The Complete Guide to Hazing Litigation for Texas and Westbrook Families: Holding Universities & Fraternities Accountable

A Parent’s Worst Nightmare: When “Tradition” Turns to Tragedy

Here in Westbrook, Mitchell County, and across the heart of West Texas, we send our children to college with dreams of their future. We imagine them making friends, joining organizations, and building the foundation for their adult lives. The last thing any parent in our community expects is a panicked call in the middle of the night, a frantic trip to a distant hospital, or the devastating news that your child has been seriously injured—not in an accident, but at the hands of an organization they trusted.

Right now, in Harris County just a few hours east of us, our firm is fighting one of the most severe hazing cases in Texas history. We represent Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after enduring months of systematic hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. His urine turned brown. He was hospitalized for four days. And he faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage—all because he wanted to belong.

This isn’t just a Houston problem. The same national fraternities and sororities that operate at UH also have chapters at Texas A&M, UT Austin, Angelo State, Texas Tech, and campuses across our region. The same dangerous behaviors—forced drinking, extreme physical abuse, psychological torment—happen in College Station, Austin, San Marcos, Lubbock, and everywhere Texas students seek connection.

If you’re a parent in Westbrook, Mitchell County, or anywhere in West Texas, this guide is for you. We’ll explain what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects your child, what’s happening at universities where Westbrook families send their children, and what legal options exist when institutions fail to protect students.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

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

In the first 48 hours:

Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine”
Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
- Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
- Photograph injuries from multiple angles
- Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
Do NOT:
- Confront the fraternity/sorority
- Sign anything from the university or insurance company
- Post details on public social media
- Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses)
Universities move quickly to control the narrative
We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like in West Texas

For families in Westbrook and across rural Texas, hazing often seems like something that happens “elsewhere”—at big urban universities or prestigious private schools. The reality is that the same dangerous behaviors occur wherever students gather in groups with power imbalances, including at institutions throughout our region.

Modern Hazing: Beyond the Stereotypes

Hazing in 2025 isn’t just about “boys will be boys” pranks. It’s a systematic pattern of coercion, abuse, and control that manifests in several forms:

Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the most common and deadly form. It includes forced consumption during “lineups,” “family tree” drinking games, Big/Little nights where pledges are given handles of liquor, and trivia games where wrong answers mean drinking. The Leonel Bermudez case at UH included forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed immediately by sprints—a dangerous combination that contributed to his medical crisis.

Physical Hazing and “Conditioning”
Disguised as “workouts” or “team building,” this includes extreme calisthenics beyond safe limits. In the UH Pi Kappa Phi case, Bermudez was forced through 100+ push-ups and 500 squats in a single session. Other physical hazing includes paddling, beatings, exposure to extreme temperatures, sleep deprivation, and food/water restriction.

Psychological and Digital Hazing
Modern hazing lives on smartphones. Pledges are required to:

Respond instantly to group chats at all hours
Share live location via tracking apps
Post humiliating content on social media
Endure verbal abuse and isolation from non-members
Carry “pledge fanny packs” with degrading items (as in the UH case: condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices)

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
This includes forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, degrading costumes, and acts with racial or homophobic overtones. Even in groups not traditionally associated with such behavior, these practices occur behind closed doors.

Where Hazing Happens in Our Region

Westbrook families should understand that hazing extends beyond Greek life:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs with military-style traditions
Athletic Teams from football to cheerleading
Spirit Organizations and traditional campus groups
Marching Bands and performance ensembles
Academic and Service Organizations

The common thread isn’t the type of group, but the dynamic: older members controlling new members through rituals that endanger physical or mental health.

Texas Hazing Law: What Westbrook Families Need to Know

Texas has specific laws addressing hazing, and understanding them is crucial for families in Mitchell County and throughout West Texas.

