Hazing in Texas: A Comprehensive Legal Guide for Wharton Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at a Texas University, You’re Not Alone

For parents in Wharton, El Campo, Louise, and across Wharton County, sending your child to college represents hope, opportunity, and tradition. Many Wharton County students head to Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Houston, or other Texas campuses, carrying with them the values of our tight-knit community. What you never anticipate is receiving that phone call—the one where your child whispers through tears about what’s really happening behind the closed doors of a fraternity, sorority, Corps program, or athletic team.

Right now, just a few hours north in Houston, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student, nearly lost his life after allegedly enduring brutal hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. According to a $10 million lawsuit filed in late 2025, Bermudez was forced through extreme physical abuse including hundreds of push-ups and squats, sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding,” made to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, and subjected to humiliating “pledge fanny pack” requirements. The result? Rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure—his urine turned brown, he was hospitalized for four days, and he faces ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.

This isn’t a story from some distant campus. This is happening right now in Texas, to Texas families like yours. The Pi Kappa Phi chapter has been shut down, but the institutional failures that allowed this to happen—at UH and within the national fraternity system—are exactly what we fight to expose every day.

If you’re a Wharton parent discovering that your child has been hazed, injured, or abused in connection with campus organizations, this guide is for you. We’ll explain what modern hazing really looks like, how Texas law protects your child, what’s happening at major Texas universities, and what legal options your family may have. We’re The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC (Attorney911), and we serve hazing victims and their families throughout Texas, including right here in Wharton County.

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

For generations of Wharton families, “hazing” might have conjured images of harmless pranks or tough initiation rituals. Today’s reality is tragically different. Modern hazing is systematic, often hidden behind digital walls and off-campus locations, and carries life-altering—sometimes fatal—consequences.

The Modern Definition: More Than Just “Tradition”

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, in Texas, “I agreed to it” is not a defense. The law recognizes that true consent cannot exist when there’s a power imbalance, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion.

Five Categories of Modern Hazing Affecting Texas Students

1. Alcohol and Substance Hazing
This remains the leading cause of hazing deaths nationwide. It’s not just “drinking at a party”—it’s systematic coercion:

Forced consumption of excessive alcohol during “Big/Little” nights, bid acceptance events, or “family tree” drinking games
Chugging challenges, “lineups,” or games requiring rapid consumption
Being pressured to consume unknown mixtures or drugs
The Leonel Bermudez case at UH involved forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting

2. Physical Hazing
From the Texas A&M Corps to fraternity “workouts,” physical abuse takes many forms:

Paddling and beatings (still occurring despite national prohibitions)
Extreme calisthenics or “smokings”—like the 100+ push-ups and 500 squats forced upon Bermudez
Sleep deprivation through all-night “study sessions” or mandatory late-night activities
Food/water restriction or forced consumption of unpalatable substances
Exposure to extreme cold/heat or dangerous environments

3. Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing
Some of the most psychologically damaging behaviors:

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions, or degrading costumes
Acts with racial, sexist, or homophobic overtones
Public shaming rituals

4. Psychological Hazing
The invisible wounds that last for years:

Verbal abuse, threats, and intimidation
Social isolation from non-members
Manipulation through fear and guilt
“Roasts” or interrogation sessions designed to break down self-esteem

5. Digital/Online Hazing
The newest frontier, especially challenging for Wharton parents to detect:

Group chat dares and “challenges” on GroupMe, WhatsApp, Discord
Pressure to create or share compromising images/videos on Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram
24/7 availability demands—responding instantly to messages at all hours
Social media humiliation through coordinated posting
Geo-tracking demands via Find My Friends or similar apps

Where Hazing Happens: Beyond the Fraternity House

Wharton families should understand that hazing extends far beyond stereotypical fraternity parties:

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

The common thread? Social status, tradition, and secrecy keep these practices alive even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal.

Texas Hazing Law: What Wharton Families Need to Know

Texas has some of the nation’s most comprehensive anti-hazing statutes, but understanding how they work in practice is crucial for Wharton families seeking justice.

