The Complete Texas Hazing Legal Guide for Families in Town of New Deal, Lubbock County, and Across the State

If Your Child Was Hzed at a Texas University, You’re Not Alone. Here’s What Every Town of New Deal Family Needs to Know.

Picture this: A student from Town of New Deal, excited to start their college journey, joins what they believe is a prestigious organization at Texas Tech University in nearby Lubbock or another major Texas campus. What begins as camaraderie quickly turns dark. They’re handed a “pledge fanny pack” they must carry 24/7 containing humiliating items. They’re woken at 3 AM for “workouts” at a local park. They’re forced to consume dangerous amounts of food and liquids until they vomit, then made to sprint immediately after. Their phone buzzes constantly with group chat demands—respond instantly or face punishment. When they collapse from exhaustion and pass brown urine, older members hesitate to call 911 because “we don’t want to get the chapter in trouble.”

This isn’t a hypothetical scenario. Right now, just a few hours from Town of New Deal in Harris County, we’re fighting exactly this kind of case. In November 2025, we filed a $10 million hazing and abuse lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who nearly died from fraternity hazing. His story—involving the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, forced extreme workouts, simulated waterboarding, and life-threatening rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure—proves that catastrophic hazing isn’t just happening “somewhere else.” It’s happening at Texas universities where Town of New Deal families send their children.

If you’re a parent in Town of New Deal, Lubbock County, or anywhere in Texas, this comprehensive guide explains what hazing really looks like in 2025, Texas hazing laws, what’s happening at major universities like Texas Tech, Texas A&M, UT Austin, and others, and your family’s legal rights. We’ll walk you through national patterns, Texas-specific incidents, and practical steps to protect your child.

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 (Beyond the Stereotypes)

For families in Town of New Deal who may be unfamiliar with modern Greek life or campus organizations, hazing has evolved far beyond “harmless pranks” or “team bonding.” Today’s hazing is sophisticated, often digitally coordinated, and deliberately hidden from university officials and parents.

A 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. Crucially, “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.

Main Categories of Hazing in 2025

Alcohol and Substance Hazing

• Forced or coerced drinking games (“lineups,” “century club,” “Big/Little nights”)
• Chugging challenges with hard liquor
• Being pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances
• “Bible study” or trivia games where wrong answers mean forced drinks

Physical Hazing

• Paddling, beatings, or “smokings” (extreme calisthenics)
• Sleep deprivation via late-night “meetings” or 3 AM wake-up calls
• Food/water deprivation or forced consumption of disgusting substances
• Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments
• The specific pattern we see in the University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi case: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats, forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, then immediate sprints

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing

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

Psychological Hazing

• Verbal abuse, threats, isolation from non-members
• Manipulation or forced “confessions”
• Constant criticism and belittling

Digital/Online Hazing (The New Frontier)

• Group chat dares and “challenges” on GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord
• Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos on Snapchat, TikTok
• 24/7 availability demands with immediate response requirements
• Location tracking via Find My Friends or Snapchat Maps
• Social media policing and controlled posting

Where Hazing Actually Happens in Texas

While fraternities receive most media attention, hazing occurs across 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)
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups

1. Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations

This widespread occurrence stems from social status, tradition, and secrecy that keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law & Liability Framework: What Town of New Deal Families Must Understand

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws that govern cases involving students at our state universities. Understanding this framework is crucial for Town of New Deal families navigating a hazing crisis.

Texas Education Code – Chapter 37, Subchapter F (Hazing)

§ 37.151 Definition: What Constitutes Hazing in Texas
Texas law defines hazing as 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 for Town of New Deal Families:
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. Location doesn’t matter—it can happen on or off campus. The harm can be mental or physical. And crucially, “reckless” is enough—they don’t need to have malicious intent.

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties

• 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

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability
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 include fines up to $10,000 per violation and potential university revocation of recognition.

§ 37.154 Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting
A person who in good faith reports a hazing incident to university or law enforcement is immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result from the report. This includes amnesty provisions in medical emergencies—students who call 911 for help typically won’t face university discipline for underage drinking if they’re seeking aid.

§ 37.155 Consent Not a Defense
Texas law explicitly states: It is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the hazing activity. This directly rebuts the common defense of “they agreed to it.”

