Hazing in Texas: A Comprehensive Legal Guide for Wilbarger County Families

For Wilbarger County Parents: When Campus “Traditions” Turn Dangerous

The phone rings late at night. Your child, a student at Texas A&M, the University of Houston, or another Texas campus, sounds different—exhausted, evasive, anxious. They mention “mandatory” events that keep them out until dawn, unexplained bruises, or a sudden obsession with pleasing older fraternity members. A gut feeling tells you something is wrong. You’re not imagining it. What you’re seeing may be the warning signs of hazing, a dangerous practice that has hospitalized and killed students across Texas and the nation.

Right now, we’re fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in Texas history. We represent Leonel Bermudez, a University of Houston student who suffered rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after extreme hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. According to the lawsuit filed in late 2025, Bermudez endured forced physical abuse, humiliation, and simulated waterboarding that landed him in the hospital for four days with brown urine and critically high creatine kinase levels. The chapter has since been shut down, but his recovery—and our fight for accountability—continues. This case, covered extensively by Click2Houston and ABC13, shows exactly how quickly “tradition” can turn catastrophic.

This guide is written specifically for parents and families in Wilbarger County—whether your children attend Midwestern State University right here in Wichita Falls, commute to Texas A&M University-Commerce in nearby Hunt County, or have ventured further to the University of Texas at Austin, Texas Tech in Lubbock, or other campuses across our state. We’ll explain what hazing really looks like in 2025, how Texas law protects your child, what’s happening at major Texas universities, and what legal options exist when institutions fail to keep students safe.

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)
45- 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

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Methods

For families in Wilbarger County, understanding hazing means looking beyond outdated stereotypes of harmless pranks. Today’s hazing involves sophisticated psychological coercion, digital monitoring, and dangerous physical rituals disguised as “team building” or “tradition.”

Alcohol and Substance Hazing:

Forced consumption games: “Century Club” (100 shots of beer), “Big/Little” nights with handles of liquor
Coerced drinking during “interviews” or “study sessions”
Pressure to consume unknown substances or dangerous mixtures

Physical Hazing:

Extreme “workouts” or “smokings”: hundreds of push-ups, wall-sits until collapse
Paddling or beating with objects (still occurring despite national prohibitions)
Sleep deprivation through all-night “mandatory” events
Exposure to extreme elements: left outside in cold weather, locked in hot spaces

Psychological and Digital Hazing:

24/7 group chat monitoring with instant response demands
Social media humiliation: forced embarrassing posts, TikTok challenges
Geographic tracking via Find My Friends or Life360
Isolation from non-members and family

Sexualized and Degrading Hazing:

Forced nudity or partial nudity
Simulated sexual acts or positions
Humiliating costumes or role-playing
Racist, sexist, or homophobic “traditions”

Where Hazing Happens in Texas

While fraternities receive most attention, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, multicultural)
Corps of Cadets and military-style programs
Athletic Teams (from football to cheerleading)
Spirit and Tradition Groups (Texas Cowboys, etc.)
Marching Bands and Performance Groups
Academic and Service Organizations

Texas Hazing Law: What Wilbarger County Families Need to Know

The Texas Education Code: Your Legal Foundation

Texas has specific anti-hazing laws in Chapter 37 of the Education Code that apply to all educational institutions receiving state funds. For Wilbarger County families, this means protection follows your child whether they’re at Midwestern State University here at home or any state university across Texas.

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

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

Key Protections for Texas Families:

Criminal Penalties (§37.152):

Class B Misdemeanor: Basic hazing (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

Organizational Liability (§37.153):

Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be fined up to $10,000 per violation
Universities can revoke recognition and ban organizations from campus

Critical Protection: Consent is NOT a Defense (§37.155):
Texas law explicitly states that “consent of the hazing victim is not a defense.” This means even if your child “agreed” to participate under peer pressure, it’s still illegal hazing.

