π¨ Hazing Victims in Randolph County, Arkansas: Your Rights, Your Recovery
Attorney 911 β Legal Emergency Lawyersβ’ β Now Serving Randolph County Families
β οΈ This Is Happening in Randolph County β And We Can Help
You thought it was just “tradition.” You thought it was just “a little fun.” You thought it was how you made friends.
But it wasn’t.
It was waterboarding. It was forced exercise until you couldn’t stand. It was wooden paddles striking your body. It was being humiliated, degraded, and left in fear.
And it was illegal.
This isn’t just happening in Houston or Texas A&M. It’s happening right here in Randolph County β at Arkansas State University, Black River Technical College, and other schools where Greek life thrives. The same fraternities that have paid millions in settlements operate chapters near Randolph County. The same hazing culture exists here. And the same legal rights apply.
If you or your child has been hazed in Randolph County, Arkansas, you are not alone. We are fighting this battle right now β and we will fight for you.
π’ Who We Are: Randolph County’s Hazing Litigation Experts
Attorney 911 β Legal Emergency Lawyersβ’
We are personal injury and hazing litigation attorneys with offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas. But our reach extends nationwide β including Randolph County, Arkansas.
Why Randolph County families choose us:
| Advantage | How It Helps You |
|---|---|
| 25+ Years Courtroom Experience | We know how to win against powerful institutions |
| Former Insurance Defense Attorneys | We know their playbook β and how to beat it |
| Federal Court Authority | We can pursue your case in federal court if needed |
| Dual-State Bar Admission (Texas & New York) | Strategic advantage for cases against national fraternities |
| Nationwide Hazing Expertise | We’re currently litigating a $10M hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi |
| Se Habla EspaΓ±ol | Bilingual staff serving Randolph County’s Spanish-speaking families |
| Contingency Fee Representation | $0 upfront β we don’t get paid unless you get paid |
| Willingness to Travel | We come to Randolph County for depositions, meetings, and trials |
We don’t just talk about hazing. We’re fighting it in court right now. And we’ll fight for Randolph County victims with the same aggression.
π The Hazing Crisis in Randolph County
It’s Not “Tradition” β It’s Abuse
Hazing isn’t harmless. It’s not “boys being boys.” It’s not “building character.”
It is:
- Assault β physical contact intended to cause harm
- Battery β offensive or harmful touching
- Torture β waterboarding, sleep deprivation, forced consumption
- Reckless Endangerment β putting someone in danger of serious injury
- Sometimes Manslaughter β when hazing kills
And it’s happening in Randolph County.
Randolph County’s Greek Life Landscape
While Randolph County itself doesn’t host a major university, it’s surrounded by institutions where Greek life thrives:
| Institution | Location | Distance from Randolph County | Greek Life Presence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro, AR | ~30 miles | Strong Greek system with multiple fraternities and sororities |
| Black River Technical College | Pocahontas, AR | Within Randolph County | Smaller Greek presence but still active |
| University of Arkansas | Fayetteville, AR | ~180 miles | Large, well-established Greek system |
| Arkansas Tech University | Russellville, AR | ~130 miles | Active Greek community |
| Harding University | Searcy, AR | ~150 miles | Strong Greek presence with historical significance |
The same national fraternities involved in hazing deaths nationwide have chapters at these Arkansas institutions:
- Pi Kappa Phi
- Sigma Alpha Epsilon
- Pi Kappa Alpha
- Phi Delta Theta
- Sigma Chi
- Kappa Sigma
- And many more
If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority at any of these schools, they face the same risks that hospitalized our client in Houston.
π¨ The Landmark Case: This Is What Hazing Looks Like
Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi β $10 Million Lawsuit (2025)
This case is happening NOW. This is what hazing looks like. And this is what we do about it.
