Hazing Victims in Licking County, Ohio: Your Legal Rights and Path to Justice
When “Tradition” Becomes Torture: The Hazing Crisis Hits Close to Home in Licking County
Licking County families send their children to college expecting them to grow, learn, and build lifelong friendships. What they don’t expect is for their child to be waterboarded, forced to exercise until their muscles break down, or subjected to other forms of physical and psychological abuse—all in the name of “brotherhood” or “tradition.”
Yet this is exactly what’s happening at universities across Ohio, including those near Licking County. The same fraternities that have paid millions in settlements for hazing deaths and injuries nationwide operate right here in our community. And the same universities that claim to prioritize student safety continue to fail at protecting their students from these dangerous rituals.
At Attorney 911, we’re fighting this battle right now. We’re currently representing a hazing victim in a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston—a case that has exposed waterboarding, forced consumption, and extreme physical punishment in fraternity hazing. This isn’t just happening in Texas. It’s happening in Ohio. It could be happening at a university near Licking County right now.
If your child has been hazed, you have legal rights. And we can help.
The Hazing Epidemic in Ohio: By the Numbers
Hazing isn’t just a problem—it’s an epidemic. The statistics paint a disturbing picture of what’s happening on Ohio campuses:
- 55% of college students in fraternities, sororities, and sports teams experience hazing
- 40% of student athletes report being hazed
- 95% of hazing victims never report the abuse
- Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every year in the United States
- Ohio has seen multiple hazing deaths in recent years, leading to new laws and multi-million-dollar lawsuits
These aren’t just numbers. Behind each statistic is a Licking County family whose child was betrayed by the very organizations they trusted.
What Ohio Law Says About Hazing
Ohio has taken a strong stance against hazing, particularly after high-profile cases like the death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University. Under Ohio Revised Code § 2903.31, hazing is defined as:
“Doing any act or coercing another, including the victim, to do any act of initiation into any student or other organization that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to any person.”
This includes:
- Physical brutality (beatings, paddling, forced exercise)
- Forced consumption of alcohol, food, or other substances
- Psychological abuse (humiliation, sleep deprivation, isolation)
- Sexual abuse (forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects)
Ohio’s Anti-Hazing Law: Key Provisions
| Provision | What It Means for Licking County Victims |
|---|---|
| Hazing is a criminal offense | Individuals can face misdemeanor or felony charges |
| Organizations can be held liable | Fraternities, sororities, and universities can be sued |
| Consent is not a defense | Even if a student “agreed” to participate, hazing is still illegal |
| Reporting requirements | Universities must report hazing incidents |
| Immunity for reporting | Students who report hazing are protected from retaliation |
Ohio’s Collin’s Law: A Landmark for Hazing Prevention
Named after Collin Wiant, an Ohio University student who died from hazing in 2018, Collin’s Law (effective October 2021) made significant changes to Ohio’s hazing statutes:
- Hazing is now a felony if it results in serious physical harm
- Universities must provide hazing education to students
- Organizations must report hazing within 24 hours
- Increased penalties for individuals and organizations
This law was a direct response to the culture of hazing in Ohio. But laws alone aren’t enough. Victims and families must hold these organizations accountable in court.
The Multi-Million-Dollar Question: Who Is Liable for Hazing in Licking County?
When hazing occurs, multiple parties can—and should—be held legally and financially responsible. In our current case against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston, we’re pursuing claims against:
- The Local Chapter – The individuals who directly organized and carried out the hazing
- The National Organization – The parent fraternity or sorority that failed to supervise and enforce anti-hazing policies
- The University – The institution that failed to protect students, especially when they own or control the property where hazing occurs
- Individual Members – The officers, pledgemasters, and active members who participated in or enabled the hazing
- Alumni and Advisors – Former members who may have hosted or facilitated hazing activities
- Insurance Companies – The policies that should cover the damages caused by hazing
Why Universities Are Often Liable for Hazing
Many Licking County families don’t realize that universities can be held responsible for hazing that occurs on their campuses—even if it’s carried out by student organizations. Here’s why:
- Premises Liability: If the university owns or controls the property where hazing occurs (such as a fraternity house), they have a duty to maintain a safe environment.
