Hazing at Texas Universities: A Complete Legal Guide for Taylor County Families

When Tradition Turns Toxic: What Taylor County Parents Need to Know About Campus Hazing

As parents in Taylor County, you’ve worked hard to give your children opportunities—perhaps sending them to Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University, or McMurry University here in our community, or watching them head to Texas A&M, UT Austin, the University of Houston, or other campuses across our state. You trust these institutions to keep them safe while they learn and grow. But beneath the surface of campus traditions and Greek letters, a dangerous reality persists: hazing that can cause permanent injury, psychological trauma, and even death.

Right now, in Harris County, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in the country. Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after alleged hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. According to his lawsuit, he was forced through extreme workouts, sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” made to lie in vomit-soaked grass, and required to carry a “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms, sex toys, and nicotine devices. After a November 2025 workout of 100+ push-ups and 500 squats, he passed brown urine and was hospitalized for four days with acute kidney injury. The chapter has been shut down, and we’re pursuing a $10 million lawsuit against UH, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, and 13 fraternity leaders.

This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s part of a pattern we see across Texas—from College Station to Austin, Dallas to Waco. And it affects families right here in Taylor County, whether your child attends local universities or schools hours away.

This comprehensive guide explains what modern hazing really looks like, Texas laws that protect victims, what’s happening at major Texas universities, and how experienced legal counsel can help families pursue accountability and compensation. We write this as Texas-based hazing litigation specialists who have taken on billion-dollar corporations and national fraternities—not as distant observers, but as attorneys actively fighting these cases today.

If This Just Happened to Your Child: Immediate Steps for Taylor County Families

MEDICAL EMERGENCY? CALL 911 FIRST

Within the First 24 Hours:

Get Medical Attention Immediately: Even if your child insists they’re “fine,” hazing injuries like rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown), internal injuries, or alcohol poisoning can be life-threatening. Go to the ER or urgent care.
Preserve Digital Evidence: Screenshot ALL group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage), text messages, social media posts, and emails. Photograph injuries from multiple angles. Do NOT let your child delete anything.
Document Everything: Write down names, dates, locations, and what happened while memories are fresh. Include witness names.
Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney: Evidence disappears quickly. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance before you speak to university officials or insurance companies.

What NOT to Do:

Don’t confront the fraternity/sorority directly (they’ll destroy evidence)
Don’t sign anything from the university or insurance company
Don’t post details on social media
Don’t let your child “tough it out” or downplay injuries

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025: Beyond the Stereotypes

The Three Tiers of Modern Hazing

For Taylor County families who may be unfamiliar with how hazing has evolved, today’s abuses often fall into three escalating categories:

Tier 1: Subtle Hazing (Often Dismissed as “Tradition”)

24/7 group chat monitoring with demands for immediate responses
Being “on call” as a designated driver at all hours
Forced errand-running and cleaning for older members
Social isolation from non-members and family
Mandatory events that interfere with academics or sleep
“Voluntary” activities that are socially mandatory

Tier 2: Harassment Hazing (Causes Measurable Harm)

Sleep deprivation through late-night “meetings” or 3 AM wake-up calls
Verbal abuse, screaming, and humiliation sessions
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpleasant substances
Public embarrassment through degrading costumes or performances
Extreme calisthenics disguised as “workouts” or “conditioning”
Geographic tracking via Find My Friends or Life360

Tier 3: Violent Hazing (Criminal Acts)

Forced alcohol consumption during “Big/Little” nights or drinking games
Physical beatings, paddling, or “branding” with objects
Sexualized hazing: forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault
Dangerous physical tests: blindfolded tackles, extreme exposure to elements
Coerced drug consumption
Kidnapping or restraint for extended periods

The Digital Transformation of Hazing

Today’s hazing leaves digital fingerprints that can become powerful evidence:

Group Chat Evidence: Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord, and Signal contain planning discussions, incriminating photos/videos, and admissions of guilt.
Social Media Documentation: Instagram stories, TikTok challenges, Snapchat snaps, and Facebook posts often capture hazing in real-time.
Deleted Message Recovery: Digital forensics can often retrieve “disappearing” messages and deleted content.
Geo-Tracking Data: Location sharing apps provide timestamps and location evidence.

Texas Hazing Law: What Taylor County Families Need to Know

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Anti-Hazing Statute

Texas has specific laws addressing hazing that apply to all students at public and private institutions:

Definition (Section 37.151): Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act—on or off campus—directed against a student that endangers mental or physical health for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in any organization.

