🛡️ Hazing Victims in Lake County, Montana: Your Legal Rights & How to Fight Back
Attorney 911 — Legal Emergency Lawyers™
Serving Lake County hazing victims from Houston, Austin & Beaumont
📞 Immediate Help for Lake County Families: 1-888-ATTY-911
The Hazing Crisis in Lake County: What Local Families Need to Know
Lake County is home to strong communities, hardworking families, and students who deserve safe educational environments. But behind the scenic beauty and tight-knit culture lies a dangerous reality: hazing is happening at institutions near Lake County, and it’s putting our children at risk.
The same national fraternities that hospitalized a student in Houston with kidney failure in 2025 have active chapters at universities near Lake County. The same negligence that allowed waterboarding, forced eating, and extreme physical abuse at the University of Houston exists right here in our region.
This isn’t happening “somewhere else.” It’s happening near Lake County. And Attorney 911 is fighting back.
🚨 What Lake County Families Should Know About Hazing
1. Hazing is NOT “Tradition” — It’s Abuse
Hazing is often dismissed as “tradition” or “building brotherhood.” But what’s really happening is:
- Physical abuse — beatings, forced exercise to exhaustion, exposure to extreme weather
- Psychological torture — humiliation, degradation, threats of social exclusion
- Forced consumption — alcohol, food, or other substances to the point of vomiting or worse
- Sexual humiliation — forced nudity, carrying sexual objects, sexual assault
- Sleep deprivation — forced late-night activities that impact health and safety
In 2025, a Pi Kappa Phi fraternity at the University of Houston waterboarded a pledge with a garden hose. They forced him to do 500 squats until his muscles broke down, causing kidney failure. He was hospitalized for four days.
This same fraternity has chapters at universities near Lake County.
2. Hazing Can Cause Permanent Damage — Or Death
Hazing doesn’t just leave emotional scars. It can cause:
| Injury | What It Means | Lake County Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Rhabdomyolysis | Muscle breakdown that damages kidneys | Can lead to kidney failure, dialysis, or transplant |
| Acute Kidney Failure | Kidneys stop filtering waste | Life-threatening; requires hospitalization |
| Alcohol Poisoning | Overdose from forced drinking | Can cause coma or death |
| Traumatic Brain Injury | From beatings or falls | Permanent cognitive impairment |
| PTSD, Anxiety, Depression | Psychological trauma | Long-term therapy, medication, disability |
| Death | Wrongful death | Families left grieving a preventable loss |
In the Houston case, the victim’s mother rushed him to the hospital after he passed brown urine — a classic sign of rhabdomyolysis. He couldn’t walk and spent four days in the hospital fighting for his life.
This could happen to a Lake County student.
3. The Same Fraternities Operate Near Lake County
The fraternity that hospitalized our client — Pi Kappa Phi — has 150+ chapters across America, including at universities near Lake County.
Other dangerous fraternities with documented hazing histories also operate in our region:
| Fraternity | Notable Hazing Cases | Near Lake County? |
|---|---|---|
| Pi Kappa Alpha | Stone Foltz (2021) — $10.1M settlement | Yes |
| Phi Delta Theta | Max Gruver (2017) — $6.1M verdict | Yes |
| Beta Theta Pi | Timothy Piazza (2017) — $110M+ settlement | Yes |
| Sigma Alpha Epsilon | Multiple deaths and injuries | Yes |
| Pi Kappa Phi | Andrew Coffey (2017), Leonel Bermudez (2025) | Yes |
These aren’t just names on a list. These are organizations with active chapters near Lake County that have already killed or hospitalized students.
4. Universities Near Lake County Are Complicit
Universities have the power to stop hazing. They can:
- Inspect fraternity houses
- Suspend or expel chapters
- Implement real oversight
- Enforce anti-hazing policies
But they often don’t — until it’s too late.
In the Houston case:
- The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where hazing occurred
- They had a prior hazing incident in 2017 that hospitalized a student
- They did nothing meaningful to prevent it from happening again
- They are now being sued for $10 million
Universities near Lake County face the same liability when they fail to protect students.
5. Consent Is NOT a Defense in Montana
When fraternities argue that “the victim agreed to participate,” they’re lying. Montana law is clear:
Consent is not a defense to hazing.
Even if a student “agrees” to participate, the law still holds the organization responsible for any harm caused.
This means Lake County victims cannot be blamed for the abuse they suffered.
⚖️ Your Legal Rights as a Lake County Hazing Victim
If you or your child was hazed at a university near Lake County, you have legal rights. You may be entitled to compensation for:
Economic Damages
- Medical bills — hospital stays, doctor visits, therapy, future treatment
- Lost wages — time missed from work during recovery
- Educational disruption — tuition refunds, academic delays, scholarship loss
- Future earning capacity — if injuries impact career potential
Non-Economic Damages
- Physical pain and suffering — the agony of injuries and recovery
- Mental anguish — PTSD, anxiety, depression, fear of retribution
- Emotional distress — humiliation, shame, loss of trust
- Loss of enjoyment of life — inability to participate in normal activities
Punitive Damages
- Punishment for egregious conduct — when hazing is particularly cruel or reckless
- Deterrence for other organizations — to prevent future hazing
In the Houston case, we’re seeking $10 million for our client’s injuries. Lake County victims deserve the same aggressive representation.