§ 37.156 Reporting by Educational Institutions
Texas colleges and universities must provide hazing prevention education, publish hazing policies, and maintain and publish annual reports of hazing violations and disciplinary actions. Some Texas schools (like UT Austin at hazing.utexas.edu) already do this publicly.

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

Civil Cases:

• Brought by victims or surviving families
• Aim: monetary compensation and accountability
• Focus on: negligence and gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring/supervision, premises liability, emotional distress

Both types can run side-by-side, and a criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil case. In fact, many hazing cases proceed civilly even when criminal charges aren’t filed.

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

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
This federal law requires colleges that receive federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently, strengthen hazing education and prevention, and maintain public hazing data (phased in by around 2026). This will create more accountability and data for families.

Title IX / Clery Act
When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations can be triggered. The Clery Act requires reporting certain crimes and maintaining safety statistics; hazing incidents often overlap with those categories when there are assaults or alcohol/drug crimes.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Individual Students:
The ones who planned, supplied the alcohol, carried out the acts, or helped cover them up

Local Chapter / Organization:
The fraternity/sorority or club itself (if it’s a legal entity), including officers or “pledge educators”

National Fraternity/Sorority:
Headquarters that set policies, receive dues, and supervise chapters—liability often hinges on what they knew or should have known from prior incidents

University or Governing Board:
The school or regents may be sued under certain negligence or civil-rights theories, particularly if there were prior warnings, poor policy enforcement, or deliberate indifference

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, but experienced hazing attorneys know how to identify all potentially liable parties.

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Can Learn from Tragedy

Major national hazing cases have shaped laws, university policies, and legal strategies nationwide. These cases show patterns that repeat at Texas schools and provide crucial precedents for Town of New Deal families.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
During a bid-acceptance event with heavy drinking, Piazza suffered severe falls captured on chapter security cameras. Fraternity members delayed calling for medical help for hours. The case resulted in dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, significant civil litigation, and Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law.

Takeaway for Texas Families: Extreme intoxication combined with delayed medical care and a culture of silence creates perfect conditions for tragedy and massive legal liability.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
At a “Big/Little” event, Coffey was given a handle of liquor, drank to dangerous levels, and died from alcohol poisoning. Criminal hazing charges followed, and FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life while overhauling policies.

Takeaway: Formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are repeating scripts for disaster—the same pattern we see in the current University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi case.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
During a “Bible study” drinking game, Gruver was forced to drink when answering questions incorrectly, leading to fatal alcohol toxicity (BAC 0.495%). His death led to Louisiana’s felony hazing statute, the Max Gruver Act.

Takeaway: Legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of hazing patterns.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
During a pledge night, Foltz was forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey and died from alcohol poisoning. The case resulted in multiple criminal convictions, a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU), and strengthened Ohio anti-hazing laws.

Takeaway: Universities face significant financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
At a fraternity retreat, Deng was subjected to a violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual, suffered fatal head injuries, and help was deliberately delayed. Multiple members were convicted, and the fraternity was banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years.

Takeaway: Off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous as parties, and national organizations face serious sanctions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
Former players alleged widespread sexualized, racist hazing within the football program over multiple years. Multiple lawsuits were filed against the university and staff, head coach Pat Fitzgerald was fired (and later settled a wrongful-termination suit), and the case demonstrated that hazing extends far beyond Greek life.

Takeaway: Big-money athletic programs can harbor systemic abuse with institutional complicity.

What These National Cases Mean for Texas Families

Common threads in these tragedies: forced drinking, humiliation, violence, delayed medical care, and cover-ups. Reforms and multi-million-dollar settlements typically follow only after tragedy and litigation. Texas families facing hazing at our universities are not alone and operate in a legal landscape shaped by these national lessons.

Texas University Focus: Where Town of New Deal Families Send Their Children

Town of New Deal families typically have children attending universities throughout Texas. Understanding what’s happening at these specific campuses—especially nearby Texas Tech University in Lubbock—is crucial for prevention and response.

Texas Tech University: The Closest Major Campus to Town of New Deal

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Texas Tech University in Lubbock, just minutes from Town of New Deal, hosts active Greek life with multiple fraternities and sororities. As a major research university with strong traditions, it attracts students from across West Texas, including many from Lubbock County.

Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels
Texas Tech prohibits hazing through its Student Code of Conduct and provides reporting channels through the Office of Student Conduct, the Dean of Students, and campus police. The university requires hazing prevention education for Greek organizations.

Local Greek Ecosystem Serving Texas Tech & Town of New Deal Families
Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks Greek organizations across Texas. For Lubbock County families, here are examples of registered organizations in the area:

• Epsilon Nu Housing Corporation (EIN: 237359384) – 1812 Broadway, Lubbock, TX 79401 (IRS B83 public filing)
• Alpha Omega Epsilon-Beta Alpha Chapter (EIN: 473967233) – 4640 Erskine St Apt B, Lubbock, TX 79416 (IRS B83 public filing)
• TKE OP Housing (EIN: 475033161) – 3522 158th St, Lubbock, TX 79423 (IRS B83 public filing)
• Gamma Phi House Corporation of Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity (EIN: 751283953) – 3803 137th, Lubbock, TX 79423 (IRS B83 public filing)
• Farm House Fraternity Inc (EIN: 751565336) – 3 Greek Cir, Lubbock, TX 79416 (Texas Tech University chapter)
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (EIN: 820644459) – 3601 4th Street, Lubbock, TX 79430 (Texas Tech Univ Health Sciences)

The Lubbock metro area contains 59 Greek-related organizations according to Cause IQ data, including Texas Tech chapters of Phi Delta Theta Housing, Kappa Alpha Order, and Alpha Phi Omega.

How a Texas Tech Hazing Case Might Proceed for Town of New Deal Families
A hazing incident at Texas Tech would likely involve:

• Jurisdiction: Lubbock County courts for civil cases, Lubbock Police Department or Texas Tech Police for criminal matters
• Potential Defendants: Individual students, the local chapter, national fraternity/sorority headquarters, Texas Tech University, property owners
• Logistics: Town of New Deal families would work with attorneys familiar with Lubbock County courts and Texas Tech administrative processes

What Texas Tech Students & Town of New Deal Parents Should Do

• Report hazing to Texas Tech’s Office of Student Conduct immediately
• Document everything with photos, screenshots, and written notes
• Seek medical attention at University Medical Center or Covenant Health in Lubbock
• Contact experienced hazing attorneys who understand Texas Tech’s specific Greek life landscape

Texas A&M University

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets and strong Greek life create unique hazing risks. The university’s tradition-heavy environment sometimes enables abusive practices disguised as “character building.”

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, causing severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries. The pledges sued for $1 million, and the fraternity was suspended for two years.

Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth. The lawsuit sought over $1 million, with Texas A&M stating it handled the matter under its rules.

Greek Organizations Serving Texas A&M (Examples from Public Records):

• Kappa Sigma – Mu Camma Chapter Inc (EIN: 133048786) – 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 public filing)
• Eta Alpha House Corporation of Kappa Delta Sorority (EIN: 742930349) – 404 University Dr E Ste D, College Station, TX 77840 (IRS B83 public filing)
• Gentlemen of Aggie Tradition (EIN: 880537463) – 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S Ste 100, College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 public filing)
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (EIN: 900293166) – 114 Henderson Hall 4233 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843 (Texas A&M University)

The College Station-Bryan metro contains 42 Greek-related organizations according to Cause IQ data.

University of Texas at Austin

Campus & Culture Snapshot
UT Austin’s large Greek system and numerous spirit organizations create multiple avenues for potential hazing. The university maintains relatively high transparency through its public hazing violations page.

Documented Incidents & Responses
UT’s public Hazing Violations page lists organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions. Examples include:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; found to be hazing; chapter placed on probation and required to implement new hazing-prevention education
• Texas Wranglers and other spirit organizations sanctioned for forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, or punishment-based practices

Greek Organizations Serving UT Austin (Examples from Public Records):

• Chi Omega Fraternity (EIN: 740555581) – 2711 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705 (Chi Omega House Corporation)
• Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity Inc (EIN: 741130606) – 1908 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705 (Alpha Mu chapter)
• Building Corporation of Delta Chapter of Alpha Delta Pi (EIN: 746047117) – 2620 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705
• Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (EIN: 463831593) – 2307 Vanderbilt Cir, Austin, TX 78723 (Texas State University)

The Austin-Round Rock metro contains 154 Greek-related organizations according to Cause IQ data.

