🛡️ Union County Hazing Victims: Your Legal Rights and How to Fight Back

Attorney 911 — Nationwide Hazing Litigation Experts
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 | ✉️ ralph@atty911.com | 🌐 attorney911.com

🚨 The Hazing Crisis in Union County: What Families Need to Know

Union County families send their children to college expecting them to be safe. They trust universities to protect their students. They believe Greek organizations will provide mentorship and brotherhood.

That trust is being betrayed.

Hazing is happening at colleges and universities near Union County. The same national fraternities and sororities involved in deadly hazing incidents across America have active chapters in Pennsylvania. The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client at the University of Houston exist right here in Union County.

This is not “boys being boys.” This is not “building character.” This is abuse. This is assault. This is torture.

And it’s happening to Union County students.

🔍 What Is Hazing? (And Why It’s Illegal in Pennsylvania)

Hazing is any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them — regardless of whether they consent.

Common hazing activities reported in Pennsylvania and nationwide:

• Physical abuse: Beatings, paddling, branding, forced exercise to exhaustion
• Forced consumption: Alcohol (binge drinking), food (eating until vomiting), non-food substances
• Sleep deprivation: Late-night activities, forced early-morning commitments
• Psychological torture: Humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, threats
• Sexual abuse: Forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects
• Waterboarding/simulated drowning: A form of torture used in hazing incidents
• Exposure: Forced to endure extreme cold or heat, often while minimally clothed

Pennsylvania law is clear: Hazing is a crime.

Under the Pennsylvania Anti-Hazing Law (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2810), hazing is a misdemeanor of the third degree, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,500. If hazing results in serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a felony of the third degree, punishable by up to 7 years in prison.

Most importantly: Consent is NOT a defense. Even if a student “agrees” to participate, the law still considers it hazing.

💔 The Reality: Hazing Happens in Union County

You may think hazing is something that happens “somewhere else.” It’s not.

The same national fraternities involved in hazing deaths and lawsuits nationwide operate chapters at universities near Union County.

Universities Near Union County with Active Greek Life:

While we cannot comment on specific incidents at these institutions without verified information, we can confirm that the following universities near Union County have active Greek organizations:

• Bucknell University (Lewisburg, PA)
• Susquehanna University (Selinsgrove, PA)
• Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania (Bloomsburg, PA)
• Penn State University (State College, PA)
• University of Scranton (Scranton, PA)
• Wilkes University (Wilkes-Barre, PA)
• King’s College (Wilkes-Barre, PA)
• Misericordia University (Dallas, PA)
• Marywood University (Scranton, PA)

These institutions are home to chapters of the same national fraternities and sororities that have paid millions in hazing settlements, including:

• Pi Kappa Phi (involved in our $10 million lawsuit)
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (multiple hazing deaths)
• Pi Kappa Alpha (Stone Foltz case)
• Phi Delta Theta (Max Gruver case)
• Beta Theta Pi (Timothy Piazza case)

If these organizations have chapters near Union County, they face the same risks of hazing that we’re fighting in Texas.

🏥 What Happens to Hazing Victims? The Medical Consequences

Hazing isn’t just “a little rough initiation.” It causes real, lasting harm.

Physical Injuries:

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) — caused by extreme physical exertion (e.g., forced pushups, squats, runs). Can lead to kidney failure and death.
• Alcohol poisoning — forced binge drinking can cause respiratory failure, coma, or death.
• Traumatic brain injury — from beatings, falls, or being struck with objects.
• Broken bones — from paddling, beatings, or falls.
• Internal bleeding — from physical trauma.
• Hypothermia/hyperthermia — from exposure to extreme temperatures.
• Heart attacks — from extreme physical stress.
• Infections — from unclean environments or untreated wounds.

Psychological Trauma:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) — from abuse, humiliation, or near-death experiences.
• Anxiety and depression — from ongoing fear, shame, and isolation.
• Suicidal ideation — hazing victims are at higher risk of suicide.
• Trust issues — difficulty forming relationships after betrayal.
• Academic decline — inability to focus due to trauma.
• Substance abuse — self-medicating to cope with trauma.

Long-Term Consequences:

• Chronic health conditions — permanent organ damage, disability.
• Career limitations — physical or psychological barriers to employment.
• Financial burden — medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages.
• Lifetime of trauma — hazing doesn’t end when the semester does.

💰 The Cost of Hazing: Why Victims Deserve Compensation

Hazing victims and their families face massive financial, emotional, and physical costs. Compensation isn’t just about money — it’s about justice, accountability, and preventing future harm.