Good-Faith Reporting Immunity (§37.154):
Students who report hazing in good faith are protected from civil or criminal liability. Many Texas universities extend this to alcohol amnesty—students won’t face drinking violations if they call for help in a medical emergency.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

Brought by the state (district attorney)
Goal: Punishment (jail, fines, probation)
Charges may include: hazing, assault, furnishing alcohol to minors, manslaughter in fatal cases
Example: Following the 2021 hazing death at Bowling Green State University, multiple fraternity members faced criminal convictions including involuntary manslaughter

Civil Cases:

Brought by victims or families
Goal: Compensation and accountability
Claims may include: negligence, wrongful death, emotional distress, negligent supervision
Example: The Stone Foltz family secured a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national, $3M from BGSU) after their son’s hazing death

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

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

Requires colleges receiving federal aid to publicly report hazing incidents
Mandates hazing prevention education
Phased implementation through 2026
Creates national database of hazing incidents

Title IX:

Applies when hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based hostility
Requires universities to investigate and take prompt action
Can lead to loss of federal funding for non-compliance

Clery Act:

Requires reporting of certain crimes on campus
Hazing incidents involving assault, alcohol crimes, or other Clery offenses must be disclosed

Who Can Be Liable in a Texas Hazing Case?

Individual Students:

Those who planned, executed, or covered up hazing
Officers who knew or should have known

Local Chapter/Organization:

The campus chapter as a legal entity
Housing corporations that own fraternity houses

National Fraternity/Sorority Headquarters:

For negligent supervision or failure to enforce policies
When prior incidents created foreseeable risk

Universities and Governing Boards:

For negligent supervision or deliberate indifference
When they knew of risks and failed to act

Third Parties:

Property owners/landlords of off-campus houses
Alcohol providers (under Texas dram shop law)
Security companies or event organizers

National Hazing Case Patterns: What Texas Can Learn

Alcohol Poisoning & Death: The Most Common Pattern

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

Bid acceptance night with forced drinking
Fell down stairs multiple times; brothers delayed calling 911 for 12 hours
Security camera footage showed horrific neglect
Result: 18 members charged with 1,000+ criminal counts; Pennsylvania passed Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law

Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017):

“Bible study” drinking game: wrong answers = forced drinking
Blood alcohol content: 0.495% (six times legal limit)
Result: Louisiana passed Max Gruver Act; Phi Delta Theta chapter closed; criminal convictions

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

“Big/Little” night: forced to drink entire bottle of whiskey
Died from alcohol poisoning
Result: $10 million settlement ($7M from Pike national, $3M from BGSU); multiple criminal convictions

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

“Big Brother” night with handle of liquor
Died from acute alcohol poisoning
Result: FSU suspended all Greek life; criminal hazing convictions

Physical & Ritualized Hazing: Extreme Violence

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

“Glass ceiling” ritual: blindfolded, weighted with backpack, repeatedly tackled
Died from traumatic brain injury; help delayed
Result: National fraternity convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter; banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years

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

“Pledge dad reveal” night with forced drinking
Suffered permanent brain damage (cannot walk, talk, or see)
Result: Settlements with 22 defendants; chapter closed

Athletic Program Hazing: Beyond Greek Life

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025):

Allegations of sexualized, racist hazing within program
Multiple lawsuits against university
Head coach fired, then settled wrongful termination suit
Takeaway: Hazing extends to multi-million dollar athletic programs

What These Cases Mean for Wilbarger County Families

These national cases establish critical legal principles that protect Texas students:

Universities have duty to protect students from foreseeable harm
National fraternities can be liable for failing to supervise chapters
Pattern evidence matters: When organizations have prior incidents, they’re on notice
Cover-ups increase liability: Destroying evidence or delaying medical care worsens outcomes
Settlements reach millions: Serious injuries and deaths result in substantial compensation

Texas University Focus: Where Wilbarger County Students Attend

Midwestern State University: Our Local Campus

For Wilbarger County families, Midwestern State University represents both a local educational resource and a potential hazing risk environment right here in our community.