Southern Methodist University

Campus & Culture Snapshot
SMU’s affluent campus and strong Greek presence create particular dynamics. As a private university, SMU has different transparency requirements than public institutions.

Documented Incidents & Responses
Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, and deprived of sleep. The chapter was suspended with recruiting restrictions until around 2021.

Greek Organizations Serving SMU (Examples from Public Records):
While many SMU-related organizations are registered in Dallas, the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro contains 510 Greek-related organizations—the highest concentration in Texas according to Cause IQ data.

Baylor University

Campus & Culture Snapshot
Baylor’s religious identity intersects with its Greek life and athletic programs. The university’s history of scrutiny over football and Title IX issues informs its current approach to misconduct.

Documented Incidents & Responses
Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following a hazing investigation, with staggered suspensions over the early season. This occurred within Baylor’s broader cultural and oversight challenges following prior scandals.

Greek Organizations Serving Baylor (Examples from Public Records):

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority (EIN: 364091267) – 1101 Melrose Dr, Waco, TX 76710 (Xi Chi chapter)
• Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Nu Iota Chapter Baylor University (EIN: 521346485) – PO Box 2033, Waco, TX 76703
• Texas Rho Chapter of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity (EIN: 741942292) – 3217 S 3rd St, Waco, TX 76706

The Waco metro contains 27 Greek-related organizations according to Cause IQ data.

University of Houston: Our Current Flagship Case

Campus & Culture Snapshot
As Texas’s third-largest university with growing Greek life, UH faces complex hazing challenges in an urban environment with both commuter and residential students.

The Leonel Bermudez / Pi Kappa Phi Case – What Actually Happened
Right now, we’re actively litigating one of Texas’s most serious hazing cases. Our client Leonel Bermudez, a UH transfer student, suffered life-threatening injuries during fall 2025 pledging at the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. The specific hazing included:

• “Pledge fanny pack” rule requiring 24/7 carrying of degrading items (condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices)
• Enforced dress codes, hours-long “study/work” blocks, weekly interviews, overnight driving duties
• Extreme physical hazing: sprints, bear crawls, wheelbarrow races, “save-your-brother” drills in cold weather
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting, then repeated sprints
• The Nov 3 workout: 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion
• Simulated waterboarding: sprayed in face with hose, threatened with actual waterboarding
• Another pledge hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour

Medical Catastrophe:
Bermudez developed rhabdomyolysis (severe skeletal muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure. He passed brown urine, couldn’t stand without help, and was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels confirming the life-threatening condition. He faces 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 their charter; chapter shut down
• UH statement: Conduct called “deeply disturbing,” promises disciplinary measures up to expulsion and cooperation with law enforcement

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

Why This Case Matters for All Texas Families:
This isn’t ancient history or something happening in another state. This is happening right now in Texas, at a major public university, with the same national fraternities present at campuses across our state. If it can happen at UH, it can happen at Texas Tech, Texas A&M, UT Austin, or any Texas campus where Town of New Deal students enroll.

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific and National Histories

Understanding the connection between local chapters at Texas universities and their national organizations’ hazing histories is crucial for legal strategy and prevention.

Why National Histories Matter in Texas Cases

Many fraternities/sororities on Texas campuses (Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Phi, Kappa Alpha Order, etc.) are part of national organizations with documented hazing patterns. National headquarters have thick anti-hazing manuals and risk policies precisely because they’ve seen deaths and catastrophic injuries in the past.

When a Texas chapter repeats the same script that got another chapter shut down or sued in another state, that shows foreseeability—the national organization should have known this could happen based on prior incidents. This supports negligence arguments and can increase liability.

