Hazing Lawyers for Webster County Families | Attorney 911

When “Tradition” Becomes Torture: Webster County Parents, Your Child’s Safety Should Never Be a Gamble

Every fall, Webster County families send their children off to college with hope and pride. Parents trust that universities will keep their children safe. Students trust that joining a fraternity or sorority will bring friendship and opportunity. But what happens when that trust is shattered by systematic abuse disguised as “tradition”?

At Attorney 911, we’re currently fighting a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for what happened to Leonel Bermudez – a young man who wasn’t even enrolled at the university yet when he was subjected to waterboarding, forced to do 500 squats until his muscles broke down, and hospitalized with kidney failure. This didn’t happen in some distant state. It happened right here in Texas. And it could happen to your child at universities near Webster County.

The Hazing Crisis Hitting Close to Home

Webster County families need to understand: the same fraternities operating near you have paid millions in settlements for hazing deaths and injuries nationwide. The same national organizations that oversee Webster County chapters knew about these incidents and failed to stop them. The same universities near Webster County have the power to prevent hazing – and the same legal responsibility when they don’t.

What Webster County Parents Need to Know About Hazing

Hazing isn’t harmless “initiation.” It’s abuse. It’s assault. It’s sometimes torture. And it’s happening at universities near Webster County right now. Consider these facts:

1. 55% of students in Greek organizations experience hazing (National Study on Student Hazing)
2. Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every year in the United States (Hank Nuwer’s Hazing Database)
3. 95% of students who are hazed don’t report it (National Collaborative for Hazing Research and Prevention)
4. Hazing occurs in fraternities, sororities, sports teams, marching bands, ROTC, and other organizations – not just Greek life

The most dangerous misconception Webster County parents have is “it won’t happen to my child.” But the statistics show it happens to someone’s child every year. And when it does, the institutions responsible will do everything they can to protect themselves – not your child.

The UH Case: A Warning for Webster County Families

Right now, we’re representing Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. What happened to him should be a wake-up call for every Webster County family with a child in college or heading to college soon.

What Happened to Leonel Bermudez

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

• Waterboarding with a garden hose – simulated drowning, a form of torture
• Forced to do 500 squats and 100+ pushups – until he collapsed and couldn’t stand
• Struck with wooden paddles – physical assault with weapons
• Forced to eat milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting – then forced to keep running
• Forced to lie in vomit-soaked grass – humiliation and health risk
• Forced to strip to underwear in cold weather – exposure and degradation
• Another pledge hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth – for over an hour
• A pledge lost consciousness during a forced workout – fraternity members had to elevate his legs

When Leonel finally made it home after one particularly brutal session, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was so sore he couldn’t move. The day after that was worse. His mother rushed him to the hospital where he was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure. He spent four days fighting for his life.

Why This Case Matters to Webster County Families

1. Same Fraternities Operate Near Webster County

   • Pi Kappa Phi has chapters at universities across Texas
   • The same national organization that failed to protect Leonel oversees chapters near Webster County
   • Other major fraternities like Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Kappa Sigma, and Sigma Chi have similar histories

2. Same Universities Face Same Liability

   • UH owned the fraternity house where the torture occurred
   • Universities near Webster County own or control Greek housing
   • They have the same power – and same responsibility – to stop hazing

3. Same National Organizations Knew About the Risks

   • Pi Kappa Phi had a student die from hazing in 2017 (Andrew Coffey at FSU)
   • They knew about “a hazing crisis” and did nothing
   • Other national fraternities have similar track records

4. Same Legal Rights Apply to Webster County Victims

   • Texas law protects all students from hazing
   • Consent is NOT a defense under Texas Education Code § 37.154
   • Universities and fraternities can be held liable for millions

What Webster County Families Can Do Right Now

Know the Warning Signs of Hazing

Webster County parents should watch for these red flags that your child might be experiencing hazing:

• Sudden changes in behavior – withdrawal, anxiety, depression
• Unexplained injuries – bruises, sprains, exhaustion
• Secretive about activities – won’t discuss what they’re doing with the group
• Disappearing for long periods – especially late at night
• Wearing unusual clothing – matching outfits, carrying odd items
• Sleep deprivation – dark circles under eyes, falling asleep in class
• Decline in academic performance – missing classes, failing grades
• Talk of “earning” membership – mentions of tests, challenges, or “proving themselves”
• Sudden wealth or poverty – may be forced to pay for things or have money taken
• Fear of retribution – won’t name names or discuss details

If you notice these signs, ask direct questions. And if your child confirms hazing is happening, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

Understand Your Legal Rights

Texas law is clear: hazing is illegal, and consent is not a defense. Under Texas Education Code § 37.151, hazing includes:

• Physical brutality (beating, striking, paddling)
• Forced consumption of food, alcohol, or drugs
• Sleep deprivation
• Exposure to the elements
• Calisthenics that create unreasonable risk
• Any activity that subjects a student to unreasonable risk of harm

Important for Webster County families: The law applies whether the hazing occurs on or off campus, and whether your child is a student at that university or not (like Leonel, who wasn’t enrolled at UH yet).

