🚨 Hazing Lawyers for Hancock County Families — Justice for Hazing Victims

Hancock County Parents: Your Child Deserves Protection

Hazing doesn’t stop at state lines. The same fraternities that waterboarded a student at University of Houston have chapters at universities near Hancock County. The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client with kidney failure exist right here in Indiana. And the same negligence that allowed this to happen at UH exists at institutions across America — including those your Hancock County children attend.

At Attorney 911, we’re fighting this battle RIGHT NOW. We’re currently representing a hazing victim in a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical — it’s happening. And we’re bringing the same aggressive representation to Hancock County families.

🔥 The Hazing Crisis in Hancock County and Beyond

This Happened in Houston. It’s Happening in Hancock County.

On November 3, 2025, Leonel Bermudez — a prospective Pi Kappa Phi pledge not even enrolled at University of Houston yet — was hospitalized with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after weeks of systematic hazing. He was:

• Waterboarded with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
• Forced to do 500 squats and 100+ pushups until he couldn’t stand
• Struck with wooden paddles
• Forced to eat until he vomited, then made to continue exercising
• Humiliated with sexual objects and stripped in cold weather
• Deprived of sleep by being forced to drive fraternity members at all hours

He spent four days in the hospital fighting for his life. And here’s the outrage: This wasn’t the first time.

Eight years earlier, Andrew Coffey died at a Pi Kappa Phi event at Florida State University. Eight years before that, a student at University of Houston was hospitalized with a lacerated spleen from hazing at another fraternity.

The institutions knew. They had years to fix it. They did nothing.

And now, the same fraternities operate at universities near Hancock County. The same culture of abuse exists. The same negligence persists. Your Hancock County child could be next.

⚖️ Hancock County Families Have Legal Rights

Hazing is Illegal in Indiana

Indiana has strict anti-hazing laws that make it a criminal offense to engage in, encourage, or fail to report hazing. Under Indiana Code § 35-42-2-2, hazing is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. If hazing results in serious bodily injury, it becomes a Level 6 felony, punishable by 6 months to 2.5 years in prison.

But criminal charges aren’t enough. Hancock County families also have the right to civil compensation for the physical and emotional harm caused by hazing. This means you can sue for:

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Pain and suffering (physical and emotional)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Punitive damages (to punish egregious conduct)
• Educational disruption costs

And here’s the critical point: CONSENT IS NOT A DEFENSE. Even if your Hancock County child “agreed” to participate, Indiana law explicitly states that consent does not justify hazing. The law is on your side.

💰 Multi-Million Dollar Precedents — Hancock County Cases Can Win Big

Hazing cases don’t just win — they win BIG. Juries and courts across America have awarded millions to hazing victims and their families. These aren’t just numbers on paper — they’re real verdicts that show what’s possible for Hancock County families.

Recent Hazing Verdicts and Settlements:

Our current case against Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston seeks $10 million. This demand is directly in line with these precedents, and Hancock County families deserve the same level of compensation.

🏛️ Who Can Be Held Liable for Hancock County Hazing?

When hazing happens, everyone involved can be held accountable — not just the individuals who directly participated. In our Houston case, we’re pursuing:

1. The Local Chapter — The fraternity or sorority chapter that organized and conducted the hazing
2. National Organization — The national fraternity/sorority that failed to supervise and enforce anti-hazing policies
3. University/College — The institution that failed to protect students, especially if they own or control the property where hazing occurred
4. Individual Members — Every person who participated in, encouraged, or failed to stop the hazing
5. Chapter Officers — Leaders like the president, pledgemaster, or risk manager who directed activities
6. Housing Corporations — Entities that own or manage fraternity/sorority property
7. Alumni — Former members who host or facilitate hazing activities

For Hancock County families, this means: If your child was hazed at a Greek organization, sports team, or any student group at a university near Hancock County, we can pursue multiple defendants to maximize your compensation.