Campus & Culture Snapshot:

Public university in Wichita Falls (Wilbarger County)
Approximately 6,000 students
Active Greek life with fraternities and sororities
NCAA Division II athletics

Greek Life at MSU:

Fraternities: Kappa Sigma, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Tau Kappa Epsilon, and others
Sororities: Alpha Sigma Alpha, Sigma Kappa, Zeta Tau Alpha, and others
NPHC Chapters: Historically Black Greek organizations

MSU’s Hazing Policy:

Prohibits hazing on or off campus
Defines hazing broadly per Texas law
Requires reporting to Dean of Students
Disciplinary actions range from warning to expulsion

What Wilbarger County Parents Should Know:

Hazing incidents at MSU would be investigated by MSU Police Department and potentially Wichita Falls Police
Civil cases would be filed in 30th District Court or 78th District Court in Wichita Falls
Local fraternity housing includes both on-campus and off-campus locations
Evidence preservation is critical: Texas’s two-year statute of limitations applies

If Hazing Occurs at MSU:

Report immediately to MSU Dean of Students: (940) 397-7500
Document everything: photos, texts, medical records
Contact Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for legal guidance
Consider parallel reporting to Wichita Falls PD for criminal investigation

Texas A&M University-Commerce: Regional Destination

Many Wilbarger County students attend Texas A&M-Commerce, located just 90 miles southeast in Hunt County.

Campus Profile:

Part of Texas A&M University System
Approximately 12,000 students
Active Greek life with IFC, Panhellenic, and NPHC chapters
Recent growth in student organizations

Notable Hazing History:

Sigma Chi Zeta Eta Chapter: Listed in IRS B83 records with EIN 756060974, PO Box 1403, Commerce, TX 75429
Greek Life Presence: Multiple national fraternities and sororities with Texas-registered entities

Legal Considerations for Commerce Cases:

Jurisdiction split between campus police and Commerce PD
Hunt County courts handle local cases
Proximity to DFW means potential multi-jurisdictional issues
Evidence Collection Tip: Many fraternity houses in Commerce are privately owned—landlord liability may apply

Major Texas Universities: Where Wilbarger County Students Venture

University of Texas at Austin

For Wilbarger County families, UT Austin represents a premier destination with robust Greek life and corresponding risks.

Transparency Leader:

UT maintains public Hazing Violations website
Lists organizations, dates, conduct, and sanctions
Example: Pi Kappa Alpha (2023)—new members forced to consume milk and perform strenuous calisthenics; chapter probation

Recent Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2024): Australian exchange student alleged assault resulting in dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose; sued for over $1 million
“Absolute Texxas” Spirit Group (2022): Disciplined for alcohol/drug misconduct, blindfolding, kidnapping new members

UT’s Legal Environment:

UTPD and Austin PD jurisdiction
Travis County courts handle civil cases
Strong plaintiff-friendly venue historically
Evidence Advantage: UT’s public violation database strengthens pattern arguments

Texas A&M University

The Aggie Network draws Wilbarger County students to College Station, with unique risks including Corps of Cadets hazing.

Corps of Cadets Cases:

2023 Lawsuit: Cadet alleged degrading hazing including simulated sexual acts and being bound between beds in “roasted pig” pose with apple in mouth; sought over $1 million
Traditional Risks: Military-style discipline crossing into abuse

Fraternity Incidents:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021): Pledges allegedly covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, spit causing severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts; fraternity suspended; $1 million lawsuit
Kappa Sigma (2023): Ongoing litigation involving rhabdomyolysis from extreme physical hazing

Legal Considerations:

Texas A&M Police Department and College Station PD jurisdiction
Brazos County courts handle cases
University System Complexities: Sovereign immunity arguments from Texas A&M System

University of Houston

The Leonel Bermudez case represents exactly what can go wrong at a major Texas university.

Case Details (Bermudez v. UH & Pi Kappa Phi):

Hazing Methods: “Pledge fanny pack” with condoms, sex toys; forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, peppercorns until vomiting; 100+ push-ups, 500 squats; hose spraying “similar to waterboarding”
Medical Harm: Rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, brown urine, 4-day hospitalization
Institutional Response: Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspended chapter Nov 6, 2025; chapter surrendered charter Nov 14, 2025; UH called conduct “deeply disturbing”
Defendants: UH, UH System Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national HQ, Beta Nu housing corporation, 13 individual members
Coverage: Click2Houston, ABC13, Hoodline

UH’s Greek Landscape:

50+ fraternity and sorority chapters
Multiple governing councils (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, MGC)
UHPD and Houston PD jurisdiction overlap
Harris County courts handle major litigation

Southern Methodist University

Private university status creates different dynamics for Wilbarger County families considering SMU.

