🚨 Hazing Lawyers in Gilliam County, Oregon: Protecting Students from Fraternity and Sorority Abuse

Attorney 911 — Legal Emergency Lawyers™ Serving Gilliam County Hazing Victims

📞 24/7 Legal Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911
📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com
🌐 Website: attorney911.com

Gilliam County Families: The Hazing Crisis Has Reached Your Community

Gilliam County may be a quiet, rural community in Oregon, but the dangers of hazing are very real for students from your area. Whether your child attends college in Portland, Eugene, Corvallis, or even out of state, they face the same risks that hospitalized our client in Houston and have claimed lives nationwide.

This isn’t just happening “somewhere else.” It’s happening to Gilliam County students.

The same national fraternities involved in recent hazing deaths and lawsuits—Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, and others—operate chapters at universities near Gilliam County. The same “traditions” that led to our client’s hospitalization with kidney failure exist at institutions where Gilliam County students are pledging.

If your child is being hazed, we will fight for them. We are fighting this battle right now in court, and we’ll bring the same aggressive representation to Gilliam County families.

The Hazing Epidemic: What Gilliam County Parents Need to Know

Hazing Isn’t “Tradition”—It’s Abuse

Hazing isn’t harmless fun. It isn’t “building character.” It’s a dangerous, often illegal form of abuse that can lead to:

• Physical injuries (broken bones, burns, rhabdomyolysis, alcohol poisoning)
• Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression, suicide)
• Wrongful death (at least one hazing death has occurred every year since 2000)

In our current case, a University of Houston student was:

• Waterboarded with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
• Forced to perform 500 squats and 100+ pushups until he collapsed
• Struck with wooden paddles
• Forced to eat until vomiting, then made to continue running
• Hospitalized for 4 days with severe rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure

This same abuse happens at universities near Gilliam County. Your child could be next.

Universities Near Gilliam County Where Hazing Occurs

While Gilliam County itself is home to a small population, students from your area often attend larger universities where Greek life—and hazing—are prevalent. These are the institutions where Gilliam County students are at risk:

Oregon State University (Corvallis)

• Greek Life: 40+ fraternities and sororities
• Hazing History: Multiple reported incidents in recent years, including forced alcohol consumption and physical abuse
• Why Gilliam County Parents Should Be Concerned: OSU is a popular choice for Oregon students, including those from Gilliam County. The university has faced criticism for its handling of hazing reports.

University of Oregon (Eugene)

• Greek Life: 30+ fraternities and sororities
• Hazing History: Several high-profile hazing incidents, including alcohol-related hospitalizations and physical abuse
• Why Gilliam County Parents Should Be Concerned: UO is another major destination for Oregon students. Despite anti-hazing policies, hazing continues to be reported.

Portland State University

• Greek Life: Smaller but active Greek system
• Hazing History: Incidents of forced drinking and psychological abuse
• Why Gilliam County Parents Should Be Concerned: PSU attracts students from across Oregon, including Gilliam County. Hazing risks persist even in smaller Greek organizations.

Oregon Institute of Technology (Klamath Falls)

• Greek Life: Smaller but present
• Hazing History: Reports of physical and psychological hazing
• Why Gilliam County Parents Should Be Concerned: OIT is closer to Gilliam County and may be a more accessible option for local students.

Out-of-State Universities (Common for Gilliam County Students)

Many Gilliam County students attend colleges outside Oregon, where hazing is even more prevalent. Common destinations include:

• Washington State University (Pullman, WA)
• University of Idaho (Moscow, ID)
• Boise State University (Boise, ID)
• University of Washington (Seattle, WA)

These schools have all had documented hazing incidents, and their Greek organizations are overseen by the same national fraternities involved in recent lawsuits.

Why Gilliam County Families Choose Attorney 911 for Hazing Cases

1. We Are Fighting This Battle RIGHT NOW

We are currently litigating a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for hazing that hospitalized our client with kidney failure. This isn’t theoretical—we’re in the courtroom fighting for victims like your child.

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys—We Know Their Playbook

Both of our attorneys—Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena—worked for insurance companies before switching sides to represent victims. We know exactly how fraternities, universities, and their insurers try to minimize or deny claims. We use that insider knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize your recovery.

3. Nationwide Representation for Gilliam County Families

While we’re based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including in Oregon. We offer:

• Video consultations for Gilliam County families
• Willingness to travel to Oregon for depositions, trials, and client meetings
• Federal court authority (U.S. District Court admission)
• Dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York)

Distance is not a barrier to justice. If your child was hazed near Gilliam County, we will fight for them.

4. We Speak Spanish—Se Habla Español

Many hazing victims come from immigrant families who may not be fluent in English. We provide bilingual legal services to ensure language barriers don’t prevent Gilliam County families from seeking justice.

5. No Upfront Costs—You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning:

• $0 upfront to hire us
• We don’t get paid unless you get paid
• No risk—if we don’t win, you owe us nothing

This levels the playing field. Gilliam County families can fight powerful institutions without worrying about legal fees.