Key Provisions That Matter for Your Case:

“Consent is Not a Defense” (Section 37.155): Even if your child “agreed” to participate, it’s still illegal hazing. Texas law recognizes that power imbalances and peer pressure make true consent impossible.
Criminal Penalties (Section 37.152):
- Class B Misdemeanor: Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine)
- Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing causing injury requiring medical treatment
- State Jail Felony: Hazing causing serious bodily injury or death
Organizational Liability (Section 37.153): Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can face criminal charges and fines up to $10,000 per violation if they authorized, encouraged, or knew about hazing and failed to report it.
Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting (Section 37.154): Students who report hazing or call for medical help in good faith are protected from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

Prosecuted by the state (district attorney)
Focus on punishment: jail time, fines, probation
Require proof “beyond a reasonable doubt”
Examples: hazing charges, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter in fatal cases

Civil Cases:

Filed by victims or families seeking compensation
Focus on financial recovery and accountability
Require proof by “preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not)
Can proceed even if no criminal charges are filed

Most serious hazing cases involve both tracks running simultaneously. A skilled attorney understands how to navigate both systems to maximize accountability.

Federal Laws That Apply

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to publicly report hazing incidents
Mandates hazing prevention education and transparent data reporting
Phased implementation through 2026

Title IX:

Applies when hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based discrimination
Creates additional reporting and investigation requirements for universities
Can provide independent grounds for legal action

Clery Act:

Requires universities to disclose campus crime statistics
Hazing incidents involving assault, alcohol crimes, or other reportable offenses must be included

The Leonel Bermudez Case: A Texas Hazing Case Study That Matters to Taylor County Families

What Happened at University of Houston

In fall 2025, Leonel Bermudez accepted a bid from Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter at the University of Houston. What followed, according to his lawsuit, was a pattern of systematic abuse:

The “Pledge Fanny Pack” Rule:

Required to carry 24/7 containing condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices, and humiliating items
Non-compliance threatened with punishment or expulsion

Physical Hazing at Multiple Locations:

Extreme workouts at Yellowstone Boulevard Park, including sprints, bear crawls, and wheelbarrow races
Cold-weather exposure in underwear
Being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding”
Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate sprints
November 3, 2025: Forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats while reciting creed under threat of expulsion

Additional Disturbing Incidents:

Another pledge hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour
A pledge losing consciousness during early-morning workouts
Sleep deprivation through mandatory overnight chauffeuring duties

The Medical Catastrophe

After the November 3 workout, Bermudez’s condition deteriorated for days until he was passing brown urine and couldn’t stand without help. His mother rushed him to the hospital where he was diagnosed with:

Rhabdomyolysis: Severe skeletal muscle breakdown causing muscle fibers to leak into bloodstream
Acute Kidney Failure: Kidneys unable to filter waste from blood
Hospitalization for four days with critically elevated creatine kinase levels
Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage and long-term physical/psychological harm

Institutional Response and Legal Action

Defendants in the $10 Million Lawsuit:

University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents
Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
Beta Nu housing corporation
13 individual fraternity leaders (chapter president, pledgemaster, sorority relations chair, risk manager, and others)

Chapter Consequences:

November 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters suspends Beta Nu chapter
November 14, 2025: Chapter members vote to surrender their charter

University Statement: UH called the alleged conduct “deeply disturbing,” promised disciplinary measures up to expulsion, and pledged cooperation with law enforcement.

Why This Case Matters to Taylor County Families

It’s Happening Right Now in Texas: This isn’t historical—it’s current litigation against a major Texas university and national fraternity.
Pattern Recognition: The same national organizations (Pi Kappa Phi, SAE, Pi Kappa Alpha) operate at campuses where Taylor County students attend.
Medical Severity: Rhabdomyolysis and kidney damage show how “workouts” can become life-threatening.
Multiple Liable Parties: The lawsuit targets not just individual students but the national organization, housing corporation, and university—maximizing potential recovery.

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: Organizations Affecting Taylor County Students

Public Records Directory: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations

Through our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, we maintain detailed data on Greek organizations operating across Texas. This investigative work helps us identify all potentially liable entities when hazing occurs.

