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Marshall County (Earth/North America/United States/Oklahoma/Marshall County) Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $50M+ in National Settlements Exposed | Attorney911 — The Firm That Shut Down Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu | Pike $24M | Federal Court Evidence Experts | 1-888-ATTY-911

February 24, 2026 19 min read
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🚨 Hazing Justice for Marshall County Families: What You Need to Know

If your child has been a victim of hazing at a college or university near Marshall County, Oklahoma, you are not alone—and you have legal rights.

At Attorney 911, we are currently fighting a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for a young man hospitalized with severe rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure after being waterboarded, forced to do 500 squats, and subjected to other forms of brutal hazing. This same abuse happens at institutions near Marshall County, and we are here to fight for justice for Oklahoma families.

🔍 What Is Hazing?

Hazing is any activity expected of someone joining a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them—regardless of whether they consent. In Oklahoma and across the nation, hazing is illegal, and it can cause serious physical and psychological harm.

Common Hazing Practices Near Marshall County:

  • Physical abuse: Beatings, paddling, excessive exercise (like 500 squats), forced calisthenics
  • Forced consumption: Alcohol, food, or other substances until vomiting
  • Psychological torture: Waterboarding, sleep deprivation, humiliation
  • Sexual abuse: Forced nudity, carrying sexual objects, assault
  • Servitude: Forced errands, cleaning, or driving for members

This isn’t tradition. It’s abuse. And it’s against the law.

⚠️ The Hazing Crisis in Oklahoma

Hazing is not just a problem in Texas—it’s happening at colleges and universities near Marshall County, Oklahoma. The same national fraternities and sororities that operate at the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and other Texas schools also have chapters at institutions near Marshall County.

Universities and Colleges Near Marshall County with Greek Life:

  • University of Oklahoma (Norman, OK) – Major Greek system with active fraternities and sororities
  • Oklahoma State University (Stillwater, OK) – Large Greek presence, known for high-risk hazing culture
  • Southeastern Oklahoma State University (Durant, OK) – Smaller but active Greek organizations
  • East Central University (Ada, OK) – Greek life with documented hazing risks
  • Murray State College (Tishomingo, OK) – Smaller institutions with Greek organizations

If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority at any of these schools—or any school near Marshall County—they face the same risks that hospitalized our client in Houston.

🏥 Medical Consequences of Hazing

Hazing isn’t just “boys being boys.” It can cause serious, life-threatening injuries, including:

Injury What It Is Symptoms Long-Term Effects
Rhabdomyolysis Muscle breakdown from extreme exertion Severe muscle pain, dark urine, inability to move Kidney failure, permanent damage, death
Acute Kidney Failure Kidneys stop filtering waste Swelling, fatigue, confusion, decreased urine output Dialysis, transplant, lifelong monitoring
Alcohol Poisoning Overdose from forced drinking Vomiting, confusion, unconsciousness, slowed breathing Brain damage, death
Traumatic Brain Injury Head trauma from beatings or falls Headache, dizziness, memory loss, seizures Permanent cognitive impairment, disability
PTSD / Anxiety / Depression Psychological trauma from abuse Nightmares, flashbacks, social withdrawal, suicidal thoughts Lifelong therapy, medication, emotional suffering
Hypothermia / Heat Stroke Exposure to extreme temperatures Confusion, shivering, loss of consciousness Organ damage, death

Our client in Houston spent 4 days in the hospital with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure after being forced to do 500 squats and other extreme exercises. This same abuse could be happening to students near Marshall County.

⚖️ Your Legal Rights in Oklahoma

If your child has been hazed in Oklahoma, you have legal options—even if the incident happened in Texas or another state. Here’s what Oklahoma families need to know:

1. Oklahoma Has Strong Anti-Hazing Laws

Oklahoma’s anti-hazing statute (21 O.S. § 1190) makes hazing a misdemeanor, punishable by:

  • Up to 1 year in jail
  • Fines up to $500
  • Expulsion from school

Consent is NOT a defense. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the law still holds perpetrators accountable.

2. Civil Lawsuits Can Recover Millions

In addition to criminal charges, victims can file civil lawsuits to recover compensation for:

  • Medical bills (past and future)
  • Pain and suffering (physical and emotional)
  • Lost wages (if hazing affected academics or employment)
  • Punitive damages (to punish egregious conduct)

Our current case in Texas is seeking $10 million. Similar cases nationwide have resulted in multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements, including:

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

3. Who Can Be Held Liable?

In hazing cases, multiple parties can be sued, including:

  • The local fraternity/sorority chapter (for organizing hazing)
  • The national organization (for failing to prevent hazing)
  • The university/college (for failing to protect students)
  • Individual members (for participating in or facilitating hazing)
  • Alumni or advisors (for allowing hazing to occur)

In our Texas case, we are suing:
Pi Kappa Phi National (for knowing about hazing and failing to stop it)
The University of Houston (for owning the fraternity house where hazing occurred)
Individual fraternity members (for participating in abuse)

📞 What to Do If Your Child Was Hazed in Oklahoma

If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Marshall County, time is critical. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and legal deadlines approach. Here’s what to do right now:

1. Seek Medical Attention

  • Even if injuries seem minor, get medical documentation immediately.
  • Hazing injuries like rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) can be life-threatening if untreated.
  • Medical records are critical evidence for your case.

