (1.5 hours southeast) – Corps of Cadets and strong Greek life
University of Houston (2 hours southeast) – Urban campus with active Greek community
Austin Community College (multiple campuses) – May feed into university Greek life

Local Jurisdictions Matter:

Bastrop County Courts: Could hear cases involving local students or incidents
Travis County Courts: Handle UT Austin cases
Harris County Courts: Handle UH cases (where our active Pi Kappa Phi case is filed)
Interplay: Smithville families may need counsel experienced across multiple Texas jurisdictions

University of Texas at Austin: The Closest Major Greek Hub

For Smithville families, UT Austin is often the closest major university with extensive Greek life. Here’s what you need to know:

UT’s Transparency Advantage:
Unlike many schools, UT maintains a public Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu) that lists organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions. Recent entries include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics. Sanction: Probation and mandatory hazing-prevention education.
Texas Wranglers (spirit group): Sanctioned for alcohol-related hazing and forced activities.
Multiple fraternities: Documented for forced workouts, sleep deprivation, alcohol coercion.

What This Means for Smithville Families:
If your UT student is hazed, there’s likely a public record of prior violations by the same organization. This becomes powerful evidence showing the university and national organization knew or should have known about dangerous patterns.

UT’s Hazing Response Framework:

Reports go to Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, or UTPD
Investigations can lead to probation, suspension, or expulsion
However: University discipline ≠ civil compensation. Many families need both.

Texas A&M University: Corps Culture & Greek Life

Many Bastrop County students choose Texas A&M. The unique Corps of Cadets culture presents specific hazing risks:

Recent A&M Cases:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. Lawsuit sought $1 million. Fraternity suspended for two years.
Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023): Cadet alleged degrading hazing including being bound between beds in simulated sexual position with apple in mouth. Sought over $1 million. A&M stated it handled internally.
Corps Culture: Military-style discipline can cross into abuse under guise of “tradition”

A&M’s Framework:

Student Conduct Office investigates
Corps has separate disciplinary system
Challenge: “Tradition” defenses are common. Experience matters in countering them.

Texas State University: Growing Greek Presence

San Marcos is easily accessible for Smithville families. Texas State’s Greek system has faced issues:

Multiple fraternities on probation for alcohol hazing
Housing corporations and national organizations active in the area
Important: Incidents often occur in off-campus houses in San Marcos rental market

University of Houston: Active Litigation Scene

Our current Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates UH’s serious hazing problem:

UH’s Response in Our Case:

Called conduct “deeply disturbing”
Promised disciplinary action up to expulsion
Cooperating with law enforcement
Yet: The system failed to prevent Bermudez’s hospitalization

UH’s Greek Landscape:

50+ recognized chapters across IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural councils
Off-campus houses in surrounding neighborhoods
Historic issues with Pi Kappa Alpha (2016 lacerated spleen case)

Southern Methodist University & Baylor University

While farther from Smithville, some Bastrop County students attend these private universities:

SMU (Dallas):

Private school with affluent Greek culture
Kappa Alpha Order incident (2017): Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation. Chapter suspended.
Challenge: Private universities have different transparency rules

Baylor (Waco):

Religious identity doesn’t prevent hazing
Baseball hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation
Context: Baylor’s history with institutional response to misconduct

The Greek Ecosystem Around Smithville & Bastrop County

Public Records Reality: Who’s Behind the Letters?

As part of our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we maintain comprehensive data on Greek organizations operating in Texas. For Smithville and Bastrop County families, here are key entities:

Texas-Registered Greek Organizations Relevant to Central Texas:
(From IRS B83 Public Filings – Sample)

