Hazing Victims in Tompkins County: Your Legal Rights and How to Fight Back
This Happens in Tompkins County Too — And We Can Help
Tompkins County is home to respected institutions like Cornell University, Ithaca College, and Tompkins Cortland Community College — schools where Greek life and student organizations play a significant role in campus culture. But behind the social events and philanthropy, a darker reality exists: hazing is happening right here in Tompkins County, and it’s putting students at serious risk.
If you or someone you love has been a victim of hazing in Tompkins County, you’re not alone. Attorney 911 is currently fighting a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston — a case that proves these organizations can and should be held accountable. The same legal strategies we’re using in Houston apply to hazing victims in Tompkins County.
You have rights. You have options. And you don’t have to face this alone.
What Is Hazing — And Why Is It Illegal in New York?
Hazing isn’t just “rough initiation rituals” or “harmless pranks.” It’s abuse disguised as tradition, and it’s illegal under New York State law.
New York’s Anti-Hazing Law (Education Law § 6450)
Under New York law, hazing is defined as:
“Any act, whether physical, mental, emotional or psychological, which subjects another person to anything that may abuse, mistreat, degrade, humiliate, harass, or intimidate them, or which may endanger their physical or mental health or safety, for the purpose of initiating, admitting, or affiliating a person into or with a student organization.”
This includes:
- Physical abuse: Forced exercise to exhaustion, beatings, paddling, waterboarding, sleep deprivation, exposure to extreme weather
- Forced consumption: Alcohol, food, or other substances to the point of vomiting or passing out
- Psychological abuse: Humiliation, degradation, threats, isolation
- Sexual abuse: Forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects
New York law is clear: Consent is NOT a defense. Even if a student “agrees” to participate, the organization and individuals involved can still be held legally responsible.
Criminal Penalties in New York
Hazing is a misdemeanor in New York, punishable by:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Expulsion from school
- Permanent criminal record
For hazing that results in serious physical injury or death, the penalties increase to a felony, with even harsher consequences.
Hazing in Tompkins County: The Reality
Tompkins County is not immune to the national hazing crisis. Cornell University, Ithaca College, and other local institutions have Greek life and student organizations where hazing occurs — often behind closed doors.
Fraternities and Sororities in Tompkins County
Cornell University alone has over 60 Greek organizations, including chapters of national fraternities like:
- Pi Kappa Phi (the same fraternity we’re suing in Houston)
- Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)
- Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)
- Beta Theta Pi
- Phi Delta Theta
These are the same national organizations that have paid millions in hazing settlements across the country. If they’re operating in Tompkins County, they’re bringing the same dangerous culture with them.
Hazing Doesn’t Just Happen in Greek Life
While fraternities and sororities are the most common offenders, hazing also occurs in:
- Sports teams (varsity and club)
- Marching bands
- ROTC programs
- Honor societies
- Student clubs
- Intramural teams
If you were pressured, coerced, or forced into dangerous or humiliating activities to join or remain in any organization in Tompkins County, you may have a legal case.
The Medical Dangers of Hazing: What Tompkins County Families Need to Know
Hazing isn’t just emotionally damaging — it can cause serious, life-threatening physical injuries. Some of the most common medical consequences include:
1. Rhabdomyolysis (Muscle Breakdown)
What it is: A condition where muscle tissue breaks down rapidly, releasing proteins (like myoglobin) into the bloodstream. These proteins can clog the kidneys and cause acute kidney failure — which can be fatal.
How hazing causes it:
- Extreme physical exertion (e.g., forced calisthenics, excessive running, bear crawls)
- Prolonged muscle compression (e.g., being hog-tied or confined in small spaces)
- Dehydration and heat exhaustion
Symptoms:
- Severe muscle pain and weakness
- Dark brown or tea-colored urine (a classic sign of myoglobin in the urine)
- Fatigue, confusion, or nausea
- Difficulty moving or walking
Real-world example: Our client in Houston was hospitalized with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure after being forced to do 500 squats, 100 pushups, and other extreme exercises during Pi Kappa Phi hazing.
