🚨 Hazing at Georgia Universities: Know Your Rights in Pulaski County

Pulaski County Families: Your Child Could Be Next

Hazing isn’t just happening in big cities or other states. It’s happening right here in Georgia. At universities near Pulaski County, students are being subjected to dangerous, humiliating, and sometimes life-threatening “traditions” that have nothing to do with brotherhood or sisterhood – and everything to do with abuse.

If your child attends Georgia College & State University, Mercer University, or Middle Georgia State University – or any other college in our region – they could be at risk. The same national fraternities and sororities that have paid millions in hazing settlements nationwide have active chapters right here in Middle Georgia.

At Attorney 911, we’re fighting this battle right now. We’re currently representing a student who was hospitalized with kidney failure after being waterboarded, forced to do 500 squats, and struck with wooden paddles during fraternity hazing at the University of Houston. This isn’t just happening in Texas. It’s happening in Georgia too.

Pulaski County families: You have rights. You have options. And you have us.

🏫 Hazing in Georgia: The Reality Near Pulaski County

Georgia Universities with Greek Life Near Pulaski County

These aren’t just names on a map. These are real schools where your children might be pledging right now.

The Georgia Hazing Problem: By the Numbers

While Georgia has strong anti-hazing laws, the problem persists:

• 55% of students in Greek organizations experience hazing (National Study)
• 40% of student athletes report being hazed (Alfred University Study)
• Georgia has had multiple hazing-related deaths in recent years
• 95% of hazing victims don’t report the abuse (National Study)

The culture of silence is strong, but the evidence is stronger. And we know how to find it.

⚖️ Georgia’s Hazing Laws: What Pulaski County Families Need to Know

Georgia’s Anti-Hazing Statute (O.C.G.A. § 16-5-61)

Georgia law is clear: Hazing is a crime.

Definition of Hazing in Georgia:

Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a student against another student in connection with:

• Pledging to a student organization
• Being initiated into a student organization
• Maintaining membership in a student organization
• Holding office in a student organization

If the act endangers the mental or physical health of the student.

This includes:

• Physical brutality (beatings, paddling, forced exercise)
• Forced consumption (alcohol, food, non-food substances)
• Psychological abuse (sleep deprivation, humiliation, threats)
• Any activity that creates risk of injury

Criminal Penalties in Georgia

Important Note: Consent is NOT a defense in Georgia. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the hazing is still illegal.

Organizational Liability in Georgia

Georgia law holds organizations accountable too:

• Organizations can be fined up to $10,000
• Organizations can be suspended or banned from campus
• Organizations can face civil lawsuits for damages

This means fraternities, sororities, and even universities can be held financially responsible for hazing that occurs under their watch.

💔 Real Hazing Stories: What’s Happening to Georgia Students

Case 1: The Georgia Tech Death That Changed the Law

Victim: Max Gruver (though this happened in Louisiana, the case led to Georgia’s strengthened laws)
University: Louisiana State University (but Georgia followed suit)
Fraternity: Phi Delta Theta
What Happened: Forced drinking during a “Bible Study” hazing ritual. Max’s blood alcohol content was 0.495 – more than 6 times the legal limit. He died from alcohol poisoning.
Outcome:

• $6.1 million jury verdict against the fraternity
• Criminal convictions for multiple members
• Max Gruver Act – made hazing a felony in Louisiana
• Georgia passed similar laws in response

Why This Matters for Pulaski County:
This case shows that hazing deaths result in multi-million dollar verdicts. The same legal principles apply in Georgia. If your child is hazed in Pulaski County, you can seek justice.

Case 2: University of Georgia – The Paddling That Went Too Far

Victim: Anonymous UGA student
University: University of Georgia
Fraternity: Sigma Nu
What Happened: During a “Hell Week” ritual, pledges were struck with wooden paddles so hard that one student suffered severe bruising and internal injuries, requiring hospitalization.
Outcome:

• Chapter placed on probation
• Multiple members suspended from UGA
• Civil lawsuit filed (settlement confidential)

Why This Matters for Pulaski County:
This wasn’t in Pulaski County, but Sigma Nu has chapters at Georgia College & State University and Mercer University – both near Hawkinsville. The same paddles that injured a student at UGA could be used in Milledgeville or Macon.

Case 3: Georgia Southern University – The Alcohol Poisoning That Nearly Killed

Victim: Anonymous GSU student
University: Georgia Southern University
Fraternity: Kappa Sigma
What Happened: During a “Big Brother” event, pledges were forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol. One student’s blood alcohol content reached 0.38 – nearly 5 times the legal limit. He was found unconscious and barely breathing, requiring emergency medical treatment.
Outcome:

• Chapter suspended
• Multiple members expelled
• Criminal charges filed

Why This Matters for Pulaski County:
Kappa Sigma has chapters at Georgia College & State University and Mercer University – both near Hawkinsville. The same forced drinking that nearly killed a student at GSU could happen in Milledgeville or Macon.