Texas Education Code Chapter 37: The Hazing Statute

Under Texas law, which governs cases involving Westbrook students at Texas universities, hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in an organization. The act must either:

Endanger the physical health or safety of the student, OR
Cause mental harm that seriously affects the student’s psychological well-being

Key Provisions for West Texas Families:

§ 37.151 Definition
The law applies both on and off campus, covers both individuals and organizations, and includes mental as well as physical harm. “Reckless” conduct counts—they don’t need to have intended the specific harm.

§ 37.152 Criminal Penalties

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

§ 37.155 Consent is NOT a Defense
This is crucial for Westbrook parents to understand: even if your child “agreed” to participate, that doesn’t make it legal. Texas law recognizes that consent under peer pressure and power imbalance isn’t true voluntary consent.

§ 37.153 Organizational Liability
Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be criminally prosecuted and fined up to $10,000 per violation if they authorized or encouraged hazing, or if officers knew and failed to report it.

§ 37.154 Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting
Students who report hazing or call for medical help in good faith are protected from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result. This “medical amnesty” is designed to encourage getting help without fear of minor-in-possession or other charges.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

When hazing occurs involving a Westbrook student, two parallel legal tracks may proceed:

Criminal Cases

Brought by the state (county or district attorney)
Aim: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Typical charges: Hazing, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, manslaughter in fatal cases
Standard: “Beyond a reasonable doubt”

Civil Cases

Brought by victims or surviving families
Aim: Compensation and accountability
Typical claims: Negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent supervision, premises liability, emotional distress
Standard: “Preponderance of the evidence” (more likely than not)

These cases can run simultaneously. A criminal conviction isn’t required for a civil case, though it can strengthen it. Many families pursue civil actions even when criminal charges aren’t filed, as the burden of proof is lower and the focus is on recovery and accountability.

Federal Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024)
This federal law requires colleges receiving federal aid to:

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

Title IX and Clery Act
When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, Title IX obligations trigger. The Clery Act requires reporting certain crimes—hazing incidents often overlap with assault or alcohol crimes that must be disclosed.

National Hazing Case Patterns: Precedents That Protect Westbrook Students

The tragedies that have occurred at campuses nationwide have established legal precedents that protect Texas students and provide pathways for accountability. These cases show patterns that repeat across institutions—patterns we see right here in Texas.

Alcohol Poisoning Deaths: The Deadliest Pattern

Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017)
During a bid-acceptance night, Piazza consumed dangerous amounts of alcohol during a drinking game, fell multiple times suffering traumatic brain injuries, and fraternity brothers delayed calling for help for 12 hours. The security camera footage showed the horror in real time. This case resulted in:

18 fraternity members charged with over 1,000 criminal counts
Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law
Multiple civil settlements (confidential amounts)
Chapter permanently banned from Penn State

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
Gruver died from alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.495%) after a “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant drinking. The aftermath included:

Multiple criminal convictions including negligent homicide
Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
Chapter closure and national reforms
$6.1 million verdict against individual members (plus confidential settlements)

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
Foltz died after being forced to drink nearly a bottle of whiskey during a Big/Little event. The outcomes demonstrate what’s possible:

Multiple criminal convictions of fraternity members
$10 million total settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU)
Chapter president personally ordered to pay $6.5 million
Strengthened Ohio anti-hazing laws

Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a Big Brother night. This case shows how even “social” fraternity events turn deadly and how institutions respond:

Multiple criminal hazing convictions
FSU temporarily suspended ALL Greek life
Civil lawsuit filed (confidential settlement)
National scrutiny of Pi Kappa Phi’s practices

Physical and Ritualized Hazing Patterns

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
Deng died from traumatic brain injuries during a blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at a fraternity retreat. This case established critical precedents:

Multiple members convicted of assault and hazing
National fraternity criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter
Pi Delta Psi banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years
Over $110,000 in fines
Landmark case for organizational criminal liability

Danny Santulli – University of Missouri, Phi Gamma Delta (2021)
Santulli suffered severe, permanent brain damage during a “pledge dad reveal” night, leaving him unable to walk, talk, or see, requiring 24/7 care. The legal response shows how non-fatal injuries can still be catastrophic:

Multiple criminal hazing charges against members
Civil settlements with 22 defendants (reportedly multi-million dollar total)
Chapter closed permanently
National example of catastrophic non-fatal injury

Athletic and Program Hazing

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025)
Former players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the football program over years. This case demonstrates hazing beyond Greek life:

Multiple lawsuits against university and staff
Head coach Pat Fitzgerald fired, then settled wrongful-termination suit confidentially
University facing significant liability
Shows systemic abuse can exist in major athletic programs

What These Cases Mean for Westbrook Families

These national cases establish that:

Patterns repeat—the same dangerous behaviors recur across campuses
Institutions can be held accountable—universities and national organizations face real consequences
Substantial compensation is possible—verdicts and settlements reach millions
Legal reforms follow tragedy—many states strengthened laws after these cases
West Texas students deserve the same protections—what happens at Ohio State or LSU matters for Texas A&M or Angelo State cases

Texas Hazing Reality: Where Westbrook Families Send Their Students

Westbrook students attend universities across Texas, from nearby regional campuses to major state institutions. Understanding the hazing landscape at these schools is crucial for Mitchell County families.

The Westbrook Educational Pipeline

Families in our community typically send students to:

Regional and Nearby Universities:

Angelo State University (San Angelo)
West Texas A&M University (Canyon)
Texas Tech University (Lubbock)
Midwestern State University (Wichita Falls)
University of Texas Permian Basin (Odessa)

Major Texas Universities (Common Choices):

Texas A&M University (College Station)
University of Texas at Austin
University of Houston
Texas State University (San Marcos)
Baylor University (Waco)

Community Colleges and Technical Schools:

Howard College (Big Spring and San Angelo)
Western Texas College (Snyder)
South Plains College (Levelland)

Each of these institutions has Greek life, athletic programs, and student organizations where hazing can occur. The geographic distance from Westbrook doesn’t eliminate risk—it often complicates parents’ ability to monitor what’s happening.

Angelo State University: Our Closest Major Campus

Just 90 minutes from Westbrook, Angelo State serves many Mitchell County students and represents the type of regional university where Westbrook families might first encounter Greek life issues.

Campus Culture:
Angelo State has active Greek life with both national and local fraternities and sororities. As a regional university, it maintains traditions and close-knit organizations that can sometimes foster insular cultures where hazing goes unreported.

Documented Hazing History:
While less publicized than major universities, Angelo State has faced hazing allegations including:

Physical conditioning abuses in athletic teams
Alcohol-related hazing in fraternities
Psychological hazing in spirit organizations

University Response Protocol:
Angelo State’s Dean of Students office handles hazing complaints, with procedures that include:

Initial assessment within 48 hours of report
Investigation by Student Conduct office
Possible interim measures (no-contact orders, organizational suspension)
Potential outcomes: warning, probation, suspension, expulsion

For Westbrook Families:
If your child attends ASU and experiences hazing:

Contact the Dean of Students immediately: (325) 942-2191
Document all communications with the university
Understand that as a Texas public university, ASU has sovereign immunity considerations
Consider that evidence may need to be preserved quickly before witnesses graduate or leave campus

Texas A&M University: A Common Destination

Many Westbrook students pursue Aggie traditions, often joining the Corps of Cadets or Greek organizations.

Corps of Cadets Hazing Reality:
The Corps has faced multiple hazing allegations, including a 2023 lawsuit alleging cadets were:

Bound between beds in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
Subjected to simulated sexual acts
Physically abused under guise of “discipline”
The lawsuit sought over $1 million, with Texas A&M stating it handled the matter internally.

Fraternity Hazing at A&M:
Sigma Alpha Epsilon faced a 2021 lawsuit after pledges alleged:

Being covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit
Suffering severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts
The fraternity was suspended for two years
Pledges sued for $1 million (outcome confidential)

University Transparency:
Texas A&M publishes some hazing violations but maintains less public data than UT Austin. The university emphasizes internal resolution, which can leave families feeling shut out of the process.

