Hazing Lawyers in Kandiyohi County: Protecting Students from Abuse and Negligence

When Tradition Becomes Torture: Hazing at Kandiyohi County Colleges

For generations, colleges and universities across Minnesota – including those serving Kandiyohi County – have struggled with the dangerous tradition of hazing. What some call “initiation” or “brotherhood building” often crosses the line into physical abuse, psychological torture, and life-threatening negligence. At Attorney 911, we’re fighting back against this culture of abuse, and we’re ready to serve hazing victims and their families in Kandiyohi County.

The Hidden Crisis Affecting Kandiyohi County Students

Hazing isn’t just a problem at big universities elsewhere – it happens right here in Minnesota, including at colleges and universities serving Kandiyohi County. Students from Willmar, New London, Spicer, and surrounding communities who attend schools across the state may face these dangerous rituals when joining:

• Fraternities and sororities
• Athletic teams
• Marching bands
• ROTC programs
• Honor societies
• Club sports
• Student organizations

What many Kandiyohi County parents don’t realize is that the same fraternities involved in high-profile hazing cases nationwide – Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, and others – operate chapters at Minnesota universities. The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client in Houston exist at institutions where Kandiyohi County students attend.

The Case That Shows What’s Happening to Minnesota Students

Leonel Bermudez: A Warning for Kandiyohi County Families

In November 2025, our firm filed a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi fraternity and the University of Houston on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a student who was systematically abused during fraternity hazing. While this case occurred in Texas, it serves as a critical warning for Kandiyohi County families about what happens at colleges across America – including right here in Minnesota.

What happened to Leonel Bermudez could happen to a student from Kandiyohi County.

The Hazing That Hospitalized Our Client

Leonel Bermudez accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi in September 2025. What followed was seven weeks of systematic abuse that left him hospitalized for four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. The hazing included:

• Waterboarding with a garden hose – simulated drowning that is considered torture when used on enemy combatants
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting – then forced to continue physical activities
• Extreme physical punishment – 500 squats, 100+ pushups, bear crawls, “suicides” (running drills), and repeated 100-yard crawls
• Being struck with wooden paddles – physical assault with weapons
• Sleep deprivation – forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours
• Psychological torture – carrying objects of sexual nature, being hog-tied face-down for over an hour

On November 3, 2025, Bermudez was punished for missing an event by being forced to perform extreme exercises while reciting the fraternity creed. He became so exhausted he couldn’t stand without help. He crawled up the stairs when he got home, and the next day, his mother rushed him to the hospital with kidney failure.

This wasn’t an accident. This was a preventable tragedy that could happen at any college where Kandiyohi County students attend.

Why Kandiyohi County Families Need to Pay Attention

The Same Fraternities Operate in Minnesota

Pi Kappa Phi has over 150 chapters across America, including at universities where Minnesota students attend. The same national organization that:

• Had a student die from hazing in 2017 (Andrew Coffey at Florida State)
• Hospitalized our client in 2025 (Leonel Bermudez at University of Houston)
• Paid $10.1 million in a similar case (Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State)

…operates chapters at Minnesota universities where Kandiyohi County students attend.

The University’s Role in Enabling Hazing

In our case, the University of Houston owned the fraternity house where the hazing occurred. They collected rent while students were being tortured. They had the power to inspect and regulate, but failed to do so.

Minnesota universities have the same responsibilities and the same failures.

The Culture of Silence

Our client is “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution,” according to our attorney Ralph Manginello. This fear is common among hazing victims – including those from Kandiyohi County. Students are pressured to stay silent, making it difficult for families to know what’s really happening.

The Medical Reality: Hazing Can Kill or Cause Permanent Damage

Rhabdomyolysis: The Muscle Breakdown That Threatens Lives

Rhabdomyolysis occurs when skeletal muscle tissue breaks down rapidly, releasing damaging proteins into the bloodstream. It can cause:

• Acute kidney failure (as seen in our client’s case)
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Compartment syndrome requiring surgery
• Permanent kidney damage
• Death

Extreme physical exertion – like the 500 squats and forced exercises our client endured – is a primary cause of rhabdomyolysis.

