Hazing Incident Guide for Town of Alma, Texas Families: Legal Options, Campus Histories & Fraternity Accountability

A Message to Town of Alma Parents About Campus Hazing

Imagine your child, sent off to a Texas university with pride and hope, calls you late one night. Their voice is shaky, hesitant. They tell you about a “pledge event” that went too far—forced drinking, humiliation, physical demands that left them injured and scared. They’re afraid to report it, afraid of retaliation from the fraternity brothers they wanted to join, and worried about getting the university involved. For parents in Town of Alma, Waxahachie, Ennis, and across Ellis County, this nightmare scenario has become a reality for Texas families, and it demands serious understanding and action.

Right now, in Harris County, we’re actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas: the Leonel Bermudez University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit. This $10 million hazing and abuse case represents exactly what can happen when fraternity traditions turn violent and institutional oversight fails. Bermudez, a UH student, developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after enduring extreme physical hazing that included forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” and completing 100+ push-ups and 500 squats under threat of expulsion. His urine turned brown, he required four days of hospitalization, and he faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter was suspended and then closed, with members voting to surrender their charter—but only after catastrophic harm occurred.

This comprehensive guide explains what Texas parents in Town of Alma, Ellis County, and throughout our region need to know about hazing in 2025: what it really looks like, how Texas law addresses it, what’s happening at universities where your children may attend, and what legal options exist for families facing this crisis. We serve families across Texas from our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices, including those in Town of Alma and throughout Ellis County who are dealing with the aftermath of campus hazing.

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 in Texas

Hazing has evolved far beyond the stereotype of harmless pranks or simple initiation rituals. For families in Town of Alma and across Ellis County, understanding the modern reality of hazing is critical to recognizing when your child might be in danger.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

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. Under Texas law (Education Code Chapter 37), hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that endangers mental or physical health and occurs for purposes of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership.

The critical point Texas parents must understand: “I agreed to it” does not automatically make it safe or legal when there is peer pressure and power imbalance. Texas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing charges.

Main Categories of Modern Hazing

Alcohol and Substance Hazing

Forced or coerced drinking games like “lineups,” “century club,” or “family tree” drinking
Chugging challenges where pledges must finish bottles or handles of liquor
Being pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances
“Big/Little” nights where pledges drink to dangerous levels to prove loyalty

Physical Hazing

Paddling and beatings, often with wooden paddles
Extreme calisthenics or “smokings” far beyond normal conditioning (like the 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in the UH Pi Kappa Phi case)
Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions” or early-morning workouts
Food/water deprivation or forced consumption of disgusting substances
Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

Forced nudity or partial nudity during rituals
Simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions, degrading costumes
Acts with racial or sexist overtones, slurs, or role-play
Being forced to carry humiliating items (like the “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms and sex toys in the UH case)

Psychological Hazing

Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
Manipulation or forced confessions of personal information
Public shaming in meetings or on social media
“Silent treatment” or social ostracization for perceived failures

Digital/Online Hazing

Group chat dares, “challenges,” and public humiliation via Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord
Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos
24/7 availability demands via GroupMe or WhatsApp
Geo-tracking requirements using Find My Friends or Life360

Where Hazing Actually Happens in Texas

While fraternities receive most media attention, hazing occurs in multiple campus organizations:

Fraternities and sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural groups)
Corps of Cadets / ROTC / military-style groups (particularly at Texas A&M)
Spirit squads and tradition clubs (Texas Cowboys, cheer teams, dance teams)
Athletic teams (football, basketball, baseball, soccer, cheer)
Marching bands and performance groups
Service organizations, cultural groups, and some academic organizations

For families in Town of Alma sending students to Texas universities, understanding that hazing extends beyond Greek life is crucial. The social status, tradition, and secrecy surrounding these organizations keep dangerous practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Law & Liability Framework: What Town of Alma Families Need to Know

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code Chapter 37)

Texas has specific anti-hazing provisions in the Education Code that provide both criminal penalties and civil liability pathways. For parents in Town of Alma and across Ellis County, understanding these laws is essential for protecting your children.

