🛡️ Hazing Victims in Jefferson County, Oregon — Legal Rights & Justice
If your child was hazed at a Jefferson County college or university, you are not alone. The same fraternities that waterboarded a student in Texas have chapters near Jefferson County. The same institutional failures that allowed a student to be hospitalized in Houston exist at Jefferson County institutions. And the same legal rights that are winning $10 million lawsuits in Texas apply to Jefferson County families.
At Attorney 911, we are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know how to build these cases. We know how to hold institutions accountable. And we will fight for Jefferson County families with the same fury we’re bringing to this case.
Jefferson County parents: Your child’s safety is not negotiable. The legal rights of hazing victims in Oregon are clear. And justice is within reach.
🚨 The Hazing Crisis in Jefferson County — What Parents Need to Know
Jefferson County is home to Central Oregon Community College (COCC) in nearby Bend, and many Jefferson County students attend universities across Oregon where Greek life thrives. The same national fraternities involved in hazing deaths and hospitalizations nationwide — Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi — have active chapters at Oregon universities near Jefferson County.
This is not just a Texas problem. This is a Jefferson County problem. This is an Oregon problem. This is an American problem.
What Hazing Looks Like in Jefferson County
Hazing in Jefferson County and across Oregon takes many forms, but it always involves abuse, coercion, and danger. Based on our current case and documented incidents nationwide, hazing near Jefferson County may include:
| Category | Examples | Jefferson County Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Abuse | Beatings, paddling, branding, forced exercise to exhaustion | High — seen in our current case |
| Forced Consumption | Alcohol (binge drinking), food (eating until vomiting), non-food substances | High — common in Greek life hazing |
| Waterboarding/Drowning | Simulated drowning, water torture, held underwater | Confirmed in our current case — Pi Kappa Phi waterboarded a student with a garden hose |
| Sleep Deprivation | Forced late nights, early mornings, disrupted sleep | High — used to break down victims |
| Psychological Torture | Humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, threats, isolation | High — documented in multiple cases |
| Sexual Abuse | Forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects, sexual assault | Present — seen in other cases |
| Exposure | Cold weather exposure, heat exposure, confined spaces | High — Oregon weather creates additional risks |
| Servitude | Forced cleaning, driving, errands for members | High — common in pledge programs |
Jefferson County families: If your child experienced any of these activities, they were hazed. And they have legal rights.
⚠️ The Landmark Case That Shows Jefferson County Families What’s Possible
Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi — $10 Million Lawsuit (2025)
This case happened in Houston. But it could happen in Jefferson County. It could happen to your child.
Plaintiff: Leonel Bermudez — a “ghost rush” (not even enrolled at University of Houston yet)
Fraternity: Pi Kappa Phi
University: University of Houston
Injuries: Severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure — required 3 nights, 4 days in the hospital
Hazing Activities: Waterboarding, 500 squats, 100+ pushups, wooden paddles, forced eating until vomiting, sleep deprivation
Damages Sought: $10 MILLION
Status: Lawsuit filed November 21, 2025 — active litigation
Media Coverage:
- ABC13 Houston: Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge
- KHOU 11: $10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations
- Houston Chronicle: UH fraternity hazing lawsuit
- Houston Public Media: University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing
Why This Case Matters to Jefferson County Families
- Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters across America — including at universities near Jefferson County
- The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client happen at Jefferson County-area fraternities
- Universities near Jefferson County face the same liability failures as UH
- If your child is being hazed in Jefferson County, we will fight for you just like we’re fighting in Houston
- $10 million sends a message — this is the price for torturing our kids
From our attorneys:
“When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure.” — Ralph Manginello
“If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” — Lupe Pena
🏛️ Who Is Liable for Hazing in Jefferson County?
