The Complete Guide to Hazing, Texas Law, and Your Family’s Rights: A Resource for Taylor Landing Families

For families in Taylor Landing and Jefferson County whose children attend Texas universities, this comprehensive guide explains what hazing really looks like, how Texas law protects victims, and where to turn when campus organizations cause harm.

1. A Texas Parent’s Worst Nightmare: When Campus “Tradition” Turns Tragic

You dropped your child off at their Texas university—perhaps the University of Houston, Texas A&M, or Lamar University right here in Beaumont—with pride and hope. They talked excitedly about joining a fraternity, sorority, athletic team, or the Corps of Cadets. Now, weeks later, something feels wrong. They’re exhausted, secretive, and have unexplained bruises. Their personality has changed. Or worse: your phone rings with news they’ve been hospitalized after a “pledge event.”

For families in Taylor Landing, Port Arthur, and across Jefferson County, this nightmare became reality for one Houston family in 2025. Right now, our firm represents Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after brutal hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. According to a $10 million lawsuit filed in late 2025, Bermudez was forced through extreme workouts, humiliated with a degrading “pledge fanny pack,” sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and made to consume excessive food until vomiting. He was hospitalized for four days with brown urine—a classic sign of severe muscle breakdown. The chapter has since been shut down, with UH calling the conduct “deeply disturbing.”

This isn’t an isolated incident. It’s happening at campuses throughout Texas, including schools where Taylor Landing families send their children. This guide exists because you deserve to know: what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects victims, and what legal options exist when universities and Greek organizations fail their students.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

• Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine”
• Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  • Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
  • Photograph injuries from multiple angles
  • Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
• Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
• Do NOT:
  • Confront the fraternity/sorority
  • 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 (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

2. Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like (Beyond the Stereotypes)

For Taylor Landing families who may be unfamiliar with modern Greek life dynamics, understanding what constitutes hazing is the first step toward protection. Hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or harmless pranks—it’s systematic abuse that endangers physical and mental health.

2.1 The Modern Definition: Coercion Disguised as Community

Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. The critical element that Taylor Landing parents must understand: “I agreed to it” does not make it safe or legal. When there’s peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of social exclusion, what looks like consent is often coercion.

2.2 The Five Categories of Modern Hazing

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing: The #1 Killer

• Forced or coerced drinking (chugging challenges, “lineups,” drinking games)
• Pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances
• “Big/Little” nights where pledges are given handles of liquor
• Why it’s deadly: This pattern caused the deaths of Timothy Piazza (Penn State), Max Gruver (LSU), Andrew Coffey (FSU), and Stone Foltz (Bowling Green)

2. Physical Hazing: Beyond “Tough Love”

• Paddling, beatings, or physical assaults
• Extreme calisthenics (“smokings”) far beyond normal conditioning
• Sleep deprivation, food/water restriction
• Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments
• Local example: In the Bermudez case, forced workouts caused rhabdomyolysis

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: Degradation as “Bonding”

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts, degrading positions, humiliating costumes
• Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones
• Public shaming in meetings or on social media

4. Psychological Hazing: The Invisible Injury

• Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
• Manipulation, forced confessions, psychological games
• Constant criticism designed to break down self-esteem

5. Digital/Online Hazing: The 24/7 Pressure Cooker

• Group chat dares and “challenges” (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord)
• Public humiliation via Instagram stories, TikTok videos, Snapchat
• Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos
• Location tracking demands (Find My Friends, Life360)
• Why this matters for Taylor Landing families: Digital evidence is often the key to proving hazing cases

2.3 Where Hazing Happens: It’s Not Just “Frat Boys”

Taylor Landing students may encounter hazing in multiple campus organizations:

• Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural groups)
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups (particularly at Texas A&M)
• Athletic Teams (football, basketball, baseball, cheer, swimming)
• Spirit Squads and Tradition Groups (Texas Cowboys, cheer teams, dance teams)
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups
• Some Academic, Service, and Cultural Organizations

The common threads across all these groups: social status, tradition, and secrecy keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

3. Texas Hazing Law & Liability Framework: What Jefferson County Families Need to Know

Texas has specific laws addressing hazing, but understanding how they work in practice is crucial for Taylor Landing families considering legal action.