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

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

Plain English Translation:
If someone makes your child do something dangerous, harmful, or degrading to join or stay in a group, and they meant to do it or were reckless about the risk, that’s hazing under Texas law. Key points:

Can happen on or off campus (location doesn’t matter)
Can be mental or physical harm
Intent: Doesn’t have to be malicious; “reckless” is enough (knew the risk and did it anyway)
“Consent” is not a defense: Even if your child agreed, it’s still hazing if it meets the definition

Criminal Penalties Under Texas Law

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties Summary:

Class B Misdemeanor (default): Hazing that doesn’t cause serious injury (up to 180 days jail, fine up to $2,000)
Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes injury that requires medical treatment
State Jail Felony: If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death

Additional Criminal Provisions:

Failing to report hazing (if you’re a member or officer and you knew about it): misdemeanor
Retaliating against someone who reports hazing: misdemeanor

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
Organizations (fraternities, sororities, clubs, teams) can be criminally prosecuted for hazing if:

The org authorized or encouraged the hazing, OR
An officer or member acting in official capacity knew about hazing and failed to report it

Penalties for organizations: Fine up to $10,000 per violation, plus university can revoke recognition and ban the org from campus. This shows that both individuals AND the organization can be held accountable criminally.

Criminal vs Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (prosecutor)
Aim: punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical hazing-related charges: hazing offenses, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
Burden of proof: “beyond a reasonable doubt”

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: monetary compensation and accountability
Focus on: negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring/supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
Burden of proof: “preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not)
Can proceed even if no criminal charges are filed

Both types can run side-by-side, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. In fact, many hazing cases result in civil lawsuits even when criminal prosecutions are limited.

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

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):
Requires colleges that receive federal aid to:

Report hazing incidents more transparently
Strengthen hazing education and prevention
Maintain public hazing data (phased in by around 2026)

Title IX / Clery Act:

When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations can be triggered
Clery requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics; hazing incidents often overlap with those categories when there are assaults or alcohol/drug crimes
Universities that fail to address hazing appropriately may face federal investigations

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

Individual Students:

Those who planned, supplied alcohol, carried out acts, or helped cover up
Chapter officers (president, pledgemaster, risk manager)
Active members who participated or failed to intervene

Local Chapter/Organization:

The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if it’s a legal entity)
Chapter housing corporations
Alumni boards that oversee chapter operations

National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

Organizations that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters
Liability hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents
Can be sued for negligent supervision, training, and oversight

University or Governing Board:

The school or regents may be sued under certain negligence or civil-rights theories
Key questions: prior warnings, policy enforcement, deliberate indifference
Both public (UH, Texas A&M, UT) and private (SMU, Baylor) universities can face liability

Third Parties:

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

Every case is fact-specific; not every party is liable in every situation. Our investigation determines which entities share responsibility.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Lessons for Texas Families

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

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

Bid-acceptance event with heavy drinking and dangerous games
Severe falls captured on chapter security cameras
18 fraternity members charged with over 1,000 criminal counts
Pennsylvania enacted Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law
Takeaway: Extreme intoxication, delayed medical care, and cover-up culture create devastating legal exposure

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

“Big Brother Night” event where pledge was given handle of liquor
Died from acute alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.447)
Multiple members prosecuted; FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life
Takeaway: Formulaic drinking traditions are repeating scripts for disaster

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)

“Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers meant forced drinking
Died from alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%)
Louisiana enacted Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony
Family secured $6.1 million verdict against fraternity
Takeaway: Legislative change follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing

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

Pledge forced to consume entire bottle of alcohol during “Big/Little” night
Died from alcohol poisoning
$10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Former chapter president ordered to pay $6.5 million personally
Takeaway: Universities and nationals face massive financial consequences

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

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

Pledge subjected to violent “glass ceiling” ritual during retreat
Blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled
Died from traumatic brain injury; help delayed
National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
Pi Delta Psi banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Takeaway: Off-campus retreats can be dangerous, and national orgs face criminal liability

