Hazing Victim Legal Representation in Arenac County, Michigan

Protecting Students from Greek Life Abuse at Northern Michigan Universities

Attorney 911: Your Legal Emergency Response for Hazing Injuries in Arenac County

If your child has been the victim of fraternity or sorority hazing at a Michigan university near Arenac County, you need immediate legal representation. Based in Houston but serving clients nationwide, Attorney 911 is currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston – and we’re ready to bring that same aggressive representation to Arenac County families.

The Hazing Crisis in Northern Michigan

Hazing isn’t just happening at big Texas schools – it’s a serious problem at universities throughout Michigan, including those near Arenac County. The same national fraternities and sororities that have paid millions in settlements for hazing deaths and injuries operate chapters at Michigan institutions, including:

• Central Michigan University (Mount Pleasant)
• Ferris State University (Big Rapids)
• Northwood University (Midland)
• Saginaw Valley State University (University Center)
• Alma College (Alma)
• Alpena Community College (Alpena)

These organizations have a documented history of dangerous initiation rituals that can lead to serious physical and psychological harm – exactly like what we’re seeing in our current case against Pi Kappa Phi.

Our Current $10 Million Hazing Case: What Happened at UH Could Happen Here

In November 2025, our client Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized with severe rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure after being subjected to extreme hazing at the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi chapter. The fraternity’s “traditions” included:

• Waterboarding with garden hoses – simulated drowning as punishment
• Forced consumption of food and milk until vomiting – then forced to continue exercising
• Extreme physical punishment – 500 squats, 100+ pushups, bear crawls, and other exercises until collapse
• Wooden paddle beatings – physical abuse with weapons
• Sleep deprivation – forced to drive members during early morning hours
• Psychological torture – carrying sexual objects, being hog-tied face-down for hours

This isn’t just “boys being boys” or “harmless tradition” – it’s systematic abuse that can cause permanent damage or death. And it’s happening right here in Michigan.

Why Arenac County Families Need Specialized Hazing Attorneys

Hazing cases are complex and require specific expertise that most personal injury lawyers don’t have. At Attorney 911, we offer:

1. Proven Hazing Litigation Experience

We’re currently fighting a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical – we’re in the courtroom right now, and we know how to win these cases.

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked for insurance companies before switching to represent victims. We know exactly how they’ll try to minimize or deny your claim, and we know how to counter their tactics.

3. Nationwide Reach with Local Impact

While we’re based in Texas, we serve clients across America through:

• Federal court authority (U.S. District Court admission)
• Dual-state bar licenses (Texas AND New York)
• Willingness to travel to Michigan for depositions and trials
• Remote consultation technology for Arenac County families

4. Federal Court Experience

We’re admitted to practice in federal court, which means we can pursue claims against national fraternity organizations no matter where they’re headquartered.

5. Bilingual Services

We offer legal services in Spanish to serve Michigan’s diverse student population.

Michigan Hazing Laws: What Arenac County Families Need to Know

Michigan has strong anti-hazing laws that protect students:

Michigan Compiled Laws § 750.411t – Hazing Prohibited

• Defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student
• Applies to both on-campus and off-campus activities
• Consent is NOT a defense – victims can’t legally agree to hazing
• Violations can result in felony charges for serious bodily injury or death

Michigan’s Anti-Hazing Act (2018)

• Requires universities to implement hazing education programs
• Mandates reporting of hazing incidents
• Provides immunity for individuals who report hazing in good faith

Potential Criminal Penalties in Michigan

• Misdemeanor: Up to 93 days in jail and/or $1,000 fine for basic hazing
• Felony: Up to 5 years in prison if hazing results in serious injury
• Felony: Up to 15 years in prison if hazing results in death

Who Can Be Held Liable for Hazing in Michigan?

When your child is hazed, multiple parties may be responsible:

1. The Local Chapter

The individual fraternity or sorority chapter that organized and conducted the hazing activities.

2. National Organization

The national fraternity or sorority that failed to supervise and enforce anti-hazing policies.

3. University

The college or university that failed to prevent hazing despite having the authority to regulate Greek organizations.

4. Chapter Officers

Individuals in leadership positions who directed or allowed hazing to occur.

5. Individual Members

Active participants in hazing activities.

6. Alumni

Former members who hosted or facilitated hazing events.

7. Property Owners

Individuals or entities that allowed hazing to occur on their property.