3.1 Texas Education Code Chapter 37: Your Statutory Protection

Under Texas Education Code Chapter 37, Subchapter F, hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, 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 protections for Taylor Landing families:

• Location doesn’t matter: Hazing can occur on-campus, off-campus, or at remote retreats
• “Consent is not a defense” (§37.155): Even if your child “agreed,” it’s still hazing under Texas law
• Good-faith reporter immunity (§37.154): Those who report hazing or call for medical help are protected from liability
• Organizational liability (§37.153): Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be criminally prosecuted

3.2 Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Different Paths to Accountability

Criminal Cases (Brought by the State):

• Purpose: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
• Typical charges: Hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
• Penalty enhancements: Hazing is a Class B misdemeanor but becomes a state jail felony if causing serious bodily injury or death

Civil Cases (Brought by Victims/Families):

• Purpose: Monetary compensation and accountability
• Legal theories: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
• Critical distinction: A criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case

Many hazing cases involve parallel proceedings—criminal charges against individuals while victims pursue civil claims against the organization and university.

3.3 Federal Law Overlay: Title IX, Clery, and the Stop Campus Hazing Act

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

• Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents transparently
• Strengthens hazing education and prevention
• Mandates public hazing data (phased in by 2026)
• Impact for Taylor Landing families: More transparency about which organizations have violations

Title IX & Clery Act:

• When hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger
• Clery requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics
• Local connection: These federal laws apply equally to Lamar University, Texas A&M, and all Texas public universities

3.4 Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

1. Individual Students:

• Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
• Chapter officers with supervisory responsibility

2. Local Chapter/Organization:

• The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if incorporated)
• Housing corporations that own chapter properties

3. National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

• Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
• Key factor: What they knew or should have known from prior incidents

4. University or Governing Board:

• Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT, Lamar) under certain negligence theories
• Private universities (SMU, Baylor) with fewer immunity protections
• Liability questions: Prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference

5. Third Parties:

• Landlords/owners of houses or event spaces
• Bars or alcohol providers (under Texas dram shop law)
• Security companies or event organizers

Every case is fact-specific, but experienced hazing attorneys investigate all potential liable parties to ensure full accountability.

4. National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Can Learn from Tragedy

The heartbreaking cases below aren’t just national news—they establish legal precedents and patterns that directly impact how Texas courts view hazing cases involving Taylor Landing students.

4.1 The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: A Deadly Script

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

• 19-year-old died after bid-acceptance drinking event
• Severe falls captured on chapter cameras; 12-hour delay before medical help
• Legal impact: 18 members charged with 1,000+ criminal counts; Pennsylvania enacted Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law
• Texas relevance: Shows how delayed medical response dramatically increases liability

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

• “Bible study” drinking game; forced to drink when answering questions incorrectly
• Died with 0.495% BAC (six times legal limit)
• Legal impact: Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
• Texas relevance: Demonstrates legislative change follows public outrage

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

• Pledge forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during “Big/Little” night
• $10 million settlement ($7M from national Pi Kappa Alpha, ~$3M from BGSU)
• Legal impact: Chapter president ordered to pay $6.5 million personally
• Texas relevance: Shows individual officers can face massive personal liability

4.2 Physical & Ritualized Hazing: Violence Disguised as Tradition

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

• Pledge subjected to violent “glass ceiling” ritual at remote retreat
• Fatal head injuries; delayed medical response
• Legal impact: National fraternity criminally convicted; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
• Texas relevance: Off-campus locations don’t eliminate liability

4.3 Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)

• Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within program
• Multiple lawsuits; head coach fired and settled wrongful-termination suit
• Legal impact: Shows hazing extends to big-money athletic programs
• Texas relevance: Texas A&M, UT, and Baylor athletic programs face similar risks

4.4 What These Cases Mean for Taylor Landing Families

These national tragedies established critical legal principles:

1. Pattern evidence matters: When organizations repeat dangerous “traditions” nationwide, it shows foreseeability
2. Delayed medical care increases liability: Cover-ups often cause more legal exposure than the hazing itself
3. Individual accountability exists: Officers and participants can face personal financial ruin
4. Legislative change follows tragedy: Public pressure leads to stronger laws

For Taylor Landing families facing hazing at Lamar University, Texas A&M, or other Texas schools, these national cases provide both warning and precedent: the legal system can and does hold organizations accountable for predictable, preventable harm.