What Happened:
- Victim: Leonel Bermudez β a “ghost rush” (not even enrolled at University of Houston yet)
- Fraternity: Pi Kappa Phi
- University: University of Houston
- Date: Fall 2025
- Hazing Activities:
- Waterboarding with a garden hose β simulated drowning
- Forced to do 500 squats and 100+ pushups β until he couldn’t stand
- Struck with wooden paddles
- Forced to eat milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting
- Forced to continue running sprints while in physical distress after vomiting
- Forced to lie in vomit-soaked grass
- Another pledge hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour
- A pledge lost consciousness and collapsed during forced workout
- Threatened with expulsion if he didn’t comply
- Result: Severe rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) and acute kidney failure
- Hospitalization: 3 nights, 4 days
The Aftermath:
- Pi Kappa Phi immediately suspended and dissolved the chapter β they knew what was coming
- $10 million lawsuit filed by Attorney 911
- National media coverage β ABC13, KHOU 11, Houston Chronicle, Houston Public Media
- University of Houston admitted the events were “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of community standards”
Why This Matters to Randolph County:
- Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters across America β including near Randolph County
- The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client happen at Arkansas chapters
- Universities near Randolph County face the same liability failures
- If your child is being hazed in Randolph County, we will fight for you just like we’re fighting in Houston
βοΈ Your Legal Rights as a Randolph County Hazing Victim
Arkansas Hazing Laws
Arkansas Code Β§ 6-5-201 to 6-5-206 β Anti-Hazing Statutes
Definition of Hazing (Β§ 6-5-201):
Any intentional or reckless act, on or off campus, by one (1) student alone or acting with others, directed against any other student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, participating in, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization.
This definition covers:
- Physical brutality (paddling, beating, forced exercise)
- Forced consumption (alcohol, food, non-food substances)
- Sleep deprivation
- Psychological abuse
- Any activity that endangers mental or physical health
Criminal Penalties (Β§ 6-5-206):
| Offense Level | Conduct | Punishment |
|---|---|---|
| Class A Misdemeanor | Engaging in hazing | Up to 1 year in jail; up to $2,500 fine |
| Class D Felony | Hazing that causes serious physical injury or death | Up to 6 years in prison; up to $10,000 fine |
Organizational Liability (Β§ 6-5-203):
Organizations that knowingly permit hazing can be:
- Fined up to $10,000
- Denied recognition by the educational institution
Consent Is Not a Defense (Β§ 6-5-205):
“It is not a defense in a prosecution for hazing that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”
This is critical: When fraternities argue “he agreed to participate,” Arkansas law says consent does not matter.
Civil Liability β What You Can Sue For
Even if no criminal charges are filed, you can sue for money damages in civil court.
Who Can Be Sued:
- The local fraternity/sorority chapter
- The national fraternity/sorority organization
- The university or college (if they knew or should have known)
- Individual members who participated
- Chapter officers (president, pledgemaster, etc.)
- Housing corporations that own fraternity/sorority houses
- Alumni who host or facilitate hazing
What You Can Recover:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Hospital bills, doctor visits, therapy, future medical care |
| Lost Wages | Time missed from work due to injuries or recovery |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain from hazing activities and injuries |
| Mental Anguish | PTSD, anxiety, depression, fear of retribution |
| Emotional Distress | Humiliation, shame, loss of trust |
| Loss of Enjoyment of Life | Inability to participate in normal activities |
| Punitive Damages | Additional money to punish the defendants for egregious conduct |
| Educational Damages | Disruption to education, lost scholarships, delayed graduation |
π° Precedent Cases: Hazing Victims Win Millions
These cases prove that hazing lawsuits succeed β and that Randolph County victims can win too.
| Case | University | Fraternity | Outcome | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stone Foltz | Bowling Green State | Pi Kappa Alpha | Settlement | $10.1 Million+ |
| Maxwell Gruver | Louisiana State | Phi Delta Theta | Jury Verdict | $6.1 Million |
| Timothy Piazza | Penn State | Beta Theta Pi | Settlement | $110 Million+ (estimated) |
| Andrew Coffey | Florida State | Pi Kappa Phi | Settlement | Confidential (multi-million) |
| Tucker Hipps | Clemson | Sigma Phi Epsilon | Settlement | $500,000+ |
Key Lessons for Randolph County Victims:
- Juries and courts award millions for hazing injuries and deaths
- Universities and national organizations pay β they have deep pockets
- Individual members can be held personally liable β like the $6.5 million judgment against a chapter president
- These cases drive legislative change β new laws named after victims
- The same legal strategies apply in Arkansas β your case can succeed
π What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Randolph County
Step-by-Step Action Guide
1. Ensure Immediate Safety
- Remove your child from the dangerous situation immediately
- If they’re in medical distress, call 911
- Do not let them return to the fraternity/sorority house
2. Seek Medical Attention
- Go to the emergency room even if injuries seem minor
- Hazing injuries like rhabdomyolysis may not show symptoms immediately
- Medical records are critical evidence
- Ask for copies of all medical records and bills
3. Preserve All Evidence
- Photos/Videos: Take pictures of injuries at all stages of healing
- Communications: Save all texts, GroupMe messages, Snapchats, Instagram DMs, emails
- Documents: Save any pledge manuals, schedules, or rules given to your child
- Witnesses: Get names and contact information of other pledges and witnesses
- Social Media: Screenshot any posts or messages about hazing (but don’t post about the incident yourself)
- Clothing/Items: Preserve any clothing or items used in hazing (paddles, fanny packs, etc.)
