Hazing Victims in Barton County, Kansas: Your Rights, Your Recovery

Hazing Doesn’t Stop at State Lines — Neither Does Justice

Barton County families send their children to college expecting them to be safe. They trust universities to protect their students. They trust Greek organizations to uphold basic standards of decency.

But when that trust is broken — when fraternities and sororities use abuse, humiliation, and physical danger as “tradition” — Barton County families deserve justice.

This is happening at universities near Barton County. It could happen to your child. And if it does, Attorney 911 will fight for you with the same aggression we’re bringing to the $10 million Pi Kappa Phi hazing lawsuit we filed in Houston.

What Is Hazing? It’s Not “Tradition” — It’s Abuse

Hazing is any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them — regardless of whether they consent.

In Barton County and across Kansas, hazing includes:

• Forced alcohol consumption leading to alcohol poisoning
• Extreme physical exercise causing rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) and kidney failure
• Sleep deprivation leading to exhaustion and accidents
• Psychological torture like waterboarding, paddling, or being hog-tied
• Sexual humiliation and assault
• Being forced to consume food or non-food items until vomiting
• Any activity that creates unreasonable risk of harm

This isn’t “brotherhood” or “sisterhood.” It’s abuse. It’s assault. And it’s illegal in Kansas.

The Hazing Crisis Near Barton County

Barton County is home to strong communities with deep values of fairness, respect, and hard work. But just beyond our borders, at universities across Kansas and the nation, hazing continues — often with deadly consequences.

Recent Hazing Cases That Should Alarm Barton County Families:

These aren’t isolated incidents. They’re part of a pattern — one that exists at universities near Barton County.

Kansas Hazing Law: What Barton County Families Need to Know

Kansas has strong anti-hazing laws designed to protect students. Under Kansas Statutes § 21-5417, hazing is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine.

Key provisions of Kansas law:

• Consent is NOT a defense — Even if a student “agrees” to participate, it’s still illegal.
• Both individuals and organizations can be held liable — This includes fraternity/sorority chapters, national organizations, and even universities.
• It applies to all student organizations — Fraternities, sororities, sports teams, marching bands, ROTC, clubs, and more.
• It covers both physical and psychological harm — Including sleep deprivation, forced consumption, and humiliation.

If your child was hazed in Kansas, you have legal rights — and Attorney 911 can help you enforce them.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Hazing in Barton County?

When hazing occurs, multiple parties can — and should — be held accountable. In our Pi Kappa Phi case, we’re suing:

This same structure applies to Barton County cases. We don’t just sue one person — we hold everyone responsible.

What Can Barton County Families Recover?

Hazing victims and their families may be entitled to substantial compensation, including:

Economic Damages:

• Medical expenses — Hospital bills, rehabilitation, future treatment
• Lost wages — Time missed from work during recovery
• Educational costs — Tuition, fees, lost scholarships
• Therapy and counseling — For PTSD, anxiety, depression

Non-Economic Damages:

• Physical pain and suffering — From injuries sustained
• Mental anguish — Trauma from abuse, fear of retribution
• Emotional distress — Humiliation, shame, loss of trust
• Loss of enjoyment of life — Impact on college experience

Punitive Damages:

• Punishment for egregious conduct — When hazing involves torture, sexual abuse, or reckless endangerment
• Deterrence for other organizations — To send a message that this won’t be tolerated

In our Pi Kappa Phi case, we’re seeking $10 million. This is in line with recent hazing verdicts and settlements nationwide — and it’s what Barton County families deserve when their children are harmed.

The Barton County Family’s Guide: What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed

Step 1: Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

• If your child is in immediate danger, call 911.
• Take them to the emergency room — even if injuries seem minor. Some conditions (like rhabdomyolysis) don’t show symptoms immediately.
• Document everything — photos of injuries, hospital records, medical bills.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence

Hazing cases are won or lost on evidence. Do not delete anything.

✅ Save:

• Text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchats, Instagram DMs
• Photos and videos from hazing events
• Social media posts about hazing
• Witness contact information
• Fraternity/sorority documents (pledge manuals, schedules)
• Receipts for medical treatment

❌ Do NOT:

• Delete any messages or posts
• Confront the organization without legal counsel
• Sign anything from the fraternity/sorority or university
• Post about the incident on social media

Step 3: Report the Incident

• File a police report — Hazing is a crime in Kansas.
• Report to the university — Most schools have Title IX or student conduct offices.
• Document all reports — Keep copies of emails, complaint forms, and responses.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney

Do not talk to insurance companies, university administrators, or fraternity representatives without an attorney.

Why?

• They will try to minimize your child’s injuries.
• They will twist your words to blame the victim.
• They will offer lowball settlements before you know the full extent of damages.
• They have teams of lawyers — you need one too.

Attorney 911 offers:

• Free, confidential consultations for Barton County families
• $0 upfront costs — We work on contingency. You pay nothing unless we win.
• Nationwide representation — We can handle your case no matter where the hazing occurred.
• Aggressive advocacy — We’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit. We know how to win.

Step 5: Do Not Wait — The Clock Is Ticking

• Kansas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.
• Evidence disappears quickly — Texts get deleted, witnesses forget, organizations destroy records.
• The sooner you act, the stronger your case.

