A Family’s Guide to Hazing in Texas: Understanding Risks at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor

When your child leaves for college, whether it’s the bustling campus of the University of Houston, the traditions of Texas A&M, the sprawling grounds of UT Austin, the vibrant community of SMU, or the deeply rooted values of Baylor, you expect them to find a safe and enriching environment. You imagine late-night study sessions, new friendships, perhaps joining a fraternity, a sorority, a sport, or a club that will shape their future. But for too many Texas families, this hopeful vision shatters against the harsh reality of hazing.

Imagine the crisp Texas air on a moonless night, miles from campus, where your child, blindfolded and disoriented, is forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol or endure humiliating and physically demanding rituals, all in the name of “brotherhood” or “sisterhood.” The cheers of older students, egging them on, morph into a terrifying sound. What starts as a desperate desire to belong quickly turns into a desperate struggle for safety. Suddenly, someone collapses, goes silent, or begins to vomit uncontrollably. Panic spreads, but fear of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble” delays the crucial call for help—a call that, when it finally comes, might be too late.

This isn’t a scene from a movie; it’s a stark reality that has played out on and off campuses across our state, from Houston to College Station, Austin to Dallas, and Waco. These are the moments that change lives forever—for the student, for their family, and for the institutions that failed to protect them.

This comprehensive guide is written for families in Texas and across our great state who need to understand exactly what hazing looks like in 2025, how Texas and federal laws address it, what lessons we can draw from major national cases, and crucially, what has been happening at institutions like the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University. We will also explore the histories of various fraternities and sororities, how to build a strong legal case, and provide practical guides for parents, students, and witnesses.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, is dedicated to bringing answers and accountability to families impacted by hazing. We understand that confronting this issue can be overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. While this article provides general information, not specific legal advice, it aims to empower you with knowledge and clarity when you need it most. We serve families throughout Texas, and if you or your child has been affected, we offer confidential consultations to discuss your options.

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.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For families across Texas, including those in Texas where students might be heading off to college, understanding modern hazing is crucial. It’s often far removed from the harmless “pranks” of past generations, evolving into something far more insidious and dangerous. Hazing in 2025 is less about shaving heads and more about psychological manipulation, extreme physical abuse, and excessive substance consumption, often cloaked in secrecy and enabled by digital technology.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

At its core, hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action connected to joining, maintaining membership in, or gaining status within a group. This doesn’t simply mean physical violence; it includes any behavior that endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, exploits, or demeans an individual. The critical element is the power imbalance and the implicit or explicit pressure to conform. If someone is made to do something they wouldn’t freely choose, and it’s tied to their desire to belong, it’s hazing.

It’s vital to recognize that an individual’s verbal “agreement” or “consent” to participate does not make the activity safe or legal if it falls under the definition of hazing. Under the immense social pressure, the fear of exclusion, and the intense desire to belong, true voluntary consent is compromised.

Main Categories of Hazing

Modern hazing manifests in various forms, often blending different tactics to maximize control and degradation while minimizing overt detection.

Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common and deadliest form of hazing. Pledges are often forced or coerced into consuming dangerous amounts of alcohol in short periods. This can include:

• Chugging challenges, “lineups” where pledges consume multiple shots back-to-back, or games designed for rapid intoxication.
• “Big/Little” reveal nights where newly assigned “littles” are given handles of hard liquor they are expected to finish.
• Being pressured to consume unknown, mixed, or foul-tasting substances.
• Forced or coerced drug use, including illegal substances or even excessive consumption of over-the-counter medications.

Physical Hazing
Beyond the stereotypical paddling, physical hazing involves any activity that intentionally inflicts pain, exhaustion, or discomfort.

• Beatings and paddling with varied objects, often leading to severe bruising, internal injuries, or rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown).
• Extreme calisthenics, “workouts,” or “smokings” (punitive exercises) that push students beyond safe physical limits, often causing exhaustion and injury.
• Sleep, food, and water deprivation, sometimes for days, leading to extreme fatigue, disorientation, and vulnerability.
• Exposure to extreme cold/heat (e.g., forced outdoor activities in freezing temperatures, being doused with water in cold weather) or dangerous environments.

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
This category focuses on degrading an individual’s dignity, often with a sexual component.

• Forced nudity or partial nudity, or simulation of sexual acts such as “elephant walks” or “roasted pig” poses.
• Being dressed in degrading costumes or forced to perform embarrassing acts in public.
• Acts with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones, including the use of slurs or forced role-playing of stereotypes.
• Forced public masturbation or other sexual acts.

Psychological Hazing
Often overlooked but deeply damaging, psychological hazing targets a student’s mental and emotional well-being.

• Verbal abuse, threats, and intimidation, creating a climate of fear and anxiety.
• Social isolation, cutting off new members from friends, family, or other social circles, fostering dependence on the group.
• Manipulation and forced confessions, designed to break down a pledge’s self-esteem and identity.
• Public shaming or “grilling” sessions where new members are verbally attacked or ridiculed.
• Threats of expulsion or social ostracization if “secrets” are revealed or demands are not met.

Digital/Online Hazing
With the pervasive use of smartphones and social media, hazing has moved into the digital realm, enabling 24/7 control and new forms of humiliation.

• Group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Discord. Pledges might be forced to post embarrassing content or respond to messages at all hours.
• “Roll calls” at odd hours in group chats where failure to respond immediately results in punishment.
• Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos of themselves or fellow pledges.
• Monitoring social media activity, dictating what pledges can post, or forcing them to engage with specific content.
• Location tracking via shared phone features or apps.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

A common misconception is that hazing is exclusively a “frat boy” problem. The truth, however, is far more widespread. Hazing is a pervasive issue found in:

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural Greek-letter organizations. Pledges are particularly vulnerable during recruitment and initiation periods.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: Organizations grounded in discipline and hierarchy can sometimes twist these values into abusive initiation practices, leading to physical beatings, sleep deprivation, and psychological torment.
• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, swimming, cheerleading, and even club sports, hazing can occur as a twisted form of team “bonding,” involving excessive alcohol consumption, physical abuse, and sexual harassment.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly benign organizations like marching bands, a cappella groups, or theatre ensembles can harbor hazing rituals, ranging from forced public humiliation to sleep deprivation.
• Other Student Organizations: Even in service, cultural, academic, or spirit organizations (like the Texas Cowboys or some university spirit groups), hazing can occur as older members try to “break down” newcomers to build loyalty.

The underlying culture that perpetuates hazing is often rooted in a combination of social status, tradition, and secrecy. New members desperately want to belong, while older members rationalize their actions as “teaching respect” or “building character,” ignoring the inherent power imbalance. The code of silence, fueled by fear of retaliation or “getting the group in trouble,” allows these practices to persist even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal and dangerous. For Texas families, recognizing these subtle and overt forms of hazing, and understanding where they occur, is the first step toward intervention and accountability.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

For families in Texas and across the state grappling with the trauma of hazing, understanding the legal landscape is paramount. Texas has specific laws designed to combat hazing, in addition to federal regulations that can provide crucial avenues for justice.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas takes hazing seriously, with specific provisions outlined in the Texas Education Code – Chapter 37, Subchapter F. Texas law, which governs cases throughout the state and thus impacts families whether they send their children to UH, A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor, broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, conducted on or off campus, by one person or with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in any student organization, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student.