6. Proven Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results

We have recovered millions of dollars for victims of personal injury, wrongful death, and institutional negligence. Our experience includes:

• BP Texas City explosion litigation (mass tort experience)
• Wrongful death cases (families who lost loved ones)
• Catastrophic injury cases (brain injuries, spinal cord injuries)

We know how to build strong hazing cases and secure maximum compensation for Gilliam County victims.

What Constitutes Hazing in Oregon?

Oregon law defines hazing as any activity that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, admission, or membership in an organization. This includes:

Oregon Revised Statute § 163.197 makes hazing a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $6,250 fine. If hazing results in serious injury or death, the penalties increase significantly.

Consent is not a defense. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, Oregon law explicitly states that consent does not justify hazing.

Who Is Liable for Hazing in Gilliam County Cases?

When your child is hazed, multiple parties can be held legally and financially responsible. We pursue all liable defendants to maximize your recovery.

1. The Fraternity or Sorority Chapter

• Directly organizes and conducts hazing activities
• Chapter officers (president, pledgemaster, etc.) can be held personally liable
• Individual members who participate in or facilitate hazing

2. The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization

• Fails to supervise local chapters
• Ignores reports of hazing (as seen in our Pi Kappa Phi case)
• Has deep pockets—millions in assets and insurance coverage

3. The University or College

• Fails to monitor Greek life despite prior hazing incidents
• Owns or controls fraternity/sorority houses (premises liability)
• Ignores complaints or reports of hazing
• Allows dangerous organizations to operate on campus

4. Individual Perpetrators

• Chapter officers and members who directly participate in hazing
• Alumni or former members who host hazing events
• Anyone who aids or encourages hazing

5. Insurance Companies

• Liability insurance policies covering the fraternity, university, or individuals
• Homeowner’s insurance for off-campus hazing locations

We know how to identify and pursue all liable parties to ensure Gilliam County families receive full compensation.

What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Gilliam County or Nearby

If your child has been hazed, time is critical. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and statutes of limitations expire. Follow these steps immediately:

1. Seek Medical Attention

• Even if injuries seem minor, get a medical evaluation. Some injuries (like rhabdomyolysis or internal bleeding) may not be immediately apparent.
• Document everything. Medical records are crucial evidence.

2. Preserve All Evidence

• Take photos/videos of injuries, hazing locations, and any physical evidence (e.g., paddles, alcohol containers).
• Save all communications, including:
  • Text messages
  • GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs
  • Emails
  • Social media posts
• Get witness information (names and contact info of other pledges, bystanders, or anyone who saw the hazing).

3. Do NOT Confront the Organization Alone

• Do not talk to fraternity/sorority leaders, university administrators, or their lawyers without legal counsel.
• Do not sign anything from the organization.
• Do not post about the incident on social media.

4. Report the Hazing

• File a police report (hazing is a crime in Oregon).
• Report to the university (Title IX office or student conduct).
• Report to the national fraternity/sorority organization.

5. Contact Attorney 911 Immediately

• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation.
• We will guide you through the process and protect your rights.
• We will handle all communications with the fraternity, university, and insurance companies.

The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Damages We Pursue for Gilliam County Hazing Victims

Hazing can cause physical, emotional, and financial harm. We pursue full compensation for all damages, including:

Economic Damages (Financial Losses)

• Medical bills (hospital stays, ER visits, therapy, medications)
• Future medical expenses (ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, potential surgeries)
• Lost wages (time missed from work or internships)
• Lost earning capacity (if injuries affect future career prospects)
• Educational disruption (tuition refunds, scholarship losses, delayed graduation)

Non-Economic Damages (Pain and Suffering)

• Physical pain and suffering (the agony of injuries and recovery)
• Emotional distress (PTSD, anxiety, depression, fear of retribution)
• Humiliation and shame (psychological impact of hazing)
• Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in normal activities)
• Disfigurement (scars, burns, or permanent injuries)

Punitive Damages (Punishing the Wrongdoers)

• Awarded when conduct is egregious, reckless, or intentional
• Meant to punish the defendants and deter future hazing
• Applicable in cases involving waterboarding, forced consumption, or extreme physical abuse

Gilliam County families: We will fight for every dollar your child deserves.

Precedent Cases: Hazing Victims Win Millions

Hazing cases result in multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts. Here are some recent examples that show what Gilliam County families can recover:

1. Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha) — $10.1 Million

• What happened: Pledge forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol; died from alcohol poisoning.
• Outcome: $2.9 million from the university + $7.2 million from the fraternity and individuals.
• Why it matters for Gilliam County: Shows that universities and fraternities both pay when hazing occurs.

2. Maxwell Gruver (Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta) — $6.1 Million Jury Verdict

• What happened: Pledge forced to drink during “Bible Study” ritual; died from alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.495).
• Outcome: $6.1 million jury verdict; criminal convictions.
• Why it matters for Gilliam County: Juries hate hazing and award millions in damages.

3. Timothy Piazza (Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi) — $110+ Million (Estimated)

• What happened: Pledge forced to drink 18 drinks in 82 minutes; fell down stairs multiple times; fraternity members waited 12 hours to call 911.
• Outcome: Confidential settlement estimated at $110+ million; multiple criminal convictions.
• Why it matters for Gilliam County: Shows that strong evidence leads to massive settlements.