2. Alcohol Poisoning
What it is: A dangerous — and often deadly — condition caused by drinking too much alcohol in a short period of time.
How hazing causes it:
- Forced drinking games
- “Binge drinking challenges”
- Pressure to consume large amounts of alcohol quickly
Symptoms:
- Confusion or stupor
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Hypothermia (low body temperature)
- Unconsciousness
Real-world example: In 2017, Maxwell Gruver died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink during Phi Delta Theta hazing at LSU. His blood alcohol content was 0.495 — more than six times the legal limit for driving.
3. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
What it is: A disruption in normal brain function caused by a blow to the head.
How hazing causes it:
- Being struck with objects (e.g., paddles, bottles)
- Falls from heights (e.g., being thrown into a pool, off a balcony)
- Being shaken or hit repeatedly
Symptoms:
- Headaches
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Memory loss
- Mood swings or personality changes
- Seizures
Real-world example: In 2017, Timothy Piazza died from a traumatic brain injury after falling down a flight of stairs during Beta Theta Pi hazing at Penn State. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911.
4. Heat Stroke and Hypothermia
What it is: Extreme overheating or extreme cold exposure that can lead to organ failure or death.
How hazing causes it:
- Forced exercise in hot weather without water
- Being left outside in cold weather with minimal clothing
- Confined in small, unventilated spaces
Symptoms:
- Heat stroke: High body temperature, confusion, nausea, seizures, loss of consciousness
- Hypothermia: Shivering, slurred speech, weak pulse, loss of consciousness
5. Sexual Assault and Abuse
What it is: Any non-consensual sexual act or behavior.
How hazing causes it:
- Forced nudity
- Sexualized games or rituals
- Being touched or groped without consent
- Being coerced into sexual acts under threat of expulsion
Real-world example: In 2021, a Sigma Chi chapter at College of Charleston was suspended after allegations of sexual misconduct during hazing.
6. Psychological Trauma (PTSD, Anxiety, Depression)
What it is: Long-term mental health consequences from hazing.
How hazing causes it:
- Extreme humiliation and degradation
- Threats of physical harm or expulsion
- Sleep deprivation
- Isolation from friends and family
Symptoms:
- Flashbacks or nightmares
- Severe anxiety or panic attacks
- Depression or suicidal thoughts
- Difficulty trusting others
Real-world impact: Many hazing victims drop out of school, struggle with substance abuse, or develop chronic mental health conditions.
Who Is Liable for Hazing in Tompkins County?
Hazing cases are not just about the individuals who directly harmed you. The organizations and institutions that allowed it to happen can also be held legally responsible.
1. The Local Chapter (Fraternity, Sorority, or Organization)
Why they’re liable:
- They organized and conducted the hazing
- They failed to stop dangerous activities
- They threatened or coerced you into participating
What we can sue for:
- Negligence — Failing to protect members
- Assault and battery — Physical harm
- Intentional infliction of emotional distress — Psychological abuse
2. The National Organization (e.g., Pi Kappa Phi, SAE, etc.)
Why they’re liable:
- They failed to supervise the local chapter
- They knew or should have known about hazing risks (many have prior incidents)
- They failed to enforce anti-hazing policies
What we can sue for:
- Negligent supervision — Failing to monitor chapters
- Pattern of negligence — Prior hazing incidents at other chapters
- Punitive damages — If they knew about the culture and did nothing
Example: In our Houston case, Pi Kappa Phi National is a defendant because they knew about Andrew Coffey’s death in 2017 and failed to prevent Leonel Bermudez’s hospitalization in 2025.
3. The University or College (Cornell, Ithaca College, etc.)
Why they’re liable:
- They own or control the property where hazing occurred (premises liability)
- They have a duty to protect students from foreseeable harm
- They failed to implement effective oversight of Greek life and student organizations
What we can sue for:
- Negligent supervision — Failing to monitor organizations
- Premises liability — If hazing occurred on university-owned property
- Institutional negligence — Failing to act despite prior incidents
Example: In the Stone Foltz case, Bowling Green State University paid $2.9 million for failing to prevent hazing.