Why Barton County Families Choose Attorney 911

1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now

While other firms talk about hazing, we’re actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know the tactics defendants use, and we know how to defeat them.

2. We Have Insider Knowledge

Both of our attorneys are former insurance defense lawyers. We know how insurance companies value claims, delay cases, and try to deny liability. Now, we use that knowledge to maximize recovery for victims.

3. We Serve Barton County Families Nationwide

While we’re based in Texas, we represent hazing victims across America — including Barton County, Kansas. We offer:

• Video consultations — Meet with us from home.
• Travel to Barton County — For depositions, meetings, and trials.
• Federal court authority — We can pursue cases in federal jurisdiction.
• Dual-state bar licenses — Texas and New York, with experience in multi-state litigation.

4. We Speak Your Language

Our staff is bilingual (English and Spanish), ensuring that language barriers don’t prevent Barton County families from seeking justice.

5. We Care About More Than Just the Money

We see your child as a person — not a paycheck. We fight hard for Barton County families because we truly care about stopping hazing and protecting students.

The Attorney 911 Difference: Former Insurance Defense Lawyers

Most personal injury attorneys have only worked for plaintiffs. We’ve worked for the other side — the insurance companies, the corporations, the institutions.

At Litchfield Cavo LLP, Lupe Peña defended insurance companies against injury claims. At a prior firm, Ralph Manginello did the same.

We know their playbook because we wrote it.

Now, we use that insider knowledge to dismantle their defenses and fight for maximum compensation for Barton County families.

What Barton County Families Are Saying About Us

“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 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

“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

“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

Hazing at Kansas Universities: What Barton County Families Need to Know

Kansas State University (K-State) — Manhattan, KS

• Distance from Barton County: ~200 miles
• Greek Life: 30+ fraternities and sororities
• Known Hazing Incidents: Multiple reports of alcohol-related hazing in recent years
• University Response: Suspensions of chapters, but critics say oversight is insufficient

University of Kansas (KU) — Lawrence, KS

• Distance from Barton County: ~250 miles
• Greek Life: 40+ fraternities and sororities
• Known Hazing Incidents: Multiple suspensions for hazing, including alcohol violations and physical abuse
• University Response: Implemented new Greek life policies, but concerns remain

Wichita State University — Wichita, KS

• Distance from Barton County: ~100 miles
• Greek Life: 15+ fraternities and sororities
• Known Hazing Incidents: Reports of forced drinking and physical hazing in recent years

Fort Hays State University — Hays, KS

• Distance from Barton County: ~50 miles
• Greek Life: Several fraternities and sororities
• Known Hazing Incidents: Fewer reported incidents, but proximity to Barton County makes it a concern

Pittsburg State University — Pittsburg, KS

• Distance from Barton County: ~200 miles
• Greek Life: Active fraternity and sorority presence
• Known Hazing Incidents: Reports of alcohol-related hazing

The same national fraternities involved in hazing deaths and lawsuits nationwide — Pi Kappa Phi, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Beta Theta Pi — have chapters at Kansas universities. If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority near Barton County, they face the same risks.

The Warning Signs: Is Your Child Being Hazed?

Hazing is often hidden, but there are warning signs Barton County parents should watch for:

Behavioral Changes:

• Sudden withdrawal from family and friends
• Increased secrecy about activities
• Unexplained injuries or bruises
• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleeping)
• Increased anxiety, depression, or mood swings

Physical Symptoms:

• Extreme fatigue or exhaustion
• Difficulty walking or moving
• Vomiting or nausea
• Signs of alcohol poisoning (confusion, vomiting, unconsciousness)
• Unexplained pain or soreness

Academic Impact:

• Sudden drop in grades
• Missing classes or assignments
• Withdrawal from academic activities

Financial Red Flags:

• Unexplained expenses (e.g., “fraternity dues,” “event fees”)
• Requests for money without explanation

Social Media Clues:

• Posts about “pledge activities” or “big/little events”
• Photos or videos showing concerning behavior
• Deleted posts or sudden social media silence

If you notice these signs, talk to your child. And if you suspect hazing, contact Attorney 911 immediately.

Fraternities Near Barton County with Hazing Histories

The following fraternities have documented hazing incidents at their chapters nationwide. They operate at universities near Barton County, including K-State, KU, and Wichita State.

Barton County parents: These are the same Greek letters your child may see on campus. These organizations have paid millions in settlements — and they continue to haze students near Barton County.

The University’s Role: Why Schools Near Barton County Are Liable

Universities near Barton County have a legal duty to protect students from hazing. When they fail, they can — and should — be held accountable.

How Universities Enable Hazing:

1. They know it happens — Every university with Greek life has hazing incidents.
2. They have the power to stop it — They can suspend or expel chapters, inspect houses, enforce policies.
3. They choose not to act — Until someone is hospitalized or dies.
4. They own the property — Many universities own the fraternity/sorority houses where hazing occurs.

