🚨 Fresno County Hazing Attorney – Aggressive Legal Help for Victims
Hazing isn’t tradition. It’s abuse. And in Fresno County, we’re fighting back.
If your child was hazed at a Fresno County fraternity, sorority, sports team, or student organization – we can help. Attorney 911 is currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for waterboarding, forced exercise, and physical abuse that hospitalized a student with kidney failure. The same national fraternities operate in Fresno County. The same negligence exists at Fresno County universities. And we’re ready to fight for Fresno County families.
📞 Fresno County Families: Call Now – 1-888-ATTY-911
🔥 This Is Happening in Fresno County Right Now
The same fraternities that waterboarded our client in Houston have chapters near Fresno County. The same national organizations that ignored Andrew Coffey’s death in 2017 are operating in Fresno County today. The same universities that failed to stop hazing in 2017 are failing Fresno County students right now.
If your child attends college near Fresno County – at Fresno State, Fresno Pacific University, Clovis Community College, or any other institution – they are at risk.
Fresno County Parents: This Could Be Your Child
- Waterboarding with garden hoses
- Forced to do 500 squats until muscles break down
- Struck with wooden paddles
- Forced to eat until vomiting
- Hog-tied with objects in their mouths
- Collapsing from exhaustion – and fraternity members waiting hours to call 911
This isn’t “boys being boys.” This is torture. And it’s happening in Fresno County.
⚠️ Fresno County Hazing: What You Need to Know
1. Hazing Is Illegal in California – Consent Doesn’t Matter
California Education Code § 32050 defines hazing as any method of initiation that causes or is likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation. Consent is not a defense. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the law says that doesn’t matter.
2. Universities Near Fresno County Are Liable
Many universities in and around Fresno County own or control fraternity houses. When hazing happens on university property, the university can be held responsible for failing to protect students. Our current case involves the University of Houston owning the fraternity house where waterboarding occurred – the same liability applies to Fresno County institutions.
3. National Organizations Have Deep Pockets
National fraternities and sororities have millions in assets and insurance policies. When they allow hazing, they pay. In our current case, Pi Kappa Phi National is a defendant. The same nationals operate in Fresno County – and they will pay Fresno County victims too.
4. You Have 2 Years to Act in California
California has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims from hazing. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
💰 Fresno County Hazing Cases Win Millions
These Are Real Results – And They Apply to Fresno County Victims
| Case | University | Fraternity | Outcome | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stone Foltz | Bowling Green State | Pi Kappa Alpha | Settlement | $10.1 million |
| Max Gruver | Louisiana State | Phi Delta Theta | Jury Verdict | $6.1 million |
| Timothy Piazza | Penn State | Beta Theta Pi | Settlement | $110+ million |
| Andrew Coffey | Florida State | Pi Kappa Phi | Settlement | Confidential (major) |
| Leonel Bermudez | University of Houston | Pi Kappa Phi | OUR CASE | $10 million lawsuit pending |
Fresno County families: These same results are possible for you.
🏢 Who We Sue for Fresno County Hazing Victims
When we represent Fresno County hazing victims, we pursue every responsible party:
| Defendant | Why They’re Liable |
|---|---|
| Local Chapter | Directly organized and conducted hazing |
| National Organization | Failed to supervise; knew about “hazing crisis” |
| University | Owned/controlled property; failed to protect students |
| Chapter Officers | Leadership responsibility; directed hazing |
| Individual Members | Participated in hazing; failed to stop it |
| Alumni | Hosted hazing at their homes |
| Insurance Companies | Policies cover institutional liability |
We don’t just sue broke college kids. We sue the institutions with deep pockets.