Notable Incident:

Kappa Alpha Order (2017): New members reportedly paddled, forced to drink, deprived of sleep; chapter suspended through 2021

SMU’s Approach:

Anonymous reporting via Real Response system
Private university = less public transparency
Dallas County courts handle litigation
University Park PD primary jurisdiction

Legal Strategy Difference:

No sovereign immunity (private institution)
Potentially deeper insurance coverage
Discovery can compel internal documents not publicly available

Baylor University

Religious identity intersects with hazing risk for Wilbarger County students at Baylor.

Athletic Hazing History:

Baseball Team (2020): 14 players suspended following hazing investigation
Football Program: Previous Title IX scandals inform institutional response patterns

Baylor’s Environment:

“Zero tolerance” policies post-sexual assault scandal
McLennan County courts handle cases
Waco PD and Baylor PD jurisdiction
Religious branding affects public relations approach

The Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: What We Know About Greek Organizations

Public Records Directory: Fraternities and Sororities Serving Texas Families

As part of our investigative approach, we maintain comprehensive data on Greek organizations operating in Texas. For Wilbarger County families, this means we start investigations with knowledge, not from scratch.

Texas-Registered Greek Organizations (IRS B83 Data):
The IRS lists 125+ Texas-registered Greek organizations with EINs, legal names, and mailing addresses. These include house corporations, alumni chapters, and honor societies that may carry insurance or liability.

Examples Relevant to Wilbarger County Student Destinations:

For Texas A&M University Families:

KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC, EIN 133048786, 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S, College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 filing)
GENTLEMEN OF AGGIE TRADITION, EIN 880537463, 3007 Earl Rudder Fwy S Ste 100, College Station, TX 77845 (IRS B83 filing)
HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI – TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY, EIN 900293166, 114 Henderson Hall 4233 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843 (IRS B83 filing)

For University of Houston Families:

SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY EPSILON XI CHAPTER, EIN 746084905, 4300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Houston, TX 77204 (IRS B83 filing)
PI KAPPA PHI DELTA OMEGA CHAPTER BUILDING CORPORATION, EIN 371768785, 4102 Eastshore St, Missouri City, TX 77459 (IRS B83 filing)
ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED – SIGMA GAMMA CHAPTER, EIN 392352450, PO Box 540026, Houston, TX 77254 (IRS B83 filing)

For University of Texas at Austin Families:

CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY, EIN 740555581, 2711 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705 (IRS B83 filing – Chi Omega House Corporation)
BUILDING CORPORATION OF DELTA CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA PI, EIN 746047117, 2620 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705 (IRS B83 filing)
HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI – TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY, EIN 463831593, 2307 Vanderbilt Cir, Austin, TX 78723 (IRS B83 filing)

For Texas Tech University Families:

EPSILON NU HOUSING CORPORATION, EIN 237359384, c/o Patrick Simek 1812 Broadway, Lubbock, TX 79401 (IRS B83 filing)
FARM HOUSE FRATERNITY INC – TEXAS TECH CHAPTER, EIN 751565336, 3 Greek Cir, Lubbock, TX 79416 (IRS B83 filing)
ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON-BETA ALPHA CHAPTER, EIN 473967233, 4640 Erskine St Apt B, Lubbock, TX 79416 (IRS B83 filing)

Metro-Level Greek Presence (Cause IQ Data):

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro (510 organizations):

Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity, 12650 N Beach St #30, Suite 114, Fort Worth, TX 76244
Texas Kappa Sigma Educational Foundation, Fort Worth, TX
Delta Delta Delta – Arlington Alumnae Chapter, Dallas, TX

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Metro (188 organizations):

Texas District of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, Houston, TX
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority – Houston Alumnae, Houston, TX
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority – Beta Sigma Chapter, Houston, TX

Lubbock Metro (59 organizations):

