🚨 Hazing Lawyers for Jefferson County, Indiana — Protecting Students and Families

Hazing Happens in Jefferson County. We Fight Back.

At Attorney 911, we are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston after a student was hospitalized with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure from extreme hazing. This same hazing happens at colleges and universities near Jefferson County, Indiana. If your child has been hazed at a fraternity, sorority, sports team, or other student organization in Jefferson County, we can help.

We serve hazing victims in Jefferson County and across Indiana from our offices in Texas — with federal court authority, dual-state bar licenses, and a commitment to fighting for justice no matter where you are.

🏢 Who We Are — Jefferson County’s Hazing Litigation Experts

Attorney 911 — Legal Emergency Lawyers™ — Now Serving Jefferson County, Indiana

Immediate, aggressive help for legal emergencies — 24/7 free consultations. We protect hazing victims and their families in Jefferson County and nationwide.

While based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, we proudly serve hazing victims in Jefferson County, Indiana and across America through our federal court authority, dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York), and willingness to travel for justice.

Why Jefferson County Families Choose Attorney 911 for Hazing Cases

The Attorney 911 Approach — How We Serve Jefferson County Hazing Victims

When a legal emergency hits — whether it’s hazing in Jefferson County or anywhere in America — we move FIRST, FAST, and DECISIVELY.

For Jefferson County hazing victims, our team:

• Builds cases with expert witnesses (medical, Greek life culture, institutional negligence)
• Preserves evidence immediately — texts, photos, medical records, witness statements
• Negotiates from strength — we’re currently litigating a $10 MILLION hazing case
• Travels to Jefferson County for depositions, meetings, and trials when needed
• Provides remote consultations — Jefferson County families can video chat with our attorneys
• Fights for justice — no matter where the hazing occurred

If a university, fraternity, or insurance company tries to silence Jefferson County hazing victims, we take it to court.

Why Jefferson County Families Trust Us

Hazing Litigation Expertise — 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 after a student was hospitalized with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure from extreme hazing. This isn’t theoretical — we’re in the fight RIGHT NOW. Jefferson County families get the same aggressive representation.

Nationwide Reach — We Serve Jefferson County, Indiana

While based in Texas, we serve hazing victims in Jefferson County and across America through:

• Federal court authority (U.S. District Court admission)
• Dual-state bar licenses (Texas AND New York)
• Willingness to travel for Jefferson County cases
• Remote consultation technology for Jefferson County families who can’t travel
• Nationwide fraternity/sorority experience — can pursue nationals anywhere

Staff & Culture — We Treat Jefferson County Families Like Family

Our staff is bilingual, friendly, and genuinely passionate about helping hazing victims. Jefferson County families are treated with the same care and respect as our local clients.

Payment Flexibility — $0 Upfront for Jefferson County Families

We understand that cost can be a prohibitive factor in hiring a lawyer, especially for Jefferson County families dealing with the trauma of hazing. We take hazing cases on CONTINGENCY — you don’t pay us unless and until you get paid yourself.

CONTINGENCY FEE: Jefferson County hazing victims pay $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless we WIN your case.

What Sets Us Apart for Jefferson County Victims

We know Jefferson County families have choices. What makes us different is our real emotional investment in hazing victims. We’ve seen what fraternities do to kids. We’re fighting it in court right now. We see your child as a person — not a paycheck. And we will fight hard for Jefferson County families, because we truly care.

Client Testimonials — Hear From Families We’ve Helped

“After being injured, I was hurt, scared, and didn’t know what to do. After one phone call with Ralph, I knew everything was going to be OK.”
— Mary F.

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer regarding my case.”
— Dame Haskett

“I was in a very bad vehicle accident last year… when they picked up my case they were on it it did not take a very long time for us to settle… the settlement was in my favor in my opinion they did a great job”
— Sharon Giron

“If you’re ever in a car accident, I highly recommend you give them a call 10/10. The staff provides great customer service and show they are a firm that cares about their clients!”
— Devin Hebert

“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

“This place feels like having a family over your case. And communication with you every step of the way. That’s how you know you’re in good hands.”
— Kiwi Potato

“My wife and I had such a great experience with this law firm. They all go above and beyond and really care about you as a person. I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.”
— Ambur Hamilton

🚨 The Hazing Crisis in Jefferson County — What Families Need to Know

Hazing Doesn’t Stop at State Lines — It Happens in Indiana Too

Hazing isn’t just a problem in Texas or at big universities. It happens right here near Jefferson County, Indiana. The same national fraternities that waterboarded our client in Houston have chapters at universities near Jefferson County. The same hazing “traditions” that hospitalized our client exist in Indiana.