Texas Education Code – Chapter 37: The Foundation

Texas law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student for the purpose of:

Pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students
That endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student

Key implications for Wharton families:

Location doesn’t matter: Hazing at an off-campus Airbnb, retreat, or private house is still hazing
“Reckless” is enough: Defendants don’t need malicious intent—just disregard for known risks
Consent is irrelevant: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that victim consent is not a defense

Criminal Penalties: Real Consequences

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
Additional charges: Individuals can also face assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, or even manslaughter charges

Organizational Liability: Holding Groups Accountable

Texas law allows prosecution of organizations themselves (fraternities, sororities, clubs) if:

The organization 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:

Fines up to $10,000 per violation
University revocation of recognition
Permanent ban from campus

Protections for Reporting: Encouraging Help-Seeking

Texas provides immunity for good-faith reporting—someone who reports hazing to university or law enforcement is protected from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result. Many Texas universities also offer medical amnesty policies to encourage calling 911 in alcohol emergencies, even if underage drinking was involved.

Federal Overlay: Additional Protections

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): Requires colleges receiving federal aid to report hazing incidents more transparently and strengthen prevention programs (phased in by 2026).

Title IX: When hazing involves sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based hostility, additional federal protections and reporting requirements apply.

Clery Act: Requires reporting of certain campus crimes, including some hazing-related offenses.

National Hazing Cases: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

The tragic cases that make national headlines aren’t isolated incidents—they’re patterns that repeat across campuses, including here in Texas. Understanding these patterns helps Wharton families recognize warning signs and appreciate the legal precedents that support hazing claims.

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: Deadly “Traditions”

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)
The 20-year-old pledge was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” night. He died from alcohol poisoning. The result? $10 million in settlements ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, ~$3M from BGSU) and multiple criminal convictions. For Wharton families, this case demonstrates how national fraternities face massive liability when their chapters repeat dangerous drinking rituals.

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017)
Gruver died during a “Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers meant forced drinking. His blood alcohol concentration reached 0.495%. The outcome? Louisiana enacted the Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony, and the case resulted in a $6.1 million verdict against individual defendants. This shows how state legislatures respond to tragedies with stronger laws—a pattern Texas could follow after cases like Bermudez’s.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017)
Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” where pledges were given handles of hard liquor. The chapter was closed, FSU suspended all Greek life, and the family filed a wrongful death suit. This same national fraternity—Pi Kappa Phi—is now involved in the University of Houston case, showing how dangerous patterns persist within organizations.

Physical and Ritualized Hazing: Brutal Traditions

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013)
Deng died during a blindfolded, weighted “glass ceiling” ritual at a fraternity retreat. Members delayed calling 911. The national fraternity was convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter and banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years. This proves that off-campus locations don’t eliminate liability and that national organizations can face criminal consequences.

Northwestern University Football Program (2023-2025)
Former players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the football program. Multiple lawsuits led to the head coach’s firing and confidential settlements. This demonstrates that hazing extends far beyond Greek life into major athletic programs with significant institutional resources.

What These Cases Mean for Wharton Families

These national precedents matter because:

They establish legal principles that Texas courts follow
They show patterns that repeat across campuses
They demonstrate substantial recoveries for families ($1M-$14M in death cases)
They prove institutional accountability is possible against universities and national organizations

When your child is hazed at a Texas university, you’re not navigating uncharted legal territory. You’re following a path that other families have paved through immense courage and determination.

Texas Universities: Where Wharton Students Face Hazing Risks

Many Wharton County students attend Texas’s flagship universities. Understanding the specific hazing landscapes at these schools helps families recognize risks and know where to turn for help.

University of Houston: The Current Frontline

For Wharton Families: UH is just over an hour from Wharton, making it a common choice for local students. The recent Pi Kappa Phi case demonstrates the serious risks present on this campus.