What Hazing Victims Can Sue For:

Precedent Cases: Hazing Victims Win Millions

Hazing cases do not settle for small amounts. Juries and institutions know the stakes. Here’s what other victims have recovered:

Union County families: These results are possible for you too.

⚖️ Who Is Liable? Who Can Union County Families Sue?

Hazing is never the fault of the victim. Multiple parties share responsibility — and liability.

1. The Local Chapter

• Why they’re liable: The local chapter directly organizes and conducts hazing activities.
• Who to sue: Chapter president, pledgemaster, active members, alumni who participate.
• Example: In the Stone Foltz case, the chapter president was held personally liable for $6.5 million.

2. The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization

• Why they’re liable: They set policies, provide oversight, and have the power to stop hazing. If they fail to act despite knowing about hazing, they share liability.
• Who to sue: National headquarters, national officers, board members.
• Example: Pi Kappa Phi National is a defendant in our $10 million lawsuit for failing to prevent hazing despite knowing about a “hazing crisis.”

3. The University

• Why they’re liable: Universities have a duty to protect students. If they know (or should know) about hazing and fail to stop it, they can be held accountable.
• Specific liabilities:
  • Premises liability: If the university owns or controls the fraternity house where hazing occurs.
  • Negligent supervision: If the university fails to monitor Greek life.
  • Institutional knowledge: If the university had prior hazing incidents and failed to act.
• Example: Bowling Green State University paid $2.9 million in the Stone Foltz case for failing to protect students.

4. Individual Perpetrators

• Why they’re liable: Every person who participates in, encourages, or fails to stop hazing can be held personally liable for assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
• Who to sue: Chapter officers, active members, alumni who host hazing events.
• Example: In the Timothy Piazza case, 18 fraternity members were criminally charged for their roles in the hazing.

5. Housing Corporations

• Why they’re liable: If hazing occurs at a fraternity or sorority house, the entity that owns or controls the property can be held liable for premises liability.
• Example: In our case, the Beta Nu Housing Corporation is named as a defendant.

6. Insurance Companies

• Why they’re liable: Most fraternities, universities, and individuals have liability insurance that covers hazing incidents.
• Key point: Insurance companies have deep pockets and will pay settlements. As former insurance defense attorneys, we know how to pursue these policies.

📋 What Should Union County Hazing Victims Do Right Now?

If you or your child has been hazed, time is critical. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Statutes of limitations expire.

🚨 Immediate Steps for Union County Hazing Victims:

1. Get Medical Attention

   • Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor.
   • Some injuries (like rhabdomyolysis) may not show symptoms immediately.
   • Medical records are critical evidence.

2. Preserve All Evidence

   • Do NOT delete anything — texts, social media posts, photos, videos.
   • Take screenshots of all communications about hazing.
   • Save physical evidence (clothing, objects used in hazing).
   • Write down everything you remember (dates, times, locations, participants).

3. Do NOT Talk to the Fraternity, Sorority, or University Without Legal Counsel

   • They will try to control the narrative.
   • They may ask you to sign documents — do not sign anything without a lawyer.
   • Anything you say can be used against you.

4. Do NOT Post on Social Media

   • Insurance companies and defense attorneys will use your posts against you.
   • Even innocent posts (“I’m fine!”) can be twisted to minimize your injuries.

5. Report the Incident (But Do It Safely)

   • Consider filing a police report.
   • Consider filing a Title IX report (if applicable).
   • But do not do this alone — have an attorney guide you.

6. Contact an Attorney Immediately

   • The 2-year statute of limitations in Pennsylvania starts running immediately.
   • Evidence disappears quickly.
   • Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation.

🛡️ Why Union County Families Choose Attorney 911

You have choices when hiring an attorney. But not all lawyers are equipped to handle hazing cases — especially against powerful institutions like universities and national fraternities.

✅ Here’s Why We’re the Right Choice for Union County Families:

1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now

   • 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 win.

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

   • Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked for insurance companies before switching sides.
   • We know their playbook.
   • We know how they try to minimize claims.
   • We use that knowledge to maximize your recovery.

3. Nationwide Reach — We Serve Union County

   • Based in Texas, but we represent hazing victims nationwide, including Union County.
   • Federal court authority — we can pursue cases anywhere in the U.S.
   • Dual-state bar licenses — Texas and New York.
   • We travel to Union County for depositions, trials, and client meetings.