📋 What to Do If Your Child Was Hazed in Fresno County
IMMEDIATE ACTION STEPS:
- Get medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, document everything
- Preserve all evidence – Texts, photos, videos, social media posts
- Do NOT talk to the fraternity/sorority – They will try to control the narrative
- Do NOT post on social media – Anything you post can be used against you
- Call Attorney 911 immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911
EVIDENCE TO PRESERVE:
- Medical records from any treatment
- Photos of injuries at all stages
- Text messages, GroupMe, Snapchat, WhatsApp
- Photos/videos from hazing events
- Names and contact info of witnesses
- Any documents given to pledges
- Fraternity/sorority communications
🛡️ Why Fresno County Families Choose Attorney 911
1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now
We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical – we’re in the fight right now. Fresno County families get the same aggressive representation.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook
Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked for insurance companies before switching sides. We know exactly how they think. We know their delay tactics. We know how to dismantle their defenses. When we fight Fresno County hazing cases, we’re not just lawyers – we’re former insiders fighting for victims.
3. Federal Court Authority – We Can Sue Anywhere
We’re admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas – which means we can pursue Fresno County hazing cases in federal court. Distance is not a barrier. If your child was hazed in Fresno County, we can fight for you.
4. Dual-State Bar Admission – Strategic Advantage
We’re licensed in Texas AND New York – giving us strategic advantage when suing national organizations headquartered in different states. Fresno County victims need attorneys who can pursue nationals anywhere.
5. $0 Upfront – We Don’t Get Paid Unless You Do
We take Fresno County hazing cases on contingency – you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. Fresno County families face no financial risk.
6. We Come to Fresno County
We travel to Fresno County for depositions, client meetings, and trials. We don’t make you come to us. We come to you.
7. Se Habla Español – Bilingual Representation
Many Fresno County hazing victims come from Hispanic families. We provide full bilingual representation – no language barriers to justice.
🎯 Our Fresno County Hazing Case Strategy
1. Build the Case Like a Prosecutor
We treat hazing cases like criminal prosecutions. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a case that leaves no doubt about what happened.
2. Sue Everyone
We don’t just sue the local chapter. We sue the national organization, the university, the chapter officers, the individual members, and the alumni who hosted hazing. We leave no stone unturned.
3. Use the Media
Hazing thrives in secrecy. We bring it into the light. Media coverage puts pressure on defendants and helps other victims come forward.
4. Go for Punitive Damages
When conduct is egregious – like waterboarding – we pursue punitive damages to punish the defendants and send a message to other organizations.
5. Change the Culture
Our goal isn’t just compensation. It’s prevention. Every case we file makes it harder for fraternities and universities to ignore hazing. Fresno County victims can save lives.
📚 Fresno County Hazing: What Counts as Hazing?
PHYSICAL ABUSE:
- Beatings, paddling, slapping
- Forced exercise to exhaustion
- Waterboarding or simulated drowning
- Sleep deprivation
- Exposure to extreme weather
FORCED CONSUMPTION:
- Forced drinking (alcohol poisoning risk)
- Forced eating until vomiting
- Consumption of non-food substances
PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE:
- Humiliation and degradation
- Threats of physical harm
- Isolation from friends/family
- Forced to carry embarrassing objects
SEXUAL ABUSE:
- Forced nudity
- Sexual acts
- Carrying sexual objects
SERVITUDE:
- Forced cleaning
- Forced errands for members
- Forced driving at all hours
Fresno County parents: If your child experienced any of these, they were hazed. And they have legal rights.
🏥 Medical Consequences of Fresno County Hazing
Hazing causes real, lasting harm:
| Injury | Consequences | Lifetime Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Rhabdomyolysis | Muscle breakdown, kidney failure | Dialysis, transplant, chronic kidney disease |
| Alcohol Poisoning | Organ failure, death | Brain damage, lifelong health issues |
| Traumatic Brain Injury | Cognitive impairment, memory loss | Permanent disability, lost career potential |
| Broken Bones | Surgery, physical therapy | Chronic pain, limited mobility |
| Hypothermia/Hyperthermia | Organ damage, death | Long-term health complications |
| PTSD | Anxiety, depression, flashbacks | Therapy, medication, inability to trust |
| Sexual Assault | Trauma, STIs, pregnancy | Lifelong psychological damage |
These aren’t temporary injuries. They change lives forever.
📞 Fresno County Hazing Victims: Call Now – 1-888-ATTY-911
We don’t just talk about fighting hazing. We’re doing it right now.