Types of Hazing We’ve Seen at Michigan Universities

Hazing takes many forms, all of which can cause serious harm:

Physical Hazing

• Beatings with paddles or other objects
• Extreme exercise regimens (like 500 squats, marathon running)
• Forced consumption of alcohol or food until vomiting
• Sleep deprivation
• Exposure to extreme temperatures
• Branding or tattooing
• Forced physical labor

Psychological Hazing

• Verbal abuse and humiliation
• Threats of physical harm
• Social isolation
• Sleep deprivation causing mental distress
• Forced to perform degrading acts
• Carrying embarrassing objects

Sexual Hazing

• Forced nudity
• Sexual simulation
• Unwanted touching
• Sexual assault
• Forced sexual acts

Dangerous Hazing

• Waterboarding or simulated drowning
• Forced drug or alcohol consumption
• Blindfolded activities
• Kidnapping or “kidnaps”
• Forced to commit crimes

The Medical Consequences of Hazing: What Michigan Parents Need to Know

Hazing can cause serious, sometimes permanent injuries:

Physical Injuries

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown that can lead to kidney failure)
• Alcohol poisoning (can be fatal)
• Traumatic brain injuries from falls or beatings
• Broken bones from physical abuse
• Internal bleeding from blunt force trauma
• Severe dehydration
• Hypothermia or heat stroke from exposure
• Burns from branding or other thermal injuries

Psychological Injuries

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Suicidal ideation
• Trust issues
• Academic decline
• Social withdrawal

Long-Term Consequences

• Chronic health problems
• Permanent disability
• Substance abuse
• Career limitations
• Relationship difficulties
• Ongoing therapy needs

What to Do If Your Child Has Been Hazed in Michigan

If you suspect your child has been hazed at a Michigan university:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if injuries seem minor, get a medical evaluation. Some conditions like rhabdomyolysis may not show symptoms immediately.

2. Preserve All Evidence

• Save all text messages, emails, and social media communications
• Take photographs of any injuries
• Document the hazing location
• Get contact information for witnesses
• Save any physical evidence (clothing, objects used in hazing)

3. Do NOT Confront the Organization Directly

Fraternities and sororities will try to control the narrative and destroy evidence. Let your attorney handle all communications.

4. Report to Authorities

• File a police report
• Report to university administration
• Consider filing a Title IX complaint if sexual misconduct was involved

5. Contact Attorney 911 Immediately

Time is critical. Michigan has a 3-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, but evidence disappears quickly.

Why Arenac County Families Choose Attorney 911

1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now

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

2. We Understand Greek Life Culture

Our attorneys have deep knowledge of fraternity and sorority culture, including:

• The power dynamics between members and pledges
• The pressure to conform and “prove yourself”
• The fear of retaliation for speaking out
• The “code of silence” that protects hazers

3. We Know How to Find the Money

Hazing cases require identifying all possible sources of compensation:

• National fraternity organizations (deep pockets)
• University insurance policies
• Individual members’ homeowners insurance
• Chapter assets
• Personal assets of responsible individuals

4. We Have the Resources to Fight

Taking on universities and national fraternities requires significant resources:

• Medical experts to document injuries
• Investigators to gather evidence
• Financial experts to calculate damages
• Litigation support for complex cases

5. We Offer Contingency Fees

We know cost can be a barrier for families dealing with hazing injuries. That’s why we take hazing cases on contingency – you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.

The Attorney 911 Difference: How We Protect Michigan Families

1. Immediate Response

We act fast to preserve evidence before it disappears. In our current case, we filed suit within weeks of our client’s hospitalization.

2. Comprehensive Investigation

We don’t just take the fraternity’s word for what happened. We:

• Interview witnesses
• Obtain security camera footage
• Subpoena text messages and social media records
• Work with medical experts to document injuries

3. Aggressive Negotiation

We know how insurance companies and universities think. We won’t accept lowball settlement offers that don’t fully compensate your child for their injuries.

4. Willingness to Go to Trial

If defendants won’t offer fair compensation, we’re prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys have extensive courtroom experience and aren’t afraid to fight for what your family deserves.

5. Compassionate Representation

We understand the emotional toll hazing takes on victims and their families. We treat our clients with respect and provide support throughout the legal process.