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

18-year-old pledge forced to drink excessive alcohol during “pledge dad reveal”
Suffered severe, permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see; requires 24/7 care)
Settlements with 22 defendants, reportedly multi-million dollar total
Takeaway: Non-fatal injuries can still be catastrophic with lifetime care needs

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023-2025)

Former players alleged sexualized, racist hazing within football program
Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired, later settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
Takeaway: Hazing extends beyond Greek life to big-money athletic programs

Collin Wiant – Ohio University, Sigma Pi (2018)

Freshman died after collapsing at off-campus Sigma Pi house
Alleged hazing-related drug use (nitrous oxide) and abuse
Led to “Collin’s Law: The Anti-Hazing Act” in Ohio
Takeaway: Illegal drug use hazing creates additional criminal exposure

What These Cases Mean for Town of Alma Families

These national cases establish critical precedents that benefit Texas families:

Pattern evidence from similar incidents strengthens negligence claims
Settlement ranges provide guidance on case valuation ($1M-$14M for deaths, $375K-multi-million for serious injuries)
Individual liability extends to chapter officers personally
National organization responsibility is well-established in law
University accountability can be substantial even at public institutions

The common threads—forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, cover-ups—repeat across campuses nationwide. Texas families facing hazing at any university are operating in a legal landscape shaped by these hard-won lessons.

Texas University Focus: Where Town of Alma Students May Attend

Understanding the specific environments at Texas universities where your children may study is crucial for recognizing risks and knowing how to respond if hazing occurs.

Southwestern Assemblies of God University (Waxahachie, Ellis County)

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Located just minutes from Town of Alma in Waxahachie, Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) represents the most local option for Ellis County families. As a private Christian university with approximately 2,000 students, SAGU maintains conservative campus policies that explicitly prohibit “hazing in any form” in student conduct guidelines. While Greek life is not traditionally present at Assemblies of God institutions, campus organizations, ministry teams, athletic programs, and student leadership groups still carry hazing risks that Town of Alma parents should understand.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting:
SAGU’s Student Handbook states: “Hazing in any form is prohibited. Hazing is defined as any action taken or situation created intentionally, whether on or off campus, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule.” The university maintains reporting channels through Student Life offices, though as a private institution, disciplinary outcomes may not be publicly posted like at Texas public universities.

What SAGU Families Should Know:

Christian campus environments don’t eliminate hazing risks—it simply may take different forms
Ministry teams, mission groups, and athletic programs can develop harmful initiation traditions
The close-knit religious community can create additional pressure to remain silent
University policies typically provide for suspension or expulsion for hazing violations

How a SAGU Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Local jurisdiction: Ellis County courts and Waxahachie police
Civil suits could name individual students, organization sponsors, and potentially the university
As a private institution, SAGU doesn’t have sovereign immunity like public universities
Cases might involve unique dynamics around religious freedom and institutional religious character

Texas A&M University (College Station)

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Many Town of Alma and Ellis County families send students to Texas A&M University, where approximately 20% of undergraduates participate in Greek life, and the Corps of Cadets represents another significant tradition-heavy environment. The Aggie culture of tradition and loyalty, while often positive, can sometimes enable harmful behaviors under the guise of “building character” or “earning your place.”

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

Two pledges alleged being covered in substances including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit
Resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
Pledges sued fraternity for $1 million
Chapter suspended by university for two years

Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023):

Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts
Claimed being bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
Sought over $1 million in damages
Texas A&M stated it handled matter under its rules

University Response Systems:
Texas A&M maintains multiple reporting channels including:

Student Conduct Office for disciplinary proceedings
Corps of Cadets chain of command for military-style groups
Anonymous reporting through EthicsPoint system
University Police Department for criminal matters

How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Criminal jurisdiction: Brazos County and College Station PD
Civil venue: Brazos County courts or potentially federal court
Sovereign immunity considerations for public university
Multiple potential defendants: individuals, chapters, nationals, university
Corps cases involve unique military-style chain of command issues

University of Texas at Austin

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
UT Austin hosts approximately 60 fraternity and sorority chapters with deep historical roots and substantial campus influence. The university maintains one of Texas’s most transparent hazing reporting systems through its public Hazing Violations webpage, providing Town of Alma families valuable insight into organizational conduct records.