Organization Mapping: National Patterns with Texas Presence

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike)

• National History: Stone Foltz death (BGSU, $10M settlement), David Bogenberger death (NIU, $14M settlement)
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Texas Tech, multiple sanctions including UT probation (2023)
• Pattern: “Big/Little” alcohol hazing nights

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE)

• National History: Multiple hazing deaths nationwide, traumatic brain injury lawsuit (University of Alabama), chemical burns case (Texas A&M, $1M lawsuit)
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin (lawsuit filed 2024), SMU
• Pattern: Physical abuse combined with substances

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

• National History: Andrew Coffey death (FSU), current UH case we’re litigating
• Texas Presence: UH (chapter closed 2025), Texas A&M, UT Austin
• Pattern: Extreme physical hazing leading to medical emergencies

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

• National History: Max Gruver death (LSU, led to Louisiana felony hazing law)
• Texas Presence: Chapters at UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Texas Tech
• Pattern: Drinking games disguised as “education”

How National Patterns Affect Texas Legal Strategy

Patterns across states and campuses show that certain organizations had repeated warnings. Courts consider whether national orgs:

• Meaningfully enforced anti-hazing policies
• Responded to prior incidents aggressively enough
• Implemented real reforms versus window-dressing

This affects settlement leverage, insurance coverage disputes, and potential for punitive damages. Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine helps track these patterns across the 1,423 Greek organizations we’ve identified across 25 Texas metros.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy for Town of New Deal Families

When hazing causes injury or death, building a strong case requires systematic evidence collection, understanding damages categories, and strategic navigation of complex liability issues.

Evidence: The Foundation of Every Strong Case

Digital Communications

1. Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, fraternity apps
2. Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments, Facebook Messenger
3. Recovered messages: Digital forensics can often retrieve deleted communications
4. Location data: GPS information from photos, Find My Friends, Snapchat Maps

Photos & Videos

1. Event footage: Content filmed by members during hazing
2. Injury documentation: Photos of bruises, burns, swelling over time
3. Location evidence: House/venue photos, security camera footage
4. Social media posts: Public or private posts about events

Internal Organization Documents

1. Pledge manuals: Initiation scripts, “tradition” lists, rules
2. Officer communications: Emails/texts about “what we’ll do to pledges”
3. National policies: Risk management manuals, training materials
4. Financial records: Dues payments to nationals showing ongoing relationship

University Records

1. Prior conduct files: Previous probation/suspensions, warning letters
2. Incident reports: Campus police or student conduct office reports
3. Clery reports: Annual safety disclosures
4. Internal emails: Administration communications about the organization

Medical and Psychological Records

1. Emergency care: ER records, hospitalization notes, surgical reports
2. Toxicology reports: Blood alcohol content, drug screening
3. Specialist evaluations: Neurologists, nephrologists, psychiatrists
4. Psychological impact: PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses
5. Ongoing treatment: Physical therapy, counseling, medication records

Witness Testimony

1. Other pledges: Those who experienced same hazing
2. Former members: Those who quit or were expelled
3. Roommates/RA’s: Those who observed changes or injuries
4. Bystanders: Non-members who witnessed events

Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

1. Medical expenses: Past and future care, including lifelong treatment for permanent injuries
2. Lost income: Wages during recovery, diminished future earning capacity
3. Educational costs: Tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships
4. Property damage: Destroyed clothing, phones, other items

Non-Economic Damages (Subjective but Real Harm)

1. Physical pain and suffering: From injuries and treatment
2. Emotional distress: PTSD, depression, anxiety, humiliation
3. Loss of enjoyment: Can’t participate in activities they loved
4. Reputational harm: Social stigma and privacy invasion

Wrongful Death Damages (For Families)

1. Funeral and burial costs
2. Loss of financial support: Deceased’s potential lifetime earnings
3. Loss of companionship: Love, guidance, society
4. Family’s emotional suffering: Parents’ and siblings’ grief

Punitive Damages (When Available)
To punish especially reckless or malicious conduct and deter future hazing. Available under certain conditions in Texas.