- Negligent Supervision: Universities have a responsibility to oversee student organizations and intervene when they become aware of dangerous activities.
- Failure to Act: If a university has prior knowledge of hazing at a particular organization and fails to take meaningful action, they can be held liable for future incidents.
- Control Over Recognition: Universities have the power to suspend or revoke recognition of student organizations. When they fail to use this power to stop hazing, they share responsibility.
In our current case, the University of Houston owns the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity house where the hazing occurred. They collected rent while students were being waterboarded and forced to exercise to the point of kidney failure. They own the torture chamber.
What Counts as Hazing? A Licking County Parent’s Guide
Hazing isn’t always obvious. Many Licking County parents assume hazing is just “boys being boys” or “a little roughhousing.” But the reality is far more dangerous. Here are some of the most common—and most dangerous—hazing activities we see:
Physical Abuse
- Beatings or paddling with wooden or other objects
- Forced exercise to exhaustion (e.g., 500 squats, 100 pushups, bear crawls)
- Waterboarding or simulated drowning (as seen in our current case)
- Branding or burning with hot objects
- Sleep deprivation through forced late-night activities
- Exposure to extreme weather (e.g., stripped to underwear in cold weather)
- Confinement in small spaces for extended periods
Forced Consumption
- Binge drinking (forced to drink entire bottles of alcohol)
- Forced eating until vomiting (milk, hot dogs, peppercorns, etc.)
- Consumption of non-food substances (e.g., raw eggs, spoiled food)
- Forced to continue activities even after vomiting or showing signs of distress
Psychological and Emotional Abuse
- Humiliation rituals (e.g., carrying sexual objects, forced nudity)
- Degrading tasks (e.g., cleaning with toothbrushes, acting as personal servants)
- Isolation from friends and family
- Threats of physical harm or expulsion if the victim doesn’t comply
- Verbal abuse and name-calling
Sexual Abuse
- Forced nudity in front of others
- Sexual acts or simulations
- Carrying or wearing sexual objects
- Sexual assault or harassment
The Medical Consequences: What Licking County Parents Need to Know
Hazing doesn’t just leave emotional scars. The physical consequences can be severe—and sometimes fatal. Some of the most common medical issues we see in hazing cases include:
| Injury | Cause | Potential Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Rhabdomyolysis | Extreme physical exertion (e.g., 500 squats) | Kidney failure, hospitalization, potential lifelong kidney damage |
| Acute Alcohol Poisoning | Forced binge drinking | Death, brain damage, respiratory failure |
| Traumatic Brain Injury | Beatings, falls, or being struck with objects | Permanent cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes |
| Hypothermia/Hyperthermia | Exposure to extreme temperatures | Organ failure, death |
| Internal Injuries | Physical abuse (e.g., lacerated spleen) | Emergency surgery, lifelong complications |
| PTSD, Anxiety, Depression | Psychological trauma of hazing | Therapy, medication, difficulty functioning in daily life |
| Suicidal Ideation | Extreme humiliation and distress | Self-harm, suicide attempts |
In our current case, our client was hospitalized for four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after being forced to perform extreme physical exercises. He was so exhausted from the hazing that he couldn’t stand without help and had to crawl up the stairs when he got home.
This is the reality of hazing. It’s not “tradition.” It’s not “building character.” It’s abuse. And it has medical consequences that can last a lifetime.
The Legal Process for Licking County Hazing Victims: What to Expect
If your child has been hazed, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the legal process and what you can expect:
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention
- Even if injuries seem minor, get a medical evaluation. Some conditions, like rhabdomyolysis, may not show symptoms immediately.
- Document everything. Medical records are critical evidence in hazing cases.
- Follow all treatment recommendations. This not only helps your child recover but also strengthens your legal case.
Step 2: Preserve Evidence
- Save all communications (texts, emails, GroupMe messages, social media posts).
- Take photographs of any injuries, the location where hazing occurred, and any objects used in the hazing.
- Document witness names and contact information.
- Keep a journal of what happened, including dates, times, and descriptions of events.