Take Immediate Action If Hazing Occurs

If you suspect your Webster County child has been hazed:

1. Get medical attention immediately – hazing injuries can be life-threatening
2. Preserve all evidence – texts, photos, videos, social media posts
3. Do NOT confront the organization directly – they’ll destroy evidence and coordinate stories
4. Do NOT sign anything – fraternities/sororities may try to get you to waive rights
5. Do NOT post on social media – anything you post can be used against you
6. Call Attorney 911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 – time is critical

Why Webster County Families Choose Attorney 911

When hazing happens, Webster County families need attorneys who:

✅ Are fighting this battle right now – we currently represent Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit
✅ Have insider knowledge – both our attorneys are former insurance defense lawyers who know how the other side works
✅ Understand the culture – we know how fraternities operate and how to hold them accountable
✅ Will travel to Webster County – we come to you for depositions, meetings, and trials
✅ Offer remote consultations – Webster County families can meet with us via video
✅ Work on contingency – $0 upfront; we only get paid if you win
✅ Have federal court authority – we can pursue cases nationwide
✅ Are bilingual – se habla español; we serve all Webster County families
✅ Have a proven track record – we’ve won millions for injury victims

Our Unique Advantages for Webster County Hazing Victims

1. We Know How Insurance Companies Think
Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked for insurance defense firms before switching sides to represent victims. We know exactly how fraternities and universities will try to minimize your claim – because we used to help them do it.

2. We’re Currently Litigating a Hazing Case
While other firms talk about hazing cases, we’re actively fighting one right now. We know the latest strategies, the current case law, and how to maximize your recovery.

3. We Have Federal Court Authority
Hazing cases often involve national fraternities headquartered in other states. Our federal court admission allows us to pursue these organizations no matter where they’re based.

4. We’re Not Afraid to Go to Trial
Many personal injury firms settle cheaply to avoid court. We prepare every case for trial, which means we negotiate from strength and get better settlements for our clients.

5. We Understand the Medical Consequences
Rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, traumatic brain injuries – we know how to document these injuries and prove their long-term impact on your child’s life.

6. We Protect Our Clients
Our client Leonel Bermudez is fearful of retribution for speaking out. We take client protection seriously and will ensure your child’s safety throughout the legal process.

What Webster County Families Can Recover

If your child has been hazed, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses – hospital bills, rehabilitation, future treatment
• Lost wages – if your child missed work or internships
• Pain and suffering – physical and emotional trauma
• Mental anguish – PTSD, anxiety, depression
• Educational disruption – tuition, lost scholarships, academic impact
• Punitive damages – to punish egregious conduct and deter future hazing
• Wrongful death damages – if hazing results in death

In recent hazing cases, families have recovered:

• $10.1 million (Stone Foltz case)
• $6.1 million (Maxwell Gruver case)
• $110+ million (Timothy Piazza case)

The Legal Process for Webster County Families

1. Free Consultation – Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a confidential case evaluation
2. Evidence Preservation – We’ll send preservation letters to all defendants
3. Investigation – Gather medical records, witness statements, communications
4. Demand Package – Compile all damages and send demand to defendants
5. Negotiation – We’ll negotiate aggressively for fair compensation
6. Litigation – If necessary, we’ll file a lawsuit and prepare for trial
7. Resolution – Settlement or jury verdict

Throughout the process, we keep Webster County families informed and involved. You’ll never be left wondering what’s happening with your case.

Common Defenses – And Why They Fail

Fraternities and universities will try to avoid responsibility by claiming:

1. “He consented to participate”

   • Texas law explicitly says consent is NOT a defense (Texas Education Code § 37.154)
   • Peer pressure, threats of expulsion, and social coercion negate true consent

2. “It was just tradition”

   • Tradition doesn’t justify illegal activity
   • If the tradition involves assault, battery, or torture, it’s still illegal

3. “The university didn’t know”

   • Universities have a duty to supervise student organizations
   • If they own the property where hazing occurs, they’re responsible

4. “It was just a few bad apples”

   • When hazing is systematic, the entire organization is liable
   • National organizations are responsible for their chapters

5. “He should have just left”

   • Fear of retaliation, social ostracism, and loyalty to the group make leaving difficult
   • The law doesn’t require victims to risk their safety