Hazing doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Multiple parties share responsibility when a Jefferson County student is hazed:
| Defendant | Why They’re Liable | Jefferson County Application |
|---|---|---|
| Local Chapter | Directly organized and conducted hazing | Any fraternity/sorority chapter near Jefferson County |
| Chapter Officers | Leadership responsibility; directed activities | President, Pledgemaster, Risk Manager at Jefferson County-area chapters |
| Individual Members | Participated in hazing, failed to stop it | Any member who participated or witnessed and did nothing |
| National Organization | Failed to supervise chapter; knew about “hazing crisis” | Pi Kappa Phi, SAE, Pike, etc. — nationals with Jefferson County chapters |
| University/College | Failed to prevent hazing; premises liability | Central Oregon Community College, Oregon State University-Cascades, University of Oregon, etc. |
| Housing Corporation | Owned/controlled property where hazing occurred | Any house corporation for Greek housing near Jefferson County |
| Former Members | Hosted hazing at their residence | Alumni or former members who facilitate hazing |
| Spouses of Members | Allowed hazing at their home | Premises liability for hosting hazing |
Jefferson County families: We sue EVERYONE responsible. We don’t let anyone hide.
⚖️ Legal Rights of Hazing Victims in Oregon
Oregon Hazing Laws — What Jefferson County Families Need to Know
Oregon Revised Statutes § 163.197 — Hazing
Definition:
“Hazing” means any act that:
(a) Is committed for the purpose of initiating, admitting into, affiliating with or as a condition for continued membership in a student organization; and
(b) Recklessly endangers the physical health or safety of a student or causes a student to suffer substantial mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment or ridicule.
Criminal Penalties:
| Offense | Classification | Punishment |
|---|---|---|
| Hazing | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in jail; up to $6,250 fine |
| Hazing causing serious physical injury | Class C Felony | Up to 5 years in prison; up to $125,000 fine |
Institutional Liability:
- Organizations can be penalized
- Universities can lose funding
- Fraternities/sororities can be banned
Consent is NOT a Defense:
Oregon law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the organization can still be held liable.
Jefferson County Application: These same criminal and civil liability principles apply to hazing at Central Oregon Community College, Oregon State University-Cascades, University of Oregon, and other institutions near Jefferson County.
Civil Liability — What Jefferson County Victims Can Sue For
Hazing victims in Jefferson County can pursue compensation through civil lawsuits for:
-
Negligence
- Duty of care owed to students
- Breach of that duty through hazing
- Causation of injuries
- Damages
-
Assault and Battery
- Intentional harmful contact
- Each participant can be sued individually
-
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
- Outrageous conduct
- Severe emotional distress
-
Premises Liability
- Property owner responsibility
- Dangerous conditions allowed to exist
-
Negligent Supervision
- National organization failed to supervise chapter
- University failed to monitor Greek life
Jefferson County families: These civil claims exist under Oregon law and allow victims to pursue compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
💰 Damages Available to Jefferson County Hazing Victims
Economic Damages — The Financial Costs of Hazing
| Category | Examples | Jefferson County Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Past Medical Expenses | Hospital bills, ER visits, medications, therapy | Medical treatment for hazing injuries |
| Future Medical Expenses | Ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, specialists | Long-term health consequences |
| Lost Wages | Time missed from work during recovery | Jefferson County students with jobs |
| Lost Earning Capacity | Permanent injuries affecting future career | Jefferson County students’ future potential |
| Educational Damages | Tuition for lost semesters, delayed graduation | Disruption to education plans |
Non-Economic Damages — The Human Cost of Hazing
| Category | Examples | Jefferson County Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Pain & Suffering | Pain from injuries, medical treatment | The agony of hazing injuries |
| Mental Anguish | Fear, humiliation, trauma from abuse | Psychological harm from hazing |
| Emotional Distress | PTSD, anxiety, depression | Long-term psychological damage |
| Loss of Enjoyment | Inability to participate in normal activities | Impact on college experience |
| Disfigurement | Scars, permanent injuries | Visible reminders of abuse |
Punitive Damages — Punishing Egregious Conduct
Punitive damages are awarded when conduct is:
- Grossly negligent
- Reckless
- Intentional
- Designed to harm
Hazing meets this standard. Punitive damages send a message that this conduct will not be tolerated.