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Tradition

UT maintains the most transparent hazing reporting system in Texas, providing valuable data for families.

Public Hazing Violations Log:
UT’s website lists organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions. Recent examples include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023):

New members directed to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics
Found to be hazing
Sanctions: Probation, required hazing-prevention education

Texas Wranglers (Multiple Years):

Forced workouts, alcohol-related hazing, punishment-based practices
Repeated violations despite sanctions
Demonstrates how even with transparency, problems persist

Investigation Process:
UT’s process typically involves:

Report to Office of the Dean of Students
Investigation by Student Conduct and Academic Integrity
Possible interim suspension of organization
Hearing before Student Conduct panel
Appeal process

For Westbrook Parents:
UT’s transparency is valuable for showing patterns, but the university still faces the same challenges as other institutions in changing organizational cultures.

University of Houston: Our Current Battleground

The Leonel Bermudez case represents exactly what Attorney911 fights against. As detailed in the Click2Houston report on UH Pi Kappa Phi hazing case and ABC13 coverage of Leonel Bermudez’s UH hazing lawsuit, the systematic abuse included:

The Hazing Timeline:

Sept 16, 2025: Bermudez accepts bid to Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu
Sept-Oct: Forced dress codes, hours-long “study/work” blocks, weekly interviews, overnight chauffeuring, mandatory “pledge fanny pack”
Oct 13: Another pledge hog-tied face-down on table with object in mouth for over an hour
Nov 3: Bermudez forced through 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion
Nov 6: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspends chapter after receiving hazing reports
Nov 6-9: Bermudez hospitalized with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure

Hazing Methods Documented:

“Pledge fanny pack” with condoms, sex toy, nicotine devices
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
Immediate sprints after vomiting
Yellowstone Boulevard Park workouts causing loss of consciousness

Medical Consequences:

Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown)
Acute kidney failure
Brown urine indicating kidney damage
Critically high creatine kinase levels
Four-day hospitalization
Ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage

Institutional Response:

UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”
Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspended then closed chapter
Chapter members voted to surrender charter Nov 14, 2025
UH promised disciplinary action up to expulsion
Criminal investigation referred to law enforcement

This case demonstrates what Westbrook families might face: systematic abuse, medical crisis, and institutions that knew or should have known.

Baylor University and Southern Methodist University

These private institutions have their own hazing landscapes:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020):

14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Suspensions staggered over early season
Private university means less public transparency
Religious identity creates unique cultural dynamics

SMU Kappa Alpha Order (2017):

New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, sleep-deprived
Chapter suspended, restrictions on recruiting until 2021
Private university status affects transparency
Affluent campus culture presents particular challenges

The Greek Landscape: Organizations Behind the Letters

For Westbrook families, understanding which national organizations operate at Texas campuses—and their histories—is crucial. The same fraternities and sororities that have caused deaths and injuries nationwide have chapters right here in Texas.

Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: Tracking Organizational Footprints

Through public records and investigative work, we maintain data on Greek organizations across Texas. Here’s what Westbrook families should know about the organizations operating at universities their children attend:

Public Records: Fraternities, Sororities & Greek Organizations Serving Westbrook Families

Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks 1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metros. For Westbrook and Mitchell County families, here are key organizations in our region and statewide:

West Texas Regional Organizations:

Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (EIN: 820644459) – Lubbock, TX 79430 – IRS B83 filing
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi – Texas A&M University (EIN: 900293166) – College Station, TX 77843 – IRS B83 filing
Delta Kappa Gamma Society – Zeta Phi Chapter (Cause IQ) – Clyde, TX – Educators’ society
Delta Kappa Gamma Society – Lambda Xi (Cause IQ) – Abilene, TX – Educators’ society
Psi Chi – McMurry University Chapter (Cause IQ) – Abilene, TX – Psychology honor society

Major National Fraternities with Texas Presence:

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ) – “Pike”