Key takeaways from Texas law:

• Broad Definition: It covers physical harm, as well as any act that harms a student’s mental health or safety. This includes psychological manipulation, extreme humiliation, or severe intimidation.
• Location Irrelevant: Whether the hazing takes place in an off-campus house, at a remote ranch, or on university grounds, the act can still be prosecuted under Texas law.
• Intent vs. Recklessness: You don’t have to prove malicious intent. If the individuals acted recklessly, meaning they knew or should have known their actions created a substantial and unjustifiable risk of harm, they can be held accountable.
• “Consent” is Not a Defense: Crucially, Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that a student “agreeing” to participate is not a legal defense to a hazing charge. The law understands that true consent is impossible within coercive group dynamics.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing in Texas:

• Class B Misdemeanor: The default charge for hazing, carrying potential penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes bodily injury to another person.
• State Jail Felony: If the hazing causes serious bodily injury (e.g., broken bones, organ damage, severe burns) or death. This felony charge can carry a sentence of 180 days to two years in a state jail facility, plus fines.

Beyond direct participation, Texas law also addresses failures to act:

• Any officer of a student organization or any individual who has knowledge of hazing and fails to report it to appropriate school officials can face misdemeanor charges.
• Retaliation against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor offense.

Organizational Liability:
Under Texas Education Code § 37.153, the student organization itself can be held criminally liable if it authorized, requested, commanded, encouraged, or intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly permitted the hazing. Penalties can include fines of up to $10,000 per violation and institutional sanctions, such as the revocation of university recognition.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

Understanding the distinction between criminal and civil legal actions is vital for Texas families seeking justice for hazing.

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (prosecutors) to punish illegal behavior. In hazing scenarios, prosecutors might bring charges such as:

  • Hazing offenses (misdemeanor or felony, depending on harm).
  • Assault, aggravated assault, or even manslaughter/homicide if death occurs.
  • Furnishing alcohol to minors.
    The goal is to protect society, and successful prosecution can lead to jail time, fines, and probation for individual perpetrators.

• Civil Cases: These are initiated by victims or their families to seek monetary compensation for the harm suffered. Unlike criminal cases, which focus on punishment, civil cases focus on providing restitution for losses. Common causes of action in hazing civil suits include:

  • Negligence/Gross Negligence: Arguing that individuals, organizations, or universities failed in their duty to protect students, leading to injury or death.
  • Wrongful Death: Brought by surviving family members if hazing caused a fatality.
  • Negligent Supervision: Alleging that adults (e.g., university staff, fraternity advisors) failed to adequately supervise students or enforce policies.
  • Premises Liability: If hazing occurred on property where there were safety hazards or inadequate security.
  • Assault and Battery: Direct claims against individuals who inflicted physical harm.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For severe psychological harm caused by outrageous conduct.

It’s important to note that a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil hazing lawsuit. The standards of proof differ, and it’s possible for individuals or organizations to be found liable in a civil court even if they weren’t convicted criminally. Civil cases can provide substantial compensation to cover medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages often overlooked by criminal proceedings.

Federal Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations also impose responsibilities on colleges and universities, creating additional layers of accountability.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This significant federal law requires higher education institutions participating in federal student aid programs to disclose more detailed information about hazing incidents. By approximately 2026, it will mandate:

  • Publicly accessible reports of all hazing violations, including participant names (if legally permissible) and sanctions imposed.
  • Enhanced hazing education and prevention efforts.
  • Improved data collection and public reporting to increase transparency. This provides Texas families with better tools to research a university’s hazing history before enrollment.

• Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. If hazing includes sexual harassment, sexual assault, gender-based bullying, or creates a hostile environment based on sex, Title IX obligations are triggered. This requires universities to:

  • Investigate complaints promptly and equitably.
  • Provide supportive measures to victims.
  • Take action to end the discrimination, prevent its recurrence, and remedy its effects. Victims of hazing with a sexual component may find legal recourse through Title IX.

• Clery Act: The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires colleges and universities to:

  • Disclose information about crime on and around their campuses.
  • Collect and publish annual security reports that include statistics for certain crimes. Hazing incidents often overlap with Clery-reportable crimes when they involve:
    • Assaults (physical hazing).
    • Alcohol and drug violations (substance hazing).
    • Sexual offenses (sexualized hazing).
      This ensures greater transparency about campus safety, including incidents that may be hazing-related.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

In a civil hazing case, multiple parties can be held accountable for their roles and responsibilities, leading to a complex web of potential defendants that experienced hazing attorneys can unravel.

• Individual Students: Those directly involved in planning, coercing, or carrying out the hazing acts (e.g., pledge trainers, chapter officers, participating members). Their personal assets, and sometimes their parents’ homeowners insurance, can be targeted.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself, viewed as a legal entity. Even if unincorporated, its assets and collective liability can be pursued.
• National Fraternity/Sorority: The larger, overarching organization with a national headquarters. Nationals often set policies, provide training, receive dues, and have a duty to supervise their local chapters. Their liability can arise if they knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing within their organization or at a specific chapter and failed to intervene effectively.
• University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself, including its board of regents, administrators, or specific departments (e.g., Greek Life office, athletic department). Their liability often depends on whether they:
  • Had knowledge of hazing (either specific incidents or a general culture).
  • Failed to adequately enforce their own anti-hazing policies.
  • Were deliberately indifferent to known risks.
  • Violated federal laws such as Title IX.
• Third Parties:
  • Property Owners: Landlords who own off-campus houses or event venues where hazing occurs, especially if they had knowledge of dangerous activities.
  • Alcohol Providers: Bars, stores, or individuals who illegally furnish alcohol to minors that contributes to a hazing incident.
  • Event Organizers/Sponsors: Any other entities that facilitated or had oversight of the hazing event.

Each case is highly fact-specific. An experienced hazing attorney carefully analyzes all involved parties and their potential liabilities to determine the strongest legal strategy.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

When a Texas family faces the trauma of hazing, they are not alone. The patterns of abuse, negligence, and cover-ups echo across campuses nationwide, creating a grim tapestry of shared tragedy. Understanding these national anchor stories reveals the deep-seated issues that fuel hazing and underscores why legal action is often necessary to force accountability and change. For families in Texas, these cases set critical precedents for holding institutions and organizations accountable.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