Taylor County & Abilene Metro Area Organizations:

Recorded in IRS B83 public filings as Texas-registered Greek organizations:

Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – Texas Tech Health Sciences Center Chapter (EIN: 820644459) – Clyde, TX – Academic honor society
Psi Chi – McMurry University Chapter (Location: Abilene, TX) – Psychology honor society
Psi Chi – Hardin-Simmons University Chapter (Location: Abilene, TX) – Psychology honor society
Alpha Phi Omega – Omicron Delta Chapter (Location: Abilene, TX) – Service fraternity at Abilene Christian University
Alpha Phi Omega – Eta Chi Chapter (Location: Abilene, TX) – Service fraternity at Hardin-Simmons University

Major Texas Greek Hubs Relevant to Taylor County Families:

Organizations with chapters at universities where Taylor County students commonly attend:

Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc (EIN: 133048786) – College Station, TX 77845 – Texas A&M University chapter
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (EIN: 746064445) – Nederland, TX 77627 – Epsilon Kappa Chapter (operates at multiple Texas campuses)
Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Texas Sigma Incorporated (EIN: 882755427) – San Marcos, TX 78666 – Texas State University chapter
Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN: 462267515) – Frisco, TX 75035 – Entity associated with Pi Kappa Phi chapters
Texas Rho Chapter of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity (EIN: 741942292) – Waco, TX 76706 – Baylor University chapter

Texas-Wide Snapshot:

1,423 fraternities, sororities, and Greek organizations operate across 25 Texas metros
510 organizations in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro
188 organizations in the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro
154 organizations in the Austin-Round Rock metro
59 organizations in the Lubbock metro
42 organizations in the College Station-Bryan metro

Why This Directory Matters for Your Case

When hazing occurs, multiple entities may share liability:

Local Chapter: The on-campus organization directly conducting hazing
Chapter Housing Corporation: Property-owning entity (often with separate insurance)
Alumni Associations: May fund or oversee chapter activities
National Headquarters: Sets policies, collects dues, provides oversight
Honor Societies/Professional Organizations: Even academic groups can haze

Our ability to identify these entities quickly gives us a critical investigative advantage in building your case.

Where Taylor County Families Send Their Children: Campus Connections and Risks

Local Universities with Greek Life

Abilene Christian University:

Located right here in Taylor County
Active Greek community with fraternities and sororities
University policies prohibit hazing but require vigilance

Hardin-Simmons University:

Taylor County institution with student organizations
All groups subject to university conduct policies
Smaller Greek system but not immune to hazing risks

McMurry University:

Local campus serving Taylor County families
Campus organizations must comply with anti-hazing policies
Close-knit community can sometimes enable normalized hazing

Major Statewide Universities Attended by Taylor County Students

Texas A&M University (College Station):

Many Taylor County students attend A&M
Corps of Cadets has faced hazing allegations including:
- 2023 lawsuit alleging cadet bound in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
- Tradition-heavy environment with documented abuse history
Sigma Alpha Epsilon chemical burns case:
- Pledges allegedly doused with industrial-strength cleaner causing severe burns requiring skin grafts
- $1 million lawsuit filed against chapter
Active Greek life with approximately 60+ fraternities and sororities

University of Texas at Austin:

Popular choice for Taylor County students
Maintains public hazing violations log at hazing.utexas.edu
Documented incidents include:
- Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members forced to consume milk and perform extreme calisthenics
- Texas Wranglers spirit organization: Sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing
- Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Australian exchange student allegedly assaulted, suffering dislocated leg, broken nose, and fractured tibia
Relatively transparent compared to other schools

University of Houston:

Major urban campus attracting Taylor County students
Scene of the ongoing Leonel Bermudez/Pi Kappa Phi case
Active Greek system with multiple councils:
- Interfraternity Council (17+ fraternities)
- Houston Panhellenic Council (6 sororities)
- Multicultural Greek Council
- National Pan-Hellenic Council (Divine Nine)

Baylor University (Waco):

Private Christian university
Baseball hazing incident (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Active Greek life with history of scrutiny
Religious identity doesn’t eliminate hazing risk

Texas Tech University (Lubbock):

Major West Texas university
Large Greek system with documented hazing incidents
Rhabdomyolysis cases similar to UH incident have occurred
Proximity to Taylor County makes it a common choice

Common Hazing Patterns Across These Campuses

Alcohol-Centric Hazing: Big/Little nights, bid acceptance parties, drinking games
Physical “Workouts”: Disguised as conditioning but actually punishment
Corps/Special Group Traditions: Military-style organizations with normalized abuse
Digital Hazing: 24/7 group chat demands, social media humiliation
Sexualized Rituals: Particularly in all-male organizations and athletic teams