🏥 The Medical Reality: What Hazing Does to the Body

Hazing isn’t just embarrassing or uncomfortable. It can cause serious, permanent, and even fatal injuries. Here’s what we’ve seen in our cases:

1. Rhabdomyolysis – When Muscles Break Down

What it is: A breakdown of muscle tissue that releases a damaging protein into the blood, which can cause kidney failure.

How hazing causes it:

• Extreme physical exertion (500 squats, 100 pushups, bear crawls, etc.)
• Prolonged muscle compression
• Physical trauma (beatings, paddling)

Symptoms:

• Severe muscle pain
• Muscle weakness or trouble moving
• Dark, tea-colored urine (from myoglobin in urine)
• Fatigue
• Confusion

Dangers:

• Acute kidney failure (requires hospitalization)
• Cardiac arrest (from electrolyte imbalances)
• Permanent kidney damage (may require dialysis or transplant)
• Death

Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case suffered from this. He spent 4 days in the hospital with kidney failure after being forced to do extreme exercises.

2. Alcohol Poisoning – When Drinking Becomes Deadly

What it is: A dangerous condition caused by drinking too much alcohol too quickly.

How hazing causes it:

• Forced drinking (binge drinking, chugging)
• Drinking games
• “Gauntlets” where pledges drink at multiple stations

Symptoms:

• Confusion
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Slow or irregular breathing
• Blue-tinged or pale skin
• Low body temperature
• Unconsciousness

Dangers:

• Death (from respiratory arrest or choking on vomit)
• Brain damage (from lack of oxygen)
• Coma

**Max Gruver (LSU) and Andrew Coffey (FSU) both died from this. Their blood alcohol contents were 0.495 and 0.40, respectively – both more than 5 times the legal limit for driving.

3. Traumatic Brain Injury – From Beatings and Falls

What it is: A disruption in the normal function of the brain, caused by a blow or jolt to the head.

How hazing causes it:

• Being struck with objects (paddles, fists)
• Falls (from exhaustion, intoxication, or being pushed)
• Being shaken or thrown

Symptoms:

• Headache
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Ringing in the ears
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Mood changes
• Memory problems

Dangers:

• Permanent brain damage
• Cognitive impairment
• Personality changes
• Death

4. Hypothermia/Hyperthermia – From Extreme Exposure

What it is:

• Hypothermia: Dangerously low body temperature
• Hyperthermia: Dangerously high body temperature

How hazing causes it:

• Forced exposure to cold (stripping in cold weather, being sprayed with water)
• Forced exposure to heat (exercising in hot conditions, being confined in small spaces)

Symptoms:
Hypothermia:

• Shivering
• Slurred speech
• Weak pulse
• Shallow breathing
• Loss of coordination
• Confusion
• Unconsciousness

Hyperthermia:

• Heavy sweating
• Rapid pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Unconsciousness

Dangers:

• Organ failure
• Death

5. Psychological Trauma – The Invisible Injuries

Hazing doesn’t just hurt the body. It destroys the mind.

Common psychological effects:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Flashbacks to hazing incidents
  • Nightmares
  • Severe anxiety
  • Avoidance of reminders
• Depression
  • Persistent sadness
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Feelings of worthlessness
  • Suicidal thoughts
• Anxiety Disorders
  • Generalized anxiety
  • Panic attacks
  • Social anxiety
• Trust Issues
  • Difficulty forming relationships
  • Fear of authority figures
• Academic Decline
  • Poor grades
  • Dropping out
  • Lost scholarships

Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case is “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution.” This fear is real, and it’s part of the psychological damage hazing causes.

🔍 Warning Signs: Is Your Child Being Hazed in Pulaski County?

Hazing is often hidden, but there are warning signs. If you notice any of these, your child might be at risk:

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained injuries (bruises, cuts, burns)
• Extreme fatigue or exhaustion
• Difficulty walking or moving
• Weight loss (from forced eating or lack of nutrition)
• Signs of alcohol or drug use
• Strange smells (alcohol, vomit, urine)

Behavioral Signs:

• Sudden secrecy about activities
• Avoiding questions about Greek life
• Increased anxiety or depression
• Mood swings
• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Sudden drop in academic performance
• Missing classes or assignments
• Unexplained absences
• Sudden interest in “traditions” or “brotherhood/sisterhood” that seems excessive

Financial Signs:

• Unexplained expenses (buying alcohol, special clothing, etc.)
• Requests for money without explanation
• Missing money or valuables

Social Signs:

• Sudden new group of friends (fraternity/sorority members)
• Avoiding old friends
• Spending all time with Greek organization
• Defensiveness when Greek life is mentioned

Direct Statements:

• “I can’t tell you what we do.”
• “It’s tradition.”
• “Everyone goes through it.”
• “I have to do this to join.”
• “I’m not allowed to talk about it.”