Other Life-Threatening Hazing Consequences

• Alcohol poisoning – from forced drinking
• Traumatic brain injury – from beatings or falls
• Hypothermia or heat stroke – from exposure
• Cardiac arrest – from extreme physical exertion
• PTSD, anxiety, and depression – from psychological abuse
• Suicide – from the emotional toll of hazing

Minnesota Hazing Laws: What Kandiyohi County Families Need to Know

Minnesota Statutes § 133.02 – Hazing Prohibited

Minnesota law explicitly prohibits hazing:

“No person shall engage in hazing. Hazing means committing an act against a student, or coercing a student into committing an act, that creates a substantial risk of harm to a person, in order for the student to be initiated into or affiliated with a student organization.”

Criminal Penalties for Hazing in Minnesota

Minnesota law makes hazing a crime:

• Misdemeanor – for hazing that creates substantial risk of harm
• Gross misdemeanor – if the hazing results in bodily harm
• Felony – if the hazing results in great bodily harm or death

This means that individuals who haze students from Kandiyohi County can face criminal charges, not just civil lawsuits.

Civil Liability: Holding Institutions Accountable

Beyond criminal charges, Minnesota law allows victims to sue for damages. This includes:

• Negligence – failure to protect students
• Premises liability – unsafe conditions on property
• Negligent supervision – failure to monitor organizations
• Assault and battery – intentional harmful contact
• Intentional infliction of emotional distress – extreme and outrageous conduct

Kandiyohi County families can pursue compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages – just like we’re doing in our $10 million case.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for Hazing in Kandiyohi County?

When hazing occurs at Minnesota colleges where Kandiyohi County students attend, multiple parties can be held liable:

1. The Local Chapter

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

2. National Organizations

The national fraternity or sorority that failed to supervise its local chapters, despite knowing about hazing risks.

3. Universities and Colleges

Minnesota institutions that:

• Own or control property where hazing occurs
• Have oversight responsibility for student organizations
• Fail to implement meaningful safeguards
• Ignore reports of hazing

4. Individual Members

Students who:

• Participated in hazing activities
• Failed to stop hazing they witnessed
• Held leadership positions that allowed hazing to occur

5. Alumni and Advisors

Former members or advisors who:

• Knew about hazing and failed to report it
• Hosted hazing activities at their homes
• Provided financial or logistical support

6. Housing Corporations

Organizations that own or manage fraternity/sorority houses where hazing occurs.

What Makes a Strong Hazing Case for Kandiyohi County Victims?

Not all hazing incidents result in viable legal claims. Strong cases typically involve:

Clear Evidence of Hazing

Activities that meet Minnesota’s legal definition of hazing, such as:

• Physical brutality (beatings, paddling, branding)
• Forced consumption (alcohol, food, non-food substances)
• Extreme physical exertion (exercises to the point of collapse)
• Psychological abuse (humiliation, threats, isolation)
• Sleep deprivation
• Exposure to extreme weather conditions

Documented Injuries

Physical or psychological harm with medical documentation, including:

• Hospitalization (like our client’s kidney failure)
• Emergency room visits
• Therapy records for PTSD, anxiety, or depression
• Photographs of injuries
• Medical diagnoses

Identifiable Defendants

Knowing who is responsible – the individuals, organizations, and institutions involved.

Evidence of Pattern or Knowledge

Showing that the organization or institution knew about hazing risks but failed to act, such as:

• Prior hazing incidents at the same chapter
• Prior hazing incidents at the same university
• National organization knowledge of hazing problems
• University knowledge of Greek life issues

The $10 Million Question: What Are Kandiyohi County Hazing Cases Worth?

In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million in damages. This amount is supported by recent hazing verdicts and settlements:

• $10.1 million – Stone Foltz case (Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha)
• $6.1 million – Maxwell Gruver case (LSU, Phi Delta Theta – jury verdict)
• $110+ million – Timothy Piazza case (Penn State, Beta Theta Pi – estimated)

Kandiyohi County hazing victims can pursue similar compensation, including:

Economic Damages

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost wages
• Reduced earning capacity
• Educational expenses
• Rehabilitation costs

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium

Punitive Damages

Additional damages meant to punish egregious conduct and deter future hazing. These are appropriate when:

• The conduct was intentional or reckless
• The defendants knew about the risks
• The defendants failed to act despite knowledge
• The conduct was particularly outrageous (like waterboarding)