Beta Upsilon Chi – EIN: 742911848 – Fort Worth, TX 76244 – Christian fraternity foundation
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation Inc – EIN: 741380362 – Fort Worth, TX 76147 – Kappa Sigma housing foundation
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – EIN: 364091267 – Waco, TX 76710 – Undergraduate chapter
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – EIN: 263170920 – Denton, TX 76204 – Academic honor society (Texas Woman’s University chapter)
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc – EIN: 475370943 – Houston, TX 77204 – Theta Delta chapter
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc – EIN: 521345951 – Nolanville, TX 76559 – Mu Delta Zeta chapter
Kappa Sigma – Mu Gamma Chapter Inc – EIN: 273662583 – Lufkin, TX 75904
Sigma Phi Lambda Inc – EIN: 201237505 – Corinth, TX 76210 – Beta chapter

Greater Austin Metro Area Greek Organizations:
(From Cause IQ Metro Data – Austin-Round Rock Metro has 154 total Greek entities)

Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Rho Corp. – Austin, TX – University of Texas chapter house corporation
Delta Tau Delta – Gamma Iota Chapter – Austin, TX – University of Texas chapter house
Beta Xi House Corp. of Kappa Kappa Gamma – Austin, TX – University of Texas chapter house corporation
Building Corporation – Alpha Delta Pi (Delta) – Austin, TX – University of Texas chapter property
Texas Rho Housing Corporation (ΣAE) – Austin, TX
Texas Alpha Phi House Corporation – Austin, TX – Alpha Phi UT chapter house corp.

What This Data Means for Smithville Families:
Every Greek organization your child encounters is backed by legal entities—house corporations, alumni associations, national headquarters. These entities often hold insurance and assets that can provide compensation when hazing causes harm. Our investigative work starts with identifying all potentially liable entities, not just the individuals directly involved.

National Histories Matter: Pattern Evidence

When we take a hazing case for a Smithville family, we investigate not just what happened to their child, but what that organization’s national history shows:

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

Stone Foltz death (BGSU 2021) – $10M settlement
David Bogenberger death (NIU 2012) – $14M settlement
Multiple chapters suspended for alcohol hazing nationally
Pattern: “Big/Little” nights with forced drinking = foreseeable danger

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

Traumatic brain injury case (University of Alabama 2023)
Chemical burns case (Texas A&M 2021) – $1M lawsuit
Assault case (UT Austin 2024) – $1M+ lawsuit
National pattern: Multiple hazing deaths, leading to elimination of traditional pledge process in 2014

Pi Kappa Phi (Our Current Case):

Andrew Coffey death (Florida State 2017) – alcohol poisoning during Big Brother night
Leonel Bermudez case (UH 2025) – rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, our active litigation
Pattern: Physical endurance tests combined with forced consumption

Why This Matters Legally:
When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous conduct that caused injury or death elsewhere, that shows foreseeability. The national organization can’t claim “we didn’t know this could happen.” This strengthens negligence claims and can support punitive damages.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy & Damages

Evidence Preservation: The First 48 Hours Are Critical

Digital Evidence (Most Important Category):

Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord – screenshot EVERYTHING immediately
Social Media: Instagram stories, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook – content disappears fast
Text Messages: Save entire conversations with timestamps
Photos/Videos: Of injuries, events, locations, participants
Location Data: Geo-tags, check-ins, Find My Friends history

Physical Evidence:

Clothing with stains, tears, or damage
Objects used in hazing (paddles, bottles, props)
Medical records – ER reports, lab results (creatine kinase levels show rhabdomyolysis)
Receipts for forced purchases

Institutional Records (We Obtain via Discovery):

University conduct files on the organization
National fraternity/sorority incident reports
Insurance policies
Training materials and policy manuals

Witness Information:

Names and contact info for other pledges, members, bystanders
Roommates, RAs, friends who noticed changes
Medical providers who treated injuries

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical expenses: ER, hospitalization, surgery, therapy, future care
Lost educational opportunity: Tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships
Lost earning capacity: If injuries affect future career (common with brain or organ damage)
Life care plans: For catastrophic injuries requiring lifelong care

Non-Economic Damages (Compensating Harm):

Physical pain and suffering: From injuries, medical procedures
Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life: Can’t participate in college experience, activities
Reputational harm: Social stigma, digital footprint

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of financial support, companionship, guidance
Parents’ and siblings’ emotional suffering
Therapy for traumatic loss