📋 What Hancock County Families Should Do If Hazing Occurs

If your child has been hazed — or if you suspect hazing — time is critical. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. And statutes of limitations run out. Here’s what to do:

IMMEDIATE STEPS:

1. Get Medical Attention — Even if injuries seem minor, document everything medically. Some conditions (like rhabdomyolysis) may not show symptoms immediately.
2. Preserve All Evidence — Save every text, social media message, photo, or video related to the hazing. Do not delete anything.
3. Document Everything — Write down what happened, when it happened, who was involved, and how it affected your child.
4. Do NOT Confront the Organization — They will coordinate their story, destroy evidence, and intimidate witnesses. Let your attorney handle all communication.
5. Do NOT Post on Social Media — Anything you post can be used against you. Stay quiet online until your case is resolved.
6. Call Attorney 911 Immediately — 1-888-ATTY-911 — Free consultation available 24/7.

WHY ACT NOW:

• Indiana has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. If you wait, you may lose your right to sue.
• Evidence disappears quickly — texts get deleted, social media posts vanish, memories fade.
• Witnesses become harder to find — students graduate, transfer, or move away.
• The organization will try to silence victims — they’ll pressure your child to stay quiet.

Hancock County families: The sooner you call us, the stronger your case will be.

🛡️ Why Hancock County Families Choose Attorney 911

We’re Not Just Lawyers — We’re Legal Emergency Responders

When a legal emergency hits — whether it’s a hazing incident, a car accident, or a workplace injury — we move FIRST, FAST, and DECISIVELY. For Hancock County hazing victims, this means:

1. Nationwide Experience — Local Service for Hancock County

While we’re based in Texas (Houston, Austin, Beaumont), we serve hazing victims nationwide, including Hancock County. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) allow us to pursue cases anywhere in America.

For Hancock County families, this means:

• You get big-city legal firepower with small-town commitment
• We travel to Hancock County for depositions, trials, and client meetings
• We offer remote consultations so you don’t have to travel
• Distance is not a barrier to justice

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys — We Know Their Playbook

Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked as insurance defense attorneys before switching sides to represent victims. This means we know exactly how insurance companies and institutions think. We know their strategies. We know their tactics. And we know how to dismantle their defenses.

When we take on a hazing case, we’re not just fighting the fraternity — we’re fighting their insurance company, their lawyers, and their risk management team. And because we’ve seen their playbook from the inside, we know how to win.

3. Aggressive Litigation — We Don’t Back Down

We don’t just send demand letters and hope for the best. We build cases for trial. We preserve evidence. We identify all liable parties. And we pursue every possible dollar of compensation.

In our current $10 million hazing case, we’re suing:

• The local chapter
• The national organization
• The university
• The housing corporation
• Multiple individual members
• A former member and his spouse

We leave no stone unturned. And we don’t settle for less than you deserve.

4. Proven Results — Millions Recovered for Victims

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $10 million lawsuit currently pending against Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston
• Multi-million dollar settlements in personal injury cases
• BP Texas City explosion litigation experience (mass tort against major corporation)
• Hundreds of cases won by exposing flawed evidence and insurance company tactics

Hancock County families: We don’t just talk about fighting hazing — we’re doing it right now.

5. Compassionate Representation — We Treat You Like Family

We understand that hazing cases are emotionally devastating for families. Your child trusted an organization that betrayed them. They were humiliated, abused, and possibly hospitalized. And now you’re facing a legal system that feels overwhelming.

We get it. And we’re here for you.

Our staff is bilingual, friendly, and genuinely passionate about helping our clients. We keep you informed at every step. We answer your questions. We fight for you like we’d fight for our own family.

Hancock County families: You’re not just a case to us. You’re a family that deserves justice.

6. No Upfront Costs — You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

We understand that cost can be a barrier to justice. That’s why we take hazing cases on contingency — you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.