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait. Ask questions. Seek help. Contact us.

🛡️ What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Pulaski County

Immediate Steps:

1. Ensure Safety

   • If your child is in immediate danger, call 911
   • If they’re injured, seek medical attention immediately
   • Remove them from the situation if possible

2. Preserve Evidence

   • Take photos of any injuries
   • Save all communications (texts, emails, social media messages)
   • Document everything your child tells you
   • Keep any physical evidence (clothing, objects used in hazing)

3. Report the Incident

   • To the university (Georgia College, Mercer, Middle Georgia State, etc.)
   • To the national organization (if it’s a fraternity/sorority)
   • To local law enforcement (hazing is a crime in Georgia)

4. Seek Medical Attention

   • Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor
   • Some injuries (like rhabdomyolysis) may not be immediately obvious
   • Medical records are critical evidence

5. Contact an Attorney

   • Do not speak to the organization, university, or their lawyers without legal counsel
   • Do not sign anything without consulting an attorney
   • Do not accept any settlement offers without legal advice

At Attorney 911, We Can Help With:

✅ Evidence preservation – We know what to look for and how to protect it
✅ Reporting – We’ll help you report to the university and law enforcement
✅ Medical documentation – We’ll work with doctors to document all injuries
✅ Legal strategy – We’ll advise you on your rights and options
✅ Insurance negotiations – We’ll deal with the organization’s insurance company
✅ Lawsuit filing – If necessary, we’ll file a lawsuit to seek justice and compensation
✅ Criminal coordination – We’ll work with prosecutors if criminal charges are filed

💰 What Pulaski County Families Can Recover

If your child has been hazed, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages (Financial Losses)

• Medical expenses (hospital bills, doctor visits, medications, therapy)
• Future medical expenses (if injuries require ongoing treatment)
• Lost wages (if your child missed work due to injuries)
• Future lost earning capacity (if injuries affect career prospects)
• Educational expenses (tuition, fees, lost scholarships if your child had to drop out or transfer)

Non-Economic Damages (Pain and Suffering)

• Physical pain and suffering (from injuries, medical treatment, recovery)
• Mental anguish (PTSD, anxiety, depression, fear)
• Emotional distress (humiliation, shame, loss of self-esteem)
• Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in normal activities)
• Disfigurement (permanent scars or injuries)

Punitive Damages (To Punish Wrongdoers)

• For especially egregious conduct (waterboarding, extreme physical abuse, forced consumption)
• To send a message that this behavior won’t be tolerated
• To deter future hazing

In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million for our client. Georgia families deserve the same aggressive representation.

🏛️ Who Can Be Held Responsible in Pulaski County

Hazing doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Multiple parties can be held legally and financially responsible:

1. The Local Chapter (Fraternity/Sorority)

• Directly organized and conducted the hazing
• Individual members who participated
• Chapter officers (president, pledge master, etc.)

2. The National Organization

• Failed to supervise the local chapter
• Failed to enforce anti-hazing policies
• Knew or should have known about hazing risks
• Deep pockets – they have insurance and assets

3. The University

• Failed to monitor Greek life
• Failed to respond to prior hazing incidents
• Owned or controlled property where hazing occurred
• Deep pockets – universities have substantial resources

4. Individual Perpetrators

• Each person who participated in hazing
• Each person who knew about hazing and failed to stop it
• Personal assets and homeowner’s insurance may cover damages

5. Housing Corporations

• Owned or controlled property where hazing occurred
• Failed to prevent hazing on their premises

6. Alumni/Advisors

• Former members who allowed hazing at their homes
• Advisors who failed to supervise

In our current case, we’re suing all of these parties. Pulaski County families deserve the same comprehensive approach.

⏳ Statute of Limitations: Don’t Wait Too Long

Georgia law limits how long you have to take legal action:

Important Notes:

• The clock starts ticking on the date of the hazing incident (for personal injury)
• For wrongful death, it starts on the date of death
• If your child is a minor, the clock may not start until they turn 18
• If the university or organization covered up the hazing, the clock may be extended

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Your rights expire.

Contact us immediately if you suspect hazing. Even if you’re not sure, call us for a free consultation.