Punitive Damages (When Available):
To punish especially reckless or malicious conduct. May apply when:

Organization had prior warnings and ignored them
Conduct was particularly cruel or degrading
Attempted cover-up or destruction of evidence
Showed callous indifference to known risks

Strategic Considerations for Smithville Families

Insurance Coverage Fights:
Fraternity and university insurers often argue:

“Hazing is intentional conduct, so insurance doesn’t cover it”
“This was a rogue chapter, not our responsibility”
“The policy excludes assault/battery”

Our insurance insider knowledge (from Mr. Lupe Peña’s defense background) helps navigate these arguments. We identify all potential policies—national organization, local chapter, university, homeowner’s policies of individual members—and fight coverage disputes.

Sovereign Immunity (Public Universities):
UT Austin, Texas A&M, and UH are public institutions with some immunity protections. However:

Exceptions exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct
Title IX claims may waive immunity
Individual employees can be sued in personal capacity
Settlements still happen (BGSU paid $3M despite potential immunity)

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

Discovery rule may extend if harm wasn’t immediately known
Tolling for minors if victim was under 18
Fraudulent concealment if defendants hid evidence
Time is critical – evidence disappears, witnesses graduate

Practical Guides for Smithville Parents, Students & Witnesses

For Parents: Warning Signs & Action Steps

Red Flags Your Child May Be Hazed:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food/water restriction or stress
Sleep deprivation (late-night calls, 3 AM “mandatory” events)
Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family, non-Greek friends
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Financial strain from “fines,” forced purchases, excessive alcohol buying
Constant phone monitoring for group chat demands
Grades dropping from missed classes or exhaustion

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontational):

“How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
“Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“What do new members typically do?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
“Do you feel like you could leave if you wanted to?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets?”

Immediate Action If You Suspect Hazing:

Medical first: If injured or intoxicated, get to ER immediately
Preserve evidence: Screenshot messages, photograph injuries
Document: Write down everything your child tells you (date, time, details)
Contact counsel: Call 1-888-ATTY-911 before confronting organization or university
Medical records: Request copies of all ER/hospital records
Witness list: Names and contact info for others involved

For Students: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Quick Test:

Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?

If You Want to Quit/De-Pledge Safely:

Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend)
Send email/text to chapter president: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
If fear retaliation, report to Dean of Students and campus police immediately
Document any threats or harassment

Texas Law Protects You:

Good-faith reporter immunity: You can’t be punished for calling 911 or seeking medical help
Consent is NOT a defense: Even if you “agreed,” it’s still hazing
You can request no-contact orders through university if harassed after reporting

For Former Members/Witnesses: Coming Forward

If you participated in or witnessed hazing and now regret it:

Your testimony could prevent future harm to other students
You may need your own legal advice about potential exposure
Cooperating with investigations can be an important step toward accountability
We can help navigate your role as witness while protecting your rights

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

7 DEADLY ERRORS SMITHVILLE FAMILIES MAKE:

Letting your child delete messages – Looks like cover-up, destroys crucial evidence
Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly – They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Signing university “release” forms – May waive your right to sue; settlements are often lowball
Posting details on social media – Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Letting your child attend “one last meeting” – They’ll pressure, intimidate, extract damaging statements
Waiting “to see how the university handles it” – Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Talking to insurance adjusters without counsel – Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are minimal

WHAT TO DO INSTEAD:
Preserve evidence → Document everything → Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 → Let us guide all communications

About The Manginello Law Firm / Attorney911: Why We Fight for Smithville Families

Our Texas Hazing Litigation Credentials

When your Smithville family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how universities, national fraternities, and their insurance companies fight back—and how to win anyway.

We’re Currently Fighting the Leonel Bermudez UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:
Right now, we’re leading one of Texas’ most significant hazing lawsuits—the $10 million case against University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi that’s received national media coverage. This isn’t historical. This is active, current litigation demonstrating our commitment to holding powerful institutions accountable.