4. Individual Members and Officers
Why they’re liable:
- They directly participated in or organized hazing
- They failed to stop dangerous activities
- They threatened or coerced you
What we can sue for:
- Assault and battery — Physical harm
- Intentional infliction of emotional distress — Psychological abuse
- Personal assets — If they have homeowner’s insurance or savings
Example: In the Stone Foltz case, the chapter president was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million.
5. Housing Corporations (If Hazing Occurred at a Fraternity/Sorority House)
Why they’re liable:
- They own or control the property where hazing occurred
- They failed to ensure the property was safe
What we can sue for:
- Premises liability — Unsafe conditions
- Insurance coverage — Many housing corporations have liability insurance
What Should You Do If You’ve Been Hazed in Tompkins County?
If you or someone you love has been hazed, time is critical. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and legal deadlines expire. Here’s what you should do immediately:
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention
- Go to the emergency room or urgent care — Even if you feel “fine,” some injuries (like rhabdomyolysis) may not show symptoms immediately.
- Tell the doctor you were hazed — Be specific about what happened (forced exercise, alcohol consumption, etc.).
- Keep all medical records — These will be critical evidence in your case.
Step 2: Preserve All Evidence
DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING. Evidence is the key to holding the responsible parties accountable.
What to save:
✅ Text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchats, Instagram DMs, emails — Anything related to the hazing
✅ Photos or videos — Of injuries, hazing activities, or the location where it happened
✅ Social media posts — From the organization or members about hazing
✅ Pledge manuals, schedules, or rules — Any documents given to you
✅ Names and contact info of witnesses — Other pledges, bystanders, or anyone who saw what happened
✅ Clothing or objects — From the hazing incident (e.g., paddles, fanny packs, etc.)
Step 3: Do NOT Talk to the Organization or Their Lawyers
- Do not confront the fraternity, sorority, or organization.
- Do not give statements to university administrators without legal counsel.
- Do not sign anything — They may try to get you to sign a waiver or confidentiality agreement.
Why? Anything you say can be used against you. They will try to minimize your injuries, shift blame, or intimidate you into silence.
Step 4: Report the Hazing (If You Feel Safe Doing So)
You can report hazing to:
- Your university’s Title IX office or student conduct office (Cornell, Ithaca College, etc.)
- New York State Police or local law enforcement (hazing is a crime in New York)
- The national organization (e.g., Pi Kappa Phi National, SAE National)
Note: Reporting to the university or police can be helpful, but it is not required to file a civil lawsuit. Many victims are afraid of retaliation, and that’s understandable. We can help you decide the best approach for your situation.
Step 5: Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney
Hazing cases are complex and emotionally charged. You need an attorney who:
✔ Understands hazing culture and how these organizations operate
✔ Has experience with multi-million dollar personal injury cases
✔ Is willing to take your case to trial if necessary
✔ Works on contingency — you pay nothing unless we win
Attorney 911 is fighting this fight right now. We’re currently representing a hazing victim in a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston, and we’re ready to bring the same aggressive representation to Tompkins County.
Call us 24/7 for a free, confidential consultation:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911
📧 ralph@atty911.com
What Compensation Can Tompkins County Hazing Victims Recover?
Hazing can cause physical, emotional, and financial harm. You may be entitled to compensation for:
1. Medical Expenses
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays (our client in Houston was hospitalized for 4 days)
- Surgeries or procedures
- Medications
- Therapy for PTSD, anxiety, or depression
- Future medical care (e.g., ongoing kidney monitoring, dialysis, or transplant if needed)
2. Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
- Time missed from work during recovery
- Lost internship or job opportunities
- Impact on future earning potential if injuries are permanent
3. Pain and Suffering
- Physical pain from injuries
- Emotional distress from humiliation, degradation, or trauma
- Anxiety, depression, or PTSD caused by the hazing
- Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed)
4. Educational Damages
- Tuition and fees for missed classes or semesters
- Lost scholarships due to academic disruption
- Transfer costs if you had to change schools
5. Punitive Damages
If the organization’s conduct was especially egregious (e.g., waterboarding, forced alcohol consumption, physical beatings), a court may award punitive damages to punish them and deter future misconduct.