National Hazing Histories: Patterns That Affect Taylor County Students

Why National Organization Histories Matter

When a fraternity chapter at UT Austin or Texas A&M hazes pledges, it’s often following a script written by decades of “tradition” within that national organization. These patterns create legal liability because they show:

Foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known this would happen
Prior Notice: Previous incidents at other chapters provided warning
Inadequate Prevention: Anti-hazing policies weren’t meaningfully enforced
Pattern and Practice: Systematic failure to protect pledges

Major National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State (2021): Pledge died from alcohol poisoning after forced consumption; $10 million settlement ($7M from national, $3M from university)
David Bogenberger – Northern Illinois (2012): Pledge died from alcohol poisoning; $14 million settlement
UH Chapter History: Prior sanctions for hazing violations

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

Nationwide pattern of alcohol-related hazing deaths
Texas A&M Chemical Burns Case: Industrial cleaner causing severe burns
UT Austin Assault Case: International student seriously injured
Has eliminated traditional pledge process nationally but hazing persists

Pi Kappa Phi:

Andrew Coffey – Florida State (2017): Pledge died from alcohol poisoning during Big Brother night
Leonel Bermudez – University of Houston (2025): Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure case we’re currently litigating
National headquarters faces allegations of inadequate supervision

Phi Delta Theta:

Max Gruver – LSU (2017): Pledge died during “Bible study” drinking game; led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
Pattern of alcohol hazing across multiple chapters

Beta Theta Pi:

Timothy Piazza – Penn State (2017): Bid acceptance night with extreme drinking, delayed medical care; falls captured on security cameras
Resulted in Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania
One of the largest hazing prosecutions in U.S. history

What These Patterns Mean for Taylor County Cases

Foreseeability Defense: We can show national organizations knew these specific hazing methods were dangerous because they caused deaths/injuries elsewhere.
Punitive Damages Potential: Repeated disregard for safety despite prior incidents can justify punishment beyond compensation.
Insurance Coverage Arguments: National organizations often have deeper insurance coverage than local chapters.
Settlement Leverage: National headquarters want to avoid public trials that expose systemic failures.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery

Critical Evidence in Modern Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important Category):

Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Signal messages
Social Media: Instagram stories, TikTok videos, Snapchat snaps, Facebook posts
Deleted Message Recovery: Digital forensics can often retrieve “disappearing” content
Location Data: Geo-tracking from Find My Friends, Life360, Snapchat Maps
Email Communications: Chapter planning, national correspondence

Physical Evidence:

Photographs of injuries (multiple angles, include scale reference)
Medical records documenting treatment and diagnoses
Clothing with stains, tears, or other damage
Objects used in hazing (paddles, alcohol bottles, props)
Receipts for forced purchases

Institutional Records:

University conduct files showing prior violations
Campus police incident reports
National fraternity risk management files
Insurance policies and coverage documents
Housing corporation records

Witness Testimony:

Other pledges who experienced the same hazing
Former members who quit over abuse
Roommates, friends, or RAs who observed changes
Medical providers who treated injuries
Expert witnesses on Greek culture, trauma, economics

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical Expenses: Past and future treatment, hospitalization, therapy, medications
Lost Income/Earning Capacity: Missed work, delayed graduation, reduced future earnings
Educational Costs: Tuition for interrupted semesters, lost scholarships
Other Expenses: Counseling, relocation, property damage

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm):

Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries and medical treatment
Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Inability to participate in activities
Relationship Damage: Strained family and social connections

Wrongful Death Damages (If Applicable):

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of financial support and inheritance
Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
Grief and mental anguish of surviving family

Punitive Damages (When Appropriate):

Awarded to punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
Available when defendants showed conscious disregard for safety
Limited by Texas statutory caps in many cases

Legal Strategy: Overcoming Common Defenses

Fraternities, universities, and their insurers use predictable defenses. Here’s how we counter them:

Defense: “The Pledge Consented”

Our Response: Texas law explicitly states consent is not a defense (Education Code §37.155). Power imbalances and peer pressure negate true consent.

Defense: “This Was Rogue Individuals, Not the Organization”

Our Response: Pattern evidence shows this wasn’t isolated. National organizations have duty to supervise and enforce policies.

Defense: “It Happened Off-Campus/Not Our Property”

Our Response: Location doesn’t eliminate liability when organizations sponsor, fund, or benefit from activities.