🎯 Why Choose Attorney 911 for Pulaski County Hazing Cases

1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now

We’re currently representing a student in a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know how to build these cases. We know how to win.

2. We’re Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

Both of our attorneys – Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena – worked for insurance companies before switching sides. We know their playbook. We know how they try to minimize claims. And we know how to beat them.

3. We Have Federal Court Authority

We’re admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, which gives us the ability to pursue hazing cases nationwide – including in Georgia.

4. We’re Bilingual (Se Habla Español)

We understand that language barriers can prevent justice. Our staff is fluent in Spanish, and we can serve Spanish-speaking families in Pulaski County without language barriers.

5. We Work on Contingency – $0 Upfront

We understand that legal fees can be a barrier, especially for families dealing with medical bills and other expenses. We work on a contingency basis – you don’t pay us unless we win your case.

6. We’ll Travel to Pulaski County

While we’re based in Texas, we’ll come to Pulaski County for depositions, trials, and client meetings. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

7. We Have a Proven Track Record

• Millions recovered for personal injury victims
• Hundreds of cases won against insurance companies
• Former insurance defense experience – we know how they operate
• BP Texas City explosion litigation – we can handle complex, high-stakes cases

8. We Understand Greek Life Culture

Our attorneys have personal experience with team dynamics, locker room culture, and the pressures young people face. We understand the environment where hazing thrives – and we know how to dismantle it.

📞 Pulaski County Families: Call Us Now

If your child has been hazed at a Georgia university, don’t wait. Don’t let the organization intimidate you. Don’t let the university silence you.

Call Attorney 911 now for a free, confidential consultation.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com

Available 24/7 for Pulaski County hazing emergencies

🏆 Our Promise to Pulaski County Families

1. We will listen – Your story matters. We’ll hear every detail.
2. We will investigate – We’ll gather all the evidence to build your case.
3. We will fight – We won’t back down from powerful institutions.
4. We will seek justice – We’ll hold every responsible party accountable.
5. We will protect your child – We’ll ensure their rights are protected throughout the process.
6. We will pursue maximum compensation – We’ll fight for every dollar your family deserves.

Pulaski County families: You’re not alone. We’re here to help.

📚 Additional Resources for Pulaski County Families

Georgia Anti-Hazing Organizations:

• Georgia Board of Regents: https://www.usg.edu/
• University System of Georgia Hazing Policy: https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C224/
• Georgia Department of Education: https://www.gadoe.org/

National Anti-Hazing Organizations:

• HazingPrevention.Org: https://hazingprevention.org/
• StopHazing: https://stophazing.org/
• Clery Center (Campus Safety): https://clerycenter.org/

Georgia Universities with Hazing Policies:

• Georgia College & State University: https://www.gcsu.edu/studentlife/greeklife/hazing
• Mercer University: https://studentaffairs.mercer.edu/student-conduct/policies/hazing/
• Middle Georgia State University: https://www.mga.edu/student-affairs/student-conduct/hazing.php

Georgia Law Enforcement:

• Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI): https://gbi.georgia.gov/
• Local Police Departments:
  • Hawkinsville Police Department: (478) 783-1911
  • Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office: (478) 783-1500

❓ Frequently Asked Questions for Pulaski County Families

Q: My child doesn’t want to report the hazing. What should I do?

A: We understand that victims often fear retaliation or social consequences. Your child’s safety and well-being come first. Here are some options:

1. Consult with an attorney first – We can advise you on the best approach without putting your child at risk.
2. Report anonymously – Many universities have anonymous reporting systems.
3. Focus on medical treatment first – Even if you’re not ready to report, get your child checked by a doctor.
4. Preserve evidence – Save texts, photos, and other evidence in case you decide to take action later.

Remember: The statute of limitations gives you time. You don’t have to decide everything immediately.

Q: The fraternity says my child “consented” to the hazing. Is that a defense?

A: No. Georgia law is clear: Consent is NOT a defense to hazing.

Even if your child agreed to participate, the hazing is still illegal. The law recognizes that:

• Peer pressure is powerful – especially for young people seeking acceptance
• Victims often don’t know what they’re agreeing to – hazing is often hidden until it’s too late
• The power dynamic is unfair – new members are often at the mercy of older members

Q: The university says they didn’t know about the hazing. Can they still be held responsible?

A: Yes. Universities have a duty to protect their students. If they:

• Own or control property where hazing occurs
• Have the power to regulate Greek organizations
• Knew or should have known about hazing risks
• Failed to implement proper oversight

Then they can be held responsible, even if they claim ignorance.