Example: In the Max Gruver case, a jury awarded $6.1 million in punitive damages against Phi Delta Theta.
Real-World Hazing Settlements and Verdicts: What Tompkins County Victims Can Expect
Hazing cases can and do result in multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts. Here are some real examples that show what’s possible for Tompkins County victims:
| Case | Fraternity/Organization | University | Outcome | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stone Foltz | Pi Kappa Alpha | Bowling Green State | Settlement | $10.1 million |
| Maxwell Gruver | Phi Delta Theta | Louisiana State | Jury Verdict | $6.1 million |
| Timothy Piazza | Beta Theta Pi | Penn State | Settlement | $110+ million (estimated) |
| Andrew Coffey | Pi Kappa Phi | Florida State | Settlement | Confidential (major) |
| Leonel Bermudez | Pi Kappa Phi | University of Houston | Pending | $10 million (our case) |
Key Takeaways for Tompkins County Victims:
- Universities and national organizations pay millions when they fail to protect students.
- Juries are outraged by hazing and award significant damages.
- Even non-fatal injuries (like rhabdomyolysis) result in major settlements.
- Punitive damages are common when conduct is especially egregious.
Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Tompkins County Hazing Case?
Hazing cases require specialized legal expertise. You need attorneys who:
✔ Understand Greek life culture and how these organizations operate
✔ Have a proven track record of winning multi-million dollar personal injury cases
✔ Are willing to take your case to trial if necessary
✔ Work on contingency — you pay nothing unless we win
Our Experience Fighting Hazing
- Currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston
- Experience with rhabdomyolysis cases — the same injury our Houston client suffered
- Former insurance defense attorneys — we know how the other side thinks and fights
- Federal court admission — we can pursue your case in federal court if needed
- Dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) — strategic advantage for national fraternity cases
We Travel to Tompkins County
While we’re based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including Tompkins County. We offer:
- Free video consultations for Tompkins County victims
- Willingness to travel to Tompkins County for depositions, trials, and client meetings
- Remote case management so you don’t have to leave home
No Upfront Costs — You Pay Nothing Unless We Win
We understand that hazing victims and their families may be facing medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis:
- $0 upfront — no retainer or hourly fees
- We only get paid if we win your case
- Our fee is a percentage of your recovery — typically 33-40%
If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing in Tompkins County
1. “I consented to participate — can I still sue?”
Yes. Under New York law, consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if you “agreed” to participate, the organization and individuals involved can still be held legally responsible.
2. “I’m afraid of retaliation — what should I do?”
We understand that hazing victims often fear social ostracism, expulsion, or physical retaliation. Here’s how we protect you:
- Confidentiality: Your case is private until you decide otherwise.
- Legal protection: Retaliation is illegal and can lead to additional lawsuits.
- Anonymous reporting: We can explore options to keep your identity protected.
3. “The hazing happened off-campus — can I still sue the university?”
Yes. Even if hazing occurred off-campus, universities can still be held liable if:
- They knew or should have known about the hazing
- They failed to implement effective oversight of Greek life or student organizations
- The hazing was connected to the organization’s official activities
4. “How long do I have to file a lawsuit?”
In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is 3 years from the date of the injury. However, you should act much sooner because:
- Evidence disappears quickly
- Witnesses forget details
- Organizations may destroy records
The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
5. “What if I was hazed at a different school but live in Tompkins County now?”
It doesn’t matter where the hazing occurred. If you were hazed at a school outside Tompkins County but now live here, we can still represent you. We serve hazing victims nationwide.
6. “Can I sue even if I dropped out or transferred schools?”
Yes. Your right to sue is based on the harm you suffered, not your current enrollment status. Many hazing victims drop out or transfer due to trauma — that’s part of the damages we can pursue.
7. “What if the organization already suspended or closed the chapter?”
That doesn’t protect them from liability. In fact, it can be seen as an admission of guilt. In our Houston case, Pi Kappa Phi closed the UH chapter before the lawsuit was even filed — proving they knew they were in the wrong.
8. “Will my case go to trial?”