5. Texas University Focus: Where Taylor Landing Students Face Hazing Risks

Taylor Landing families send children to universities throughout Texas. Understanding the specific hazing landscape at each campus helps parents recognize risks and respond effectively.

5.1 Lamar University: Our Jefferson County Neighbor

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Public university in Beaumont, just minutes from Taylor Landing
• Growing Greek life community alongside commuter population
• Home to multiple fraternities and sororities with chapters listed in public records

Documented Greek Organizations at Lamar (From Public Records):

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Mu Epsilon Chapter (Beaumont, TX)
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Alpha Psi Sigma (Alumnae chapter, Beaumont)
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Epsilon Kappa Alumni (Beaumont)
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Lambda Lambda Chapter (Undergrad chapter, founded 2018)
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Beaumont Alumni (Graduate chapter)
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – Lamar University Chapter

Hazing Policy & Reporting:

• Lamar prohibits hazing under Texas Education Code Chapter 37
• Reporting channels: Dean of Students, LUPD, online reporting forms
• Taylor Landing connection: Local jurisdiction means cases may involve Jefferson County courts

What Lamar Students & Parents Should Know:

• Document any incidents through Lamar’s official reporting systems
• Preserve evidence before it disappears (especially digital evidence)
• Understand that hazing at Lamar falls under Texas state law and local jurisdiction
• Consult with attorneys experienced in Southeast Texas campus cases

5.2 University of Houston: Where Our Active Hazing Case Is Unfolding

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Major urban university with active Greek life (30+ fraternities/sororities)
• Location of our flagship case: Leonel Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi
• Mix of commuter and residential students

The Bermudez Case: A Taylor Landing Family’s Warning
We’re currently litigating one of Texas’s most serious hazing cases at UH. Leonel Bermudez, a transfer student, suffered:

• Rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure from forced workouts
• Four-day hospitalization with critically high creatine kinase levels
• Humiliation via mandatory “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices
• Psychological trauma from threats, simulated waterboarding, and degradation

The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter was suspended (Nov 6, 2025) then closed after members voted to surrender their charter (Nov 14, 2025). UH called the conduct “deeply disturbing.” This case shows that even at major universities, dangerous hazing persists until serious litigation forces accountability.

UH’s Greek Landscape (From Verified Rosters):

• Interfraternity Council: Alpha Epsilon Pi, Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Delta Upsilon, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, 10+ others
• Panhellenic Council: Alpha Chi Omega, Chi Omega, Delta Gamma, Delta Zeta, Phi Mu, Zeta Tau Alpha
• NPHC (Divine Nine): All nine organizations represented

For Taylor Landing Families with UH Students:

• UHPD and Houston Police share jurisdiction depending on location
• Civil cases typically filed in Harris County courts
• Prior incidents at UH create pattern evidence for new cases
• Our active litigation gives us unparalleled insight into UH’s response patterns

5.3 Texas A&M University: Corps Culture & Greek Life Risks

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Flagship campus with massive Greek system (60+ chapters)
• Corps of Cadets with its own traditions and discipline systems
• Documented hazing incidents in both Greek and Corps contexts

Documented Incidents:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, causing severe burns requiring skin grafts; $1 million lawsuit filed
• Corps of Cadets “Roasted Pig” Case (2023): Cadet alleged being bound between beds in degrading position with apple in mouth; sought over $1 million
• Public Records Show: 42 Greek organizations in College Station-Bryan metro per Cause IQ data

Greek Organizations Present at Texas A&M (From Verified Rosters):

• Interfraternity Council: Alpha Gamma Rho, Alpha Sigma Phi, Alpha Tau Omega, Beta Theta Pi, Delta Tau Delta, Kappa Alpha Order, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Phi Gamma Delta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, 10+ others
• Panhellenic Council: Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Epsilon Phi, Alpha Omicron Pi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Delta Zeta, Gamma Phi Beta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Delta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, Zeta Tau Alpha