4. Leonel Bermudez (University of Houston / Pi Kappa Phi) — $10 Million Lawsuit (OUR CASE)

• What happened: Pledge waterboarded, forced to do 500 squats, struck with wooden paddles; hospitalized with kidney failure.
• Outcome: Lawsuit filed November 2025; case ongoing.
• Why it matters for Gilliam County: We are actively fighting this battle and will bring the same representation to Gilliam County victims.

Gilliam County families: These cases prove that hazing victims can—and do—win. We will fight for the same justice for your child.

Gilliam County Hazing Lawsuit: What to Expect

If your child was hazed, here’s what the legal process looks like:

1. Free Consultation

• We evaluate your case at no cost to you.
• We explain your legal rights and options.
• We answer all your questions.

2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering

• We obtain medical records, witness statements, and communications.
• We work with experts (medical, hazing culture, institutional negligence).
• We build a strong case against all liable parties.

3. Demand and Negotiation

• We send a demand letter to the fraternity, university, and insurance companies.
• We negotiate for a fair settlement.
• If they refuse to offer a reasonable amount, we file a lawsuit.

4. Litigation (If Necessary)

• We file a lawsuit in the appropriate court.
• We conduct discovery (depositions, document requests, interrogatories).
• We prepare for trial.

5. Resolution

• Most cases settle before trial.
• If necessary, we present your case to a jury.
• We fight for maximum compensation for your child.

Gilliam County families: We handle every step of the process so you can focus on your child’s recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions for Gilliam County Families

1. My child was hazed at a university near Gilliam County. Can you help us?

Yes. We represent hazing victims nationwide, including in Oregon. We offer video consultations and are willing to travel to Gilliam County for your case.

2. How much does it cost to hire a hazing lawyer?

Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning:

• You pay $0 to hire us.
• We only get paid if we win your case.
• Our fee is a percentage of your recovery, so there’s no risk to you.

3. What if my child “consented” to the hazing?

Consent is not a defense. Oregon law explicitly states that consent does not justify hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the fraternity and university can still be held liable.

4. What if the hazing happened off-campus?

It doesn’t matter. Hazing is illegal whether it occurs on or off campus. We can still pursue the fraternity, university, and individuals responsible.

5. What if my child is afraid of retribution?

We understand the fear of retaliation. We protect our clients’ identities and safety throughout the legal process. Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case was also afraid of retribution—we ensured his safety while holding the fraternity accountable.

6. How long do we have to file a lawsuit?

In Oregon, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is 2 years from the date of the injury. Do not wait. Evidence disappears, and your rights expire.

7. Can we sue the university if they didn’t know about the hazing?

Yes. Universities have a duty to protect students from foreseeable harm. If they failed to monitor Greek life or ignored prior hazing incidents, they can be held liable for negligent supervision.

8. What if the fraternity is already suspended or closed?

It doesn’t matter. The national organization and university can still be held liable. In our Pi Kappa Phi case, the chapter was closed before we filed the lawsuit—but we’re still pursuing the national organization and university.

9. What if my child was hazed at an out-of-state university?

We represent hazing victims nationwide. Whether the hazing occurred in Oregon, Washington, California, or any other state, we can help.

10. How much is my child’s case worth?

Every case is unique, but hazing cases often result in multi-million dollar settlements or verdicts. Factors that increase case value include:

• Severity of injuries (hospitalization, permanent damage)
• Egregiousness of conduct (waterboarding, forced consumption, physical abuse)
• Pattern of hazing (prior incidents at the same chapter or university)
• Institutional knowledge (if the university or fraternity knew about prior hazing)

Gilliam County Parents: You Are Not Alone

Hazing is a national crisis, and Gilliam County families are not immune. The same fraternities, the same universities, and the same dangerous “traditions” exist near your community.

But you don’t have to face this alone.

Attorney 911 is fighting this battle right now in court, and we’re ready to fight for Gilliam County families. We have the experience, the resources, and the determination to hold fraternities and universities accountable.

If your child has been hazed, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation.

Gilliam County Hazing Resources

Report Hazing

• Oregon State Police: https://www.oregon.gov/osp
• University Reporting:
  • Oregon State University: https://studentconduct.oregonstate.edu
  • University of Oregon: https://dos.uoregon.edu
  • Portland State University: https://www.pdx.edu/dos
• National Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)

Support for Victims

• National Hazing Prevention Network: https://hazingprevention.org
• RAINN (Sexual Assault Support): https://www.rainn.org | 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
• Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741

Oregon Hazing Laws

• Oregon Revised Statute § 163.197: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors163.html

Gilliam County Families: Take Action Now

The time to act is now. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and statutes of limitations expire. If your child has been hazed, call Attorney 911 immediately.

📞 24/7 Legal Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911

📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com

🌐 Website: attorney911.com

We are Attorney 911. We are Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena. And we are fighting for Gilliam County hazing victims.

Enough is enough.