Public Hazing Violations Examples:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023):

New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
Found to be hazing violating university policy
Chapter placed on probation with required hazing-prevention education

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Assault Case (2024):

Australian exchange student alleged assault by fraternity members at party
Injuries included dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose
Student sued SAE chapter for over $1 million
Chapter already under suspension for prior hazing/safety violations

Texas Cowboys & Other Spirit Groups:
Multiple traditional spirit organizations appear on UT’s hazing log for violations including:

Forced strenuous physical activities
Alcohol-related hazing events
Psychological pressure and intimidation

Transparency Advantage:
UT’s public hazing violations log (hazing.utexas.edu) provides families with:

Organization names and violation dates
Descriptions of prohibited conduct
Sanctions imposed (probation, suspension, education requirements)
Pattern evidence that can support civil claims

How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Criminal jurisdiction: Travis County and UTPD
Civil venue: Travis County courts (Austin)
Strong discovery potential due to university’s record-keeping
Prior violations on public log strengthen pattern evidence arguments

University of Houston

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
As Texas’s third-largest university with an ethnically diverse student body, UH maintains active Greek systems across multiple councils: IFC fraternities, Panhellenic sororities, NPHC Divine Nine organizations, and multicultural groups. The urban commuter-campus dynamic creates different social pressures than residential colleges, but hazing risks remain significant.

Active Litigation Example – Leonel Bermudez Case:
We currently represent Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against:

University of Houston and UH System Board of Regents
Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters
Beta Nu housing corporation
13 individual fraternity leaders/members

Specific Hazing Conduct Documented:

“Pledge fanny pack” rule with degrading contents (condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices)
Enforced dress codes, hours-long “study/work” blocks, overnight driving duties
Cold-weather exposure in underwear, lying in vomit-soaked grass
Hose spraying in face “similar to waterboarding”
Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting
Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under expulsion threats
Another pledge hog-tied face-down with object in mouth for over hour

Medical Catastrophe:

Developed rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure
Passed brown urine, could not stand without help
Hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels
Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage

Institutional Response:

Nov 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspends Beta Nu chapter
Nov 14, 2025: Chapter members vote to surrender charter; chapter shut down
UH labels conduct “deeply disturbing,” promises disciplinary measures and cooperation with law enforcement

How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Criminal jurisdiction: Harris County and UHPD
Civil venue: Harris County courts (Houston)
Our active litigation demonstrates immediate capability
Urban campus creates complex evidence collection challenges

Southern Methodist University (Dallas)

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
SMU’s private university status, affluent student body, and strong Greek participation (approximately 40% of undergraduates) create a distinct environment where social status and tradition exert particularly strong influence. The university’s Dallas location places it within practical reach for Town of Alma families seeking private education options.

Documented Incident Example:

Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017):

New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep
Chapter suspended following investigation
Recruitment restrictions imposed until approximately 2021

Private University Considerations:

Less public transparency than state institutions
Different liability standards without sovereign immunity protections
Often substantial institutional resources for defense
Potential insurance coverage through private policies

Reporting Systems:
SMU maintains:

Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards
Anonymous reporting through Real Response system
Dedicated Greek Life office overseeing fraternity/sorority conduct
Dallas Police Department jurisdiction for off-campus incidents

How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Criminal jurisdiction: Dallas County and Dallas PD
Civil venue: Dallas County courts
Private institution status affects discovery and liability arguments
Often involves students from families with resources, changing dynamic

Baylor University (Waco)

Campus & Culture Snapshot:
Baylor’s Christian identity, combined with its history of scrutiny over football and Title IX issues, creates a complex environment for addressing hazing. Approximately 30% of undergraduates participate in Greek life, with additional risks in athletic programs and religious organizations.