Contingency Fee Structure:

• $0 upfront costs — No retainer, no hourly fees
• We cover all case expenses — Medical records, expert witnesses, court fees
• You only pay if we win — Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict
• No hidden fees — You’ll know exactly what to expect

Hancock County families: Financial concerns should never stop you from seeking justice.

🎓 The Reality of Hazing at Hancock County-Area Universities

Hazing Doesn’t Stop at State Lines

The same fraternities and sororities that operate at University of Houston have chapters at universities near Hancock County. The same national organizations that paid millions in hazing settlements are active in Indiana. And the same culture of abuse that hospitalized our client exists right here.

Universities near Hancock County with Greek life include:

• Butler University (Indianapolis, IN)
• Indiana University (Bloomington, IN)
• Purdue University (West Lafayette, IN)
• Ball State University (Muncie, IN)
• Indiana State University (Terre Haute, IN)
• University of Indianapolis (Indianapolis, IN)
• DePauw University (Greencastle, IN)

And the national fraternities involved in major hazing cases have chapters at these schools:

Hancock County families: If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority at a university near Hancock County, they face the same risks that hospitalized our client in Houston.

⚠️ Warning Signs of Hazing for Hancock County Parents

Hazing often starts subtly and escalates. Hancock County parents should watch for these warning signs that your child may be experiencing hazing:

Behavioral Changes:

• Sudden withdrawal from family and friends
• Increased secrecy about their activities
• Avoiding discussions about their organization
• Sudden changes in sleep patterns (sleep deprivation)
• Increased anxiety, depression, or mood swings
• Fear of retribution if they speak up

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries
• Weight loss or changes in appetite
• Fatigue or exhaustion that doesn’t improve
• Signs of alcohol or drug use
• Changes in personal hygiene

Academic Impact:

• Sudden drop in grades
• Missing classes or assignments
• Disinterest in activities they previously enjoyed
• Withdrawal from academic organizations

Financial Signs:

• Unexplained expenses (buying alcohol, paying for events)
• Asking for money without clear explanation
• Missing personal items (clothing, electronics used for hazing activities)

Social Media Clues:

• Posts about “brotherhood” or “sisterhood” that seem forced or scripted
• Photos or videos of large groups in unusual settings
• References to “big/little” relationships or “family”
• Deleted posts or increased privacy settings

Hancock County parents: If you notice these signs, talk to your child. And if you suspect hazing, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

📞 Hancock County Families: Call Now for a Free Consultation

1-888-ATTY-911 — Available 24/7

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

What Happens When You Call:

1. Free Case Evaluation — We’ll listen to your story and evaluate your legal options
2. Immediate Action Plan — We’ll outline the next steps to protect your rights
3. Evidence Preservation — We’ll help you save critical evidence before it disappears
4. No Pressure — You decide whether to move forward; no obligation
5. Confidentiality Guaranteed — Your privacy is protected

We Come to Hancock County

For depositions, client meetings, and trials, our attorneys travel to Hancock County as needed. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

Se Habla Español

We have bilingual staff ready to serve Hancock County’s Spanish-speaking families.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions for Hancock County Families

Q: My child signed a waiver saying they wouldn’t sue. Can we still file a claim?

A: YES. Under Indiana law, consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child signed a waiver or “agreed” to participate, they cannot legally consent to being hazed. The law explicitly eliminates this defense.

Q: The fraternity says this was just “tradition” and not hazing. Is that true?

A: NO. Hazing is defined by Indiana law as any activity that subjects a student to unreasonable risk of harm for the purpose of initiation or affiliation. Waterboarding, forced exercise until collapse, and physical abuse are not tradition — they’re crimes.

Q: We’re worried about retaliation if we speak up. What can you do to protect us?

A: We take retaliation concerns very seriously. We can:

• Send cease-and-desist letters to prevent harassment
• File protective orders if needed
• Pursue additional claims for retaliation
• Keep your identity confidential during early stages
• Work with university Title IX offices to ensure protection

Your safety and peace of mind are our priority.