4. Do NOT Talk to the Organization
- Do not confront fraternity/sorority leadership
- Do not give statements to the organization
- Do not sign anything from the organization
- Do not delete anything β this is destruction of evidence
5. Report the Incident
- File a police report β hazing is a crime in Arkansas
- Report to the university β file a Title IX complaint if applicable
- Report to the national organization β but expect them to protect themselves, not you
6. Contact an Attorney Immediately
- Call Attorney 911 at 1-888-ATTY-911
- Do not speak to insurance companies or university lawyers without your attorney present
- We offer free consultations and work on contingency β $0 upfront
7. Follow Your Attorney’s Advice
- We will guide you through every step
- We will handle all communications with the defendants
- We will preserve evidence and build your case
- We will fight for maximum compensation
π Warning Signs of Hazing in Randolph County
Hazing often starts subtly and escalates. Watch for these signs:
| Category | Warning Signs |
|---|---|
| Physical | Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries β’ Complaints of soreness or pain β’ Difficulty walking β’ Signs of sleep deprivation (dark circles, exhaustion) |
| Behavioral | Sudden withdrawal or depression β’ Anxiety or fear β’ Avoidance of certain people or places β’ Secrecy about activities β’ Sudden changes in routine |
| Academic | Declining grades β’ Skipping classes β’ Difficulty concentrating β’ Missing assignments |
| Social | Sudden isolation from friends β’ New friend group that seems controlling β’ Fear of social media posts β’ Reluctance to talk about Greek life |
| Financial | Sudden requests for money β’ Unexplained expenses β’ Missing personal items |
| Communication | Receiving strange texts or messages β’ Being required to carry specific items β’ Being given nicknames or demeaning labels |
If you notice these signs, ask questions. If you suspect hazing, act immediately.
π― Why Randolph County Victims Choose Attorney 911
1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now
- We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi
- We know how to build these cases
- We know how to win against powerful institutions
- Randolph County victims get the same aggressive representation
2. We Know the Defendants’ Playbook
- Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena are former insurance defense attorneys
- We know how insurance companies and institutional defendants think
- We know their strategies for minimizing claims
- We know how to dismantle their defenses
3. We Have Federal Court Authority
- Admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
- Can pursue Randolph County cases in federal court if needed
- Strategic advantage for cases against national organizations
4. We Travel to Randolph County
- We come to Randolph County for depositions, client meetings, and trials
- Distance is not a barrier to justice
- We offer video consultations for Randolph County families
5. We Work on Contingency β $0 Upfront
- You pay nothing to hire us
- We don’t get paid unless you get paid
- No hourly fees, no retainers
- We take the financial risk so you can focus on recovery
6. We Speak Spanish
- Se habla espaΓ±ol β bilingual staff available
- No language barriers to justice
- Spanish-speaking families in Randolph County are welcome
7. We Care About More Than Money
“If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” β Lupe Pena
- We see your child as a person, not a paycheck
- We want to stop hazing culture, not just win cases
- We fight for justice, accountability, and change
ποΈ Who Is Liable? Everyone Who Allowed Hazing in Randolph County
The Web of Liability β We Sue Everyone Responsible
| Defendant | Why They’re Liable |
|---|---|
| Local Chapter | Directly organized and conducted hazing |
| National Organization | Failed to supervise; knew about hazing risks; failed to enforce policies |
| University/College | Failed to protect students; knew or should have known about hazing; premises liability if they own the house |
| Chapter Officers | Leadership responsibility; directed hazing activities |
| Individual Members | Participated in hazing; failed to stop abuse |
| Alumni | Hosted hazing at their homes; facilitated abuse |
| Housing Corporation | Owned property where hazing occurred; premises liability |
| Insurance Companies | Coverage for institutional and individual liability |
We don’t just sue the local chapter. We sue everyone with money and responsibility.