The Leonel Bermudez Case – What Happened:

September 2025: Bermudez accepts a bid to Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter
September-October: Subjected to “pledge fanny pack” humiliation (forced to carry condoms, sex toys, nicotine devices), enforced dress codes, mandatory interviews, overnight driving duties
October 13: Another pledge allegedly hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour
November 3: Forced through 100+ push-ups, 500 squats under threat of expulsion
Multiple locations: Pi Kappa Phi house, Culmore Drive residence, Yellowstone Boulevard Park
Additional abuse: Cold-weather exposure in underwear, lying in vomit-soaked grass, being sprayed with hose “similar to waterboarding,” forced consumption of milk/hot dogs/peppercorns until vomiting followed by sprints
Medical outcome: Developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, passed brown urine, hospitalized four days, faces permanent kidney damage risk

University Response:

November 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters suspends Beta Nu chapter
November 14, 2025: Chapter members vote to surrender charter; chapter closed
UH statement: Called conduct “deeply disturbing,” promised disciplinary measures up to expulsion, cooperation with law enforcement

Legal Action:

$10 million lawsuit filed in Harris County
Defendants include: University of Houston, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual fraternity leaders/members
Attorney911 represents Bermudez: We’re actively litigating this case right now

UH’s Greek Ecosystem (Based on Official Rosters):

21+ fraternities including Alpha Epsilon Pi, Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Pi Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi
6 Panhellenic sororities including Alpha Chi Omega, Chi Omega, Delta Gamma
Multiple NPHC (Divine Nine) and multicultural organizations

What UH Parents Should Know:

UHPD and Houston Police Department share jurisdiction depending on location
Prior hazing incidents include 2016 Pi Kappa Alpha case involving a lacerated spleen
The university maintains conduct records that can be crucial evidence
Immediate reporting to Dean of Students Office is critical

Texas A&M University: Tradition and Risk

For Wharton Families: Many Wharton County students choose Texas A&M, drawn by its reputation and traditions. The Corps of Cadets and vigorous Greek life require particular vigilance.

Recent Hazing Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon Chemical Burns Case (2021):

Two pledges alleged forced strenuous activity with substances including industrial-strength cleaner poured on them
Resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin graft surgeries
Pledges sued for $1 million; fraternity suspended 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

Texas A&M’s Greek & Corps Landscape:

19+ IFC fraternities including Alpha Gamma Rho, Alpha Sigma Phi, Alpha Tau Omega, Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha
14 Panhellenic sororities including Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Chi Omega, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma
Corps of Cadets with approximately 2,300 members
Full NPHC and multicultural council presence

Unique A&M Considerations:

Corps hazing falls under both university conduct rules and military-style discipline
Off-campus locations in Bryan/College Station area are common hazing sites
The university’s “traditions” can sometimes blur lines with hazing
Immediate reporting to Student Conduct Office and/or Corps leadership

University of Texas at Austin: Transparency and Pattern

For Wharton Families: UT Austin attracts top students from across Texas, including Wharton County. The university’s relative transparency about hazing violations provides both warning and evidence.

UT’s Public Hazing Violations Page:
UT maintains one of Texas’s most transparent hazing disclosure systems at hazing.utexas.edu. Recent entries include:

Pi Kappa Alpha (2023):

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

Texas Wranglers (Spirit Organization):

Sanctioned for forced workouts and alcohol-related hazing
Multiple-year pattern of violations

UT’s Greek Ecosystem:

60+ fraternity/sorority chapters including major national organizations with hazing histories
14 Panhellenic sororities including Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Chi Omega, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma
16+ IFC fraternities including Alpha Sigma Phi, Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi
Active NPHC and multicultural councils

Legal Advantages at UT:

Public violation records establish pattern evidence for lawsuits
Prior incidents show foreseeability—university knew or should have known risks
UTPD and Austin Police Department jurisdiction options
Strong Title IX office for gender-based hazing cases

Southern Methodist University: Private Campus Challenges

For Wharton Families: SMU’s private university status affects transparency, but doesn’t eliminate liability when hazing occurs.

Recent History:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink alcohol, deprived of sleep; chapter suspended until approximately 2021
Ongoing anonymous reporting through systems like Real Response

SMU’s Greek Landscape:

6 IFC fraternities including Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Alpha Order, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Chi
8 Panhellenic sororities including Alpha Chi Omega, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma
NPHC organizations present but not all consistently active

Private University Considerations:

Less public transparency than state schools
Internal disciplinary processes can be opaque
Still subject to Texas hazing laws and federal regulations
Discovery in lawsuits can compel release of internal records

Baylor University: Religious Identity and Accountability

For Wharton Families: Baylor’s religious identity and recent history with institutional accountability issues create a complex environment for hazing response.