Most hazing cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This gives us maximum leverage in settlement negotiations. If the defendants refuse to offer a fair settlement, we’re ready to take your case to a jury.
Hazing in Tompkins County: The Organizations to Watch
The following national fraternities and sororities have chapters in or near Tompkins County and have been involved in hazing incidents, lawsuits, or criminal cases elsewhere in the country:
| Organization | Greek Letters | Notable Hazing Cases | Tompkins County Presence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pi Kappa Phi | ΠΚΦ (Pike) | Andrew Coffey (death, 2017); Leonel Bermudez (hospitalization, 2025) | Cornell University |
| Sigma Alpha Epsilon | ΣΑΕ (SAE) | Multiple hazing deaths; $1M+ settlements | Cornell University |
| Pi Kappa Alpha | ΠΚΑ (Pike) | Stone Foltz (death, 2021); $10.1M settlement | Cornell University |
| Beta Theta Pi | ΒΘΠ (Beta) | Timothy Piazza (death, 2017); $110M+ settlement | Cornell University |
| Phi Delta Theta | ΦΔΘ (Phi Delt) | Maxwell Gruver (death, 2017); $6.1M verdict | Cornell University |
| Sigma Chi | ΣΧ (Sig) | Multiple hazing suspensions; sexual misconduct allegations | Cornell University |
| Kappa Sigma | ΚΣ (Kappa Sig) | Multiple hazing deaths; $12.6M verdict | Cornell University |
| Sigma Nu | ΣΝ (Sigma Nu) | Hazing suspensions at multiple universities | Cornell University |
| Delta Tau Delta | ΔΤΔ (Delt) | Hazing suspensions; forced alcohol consumption | Cornell University |
If your child is pledging any of these organizations in Tompkins County, they face the same risks that hospitalized our client in Houston.
How Tompkins County Families Can Protect Their Children
Hazing often starts with seemingly harmless activities but escalates quickly. Here’s how to recognize the warning signs and protect your child:
Red Flags of Hazing
- Sudden changes in behavior (withdrawal, anxiety, depression)
- Unexplained injuries (bruises, cuts, burns)
- Sleep deprivation (falling asleep in class, dark circles under eyes)
- Sudden weight loss or gain (from forced eating or excessive exercise)
- Avoiding questions about the organization (secretive behavior)
- Wearing unusual clothing (e.g., carrying a fanny pack with strange objects)
- Missing classes or declining academic performance
- New slang or inside jokes that seem concerning
What to Do If You Suspect Hazing
-
Talk to your child — Ask open-ended questions like:
- “What’s the pledge process like?”
- “Have you ever felt pressured to do something you didn’t want to do?”
- “Is there anything about the organization that makes you uncomfortable?”
-
Educate yourself — Learn about the organization’s history and reputation.
-
Document everything — Save texts, photos, or social media posts that seem concerning.
-
Contact the university — Report your concerns to the Greek Life office or Title IX office.
-
Contact an attorney — If you believe your child has been hazed, call us immediately.
What to Say to Your Child About Hazing
- “You have the right to say no.” No organization should pressure you into dangerous or humiliating activities.
- “Real brotherhood/sisterhood doesn’t require abuse.” True bonds are built on respect, not fear.
- “If something feels wrong, it probably is.” Trust your instincts.
- “You can always come to me.” No matter what, we’re here to support you.
The Bottom Line: Hazing in Tompkins County Must End
Hazing is not tradition. It’s not bonding. It’s not harmless fun.
It’s abuse. It’s torture. It’s illegal.
And it’s happening right here in Tompkins County, at schools like Cornell University, Ithaca College, and Tompkins Cortland Community College.
Enough is enough.
If you or someone you love has been hazed, you have the power to hold the responsible parties accountable. You have the power to prevent this from happening to someone else. And you have the power to get the compensation you deserve.
Attorney 911 is ready to fight for you. We’re currently representing a hazing victim in a $10 million lawsuit, and we’re bringing that same aggressive representation to Tompkins County.
Call us today for a free, confidential consultation:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911
📧 ralph@atty911.com
You don’t have to face this alone. We’re here to help.