🏢 Who Can Be Held Liable for Lake County Hazing?
Hazing cases aren’t just about suing individual students. We pursue everyone who enabled the abuse:
| Defendant | Why They’re Liable | Lake County Application |
|---|---|---|
| Local Chapter | Directly organized and conducted hazing | The specific chapter that hazed your child |
| National Organization | Failed to supervise; knew about hazing culture | Deep pockets; insurance coverage |
| University | Failed to prevent hazing; owned/controlled property | Premises liability; negligent supervision |
| Chapter Officers | Leadership responsibility; directed activities | Personal liability; may have assets |
| Individual Members | Participated in hazing | Personal liability; homeowner’s insurance |
| Alumni Members | Hosted hazing at their homes | Premises liability; homeowner’s insurance |
| Housing Corporation | Owned property where hazing occurred | Insurance coverage; asset discovery |
The real money comes from national organizations and universities — not broke college students.
📋 What Lake County Families Should Do If Hazing Occurs
Immediate Steps — Protect Your Rights
-
Get Medical Attention
- Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor
- Some injuries (like rhabdomyolysis) may not show symptoms immediately
- Medical records are critical evidence
-
Preserve All Evidence
- Photos/Videos: Injuries, hazing locations, items used in hazing
- Communications: Texts, GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, emails
- Witnesses: Names and contact info of other victims or bystanders
- Documents: Pledge manuals, schedules, rules given to you
- Financial Records: Medical bills, lost wages, tuition statements
-
Do NOT Talk to the Organization
- Fraternities/sororities will try to control the narrative
- They may pressure you to sign documents or give statements
- Anything you say can be used against you
-
Do NOT Post on Social Media
- Insurance companies and lawyers will use your posts against you
- Even innocent posts can be twisted to minimize your injuries
- Stay off social media until your case is resolved
-
Contact an Attorney Immediately
- Statute of limitations: You typically have 2 years from the incident to file a lawsuit
- Evidence disappears quickly
- Witnesses forget details
- Organizations destroy records
Call Attorney 911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We serve Lake County families remotely and will travel to Lake County for your case.
💡 Why Lake County Families Choose Attorney 911
1. 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. This isn’t theoretical — we’re in the fight right now, and we’re bringing the same aggression to Lake County cases.
2. Nationwide Experience — Local Lake County Service
While we’re based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including Lake County. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses allow us to pursue your case no matter where the hazing occurred.
3. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys
Both of our attorneys — Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena — worked for insurance companies before switching sides. We know their playbook, their delay tactics, and their lowball strategies. We use this insider knowledge to maximize your recovery.
4. Aggressive, Compassionate Representation
We treat Lake County families like family. We understand the trauma of hazing, and we fight with both legal expertise and genuine compassion.
5. No Upfront Costs — We Work on Contingency
Lake County families pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict — you never pay out of pocket.
6. We Travel to Lake County
For depositions, client meetings, and trials, our attorneys will travel to Lake County as needed. Distance is not a barrier to justice.
🎯 How We Build a Strong Lake County Hazing Case
Step 1: Immediate Case Evaluation
- Free consultation to assess your case
- Determine liability and damages
- Explain your legal rights and options
Step 2: Evidence Preservation
- Send preservation letters to all defendants
- Demand they preserve all communications, photos, videos
- Prevent evidence destruction
Step 3: Comprehensive Investigation
- Interview witnesses
- Obtain medical records
- Gather communications (texts, social media, emails)
- Document all damages
Step 4: Expert Consultation
- Medical experts to explain injuries
- Hazing culture experts to explain organizational negligence
- Economic experts to calculate damages
Step 5: Demand Letter & Negotiation
- Send demand letter to all defendants
- Negotiate aggressively for maximum settlement
- Refuse lowball offers
Step 6: Litigation (If Necessary)
- File lawsuit in appropriate jurisdiction
- Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
- Prepare for trial
Step 7: Trial or Settlement
- Present your case to a jury if necessary
- Secure maximum compensation for your injuries
- Hold all responsible parties accountable
📚 Lake County Hazing Case Examples — What’s Possible
Case 1: $10.1 Million Settlement — Bowling Green State University
Victim: Stone Foltz (died from forced alcohol consumption)
Fraternity: Pi Kappa Alpha
Outcome: $10.1 million total settlement from university and fraternity
Case 2: $6.1 Million Jury Verdict — Louisiana State University
Victim: Maxwell Gruver (died from forced drinking at “Bible Study”)
Fraternity: Phi Delta Theta
Outcome: $6.1 million jury verdict; fraternity member convicted
Case 3: $110+ Million Settlement — Penn State University
Victim: Timothy Piazza (died after being forced to drink and falling down stairs)
Fraternity: Beta Theta Pi
Outcome: Estimated $110 million settlement; 18 members charged
Case 4: $10 Million Lawsuit — University of Houston (Our Case)
Victim: Leonel Bermudez (hospitalized with kidney failure)
Fraternity: Pi Kappa Phi
Outcome: Pending — $10 million lawsuit filed November 2025
Lake County families can achieve the same results.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions for Lake County Families
Q: What if the hazing happened at a university outside of Lake County?