The most frequent and devastating outcome of hazing involves excessive alcohol consumption, often forced or coerced.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In one of the most widely publicized cases, 19-year-old Tim Piazza died after a “bid acceptance” night where he was forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol. Fraternity security cameras captured his agonizing 12-hour decline, during which brothers delayed calling for help while he suffered multiple falls and injuries. The tragedy led to dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, civil litigation resulting in undisclosed settlements, and the passage of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, a landmark piece of legislation. This case vividly demonstrated how extreme intoxication, a callous delay in calling 911, and a pervasive culture of silence can lead to devastating legal and human consequences.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Also in 2017, Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old FSU pledge, tragically died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given handles of hard liquor and pressured to consume them quickly. Multiple criminal prosecutions followed, mostly resulting in misdemeanor hazing convictions, and FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life, overhauling its policies under intense public scrutiny. Coffey’s death, much like Piazza’s, highlighted how formulaic “traditional” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster, proving foreseeability for national organizations.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): The year 2017 was particularly tragic for hazing deaths, with Max Gruver, an 18-year-old LSU pledge, dying after a “Bible study” drinking game. He was forced to drink heavily whenever he answered questions incorrectly, ultimately succumbing to alcohol toxicity with a blood alcohol content of 0.495%. While multiple members faced criminal charges, one was convicted of negligent homicide. Gruver’s death spurred Louisiana to pass the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute, emphasizing that legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing’s lethal dangers.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): More recently, Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old BGSU pledge, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” night. Multiple fraternity members were convicted of hazing-related charges. Crucially, Stone’s family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national and nearly $3 million from Bowling Green State University. This case not only strengthened Ohio anti-hazing laws (Collin’s Law) but also demonstrated that universities can face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities, even public institutions. The specific details of this case, including the personal liability assigned to the chapter president, foreshadowed similar arguments used in cases like Leonel Bermudez’s case at the University of Houston.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Hazing isn’t only about alcohol; physical abuse, often cloaked in tradition or “ritual,” can be equally lethal or permanently damaging.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, a 19-year-old pledge, died after participating in a violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual during an off-campus fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains. Members repeatedly tackled him while he wore a heavy backpack. Help was delayed for over an hour, ultimately leading to his death from a traumatic brain injury. Multiple members were convicted, and, unprecedentedly, the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter. Pi Delta Psi was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years and fined over $110,000. This landmark case affirmed that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or worse than on-campus events, and national organizations bear direct criminal liability for their chapters’ actions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not confined to Greek life; it also pervades athletic programs, often under the guise of “team bonding” or “toughening up” new recruits.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): In a recent and widely reported scandal, former Northwestern football players alleged pervasive sexualized and racist hazing within the program over multiple years. This included forced sexual acts, racial discrimination, and humiliation. The ensuing fallout led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern and its coaching staff, the firing of long-time head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later confidentially settled his wrongful-termination suit with the university), and national scrutiny. This series of events underscored that hazing extends far beyond Greek life, impacting major athletic programs and raising critical questions about institutional oversight and accountability.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies reveal disturbing common threads: forced consumption of dangerous substances, brutal physical abuse, psychological torment, the systemic delay or denial of medical care, and concerted efforts to cover up wrongdoing. These patterns repeat time and again, underscoring a critical lesson: if an organization has exhibited such behavior in one location, the risk exists wherever that organization operates.

For Texas families, whether your child attends the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, or Baylor, these national lessons are directly applicable. They demonstrate that:

• Hazing is foreseeable: National organizations and universities often have prior knowledge of specific hazing tactics and the risks involved. Repeating these patterns strengthens arguments for negligence and gross negligence.
• Consequences are severe: The high-stakes nature of hazing is reflected in multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts, criminal prosecutions, and organizational sanctions.
• Institutional accountability is possible: Despite powerful legal defenses, victims and their families can hold individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and even universities accountable for their failures to protect students.

These cases form the bedrock of hazing litigation, establishing precedents that empower Texas families to seek justice and drive meaningful change in their own communities.

Texas Focus: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

Texas is home to some of the nation’s largest and most prestigious universities, drawing students from across the state and beyond, including many from communities like Texas. While each institution boasts unique traditions and academic strengths, they unfortunately also share a common vulnerability to hazing. For students and parents connected to the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, Southern Methodist University, and Baylor University, understanding the specific context of hazing at these schools is crucial.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a Tier One research institution and a major urban university, stands at the center of Attorney911’s most significant hazing case. Its vibrant campus culture includes a thriving Greek life and numerous student organizations. For families throughout Texas, especially those in the Greater Houston area, hazing at UH carries particular significance, as it provides a local illustration of a statewide problem. Cases involving UH are typically heard in Harris County, giving families clear legal access points.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

The University of Houston, located in the heart of Houston, serves over 47,000 students, representing a diverse mix of commuter and residential students. Its active Greek life community is comprised of dozens of fraternities and sororities affiliated with various councils, including the Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council. Beyond Greek life, UH boasts a wide array of student organizations, athletic teams, and spirit groups, all contributing to a dynamic campus environment that, unfortunately, can sometimes foster hazing.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston has a comprehensive anti-hazing policy that prohibits hazing both on and off campus. This policy explicitly forbids acts that endanger mental or physical health for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or continued membership in any student organization. Prohibited activities include forced consumption of alcohol or drugs, physical mistreatment, sleep deprivation, and any form of humiliation or exploitation. UH encourages reporting through the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD), and maintains an online reporting portal. The university also posts some, though often limited, information about hazing incidents and disciplinary actions on its website.

5.1.3 Example Incidents & Response

UH has faced its share of hazing allegations over the years. Notably, in 2016, a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter was involved in an incident where pledges allegedly suffered sleep and food deprivation during a multi-day event, with one student reportedly sustaining a lacerated spleen after being slammed onto a surface. This led to serious charges and university sanctions. Beyond this, UH’s records have referenced other instances where fraternities faced disciplinary action for behaviors likely to produce “mental or physical discomfort,” including alcohol misuse and other policy violations, leading to suspensions or probation.

However, the most recent and significant development comes from Attorney911’s own litigation. In late 2025, our firm filed a $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston, the UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, its housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity members on behalf of Leonel Bermudez. Mr. Bermudez, a transfer student pledging the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, suffered acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis after alleged severe hazing. This hazing, which occurred at the Pi Kappa Phi chapter house, a residence on Culmore Drive, and Yellowstone Boulevard Park, included:

• Forced carrying and display of a “pledge fanny pack” with degrading contents.
• “Yellowstone Boulevard Park workouts” involving over 100 push-ups and 500 squats that left Mr. Bermudez unable to stand.
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate sprints.
• Being sprayed with a hose in a manner “similar to waterboarding” and threats of actual waterboarding.
• Being forced to lie in vomit-soaked grass.
• Being kept awake for days on end and performing overnight driving duties for members.
• Developing brown urine (a key symptom of rhabdomyolysis) and being hospitalized for four days.

This horrific incident, first reported by Click2Houston (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 (https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/), and Hoodline (https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/), necessitated the physical shutdown of the chapter and highlights the severe risks that continue despite universities’ anti-hazing policies. As Ralph Manginello stated, “His urine was brown… We’re almost in 2026. This has to stop.”

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed

For families in Texas considering legal action for hazing at UH, the process can involve several key jurisdictions. Criminal investigations might be conducted by UHPD or the Houston Police Department, depending on where the hazing occurred. Civil lawsuits, however, would likely be filed in state district courts with jurisdiction over Harris County, such as the 129th or 151st Civil District Courts. Potential defendants could include individual students directly involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity or sorority, and potentially the University of Houston and its Board of Regents, depending on the specifics of their alleged negligence and knowledge. Claims might also extend to property owners if hazing occurred at an off-campus residence.

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

• Report Internally (with caution): Utilize UH’s reporting mechanisms via the Dean of Students office or the online portal. However, be aware that internal processes prioritize university policy enforcement over external legal accountability.
• Contact Law Enforcement: If criminal acts (assault, felony hazing, providing alcohol to minors) occurred, contact UHPD or HPD.
• Document Everything: Photograph any injuries, screenshot all text messages and group chats related to the hazing (e.g., from GroupMe, iMessage, Instagram), and keep detailed notes of who, what, when, and where. This digital evidence is crucial for cases heard in Harris County.
• Consult Legal Counsel: Immediately contact an attorney experienced in Houston-based hazing cases, especially one familiar with the local court system in Harris County. An experienced attorney can provide guidance on preserving evidence, navigating university investigations, and pursuing civil claims efficiently. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential discussion.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University in College Station is renowned for its deep-rooted traditions, fierce school spirit, and organizations like the Corps of Cadets. These elements shape a unique campus culture that, while fostering strong loyalty, can also become a breeding ground for hazing. For families in Texas who send their children to A&M (approximately 90 miles northwest of Houston), understanding the specific dynamics here is critical, particularly given its history of incidents within both Greek life and the Corps. Cases here would typically fall under Brazos County civil and criminal jurisdiction.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M boasts a proud legacy, centered around its military-style Corps of Cadets, a large Greek life presence, and numerous student organizations. The university is deeply steeped in tradition, and while many “Aggie traditions” promote camaraderie, some can be misinterpreted or twisted into forms of hazing. This unique blend of military influence, fervent spirit, and student leadership requires particular vigilance against abusive practices.