Q: My child was hazed at a university outside of Hancock County. Can you still help?

A: ABSOLUTELY. We represent hazing victims nationwide. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses allow us to pursue cases anywhere in America. Where the hazing occurred doesn’t matter — what matters is that it happened.

Q: How much is my child’s hazing case worth?

Every case is different, but hazing cases typically result in multi-million dollar settlements or verdicts, especially when:

• The victim was hospitalized or suffered serious injury
• The university or national organization knew about prior hazing incidents
• The hazing involved egregious conduct (waterboarding, forced consumption, physical abuse)
• The victim suffered long-term psychological trauma

In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million. Hancock County families deserve the same level of compensation.

Q: How long will the legal process take?

Hazing cases can take 12-36 months from filing to resolution, depending on:

• The severity of the injuries
• The number of defendants
• Whether the case settles or goes to trial
• The cooperation of the defendants

We work aggressively to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your compensation.

Q: What if my child was partially at fault?

Indiana follows a comparative fault system, which means your child can still recover compensation even if they were partially at fault — as long as they were less than 50% responsible. Our job is to minimize their attributed fault and maximize your recovery.

Q: Can we pursue criminal charges too?

Yes. Hazing is a crime in Indiana, and we can coordinate with local prosecutors to pursue criminal charges against the individuals responsible. Civil and criminal cases can proceed simultaneously.

Q: How much does it cost to hire you?

Nothing upfront. We take hazing cases on contingency, which means:

• $0 upfront costs
• We cover all case expenses (medical records, expert witnesses, court fees)
• You only pay if we win — our fee comes from the settlement or verdict
• No hidden fees — you’ll know exactly what to expect

Hancock County families: Financial concerns should never stop you from seeking justice.

🚨 Hancock County Fraternities and Sororities: We Are Watching

A Warning to Greek Organizations Near Hancock County

To the fraternities and sororities operating at universities near Hancock County:

We are watching.

The same legal strategies that secured $10 million verdicts nationwide apply to your chapters. The same laws that make hazing illegal in Texas make it illegal in Indiana. And the same attorneys who are currently suing Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston are ready to pursue every chapter that engages in abuse.

Pi Kappa Phi, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Beta Theta Pi — if your chapter operates near Hancock County, know this:

• We track your house corporations, alumni chapters, and insurance structures
• We document your hazing histories and prior incidents
• We know how to pursue every liable entity — from the national organization to the individual members
• We will travel to Hancock County to hold you accountable

The Beta Nu chapter at University of Houston? SHUT DOWN. Charter surrendered. Criminal referrals initiated. Our client’s $10 million lawsuit is ongoing.

That’s what happens when you haze in America. Your chapter could be next.

🏆 Our Commitment to Hancock County Families

At Attorney 911, we’re not just fighting for compensation — we’re fighting for change. Every hazing case we take is a step toward making campuses safer for Hancock County students.

Our commitment to Hancock County families:

1. Aggressive Representation — We pursue every liable party and every possible dollar of compensation
2. Compassionate Support — We treat you like family, not just a case
3. Nationwide Reach — We serve Hancock County families no matter where the hazing occurred
4. No Upfront Costs — You pay nothing unless we win
5. 24/7 Availability — Legal emergencies don’t wait; neither do we
6. Bilingual Service — We serve Hancock County’s Spanish-speaking families
7. Proven Results — We don’t just talk about fighting hazing — we’re doing it right now

📢 Hancock County Parents: Enough Is Enough

Hazing has claimed too many lives. It has hospitalized too many students. It has destroyed too many families.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

If your Hancock County child has been hazed — or if you suspect hazing — you have the power to stop it. You have the power to hold the institutions accountable. You have the power to protect the next student.

Call us. Let’s fight this together.

1-888-ATTY-911 — ralph@atty911.com — attorney911.com

Hancock County families: Your child deserves justice. We’re ready to fight for it.