The Role of Insurance Coverage in Hazing Cases

National fraternities and universities typically have insurance policies that may cover hazing claims. However, insurers often argue:

1. Intentional acts exclusion: Claiming hazing is deliberate and therefore excluded
2. Criminal acts exclusion: Arguing hazing violations void coverage
3. Policy interpretation disputes: Claiming certain defendants aren’t covered

Experienced hazing attorneys:

1. Identify all potential coverage sources (chapter policies, national policies, university policies, individual homeowners policies)
2. Navigate coverage disputes with insurance defense strategies
3. Pursue bad faith claims when insurers wrongfully deny coverage
4. Use insurance insider knowledge (like Mr. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney) to anticipate and counter tactics

Practical Guides & FAQs for Town of New Deal Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
• Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
• Weight loss or gain from food/water restriction or stress
• Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, 3 AM calls)
• Injuries to hands, back, 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
• Withdrawal from family, old friends, 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
• Talking about “just having to get through this”

Academic Red Flags:

• Grades dropping suddenly
• Missing classes or falling asleep in class
• Skipping exams/assignments for “mandatory” events
• Losing scholarships or academic standing

Digital/Social Behavior:

• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
• Anxiety when phone buzzes
• Deleting messages or clearing browser history obsessively
• Receiving calls/texts at all hours demanding immediate response
• Social media posts showing concerning activities
• Geo-location tracking apps newly installed

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing

1. Ask open questions: “How are things going with [organization]? Are you enjoying it?”
2. Inquire about time respect: “Have they been respectful of your time for classes and sleep?”
3. Ask about activities: “What do they ask you to do as a new member?”
4. Probe discomfort: “Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable or you wish you didn’t have to do?”
5. Direct safety questions: “Have you seen anyone get hurt, or have you been hurt?”
6. Assess freedom: “Do you feel like you can leave if you want to, or would there be consequences?”
7. Question secrecy: “Are they asking you to keep secrets from me or the university?”

What to Do If You Suspect Hazing

Immediate Safety:

• If your child is in physical danger, call 911 or campus police immediately
• Get medical attention; prioritize health over “getting in trouble”

Document Everything:

• Write down dates, times, and what your child tells you
• Screenshot texts, group chats, or photos immediately
• Photograph visible injuries
• Save physical items (damaged clothing, receipts, props)

Reporting:

• Campus authorities: Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, campus police
• Local police: If crimes occurred (assault, sexual assault, furnishing alcohol to minor)
• University hotlines: Anonymous reporting options
• National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (anonymous, 24/7)

Legal Consultation:

• Contact experienced hazing attorneys early
• We can help preserve evidence before it’s destroyed
• Navigate university processes (which can be adversarial)
• Advise on criminal vs civil options
• Protect your child from pressure or retaliation

What NOT to Do:

• Don’t confront the fraternity/sorority directly (they may destroy evidence)
• Don’t sign anything from university or insurance without legal advice
• Don’t post details on public social media before consulting a lawyer
• Don’t let university convince you “this is being handled internally” if you want real accountability

For Students: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

Is This Hazing? Decision Guide
Ask yourself:

• 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, no fear of being “cut”)?
• 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/earning membership, 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.

How to Exit Safely
If you’re in immediate danger:
Milan1. Call 911 or campus police
2. Get to a safe location (dorm, friend’s place, public area)
3. You won’t get in trouble for calling for help in a medical emergency (good-faith reporter protections)

If you want to quit/de-pledge:

1. You have the legal right to leave at any time
2. Tell someone outside the org first (parent, RA, friend) for record
3. Send email/text to chapter president: “I am resigning my pledge/membership effective immediately”
4. Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where they might pressure or retaliate
5. Report retaliation fears to Dean of Students and campus police

Evidence Collection for Students

1. Screenshots of group chats: Capture full conversations with timestamps
2. Voice memos/recordings: Texas is one-party consent state (you can record conversations you’re part of)
3. Photos/videos: Injuries (multiple angles over days), locations, objects used
4. Save everything digital: Don’t delete anything even if embarrassed
5. Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
6. Witness information: Names/contacts of others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy 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: Looks like cover-up; can be obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
• What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

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, prepare defenses
• What to do instead: Document everything, then call a lawyer before any confrontation

3. Signing University “Release” or “Resolution” Forms

• What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements
• Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue; settlements often far below case value
• What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without attorney review first

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; can waive privilege
• What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging

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

6. Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”

• What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
• Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs, university controls narrative
• What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately; university process ≠ real 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: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
• What to do instead: Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”

Frequently Asked Questions for Town of New Deal Families

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT, Texas Tech) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

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

“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. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, organizations destroy records. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi unofficial house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in multi-million-dollar judgments.