How to Protect Your Webster County Child

Before College

1. Research the Greek organizations – look for past hazing incidents
2. Talk openly about hazing – make sure your child knows it’s not acceptable
3. Establish an open-door policy – encourage your child to tell you about any concerns
4. Research university policies – what are their hazing prevention measures?
5. Consider alternatives – many great college experiences don’t involve Greek life

During College

1. Stay in regular contact – especially during pledge periods
2. Watch for warning signs – changes in behavior, injuries, secrecy
3. Encourage reporting – make sure your child knows how to report hazing
4. Document everything – if you suspect hazing, start preserving evidence
5. Know your rights – hazing is illegal, and universities must investigate

Our Commitment to Webster County

At Attorney 911, we’re committed to serving Webster County families affected by hazing. We understand that Webster County has its own unique community values and concerns. Our approach includes:

• Cultural sensitivity – we respect Webster County’s traditions and values
• Community awareness – we work with local schools and organizations to prevent hazing
• Accessible representation – we offer remote consultations and travel to Webster County
• Confidential handling – we protect your family’s privacy
• Compassionate advocacy – we treat your child like our own family

Frequently Asked Questions from Webster County Parents

Q: My child is being hazed at a university near Webster County. What should I do first?

A: First, ensure your child’s safety and get medical attention if needed. Then preserve all evidence (texts, photos, videos) and call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Time is critical – evidence disappears quickly, and statutes of limitations apply.

Q: The fraternity says my child “consented” to the activities. Does that matter?

A: No. Texas 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: The university says they didn’t know about the hazing. Are they still responsible?

A: Yes. Universities have a duty to supervise student organizations, especially when they own or control the property where activities occur. If they had the power to prevent hazing and failed to do so, they can be held liable.

Q: My child is afraid of retaliation if we speak out. What can you do to protect them?

A: We take client protection very seriously. We can:

• File under seal to protect identities
• Use pseudonyms in court documents
• Work with universities to ensure safety
• Pursue claims against individuals who retaliate
• Provide security recommendations

Q: How much will this cost our family? We’re already dealing with medical bills.

A: We work on a contingency fee basis. That means:

• $0 upfront cost
• $0 out of pocket
• We only get paid if we win your case
• Our fee comes out of the settlement or verdict

Q: We’re in Webster County, and you’re in Houston. How can you represent us?

A: We serve hazing victims nationwide, including Webster County. We offer:

• Video consultations
• Phone consultations
• Travel to Webster County for meetings and depositions
• Remote case management
• Federal court authority to pursue cases anywhere

Q: How long does a hazing lawsuit take?

A: Every case is different, but hazing cases typically take 12-36 months from filing to resolution. Factors that affect timeline include:

• Severity of injuries
• Number of defendants
• Willingness to settle
• Court schedules

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

A: We can still represent you. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) allow us to pursue cases nationwide. We’ve handled cases in multiple states and can work with local counsel if needed.

Q: The fraternity says this was just “horseplay” or “tradition.” Is that a valid defense?

A: No. If the activities involved physical brutality, forced consumption, sleep deprivation, or any activity that created unreasonable risk, it’s hazing under Texas law – regardless of what they call it. Waterboarding, forced exercise to exhaustion, and striking with paddles are not “tradition” – they’re abuse.

Q: My child is an international student. Does that affect our rights?

A: No. All students have the same rights under Texas law, regardless of citizenship status. We have bilingual staff and can assist with language barriers. Your immigration status does not affect your right to pursue a hazing claim.

Q: What if the hazing didn’t result in physical injuries?

A: Psychological injuries are just as valid. PTSD, anxiety, depression, and emotional distress are all compensable. We work with mental health professionals to document the full impact of hazing on your child’s life.

The Time to Act Is Now

Webster County families, the clock is ticking. Evidence disappears quickly. Witnesses forget. Statutes of limitations run out. And most importantly, other students remain at risk until someone stands up.

If your child has been hazed at any university – whether in Texas or elsewhere – call Attorney 911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation.

Remember Leonel Bermudez’s Story

Leonel wasn’t even a UH student yet when Pi Kappa Phi hazed him. He was waterboarded. He was forced to do 500 squats until he collapsed. He spent four days in the hospital with kidney failure. And when he finally spoke out, he was afraid of retribution.

But he did speak out. And now we’re fighting for him. And we’ll fight for your Webster County family too.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today. The consultation is free. The call is confidential. And the time to act is now.

Attorney 911 – Legal Emergency Lawyers™
Serving Webster County and all of Texas
1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com | attorney911.com

We don’t just talk about hazing cases. We’re fighting one right now. And we’ll fight for Webster County families with the same determination.