Texas Tech Chapter of Phi Delta Theta Housing, Lubbock, TX
Kappa Alpha Order – Texas Tech (Gamma Chi), Lubbock, TX
Delta Kappa Gamma Society – Lubbock, Lubbock, TX

Why This Directory Matters for Wilbarger County Families:

Insurance Identification: These entities often carry liability insurance
Liability Tracing: Multiple organizations may share responsibility
Investigation Starting Point: We know where to send subpoenas
Pattern Evidence: Multiple chapters of same national show foreseeability

National Fraternity Histories: Patterns That Repeat in Texas

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State University, 2021 – alcohol poisoning death
David Bogenberger: Northern Illinois University, 2012 – alcohol poisoning death, $14M settlement
Texas Presence: Chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, SMU, Baylor
Legal Significance: National had notice of Big/Little alcohol risks before Foltz death

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

Traumatic Brain Injury Case: University of Alabama, 2023 – lawsuit alleging TBI during hazing
Chemical Burns Case: Texas A&M, 2021 – industrial cleaner burns requiring skin grafts
Assault Case: UT Austin, 2024 – exchange student injuries, $1M+ lawsuit
Texas Presence: Chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, SMU, Baylor

Pi Kappa Phi:

Andrew Coffey: Florida State University, 2017 – alcohol poisoning death
Leonel Bermudez: University of Houston, 2025 – rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure
Texas Presence: Chapter at University of Houston (Beta Nu now closed)

Phi Delta Theta:

Max Gruver: LSU, 2017 – “Bible study” drinking game death
Louisiana Response: Max Gruver Act (felony hazing statute)
Texas Presence: Chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech

Kappa Sigma:

Chad Meredith: University of Miami, 2001 – drowning, $12.6M verdict
Texas A&M Case: 2023, ongoing rhabdomyolysis litigation
Texas Presence: Chapters at UT Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, SMU

How National Histories Create Liability in Texas Cases

Foreseeability Doctrine:
When a national fraternity has prior incidents at other chapters, they’re on notice of risks. If they fail to prevent similar conduct at Texas chapters, that’s negligence.

Negligent Supervision Claims:
Nationals collect dues, provide training, and exercise control. If their supervision is inadequate, they can be liable.

Punitive Damages Potential:
When organizations ignore clear warnings or prior incidents, Texas courts may award punitive damages to punish reckless conduct.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery

Critical Evidence in Modern Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important Category):

Group Chats: GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, fraternity apps
Social Media: Instagram stories, Snapchat snaps, TikTok videos
Recovery Potential: Digital forensics can retrieve deleted messages
Our Video Resource: Using your phone to document evidence

Photographic and Video Evidence:

Injuries documented over time (shows progression)
Event locations and participants
Social media posts showing hazing activities

Medical Documentation:

ER records showing alcohol levels, injuries
Specialist reports for ongoing conditions
Psychological evaluations for PTSD, depression

Organizational Records:

Pledge manuals, “tradition” documents
National fraternity policies and training materials
University conduct files and prior incident reports

Witness Testimony:

Other pledges experiencing similar treatment
Former members who quit due to hazing
Roommates, friends, or bystanders

The Damages Recovery Framework

Economic Damages (Quantifiable Losses):

Medical bills (past and future)
Lost educational opportunities (withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships)
Diminished earning capacity (permanent injuries affecting work ability)
Therapy and counseling costs

Non-Economic Damages:

Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress, trauma, humiliation
Loss of enjoyment of life
Damage to reputation and relationships

Wrongful Death Damages (for Families):

Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of financial support
Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
Emotional suffering of family members

Punitive Damages (When Available):

Punishes especially reckless or malicious conduct
Deters future hazing
Available when defendants ignore prior warnings or engage in cover-ups

Settlement vs. Trial: Realistic Expectations

Most Cases Settle Confidentially:

95%+ of hazing cases settle before trial
Confidentiality protects victim privacy
Avoids drawn-out litigation stress

When Trials Happen:

Defendants refuse reasonable settlement offers
Case establishes important legal precedent
Families seek public accountability
Our Approach: We prepare every case for trial to maximize settlement leverage