Defense: “We Have Anti-Hazing Policies”

Our Response: Paper policies mean nothing without enforcement. We show prior incidents were ignored or minimally punished.

Defense: “The University Has Sovereign Immunity”

Our Response: Exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual employee misconduct. Universities often settle despite immunity arguments.

Defense: “Insurance Doesn’t Cover Intentional Acts”

Our Response: Negligent supervision claims may be covered even if hazing was intentional. We identify all potential insurance sources.

Practical Guide for Taylor County Parents and Students

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Physical Indicators:

Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or injuries
Extreme fatigue or exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food/water restriction
Signs of alcohol poisoning or drug use (even if not typical behavior)

Behavioral Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-Greek activities
Personality shifts: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive when asked about the group
Constant phone checking for group chat demands

Academic Red Flags:

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

Financial Concerns:

Unexpected large expenses for “dues,” “fines,” or alcohol
Requests for money without clear explanation

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing

Do:

Ask open-ended questions: “How are things going with [organization]?”
Express concern without judgment: “I’m worried about your safety.”
Emphasize that you’re on their side: “You can always come to me, no matter what.”
Listen more than you talk

Don’t:

Accuse or confront immediately
Dismiss their loyalty to the group
Demand immediate decisions
Share their story without permission

If You Suspect Hazing: Step-by-Step Action Plan

Step 1: Immediate Safety

If in danger, call 911 or campus police
Get medical attention for any injuries
Remove from dangerous situation

Step 2: Document Everything

Screenshot all digital communications immediately
Photograph injuries from multiple angles
Write detailed notes with dates, times, names, locations
Save physical evidence (clothing, receipts, objects)

Step 3: Seek Legal Guidance

Contact experienced hazing attorney before speaking to university/insurers
We can advise on evidence preservation and strategy
Early legal involvement protects rights and maximizes recovery

Step 4: Report Strategically

With attorney guidance, report to appropriate authorities:
- Campus police or local police (for criminal acts)
- Dean of Students/Office of Student Conduct
- Title IX office (if sexual harassment involved)
- National organization headquarters

Step 5: Focus on Recovery

Continue medical and psychological treatment
Document all treatment and expenses
Consider academic accommodations or transfers
Allow legal process to unfold while prioritizing wellbeing

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

MISTAKE #1: Deleting Digital Evidence

Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; makes case nearly impossible to prove
Better approach: Preserve everything immediately—even embarrassing content

MISTAKE #2: Confronting the Organization Directly

Why it’s wrong: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Better approach: Document first, then let your attorney handle communication

MISTAKE #3: Signing University “Resolution” Forms

Why it’s wrong: May waive right to sue; settlements are often inadequate
Better approach: Have attorney review everything before signing

MISTAKE #4: Posting on Social Media

Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Better approach: Keep details private; let attorney control messaging

MISTAKE #5: Waiting to See “How the University Handles It”

Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Better approach: Preserve evidence now; consult attorney immediately

Why Attorney911 for Taylor County Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Litigation

Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña’s Background):
Mr. Lupe 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
Fight coverage under policy exclusions
Deploy Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) to reduce settlements

This insider knowledge is invaluable when negotiating with the same insurers who defend fraternities and universities nationwide.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello’s Background):

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: One of few Texas firms involved against billion-dollar corporate defendants
Federal Court Admitted: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
25+ Years Experience: Since 1998, handling serious injury and wrongful death cases
HCCLA Membership: Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association credential signals elite criminal defense capability

Multi-Million Dollar Results:

Logging Accident Brain Injury: Multi-million dollar settlement for client with vision loss
Car Accident Amputation: Millions recovered for partial leg amputation case
Wrongful Death Trucking Cases: Multiple seven-figure recoveries for families
Maritime Injury Back Injury: Significant settlement for cargo lifting injury

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability:

Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
Can advise witnesses and former members with potential exposure
Knows how to navigate parallel proceedings

Investigative Depth and Expert Network:

Digital Forensics: Recovery of deleted messages and social media evidence
Medical Experts: Specialists in rhabdomyolysis, traumatic brain injury, PTSD
Economic Experts: Lifetime care costing and earning capacity analysis
Greek Culture Experts: Understand organizational dynamics and traditions

Spanish Language Services:

Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish
Can serve Hispanic families throughout Texas
Cultural understanding of Texas demographics