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M strictly prohibits hazing, articulating in its Student Rules a comprehensive policy against bodily harm, mental distress, and other forms of abuse related to initiation or membership. These prohibitions apply both on and off campus. Reporting channels include the Student Conduct Office, the Title IX Office (if applicable), and the University Police Department (UPD). A&M also maintains an online hazing report form and often publishes disciplinary actions on its website, though the level of detail can vary.

5.2.3 Example Incidents & Response

Texas A&M has faced multiple high-profile hazing incidents, demonstrating that even strong traditions can be subverted.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (around 2021): Perhaps one of the most disturbing recent cases involved the SAE chapter, where pledges alleged being subjected to extreme physical exertion and having various substances, including an industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns that required extensive medical treatment, including skin graft surgeries for some victims. This incident led to the fraternity’s suspension and significant civil litigation against the national organization and individuals.
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): Within the revered Corps of Cadets, a lawsuit was filed by a former cadet alleging degrading hazing over a period, purportedly including forced simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. This case brought national attention to hazing within military-style organizations and raised critical questions about the line between “tradition” and abuse. A&M stated it addressed the matter through its internal conduct processes.
• Phi Gamma Delta (2018): Pledge Joseph Little (Phi Gamma Delta) collapsed and died during pledging activities that were later found to be hazing, contributing to another tragic loss tied to an A&M fraternity.

These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges A&M faces in balancing tradition with student safety, and how hazing can manifest in various organizational contexts beyond typical Greek life.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed

Legal proceedings for hazing at Texas A&M would predominantly be handled within Brazos County. Criminal investigations could involve the Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD) or the College Station Police Department. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in the state district courts of Brazos County. Due to the high-profile nature of A&M and its organizations, these cases can draw significant media attention. Potential defendants could include individual students, local chapters, national organizations, the university itself, and specific faculty or staff linked to organizations like the Corps of Cadets.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

• Understand the Policies: Familiarize yourselves with Texas A&M’s specific anti-hazing rules, particularly those related to both Greek life and Corps involvement.
• Report Wisely: Utilize A&M’s reporting channels (Student Conduct, UPD). However, as with any institution, be aware that official investigations may proceed at a different pace and with different priorities than a civil legal claim.
• Document Thoroughly: Given the potential for unique hazing traditions, keep meticulous records of all activities, communications (especially any digital evidence from group chats), and any physical or psychological harm.
• Seek Experienced Legal Counsel: Contact a Texas hazing attorney with specific experience litigating Against Texas A&M, the Corps of Cadets, or major Greek organizations in Brazos County. This is crucial for navigating investigations and pursuing justice effectively. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for insight into your options.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution in the heart of the state capitol, is a vibrant hub that attracts diverse student talent. While celebrated for its academic excellence and spirited traditions, UT Austin has also had to confront numerous hazing allegations within its Greek system and various student organizations, creating a challenging environment for students and parents across Texas, including Texas. Cases here would fall under Travis County civil and criminal jurisdiction.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

With over 52,000 students, the University of Texas at Austin maintains one of the largest and most active Greek life communities in the nation, alongside countless student organizations and widely recognized spirit groups like the Texas Cowboys and Texas Wranglers. Its campus culture is known for its blend of academic rigor, vibrant social life, and deep-seated traditions, all of which contribute to an environment where hazing can unfortunately take root.

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Texas at Austin maintains strict anti-hazing policies, explicitly prohibiting any activity that endangers the mental or physical health of a student for initiation, affiliation, or membership. UT’s policies apply to all registered student organizations, both on and off campus. The university is notably transparent, publishing a comprehensive Hazing Violations webpage (hazing.utexas.edu) that lists organizations, specific hazing conduct, and sanctions imposed. Reporting channels include the Office of the Dean of Students, the UT Police Department (UTPD), and anonymous reporting options.

5.3.3 Example Incidents & Response

UT Austin’s public Hazing Violations page lists numerous incidents over the years, providing a stark record of ongoing challenges:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): The chapter was found in violation for hazing new members by directing them to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics, activities deemed by the university to create mental and physical discomfort. The chapter was placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education.
• Texas Cowboys (2018): This influential spirit organization has faced repeated sanctions. One notable incident in 2018 involved a hazing activity that contributed to the death of a “new man” during a distracted driving accident, with allegations of sleep deprivation. Further investigations revealed a pattern of alcohol-related hazing, forced calisthenics, and other prohibited activities.
• Texas Wranglers (various years): Similarly, the Texas Wranglers have faced disciplinary action for hazing, involving practices like forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, and other punishment-based initiations that violated university policies.
• Historically, UT has tragically documented hazing deaths, like the 1928 electrocution of pledge Nolte McElroy at Delta Kappa Epsilon during a ritual involving live wires.

The sheer volume and recurring nature of violations on UT’s public log, despite its transparency, highlight the persistent problem of hazing even at institutions with robust policies.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed

Legal action stemming from hazing at UT Austin would typically be initiated in Travis County. Criminal investigations could involve the UTPD or the Austin Police Department, depending on the incident’s location and severity. Civil lawsuits against individuals, local chapters, national organizations, or The University of Texas, its Board of Regents, or specific university personnel would generally be filed in the state district courts of Travis County. Ut’s public record of hazing violations can be a powerful tool for civil litigation, establishing patterns of misconduct and prior notice that strengthen arguments for negligence.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

• Review UT’s Hazing Violations Page: Families in Texas should regularly check UT’s public record of hazing incidents (hazing.utexas.edu) for any organization their child considers joining.
• Understand Reporting: Utilize UT’s official reporting channels (Dean of Students, UTPD, anonymous online forms). Given the university’s transparency, a comprehensive internal investigation might lead to valuable documentation.
• Preserve Evidence Meticulously: Document all hazing activities, injuries, and communications digitally and physically. UT’s own record of past incidents provides a framework for understanding what types of evidence are relevant.
• Engage Experienced Texas Legal Counsel: Contact a Texas hazing attorney with detailed knowledge of UT Austin’s policies and specific experience with hazing litigation in Travis County. An attorney can help leverage the university’s public data and guide you through the process effectively. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential evaluation.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a private institution nestled in Dallas, exudes a distinctive aura of tradition, academic prestige, and a vibrant social scene, heavily influenced by its active Greek life. For families in Texas, especially those in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, SMU represents a significant investment in education, and with that comes a heightened concern for student safety. Cases here would typically fall under Dallas County civil and criminal jurisdiction.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is home to over 12,000 students, boasting a strong sense of community and pride. Its Greek system is particularly prominent, with a high percentage of undergraduates participating in fraternities and sororities. The social landscape includes numerous clubs, athletic teams, and spirit organizations, all contributing to a culture that, while often promoting school spirit and philanthropy, must also navigate the inherent risks of hazing.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

SMU maintains a strict anti-hazing policy that is clearly communicated to students and organizations. It prohibits any behavior that involves physical abuse, mental stress, forced consumption of substances, or any degrading activities for the purpose of initiation or membership. As a private university, SMU’s accountability mechanisms differ somewhat from public institutions. Reporting can be made through the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, the SMU Police Department, or anonymous reporting options like “PonyUp Reporting.” SMU does not publicly list specific hazing violations in the same detailed manner as some public universities, but it does enforce sanctions internally.