2. Preserve All Evidence

  • Take photos/videos of injuries, hazing locations, and any items used in hazing.
  • Save all communications (texts, GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, emails).
  • Write down everything your child remembers (dates, times, names, what happened).
  • Get witness contact information (other pledges, bystanders).

3. Do NOT Talk to the Fraternity or University Alone

  • They will try to control the narrative and minimize liability.
  • Do not sign anything without legal counsel.
  • Do not give statements to administrators, insurance companies, or lawyers for the fraternity.

4. Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney Immediately

  • Oklahoma’s statute of limitations is 2 years—but evidence disappears fast.
  • We offer free consultations—no upfront cost.
  • We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.

📞 Call Attorney 911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911
📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com

💰 What Compensation Could My Family Receive?

Every hazing case is different, but victims and families may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages (Actual Financial Losses)

  • Medical bills (ER visits, hospital stays, therapy, future treatment)
  • Lost wages (time missed from work or school)
  • Educational impact (tuition refunds, scholarship losses)
  • Future medical costs (dialysis, kidney transplant, therapy)

Non-Economic Damages (Pain and Suffering)

  • Physical pain (from injuries, medical treatment)
  • Emotional distress (PTSD, anxiety, depression, humiliation)
  • Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in normal activities)
  • Disfigurement (scars, permanent injuries)

Punitive Damages (To Punish Wrongdoers)

  • Awarded when conduct is intentional, reckless, or malicious.
  • Designed to deter future hazing by sending a financial message.

In our Texas case, we are seeking $10 million. Similar cases have resulted in verdicts and settlements ranging from $4 million to $110+ million.

🏛️ Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Oklahoma Hazing Case?

1. We Are Fighting This Fight Right Now

  • We are actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston.
  • We know exactly how these organizations operate—and how to hold them accountable.
  • We have media coverage from ABC13, KHOU 11, Houston Chronicle, and Houston Public Media.

2. We Have Decades of Litigation Experience

  • Ralph Manginello – 25+ years of trial experience, former insurance defense attorney (knows their playbook)
  • Lupe Pena – Former national defense firm attorney (knows how insurance companies minimize claims)
  • Federal court admission – Can pursue cases nationwide, including Oklahoma
  • Dual-state bar licenses – Texas and New York (strategic advantage for national fraternities)

3. We Understand the Unique Challenges of Hazing Cases

  • Fear of retaliation – Our client in Texas is afraid to speak publicly due to intimidation. We protect our clients.
  • Shame and embarrassment – Many victims don’t want to come forward. We provide compassionate, confidential representation.
  • Institutional cover-ups – Universities and fraternities will try to hide evidence. We know how to uncover the truth.

4. We Offer Free, No-Obligation Consultations

  • No upfront cost – We work on contingency (you pay nothing unless we win).
  • No pressure – We’ll evaluate your case honestly and explain your options.
  • Available 24/7 – Hazing emergencies don’t wait. Neither do we.

5. We Will Travel to Oklahoma for Your Case

  • We have offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, but we serve clients nationwide.
  • We will travel to Marshall County, Oklahoma for depositions, meetings, and trials.
  • We offer video consultations for Oklahoma families who cannot travel.

🚨 Warning Signs Your Child Is Being Hazed Near Marshall County

Hazing is often hidden, but these red flags may indicate your child is at risk:

Physical Signs Behavioral Signs Academic Signs
Unexplained bruises or injuries Withdrawal from family/friends Sudden drop in grades
Extreme fatigue or exhaustion Increased secrecy Skipping classes
Weight loss or dehydration Anxiety or depression Missing assignments
Difficulty walking or moving Nightmares or flashbacks Withdrawing from activities
Signs of alcohol poisoning Fear of certain people/places Drop in motivation
Unusual smells (alcohol, vomit) Changes in sleep patterns Talking about quitting school

If you notice these signs, act immediately. Hazing can escalate quickly and lead to serious injury or death.

📢 What Oklahoma Parents Need to Know About Greek Life

Many parents assume fraternities and sororities are safe, but the reality is hazing is widespread in Greek organizations near Marshall County. Here’s what you should know:

1. National Fraternities Have a History of Hazing Deaths

The same fraternities operating near Marshall County have been involved in fatal hazing incidents, including:

  • Pi Kappa Phi – Andrew Coffey (FSU, 2017), Leonel Bermudez (UH, 2025)
  • Pi Kappa Alpha – Stone Foltz (BGSU, 2021)
  • Phi Delta Theta – Maxwell Gruver (LSU, 2017)
  • Beta Theta Pi – Timothy Piazza (Penn State, 2017)

These aren’t isolated incidents—they’re part of a pattern.