Do NOT:
- Delete any messages or posts
- Confront the organization or its members without legal counsel
- Sign anything from the organization or university
- Post about the incident on social media
Step 3: Report the Hazing
- File a police report. Hazing is a crime in Ohio.
- Report to the university. Under Ohio law, universities must investigate hazing reports.
- Consider reporting to the national organization (if applicable).
Step 4: Contact an Attorney
- Time is critical. Ohio has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Evidence disappears, and memories fade—act quickly.
- We offer free consultations. We’ll evaluate your case and explain your legal options.
- We work on contingency. You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
Step 5: Investigation and Demand
- We’ll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build your case.
- We’ll send a demand letter to the responsible parties, outlining the damages and seeking compensation.
- We’ll negotiate with insurance companies and defense attorneys.
Step 6: Litigation (If Necessary)
- If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we’ll file a lawsuit.
- The discovery process begins, including depositions, document requests, and expert testimony.
- We may participate in mediation to attempt a settlement.
- If necessary, we’ll take your case to trial.
Step 7: Resolution
- Your case may settle out of court, or a jury may award damages.
- Compensation may include medical expenses, pain and suffering, punitive damages, and more.
Why Licking County Families Choose Attorney 911 for Hazing Cases
Hazing cases are complex. They involve multiple defendants, institutional resistance, and sensitive issues of culture and tradition. You need attorneys who understand the legal landscape, the psychology of hazing, and how to hold powerful institutions accountable.
At Attorney 911, we have the experience, resources, and determination to fight for Licking County hazing victims. Here’s why we’re the right choice for your family:
1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now
We’re currently representing a hazing victim in a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical for us—it’s happening right now. We know how to build these cases, we know how to negotiate with these defendants, and we know how to win.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys
Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña worked for insurance companies before switching sides to represent victims. We know their playbook. We know how they try to minimize claims. And we know how to dismantle their defenses.
3. Federal Court Authority
We’re admitted to practice in U.S. District Court, which means we can pursue hazing cases in federal court if necessary. This is particularly important when dealing with national fraternities and sororities.
4. Dual-State Bar Admission
We’re licensed in Texas and New York, giving us strategic flexibility when pursuing national organizations headquartered in different states.
5. Proven Track Record in High-Stakes Litigation
- BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: Represented victims in one of the largest industrial disasters in U.S. history.
- Multi-Million-Dollar Personal Injury Cases: Successfully obtained numerous seven-figure settlements and verdicts.
- Federal Civil Rights Cases: Experience in complex constitutional litigation.
6. We Travel to Licking County
While we’re based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide. We’ll travel to Licking County for depositions, trials, and client meetings. Distance is not a barrier to justice.
7. We Speak Spanish
We have bilingual staff and can provide legal services in Spanish. Se habla español.
8. We Treat You Like Family
We understand the emotional toll hazing takes on victims and their families. We’ll treat you with compassion, respect, and dignity throughout the legal process.
9. We Work on Contingency
You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This means you can fight for justice without worrying about legal fees.