Jefferson County families need to know:

• Hazing occurs at fraternities, sororities, sports teams, marching bands, ROTC, and other student organizations near Jefferson County
• 55% of students in Greek organizations experience hazing
• 40% of student athletes report hazing
• 95% of hazing victims don’t report it
• Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every year in America

What Hazing Looks Like Near Jefferson County

Hazing near Jefferson County can include:

• Physical abuse — beatings, paddling, branding, forced exercise to exhaustion
• Forced consumption — alcohol (binge drinking), food (eating until vomiting), non-food substances
• Sleep deprivation — forced late nights, early mornings, disrupted sleep
• Psychological torture — humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, threats
• Sexual abuse — forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects
• Waterboarding/drowning — simulated drowning, water torture
• Exposure — cold weather exposure, heat exposure, confined spaces
• Servitude — forced cleaning, driving, errands for members

Medical consequences can include:

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) — as seen in our current case
• Acute kidney failure — as seen in our current case
• Alcohol poisoning — common in forced drinking hazing
• Traumatic brain injury — from beatings or falls
• Hypothermia/hyperthermia — from exposure
• Cardiac arrest — from extreme physical exertion
• PTSD, anxiety, depression — long-term psychological damage
• Death

⚠️ Our Landmark Case — The $10 Million Fight That Proves Jefferson County Families Can Win

This Happened in Houston. It Could Happen in Jefferson County.

Case: Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al.
Filed: November 21, 2025 — Harris County, Texas
Damages Sought: $10,000,000
Attorneys: Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena — Attorney 911

What Happened:
Leonel Bermudez, a “ghost rush” (not even enrolled at UH yet), accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi fraternity at the University of Houston on September 16, 2025. What followed was weeks of systematic abuse, torture, and hazing that hospitalized him for three nights and four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

The Hazing Activities:

• Waterboarding — “Simulated waterboarding with a garden hose” (KHOU 11)
• Forced eating — Large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns consumed until vomiting
• Extreme physical punishment — 100+ pushups, 500 squats, “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, 100-yard crawls, two-mile warmups
• Wooden paddles — Being struck with wooden paddles (Houston Chronicle)
• Psychological torture — Forced to carry a fanny pack with objects of sexual nature; another pledge hog-tied face-down on table with object in mouth for over an hour
• Sleep deprivation — Forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours
• Threats — Threatened with physical punishment and/or expulsion for non-compliance

The Medical Consequences:

• Rhabdomyolysis — Breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue releasing myoglobin into bloodstream
• Acute kidney failure — Myoglobin damaged kidneys; life-threatening
• Hospitalized for 3 nights, 4 days — Required intensive medical treatment
• Could not stand or walk — Severe muscle damage
• Brown urine — Classic sign of muscle breakdown (myoglobinuria)

The Institutional Response:

• Pi Kappa Phi National closed the chapter immediately — but only after the hospitalization
• University of Houston called the conduct “deeply disturbing” and admitted it violated their standards
• Pi Kappa Phi National thanked UH for “collaboration” — showing coordination between defendants
• They’re already planning to return to campus — no remorse, no accountability

Why This Case Matters to Jefferson County Families

1. Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters across America — including near Jefferson County
2. The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client happen at Indiana fraternities
3. Universities near Jefferson County face the same liability failures as UH
4. If your child is being hazed in Jefferson County, we will fight for you just like we’re fighting in Houston
5. This case proves hazing victims can win — and win big

From Ralph Manginello to ABC13:

“When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure.”

From Lupe Pena to ABC13:

“If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

⚖️ Jefferson County Families’ Legal Rights — What You Can Do

Indiana Hazing Laws — Know Your Rights

Indiana has strong anti-hazing laws that protect students near Jefferson County. 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 the hazing results in serious bodily injury, it becomes a Level 6 felony, punishable by 6 months to 2.5 years in prison.

Key Provisions of Indiana Hazing Law:

• Hazing is illegal — no matter what the organization calls it
• Consent is not a defense — even if the victim “agreed” to participate
• Organizations can be held liable — fraternities, sororities, sports teams, etc.
• Individuals can be held personally liable — chapter officers, members, alumni

Who Can Be Sued for Hazing in Jefferson County?