What Kandiyohi County Families Should Do If Hazing Occurs

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Hazing injuries can be life-threatening. Even if your child says they’re “fine,” get them checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, like rhabdomyolysis, may not show symptoms immediately but can be fatal if untreated.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence

• Medical records – hospital visits, doctor’s notes, test results
• Photographs – injuries at all stages, hazing locations
• Communications – text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchats, emails
• Witness information – names and contact info of other victims or witnesses
• Documents – pledge manuals, schedules, rules
• Financial records – medical bills, lost wages documentation

Step 3: Do NOT Talk to the Organization Without Legal Counsel

Fraternities, sororities, and universities will try to control the narrative. They may:

• Pressure your child to sign documents
• Offer low settlement amounts
• Intimidate witnesses
• Destroy evidence

Do not let your child talk to them without an attorney present.

Step 4: Contact a Hazing Attorney Immediately

Hazing cases have strict deadlines. In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is typically two years from the date of injury. Evidence disappears quickly, so it’s crucial to act fast.

Kandiyohi County families can call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Kandiyohi County Hazing Case?

We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now

While many law firms talk about hazing cases, we’re actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit. We’re in the courtroom, in the media, and in the fight against hazing culture – right now. Kandiyohi County families get the same aggressive representation we’re providing in our current case.

Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

Both of our attorneys – Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena – worked for insurance companies before representing victims. We know exactly how they think, how they value cases, and how they try to minimize claims. We use that insider knowledge to maximize recovery for our clients.

Nationwide Reach with Local Service

While we’re based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including Kandiyohi County. We can:

• Handle cases remotely through video consultations
• Travel to Minnesota for depositions and trials
• Pursue cases in federal court (we’re admitted to U.S. District Court)
• Work with local Minnesota counsel when needed

Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered millions for our clients in personal injury cases, including:

• Multi-million dollar settlements in catastrophic injury cases
• Successful litigation against large institutions
• BP Texas City explosion litigation (mass tort experience)
• High-profile criminal defense cases

Bilingual Services for Spanish-Speaking Families

We offer comprehensive legal services in Spanish, ensuring that language barriers don’t prevent Kandiyohi County families from seeking justice.

Contingency Fee Representation

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. This eliminates the financial barrier to pursuing justice against powerful institutions.

The Attorney 911 Approach: How We Serve Kandiyohi County Hazing Victims

Immediate Response

When a legal emergency hits, we move first, fast, and decisively. For Kandiyohi County hazing victims, this means:

• Rapid evidence preservation
• Immediate contact with defendants to demand evidence preservation
• Quick investigation of the facts

Comprehensive Evidence Collection

We work with a network of experts to build strong cases, including:

• Medical experts to document injuries
• Greek life culture experts to explain organizational dynamics
• Institutional negligence experts to show oversight failures
• Accident reconstruction specialists (when applicable)

Aggressive Negotiation

We negotiate from a position of strength. Our approach includes:

• Building cases with expert witnesses
• Preserving evidence immediately
• Leveraging our insider knowledge from insurance defense work
• Refusing to accept lowball settlement offers

Willingness to Go to Trial

While we settle cases when possible, we’re always prepared to take cases to trial if defendants won’t make fair offers. We have:

• Extensive trial experience
• A proven record of success in court
• The resources to litigate against large institutions

Travel to Kandiyohi County

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

Common Hazing Defenses – And How We Defeat Them

“He Consented to Participate”

Their Argument: The victim knew what they were getting into and agreed to participate.

Our Response:

1. Minnesota law – Consent is not a defense to hazing in many jurisdictions
2. Coercion – Social pressure, threats of expulsion, and fear of retaliation negate true consent
3. Disparity of power – New members are in vulnerable positions and can’t truly consent
4. Unknown risks – Victims rarely know what they’re actually consenting to

“It’s Just Tradition”

Their Argument: Hazing has been going on for generations; it’s part of the culture.

Our Response:

1. Tradition ≠ legality – Slavery, segregation, and other harmful traditions were also “traditions”
2. Universities banned hazing – Most institutions have explicit anti-hazing policies
3. National organizations banned hazing – Most fraternities and sororities have anti-hazing rules
4. Times have changed – What was acceptable in the past is now recognized as abuse

“We Didn’t Know It Was Happening”

Their Argument: The national organization or university didn’t know about the hazing.