What Licking County Hazing Victims Can Recover
If your child has been hazed, you may be entitled to significant compensation. The exact amount depends on the severity of the injuries, the egregiousness of the conduct, and the defendants’ ability to pay. Here are some of the damages we pursue in hazing cases:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages (if the victim missed work due to injuries)
- Lost earning capacity (if injuries affect future career prospects)
- Educational expenses (tuition, fees, lost scholarships)
- Rehabilitation costs (physical therapy, mental health treatment)
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering (physical and emotional distress)
- Mental anguish (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
- Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in normal activities)
- Disfigurement (scars, permanent injuries)
- Loss of consortium (impact on family relationships)
Punitive Damages
In cases of extreme misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendants and deter similar behavior. These are particularly appropriate in hazing cases where:
- The conduct was intentional or reckless
- The defendants knew about the risks and failed to act
- There was a pattern of hazing at the organization
Precedent Cases: Hazing Victims Win Big
Hazing cases aren’t just about justice—they’re about sending a message. And that message is clear: Hazing costs millions. Here are some of the largest hazing settlements and verdicts in recent years:
Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University, 2021)
- Fraternity: Pi Kappa Alpha
- Injury: Death from alcohol poisoning
- Outcome: $10.1 million settlement
- Significance: Largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history
Maxwell Gruver (Louisiana State University, 2017)
- Fraternity: Phi Delta Theta
- Injury: Death from alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.495)
- Outcome: $6.1 million jury verdict
- Significance: Led to the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana
Timothy Piazza (Penn State University, 2017)
- Fraternity: Beta Theta Pi
- Injury: Death from traumatic brain injury after falling down stairs
- Outcome: $110+ million settlement (estimated)
- Significance: Led to the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania
Adam Oakes (Virginia Commonwealth University, 2021)
- Fraternity: Delta Chi
- Injury: Death from alcohol poisoning
- Outcome: $4+ million settlement
- Significance: Family created the “Love Like Adam” Foundation to combat hazing
Our Current Case: Leonel Bermudez (University of Houston, 2025)
- Fraternity: Pi Kappa Phi
- Injury: Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure (4-day hospitalization)
- Outcome: $10 million lawsuit pending
- Significance: Exposes waterboarding, forced eating, and extreme physical punishment in hazing
These cases prove that hazing victims and their families can—and do—win big. The same legal strategies apply to Licking County cases.
Common Defenses in Hazing Cases—and How We Defeat Them
Fraternities, sororities, and universities will try every trick in the book to avoid responsibility for hazing. Here are some of the most common defenses we see—and how we counter them:
Defense 1: “He Consented to Participate”
Their Argument: “The victim knew what he was getting into. He could have left at any time.”
Our Response:
- Ohio law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing (Ohio Revised Code § 2903.31).
- Coercion and peer pressure negate true consent. Victims often fear social exclusion, retaliation, or losing their place in the organization if they don’t comply.
- Victims rarely know the true extent of what they’re consenting to. Hazing is often hidden until it’s too late.
Defense 2: “It Was Just Tradition”
Their Argument: “This is how we’ve always done things. It’s part of our culture.”
Our Response:
- “Tradition” does not justify illegal activity. Slavery, segregation, and discrimination were once “traditions” too.
- Organizations have a duty to evolve and ensure their traditions don’t harm members.
- National organizations have policies that explicitly prohibit hazing. When they ignore these policies, they’re liable.
Defense 3: “We Didn’t Know It Was Happening”
Their Argument: “The national organization/university had no knowledge of the hazing.”
Our Response:
- Pattern evidence shows that hazing is often systemic. If one chapter is hazing, others likely are too.
- Prior incidents at the same organization or university prove knowledge.
- Whistleblowers and complaints often exist but are ignored.
- Universities have oversight responsibility—they can’t claim ignorance when they own the fraternity house.
Defense 4: “It Was Just a Prank Gone Wrong”
Their Argument: “We didn’t mean to hurt anyone. It was just a joke.”
Our Response:
- Waterboarding is not a prank. Forced exercise to the point of kidney failure is not a joke.
- The severity of the injuries proves the conduct was dangerous and intentional.
- Juries don’t buy it. When a student ends up in the hospital, calling it a “prank” is insulting to the victim and the jury.
What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Licking County
If you suspect or know that your child has been hazed, time is of the essence. Here’s what to do immediately:
1. Ensure Your Child’s Safety
- Remove them from the situation if they’re still being hazed.
- Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor. Some conditions (like rhabdomyolysis) may not show symptoms immediately.
2. Preserve Evidence
- Save all communications (texts, emails, social media messages, GroupMe chats).
- Take photographs of any injuries, the location where hazing occurred, and any objects used in the hazing.
- Document witness names and contact information.
- Keep a journal of what happened, including dates, times, and descriptions of events.
3. Report the Hazing
- File a police report. Hazing is a crime in Ohio.
- Report to the university. Under Ohio law, universities must investigate hazing reports.
- Consider reporting to the national organization (if applicable).
4. Do NOT Confront the Organization
- Do not talk to fraternity/sorority leadership without legal counsel.
- Do not sign anything from the organization or university.