If your child was hazed in or near Jefferson County, you can sue:

• The local chapter — for organizing and conducting the hazing
• The national organization — for failing to supervise and prevent hazing
• The university/college — for failing to protect students and allowing hazing to occur
• Individual members — for participating in or facilitating hazing
• Alumni — for hosting hazing events
• Property owners — if hazing occurred at a private residence

In our current case, we are suing:

• Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters
• The local UH chapter
• The chapter housing corporation
• University of Houston
• UH Board of Regents
• The fraternity president
• The pledgemaster
• Current and former members
• A former member and his spouse (hazing occurred at their residence)

Jefferson County families can pursue the same defendants.

💰 Precedent Cases — Hazing Victims Win Millions

Jefferson County Families: These Cases Prove You Can Win

These cases show that hazing victims and their families can — and do — win multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts. Jefferson County families can achieve the same justice.

📋 What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Jefferson County

Immediate Action Guide for Jefferson County Families

If your child has been hazed in or near Jefferson County, take these steps immediately:

1. Ensure Safety

   • Remove your child from the dangerous situation
   • Seek medical attention if needed — even if injuries seem minor

2. Preserve Evidence

   • Save all communications — texts, emails, social media messages, GroupMe chats
   • Take photos/videos — injuries, hazing locations, items used in hazing
   • Document everything — dates, times, locations, people involved
   • Get witness information — names and contact info of other victims or witnesses

3. Seek Medical Attention

   • Go to the emergency room or urgent care
   • Document all injuries and symptoms
   • Request copies of all medical records

4. Report the Hazing

   • File a police report — hazing is a crime in Indiana
   • Report to the university — file a formal complaint with the school’s administration
   • Report to the national organization — if it’s a Greek organization, report to the national headquarters

5. Do NOT Talk to the Organization

   • Do not speak to fraternity/sorority leadership without legal counsel
   • Do not sign any documents from the organization
   • Do not post about the incident on social media

6. Contact an Attorney Immediately

   • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
   • We will guide you through the legal process
   • We will handle all communications with the organization and their lawyers

🎯 Why Jefferson County Families Need a Hazing Lawyer

The Organizations Will Fight Back — You Need a Fighter on Your Side

Universities and national fraternities have:

• In-house legal departments
• Insurance company lawyers
• Risk management professionals
• Crisis PR teams

They will try to:

• Blame the victim
• Claim the victim “consented”
• Destroy evidence
• Intimidate witnesses
• Offer lowball settlements

You need your own experienced legal team to level the playing field.

How We Help Jefferson County Hazing Victims

1. Investigate the Hazing

   • Gather evidence — texts, photos, videos, witness statements
   • Interview witnesses
   • Document the timeline of events

2. Preserve Evidence

   • Send preservation letters to all defendants
   • Prevent destruction of evidence
   • Obtain security camera footage, if available

3. Build a Strong Case

   • Work with medical experts to document injuries
   • Work with Greek life experts to establish pattern of hazing
   • Work with financial experts to calculate damages

4. Negotiate with Defendants

   • Handle all communications with the organization and their lawyers
   • Demand fair compensation for your child’s injuries
   • Fight for maximum settlement

5. Take It to Court if Necessary

   • File a lawsuit if defendants won’t offer a fair settlement
   • Present your case to a judge and jury
   • Fight for justice in court

6. Protect Your Child’s Future

   • Ensure your child receives the medical care they need
   • Fight for compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and more
   • Hold the responsible parties accountable

🏛️ Who Is Liable for Hazing in Jefferson County?

We Sue Everyone Responsible

📞 Jefferson County Families — Contact Us Now

Free Consultation — 24/7 — 1-888-ATTY-911

If your child has been hazed in or near Jefferson County, Indiana, call us immediately for a free, confidential consultation.

We understand the trauma and fear you’re experiencing. We’re here to help.

Our Jefferson County hazing lawyers are available 24/7:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com

We work on contingency — $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless you win.

We Serve All of Jefferson County and Nearby Areas

While we are based in Texas, we serve hazing victims throughout Jefferson County, Indiana and the surrounding region, including:

• Madison
• Hanover
• Canaan
• Dupont
• Kent
• Deputy
• And nearby counties

We also serve students at universities near Jefferson County, including:

• Hanover College (Hanover, IN)
• Ivy Tech Community College – Madison (Madison, IN)
• And other nearby institutions

Distance is not a barrier. We offer:

• Video consultations for Jefferson County families
• Travel to Jefferson County for depositions, meetings, and trials
• Remote case management so you don’t have to travel

🚫 Warning Signs of Hazing — What Jefferson County Parents Should Watch For

Hazing often goes unreported. Jefferson County parents should watch for these warning signs that your child may be experiencing hazing:

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained injuries — bruises, cuts, burns, broken bones
• Fatigue, exhaustion, or sleep deprivation
• Weight loss or changes in appetite
• Signs of alcohol or drug use
• Difficulty walking or moving

Behavioral Signs:

• Sudden changes in mood or behavior
• Anxiety, depression, or withdrawal
• Fear of speaking about certain activities
• Increased secrecy about their schedule
• Sudden decline in academic performance
• Avoidance of certain people or places

Social Signs:

• Sudden new group of friends (fraternity/sorority members)
• Changes in dress or appearance
• Carrying unusual items (fanny packs, paddles, etc.)
• Spending excessive time at fraternity/sorority house
• Missing classes or social events

Communication Signs:

• Vague or evasive answers about activities
• Mention of “traditions” or “rituals”
• References to being a “pledge” or “new member”
• Complaints about physical or emotional distress
• Expressions of fear or intimidation

If you notice any of these signs, talk to your child immediately. If you suspect hazing, contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for guidance.

🛡️ How to Protect Your Child from Hazing in Jefferson County

Proactive Steps for Jefferson County Families

1. Educate Your Child

   • Talk to your child about the dangers of hazing
   • Explain that hazing is illegal and unacceptable
   • Encourage them to trust their instincts — if something feels wrong, it probably is

2. Research Organizations

   • Before your child joins any organization (fraternity, sorority, sports team, etc.), research its reputation
   • Look for news articles about hazing incidents
   • Check the organization’s website and social media for red flags

3. Ask Questions

   • Ask the organization about their hazing policies
   • Ask how they enforce those policies
   • Ask what happens if someone reports hazing

4. Stay Involved

   • Maintain open communication with your child
   • Ask about their experiences in the organization
   • Watch for warning signs of hazing

5. Know the Law

   • Familiarize yourself with Indiana’s hazing laws
   • Understand that hazing is illegal, regardless of “tradition” or “consent”

6. Have an Exit Plan

   • Make sure your child knows they can leave any organization at any time
   • Assure them that you will support their decision to leave
   • Help them identify safe alternatives for social involvement

📚 Educational Resources for Jefferson County Families

Learn More About Hazing and Your Rights

• HazingPrevention.org — Resources and education on hazing prevention
• StopHazing.org — Research and advocacy on hazing
• Indiana Anti-Hazing Laws — Indiana Code § 35-42-2-2
• Clery Act — Federal law requiring colleges to report hazing incidents
• Title IX — Protects students from gender-based hazing and harassment

🎥 Video Resources — Hear From Our Attorneys

Attorney 911 YouTube Channel — Legal Guidance for Jefferson County Families

We’ve created a series of videos to help hazing victims and their families understand their rights. Watch these videos to learn more:

• “What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed” — Immediate steps to take
• “Understanding Hazing Laws in Indiana” — Know your legal rights
• “Who Can Be Sued for Hazing?” — Identifying all responsible parties
• “How Much Is a Hazing Case Worth?” — Understanding damages and compensation
• “Why You Need a Hazing Lawyer” — Protecting your child’s future

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more legal guidance: Attorney 911 YouTube

📢 Message to Jefferson County Fraternities and Sororities

We Are Watching. We Are Coming. The Hazing Stops Now.

To every fraternity and sorority operating near Jefferson County:

We are Attorney 911. We are Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena. And we are coming for every chapter that thinks it can haze our children and get away with it.

We have sued Pi Kappa Phi for waterboarding a student. We have sued the University of Houston for owning the house where it happened. We have demanded $10 million for the pain and suffering they caused.

If your chapter is hazing students near Jefferson County, we will find out. And we will hold you accountable.

To the national organizations:
You have the power to stop this. You have the responsibility to stop this. If you continue to allow hazing at your chapters, we will sue you too.

To the universities near Jefferson County:
You have a duty to protect your students. If you continue to allow hazing on your campus, we will hold you liable.

The hazing stops now. The lawsuits begin here.

🏆 The Fight for Justice in Jefferson County Starts Today

Jefferson County Families — You Are Not Alone

Hazing is a betrayal of trust. It’s a violation of the law. It’s a danger to our children’s lives.

But you don’t have to face this alone.

At Attorney 911, we are fighting this battle every day. We are standing up for hazing victims and their families. We are holding institutions accountable. And we are winning.

If your child has been hazed in Jefferson County or anywhere in Indiana, call us now. We will fight for you. We will fight for justice. And we will make sure this never happens to another Jefferson County family.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com

The fight starts today. Your child’s future depends on it.