π‘ Common Defenses β And How We Defeat Them
Defendants will try to avoid responsibility. Here’s how they’ll argue β and how we’ll respond:
| Defense Claim | Our Counter-Argument |
|---|---|
| “He consented to participate” | Arkansas law explicitly says consent is not a defense (Β§ 6-5-205) |
| “He knew the risks” | Victims rarely know what they’re truly consenting to β hazing is hidden until it happens |
| “He could have left at any time” | Fear of retaliation, social ostracism, and losing membership creates duress |
| “It’s just tradition” | Tradition doesn’t make illegal activity legal β assault is assault |
| “Everyone does it” | Even if true, that doesn’t excuse the conduct β it proves systemic failure |
| “He was drinking voluntarily” | Forced consumption β voluntary β peer pressure and threats create coercion |
| “The university didn’t know” | Universities have a duty to monitor Greek life β failure to know is negligence |
| “It was just a prank” | Waterboarding, 500 squats, and wooden paddles are not pranks β they’re abuse |
β³ Statute of Limitations β Act Now
Arkansas Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury:
- 3 years from the date of injury
This means you have 3 years from the hazing incident to file a lawsuit.
But don’t wait:
- Evidence disappears
- Witnesses forget
- Organizations destroy records
- Your rights expire
Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case acted immediately β hospitalized in November 2025, lawsuit filed within weeks. This is how you protect your rights.
π₯ The Message to Randolph County Fraternities: We Are Watching
To every fraternity operating near Randolph County:
We know who you are. We know your corporate structures. We know your insurance policies. We know your national organizations have paid millions in hazing settlements.
And we know what you’re doing to our kids.
Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Sigma Chi, Kappa Sigma β if your chapter operates near Randolph County, know this:
- We are Attorney 911.
- We are Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena.
- We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit.
- We know how to find the money.
- We know how to hold you accountable.
- And we are coming for every institution, every chapter, every individual who thinks they can torture our kids and walk away.
The Beta Nu chapter at University of Houston? Shut down. Charter surrendered. Criminal referrals initiated. Our client’s lawsuit is ongoing.
That’s what happens when you haze in America. And that’s what will happen in Randolph County if you don’t stop now.
π Randolph County Families: Call Now β Free Consultation
If you or your child has been hazed in Randolph County, Arkansas, you have legal rights. We can help.
Call Attorney 911 Now β 24/7 Free Consultation
π 1-888-ATTY-911
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com
We work on contingency β $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless you get paid.
We come to Randolph County. We offer video consultations. Distance is not a barrier to justice.
π¬ Frequently Asked Questions β Randolph County Hazing Victims
Q: My child was hazed at Arkansas State University. Can you help even though you’re based in Texas?
A: Absolutely. While we’re based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide. We have federal court authority and are willing to travel to Randolph County and Jonesboro for your case. Many of our clients are outside Texas β including in Arkansas. Distance is not a barrier.
Q: What if my child is afraid of retribution?
A: We understand. Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case is “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution” (ABC13). This fear is real, and it’s why many victims don’t come forward.
We protect our clients:
- We handle all communications with the defendants
- We can pursue the case confidentially
- We work to prevent retaliation
- We have experience protecting vulnerable clients
And remember: the longer you wait, the harder it is to gather evidence and protect your rights.
Q: How much does it cost to hire you?
A: $0 upfront. We work on contingency β we don’t get paid unless you get paid. Our fee is a percentage of your recovery, so there’s no financial risk to you.
This means:
- No hourly fees
- No retainers
- No upfront costs
- No payment unless we win
We take the financial risk so you can focus on recovery and justice.
Q: What if the fraternity says it was just “tradition” and not hazing?
A: Arkansas law doesn’t care about “tradition.” The law defines hazing based on whether the activity endangers mental or physical health β not whether it’s “traditional.”
Waterboarding, forced exercise until collapse, wooden paddles β these are not “traditions.” They’re abuse. And they’re illegal.