For Taylor Landing Families with A&M Connections:

• Both Greek life and Corps programs have documented hazing risks
• Brazos County courts typically handle local cases
• Pattern evidence from prior incidents strengthens new cases
• University’s response to prior cases indicates institutional approach

5.4 University of Texas at Austin: Transparency & Ongoing Issues

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

• Flagship campus with 60+ Greek chapters
• Notable for public hazing violations database
• Multiple documented incidents despite transparency efforts

UT’s Public Hazing Violations (Examples):

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter placed on probation
• Texas Wranglers & Other Spirit Groups: Sanctions for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing
• Transparency Note: UT publishes violations at hazing.utexas.edu

Greek Organizations at UT (From Verified Rosters):

• Interfraternity Council: Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Tau Kappa Epsilon
• Panhellenic Council: Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Epsilon Phi, Alpha Phi, Alpha Xi Delta, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Delta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi, Sigma Delta Tau, Zeta Tau Alpha

For Taylor Landing Families with UT Students:

• Travis County courts handle Austin cases
• Public violation database provides pattern evidence
• University’s response indicates seriousness about enforcement
• Digital evidence preservation is critical

5.5 Southern Methodist University & Baylor University: Private School Realities

SMU (Dallas):

• Private university with affluent student population
• Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): Paddling, forced drinking, sleep deprivation; chapter suspended
• Less public transparency than state schools
• Dallas County jurisdiction for legal cases

Baylor (Waco):

• Private Christian university with Greek life
• Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following investigation
• History of scrutiny over institutional response to misconduct
• McLennan County jurisdiction

For Taylor Landing Families at Private Universities:

• Fewer public records available
• Different legal strategies may be needed
• Still subject to Texas hazing laws
• Our experience with private institutions informs approach

6. Fraternities & Sororities: National Histories Meet Texas Chapters

For Taylor Landing families, understanding that local chapters are part of national organizations with documented hazing histories is crucial. These national patterns create legal “foreseeability”—the concept that organizations should have predicted and prevented harm based on prior incidents.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter Legally

When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous “traditions” that caused deaths or injuries at other chapters, that pattern shows:

1. Foreseeability: The national organization knew or should have known this could happen
2. Negligence: Failure to implement effective prevention measures
3. Punitive Damages Potential: Repeated ignoring of known dangers may justify punishment beyond compensation

6.2 National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories (Present at Texas Schools)

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ) – Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, Baylor

• Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State (2021) – $10 million settlement
• David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois (2012) – $14 million settlement
• Texas Connection: Chapter at UH under investigation (2016) for pledge injury

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) – Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

• Texas A&M Chemical Burns: 2021 lawsuit alleging industrial cleaner caused burns
• UT Austin Assault: 2024 lawsuit alleging exchange student assaulted
• National Pattern: Multiple alcohol-related deaths nationwide

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ) – Present at Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

• Max Gruver: LSU (2017) – Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act
• National Response: Implemented alcohol-free housing policy after Gruver death

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ) – Present at UH, Texas A&M, UT

• Andrew Coffey: Florida State (2017) – died during “Big Brother Night”
• Current Case: Our firm represents Leonel Bermudez against UH Pi Kappa Phi chapter

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ) – Present at Texas A&M, SMU

• SMU Incident: 2017 paddling and forced drinking led to suspension
• National History: Multiple hazing violations across chapters

6.3 The Beaumont-Port Arthur Metro Greek Landscape: Local Organizations

From public records, these Greek organizations operate in our metro area:

Registered with IRS (EINs on File):

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Mu Epsilon Chapter (Beaumont)
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – Lamar University Chapter (Beaumont)
• Alpha Omega Epsilon – Beta Alpha Chapter (Beaumont, EIN 562652714)
• Plus multiple Delta Kappa Gamma Society chapters (educators’ sorority)

Cause IQ Metro Listings for Beaumont-Port Arthur:

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Mu Epsilon Chapter (Undergrad, Lamar)
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Alpha Psi Sigma (Alumnae chapter)
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Beaumont Alumnae (Graduate chapter)
• Kappa Alpha Theta – Beaumont Alumnae Chapter
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Epsilon Kappa Alumni (Lamar alumni)
• 12+ additional Greek and honor society chapters

Total for Beaumont-Port Arthur Metro: 22 Greek-related organizations per Cause IQ data

6.4 How National Patterns Impact Taylor Landing Cases

When we investigate hazing involving Taylor Landing students, we examine:

1. National Organization’s Prior Incidents: What did headquarters know?
2. Policy vs. Practice: Were anti-hazing policies actually enforced?
3. Chapter-Specific History: Prior violations at the same chapter
4. Regional Patterns: Similar incidents at neighboring chapters

This investigative depth comes from our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a proprietary database tracking 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros, including the 22 in our Beaumont-Port Arthur area.

7. Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages & Legal Strategy

For Taylor Landing families considering legal action, understanding how cases are built provides clarity during a confusing time.

7.1 Critical Evidence in Modern Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important Today):

• Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack
• Social Media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook
• Photos/Videos: Content filmed during events, security camera footage
• Recovery Capability: Digital forensics can often retrieve deleted messages

Internal Organization Documents:

• Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
• Emails/texts about planning events
• National policies and training materials

University Records:

• Prior conduct files, probation/suspension letters
• Campus police incident reports
• Clery Act reports and disclosures
• Taylor Landing note: Public records requests can obtain these

Medical & Psychological Records:

• Emergency room and hospitalization records
• Toxicology reports (blood alcohol, drug screens)
• Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
• Local connection: Jefferson County medical providers’ records

Witness Testimony:

• Other pledges, members, roommates
• Former members who quit or were expelled
• Bystanders, RAs, coaches
• Strategic consideration: Witness cooperation often unlocks cases

7.2 Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

• Medical Expenses: Past bills, future care, lifelong treatment if permanently injured
• Lost Earnings/Educational Impact: Missed semesters, delayed career entry
• Other Losses: Property damage, relocation costs, therapy expenses

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective Harm):

• Physical Pain & Suffering: From injuries and recovery
• Emotional Distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Can’t participate in activities they loved
• Reputational Harm: Social stigma, difficulty transferring schools

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

• Funeral/burial costs
• Loss of companionship and financial support
• Emotional suffering of family members
• Texas law: Only certain family members can bring claims

Punitive Damages (When Available):

• Purpose: Punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
• Available when defendants show “callous indifference”
• Texas caps: Generally limited except in intentional conduct cases

7.3 The Insurance Coverage Battle: Why Experience Matters

Fraternities, sororities, and universities carry insurance—but insurers often fight coverage using arguments like:

• “Hazing is an intentional act” (policy exclusion)
• “This wasn’t an official chapter event”
• “The university isn’t liable for off-campus conduct”

Our insurance insider advantage comes from Mr. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney. He knows exactly how insurers:

• Value and undervalue claims
• Use delay tactics to pressure families
• Argue coverage exclusions
• Set reserves and negotiate

This knowledge helps us navigate coverage disputes and maximize recovery for Taylor Landing families.

8. Practical Guides for Taylor Landing Families: What to Do Now

8.1 For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Taylor Landing Student May Be Being Hazed:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
• Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
• Sudden secrecy about organization activities
• Personality changes: anxiety, depression, withdrawal
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
• Financial requests for unexplained “fines” or purchases

If You Suspect Hazing:

1. Talk Openly (Without Judgment): “How are things with your fraternity/sorority? Is anything making you uncomfortable?”
2. Document Everything: Write down what they tell you (dates, names, details)
3. Preserve Evidence: Help them screenshot messages before deletion
4. Seek Medical Care: Even if they resist, some injuries need immediate attention
5. Consult an Attorney Early: Before talking to the university or organization

8.2 For Students: Safety Planning & Exit Strategies

Is This Hazing? Ask Yourself:

• 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?
• Am I being told to keep secrets?