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: How We Build Better Cases

While many law firms start from scratch, we maintain proprietary data on Texas Greek organizations that gives us an immediate investigative advantage:

What Our Database Includes:

1,423 fraternities, sororities, and Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros
IRS B83 records for 125+ Texas-registered Greek entities (EINs, legal names, addresses)
Campus-specific chapter rosters for UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
National hazing incident histories for major organizations
Insurance coverage patterns and defense strategies

How This Helps Your Case:

Rapid Entity Identification: We immediately identify all potentially liable parties (chapter, housing corp, alumni association, national HQ)
Pattern Evidence: We can show this wasn’t an isolated incident but part of organizational pattern
Prior Notice Documentation: We establish what the national organization knew and when
Insurance Coverage Mapping: We identify all potential insurance sources
Settlement Leverage: Our data-driven approach forces earlier, better settlements

Our Approach: Empathetic, Thorough, and Strategic

We Listen First:

Your initial consultation focuses on understanding what happened
No pressure to hire us immediately
We explain options clearly so you can make informed decisions

We Investigate Thoroughly:

Leave no stone unturned in evidence collection
Use digital forensics, subpoenas, public records requests
Build comprehensive understanding of organizational dynamics

We Fight Strategically:

Identify all potentially liable defendants
Navigate insurance coverage disputes
Prepare every case as if it’s going to trial (because that’s what gets settlements)
Balance aggressive advocacy with client wellbeing

We Communicate Regularly:

You’ll never wonder what’s happening with your case
We explain legal developments in plain English
We’re available to answer questions throughout the process

Frequently Asked Questions for Taylor County Families

Q: Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?
A: Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individual employees. Private universities (like SMU and Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case analysis.

Q: Is hazing a felony in Texas?
A: It can be. Texas law makes hazing a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individual officers can also face charges for failing to report hazing.

Q: What if my child “agreed” to the initiation activities?
A: Texas Education Code §37.155 explicitly states that “consent is not a defense” to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure isn’t truly voluntary. This is a critical protection for victims.

Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
A: Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm wasn’t immediately apparent. In cases involving cover-ups, the statute may be paused. Time is critical—call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?
A: Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national organizations can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases occurred off-campus and still resulted in significant recoveries.

Q: Will my child’s name be public?
A: Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms to protect privacy while pursuing accountability.

Q: How much does it cost to hire your firm?
A: We work on a contingency fee basis for hazing injury cases—you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover money for you. This makes justice accessible to families who couldn’t otherwise afford it.

Q: What if my child was drinking underage during the hazing?
A: Texas law provides “good-faith reporter” protections for students who seek medical help in emergencies, even if they were drinking underage. This shouldn’t prevent pursuing a case.

Contact Attorney911 for a Confidential Consultation

If Hazing Has Impacted Your Taylor County Family

Whether your child attends Abilene Christian University here in Taylor County or any Texas campus, you have rights. The organizations behind hazing—fraternities, sororities, athletic teams, Corps programs—have legal obligations to keep students safe. When they fail, families deserve answers, accountability, and compensation.

Why Contact Us Now:
. Evidence Disappears Quickly: Group chats are deleted, witnesses are coached, physical evidence is destroyed
. Statutes of Limitations Apply: Texas generally gives you 2 years from the injury date
. Early Legal Strategy Matters: Decisions made in the first days can determine case outcomes
. University Processes Are Not Neutral: Schools often prioritize protecting their reputation

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

We’ll listen to your story without judgment
Review any evidence you’ve preserved (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain your legal options clearly
Discuss realistic timelines and potential outcomes
Answer questions about costs (contingency fee—no win, no fee)
No pressure to hire us—take time to decide what’s right for your family

Contact Information:

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

Serving Families Throughout Texas:
While based in Houston, we serve hazing victims and families across Texas, including Taylor County, Abilene, and surrounding communities. We understand the unique challenges Texas families face when dealing with campus hazing, and we’re committed to helping you navigate this difficult situation with compassion, expertise, and determination.

You’re Not Alone in This:
Hazing thrives in secrecy and shame. By coming forward, you’re not only protecting your child’s rights—you’re helping prevent this from happening to another family. The organizations that enable hazing count on silence. Don’t give them that power.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you understand your rights and options.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

Click2Houston investigation: 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 detailed timeline: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
Hoodline case summary: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

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

Attorney911 Website:

Main site & contact: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Criminal defense practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/
Ralph Manginello profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Lupe Peña profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

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