What Michigan Families Can Recover in a Hazing Lawsuit

Victims of hazing may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages (if the victim had to miss work)
• Lost earning capacity (if injuries affect future career prospects)
• Educational expenses (tuition, books, etc. if education was disrupted)
• Rehabilitation costs

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering (physical and emotional)
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium (impact on family relationships)

Punitive Damages

In cases of particularly egregious conduct, Michigan courts may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoers and deter future misconduct.

Michigan Universities with Greek Life Presence Near Arenac County

Several universities in Northern Michigan have active Greek life programs where hazing may occur:

Central Michigan University (Mount Pleasant)

• Location: Approximately 150 miles southwest of Arenac County
• Greek Organizations: 20+ fraternities and sororities
• Notable Incidents: CMU has had multiple hazing investigations in recent years

Ferris State University (Big Rapids)

• Location: Approximately 180 miles southwest of Arenac County
• Greek Organizations: 12 fraternities and sororities
• Notable Incidents: Past allegations of alcohol-related hazing

Northwood University (Midland)

• Location: Approximately 120 miles southwest of Arenac County
• Greek Organizations: Several fraternities and sororities
• Notable Incidents: Greek life plays a significant role in campus culture

Saginaw Valley State University (University Center)

• Location: Approximately 130 miles south of Arenac County
• Greek Organizations: 10+ fraternities and sororities
• Notable Incidents: Past disciplinary actions against Greek organizations

Alma College (Alma)

• Location: Approximately 120 miles southwest of Arenac County
• Greek Organizations: Several fraternities and sororities
• Notable Incidents: Smaller school but still has Greek life presence

Alpena Community College (Alpena)

• Location: Approximately 50 miles northeast of Arenac County
• Greek Organizations: Limited Greek life presence
• Notable Incidents: Smaller school but still potential for hazing

Warning Signs of Hazing at Michigan Universities

Michigan parents should watch for these warning signs that their child may be experiencing hazing:

Behavioral Changes

• Sudden withdrawal from family and friends
• Increased secrecy about activities
• Unexplained mood swings or depression
• Sudden drop in academic performance
• Increased fatigue or sleep disturbances

Physical Signs

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries
• Difficulty walking or moving normally
• Signs of dehydration or malnutrition
• Symptoms of alcohol or drug use
• Weight loss or gain

Organizational Red Flags

• Your child suddenly has “no time” for other activities
• They’re always with the same group of people
• They talk about “earning” their place in the group
• They mention “traditions” that sound suspicious
• They seem fearful or anxious about certain activities

Michigan-Specific Resources for Hazing Victims

Reporting Hazing in Michigan

• Michigan State Police: File a criminal complaint
• University Conduct Offices: Report to the university’s student conduct office
• Michigan Department of Civil Rights: For discrimination or civil rights violations
• Michigan Attorney General’s Office: For statewide issues

Support Organizations

• HazingPrevention.Org: National organization with Michigan resources
• StopHazing: Research and prevention organization
• Clery Center: Campus safety resources
• Michigan College Access Network: Resources for college students

Medical Resources

• Michigan Medicine (University of Michigan): Specialized care for hazing injuries
• Spectrum Health: Comprehensive medical care
• McLaren Health Care: Network of hospitals across Michigan

Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing in Michigan

Q: What is the statute of limitations for hazing lawsuits in Michigan?

A: Michigan has a 3-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including hazing cases. This means you have three years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. However, it’s crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence.

Q: Can I sue if my child consented to the hazing activities?

A: Yes. Michigan law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the organization can still be held liable for any harm caused.

Q: What if the hazing occurred off-campus?

A: Hazing laws apply regardless of where the activities took place. Off-campus hazing is still illegal and can result in both criminal charges and civil liability.

Q: Can I afford a hazing attorney?

A: At Attorney 911, we take hazing cases on contingency, which means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This allows families to access high-quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation.

Q: What if my child is afraid of retaliation?

A: We understand the fear of retaliation and take steps to protect our clients. This may include:

• Filing lawsuits under seal initially
• Protecting your child’s identity
• Seeking protective orders
• Holding organizations accountable for any retaliation

Q: How long does a hazing lawsuit take?

A: Every case is different, but hazing lawsuits typically take 1-3 years to resolve. Some cases settle quickly, while others may go to trial. We work to resolve cases as efficiently as possible while ensuring our clients receive full compensation.

Q: What if the university claims they didn’t know about the hazing?

A: Universities have a responsibility to oversee Greek organizations and prevent hazing. If they failed to implement proper oversight, they can still be held liable. In our current case, the University of Houston owned the fraternity house where the hazing occurred, making their liability even clearer.