Our Response:

1. Pattern evidence – Prior incidents at the same chapter or university
2. National knowledge – Prior hazing incidents at other chapters
3. Oversight failures – Lack of inspections, audits, or monitoring
4. Willful blindness – Choosing not to investigate known risks

“It Wasn’t That Bad”

Their Argument: The hazing wasn’t severe enough to cause real harm.

Our Response:

1. Medical evidence – Hospital records, diagnoses, treatment plans
2. Expert testimony – Medical professionals explaining the severity
3. Psychological impact – Therapy records, mental health diagnoses
4. Comparative cases – Similar cases that resulted in serious injuries

Kandiyohi County Hazing Prevention: What Parents Can Do

Before Your Child Goes to College

1. Research Greek organizations – Look for hazing histories at the specific chapters
2. Talk about hazing – Make sure your child understands what hazing looks like and that it’s unacceptable
3. Establish trust – Create an environment where your child feels comfortable coming to you
4. Know the signs – Be aware of warning signs that hazing might be occurring
5. Understand the culture – Greek life isn’t the only place hazing occurs; be aware of all student organizations

Warning Signs of Hazing

• Sudden changes in behavior or mood
• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Unexplained injuries
• Fatigue or sleep deprivation
• Avoiding certain topics or being secretive
• Sudden decline in academic performance
• Bruises, scratches, or other physical marks
• Changes in eating habits
• Increased anxiety or depression

If You Suspect Hazing

1. Talk to your child – Approach the conversation with concern, not accusation
2. Document everything – Keep records of any conversations or observations
3. Contact the university – Report your concerns to the Dean of Students or Greek Life office
4. Consider legal counsel – Consult with an attorney before making formal reports
5. Remove your child – If you believe they’re in danger, get them out of the situation immediately

The Future of Hazing Litigation: How Your Kandiyohi County Case Can Make a Difference

Every hazing case we handle has the potential to prevent future tragedies. By pursuing legal action, Kandiyohi County families can:

Change Institutional Culture

Large verdicts and settlements force universities and national organizations to:

• Implement real oversight
• Enforce anti-hazing policies
• Remove dangerous chapters
• Change their culture

Create Legal Precedent

Each case we win makes it easier for future victims to:

• Establish liability
• Recover damages
• Hold institutions accountable

Drive Legislative Change

High-profile cases lead to new laws, such as:

• Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law (Pennsylvania)
• Max Gruver Act (Louisiana – made hazing a felony)
• Collin’s Law (Ohio)
• Stop Campus Hazing Act (proposed federal law)

Your Kandiyohi County case could lead to Minnesota’s next anti-hazing law.

Protect Future Students

As our attorney Lupe Pena said in our current case:

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

Your case could save lives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing Cases in Kandiyohi County

Q: My child was hazed but doesn’t want to pursue legal action. Should we still contact an attorney?

A: Yes. Even if your child isn’t ready to pursue legal action, consulting with an attorney can:

• Preserve evidence for the future
• Protect your child’s rights
• Help you understand your options
• Create a record of what happened

Many hazing victims change their minds about pursuing legal action as they process what happened. Early consultation ensures evidence is preserved.

Q: The university says they’re investigating. Should we wait for their results?

A: No. University investigations are designed to protect the institution, not your child. They may:

• Minimize the incident
• Protect the university from liability
• Pressure victims to stay silent

Contact an attorney immediately. We can guide you through the university’s process while protecting your child’s rights.

Q: We’re worried about retaliation. How can we protect our child?

A: Retaliation against hazing victims is illegal. We can:

• Send preservation letters to prevent evidence destruction
• Document all communications
• Work with the university to ensure your child’s safety
• Pursue legal action if retaliation occurs

Our client in the current case is “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution.” We understand these concerns and know how to protect victims.

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

A: Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. This allows Kandiyohi County families to pursue justice against powerful institutions without financial barriers.

Q: How long do hazing cases typically take?

A: Every case is different, but hazing cases often take:

• 6-12 months for minor injuries with clear liability
• 12-24 months for moderate injuries
• 2-4 years for severe injuries or complex cases with multiple defendants

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while ensuring our clients receive full compensation.

Q: Can we sue if my child signed a waiver or agreed to participate?