Q: Can we sue the university even if they didn’t directly participate?
A: Yes. Universities have a duty to protect students. If they knew or should have known about hazing and failed to stop it, they can be held liable.
In our Pi Kappa Phi case:
- University of Houston owned the fraternity house where hazing occurred
- They had a prior hazing incident in 2017 at a different fraternity
- They failed to implement meaningful oversight
- They are named as defendants in our lawsuit
The same liability applies to Arkansas universities.
Q: What if my child was drinking during the hazing? Does that affect the case?
A: No. Even if your child consumed alcohol, that doesn’t excuse the fraternity’s conduct.
Key points:
- Forced consumption β voluntary β peer pressure and threats create coercion
- Consent to drinking β consent to hazing β Arkansas law says consent to hazing is not a defense
- The fraternity is responsible for creating the environment where forced drinking occurs
In the Stone Foltz case, the fraternity argued the victim “chose” to drink. The jury awarded $10.1 million anyway.
Q: How long does a hazing lawsuit take?
A: It depends on the complexity of the case. Some cases settle within months. Others take years.
Factors that affect timeline:
- Severity of injuries
- Number of defendants
- Whether the case goes to trial
- Insurance company cooperation
In our Pi Kappa Phi case:
- Hazing occurred in Fall 2025
- Lawsuit filed in November 2025
- Case is ongoing
We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible, but we won’t rush if it means getting you less than you deserve.
Q: What if my child doesn’t want to sue because they still want to be part of Greek life?
A: We understand. Many victims feel conflicted β they want justice but also want to belong.
Important points:
- You can still pursue legal action confidentially β we can protect your identity
- The lawsuit is against the organization, not individual members β we’re going after the system, not just the people
- Holding them accountable may be the only way to change the culture β if no one speaks up, the abuse continues
- You can still be part of Greek life at another chapter or university β this doesn’t have to define your future
Talk to us. We can help you weigh your options.
Q: Can we sue if the hazing didn’t cause physical injury?
A: Yes. Even without physical injury, hazing can cause:
- PTSD
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Emotional distress
- Loss of trust
- Academic decline
These are all compensable injuries. We’ve represented clients with psychological trauma from hazing, and we can help you too.
Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?
A: It doesn’t matter. Arkansas hazing law applies to activities on or off campus. If the hazing occurred as part of the pledge process, it’s covered.
In our Pi Kappa Phi case, hazing occurred at:
- The fraternity house (owned by the university)
- A private residence (former member’s home)
- Other unspecified locations
All locations are covered under the law.
Q: How much money can we recover?
A: It depends on the severity of the hazing and the damages suffered. Hazing cases have resulted in:
- $10.1 million (Stone Foltz)
- $6.1 million (Maxwell Gruver)
- $110+ million (Timothy Piazza)
Factors that increase case value:
- Severe physical injuries
- Hospitalization
- Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
- Pattern of abuse (weeks or months of hazing)
- Institutional knowledge (university/fraternity knew about prior incidents)
- Egregious conduct (waterboarding, paddling, forced consumption)
- Wrongful death
We will evaluate your case and fight for maximum compensation.
π To Randolph County Parents: Your Child Trusted These People
You sent your child to college expecting them to be safe. You trusted the university. You trusted the fraternity. You trusted that the adults in charge would protect your child.
That trust was betrayed.
This isn’t just about “tradition” or “building character.” This is about abuse. This is about institutions failing to protect our kids. This is about a culture that allows torture to be called brotherhood.
We understand the pain. We understand the rage. And we’re here to help.
π Our Promise to Randolph County Families
- We will listen β without judgment, without pressure
- We will investigate β thoroughly, aggressively, professionally
- We will fight β for every dollar you deserve
- We will protect you β from retaliation, from intimidation
- We will honor your child β by ensuring this never happens to another family
You are not alone. We are Attorney 911. And we are here to help.
π Call Now β Free Consultation for Randolph County Hazing Victims
1-888-ATTY-911
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com
$0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless you get paid. We come to Randolph County.
π Enough is Enough. It’s Time to Fight Back.
Randolph County families: The same fraternities that have paid millions in settlements operate near you. The same hazing culture exists at your universities. The same legal rights apply.
If your child has been hazed, we can help. Call us now.