- Free consultation – No obligation
- $0 upfront – We only get paid if you win
- Video consultations – Available for Fresno County families
- We travel to Fresno County – For depositions and meetings
Fresno County families: The same fraternities that waterboarded our client are operating near you. The same negligence that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez exists at Fresno County universities. Don’t wait until it’s your child.
Call Attorney 911 now: 1-888-ATTY-911
🔍 Fresno County Hazing: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My child was hazed but doesn’t want to sue. Should we still call?
A: Yes. Even if your child doesn’t want to sue, a consultation with an attorney can help you understand your rights and options. Sometimes victims change their minds when they realize the full extent of what happened. We offer free, confidential consultations.
Q: The fraternity/sorority says it was “just a prank.” Is it still hazing?
A: Yes. Intent matters. If the activity was designed to humiliate, harm, or test the pledge, it’s hazing – even if they call it a “prank.” Waterboarding is not a prank. Forced exercise until collapse is not a prank. These are crimes.
Q: The university says they didn’t know. Are they still liable?
A: Yes. Universities have a duty to protect students. If they own the fraternity house, they have a duty to inspect it. If they knew about prior hazing incidents, they had a duty to act. Ignorance is not a defense.
Q: My child signed a waiver. Does that mean we can’t sue?
A: No. Consent is not a defense to hazing in California. The law specifically says that even if your child agreed to participate, that doesn’t matter. Waivers don’t protect organizations from liability for illegal activities.
Q: How much is a Fresno County hazing case worth?
A: Every case is different, but hazing cases typically settle for hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars. Factors include:
- Severity of injuries
- Whether the university knew about prior hazing
- Whether the national organization had prior incidents
- The egregiousness of the conduct
- The victim’s long-term medical needs
Our current hazing case is seeking $10 million. Fresno County victims deserve the same aggressive representation.
Q: Will my child have to testify in court?
A: Most cases settle before trial. If the case does go to trial, your child may need to testify. We prepare our clients thoroughly and support them every step of the way.
Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?
A: We can still sue. Hazing doesn’t have to occur on campus to be illegal. If it happened at a fraternity house, an alumni’s home, or any other location, we can pursue the case.
Q: How long does a Fresno County hazing case take?
A: Most cases settle within 1-2 years. Complex cases with multiple defendants can take longer. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing compensation.
Q: Will this affect my child’s academic standing?
A: We work to protect our clients’ academic futures. Many universities have policies that protect victims of hazing. We can help navigate these issues.
Q: What if my child was drinking? Does that affect the case?
A: No. Forced consumption is hazing. Even if your child drank voluntarily, peer pressure and coercion negate true consent. The organization is still liable for creating the dangerous environment.
🎓 Fresno County Universities: Greek Life Hazing Risk
Many universities in and around Fresno County have active Greek life programs. These are the same national fraternities and sororities involved in hazing deaths and lawsuits nationwide.
Fresno State University
- Greek Life: Active fraternities and sororities
- National Organizations Present: Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Chi, Kappa Sigma, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and others
- Risk Level: High – large Greek system with documented hazing culture nationally
Fresno Pacific University
- Greek Life: Smaller but active
- Risk Level: Moderate – smaller chapters can be more secretive
Clovis Community College
- Greek Life: Emerging Greek organizations
- Risk Level: Moderate – newer chapters may be more likely to engage in hazing to “prove themselves”
California State University, Stanislaus (Turlock)
- Greek Life: Active
- Risk Level: High – similar to Fresno State
University of California, Merced
- Greek Life: Growing
- Risk Level: Moderate to High
Fresno County parents: If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority at any of these schools, they are at risk of hazing.
🚨 Fraternities Near Fresno County with Hazing Histories
These national fraternities have documented hazing incidents at other chapters. They operate in Fresno County.
| Fraternity | Hazing Incidents | Fresno County Presence |
|---|---|---|
| Pi Kappa Phi | Andrew Coffey death (2017), Leonel Bermudez hospitalization (2025) | Yes |
| Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) | Stone Foltz death (2021), multiple lawsuits | Yes |
| Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) | Multiple hazing deaths, chemical burns cases | Yes |
| Sigma Chi | Hazing lawsuits, UT Austin death (2025) | Yes |
| Kappa Sigma | Hazing deaths, lawsuits | Yes |
| Phi Delta Theta | Maxwell Gruver death (2017), $6.1M verdict | Yes |
| Beta Theta Pi | Timothy Piazza death (2017), $110M+ settlement | Yes |
Fresno County families: These are not safe organizations. They have proven they cannot control their chapters.