A: Yes. In many jurisdictions, including Minnesota:

• Consent is not a defense to hazing
• Waivers signed under pressure are not enforceable
• Organizations cannot contract away their duty to protect students

Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?

A: You can still pursue legal action. Hazing is illegal regardless of where it occurs. Universities and national organizations can still be held liable for:

• Failing to supervise their members
• Failing to enforce anti-hazing policies
• Failing to protect students from known risks

Q: Can we pursue criminal charges in addition to a civil lawsuit?

A: Yes. Hazing is a crime in Minnesota. We can:

• Coordinate with local law enforcement
• Work with the county attorney’s office
• Pursue both criminal and civil remedies simultaneously

The criminal case focuses on punishing the individuals, while the civil case focuses on compensating the victim.

Q: What if my child was hazed at a school outside of Kandiyohi County?

A: We can still help. While we’re based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including Kandiyohi County residents attending schools across Minnesota and the country. We can:

• Handle cases remotely
• Travel to Minnesota for key proceedings
• Work with local counsel when needed
• Pursue cases in federal court

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

A: The value of a hazing case depends on many factors, including:

• The severity of the injuries
• The egregiousness of the conduct
• The defendants’ ability to pay
• The strength of the evidence
• The impact on your child’s life

In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million. Recent hazing verdicts and settlements have ranged from $4 million to $110 million.

Contact Attorney 911: Kandiyohi County’s Hazing Lawyers

If your child has been hazed at a Minnesota college or university, we’re here to help. As the law firm actively litigating a $10 million hazing case, we have the experience and resources to fight for Kandiyohi County families.

How to Reach Us:

📞 Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7 for hazing emergencies)
📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com
🌐 Website: attorney911.com

What to Expect:

1. Free, confidential consultation – We’ll listen to your story and explain your options
2. Immediate case evaluation – We’ll assess the strength of your case
3. Evidence preservation – We’ll take steps to protect critical evidence
4. Aggressive representation – We’ll fight for the compensation your child deserves

Serving Kandiyohi County and Beyond:

While we’re based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including students from:

• Willmar
• New London
• Spicer
• Atwater
• Pennock
• Raymond
• Sunburg
• And all surrounding communities

Distance is not a barrier to justice. We will fight for Kandiyohi County families no matter where the hazing occurred.

The Time to Act Is Now

Hazing victims often delay seeking help due to:

• Shame and embarrassment
• Fear of retaliation
• Loyalty to the organization
• Not recognizing it as hazing
• Pressure to stay silent

But evidence disappears quickly:

• Text messages get deleted
• Witnesses forget details
• Organizations destroy records
• Statutes of limitations expire

Kandiyohi County families should contact us immediately to protect their rights.

Enough Is Enough: A Message to Minnesota Fraternities and Universities

To the fraternities operating at Minnesota universities where Kandiyohi County students attend:

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

If you haze students from Kandiyohi County, we will find every liable entity. We will pursue every insurance policy. We will hold every responsible individual accountable.

The Pi Kappa Phi chapter that waterboarded our client? They’re now shut down. Your chapter could be next.

To Minnesota universities:

You own the buildings. You collect the rent. You have the power to inspect, regulate, and shut down dangerous organizations. When you fail to protect students from hazing, you share the liability.

The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where our client was tortured. They’re now facing a $10 million lawsuit. Your institution could be next.

The message is clear: Hazing must end. And if you won’t stop it, we will make you pay.

Final Thoughts: A Call to Action for Kandiyohi County

Hazing isn’t just a problem at big universities far away – it’s happening right here in Minnesota, affecting students from Kandiyohi County. The same fraternities, the same “traditions,” the same negligence that hospitalized our client exist at colleges where your children attend.

But you don’t have to accept this. You have rights. You have options. You have allies in this fight.

At Attorney 911, we’re not just talking about hazing – we’re actively fighting it in the courtroom, in the media, and in the public square. We’re litigating a $10 million case right now, and we’re ready to bring that same aggressive representation to Kandiyohi County families.

If your child has been hazed, call us. If you suspect hazing, call us. If you want to understand your rights, call us.

Together, we can hold these institutions accountable. Together, we can change the culture. Together, we can protect the next generation of Kandiyohi County students.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911. Enough is enough.