Jefferson County families: Multi-million dollar verdicts are possible. The same legal strategies that won $10 million in Texas apply to Oregon cases.
📋 What Jefferson County Families Should Do If Their Child Is Hazed
Immediate Action Protocol for Jefferson County Hazing Victims
| Step | Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ensure safety | Remove victim from dangerous situation immediately |
| 2 | Seek medical attention | Even if injuries seem minor — document everything medically |
| 3 | Preserve all evidence | Photos, videos, texts, social media, witness names |
| 4 | Do NOT talk to the organization | They will try to control the narrative and destroy evidence |
| 5 | Do NOT post on social media | Anything you post can be used against you |
| 6 | Report to authorities | Consider filing police report; Title IX report if applicable |
| 7 | Contact an attorney | Free consultations available — know your rights |
Jefferson County families: Time is critical. Evidence disappears. Memories fade. Statutes of limitations expire. Act now.
Evidence Preservation Checklist for Jefferson County Families
PRESERVE EVERYTHING:
| Evidence Type | What To Save |
|---|---|
| Medical Records | Hospital records, ER visits, doctor notes, therapy records |
| Photos/Videos | Injuries at all stages of healing, hazing activities if any exist |
| Communications | Text messages, GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, emails |
| Witness Information | Names and contact info of other pledges, witnesses, bystanders |
| Documents | Pledge manuals, schedules, rules given to your child |
| Financial Records | Medical bills, lost wages, tuition/fees paid |
| Academic Records | Impact on grades, enrollment, scholarships |
DO NOT:
- Delete ANY messages or posts
- Talk to fraternity/sorority leadership without legal counsel
- Sign anything from the organization
- Post about the incident on social media
- Give statements to university administration alone
🎓 Universities Near Jefferson County — Greek Life and Hazing Risks
Jefferson County families should be aware of Greek life presence at institutions near Jefferson County:
| Institution | Location | Greek Life Presence | Hazing Risk Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Oregon Community College (COCC) | Bend, OR (near Jefferson County) | Limited Greek life | Smaller risk, but still present |
| Oregon State University-Cascades | Bend, OR (near Jefferson County) | Active Greek life | Growing campus with Greek organizations |
| University of Oregon | Eugene, OR | Large Greek system | Multiple fraternities/sororities with hazing histories |
| Oregon State University | Corvallis, OR | Large Greek system | Multiple fraternities/sororities with hazing histories |
| Portland State University | Portland, OR | Active Greek life | Urban campus with Greek organizations |
| Southern Oregon University | Ashland, OR | Active Greek life | Smaller campus, but Greek presence |
Jefferson County parents: If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority at any of these institutions, they face the same risks that hospitalized our client in Houston.
🔍 Warning Signs of Hazing in Jefferson County
Jefferson County parents should watch for these red flags:
| Category | Warning Signs |
|---|---|
| Behavioral Changes | Withdrawal, anxiety, depression, mood swings |
| Physical Signs | Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, limping, exhaustion |
| Academic Impact | Declining grades, missed classes, dropped courses |
| Social Changes | Spending all time with Greek organization; avoiding old friends |
| Financial Changes | Unexplained expenses, requests for money |
| Communication | Secretive about activities; vague about whereabouts |
| Schedule Changes | Late nights, early mornings, unexplained absences |
Jefferson County parents: Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is.
📞 How Jefferson County Families Can Reach Us
Jefferson County hazing victims and families — we are here to help.
Legal Emergency Hotline for Jefferson County Hazing Victims:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com
Service Options for Jefferson County Families:
- Free initial consultation — Know your rights at no cost
- Video consultations — Meet with us remotely from Jefferson County
- Travel to Jefferson County — We come to you for meetings, depositions, trials
- 24/7 availability — Hazing emergencies don’t wait for business hours
We work on CONTINGENCY — $0 upfront for Jefferson County families. We don’t get paid unless YOU get paid.