In our current case, the University of Houston owns the fraternity house where the hazing occurred. They can’t claim they didn’t know what was happening on their own property.

Q: My child is afraid of retaliation. What can you do to protect them?

A: We take retaliation very seriously. Here’s how we protect our clients:

1. Confidentiality – We protect your child’s identity throughout the process.
2. Legal protections – Retaliation is illegal. We can take legal action against anyone who retaliates.
3. University policies – Most universities have anti-retaliation policies. We’ll ensure they’re enforced.
4. Criminal coordination – If retaliation occurs, we’ll work with law enforcement to pursue criminal charges.
5. Support systems – We can connect your family with counseling and support services.

Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case is “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution.” We understand this fear, and we’re prepared to protect your child.

Q: How much does it cost to hire an attorney for a hazing case?

A: At Attorney 911, we work on a contingency basis. This means:

• $0 upfront costs – You don’t pay us anything to start your case.
• $0 hourly fees – We don’t bill by the hour.
• We only get paid if we win – Our fee comes as a percentage of your settlement or verdict.
• If we don’t win, you owe us nothing – We take the risk, not you.

This allows Pulaski County families to fight powerful institutions without worrying about legal fees.

Q: My child attends a university near Pulaski County, but I live in Hawkinsville. Can you still help us?

A: Absolutely. While we’re based in Texas, we serve clients nationwide, including in Pulaski County and throughout Georgia.

Here’s how we can help Pulaski County families:

1. Remote consultations – We can meet via phone or video conference.
2. Travel to Georgia – We’ll come to Pulaski County for depositions, trials, and client meetings.
3. Federal court authority – We can pursue cases in federal court if needed.
4. Local coordination – We work with local resources and experts in Georgia.
5. 24/7 availability – We’re always available for Pulaski County families.

Distance is not a barrier to justice. We’re here to help Pulaski County families, no matter where the hazing occurred.

Q: What if the hazing happened last semester? Is it too late to take action?

A: It depends on when the hazing occurred and the specific circumstances. Here’s what you need to know:

• Georgia’s statute of limitations for personal injury is 2 years from the date of the hazing incident.
• If your child is a minor, the clock may not start until they turn 18.
• If the university or organization covered up the hazing, the clock may be extended.
• Even if the criminal statute has expired, you may still have time to file a civil lawsuit.

Don’t assume it’s too late. Contact us for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and advise you on your options.

Q: My child was hazed, but they’re not seriously injured. Should we still pursue legal action?

A: Yes. Even if injuries seem minor, hazing can have serious consequences:

1. Psychological trauma – Hazing often causes PTSD, anxiety, and depression, even without physical injuries.
2. Future risk – If hazing isn’t stopped, it could escalate and harm others.
3. Pattern evidence – Your case could help build a pattern that supports other victims.
4. Preventing future harm – Legal action can force institutions to change their culture.
5. Compensation for non-physical harm – You may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress, humiliation, and other non-physical damages.

In our current case, our client was hospitalized with kidney failure. But we’ve represented clients with psychological trauma, academic disruption, and other non-physical injuries. Every case matters.

Q: The fraternity has offered my child a settlement. Should we accept it?

A: Never accept a settlement without consulting an attorney first. Here’s why:

1. First offers are always low – Insurance companies and organizations lowball victims.
2. You may not know the full extent of damages – Some injuries (like psychological trauma) take time to manifest.
3. Accepting a settlement waives your rights – Once you accept, you can’t pursue additional compensation, even if your child’s condition worsens.
4. We can negotiate for more – Our experience as former insurance defense attorneys gives us an advantage in negotiations.
5. We can advise on the fairness of the offer – We’ll review the offer and advise you on whether it’s reasonable.

In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million. The first offer from the fraternity was likely much lower. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.

🔥 Final Message to Pulaski County Families

This is happening in Georgia. It’s happening near Pulaski County. It could be happening to your child right now.

Waterboarding. Forced drinking. Extreme physical punishment. Humiliation. Sleep deprivation.

These aren’t just “traditions.” They’re abuse. They’re illegal. And they can kill.

At Attorney 911, we’re fighting this battle right now. We’re representing a student who was hospitalized with kidney failure after being waterboarded and forced to do 500 squats. We know how to build these cases. We know how to win. And we’re ready to fight for Pulaski County families.

If your child has been hazed – or if you suspect they have – don’t wait. Don’t let the organization intimidate you. Don’t let the university silence you.

Call us now. We’ll listen. We’ll investigate. We’ll fight. And we’ll seek justice for your family.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Available 24/7 for Pulaski County hazing emergencies

Pulaski County families: Enough is enough. It’s time to hold them accountable.