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña):
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Argue coverage exclusions for “intentional acts”
Set reserves and negotiate settlements

As Mr. Peña says: “We know their playbook because we used to run it. Now we use that knowledge to fight for victims.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):
Our managing partner Ralph Manginello is one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation—taking on a billion-dollar corporation with unlimited legal resources. That same capability applies when suing national fraternities and universities.

Federal Court & HCCLA Credentials:

Admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
Member of Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)—elite criminal defense credential
Understands both civil hazing litigation and criminal hazing charges

Multi-Million Dollar Results:
We’ve recovered millions for clients in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We work with economists, life care planners, and medical experts to build cases that force accountability, not just accept quick, low settlements.

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine

What sets us apart is our data-driven approach. While other firms start from zero, we begin with:

Comprehensive Texas Greek Organization Database:

1,423 fraternities/sororities tracked across 25 Texas metros
125+ Texas-registered Greek entities with EINs, legal names, addresses
Metro-level analysis (154 organizations in Austin-Round Rock metro alone)
Cross-referenced IRS, Cause IQ, and university roster data

Why This Matters for Your Smithville Case:
When we take your case, we already know:

The legal entities behind the organization that hazed your child
Their national history and prior incidents
Insurance carriers and coverage likely available
University disciplinary history with that group
Key individuals and decision-makers

We don’t just react—we investigate proactively, building cases that account for every potentially liable entity from day one.

Spanish-Language Services for Bastrop County Families

Mr. Lupe Peña speaks fluent Spanish (Se habla Español). He can consult with Spanish-speaking families throughout Bastrop County at lupe@atty911.com. Texas’ diverse population deserves access to justice in their preferred language.

Call to Action for Smithville & Bastrop County Families

You Don’t Have to Face This Alone

If hazing has impacted your family—whether your child attends UT Austin, Texas State, Texas A&M, UH, or any Texas campus—we want to help.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

We listen without judgment – Your story matters
Review evidence you have – Photos, texts, medical records
Explain legal options clearly – Criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Discuss realistic timelines – What to expect week by week, month by month
Answer cost questions – Contingency fee means we don’t get paid unless we win
No pressure to hire – Take time to decide what’s right for your family
Complete confidentiality – Everything you tell us is protected

Contact Us Today:

24/7 Emergency Line: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email Ralph Manginello: ralph@atty911.com
Email Lupe Peña (Spanish services): lupe@atty911.com

Serving All of Texas from Our Houston, Austin & Beaumont Offices:
While based in Houston, we serve families throughout Texas, including Smithville, Bastrop, Elgin, La Grange, and all Bastrop County communities. Distance doesn’t prevent justice.

A Final Word to Smithville Parents

The college experience should build your child up, not break them down. When “tradition” becomes abuse, and institutions prioritize reputation over safety, families need advocates who will fight for accountability.

We’ve seen the physical and psychological damage hazing causes. We’ve fought the insurance companies and institutional defendants. We know how to investigate these cases thoroughly and present them compellingly.

If your child has been hazed at any Texas campus, don’t wait until evidence disappears or witnesses scatter. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential consultation. Let us help you get answers, hold the right people accountable, and prevent this from happening to another Bastrop County family.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

NEWS COVERAGE OF THE LEONEL BERMUDEZ / UH PI KAPPA PHI HAZING LAWSUIT

1. Click2Houston (KPRC 2) — “‘Urine was brown’: Pledge sues over severe hazing at University of Houston’s shut down Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”

Published: November 21, 2025 | Authors: Bryce Newberry & Holly Galvan Posey
Key Content: Exclusive KPRC 2 investigation. Attorney Ralph Manginello’s quote “His urine was brown” describes the rhabdomyolysis symptoms. Details hazing locations (Pi Kappa Phi house, Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Boulevard Park). Describes the “pledge fanny pack” humiliation (condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices). Lists physical abuse (sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, vomiting rituals, cold-weather workouts). Confirms medical findings: critically elevated creatine kinase, rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, multi-day hospitalization. Names all 13 defendants including chapter officers. Includes UH statement calling conduct “deeply disturbing” and confirming Nov 14, 2025 charter surrender.
URL: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/