🏢 Our Offices Serving Jefferson County
While we are based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including Jefferson County, Oregon. Our offices:
Houston Office (Headquarters)
Attorney 911
1177 W Loop S Suite 1600
Houston, TX 77027
Phone: (713) 528-9070
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Austin Office
Attorney 911
Phone: (713) 528-9070
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Beaumont Office
Attorney 911
Phone: (713) 528-9070
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Jefferson County families: Distance is not a barrier. We will fight for you no matter where you are.
🎯 Why Jefferson County Families Choose Attorney 911
1. We Are Currently Fighting This Battle
- We are actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston
- This is not theoretical — we’re in the fight RIGHT NOW
- Jefferson County families get the same aggressive representation
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys
- Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked for insurance companies before switching sides
- We know their playbook — now we use it against them
- We know how to maximize recovery for victims
3. Federal Court Authority
- Admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
- Can pursue Jefferson County cases in federal court if needed
- Dual-state bar licenses (Texas AND New York)
4. Hazing-Specific Expertise
- Direct experience with fraternity litigation
- Rhabdomyolysis injury cases
- University accountability cases
- Pattern evidence development
5. Multi-Million Dollar Case Experience
- BP Texas City explosion litigation (15 deaths, 180+ injuries)
- $10 million hazing demand in current case
- Wrongful death and catastrophic injury experience
6. Bilingual Services for Jefferson County
- Se habla español
- Spanish-speaking staff available
- Eliminate language barriers to justice
7. Contingency Fee Representation
- $0 upfront — Jefferson County families pay nothing to hire us
- We don’t get paid unless we win your case
- Level the playing field against institutions with deep pockets
8. We Come to Jefferson County
- Travel for depositions, client meetings, trials
- Video consultations available
- Jefferson County families don’t have to travel to Texas
9. Proven Track Record
- 4.9 Stars on Google — 250+ reviews
- Hundreds of cases won
- Media coverage of high-profile cases
- Client testimonials speak to our dedication
📚 Jefferson County Hazing Resources
Oregon Anti-Hazing Organizations
| Organization | Website | Services |
|---|---|---|
| StopHazing | stophazing.org | Research, education, prevention |
| HazingPrevention.Org | hazingprevention.org | Education, training, resources |
| Clery Center | clerycenter.org | Campus safety resources |
| Gordie Center | gordie.org | Alcohol education, hazing prevention |
Oregon-Specific Resources
| Resource | Contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon State Police | 911 (emergency) | Report criminal hazing |
| Oregon Department of Justice | doj.state.or.us | Consumer protection, legal resources |
| Central Oregon Community College (COCC) Title IX | cocc.edu/titleix | Report hazing, sexual misconduct |
| University of Oregon Dean of Students | dos.uoregon.edu | Report student conduct issues |
| Oregon State University Student Conduct | studentlife.oregonstate.edu/conduct | Report hazing incidents |
National Hotlines
| Hotline | Number | Services |
|---|---|---|
| National Hazing Hotline | 1-888-NOT-HAZE | Anonymous reporting |
| National Sexual Assault Hotline | 1-800-656-HOPE | Confidential support |
| Crisis Text Line | Text HOME to 741741 | 24/7 crisis support |
| National Suicide Prevention Lifeline | 988 | Mental health support |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions for Jefferson County Families
Q: My child was hazed in Jefferson County — can you help even though you’re in Texas?
A: Absolutely. We serve hazing victims nationwide, including Jefferson County. Our federal court authority and willingness to travel mean distance is not a barrier. We’ve represented clients across America, and we will fight for Jefferson County families with the same dedication.
Q: What is the statute of limitations for hazing lawsuits in Oregon?
A: In Oregon, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is 2 years from the date of injury. For wrongful death cases, it’s 3 years from the date of death. However, there may be exceptions for delayed discovery or minors. Do not wait — contact us immediately to preserve your rights.