Recent Incidents:

Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation; staggered suspensions during season
Ongoing scrutiny following broader athletic department controversies

Baylor’s Greek Landscape:

5 IFC fraternities including Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Chi
9 Panhellenic sororities including Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Delta Pi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Pi Beta Phi
NPHC and multicultural organizations

Baylor-Specific Considerations:

Religious mission can complicate reporting and institutional response
Prior institutional failures in other areas may affect hazing response credibility
Waco police jurisdiction for off-campus incidents
Internal conduct processes influenced by religious values

The Texas Greek Ecosystem: What Wharton Families Are Really Dealing With

Behind the letters and logos of campus organizations lies a complex network of legal entities, insurance policies, and national organizations. Understanding this ecosystem is crucial for holding the right parties accountable.

Public Records: The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine

At Attorney911, we maintain what we call our “Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine”—a comprehensive database of Greek organizations across the state. This isn’t theoretical; it’s built from public records that show the true scope of what Wharton families are dealing with.

IRS B83 Backbone: 125+ Texas-Registered Greek Organizations
The IRS maintains records of tax-exempt Greek organizations across Texas. These aren’t just social clubs—they’re legal entities with Employer Identification Numbers (EINs), mailing addresses, and organizational structures. Examples from the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro area that serve students at nearby universities include:

Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc (EIN 475370943) – 5019 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77204 – IRS B83 filing
Sigma Chi Fraternity Epsilon Xi Chapter (EIN 746084905) – 4300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204 – IRS B83 filing
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated – Sigma Gamma Chapter (EIN 392352450) – PO Box 540026, Houston, TX 77254 – IRS B83 filing
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity (EIN 746064445) – 1855 Highway 69 N, Nederland, TX 77627 – IRS B83 filing, Epsilon Kappa Chapter
Sigma Phi Epsilon New York Chi Alumni Association Inc (EIN 262710856) – 618 Rutland St, Houston, TX 77007 – IRS B83 filing

Cause IQ Metro Data: The Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro
Our analysis of the Houston metro area (which serves UH, Rice, Texas Southern, and other campuses) shows:

188 Greek-related organizations in the Houston metro according to Cause IQ data
Examples include:
- Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity – Houston, TX (alumni/house corporation)
- Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae – Houston, TX
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Alpha Kappa Omega – Houston, TX (graduate chapter)
- Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity – Eta Rho Sigma – Houston, TX (graduate chapter)
- Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Beta Sigma Chapter – Houston, TX (undergraduate chapter)

Cross-Validated Brands: Tracking National Organizations
When organizations appear in both IRS and Cause IQ data, we have high confidence in their operational presence. Examples relevant to Wharton families include:

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority appears in IRS records (EIN 364091267 – Waco, TX 76710) and Cause IQ data (Beta Sigma Chapter – Houston, TX)
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity appears in IRS records (EIN 746064445 – Nederland, TX 77627) and Cause IQ data (Texas District – Houston, TX)
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity appears in multiple IRS filings and Cause IQ metro listings

Why This Data Matters for Your Case

When your child is hazed, this data helps us:

Identify all potentially liable entities beyond the undergraduate chapter
Track insurance coverage through house corporations and alumni associations
Establish pattern evidence showing national organizations knew or should have known about risks
Navigate complex organizational structures that defendants use to avoid liability

National Organizations with Documented Hazing Histories

Many fraternities and sororities at Texas universities have national histories of hazing incidents. This isn’t speculation—it’s documented in court records nationwide:

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ): Stone Foltz death ($10M settlement), David Bogenberger death ($14M settlement), multiple chapter closures

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ): Multiple hazing-related deaths nationwide, traumatic brain injury lawsuit at University of Alabama (2023), chemical burns case at Texas A&M ($1M lawsuit)

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ): Max Gruver death (Louisiana felony hazing law enacted), multiple chapter suspensions

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ): Andrew Coffey death (Florida State), chapter closures, now the UH Bermudez case

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ): Multiple hazing suspensions including at SMU, documented physical abuse cases

When these national organizations have chapters at Texas universities, they bring with them known risks and patterns. Their prior incidents elsewhere establish foreseeability—they knew or should have known what could happen at their Texas chapters.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Realistic Expectations

For Wharton families considering legal action, understanding how a hazing case is built and what to expect is crucial. This isn’t like a car accident claim—it’s complex institutional litigation against powerful defendants with deep pockets and experienced defense teams.