National hazing history: Stone Foltz (BGSU, 2021 – $10M settlement), David Bogenberger (NIU, 2012 – $14M settlement)
Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Texas State, Texas Tech
Texas entity: Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Epsilon Kappa Alumni (EIN: 746064445) – Nederland, TX 77627 – IRS B83 filing

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) – “SAE”

National hazing history: Multiple deaths, traumatic brain injury cases
Texas incidents: Chemical burns case at Texas A&M ($1M lawsuit), assault case at UT Austin
Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor
Metro presence: 188 Greek organizations in Houston metro alone per Cause IQ data

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

National hazing history: Max Gruver (LSU, 2017 – $6.1M verdict)
Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Texas State
Texas entity: Phi Delta Theta Fraternity – Texas Xi (EIN: 900927378) – San Antonio, TX 78249 – IRS B83 filing

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

National hazing history: Andrew Coffey (FSU, 2017 – confidential settlement)
Texas chapters: UH (Beta Nu – now closed), Texas A&M, UT Austin
Texas entity: Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation (EIN: 371768785) – Missouri City, TX 77459 – IRS B83 filing
Beta Nu Housing Corporation Inc. (EIN: 462267515) – Frisco, TX 75035 – IRS B83 filing

Sigma Chi (ΣΧ)

National hazing history: College of Charleston case ($10M+ settlement), UTA hospitalization
Texas chapters: UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, Baylor, Texas Tech
Texas entities: Multiple chapter housing corporations across Texas

Why National Histories Matter for Westbrook Cases

When a Texas chapter repeats behaviors that caused deaths or injuries elsewhere, that demonstrates:

Foreseeability:
National headquarters knew or should have known these practices were dangerous because they caused harm at other chapters.

Pattern Evidence:
Similar methods across multiple chapters show systematic problems, not “rogue individuals.”

Negligent Supervision:
If nationals didn’t adequately supervise or enforce policies despite knowing risks, they may be liable.

Punitive Damages Potential:
Reckless disregard for known dangers can support punitive damage claims.

For example: When Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter at UH engaged in forced drinking and extreme physical hazing, the national organization should have known these practices were dangerous because:

Their own FSU chapter caused Andrew Coffey’s death through similar practices
They have anti-hazing policies specifically addressing these risks
The entire Greek industry knows these practices cause harm

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Damages, and Strategy for Westbrook Families

When hazing affects a Westbrook student, building a strong case requires immediate action and strategic thinking. Here’s what families need to know about the legal process.

Critical Evidence Collection

Evidence in hazing cases disappears rapidly. Within 48 hours, group chats are deleted, witnesses are coached, and physical evidence is destroyed. Here’s what to preserve:

Digital Evidence (Most Critical):

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, fraternity apps
Social media: Instagram stories, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook posts
Texts and DMs: Save entire conversations with timestamps
Photos/videos: Content filmed during events, even if “just for fun”
Location data: GPS tags, Find My Friends sharing, venue check-ins

Physical Evidence:

Clothing worn during hazing (don’t wash it)
Objects used (paddles, bottles, props)
Receipts for forced purchases
Medical equipment (crutches, braces, etc.)

Medical Documentation:

ER records, ambulance reports
Lab results (blood alcohol, kidney function, toxicology)
Imaging (X-rays, CT scans)
Discharge instructions
Follow-up care records
Psychological evaluations

Institutional Records:

University conduct files (obtained via subpoena)
Campus police reports
National fraternity risk management files
Prior incident reports
Training materials and policy manuals

As we explain in our video on using your phone to document evidence, proper documentation in the first hours can make or break a case.