- Do not post about the incident on social media.
5. Contact an Attorney
- Call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.
- We offer free consultations and work on contingency (no upfront fees).
- We’ll guide you through the next steps and protect your legal rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing Cases in Licking County
Q: My child was hazed, but they don’t want to report it. What should I do?
A: We understand that victims often fear retaliation or social consequences. However, it’s critical to report the hazing to:
- Protect other students from experiencing the same abuse
- Preserve your legal rights before evidence disappears
- Hold the organization accountable to prevent future hazing
We can help your child report the hazing anonymously if they’re concerned about retaliation.
Q: The fraternity/sorority claims this was just “boys being boys” or “girls being girls.” Is that a valid defense?
A: No. Hazing is illegal in Ohio, regardless of gender. What happened to your child was not “boys being boys”—it was abuse. And it’s not excusable.
Q: The university says they had no knowledge of the hazing. Can they still be held liable?
A: Yes. Universities have a duty to supervise student organizations, especially when they own or control the property where hazing occurs. If the university had prior knowledge of hazing at the organization (or should have known), they can be held liable for failing to act.
Q: My child signed a waiver or “agreement” with the organization. Does that mean we can’t sue?
A: No. Ohio law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child signed something, they cannot legally consent to being hazed.
Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
A: Ohio has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This means you have two years from the date of the hazing incident to file a lawsuit. However, evidence disappears and memories fade over time, so it’s critical to act quickly.
Q: We’re not from Texas. Can you still represent us?
A: Absolutely. While we’re based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide. We have:
- Federal court authority to pursue cases across state lines
- Dual-state bar admission (Texas and New York)
- Willingness to travel to Licking County for depositions, trials, and client meetings
- Video consultation technology for remote meetings
Distance is not a barrier to justice.
Q: How much does it cost to hire you?
A: Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:
- You pay no attorney fees unless we win your case
- Our fee is a percentage of the recovery (typically 33-40%)
- If we don’t win, you owe us nothing
This allows Licking County families to fight for justice without worrying about legal fees.
Q: What if my child was hazed at a university near Licking County, but not in Licking County itself?
A: It doesn’t matter where the hazing occurred. If your child attends a university near Licking County (such as Ohio State University, Denison University, Kenyon College, or others), we can still represent you. We pursue hazing cases nationwide.
Q: My child is an international student. Can they still pursue a case?
A: Yes. International students have the same legal rights as domestic students. Your child’s immigration status does not affect their ability to seek compensation for hazing injuries. We have bilingual staff and can provide legal services in Spanish if needed.
Q: The fraternity/sorority has already suspended the chapter. Does that mean they’re taking responsibility?
A: Not necessarily. Organizations often close or suspend chapters to:
- Limit their liability in lawsuits
- Distance themselves from the incident
- Protect their reputation rather than prevent future hazing
In our current case, Pi Kappa Phi closed the UH chapter 7 days before the lawsuit was filed—clearly an attempt to limit their exposure. Closing a chapter does not absolve them of responsibility.
Q: What if my child participated in some of the hazing activities? Can they still pursue a case?
A: Yes. Even if your child participated in some activities, they can still pursue a case if:
- They were coerced or pressured into participating
- They didn’t know the true extent of what they were agreeing to
- The activities they participated in were different from what was described to them
- They were under the influence of alcohol or drugs provided by the organization
Ohio law is clear: consent is not a defense to hazing.
The Universities Near Licking County: What You Need to Know
Licking County is home to a strong community of families who value education. Many local students attend universities across Ohio, where Greek life is prevalent. Here are some of the universities near Licking County and what you should know about their Greek life cultures:
Ohio State University (Columbus, OH)
- Greek Life: One of the largest Greek systems in the country, with over 60 fraternities and sororities.
- Hazing History: Multiple hazing incidents reported over the years, including suspensions and lawsuits.
- Why It Matters: OSU’s size and influence mean that hazing culture there can set the tone for other Ohio universities.
Denison University (Granville, OH)
- Greek Life: Significant Greek presence, with many students participating in fraternities and sororities.