Critical Evidence: What Wins Hazing Cases

Digital Communications (The Most Important Evidence)

Group chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, fraternity-specific apps
Social media: Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, TikTok comments (even disappearing content)
Recovery of deleted messages: Digital forensics can often recover “deleted” communications
In the Bermudez case: Group chats likely revealed planning, coordination, and aftermath discussions

Photos & Videos

Content filmed by members during events (often shared in group chats)
Social media posts showing events or aftermath
Security camera footage from houses, venues, or neighboring properties
Preservation is critical: Screenshot immediately before content disappears

Internal Organization Documents

Pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” documents
Emails/texts between officers about activities
National fraternity policies, training materials, risk management guidelines
Meeting minutes or notes referencing activities

University Records

Prior conduct files on the same organization
Incident reports to campus police or conduct offices
Clery Act reports and annual security disclosures
Internal emails among administrators about the organization
Public records requests can obtain much of this information

Medical & Psychological Documentation

Emergency room and hospitalization records
Toxicology reports (blood alcohol, drug screens)
Psychological evaluations (PTSD, depression, anxiety diagnoses)
Ongoing treatment records showing long-term impact
In Bermudez’s case: Medical records showing critically high creatine kinase levels confirming rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure

Witness Testimony

Other pledges who experienced similar treatment
Former members who quit or were expelled
Roommates, friends, or significant others who observed changes
Emergency responders, hospital staff
Early interviews are critical before witnesses are coached or intimidated

Potential Damages: What Families Can Recover

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses)

Medical expenses: Past and future care, including hospitalization, surgery, therapy, medications
Lost educational opportunities: Tuition for missed semesters, lost scholarships, delayed graduation
Diminished earning capacity: If injuries create permanent disability affecting future earnings
Example: For a student who develops PTSD and cannot complete their engineering degree, damages could include lifetime earnings differential

Non-Economic Damages (Compensatory)

Physical pain and suffering from injuries
Emotional distress, trauma, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life (can no longer participate in activities they loved)
PTSD, depression, anxiety requiring ongoing treatment
In severe cases: Lifelong psychological impact requiring decades of therapy

Wrongful Death Damages (When Tragedy Strikes)

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided family
Loss of love, companionship, guidance
Emotional suffering of family members
Parental grief and mental health treatment

Punitive Damages (When Defendants’ Conduct is Egregious)

Designed to punish particularly reckless or malicious conduct
Available when defendants showed conscious disregard for safety
In hazing cases: Often justified when organizations ignored prior warnings or actively covered up misconduct

The Defense Playbook: How Institutions Fight Back

Wharton families should understand what they’re up against:

Common Defense Strategies We Regularly Defeat:

“The Victim Consented”: Texas law explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing
“This Was Rogue Individuals”: We show national organizations had prior knowledge and failed to supervise
“It Happened Off-Campus”: Location doesn’t eliminate liability when organizations sponsor or know about activities
“We Have Anti-Hazing Policies”: We prove policies were window-dressing, not meaningfully enforced
Insurance Coverage Disputes: Fraternities and universities often have complex insurance policies with exclusions—we navigate these battles regularly

Why Attorney911’s Experience Matters

Insurance Insider Advantage: Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies value claims, use Independent Medical Exams to reduce settlements, and deploy delay tactics. We know their playbook because we used to run it.

Complex Institutional Litigation: Our involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation proved our capability against billion-dollar defendants with unlimited legal budgets. Universities and national fraternities use the same tactics—we’re not intimidated.

Multi-Million Dollar Results: We have recovered millions for clients in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We work with economists, life care planners, and medical experts to build cases that force serious settlements.

Digital Evidence Expertise: We work with digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages, analyze metadata, and reconstruct events from digital footprints.

Texas-Specific Knowledge: We understand Texas sovereign immunity issues for public universities, local court procedures in Harris, Travis, Brazos, Dallas, and McLennan counties, and how Texas juries view hazing cases.

