Frequently Asked Questions

Does it matter if I did not intend to hurt anyone?

Regardless of the intent, the university policies state that if one of the above occurs, it is hazing.

Does it matter if the person being hazed agrees to the activity?

Consent is not a defense. The law and university policy states that if one of the above occurs, it is hazing, regardless of the consent or cooperation of the recipient.

What is the penalty if I'm found responsible for hazing?

Hazing is a violation of state law and the UNT Code of Student Conduct. Students who commit hazing can be held accountable by the university through its conduct process as well as by the state through the legal system. University sanctions for hazing can include a warning, loss of privileges, educational sanctions, probation, suspension, or expulsion. Criminal penalties for hazing can include:

• Failing to report hazing: fine up to $1,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail
• Hazing not resulting in serious bodily injury: fine of $500-$1,000 and/or 90-180 days in jail
• Hazing resulting in serious bodily injury: fine of $1,000-$5,000 and/or 180 days-one year in jail
• Hazing resulting in death: fine of $5,000-$10,000 and/or 1-2 years in jail
• Except where the hazing results in death, the student may be required to perform community service in lieu of confinement to jail
• The student may also be subject to university disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the University, in addition to or regardless of any penalty imposed by the state.

Can an organization be found guilty of hazing?

Yes. An organization commits an offense if the organization condones or encourages hazing or if an officer or any combination of members, pledges, or alumni of the organization commits or assists in the commission of hazing. Organizations which are covered under this law include a fraternity, sorority, association, corporation, order, society, chorus, cooperative, club, or service, social or similar group whose members are primarily students at an educational institution.

Can I get into trouble for reporting hazing?

No. Any person who reports a specific hazing incident involving a student to an appropriate University official is protected from civil or criminal liability. However, a person who reports in bad faith or with malice is not protected by this section.

The Interfraternity and Panhellenic Councils have a comprehensive hazing policy which is outlined in their Constitution and By-Laws.

The University Hazing Policy can be found in the UNT Student Handbook and UNT Policy Manual (Section 18.1.12).