2. ABC13 Eyewitness News (KTRK) — “Waterboarding, forced eating, physical punishment: Lawsuit alleges abuse faced by injured pledge at UH’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity”

Published: November 22, 2025 | Author: Nick Natario
Key Content: Most detailed timeline of hazing events. Sept 16 bid acceptance → Sept-Oct forced dress codes, interviews, overnight chauffeuring → Oct 13 another pledge hog-tied face-down with object in mouth → Nov 3 Bermudez forced through 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats → Nov 6 chapter suspension → Nov 6-9 hospitalization. Describes “waterboarding” tactics (hose spraying in face). Details forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting. Includes Attorney Lupe Peña (male) quote: “If this prevents harm to another person…Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Notes Bermudez declined interviews due to fear of retaliation.
URL: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/

3. Hoodline — “University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Face $10M lawsuit Over Alleged Hazing and Abuse”

Published: November 22, 2025 | Author: Alyssa Ford
Key Content: Emphasizes the $10 million damage demand. Confirms rapid chapter suspension (Nov 6) and Nov 14 charter surrender. Summarizes allegations: extreme workouts, forced overeating, sleep deprivation, simulated waterboarding, humiliating fanny-pack requirements, strict interview schedules, punishment threats. Confirms rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure diagnoses. Notes complaint alleges UH and fraternity leadership knew about systemic hazing and failed to intervene. Includes Attorney911 messaging urging other pledges to come forward.
URL: 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

4. “📱 Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case? | Attorney911 Explains”

Content: Attorney911 educational video explaining how to properly use your smartphone to document evidence after an injury or incident. Covers best practices for photographing scenes, recording witness statements, preserving digital evidence, and what to capture immediately after an accident or hazing incident. Critical for parents and victims who need to preserve evidence before it disappears.
When to Link: When discussing evidence preservation, documentation, or what to do immediately after discovering hazing abuse.
URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

5. “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case? | Attorney911 with Injury Lawyer Ralph Manginello”

Content: Attorney Ralph Manginello explains Texas statutes of limitations for personal injury cases. Covers filing deadlines, exceptions, tolling provisions, and why timing is critical. Essential information for hazing victims and families who need to understand their legal window to take action.
When to Link: When discussing time limits for filing hazing lawsuits, deadlines, or urgency of legal action.
URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

6. “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case | Attorney911 with Ralph Manginello”

Content: Attorney Ralph Manginello identifies common mistakes that can damage or destroy personal injury claims. Covers social media pitfalls, recorded statements to insurance companies, gaps in medical treatment, and other errors that defense attorneys exploit. Vital guidance for hazing victims navigating the legal process.
When to Link: When advising families on what NOT to do after discovering hazing, or when discussing case preparation.
URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

7. “📢 How Do Contingency Fees Work? Injury Lawyer Explains!”

Content: Attorney911 explains the contingency fee model for personal injury cases—no upfront costs, no fee unless the firm wins. Breaks down how fees are calculated, what expenses are covered, and why this model makes justice accessible to families who couldn’t otherwise afford representation against wealthy fraternities and universities.
When to Link: When discussing costs, affordability, or the firm’s “no fee unless we win” policy.
URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

ATTORNEY911 MAIN WEBSITE

8. Attorney911 — Main Website & Contact

Content: Full-service Texas personal injury and criminal defense law firm. 24/7 free consultations. Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont. Practice areas include hazing litigation, wrongful death, catastrophic injury, 18-wheeler accidents, offshore/maritime, construction injuries, refinery/plant accidents, toxic torts, and insurance claims. Contingency fee basis for personal injury cases. Spanish-language services available (Se habla Español). Over 25 years of courtroom experience. Admitted to federal courts in the Southern District of Texas.
When to Link: Always include in CTA sections. Use for “Contact Attorney911 for a free consultation” links.
URL: 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