Practical Guides for Wharton Families: What to Do Right Now

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries with inconsistent explanations
Extreme fatigue or exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight loss/gain from food restriction or stress eating
Sleep deprivation (constant late nights, early wake-up calls)
Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family, old friends, or non-member activities
Personality changes: anxiety, depression, irritability
Defensive when asked about the organization
Constant phone use monitoring group chats
Social media posts showing concerning or humiliating activities

How to Talk to Your Child:

Choose the right time: Private, calm, no distractions
Use open questions: “How are things really going with [organization]?” not “Are they hazing you?”
Listen without judgment: They may be ashamed or afraid
Emphasize safety: “Your safety matters more than any organization”
Offer unconditional support: “We’ll figure this out together”

If You Confirm Hazing:

Prioritize medical care: Even if injuries seem minor
Document everything: Write down what they tell you with dates/times
Preserve evidence: Help them screenshot messages, photograph injuries
Contact an attorney: Before reporting to university or confronting organization
Develop a safety plan: If they fear retaliation for leaving/quitting

For Students: Protecting Yourself

Is This Hazing? Ask Yourself:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do?
Would I do this if there were no social consequences?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew exactly what was happening?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about activities?

How to Exit Safely:

Tell someone you trust first (parent, RA, friend outside organization)
Send written resignation to chapter president/new member educator
Do NOT attend “one last meeting” where you might be pressured
Document any retaliation (threats, harassment, property damage)
Report retaliation immediately to campus police and Dean of Students

Preserving Evidence:

Screenshot everything: Group chats, DMs, emails before they disappear
Photograph injuries: Multiple angles, include ruler for scale, track progression
Save physical items: Clothing with stains/damage, objects used in hazing
Medical documentation: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s in records
Witness information: Names/contacts of others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

Deleting Messages or “Cleaning Up” Evidence
- What seems embarrassing now is crucial evidence later
- Digital forensics can often recover deleted content, but original is best
- Deletion can look like attempted cover-up
Confronting the Organization Directly
- Immediately triggers their defense preparation
- Evidence disappears, witnesses are coached
- Let your attorney handle all communication
Signing University “Resolution” Agreements
- Universities often push quick settlements that waive legal rights
- Amounts are typically far below case value
- Never sign anything without attorney review
Posting on Social Media
- Defense attorneys monitor everything
- Inconsistencies hurt credibility
- Can waive privacy protections
- Let your attorney control public messaging
Waiting “To See How the University Handles It”
- Evidence disappears in weeks
- Witnesses graduate or become uncooperative
- Statute of limitations continues running
- University process rarely brings real accountability
Talking to Insurance Adjusters
- Recorded statements are used against you
- Early settlement offers are lowball tactics
- Politely decline: “My attorney will contact you”
Letting Your Child Return for “One Last Meeting”
- Pressure, intimidation, or extraction of damaging statements
- Physical safety risk if emotions are high
- All communication should go through attorneys once legal action is considered

Frequently Asked Questions from Wharton Families

Can we sue a Texas university for hazing?
Yes, under specific circumstances. Public universities (UH, Texas A&M, UT) have sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing employees in personal capacity. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity barriers. Every case requires specific analysis—call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss your situation.

Is hazing a felony in Texas?
It can be. Texas 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 misdemeanor charges for failing to report hazing.

What if my child “agreed” to the activities?
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. This was a key factor in the Bermudez case at UH.

How long do we have to file a 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, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears quickly.

What if the hazing happened off-campus?
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 my child’s name be public?
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We can request sealed court records and confidential settlement terms. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability. The Bermudez case at UH is public because media outlets investigated and reported before the lawsuit was filed.

How much does it cost to hire Attorney911?
We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay no upfront costs, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. We cover all case expenses initially and are reimbursed from the recovery. This makes justice accessible to families who couldn’t otherwise afford to take on wealthy universities and national fraternities.

Can you help if the hazing happened at an out-of-state school?
Yes. While we’re Texas-based and focus on Texas cases, we can serve as co-counsel with local attorneys in other states or provide consultation on strategy. Many national fraternities have the same insurance carriers and defense tactics regardless of location.

What if criminal charges are also involved?
Attorney Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand both criminal and civil aspects of hazing cases. We can advise on interaction between the two tracks and represent clients in either arena.

How long will a hazing case take?
Most cases resolve within 1-3 years, though complex cases against multiple institutional defendants can take longer. The Bermudez case against UH and Pi Kappa Phi is ongoing as of late 2025. We work efficiently while ensuring thorough investigation and preparation.