Q: Can I sue the national fraternity organization?

A: Yes. National organizations can be held liable for failing to supervise their chapters and enforce anti-hazing policies. In our current case, we’re suing both the local chapter and the national Pi Kappa Phi organization.

Q: What if my child was hazed at a community college in Michigan?

A: Hazing laws apply to all educational institutions, including community colleges. Even if the Greek organization is less formal, hazing is still illegal and can result in legal consequences.

Q: How can I prove my child was hazed?

A: Evidence can include:

• Medical records documenting injuries
• Text messages or social media communications
• Photographs or videos
• Witness statements
• Physical evidence (clothing, objects used in hazing)
• University records of prior hazing incidents

Case Study: The Pi Kappa Phi Waterboarding Case

Our current $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston demonstrates the serious nature of hazing and the potential for significant legal recovery:

What Happened:

• Victim: Leonel Bermudez, a “ghost rush” (not yet enrolled at UH)
• Organization: Pi Kappa Phi fraternity at University of Houston
• Timeframe: September-November 2025
• Injuries: Severe rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure requiring 4 days of hospitalization

Hazing Activities:

• Waterboarding with garden hoses (simulated drowning)
• Forced consumption of food and milk until vomiting
• Extreme physical exercise (500 squats, 100+ pushups, bear crawls, 100-yard crawls)
• Wooden paddle beatings
• Sleep deprivation (forced to drive members during early morning hours)
• Psychological torture (carrying sexual objects, being hog-tied for hours)

Legal Action:

• Lawsuit filed: November 21, 2025
• Damages sought: $10 million
• Defendants: Pi Kappa Phi National, local chapter, University of Houston, individual members
• Current status: Active litigation

Why This Case Matters for Michigan Families:

1. Same fraternities operate in Michigan – Pi Kappa Phi and other national organizations have chapters at Michigan universities.
2. Same hazing culture exists – The “traditions” that hospitalized our client in Texas exist at Michigan chapters too.
3. Universities are similarly liable – Michigan universities have the same duty to protect students from hazing.
4. Pattern of negligence – Pi Kappa Phi had a hazing death in 2017 and still failed to prevent this incident.
5. $10 million is achievable – This case shows that hazing victims can receive significant compensation.

How We’ll Fight for Arenac County Families

When you choose Attorney 911 to represent your child in a Michigan hazing case, here’s what you can expect:

1. Immediate Case Evaluation

We’ll review your case at no cost to determine its strength and potential value.

2. Evidence Preservation

We’ll send preservation letters to all potential defendants to ensure evidence isn’t destroyed.

3. Comprehensive Investigation

Our team will:

• Interview witnesses
• Obtain security camera footage
• Subpoena text messages and social media records
• Work with medical experts to document injuries
• Research prior hazing incidents at the organization

4. Medical Documentation

We’ll work with your child’s healthcare providers to fully document:

• Physical injuries
• Psychological trauma
• Long-term health consequences
• Future medical needs

5. Damage Calculation

Our financial experts will calculate:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Punitive damages

6. Aggressive Negotiation

We’ll negotiate with:

• The fraternity/sorority
• The national organization
• The university
• Insurance companies

7. Litigation if Necessary

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to trial.

8. Ongoing Support

We’ll provide emotional support and guidance throughout the legal process.

Contact Attorney 911 for Michigan Hazing Cases

If your child has been the victim of hazing at a Michigan university near Arenac County, don’t wait to seek legal help. Evidence disappears quickly, and Michigan’s statute of limitations is ticking.

Call Us 24/7 for a Free Consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Email:

✉ ralph@atty911.com

Visit Our Website:

🌐 attorney911.com

Office Locations (Serving Michigan Remotely):

• Houston: 1177 W Loop S Suite 1600, Houston, TX 77027
• Austin: Serving clients from our Austin office
• Beaumont: Serving clients from our Beaumont office

We offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. Distance is not a barrier – we serve hazing victims throughout Michigan and across the country.

Don’t Let Hazing Destroy Your Child’s Future

Hazing isn’t just a “rite of passage” – it’s dangerous, illegal, and can cause permanent damage. If your child has been hazed at a Michigan university, they deserve justice and compensation.

At Attorney 911, we’re fighting to change the culture of hazing in Greek organizations. With your help, we can hold these institutions accountable and protect future students from the same abuse.

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