5.4.3 Example Incidents & Response

SMU has also faced its share of hazing allegations over the years, leading to university sanctions and suspensions for various organizations:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): This fraternity faced severe penalties following allegations of hazing that included paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation. The chapter was suspended, and restrictions were placed on its recruiting activities for several years, highlighting SMU’s response to serious misconduct.
• Other Greek and Student Organizations: SMU’s student conduct records, though not publicly detailed, indicate various organizations have periodically faced disciplinary actions for hazing-related violations, underscoring the ongoing challenge across its campus. These typically involve alcohol misuse, physical endurance tasks, and demeaning rituals.

These incidents demonstrate SMU’s commitment to addressing hazing within its community, even if its internal processes lead to less public transparency than some state-funded institutions.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed

Legal proceedings for hazing incidents at SMU would typically take place in Dallas County. Criminal investigations could involve the SMU Police Department or the Dallas Police Department. Civil lawsuits, which are aimed at securing compensation for victims, would be heard in the state district courts of Dallas County. As a private institution, SMU generally has fewer sovereign immunity protections than public universities. This means that, depending on the facts, the university itself might be a more direct defendant in civil litigation, alongside individual students, local chapters, and national organizations. Knowledge of prior incidents, even if not publicly disclosed by SMU, can often be uncovered during the discovery phase of a civil lawsuit.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

• Review SMU’s Policies: Understand the explicit anti-hazing policies and the Code of Conduct that governs all student organizations at SMU.
• Use Reporting Channels: If you suspect hazing, utilize SMU’s reporting mechanisms via the Office of Student Conduct or its anonymous reporting options. Documenting your report is crucial.
• Prioritize Evidence Collection: Should hazing occur, immediately collect and preserve all relevant evidence including photos, videos, and digital communications involving group chats or social media platforms commonly used by students in Dallas (e.g., Snapchat, GroupMe).
• Seek Specialized Legal Advice: For families in Texas dealing with hazing at SMU, it is vital to contact a hazing attorney experienced with private university litigation in Dallas County. An attorney can help navigate SMU’s internal processes and advise on the most effective path to legal accountability, including compelling the discovery of internal documents. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential consultation.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Baptist university in Waco, holds a unique position among Texas institutions. Known for its strong spiritual foundation, academic programs, and passionate athletic teams, Baylor’s campus culture is vibrant. However, like many other universities, it has had to grapple with allegations of hazing, which can be particularly jarring given its stated values. For Texas families, including those in Texas where students might attend Baylor, incidents here would fall under McLennan County civil and criminal jurisdiction.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor University enrolls over 21,000 students and prides itself on its Christian mission and values-based education. It hosts a diverse array of student organizations, including fraternities and sororities, numerous campus ministries, and highly competitive athletic programs. The university’s strong culture of tradition and community, while fostering positive connections, can also create conditions where hazing rituals are perpetuated under the guise of “building character” or “bonding.”

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University maintains a strict anti-hazing policy, explicitly defining and prohibiting any activity that causes mental or physical harm in connection with initiation or membership in any student organization. The policy emphasizes the university’s commitment to a safe environment consistent with its Christian mission. Reporting channels include the Office of Student Conduct, Baylor Police Department (BUPD), and an ethics and compliance hotline. As a private institution, Baylor manages its disciplinary actions internally, though serious incidents can become public through media or legal action.

5.5.3 Example Incidents & Response

Baylor’s history, particularly in the wake of its high-profile sexual assault scandal, highlights the critical importance of institutional oversight and accountability. While Baylor has publicly emphasized “zero tolerance” for misconduct, incidents still occur:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): In 2020, the Baylor baseball team faced significant scrutiny after a hazing investigation led to the suspension of 14 players. The suspensions were staggered to minimize visible impact on the team, but the incident underscored that hazing traditions can fester even in highly competitive athletic programs at institutions committed to strong ethical frameworks.
• Historical Hazing (1967): Tragically, Baylor University has a documented hazing death. In 1967, John E. Clifton died while attempting to consume a foul concoction and laxatives as demanded by members of the Baylor Chamber of Commerce, a social club. Despite authorities ruling the incident an accident, and the university president initially denying it was hazing, the incident reflects a historical pattern of dangerous rituals.

These examples illustrate that even with strong values and lessons from past scandals, institutions like Baylor must continually work to enforce policies, ensure transparency, and protect students from insidious hazing practices.

5.5.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed

Legal actions related to hazing at Baylor University would typically fall under the jurisdiction of McLennan County, where Waco is located. Criminal investigations could involve the BUPD or the Waco Police Department. Civil lawsuits seeking compensation for victims would likely be filed in the state district courts of McLennan County. Similar to SMU, as a private university, Baylor does not benefit from sovereign immunity in the same way public institutions do, which can impact the legal strategy for plaintiffs. Effective civil litigation against Baylor and its affiliated organizations would involve compelling discovery to access internal investigation reports, disciplinary records, and communications that shed light on the university’s knowledge and actions (or inactions) regarding hazing.

5.5.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

• Align with Baylor’s Values (Realistically): While Baylor emphasizes strong values, parents in Texas should ensure that any student organizations claiming to uphold these values are genuinely free of harmful hazing practices.
• Use Internal Reporting: Should hazing occur, utilize Baylor’s Office of Student Conduct or its ethics hotline. Understanding the internal investigatory process is key, but it should not deter you from seeking external legal advice.
• Meticulous Evidence Collection: Preserve all digital evidence (texts, photos, videos, social media activity) and document any physical or emotional harm, as this will be critical for any legal claims in McLennan County.
• Consult Expertise in Private University Litigation: Contact a Texas hazing attorney with specific experience navigating private university hazing cases. Such an attorney can provide guidance on compelling information during discovery and understand the nuances of litigation against private institutions. Call Attorney911 on 1-888-ATTY-911 for confidential assistance.

6. Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

For families in Texas, understanding the role of fraternities and sororities in hazing extends beyond the local chapter. These student organizations are often part of vast national networks, and their histories of misconduct, even at distant campuses, can have profound implications for accountability in Texas. When hazing occurs at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor, it’s not just a local problem—it often reflects systemic issues within national organizations.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

Most fraternities and sororities with chapters at Texas universities are affiliated with national or international organizations. These national bodies typically:

• Set policies and standards: They develop anti-hazing rules, risk management guidelines, and conduct education for their chapters.
• Receive dues and provide oversight: National headquarters collect significant revenue from their chapters and, in return, are expected to provide supervision, support, and enforce their policies.
• Accumulate a history of incidents: Crucially, many national organizations have a documented history of hazing incidents, injuries, and even deaths at multiple campuses across the country.

When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous hazing script that previously led to injury, death, or legal action at another chapter in a different state, it creates a powerful legal argument: foreseeability. It demonstrates that the national organization knew or should have known about the risks of such hazing but failed to prevent it. This knowledge can form the basis for claims of negligence, gross negligence, and even punitive damages, as it proves that the national entity had prior warnings and failed in its duty to protect students.

6.2 Organization Mapping (Synthesized)

Below, we highlight some national Greek organizations active at Texas universities that have significant national hazing histories. This is not to imply that every chapter of these organizations engages in hazing, nor that other organizations are immune. Rather, it illustrates how national patterns inform local risks and legal strategies.

• Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike):

  • Identity: A large national fraternity with chapters across the U.S.
  • Noted National History: Pi Kappa Alpha has a deeply troubling history of hazing, particularly involving forced alcohol consumption during “Big/Little” events. The tragic 2021 death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University resulted from him being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey, leading to eight members being charged and Stone’s family receiving an approximate $10 million settlement (nearly $7 million from the national fraternity). Another fatal incident involved the 2012 alcohol poisoning death of David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University, which led to a $14 million settlement. These cases clearly illustrate a pattern of extreme alcohol hazing within the organization.

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE):

  • Identity: One of the largest national fraternities, often referred to as “America’s deadliest fraternity” by some media outlets due to its history.
  • Noted National History: SAE has faced multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide involving alcohol poisoning and physical abuse. Pledges at their Texas A&M chapter filed a $1 million lawsuit in 2021, alleging they suffered severe chemical burns from industrial cleaner and other substances poured on them during hazing, requiring skin grafts. In January 2024, an exchange student sued the UT Austin chapter for significant injuries sustained during an alleged assault. Nationally, SAE’s history includes the 2008 alcohol poisoning death of Carson Starkey at Cal Poly. These incidents paint a clear picture of a national organization with a recurring pattern of dangerous hazing.

• Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ):

  • Identity: Another major national fraternity with a strong presence on many campuses.
  • Noted National History: Phi Delta Theta is tragically linked to the 2017 alcohol poisoning death of Max Gruver at Louisiana State University. Max died following a “Bible study” drinking game where he was forced to consume large amounts of alcohol as punishment. This case led to criminal convictions and the passage of the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing law in Louisiana. The patterns seen in Max’s death align with other alcohol-related hazing incidents that have occurred within Phi Delta Theta chapters nationally.

• Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ):

  • Identity: A national fraternity with a commitment to philanthropy and leadership.
  • Noted National History: Pi Kappa Phi has unfortunately been tied to several severe hazing incidents, most notably the 2017 alcohol poisoning death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University during a “Big Brother Night” event. More recently, in a case handled by Attorney911, the University of Houston’s Beta Nu chapter became the subject of a $10 million lawsuit in late 2025 on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, who suffered acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis after alleged severe hazing (including being sprayed with a hose “similar to waterboarding” and forced physical exertion), leading to the chapter’s dissolution. These tragedies underscore a pattern of dangerous alcohol and physical hazing.

• Kappa Alpha Order (KA):

  • Identity: A traditional national fraternity with a strong presence in the South, often emphasizing chivalry.
  • Noted National History: Kappa Alpha Order has faced multiple hazing-related suspensions and allegations nationally, including incidents at SMU in 2017 where pledges reportedly endured paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation. While not linked to as many high-profile deaths as some others, the consistent allegations of physical and alcohol-related hazing across various chapters indicate a history of misconduct that national headquarters are aware of.

• Sigma Chi (ΣΧ):

  • Identity: A prominent national fraternity known for its extensive network.
  • Noted National History: Sigma Chi chapters have faced hazing accusations, with a notable example being a 2024 case at the College of Charleston where a family received more than $10 million in damages after a pledge alleged physical beatings, forced drug and alcohol consumption, and psychological torment. The University of Texas at Arlington chapter also faced legal action in 2020 after a pledge was hospitalized with alcohol poisoning due to hazing. These cases demonstrate a pattern of severe hazing with multi-million dollar consequences.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

For families in Texas, understanding these national histories profoundly impacts legal strategy:

• Foreseeability: When a national organization’s chapters repeatedly engage in similar dangerous hazing, it demonstrates that the national headquarters had prior notice of these risks. This makes it challenging for them to claim they “couldn’t have known” or that a local incident was “unforeseeable.”
• Negligence Claims: A history of hazing at other chapters strengthens arguments that the national organization was negligent in its supervision, training, or enforcement of anti-hazing policies for its chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor.
• Punitive Damages: In some cases, a long and unaddressed history of similar hazing can support claims for punitive damages, which are designed to punish egregious conduct and deter future wrongdoing.
• Insurance Coverage: Evidence of national patterns can also influence insurance coverage disputes, as it may demonstrate a failure to adequately manage risk that could void certain policy defenses.

Attorney911’s approach to hazing litigation involves thoroughly investigating these national histories to expose patterns of misconduct and hold all responsible parties—from individual students to powerful national organizations and universities—fully accountable.

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

For Texas families navigating the aftermath of hazing, building a strong legal case is about more than just telling a story; it’s about meticulously collecting evidence, understanding the full scope of damages, and strategically pursuing accountability against often powerful institutions. Attorney911 approaches each hazing case with the rigor of a complex litigation, recognizing that evidence disappears fast and defendants will fight aggressively.

7.1 Evidence

In any hazing case, evidence is king. The strength of your claim hinges on verifiable facts, documented incidents, and credible testimony. Modern hazing has left a clear digital footprint that is often the most critical evidence.

• Digital Communications: These are often the “smoking gun” in today’s hazing cases, revealing planning, coercion, humiliation, and cover-ups. We prioritize preserving:

  • GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage/SMS: These are primary channels where directives are given, events are planned, and pledges communicate their distress. Screenshots should capture full conversations, names/profiles, and timestamps.
  • Discord, Slack, Fraternity/Sorority-specific Apps: Many organizations use these for communication, and they can contain vital evidence.
  • Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok DMs: Direct messages often carry explicit instructions or threats.
  • Evidence of Deletion: Even attempts to delete messages can be evidence if digital forensics can show a concerted effort to destroy information.

• Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is incredibly powerful. This includes:

  • Content filmed by Perpetrators: Members often record hazing acts themselves, which can then be shared in private group chats or temporarily on social media.
  • Witness Visuals: Photos or videos taken by pledges, other members, or bystanders, showing hazing events, locations, or injuries.
  • Security Camera Footage: From university campuses, off-campus houses, bars, or event venues (often overwritten quickly, requiring immediate preservation efforts).
  • Injury Photos: Detailed, dated photos of physical injuries, taken from multiple angles and with scale references (like a coin), and showing progression over time.

• Internal Organization Documents: These can reveal official policies, or lack thereof, and internal communications:

  • Pledge Manuals/Handbooks: May contain euphemistic language for hazing, or “official” rules that were clearly subverted.
  • Initiation Scripts/Ritual Guides: Can show planned activities, especially if they deviate from national policy.
  • Emails/Texts from Officers: Direct communications about “new member education,” “traditions,” or hazing events.
  • National Policies/Training Materials: Used to establish what the national organization knew and what standards it expected of its chapters.

• University Records: These demonstrate the institution’s knowledge, actions, and failures:

  • Student Conduct Files: Records of prior hazing violations, probations, suspensions, and other disciplinary actions against the same chapter or individuals.
  • Campus Police Reports: Incident reports related to the organization or individuals involved.
  • Public Records Requests (FOIA/Texas Public Information Act): Can compel public universities to release documents, emails, and disciplinary records relevant to their knowledge of hazing.
  • Clery Act & Title IX Records: Reports of hazing-related crimes or gender-based discrimination.

• Medical and Psychological Records: Crucial for documenting the extent of physical and mental harm:

  • Emergency Room/Hospital Records: Detailed accounts of injuries, toxicology reports, diagnoses (e.g., rhabdomyolysis, alcohol poisoning).
  • Ongoing Treatment Notes: From physicians, physical therapists, and specialists.
  • Psychological Evaluations: Documentation of conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety, or traumatic brain injury. Telling medical providers how an injury occurred (“I was forced to drink”) is vital for this documentation.

• Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts are irreplaceable:

  • Other Pledges/New Members: Often the most direct witnesses to hazing.
  • Current or Former Members: Who may have participated or observed.
  • Bystanders: Anyone who saw relevant events at the hazing location.
  • University Staff/Faculty: Who may have observed or received complaints about hazing.

7.2 Damages

In civil hazing lawsuits, an individual or family can seek to recover various categories of damages, compensating for the full spectrum of harm suffered. Attorney911 works with experts to meticulously calculate these losses, ensuring that no aspect of suffering goes unaddressed.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This category covers all costs associated with health, both current and future.

  • Past Medical Expenses: Emergency room visits, ambulance transport, hospitalization (ICU, surgery), medications, and initial therapies.
  • Future Medical Expenses: Long-term physical therapy, psychological counseling for trauma (PTSD, depression), prescribed medications, future surgeries, and specialized care plans, which can be astronomical in cases of catastrophic injury (e.g., permanent brain damage, kidney failure).

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Horrific hazing can derail a student’s academic and career trajectory.

  • Lost Wages: For the victim, if they missed work, or for parents who had to take time off to provide care.
  • Lost Educational Opportunities: Reimbursement for tuition and fees for semesters missed or dropped, lost academic or athletic scholarships, and compensation for delayed graduation, which directly impacts entry into the workforce.
  • Diminished Future Earning Capacity: If injuries (physical or psychological) are permanent, experts calculate the lost income potential over the victim’s lifetime.

• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for intangible, yet profoundly impactful, forms of suffering.

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: The agony of injuries, from broken bones to organ damage, and chronic pain.
  • Emotional Distress & Trauma: Humiliation, shame, severe anxiety, PTSD, depression, nightmares, fear, and loss of trust. Psychological evaluations are critical here.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to engage in activities once loved, social withdrawal, impaired relationships, and the diminished quality of life caused by the hazing.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the most tragic cases, families can seek compensation for the loss of their loved one. In the Leonel Bermudez case, Attorney911 is seeking over $10 million in damages.

  • Funeral and Burial Costs: Direct expenses related to the death.
  • Loss of Companionship, Love, and Society: The profound emotional void left by the deceased.
  • Loss of Financial Support: If the deceased would have contributed financially to the family.
  • Grief and Emotional Suffering: For the severe emotional pain experienced by surviving family members.

• Punitive Damages: While not always awarded and often capped by Texas law (except in cases of intentional torts), punitive damages are designed to punish egregious conduct and deter future similar actions. They are typically pursued when defendants displayed gross negligence, willful misconduct, or a blatant disregard for safety, especially after prior warnings or known risks.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Hazing cases often involve multiple defendants, each with their own legal and financial responsibilities, often complicated by insurance policies.

• The Players: Individual students, local chapters, national organizations, and universities frequently have legal representation funded by insurance. Landlords or third-party venue owners may also be defendants.
• Insurance as a Shield: Insurance companies, representing fraternities, universities, and individuals, commonly try to deny coverage or minimize payouts by arguing:
  • Hazing constitutes “intentional acts” or “criminal activity” and is thus excluded from policy coverage.
  • The incident occurred off-premises, thereby absolving the policyholder.
  • The specific policy does not cover certain named defendants.
• Attorney911’s Advantage: Lupe Peña, one of Attorney911’s lead attorneys, spent years as an insurance defense lawyer for major national firms. She knows the insurance industry’s tactics inside and out—their arguments, their delay strategies, and their methods for undervaluing claims. This insider knowledge allows Attorney911 to:
  • Anticipate and effectively counter insurance company defenses.
  • Identify all possible layers of coverage across multiple policies.
  • Force insurance companies to honor their obligations, whether through aggressive negotiation or, if necessary, litigation.
  • Argue that while the hazing itself might be intentional, the failure to supervise or prevent it constitutes negligence, which is covered by insurance.

Navigating these complexities requires a legal team with not only deep knowledge of hazing law but also sophisticated experience in insurance litigation.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

When hazing strikes, families in Texas are often left confused, scared, and unsure of where to turn. This section provides immediate, actionable guidance, whether you are a parent, a student, or a witness.

8.1 For Parents

For parents across Texas, recognizing the subtle signs of hazing and knowing how to respond is crucial. Your intervention can be the difference between a close call and a lifelong trauma.

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

• Physical Changes: Look for unexplained bruises, welts, burns, or cuts, especially if their explanations seem vague or inconsistent. Notice extreme fatigue, exhaustion, or rapid weight fluctuations. Pay attention to signs of sleep deprivation, such as frequent napping or difficulty concentrating.
• Behavioral & Emotional Shifts: A sudden increase in secrecy around their organization, withdrawal from family or old friends, and marked personality changes (e.g., increased anxiety, irritability, depression) are red flags. If they express fear of “getting in trouble” or constantly check their phone for messages, they may be under undue pressure.
• Academic Decline: A sudden drop in grades, missed classes, or prioritizing organization activities over academics can indicate overwhelming demands.
• Digital Red Flags: Increased anxiety around their phone, constant group chat activity, or hastily deleting messages can signal a digital hazing environment.

How to Talk to Your Child (and What to Do if You Hear Something):

• Approach with Empathy: Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with [organization name]?” Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priority, not “getting them in trouble.”
• Listen Without Judgment: If they open up, listen calmly and validate their feelings. Reassure them you will support them, regardless of what they tell you.
• Document Immediately: If they share details or show you messages/photos, screenshot everything. Write down dates, times, and specific incidents. These contemporaneous notes are powerful evidence.
• Prioritize Medical Care: If your child is injured, intoxicated, or experiencing severe psychological distress, seek immediate medical attention. Their health comes first, and Texas law often protects individuals who call for help in good faith.

8.2 For Students / Pledges

If you’re a student in Texas, perhaps at UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor, and you’re questioning whether what you’re experiencing or observing is hazing, trust your instincts.

Is This Hazing or Just “Tradition”? A Self-Assessment:

• The “Consent” Test: Are you truly choosing to participate, or do you feel pressured, obligated, or fear consequences if you say no? Would you do this if your family or university officials were watching? If not, it’s likely hazing.
• The “Secrecy” Test: Are you being told to keep secrets from non-members, older members’ parents, or university officials? Secrecy is a hallmark of hazing.
• The “Humiliation/Endangerment” Test: Does the activity cause you physical discomfort, mental stress, humiliation, embarrassment, or endanger your safety? Texas law, remember, explicitly states that consent is no defense in hazing.

Exiting and Reporting Safely:

• You have the right to leave any organization at any time without penalty or harassment.
• Prioritize your safety. If you feel physically or mentally unsafe, remove yourself from the situation. Go to your dorm, a trusted friend’s place, or any public area.
• Tell someone outside the organization first: A parent, a resident advisor (RA), a trusted professor, or a non-Greek friend. This creates a record and support system.
• Report anonymously: Consider using your university’s anonymous reporting systems or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE.
• Document Everything: Even if you plan to leave quietly, safeguard any digital evidence (screenshots of chats, photos of injuries, etc.) and personal notes. This protects you if any retaliation occurs.

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

• Good-Faith Reporter Immunity: Texas law (and many university policies) protects you if you call 911 for a medical emergency, even if you or others were consuming alcohol underage or involved in illegal activities.
• Victim, Not Perpetrator: If you’ve been hazed, you are a victim. The law recognizes the coercive nature of these situations.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you were once part of a hazing incident, either as a victim, a participant, or a witness, and now feel remorse or a desire to speak out, your testimony can be invaluable.