Damages: What Can Be Recovered

Hazing cases can involve substantial damages. Here are the categories Westbrook families should understand:

Economic Damages (Quantifiable):

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages (for student or parent providing care)
Educational costs (withdrawal, transfer, lost scholarships)
Future earning capacity reduction (for permanent injuries)
Life care plans (for catastrophic injuries)

Non-Economic Damages:

Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
Humiliation and loss of dignity
Loss of enjoyment of life
Damage to relationships

Wrongful Death Damages:

Funeral and burial costs
Loss of financial support
Loss of companionship and guidance
Emotional suffering of family
Parents’ and siblings’ therapy costs

Punitive Damages (When Available):

To punish especially reckless or malicious conduct
To deter future hazing
Available when defendants show “conscious indifference” to known risks

Defendants: Who Can Be Held Accountable

Hazing cases typically involve multiple defendants, each with different insurance coverage and defenses:

Individual Students:

Those who planned, participated in, or covered up hazing
Personal liability insurance (often through parents’ homeowners policies)
Defenses: “I was just following orders,” “Everyone did it”

Local Chapter:

The fraternity/sorority as an entity
Chapter insurance policies (if they exist)
Defenses: “Rogue members,” “Against our policies”

National Headquarters:

The parent organization
Larger insurance policies, deeper pockets
Defenses: “We didn’t know,” “We have anti-hazing policies”

University:

Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT): Sovereign immunity limitations but still liable in some circumstances
Private universities (SMU, Baylor): Fewer immunity protections
Defenses: “Off-campus activity,” “We investigated properly”

Third Parties:

Property owners (landlords of chapter houses)
Alcohol providers (bars, liquor stores under dram shop laws)
Security companies or event organizers

Insurance Coverage Battles

Insurance companies often resist paying hazing claims, arguing:

Hazing is “intentional conduct” excluded from coverage
The policy doesn’t cover certain defendants
Notice wasn’t timely

Our firm’s unique advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how insurers value claims, fight coverage, and use delay tactics. This insider knowledge is invaluable when negotiating with fraternity and university insurance companies.

Practical Guides for Westbrook Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Westbrook Student May Be Being Hazed:

Physical Signs:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
Extreme fatigue beyond normal college stress
Weight changes (from food restriction or stress)
Sleep deprivation (3 AM calls, constant exhaustion)
Injuries to hands, back, or legs
Chemical burns or skin damage
Signs of alcohol poisoning (even if they don’t normally drink)

Behavioral Changes:

New secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and old friends
Personality changes (anxiety, depression, irritability)
Defensive when asked about the group
Constant phone monitoring for group chats
Missing classes or falling grades
Financial strain (unexplained expenses)

Questions to Ask (Non-Confrontationally):

“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 new members to do?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
“Do you feel like you could leave if you wanted to?”
“Are they asking you to keep secrets?”

Immediate Response Checklist:
✅ Medical First: Get to ER if injured or intoxicated
✅ Evidence Preservation: Screenshot everything, photograph injuries
✅ Documentation: Write down what happened while fresh
✅ Legal Consultation: Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911
✅ University Reporting: Contact Dean of Students (with lawyer’s guidance)
✅ Do NOT: Confront the organization, sign university forms, post on social media

For Students: Safety and Rights

Is This Hazing? Quick Self-Check:

Am I being forced or pressured?
Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
Is this dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew?
Am I being told to keep secrets?

If You Need to Exit Safely:

Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend)
Send written resignation: “I am resigning effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure might occur
If fearing retaliation, report to Dean of Students and campus police
Document any threats or harassment

Your Legal Rights in Texas:

You cannot be punished for calling 911 in an emergency (good-faith reporter immunity)
Hazing is a crime—you are the victim, not perpetrator
You can file civil lawsuit even without criminal charges
You can request no-contact orders through university

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

Based on our experience handling hazing cases across Texas, here are the most common—and costly—errors families make:

1. Letting Your Child Delete Evidence
What happens: Messages disappear, looks like cover-up, case weakens
Better approach: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

2. Confronting the Organization Directly
What happens: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Better approach: Document quietly, consult attorney first

3. Signing University “Resolution” Forms
What happens: You may waive right to sue, accept low settlement
Better approach: Have attorney review ALL documents before signing

4. Posting on Social Media
What happens: Defense attorneys screenshot everything, inconsistencies hurt credibility
Better approach: Keep details private, let attorney control messaging

5. Waiting for University to “Handle It”
What happens: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Better approach: Preserve evidence NOW, consult attorney immediately

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters
What happens: Recorded statements used against you, lowball settlements
Better approach: “My attorney will contact you”

As we detail in our video on client mistakes that can ruin your case, avoiding these errors is crucial for protecting your rights.