- Hazing History: Reports of hazing have led to chapter suspensions in the past.
- Why It Matters: Denison is close to Licking County, making it a common choice for local students.
Kenyon College (Gambier, OH)
- Greek Life: Smaller Greek system, but still a presence on campus.
- Hazing History: Incidents have been reported, though less frequently than at larger universities.
- Why It Matters: Kenyon’s proximity to Licking County means many local families have children attending.
University of Cincinnati (Cincinnati, OH)
- Greek Life: Large Greek system with numerous fraternities and sororities.
- Hazing History: Multiple hazing incidents have led to suspensions and legal action.
- Why It Matters: UC’s urban setting and large student body create an environment where hazing can thrive if not properly monitored.
Miami University (Oxford, OH)
- Greek Life: Known for its strong Greek culture, with a high percentage of students participating.
- Hazing History: Multiple hazing incidents reported, including suspensions and lawsuits.
- Why It Matters: Miami’s reputation as a “party school” can contribute to a culture where hazing is normalized.
Ohio University (Athens, OH)
- Greek Life: One of the largest Greek systems in Ohio, with a long history of Greek life.
- Hazing History: Multiple hazing deaths and injuries have occurred, leading to lawsuits and new laws.
- Why It Matters: OU’s hazing culture has been well-documented, making it a high-risk environment for students.
Capital University (Columbus, OH)
- Greek Life: Smaller Greek system, but still active on campus.
- Hazing History: Reports of hazing have led to investigations and suspensions.
- Why It Matters: Capital’s proximity to Licking County makes it a popular choice for local students.
Otterbein University (Westerville, OH)
- Greek Life: Smaller Greek system, but with active fraternities and sororities.
- Hazing History: Incidents have been reported, though less frequently than at larger schools.
- Why It Matters: Otterbein’s location near Columbus makes it accessible for Licking County students.
The National Fraternities Operating Near Licking County
Many of the same national fraternities involved in hazing deaths and lawsuits nationwide have chapters at universities near Licking County. Here are some of the most prominent—and most dangerous—organizations:
Pi Kappa Phi
- Notable Incidents:
- Andrew Coffey (Florida State, 2017): Died from alcohol poisoning during hazing.
- Leonel Bermudez (University of Houston, 2025): Hospitalized with kidney failure after waterboarding and forced exercise.
- Chapters Near Licking County: Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati
- Why It Matters: Pi Kappa Phi has a documented history of deadly hazing, yet continues to operate chapters across Ohio.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)
- Notable Incidents:
- Multiple hazing deaths across the country, including at University of Texas and University of Maryland.
- Racist incidents at multiple chapters.
- Chapters Near Licking County: Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati, Miami University
- Why It Matters: SAE has one of the worst hazing records of any national fraternity.
Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)
- Notable Incidents:
- Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State, 2021): Died from alcohol poisoning; family received $10.1 million settlement.
- David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois, 2012): Died from alcohol poisoning; $14 million settlement.
- Chapters Near Licking County: Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati, Miami University
- Why It Matters: Pike has paid millions in settlements, yet continues to operate chapters near Licking County.
Phi Delta Theta
- Notable Incidents:
- Maxwell Gruver (LSU, 2017): Died from alcohol poisoning; $6.1 million jury verdict.
- Chapters Near Licking County: Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati, Miami University, Ohio University
- Why It Matters: Phi Delta Theta’s hazing culture led to a landmark jury verdict and new laws.
Beta Theta Pi
- Notable Incidents:
- Timothy Piazza (Penn State, 2017): Died from traumatic brain injury; $110+ million settlement.
- Chapters Near Licking County: Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati, Miami University
- Why It Matters: Beta Theta Pi’s hazing death led to one of the largest settlements in history.
Sigma Chi
- Notable Incidents:
- Recent lawsuit at University of Texas (2025): Student died by suicide after “horrific abuse.”
- Chapters Near Licking County: Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati, Miami University
- Why It Matters: Sigma Chi is currently facing a wrongful death lawsuit, showing that hazing continues despite prior incidents.
Kappa Sigma
- Notable Incidents:
- Multiple hazing deaths and injuries across the country.