• Your Role in Accountability: Your courage to come forward can prevent future harm, save lives, and force institutions to enact meaningful change.
• Finding Your Voice: Contacting a hazing attorney can provide a safe, confidential space to discuss what you know. They can guide you through the process, explain your protections, and navigate how your testimony might be used.
• Legal Protections: Texas law provides some immunity for good-faith reporters of hazing incidents. Depending on your involvement, an attorney can advise you on your own potential legal exposure, if any, and help protect your interests.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For any Texas family pursuing a hazing claim, the initial steps are critical. Even well-intentioned actions can inadvertently sabotage a potential lawsuit. Attorney911’s video on client mistakes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) explains many critical errors to avoid.

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence:

   • What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Deleting evidence (digital or physical) can be viewed as obstruction of justice and makes proving a case nearly impossible. It also looks like a cover-up.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing or supposedly incriminating content. Screenshots of group chats, photos of injuries, and any physical items are invaluable.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What families think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Direct confrontation will immediately alert the organization’s leadership. They will promptly seek legal counsel, instruct members to remain silent or delete evidence, and begin building their defense.
   • What to do instead: If you suspect hazing, your first step after ensuring immediate safety should be to contact an attorney. Let your legal team manage all communication with the organization.

3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms:

   • What universities do: Institutions often pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements as part of their disciplinary process.
   • Why it’s wrong: These documents might inadvertently waive your right to pursue a civil lawsuit, and any internal compensation or “settlement” offered is likely to be far below the true value of your damages.
   • What to do instead: Never sign any document from the university or organization without legal advice. An attorney must review these forms to protect your rights.

4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer:

   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Anything posted publicly can be used by the defense. Inconsistencies between public statements and later legal testimony can severely hurt credibility. Public posts can also inadvertently waive privacy rights.
   • What to do instead: Document everything privately and meticulously. Discuss public statements or media engagement with your attorney to control the narrative strategically.

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”:

   • What organizations say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic.”
   • Why it’s wrong: These meetings are often designed to pressure the victim, intimidate them into silence, or extract statements that can be twisted and used against them in legal proceedings.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication with the organization, its members, or its representatives should be handled by your attorney.

6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it”:

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: University investigations are focused on policy violations, not criminal prosecution or civil compensation. Evidence can disappear, witnesses graduate, and crucial legal deadlines (statutes of limitations) can pass while you wait.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence immediately and consult a lawyer. While university processes may run concurrently, they are not a substitute for pursuing full legal accountability.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters represent the interests of the defendants, not yours. Any statement you give, even seemingly innocent ones, can be used to minimize your injuries or deny your claim. Early settlement offers are often lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak with adjusters directly and inform them that your attorney will contact them.

8.5 Short FAQ

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities like UH, Texas A&M, and UT have some sovereign immunity protections, which can make suing them directly more challenging. However, exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, or by suing individual employees in their personal capacity when their actions exceed their official duties. Private universities like SMU and Baylor have fewer immunity protections. Every case is unique, and specific facts determine liability. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

“Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
It absolutely can be. While Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, it escalates to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who fail to report hazing can also face misdemeanor charges. This means that severe hazing can lead to prison time for perpetrators.

“Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing charges or a civil claim. The law recognizes that true voluntary consent is impossible when a student is under pressure to join a group, fears exclusion, or is subjected to power imbalances and coercion.

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas?”
Generally, you have 2 years from the date of injury or death to file a hazing lawsuit in Texas. This is known as the statute of limitations. However, unique circumstances like the “discovery rule” (if the injury or its cause wasn’t immediately known) or fraudulent concealment (if defendants actively hid hazing) might extend this period. Because evidence disappears, memories fade, and legal deadlines are strict, time is critical. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to protect your rights.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
The location of hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities/sororities can still be held liable if they sponsored the organization, had knowledge of off-campus hazing, or failed to enforce policies that extended beyond campus grounds. Many major hazing cases nationally have occurred at off-campus residences and retreats, resulting in multi-million-dollar judgments against both chapters and national organizations.

“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases settle out of court, and settlements often include confidentiality clauses that protect the victim’s privacy. While high-profile cases might attract media attention, Attorney911 prioritizes your family’s privacy and works to keep the identities of victims confidential where possible. We can discuss strategies for navigating publicity during your consultation.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family faces a hazing case in Texas, whether at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other institution, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful university systems and national Greek organizations fight back—attorneys who know how to win anyway. Attorney911 provides that unique blend of legal prowess, insider knowledge, and dedicated advocacy right here in Texas.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases:

At The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, operating as Attorney911, we approach hazing litigation from a position of profound strength and deep experience.

Our lead attorney, Lupe Peña, brings an invaluable “insurance insider” advantage. Before joining our team, Lupe was an insurance defense attorney at a major national defense firm. She knows precisely how fraternity and university insurance companies value—and undervalue—hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, their coverage exclusion arguments, and their intricate settlement strategies because she used to run their playbook. This unique perspective allows us to anticipate their moves, counter their arguments effectively, and maximize recovery for our clients. Lupe Peña’s complete credentials are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has a career defined by complex litigation against massive institutions. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, a monumental case against a multi-billion-dollar corporation. This experience, coupled with extensive federal court practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, university legal teams, or their deep pockets. We know how to take on powerful defendants—we’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won, constantly pushing for accountability. Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

Our firm’s track record includes multi-million dollar wrongful death and catastrophic injury results. We have extensive experience—over 25 years—valuing lifetime care needs for severe injuries like traumatic brain injury or permanent organ damage, often collaborating with economists to ensure every dollar of future loss is accounted for. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force accountability and lasting change. To help clients understand the financial aspects, we also have a video explaining contingency fees (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc), showing that we don’t get paid unless we win.

Moreover, our expertise spans both criminal and civil hazing. Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) provides a crucial understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. We can advise not only victims but also witnesses or former members who may face legal exposure, guiding them through the complex interplay of criminal and civil legal tracks.

From our primary office in Houston, we extend our services across Texas, with additional offices in Austin and Beaumont. We possess the investigative depth to uncover hidden truths, from subpoenaing old group chats and deleted social media evidence to compelling national fraternity records and university files. We work with digital forensics experts, medical experts, and psychologists to construct irrefutable cases. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does, and because we know the future of hazing awareness depends on it. Watch our video on effectively documenting a legal case with your cellphone at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs.

We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our approach is characterized by empathy and unwavering victim advocacy. We are here to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family.

Call Attorney911 Today for a Confidential Consultation.

If your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—whether it’s the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or another school—we want to hear from you. Families throughout Texas have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide the best path forward without judgment. You owe it to your child, and to yourself, to understand your rights.

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story with empathy and without judgment.
• We’ll review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records). We also have a video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY).
• We will explain your legal options: pursuing a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what to expect during a hazing investigation and litigation.
• We will answer your questions about costs. We work on a contingency fee basis – meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot; take the time you need to decide.
• Everything you tell us is completely confidential. Read our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” to understand why timing is crucial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c.

Whether you’re in Texas or anywhere across our great state, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone.

Contact Attorney911 Today:

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

Hablamos Español: Contact Lupe Peña directly for consultation in Spanish.
Email Lupe: lupe@atty911.com

Final Note on Accountability: Reading this article does not create an attorney–client relationship. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts. An experienced attorney can review your specific situation, explain your rights under Texas law, and help you understand your best options for accountability and justice. Call us today.

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