A: It doesn’t matter where the hazing occurred. We represent hazing victims nationwide, including Lake County families whose children were hazed at universities anywhere in America.
Q: What if the fraternity or university is trying to silence us?
A: This is common. Organizations will pressure victims to stay quiet. Do not sign anything or give statements without consulting an attorney. We protect our clients from intimidation.
Q: What if we’re afraid of retaliation?
A: Our Houston client was “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution.” We understand this fear. We can help you pursue justice safely and confidentially.
Q: What if my child consented to participate?
A: Consent is not a defense under Montana law. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the organization is still liable for any harm caused.
Q: What if the hazing happened years ago?
A: The statute of limitations is typically 2 years from the incident. However, there may be exceptions for delayed discovery of injuries. Contact us immediately to discuss your timeline.
Q: What if we can’t afford a lawyer?
A: You don’t need to. We work on contingency — you pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
Q: What if the organization offers us a settlement?
A: Do not accept any settlement without consulting an attorney. First offers are always lowball bids. We can negotiate for maximum compensation.
Q: What if my child is an immigrant or undocumented?
A: Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation. We serve all Lake County families, regardless of status.
🏛️ Montana Hazing Laws — What Lake County Families Need to Know
Montana has specific laws against hazing. Under Montana Code Annotated § 45-5-627, hazing is defined as:
“Any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers that person, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate.”
Montana Hazing Penalties:
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Hazing | Up to 6 months in jail, $500 fine |
| Hazing causing bodily injury | Up to 1 year in jail, $1,000 fine |
| Hazing causing serious bodily injury | Up to 10 years in prison, $50,000 fine |
Additionally, Montana law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing.
🔍 How to Spot Hazing in Lake County
Hazing can be subtle or extreme. Warning signs that your child may be experiencing hazing:
Physical Signs
- Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries
- Extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation
- Changes in eating habits (vomiting, weight loss)
- Unusual clothing or accessories (fanny packs, matching outfits)
- Avoiding physical activity they previously enjoyed
Behavioral Signs
- Sudden withdrawal from family or friends
- Increased secrecy about activities
- Anxiety, depression, or mood swings
- Fear of certain people or places
- Sudden drop in academic performance
- Talking about “traditions” or “rituals” in hushed tones
Communication Signs
- Texts or social media posts about “pledging” or “initiations”
- References to “big brothers/sisters” in strange contexts
- Jokes or comments about “paying dues” or “earning respect”
- Group chats with cryptic language
If you notice these signs, talk to your child — and contact an attorney.
📞 Lake County Families: We’re Here to Help
You don’t have to fight this alone. Attorney 911 is here to protect Lake County hazing victims and their families.
How to Contact Us:
- Phone: 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7)
- Email: ralph@atty911.com
- Website: attorney911.com
- Video Consultation: Available for Lake County families
What to Expect:
- Free, confidential consultation — no obligation
- Immediate case evaluation — we assess your legal rights
- Aggressive representation — we fight for maximum compensation
- No upfront costs — we work on contingency
- Nationwide service — we pursue your case no matter where the hazing occurred
🎯 Our Message to Lake County Fraternities and Universities
To the fraternities operating near Lake County:
We are watching. The same legal strategies that secured $10+ million verdicts nationwide apply to your chapters. If you haze students in Lake County, we will pursue every liable entity — including you.
To Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi, and every other national fraternity with chapters near Lake County:
Know that Attorney 911 represents hazing victims across America. We are currently litigating a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi. Your chapter could be next.
To universities near Lake County:
The same institutional negligence that made the University of Houston a defendant exists at your campus. Act now or face the same accountability.
💔 To Lake County Hazing Victims and Families
We know what you’re going through. We’ve seen the pain, the fear, and the betrayal. We’ve seen the physical injuries and the emotional trauma.
You didn’t deserve this.
What happened to you wasn’t “tradition.” It wasn’t “building character.” It was abuse. And you have the right to seek justice.
We see your child as a person — not a paycheck. We will fight hard for Lake County families, because we truly care.
Enough is enough. It’s time to hold them accountable.
📞 Call Attorney 911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911.
We protect Lake County hazing victims. We fight for justice. We win.