Recent Settlement Benchmarks:

Stone Foltz: $10 million total ($7M national, $3M university)
David Bogenberger: $14 million settlement
Sigma Chi (College of Charleston): $10+ million settlement
Max Gruver: $6.1 million verdict plus confidential settlements

Practical Guides for Wilbarger County Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Hazed:

Physical Indicators:

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
Extreme exhaustion beyond normal college stress
Weight changes from food/water restriction
Sleep deprivation (late night calls, 3 AM “mandatory” events)

Behavioral Changes:

Sudden secrecy about organization activities
Withdrawal from family and old friends
Anxiety, depression, or personality changes
Defensive when asked about the group
Constant phone monitoring for group chat demands

Academic Red Flags:

Grades dropping suddenly
Missing classes or falling asleep in class
Skipping assignments for “mandatory” events

Digital Behavior:

Obsessive phone use responding to messages
Anxiety about missing group chat notifications
Deleting messages or browser history
New location-sharing app requirements

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 you to do as a new member?”
“Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable?”
“Do you feel like you can leave if you want to?”

48-Hour Action Plan for Parents:

Hour 1-6 (Immediate Crisis):
✅ Medical: If injured or intoxicated, get to ER immediately
✅ Safety: Remove child from dangerous situation
✅ Evidence: Screenshot any messages; photograph injuries
✅ Notes: Write down everything they tell you (date, time, details)
✅ Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate guidance

Hour 6-24 (Evidence Preservation):
✅ Digital: Help preserve all group chats, texts (DO NOT DELETE)
✅ Physical: Secure clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing
✅ Medical Records: Request copies of all ER/hospital records
✅ Witnesses: Write down names and contact info for others
✅ University: Note any school communications but don’t respond yet

Hour 24-48 (Strategic Decisions):
✅ Legal Consultation: Speak with experienced hazing attorney
✅ Reporting Decision: Decide whether to report to campus/local police
✅ University Response: If school contacts you, refer them to your attorney
✅ Insurance: DO NOT talk to insurance adjusters without lawyer
✅ Evidence Backup: Upload all screenshots to cloud storage

For Students: Self-Protection and Safe Exit Strategies

Is This Hazing? Self-Assessment:

Am I being forced or pressured to do something unsafe?
Would I do this if I had a real choice without consequences?
Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
Would my parents/university approve if they knew exactly what’s happening?
Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about activities?

If You Answer YES to Any Question, It’s Likely Hazing

Safe Exit Strategies:

Immediate Danger: Call 911 or campus police
Safe Location: Go to dorm, friend’s place, or public area
Good-Faith Protection: Texas law protects those who call for help in emergencies

How to Quit/De-pledge Safely:

Tell someone outside the organization first (parent, RA, friend)
Send email/text to chapter president: “I resign my membership effective immediately”
Do NOT go to “one last meeting” where pressure might occur
If fearing retaliation, report to Dean of Students and campus police

Evidence Collection for Students:

Screenshots: Capture full conversations with timestamps
Recordings: Texas is one-party consent state (you can record conversations you’re part of)
Photos: Injuries from multiple angles; locations; objects used
Medical: Tell providers you were hazed so it’s documented
Witness Info: Names/contacts of others who saw what happened

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

Mistake #1: Deleting Evidence

What happens: Parents think “I don’t want them in more trouble”
Why it’s wrong: Looks like cover-up; obstruction of justice; case becomes impossible
Better approach: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content

Mistake #2: Confronting the Organization Directly

What happens: Parents want to “give them a piece of my mind”
Why it’s wrong: They lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses
Better approach: Document everything, call attorney first

Mistake #3: Signing University “Resolution” Forms

What happens: Universities pressure families to sign waivers
Why it’s wrong: You may waive right to sue; settlements often undervalue cases
Better approach: DO NOT sign anything without attorney review

Mistake #4: Posting on Social Media

What happens: Families want people to know what happened
Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility
Better approach: Document privately; let your lawyer control messaging

Mistake #5: Letting Your Child Go to “One Last Meeting”