How We Hold Universities Accountable:

• Premises liability — If they own the house, they’re responsible for what happens there.
• Negligent supervision — Failure to monitor Greek life despite knowing the risks.
• Institutional negligence — Ignoring prior hazing incidents and failing to implement safeguards.
• Title IX violations — If hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based discrimination.

In our Pi Kappa Phi case, the University of Houston owned the fraternity house where waterboarding occurred. They collected rent while students were tortured. They will be held accountable — and so will universities near Barton County that fail to protect their students.

The National Organization’s Role: They Knew and Did Nothing

National fraternities and sororities have millions of dollars in assets and insurance. They also have a long history of failing to stop hazing.

How Nationals Enable Hazing:

1. They create the culture — Their rituals and traditions often encourage abuse.
2. They provide the manuals — Pledge programs are designed by nationals.
3. They know it happens — They dissolve chapters after incidents, proving they’re aware.
4. They do nothing to stop it — Despite knowing about deadly hazing, they fail to implement real oversight.

How We Hold Nationals Accountable:

• Negligent supervision — Failing to monitor chapters despite knowing about hazing.
• Failure to train — Not providing adequate anti-hazing training.
• Pattern of negligence — Multiple incidents at different chapters show systemic failure.
• Deep pockets — Nationals have insurance and assets to pay damages.

Pi Kappa Phi had a student die in 2017 (Andrew Coffey). They had 8 years to fix their culture. They didn’t. Now Leonel Bermudez is in the hospital. This pattern of negligence will cost them — and it should.

The Message to Fraternities Near Barton County

To the fraternities operating near Barton County:

We are watching.

We know your corporate structures. We know your insurance policies. We know your national organizations have paid millions in hazing settlements.

If your chapter harms students near Barton County, we will pursue every liable entity — the university, the national organization, the housing corporation, the alumni, and every individual member.

We are currently litigating a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi. The Beta Nu chapter at University of Houston? Shut down. Charter surrendered. Criminal referrals initiated.

Your chapter could be next.

Barton County Families: You Are Not Alone

Hazing can make victims and families feel isolated. Shame, fear of retribution, and loyalty to the organization can keep victims silent.

But you are not alone.

• Other students have been hazed — You may not be the only victim.
• Other families are fighting back — We’re representing hazing victims across America.
• The law is on your side — Kansas law protects you.
• We are on your side — Attorney 911 will fight for Barton County families.

Frequently Asked Questions for Barton County Families

1. My child was hazed, but they “consented” to participate. Can we still sue?

Yes. Kansas law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the fraternity, sorority, and university can still be held liable.

2. The hazing happened off-campus. Can the university still be held liable?

Yes. Universities have a duty to protect students from foreseeable harm, even off-campus. If the university knew or should have known about hazing, they can be held accountable.

3. My child is afraid of retribution. How can we protect them?

• Document everything — Save texts, photos, and witness statements.
• Report to authorities — File a police report and university complaint.
• Contact an attorney — We can help protect your child’s identity and safety.
• Consider a restraining order — If threats are made, legal protection is available.

4. How much is my child’s hazing case worth?

Every case is different, but recent hazing settlements and verdicts range from $1 million to $110 million, depending on:

• Severity of injuries
• Egregiousness of conduct
• Whether the university or national organization knew about prior incidents
• Long-term impact on your child’s health and future

In our Pi Kappa Phi case, we’re seeking $10 million — and that’s what Barton County families deserve when their children are harmed.

5. How long do we have to file a lawsuit?

Kansas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This means you have 2 years from the date of the hazing incident to file a lawsuit.

Do not wait. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and your rights expire.

6. My child was hazed at a university outside Kansas. Can you still help?

Yes. While we’re based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including those hazed at out-of-state universities. We have:

• Federal court authority
• Dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York)
• Experience in multi-state litigation

7. How much will it cost to hire Attorney 911?

Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay $0 to hire us.
• We only get paid if we win your case.
• Our fee is a percentage of the recovery — typically 33-40%.

Barton County families pay nothing unless we win.

8. What if the fraternity offers my child a settlement?

Do not accept any settlement without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies and fraternities often offer lowball settlements before victims know the full extent of their injuries or legal rights.

We can negotiate on your behalf and maximize your recovery.

Barton County Families: Take Action Now

1. Call Attorney 911 for a Free Consultation

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

2. Preserve All Evidence

• Save all text messages, social media posts, and photos.
• Keep medical records and bills.
• Document witness names and contact information.

3. Report the Incident

• File a police report.
• Report to the university’s Title IX or student conduct office.

4. Do Not Talk to the Fraternity or University Without an Attorney

They will try to minimize your child’s injuries and shift blame. Let us handle them.

The Time to Act Is Now

Hazing doesn’t wait. Evidence disappears. Memories fade. Statutes of limitations expire.

Barton County families: Your child deserves justice. Your family deserves accountability.

Call Attorney 911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation.

Attorney 911: Fighting for Barton County Families

Houston Office:
1177 W Loop S, Suite 1600
Houston, TX 77027
📞 (713) 528-9070

Austin Office:
📞 (713) 528-9070

Beaumont Office:
📞 (713) 528-9070

Serving Barton County, Kansas, and Nationwide

Available 24/7 for Barton County hazing emergencies.