Q: The fraternity says my child consented to the activities. Does that matter?
A: No. Oregon law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the organization can still be held liable. This is a legal principle that protects victims from coercion and peer pressure.
Q: How much is my child’s hazing case worth?
A: Every case is different, but hazing cases can be worth millions of dollars depending on:
- The severity of injuries
- The egregiousness of the conduct
- The number of defendants
- The evidence available
- The impact on your child’s life
Our current hazing case is seeking $10 million. Other hazing cases have resulted in:
- $10.1 million (Stone Foltz, Ohio)
- $6.1 million (Max Gruver, Louisiana)
- $110+ million (Timothy Piazza, Pennsylvania)
Q: Will my child have to go to court?
A: Most cases settle out of court. However, if the defendants refuse to offer fair compensation, we are prepared to take your case to trial. We have extensive trial experience and will fight for your child in the courtroom if necessary.
Q: How much does it cost to hire Attorney 911 for a Jefferson County hazing case?
A: Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing to hire us. We only get paid if we win your case, and our fee comes as a percentage of the recovery. This allows Jefferson County families to fight powerful institutions without financial risk.
Q: What if my child is afraid to come forward?
A: We understand. Hazing victims often fear retribution, social ostracism, or being labeled a “snitch.” Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case was “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution.” We protect our clients’ identities and safety. Your child’s well-being is our top priority.
Q: The university says they didn’t know about the hazing. Are they still liable?
A: Yes. Universities have a duty to protect students. If they had reason to know hazing was occurring (prior incidents, complaints, Greek life culture), they can be held liable for failing to act. In our current case, the University of Houston owned the fraternity house where hazing occurred — they are absolutely liable.
Q: Can we sue the national fraternity organization?
A: Absolutely. National organizations often have deep pockets and insurance policies that cover hazing incidents. They have a duty to supervise their chapters. In our current case, Pi Kappa Phi National is a named defendant because they knew about “a hazing crisis” and failed to prevent it.
Q: What if my child was hazed at a community college like COCC?
A: You can still sue. While community colleges may have smaller Greek life programs, they still have a duty to protect students. Hazing is illegal regardless of the type of institution. We will pursue all liable parties, including the college, Greek organizations, and individuals.
Q: How long does a hazing lawsuit take?
A: Hazing cases can take 1-3 years depending on the complexity, number of defendants, and whether the case goes to trial. Some cases settle faster if the evidence is strong and the defendants want to avoid negative publicity. We work to resolve cases as efficiently as possible while maximizing recovery for our clients.
Q: Can we file both a criminal complaint and a civil lawsuit?
A: Yes. Criminal and civil cases are separate. A criminal case is brought by the state to punish the wrongdoer. A civil case is brought by the victim to recover compensation. They can proceed simultaneously. In our current case, the University of Houston spokesperson mentioned “potential criminal charges,” while we are pursuing a $10 million civil lawsuit.
Q: What if my child is an international student?
A: We can still help. Your child’s immigration status does not affect their right to pursue compensation for hazing injuries. We have experience representing international students and can guide you through the process while protecting your child’s visa status.
Q: The hazing happened off-campus. Can we still sue the university?
A: Yes. Even if hazing occurs off-campus, universities can still be liable if:
- They knew or should have known about the hazing
- They failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it
- The hazing was connected to the organization’s activities
- The university had a duty to protect students from foreseeable harm
🚀 Next Steps for Jefferson County Families
If your child has been hazed in Jefferson County or at any Oregon institution, here’s what to do next:
- Call us immediately — 1-888-ATTY-911
- Schedule a free consultation — In person, by phone, or video
- Preserve all evidence — We’ll guide you on what to save
- Do not talk to the organization — Let us handle all communications
- Focus on your child’s recovery — We’ll handle the legal fight
Jefferson County families: You are not alone. We are fighting this battle right now. And we will fight for you.
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com | attorney911.com
Jefferson County hazing victims deserve justice. We are here to deliver it.