4. Proven Track Record in High-Stakes Litigation

   • BP Texas City explosion litigation — mass tort experience against corporate defendants.
   • Multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts in personal injury cases.
   • Hazing-specific expertise — rhabdomyolysis, Kappa Sigma, Texas A&M cases.

5. We Speak Spanish — Se Habla Español

   • Hazing affects students from all backgrounds.
   • We provide bilingual legal services to Spanish-speaking families.
   • No language barriers to justice.

6. Contingency Fee — $0 Upfront

   • We understand that cost is a concern.
   • We work on contingency — you pay nothing unless we win.
   • No hourly fees, no retainers.
   • We take the risk so you can fight for justice.

7. We Treat You Like Family

   • Our client testimonials say it best:
     

     “This place feels like having a family over your case. And communication with you every step of the way. That’s how you know you’re in good hands.” — Kiwi Potato
     “They all go above and beyond and really care about you as a person. I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” — Ambur Hamilton

📞 Union County Families: Contact Us Now

Hazing is a legal emergency. We respond immediately.

How to Reach Us:

• 📞 Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7)
• ✉️ Email: ralph@atty911.com
• 🌐 Website: attorney911.com (live chat available)

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

1. We listen to your story.
2. We evaluate your case.
3. We explain your legal rights.
4. We outline your options.
5. No pressure, no obligation.

We Come to Union County:

• For depositions
• For client meetings
• For trials
• Distance is not a barrier to justice.

🎯 Our Promise to Union County Families

1. We will listen. Your story matters.
2. We will fight. We don’t back down from powerful institutions.
3. We will win. We have the experience, the strategy, and the determination.
4. We will protect you. From retaliation, from intimidation, from injustice.
5. We will prevent future harm. Your case can save other Union County families from the same nightmare.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions for Union County Families

Q: My child was hazed, but they don’t want to report it. What should I do?

A: We understand the fear of retaliation. Many hazing victims are afraid to come forward. But silence protects the abusers. We can help you report safely and pursue justice while protecting your child’s identity.

Q: The fraternity says my child “consented” to hazing. Is that a defense?

A: No. Pennsylvania law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the law still considers it hazing — and it’s still illegal.

Q: We’re not in Texas. Can you still help us?

A: Absolutely. We represent hazing victims nationwide, including Union County. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses allow us to pursue cases anywhere in the U.S.

Q: How much will this cost us?

A: $0 upfront. We work on contingency — you pay nothing unless we win. Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict, so there’s no financial risk to your family.

Q: How long will this take?

A: Every case is different. Some settle within months. Others take years. We work as quickly as possible to get you the justice you deserve, but we won’t rush a fair settlement.

Q: Will this affect my child’s academic record or future?

A: We take steps to protect your child’s privacy and academic standing. Many hazing cases result in confidential settlements that don’t become part of public records.

Q: What if the university tries to cover it up?

A: Universities often try to protect their reputation. We know how to expose the truth. We’ve dealt with institutional cover-ups before, and we won’t let them silence your child.

Q: Can we sue even if there were no criminal charges?

A: Yes. Criminal charges and civil lawsuits are separate processes. Even if no one is criminally charged, you can still sue for compensation.

📢 A Message to Union County Fraternities and Sororities

To the chapters operating near Union County:

We know who you are. We track your national organizations. We know your corporate structures. We know your insurance policies.

To Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi, and every other national organization with chapters near Union County:

The same legal strategies that secured $10 million verdicts nationwide apply to your chapters. The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client in Houston exist in your Union County chapters.

If you haze students in Union County, we will find every liable entity. We will pursue every insurance policy. We will hold every individual accountable.

The Beta Nu chapter at University of Houston? Shut down. Charter surrendered. Criminal referrals initiated. Our client’s $10 million lawsuit is ongoing.

Your Union County chapter could be next.

🏆 Our Mission: Justice for Union County Hazing Victims

We didn’t choose to become hazing litigation experts. The crisis chose us.

We’re fighting this battle because no family should lose a child to hazing. No student should be tortured in the name of “brotherhood.” No institution should get away with allowing abuse.

Union County families: You are not alone. We are here to fight for you. We are here to hold the abusers accountable. We are here to make sure this never happens to another Union County student.

Enough is enough.

Call us now: 1-888-ATTY-911.

📜 Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. Contact Attorney 911 for a free consultation to discuss your specific situation. Attorney-client relationship is not established until a retainer agreement is signed.

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