What happens: Fraternities say “come talk before you do anything”
Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, extract damaging statements
Better approach: Once considering legal action, all communication goes through attorney

Mistake #6: Waiting for University Investigation

What happens: Universities say “we’re investigating internally”
Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute runs
Better approach: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately

Mistake #7: Talking to Insurance Adjusters

What happens: Adjusters say “we just need your statement”
Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements used against you; settlements are lowball
Better approach: “My attorney will contact you”

Watch our video on client mistakes: Common errors that can ruin your case

Frequently Asked Questions for Wilbarger County Families

“Can we sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like Texas A&M, UT Austin) have sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and individual employee liability. Private universities (SMU, Baylor) have fewer immunity protections. Every case is fact-specific.

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

“What if my child ‘agreed’ to participate?”
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 in Texas, but the “discovery rule” may extend this if harm wasn’t immediately known. Time is critical—evidence disappears fast. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

“Will this be confidential or public?”
Most cases settle confidentially before trial. You can request sealed court records. We prioritize family privacy while pursuing accountability.

“What will this cost our family?”
We work on contingency fee—no upfront costs, no fee unless we win. Learn more: How contingency fees work

“What if hazing happened off-campus?”
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and nationals can still be liable based on sponsorship, control, and knowledge. Many major cases occurred off-campus.

Why Attorney911 for Wilbarger County Hazing Cases

Our Unique Qualifications for Texas Hazing Litigation

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.

Insurance Insider Advantage (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) claims, their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies. We know their playbook because we used to run it. Learn about Mr. Peña’s background

Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello):
Our firm was one of the few in Texas involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation. We’ve faced billion-dollar defendants and won. We’re not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their defense teams. Ralph Manginello’s complete credentials

Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death Experience:
We have a proven track record in complex wrongful death cases with economist collaboration. We understand how to value lifetime care needs for brain injuries, permanent disabilities, and catastrophic harm. 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) means we understand how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. We can advise witnesses and former members with dual exposure.

Investigative Depth:
Our network includes medical experts, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists. We know how to obtain hidden evidence: deleted group chats, chapter records, university files. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

Spanish Language Services:
Hablamos Español. Mr. Peña speaks fluent Spanish and can provide full services to Hispanic families in Wilbarger County and across Texas.

Our Approach: Thorough, Strategic, Victim-Centered

We Start with Data:
Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine includes 1,423 Greek organizations tracked across 25 Texas metros. We don’t start from scratch—we start with knowledge.

We Understand Texas Universities:
From Midwestern State University here in Wilbarger County to flagship campuses across Texas, we know the policies, the politics, and the patterns.

We Prepare Every Case for Trial:
Universities and fraternities know which lawyers will actually go to trial. Our trial readiness changes how they negotiate from day one.

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.

Your Next Step: Contact Attorney911 Today

Confidential Consultation for Wilbarger County Families

If you or your child experienced hazing at any Texas campus—from Midwestern State University here in Wichita Falls to universities across the state—we want to hear from you. Families in Wilbarger County and throughout North Texas have the right to answers and accountability.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

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

Contact Us 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

Spanish Language Services:

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

About Our Firm

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Legal Emergency Lawyers™
Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Serving families throughout Texas, including Wilbarger County and North Texas

Practice Areas Relevant to Hazing Cases:

Wrongful Death Claims: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
− Complex Personal Injury Litigation
Institutional Accountability Cases
Insurance Coverage Disputes

Our Promise:
Immediate, aggressive, professional help when you need it most. That’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

Whether you’re in Wilbarger County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions involved have lawyers protecting them. You should too.

Call us today: 1-888-ATTY-911

Plain Text Links to Key Resources

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

Click2Houston investigation: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/
ABC13 coverage with detailed timeline: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/
Hoodline summary of $10M lawsuit: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/

Attorney911 Educational Videos:

Using your phone to document evidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
Texas statutes of limitations explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
Client mistakes that can ruin your case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
How contingency fees work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

Attorney911 Website:

Main website & contact: https://attorney911.com
Wrongful death practice: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/
Ralph Manginello profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/
Lupe Peña profile: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

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 | lupe@atty911.com