How to Exit Safely:

• Immediate Danger: Call 911, then get to a safe location
• Wanting to Quit: Send an email/text: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
• Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure or retaliation might occur
• Document Threats: Screenshot any harassment or retaliation

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

• You cannot be punished for calling 911 in a medical emergency
• “Consent” is not a defense to hazing charges
• You can request no-contact orders through the university
• You have 2 years generally to file a civil lawsuit (but act much sooner)

8.3 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

1. Deleting Evidence: “Cleaning up” messages looks like a cover-up and loses critical proof

2. Confronting the Organization: They’ll immediately lawyer up and destroy evidence

3. Signing University Documents: Waivers or “internal resolution” agreements may limit legal options

4. Posting on Social Media: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility

5. Waiting for University Investigation: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statutes of limitation run

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball offers

7. Letting Your Child Return: “One last meeting” often involves pressure, intimidation, or coached statements

8.4 FAQ for Taylor Landing Families

Q: Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?
A: Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities have fewer protections. Every case is fact-specific.

Q: Is hazing a felony in Texas?
A: It can be. Texas law makes hazing a Class B misdemeanor by default but upgrades it to a state jail felony if causing serious bodily injury or death.

Q: What if it happened off-campus?
A: Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Many major hazing cases occurred off-campus.

Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
A: Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but exceptions exist. Evidence disappears quickly, so immediate action is crucial.

Q: Will this be confidential?
A: Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed records and confidential settlement terms.

9. About The Manginello Law Firm: Why Taylor Landing Families Choose Us

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway.

Our Taylor Landing Connection & Texas-Wide Service

From our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices, we serve families throughout Texas, including Taylor Landing and all of Jefferson County. We understand that hazing at Texas universities—whether at Lamar University right here in Beaumont or campuses across the state—affects families throughout our region.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases?

1. Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña):

• Former insurance defense attorney at a national firm
• Knows exactly how fraternity and university insurers value claims
• Understands their delay tactics, coverage arguments, and negotiation strategies
• “We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

2. Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello):

• One of few Texas firms involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation
• Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
• Not intimidated by national fraternities or universities with unlimited legal budgets
• “We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations. We know how to fight powerful defendants.”

3. Active Hazing Litigation Experience:

• Current case: Representing Leonel Bermudez in $10 million UH Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit
• Deep understanding of modern hazing tactics and digital evidence
• Knowledge of university response patterns and defense strategies

4. Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Results:

• Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
• Experience collaborating with economists on lifetime care needs
• “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

5. Criminal + Civil Dual Capability:

• Ralph’s HCCLA membership signals elite criminal defense expertise
• Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
• Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure

6. Investigative Depth & Expert Network:

• Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Proprietary database tracking 1,423 Greek organizations across Texas
• Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
• Experience obtaining hidden evidence (deleted messages, chapter records, university files)
• “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Our Commitment to Taylor Landing Families

We approach hazing cases with:

• Empathy: We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face
• Thoroughness: We leave no stone unturned in investigation
• Tenacity: We’re not afraid to take on powerful institutions
• Privacy: We protect your family’s dignity while pursuing accountability
• Prevention Focus: We aim not just for compensation but to prevent future harm

Contact Us for a Confidential Consultation

If hazing has affected your Taylor Landing family, we offer:

Free, Confidential Consultation:

• We listen to your story without judgment
• Review evidence you’ve preserved
• Explain your legal options clearly
• Answer questions about process, timeline, and costs
• No pressure to hire us—take time to decide
• Everything you tell us is confidential

Spanish Language Services Available:

• Hablamos Español—Mr. Lupe Peña speaks fluent Spanish
• Contact Lupe at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish
• Servicios legales en español disponibles

Contact Information:

• 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@atty911.com (Ralph Manginello), lupe@atty911.com (Lupe Peña)
• Office Locations: Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas

We Serve Families Throughout Texas:
Whether you’re in Taylor Landing, Beaumont, Port Arthur, or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. Call us today.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

Attorney911 Main Website & Contact:
https://attorney911.com

Educational YouTube Videos:

• Using Your Cellphone 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

News Coverage of Active UH Hazing Case:

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

National Anti-Hazing Hotline (Not affiliated with Attorney911):
1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) – Anonymous reporting available 24/7

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