Why Wharton Families Choose Attorney911 for Hazing Cases

When your family faces the trauma of hazing, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. Here’s why Wharton families trust us with their most serious cases:

Our Texas Hazing Litigation Credentials

Active Leadership in Major Texas Cases
Right now, we’re leading the Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston & Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit—one of the most serious hazing cases in recent Texas history. We’re not theorizing about hazing litigation; we’re actively fighting it in Texas courts. When we discuss institutional cover-ups, insurance battles, and multi-defendant strategies, we’re speaking from current experience.

Insurance Insider Advantage
Mr. Lupe 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
Deploy Independent Medical Exams to reduce settlements
Fight coverage under “intentional act” exclusions
We know their playbook because we used to run it. Now we use that knowledge to hold them accountable.

Proven Against Billion-Dollar Defendants
Our involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation proved we can take on institutional defendants with unlimited legal budgets. Universities and national fraternities use the same tactics—deep pockets, delay strategies, expert teams. We’re not intimidated because we’ve faced this before and won.

Data-Driven Investigation
Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—built from IRS records, university data, and organizational research—means we don’t start from scratch. We already know the organizational structures, insurance carriers, and prior incidents that form the backbone of institutional liability cases. For Wharton families, this means we can move quickly while defendants are still coordinating their defense.

Full-Service Capability
Hazing cases often involve:

Personal injury/wrongful death claims (our core expertise)
Criminal defense aspects (Ralph’s HCCLA membership)
Title IX issues (when hazing involves gender-based harassment)
Insurance coverage battles (Lupe’s defense background)
Digital evidence recovery (expert collaboration)
We handle all aspects under one roof, so families don’t get passed between specialists.

What to Expect When You Contact Us

Your Free, Confidential Consultation:

We listen without judgment: You tell us what happened in complete confidence
Evidence review: We examine any documentation you have (photos, messages, medical records)
Legal options explained: We outline potential paths—criminal reporting, civil lawsuit, both, or neither
Realistic expectations: We discuss possible outcomes, timelines, and challenges
No pressure decision: You take time to decide what’s right for your family
Spanish services available: Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish (Se habla Español)

If You Hire Us:

Immediate evidence preservation: We secure digital evidence before it disappears
Comprehensive investigation: We identify all potentially liable parties
Expert collaboration: We engage medical, psychological, economic, and digital experts as needed
Strategic planning: We develop a case strategy tailored to your goals
Regular communication: We update you at least every 2-3 weeks
Trial readiness: We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, because that’s what forces fair settlements

Our Commitment to Wharton Families

We understand that hazing cases are about more than money. They’re about:

Accountability: Ensuring those responsible are held answerable
Safety: Preventing what happened to your child from happening to others
Healing: Providing resources for physical and emotional recovery
Justice: Restoring some measure of balance after profound betrayal

We’ve seen how hazing devastates families—not just the victim, but parents, siblings, and entire communities. We approach every case with the compassion that trauma demands and the toughness that institutional defendants require.

Call to Action: Wharton Families Deserve Answers and Accountability

If you’re reading this because your child has been hazed, injured, or abused in connection with a campus organization, we want to hear from you. Whether your child attends a university near Wharton or anywhere in Texas, you have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation:

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
Spanish Services: Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com (Se habla Español)

Your consultation includes:

Complete confidentiality—we protect your family’s privacy
Honest assessment of your legal options
Explanation of potential challenges and strategies
Discussion of realistic timelines and expectations
No pressure to hire us—take time to decide what’s right for your family
No upfront costs—we work on contingency fee basis

Wharton families don’t have to face hazing alone. We serve clients throughout Texas from our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices. Whether your child was hazed at Texas A&M, UT Austin, University of Houston, or any Texas campus, we have the experience, resources, and determination to pursue accountability.

The university may tell you “this is being handled internally.” The fraternity may say “this was just a few bad apples.” The insurance company may offer a quick settlement. But Wharton families deserve more than institutional damage control. They deserve thorough investigation, experienced advocacy, and real accountability.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let us help you get answers, hold the right people accountable, and prevent what happened to your child from happening to another family.

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