- Chapters Near Licking County: Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati, Ohio University
- Why It Matters: Kappa Sigma has a long history of hazing incidents, yet continues to operate chapters near Licking County.
The Message to Licking County Fraternities: We Are Watching
To the fraternities operating near Licking County:
We are watching.
The same legal strategies that secured $10 million verdicts nationwide apply to your chapters. The same national organizations that paid millions for hazing deaths and injuries oversee your activities.
If you haze students in Licking County, we will find every liable entity. We will sue:
- Your local chapter
- Your national organization
- Your housing corporation
- Your alumni advisors
- Your individual members
- The university that allows you to operate
We already shut down the Pi Kappa Phi chapter at University of Houston. We’re coming for every chapter that thinks they can torture our kids and walk away.
Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi, Sigma Chi, Kappa Sigma—if your chapter operates near Licking County, know that Attorney 911 represents hazing victims across America.
The Beta Nu chapter learned this the hard way. Your chapter could be next.
The Message to Licking County Universities: Your Negligence Has Consequences
To the universities near Licking County:
You own the torture chambers.
You collect rent while students are waterboarded. You have the power to inspect, regulate, and shut down dangerous organizations. You have the responsibility to protect your students.
When you fail, you pay.
The University of Houston is learning this right now. They own the Pi Kappa Phi house where a student was waterboarded and hospitalized with kidney failure. They had prior knowledge of hazing at their fraternities. They did nothing.
Ohio State, Denison, Kenyon, Cincinnati, Miami, Ohio University—you are on notice.
If hazing happens on your campus, we will hold you accountable. We will sue you for negligent supervision. We will sue you for premises liability. We will sue you for failing to protect your students.
The time for excuses is over. The time for accountability is now.
The Message to Licking County Families: You Are Not Alone
To the parents, siblings, and loved ones of hazing victims in Licking County:
We see you.
We know the pain of watching your child suffer. We know the rage of realizing that the organizations you trusted betrayed them. We know the fear of speaking out against powerful institutions.
You are not alone.
We are fighting this battle right now. We’re representing a hazing victim in a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know how to build these cases. We know how to hold these institutions accountable. And we know how to win.
If your child has been hazed, we can help. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.
This is not just about compensation. It’s about accountability. It’s about sending a message that hazing will not be tolerated in Licking County or anywhere else. It’s about protecting the next student from experiencing the same abuse.
Enough is enough. It’s time to fight back.
Contact Attorney 911: Licking County’s Hazing Litigation Experts
If your child has been hazed at a university near Licking County, you have legal rights. And we can help you enforce them.
📞 Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911
✉️ Email: ralph@atty911.com
🌐 Visit: attorney911.com
Why Choose Us for Your Licking County Hazing Case:
✅ We’re fighting this battle right now – $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston
✅ Former insurance defense attorneys – We know how they try to minimize claims
✅ Federal court authority – Can pursue cases in federal jurisdiction
✅ Dual-state bar admission – Licensed in Texas and New York
✅ We travel to Licking County – For depositions, trials, and client meetings
✅ Se habla español – Bilingual staff available
✅ Contingency fee basis – $0 upfront; we only get paid if we win
What Licking County Families Can Expect:
- Free consultation – We’ll evaluate your case and explain your options
- Immediate action – Preserve evidence, report the hazing, protect your rights
- Aggressive representation – We’ll fight for maximum compensation
- Compassionate support – We treat you like family throughout the process
Don’t Wait – Evidence Disappears
Ohio has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and your legal rights expire. Contact us immediately to protect your case.
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com | attorney911.com
Together, We Can End Hazing in Licking County
Hazing doesn’t have to be a rite of passage. It doesn’t have to be “tradition.” It doesn’t have to be accepted.
With each lawsuit, each settlement, and each verdict, we send a message: Hazing will not be tolerated.
If your child has been hazed, you have the power to make a difference. You have the power to hold these organizations accountable. You have the power to protect the next student.
Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s fight back together.
Attorney 911 – Legal Emergency Lawyers™
Protecting Licking County Families from Hazing Abuse
1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com | attorney911.com