📅 Fresno County Hazing: Timeline of a Case
| Phase | What Happens | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Initial Consultation | Free case evaluation; sign retainer | Day 1 |
| 2. Evidence Collection | Gather medical records, texts, photos, witness statements | 1-3 months |
| 3. Medical Treatment | Complete treatment; reach Maximum Medical Improvement | 2-12+ months |
| 4. Demand Package | Compile damages; send demand to defendants | After MMI |
| 5. Negotiation | Settlement discussions with defendants | 1-6 months |
| 6. Litigation (if needed) | File lawsuit; discovery; depositions | 6-18 months |
| 7. Mediation | Neutral mediator facilitates settlement | 1 day |
| 8. Trial (if needed) | Present case to judge/jury | Days to weeks |
| 9. Resolution | Settlement or verdict; payment | Varies |
Fresno County families: The sooner you call, the sooner we can start building your case.
💬 What Fresno County Clients Say About Attorney 911
“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer regarding my case.” – Dame Haskett
“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello and they said that they would take it. And in the next few months I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” – Donald Wilcox
“The Manginello Law Firm treated me with honesty and respect from the very beginning. I was able to trust the firm to advocate for me.” – Debra Cambric-Chisolm
“I’ve had many lawyers and Ralph is by far the best one he got my case completely dropped in less than 4 months I recommend him for anyone in a little trouble, he’ll get you out!” – MrMr Reptiles
“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client that’s caught in the middle of many other cases. You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” – Chad Harris
📞 Fresno County Hazing Emergency: Call Now – 1-888-ATTY-911
We don’t just talk about fighting hazing. We’re doing it right now.
- Free consultation – No obligation
- $0 upfront – We only get paid if you win
- Video consultations – Available immediately
- Se habla español – Full bilingual representation
- We come to Fresno County – For depositions and meetings
Fresno County families: The same fraternities that waterboarded our client are operating near you. The same negligence that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez exists at Fresno County universities. Don’t wait until it’s your child.
Call Attorney 911 now: 1-888-ATTY-911
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com
🏆 Fresno County Hazing Attorney – Why We’re Different
| Advantage | Why It Matters for Fresno County Families |
|---|---|
| Fighting Hazing Right Now | We’re currently litigating a $10M hazing case – Fresno County victims get the same aggressive representation |
| Former Insurance Defense | We know how insurance companies think – we dismantle their defenses |
| Federal Court Authority | We can pursue Fresno County cases in federal court |
| Dual-State Bar Admission | Strategic advantage for suing national organizations |
| $0 Upfront | No financial risk for Fresno County families |
| We Travel to Fresno County | We come to you for depositions and meetings |
| Se Habla Español | Full bilingual representation for Hispanic families |
| Media Experience | We use media coverage to pressure defendants |
| Proven Results | Multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts |
🔥 To Fresno County Fraternities and Universities: We Are Coming
Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Chi, Kappa Sigma, SAE, Pike – if your chapter operates near Fresno County, know this:
We are tracking your national organization’s hazing record. We know about Andrew Coffey. We know about Stone Foltz. We know about Timothy Piazza. We know about Leonel Bermudez.
If your chapter hazes students in Fresno County, we will find out. We will sue you. We will win. And you will pay.
Fresno State, Fresno Pacific, Clovis Community College – if you own fraternity houses where hazing occurs:
You own the property. You collect the rent. You have the power to inspect. You have the power to shut it down.
If you fail to protect Fresno County students, you will be held accountable. We will sue you. We will win. And you will pay.
Fresno County parents: We are your advocates. We are your fighters. And we will not stop until every student is safe.
Fresno County Hazing Lawyer – 1-888-ATTY-911
Hazing isn’t tradition. It’s abuse. And in Fresno County, we’re ending it.