“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

Why Attorney911 for Texas Hazing Cases: Our Unique Qualifications

When your family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. From our Texas offices, we serve families throughout the state, including Town of New Deal, Lubbock County, and all communities affected by campus hazing.

Our Competitive Advantages for Hazing Cases

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña)

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

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello)

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

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience

• Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases with economist collaboration
• Experience valuing lifetime care needs (brain injury, permanent disability cases)
• “We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise

• Ralph’s membership in Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA)
• Understands how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation
• Can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure

Investigative Depth

• Network of experts: medical, digital forensics, economists, psychologists
• Experience obtaining hidden evidence (group chats, chapter records, university files)
• Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: We track 1,423 Greek organizations across 25 Texas metros
• “We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.”

Spanish-Language Services

• Mr. Lupe Peña (he/him) speaks fluent Spanish
• Servicios legales en español disponibles para familias hispanas
• Cultural understanding of Texas Hispanic communities

How We Approach Hazing Cases Differently

We Understand the Institutions

• How fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments actually work behind closed doors
• The hidden hierarchies, traditional practices, and cover-up mechanisms
• University liability frameworks and administrative processes

We Master Modern Evidence Collection

• Obtaining deleted group chats and social media via digital forensics
• Subpoenaing national fraternity records showing prior incidents
• Uncovering university files through discovery and public records requests
• Working with medical experts to document rhabdomyolysis, PTSD, and other injuries

We Navigate Complex Liability

• Identifying all potentially liable parties: individuals, chapters, nationals, universities, third parties
• Anticipating and countering insurance coverage disputes
• Balancing victim privacy with public accountability needs
• Understanding how to prove coercion and overcome “consent” defenses

We Prioritize Your Family’s Well-Being

• “We know this is one of the hardest things a family can face.”
• “Our job is to get you answers, hold the right people accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family.”
• Not about bravado or quick settlements—about thorough investigation and real accountability

Call to Action: Your Next Steps as a Town of New Deal Family

If you or your child experienced hazing at Texas Tech University, Texas A&M, UT Austin, or any Texas campus, we want to hear from you. Families in Town of New Deal, Lubbock County, and throughout Texas have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a Confidential, No-Obligation Consultation

We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward. Here’s what to expect:

In Your Free Consultation, We Will:

1. Listen to your story without judgment
2. Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
3. Explain your legal options: criminal report, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
4. Discuss realistic timelines and what to expect
5. Answer your questions about costs (contingency fee – we don’t get paid unless we win)
6. No pressure to hire us on the spot – take time to decide
7. Everything you tell us is confidential

Contact Information:

• 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 (Ralph Manginello), lupe@atty911.com (Lupe Peña)

Spanish-Language Services:

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

Clarifying Expectations (Ethical Compliance):

• Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship.
• Every case is unique, and we cannot guarantee specific outcomes.
• An experienced attorney can review your specific facts, explain your rights under Texas law, and help you understand your options.

Whether you’re in Town of New Deal or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The same fraternities that harmed students at University of Houston operate at campuses statewide. The same insurance companies that fight those claims will fight yours. The same institutional cover-ups that happen in Houston happen everywhere.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let us put our experience, our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine, and our commitment to accountability to work for your family.

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of the Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Lawsuit:

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

   • Published: November 21, 2025 | Authors: Bryce Newberry & Holly Galvan Posey
   • URL: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/

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

   • Published: November 22, 2025 | Author: Nick Natario
   • URL: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/

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

   • Published: November 22, 2025 | Author: Alyssa Ford
   • URL: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational YouTube Videos:

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

   • Content: How to properly use your smartphone to document evidence after an injury or hazing incident
   • URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs

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

   • Content: Explains Texas statutes of limitations for personal injury cases
   • URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c

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

   • Content: Identifies common mistakes that can damage personal injury claims
   • URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

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

   • Content: Explains the contingency fee model for personal injury cases
   • URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

1. Attorney911 — Main Website & Contact
   • Full-service Texas personal injury and criminal defense law firm
   • 24/7 free consultations. Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont
   • URL: https://attorney911.com

Legal Disclaimer

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

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

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

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