Athletic Hazing Example:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020):

14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Suspensions staggered over early season
University stated matter handled internally under athletic policies

Baylor’s Unique Context:

Religious branding creates different community expectations
Prior sexual assault scandal informs institutional response patterns
“Zero tolerance” policies exist alongside recurring misconduct
Waco location creates smaller-community dynamics

How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed:

Criminal jurisdiction: McLennan County and Waco PD
Civil venue: McLennan County courts
Religious institution considerations may affect some arguments
History of institutional scandals may influence jury perceptions

Texas Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific Rosters + National Histories

Understanding National Organization Patterns

For Town of Alma families, understanding that local chapters at Texas universities are part of national organizations with extensive hazing histories is crucial. These national patterns create legal advantages when pursuing accountability.

Why National Histories Matter Legally:

Demonstrate foreseeability – nationals knew or should have known the risks
Show pattern evidence – same problems repeating across chapters
Establish negligent supervision claims – nationals failed to prevent known dangers
Support punitive damage arguments – reckless disregard for safety

Major National Organizations at Texas Universities

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike) – National Hazing Pattern:

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State (2021): died from forced alcohol consumption; $10M settlement
David Bogenberger – Northern Illinois (2012): died from alcohol poisoning; $14M settlement
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor
Legal Significance: National has been repeatedly warned about “Big/Little” alcohol hazing

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) – National Hazing Pattern:

Multiple hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide
2014 eliminated traditional pledge process nationally in response to deaths
Texas Incidents:
- Texas A&M chemical burns case (2021): $1M lawsuit
- UT Austin assault case (2024): $1M+ lawsuit
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU
Legal Significance: National’s elimination of pledge system acknowledges known risks

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ) – National Hazing Pattern:

Andrew Coffey – Florida State (2017): died from alcohol poisoning at “Big Brother Night”
Leonel Bermudez – University of Houston (2025): rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure (our active case)
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin
Legal Significance: Active litigation demonstrates ongoing pattern

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ) – National Hazing Pattern:

Max Gruver – LSU (2017): died from “Bible study” drinking game; $6.1M verdict
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
Legal Significance: Well-established alcohol hazing pattern

Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ) – National Hazing Pattern:

Chad Meredith – University of Miami (2001): drowned after alcohol hazing; $12.6M verdict
Texas A&M ongoing litigation re: rhabdomyolysis injuries
Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor
Legal Significance: Major verdict establishes substantial liability potential

Fraternity/Sorority Rosters at Texas Universities

University of Houston (UH) – Selected Chapters with National Histories:

Pi Kappa Phi (Beta Nu) – Active litigation, chapter closed
Sigma Alpha Epsilon – National hazing history, Texas incidents
Pi Kappa Alpha – National hazing deaths, Texas suspensions
Sigma Chi – National settlements including $10M+ verdicts
Kappa Alpha Psi – NPHC organization with national paddling concerns

Texas A&M University – Selected Chapters:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon – Chemical burns litigation
Pi Kappa Alpha – Active national litigation pattern
Corps of Cadets – Unique military-style hazing risks
Multiple NPHC organizations with national histories

University of Texas at Austin – Selected Chapters:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon – 2024 assault litigation
Pi Kappa Alpha – 2023 probation for hazing violations
Texas Cowboys & spirit groups – Regular hazing violations
Kappa Sigma – National verdict history

Southern Methodist University – Selected Chapters:

Kappa Alpha Order – 2017 suspension for paddling/alcohol hazing
Multiple IFC fraternities with national risk management histories
NPHC organizations with national paddling concerns

Baylor University – Selected Chapters:

Pi Kappa Alpha – National pattern of alcohol hazing deaths
Sigma Alpha Epsilon – National elimination of pledge system
Athletic programs – Baseball hazing suspensions

How National Patterns Strengthen Texas Cases

Discovery Advantages:

Subpoena national headquarters for prior incident reports
Obtain risk management files showing knowledge of dangers
Access training materials proving nationals knew proper procedures
Document communication between nationals and local chapters

Legal Arguments Supported:

Foreseeability: Nationals knew this exact conduct caused injuries/deaths elsewhere
Negligent Supervision: Failed to implement/enforce adequate safeguards
Punitive Damages: Reckless disregard for known dangers
Vicarious Liability: Nationals control chapters through manuals, training, oversight

Practical Litigation Impact:

Increases settlement leverage with deeper-pocket defendants
Expands insurance coverage possibilities
Allows joinder of additional parties with resources
Provides pattern evidence that resonates with juries

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages & Strategy for Town of Alma Families

Critical Evidence Categories

Digital Communications (Most Important Evidence):

Group messaging apps: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, fraternity-specific apps
Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments, Facebook Messenger
Recovered deleted messages: Digital forensics can often retrieve “disappearing” content
Metadata: Timestamps, participant lists, edit histories establishing timelines

Photos & Videos:

Content filmed by members during hazing events
Security camera or doorbell footage at houses and venues
Injury documentation with date stamps
Social media posts showing events or aftermath

Internal Organization Documents:

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
Emails/texts from officers planning events
National policies and training materials
Risk management files from headquarters

University Records:

Prior conduct files, probation/suspension letters
Incident reports to campus police or conduct offices
Clery Act reports and annual security disclosures
Internal emails among administrators about the organization

Medical & Psychological Records:

Emergency room and hospitalization records
Surgery reports, rehabilitation notes, specialist consultations
Toxicology reports showing alcohol/drug levels
Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses)

Witness Testimony:

Other pledges who experienced same conduct
Former members who quit or were expelled
Roommates, RAs, bystanders who observed events or aftermath
Medical personnel who treated injuries

Evidence Preservation: 48-Hour Checklist for Families

Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis):

Medical attention for any injuries or intoxication
Screenshot any messages shown to you immediately
Photograph visible injuries from multiple angles
Write down everything your child tells you (date, time, details)
Contact Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance

Hour 6-24 (Evidence Preservation):

Help your child preserve ALL digital communications (do NOT delete anything)
Secure physical evidence (clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing)
Request medical records from ER/hospital
Document names and contact information for witnesses
Note any university communications but do not respond yet

Hour 24-48 (Strategic Decisions):

Consult with experienced hazing attorney (Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911)
Decide on reporting to campus police, local police, Dean of Students
Refer any university contacts to your attorney
Do NOT speak with insurance adjusters without counsel
Backup all evidence to cloud storage or email to yourself

Damages Categories in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Financial Losses):

Medical Expenses:

Past medical bills: Emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, medications
Future medical needs: Ongoing therapy, future surgeries, long-term care
Life care plans: For catastrophic injuries requiring lifetime support

Lost Income & Earning Capacity:

Lost wages from time off work
Educational losses: Tuition for withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships
Diminished future earning capacity for permanent disabilities

Other Economic Losses:

Property damage (destroyed clothing, phones, personal items)
Relocation costs to transfer schools
Counseling and therapy expenses

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Compensable):

Physical Pain & Suffering:

Pain from injuries (broken bones, burns, internal damage)
Ongoing chronic pain from permanent injuries
Loss of physical abilities and mobility

Emotional Distress & Psychological Harm:

Diagnosed conditions: PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders
Humiliation, shame, loss of dignity from degrading acts
Fear, nightmares, flashbacks affecting daily life
Loss of trust in people and institutions

Loss of Enjoyment of Life:

Inability to participate in previously enjoyed activities
Withdrawal from college experience and social life
Relationship damage with friends and family

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families):

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of financial support and companionship
Grief and emotional suffering of family members
Loss of guidance for younger siblings

Punitive Damages (When Available):

Purpose: Punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
Available when defendants show callous indifference to known risks
Texas has statutory caps with exceptions for certain intentional conduct

Strategic Case Development

Defeating Common Defense Tactics:

Defense: “The Pledge Consented / It Was Voluntary”

Our Response: Texas law § 37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense
Evidence: Group messages showing coercion, testimony about power imbalance
Legal Argument: Consent under duress or peer pressure is not valid

Defense: “This Was a Rogue Chapter / National Didn’t Know”

Our Response: Subpoena national records showing prior incidents
Evidence: Pattern of same conduct across multiple chapters
Legal Argument: Nationals had constructive notice from industry knowledge

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

Our Response: Location doesn’t eliminate duty when organization sponsors activity
Evidence: Chapter organized event, members attended in official capacity
Legal Argument: Foreseeability of off-campus hazing is well-established

Defense: “We Have Strict Anti-Hazing Policies”

Our Response: Show policies were window-dressing, not enforced
Evidence: Prior violations with minimal consequences, inadequate training
Legal Argument: Having a policy isn’t enough – must meaningfully enforce

Insurance Coverage Strategies:

Identify all potential policies: national org, chapter, university, individual homeowners
Navigate “intentional act” exclusions by arguing negligent supervision
Pursue bad faith claims against insurers who wrongfully deny coverage
Maximize recovery across multiple coverage sources

Practical Guides & FAQs for Town of Alma Families

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
Extreme fatigue and exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight loss or gain from food/water restriction or stress
Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, calls at odd hours)
Injuries to hands, back, or legs from paddling or exercise
Chemical burns, rashes, or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning or drug use

Behavioral & Emotional Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities (“I can’t talk about it”)
Withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-member activities
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive when asked about the organization
Fear of “getting in trouble” or “letting the chapter down”
Obsession with pleasing older members

Academic & Financial Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or falling asleep during classes
Unexplained large expenses (forced purchases, “fines”)
Buying excessive alcohol or items for older members
Overdrafts or credit card maxing without clear explanation

Digital Behavior Indicators:

Constant phone use monitoring group chats
Anxiety when phone buzzes with organization messages
Deleting messages or clearing browser history obsessively
Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response
Social media posts showing concerning activities

How to Talk to Your Child (Non-Confrontational Questions):

“How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
“Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
“What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or that you wish you didn’t have to do?”
“Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
“Do you feel like you can leave if you want to, or would there be consequences?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”

For Students: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Decision Questions:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
Would I do this if I had a real choice (no social consequences)?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would the university or my parents approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Are older members making new members do things they don’t have to do themselves?
Is this “tradition” really about initiation, or just fun for older members?
Am I being told to keep secrets, lie, or hide this from outsiders?

If you answered YES to any, it’s likely hazing.

Three-Tier Hazing System:

Tier 1 (Subtle): Servitude, social control, deception, “optional” but mandatory → Still hazing
Tier 2 (Harassment): Yelling, sleep deprivation, humiliation, forced activities → Illegal hazing
Tier 3 (Violent): Forced drinking, beatings, sexual acts, dangerous tests → Serious crime; get help NOW

How to Exit Safely:

Immediate danger: Call 911 or campus police
Safe location: Go to dorm, friend’s place, or public area
Good-faith protections: Most schools protect those who call for help in emergencies
Formal resignation: Email/text chapter leadership: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
Avoid “one last meeting”: Where pressure or retaliation might occur
Document retaliation: Save threats or harassment; report to Dean of Students and police

Evidence Collection for Students:

Screenshots: Group chats with timestamps and participant names visible
Recordings: Texas is one-party consent state (legal to record conversations you’re part of)
Photos/Videos: Injuries, locations, objects used in hazing
Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed for proper records
Witness information: Names and contacts of others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Hazing Case

MISTAKE 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: Looks like cover-up, can be obstruction of justice, makes case nearly impossible
What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

MISTAKE 2: Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly

What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
What to do instead: Document everything, call a lawyer before any confrontation

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

What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or internal agreements
Why it’s wrong: May waive right to sue; settlements often below case value
What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review

MISTAKE 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: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

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

What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt the case
What to do instead: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer

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

**What universities