2. Universities Near Marshall County Are Liable

Colleges and universities have a legal duty to protect students. If they:

  • Own or control fraternity/sorority houses (like UH did in our case)
  • Know about hazing but fail to stop it (like UH did with the 2017 Pike incident)
  • Have prior hazing incidents (like UH’s 2017 hospitalization)

They can be held financially responsible.

3. “No Hazing” Policies Are Not Enough

Most universities and fraternities have anti-hazing policies, but they rarely enforce them until someone gets hurt or dies.

In our Texas case:

  • Pi Kappa Phi had a “risk management policy” that was violated repeatedly.
  • UH had a prior hazing incident in 2017 and did nothing to prevent it from happening again.

Policies without enforcement are meaningless.

4. Consent Is Not a Defense

Some fraternities argue that victims “agreed” to participate. This is false.

Oklahoma law (21 O.S. § 1190) and Texas law (Education Code § 37.154) both state:

“Consent is not a defense to hazing.”

Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the law still holds perpetrators accountable.

5. Hazing Happens in More Than Just Fraternities

While fraternities are the most common offenders, hazing also occurs in:

  • Sororities (though less frequently reported)
  • Sports teams (football, baseball, wrestling, etc.)
  • Marching bands
  • ROTC programs
  • Honor societies
  • Student clubs and organizations

📞 Next Steps for Oklahoma Families

If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Marshall County, here’s what to do now:

1. Call Attorney 911 Immediately

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7)
📧 ralph@atty911.com

2. Schedule a Free, Confidential Consultation

  • We’ll listen to your story.
  • We’ll explain your legal rights.
  • We’ll outline your options—no pressure, no obligation.

3. Preserve Evidence

  • Do not delete any texts, social media posts, or photos.
  • Do not sign anything from the fraternity or university.
  • Do not talk to administrators, insurance companies, or lawyers for the fraternity.

4. Let Us Handle Everything

  • We’ll investigate the hazing and gather evidence.
  • We’ll identify all liable parties (fraternity, university, individuals).
  • We’ll negotiate with insurance companies so you don’t have to.
  • If necessary, we’ll take your case to trial and fight for maximum compensation.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions for Oklahoma Families

Q: My child was hazed in Texas but goes to school in Oklahoma. Can you still help?

A: Yes. We can represent victims nationwide, including Oklahoma students hazed in Texas or other states. Our federal court admission and dual-state licenses allow us to pursue cases across state lines.

Q: My child doesn’t want to get the fraternity in trouble. Should we still pursue legal action?

A: Hazing is not just about “getting in trouble”—it’s about preventing future harm. Our client in Texas is afraid of retribution, but his case has already led to the fraternity chapter being shut down. Your child’s case could save lives.

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

A: Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of the compensation we recover for you.

Q: What if the hazing happened months or years ago?

A: Oklahoma’s statute of limitations is 2 years, but exceptions may apply. Contact us immediately—even if you’re unsure whether you’re within the deadline.

Q: Can we sue the university even if they didn’t know about the hazing?

A: Yes. Universities have a duty to protect students, and they can be held liable if:

  • They own or control the property where hazing occurred.
  • They knew or should have known about hazing risks.
  • They failed to implement proper oversight of Greek organizations.

Q: What if my child was drinking or using drugs during the hazing?

A: This does not prevent you from pursuing a case. Many hazing incidents involve forced consumption of alcohol or drugs. Consent is not a defense, and fraternities cannot use your child’s actions to avoid responsibility for their own misconduct.

Q: How long does a hazing lawsuit take?

A: Most cases settle within 1-2 years, but complex cases (like our $10 million lawsuit) may take longer. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your compensation.

Q: Will my child have to testify in court?

A: Most cases settle before trial, but if your case goes to court, your child may need to testify. We prepare our clients thoroughly and provide emotional support throughout the process.

📢 A Message to Oklahoma Fraternities and Universities

To the fraternities operating near Marshall County:
We are watching. The same legal strategies that secured $10 million verdicts nationwide apply to your chapter. If you haze students in Oklahoma, we will pursue every liable entity—your national organization, your housing corporation, your individual members, and your advisors.

Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi—if your chapter operates near Marshall County, know that Attorney 911 represents hazing victims across America.

To the universities near Marshall County:
The same institutional negligence that made the University of Houston a defendant exists at your campus. If you own fraternity houses, if you have prior hazing incidents, if you fail to protect your students—you will be held accountable.

🚨 Act Now—Before It’s Too Late

Hazing doesn’t stop on its own. It takes brave victims and determined attorneys to force change. If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Marshall County, you have the power to stop this cycle.

Oklahoma Families: Call Attorney 911 Today

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com

We don’t just talk about hazing. We’re fighting it right now—and we’ll fight for your family too.

📌 Remember:

  • You are not alone.
  • Hazing is not tradition—it’s abuse.
  • The law is on your side.
  • We are here to help.

Marshall County families: Enough is enough. Let’s bring justice to Oklahoma.

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