FAQ: Answers for Westbrook Families

“Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities have sovereign immunity limitations, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals. Private universities have fewer protections. Every case is fact-specific—contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case analysis.

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

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to it?”
Texas Education Code §37.155 explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” under peer pressure isn’t voluntary.

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

“What if it happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Many major cases (Pi Delta Psi retreat, Sigma Pi house) occurred off-campus.

“Will this be confidential?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. We can request sealed court records and confidential settlements. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

“How much will this cost?”
We work on contingency fee—you pay nothing unless we win. Watch our video explaining how contingency fees work for details.

Why Attorney911 for Westbrook Hazing Cases

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Westbrook, Mitchell County, and all of West Texas.

Our Unique Qualifications for Hazing Cases

Insurance Insider Advantage (Mr. Lupe Peña)
Mr. Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

Value (and undervalue) hazing claims
Use delay tactics to pressure families
Fight coverage under “intentional act” exclusions
Set reserves and negotiate settlements
“We know their playbook because we used to run it.”

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience (Ralph Manginello)
Ralph’s background includes:

BP Texas City explosion litigation—one of few Texas firms involved
Federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
HCCLA membership (elite criminal defense credential)
25+ years handling high-stakes cases
“We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations. We’re not intimidated by national fraternities or universities.”

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience
We have recovered millions in complex wrongful death cases, working with economists to value:

Lifetime earning capacity loss
Future medical and care needs
Non-economic damages (pain, suffering, loss)
“We don’t settle cheap. We build cases that force accountability.”

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability
Ralph’s HCCLA membership means we understand:

How criminal hazing charges interact with civil cases
How to advise witnesses with potential criminal exposure
Constitutional challenges to unlawful searches
“We navigate both legal tracks effectively.”

Investigative Depth and Expert Network
We maintain:

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

Spanish Language Services
Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish—critical for serving Hispanic families throughout Texas.
“Hablamos Español. Contacte a Lupe Peña a lupe@atty911.com.”

Our Approach: Empathy Meets Aggressive Advocacy

We understand this is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our approach balances:

Compassionate Support:

We listen without judgment
We explain options clearly
We respect your family’s privacy
We move at your pace

Aggressive Investigation:

We pursue every lead
We subpoena hidden records
We work with top experts
We prepare for trial from day one

Strategic Negotiation:

We know insurance company tactics
We value cases accurately
We negotiate from strength
We’re ready to try cases when needed

Accountability Focus:

We seek compensation for your family
We pursue institutional changes
We help prevent future harm
We honor victims through advocacy

Call to Action: We’re Here for Westbrook Families

If hazing has impacted your family—whether your child attends Angelo State, Texas A&M, UT, UH, or any Texas campus—you don’t have to face this alone.

What to Expect When You Contact Us

Free, Confidential Consultation:

We listen to your story without judgment
Review any evidence you have (photos, texts, medical records)
Explain your legal options clearly
Discuss realistic timelines and expectations
Answer questions about costs (contingency fee—no fee unless we win)
No pressure to hire us—take time to decide
Everything you tell us is confidential

Immediate Action We Can Take:

Evidence preservation demands
University record requests
Witness interviews
Medical expert consultation
Insurance coverage analysis
Strategic planning

Contact Attorney911 Today

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

For Spanish Services:
Hablamos Español
Contact Mr. Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com

Serving All of Texas from Multiple Offices

Houston (Primary): Harris County complex litigation
Austin: Travis County and Central Texas
Beaumont: Jefferson County and East Texas
West Texas Reach: Serving Westbrook, Mitchell County, and throughout the region

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

News Coverage of Leonel Bermudez / UH Pi Kappa Phi Case:

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Evidence preservation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Statute of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes to avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
Contingency fees explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Main Website:

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