Hazing Victims in Providence County: Your Legal Rights and Path to Justice

When Tradition Becomes Torture: The Hazing Crisis in Providence County

Providence 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 do 500 squats until their muscles break down, or hospitalized with kidney failure from hazing rituals disguised as “brotherhood.” Yet this is exactly what’s happening at universities across America – including institutions near Providence County.

The same fraternities that operate at Brown University, Providence College, Johnson & Wales University, and other Providence County-area schools have chapters that have paid millions in settlements for hazing deaths and injuries nationwide. The same national organizations that oversee Greek life in Providence County have a documented history of failing to prevent systemic abuse. And the same universities that accept tuition from Providence County families have repeatedly failed to protect students from these dangerous traditions.

At Attorney 911, we’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing case against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston – a case that proves hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or “harmless fun.” It’s a culture of abuse that can lead to life-threatening injuries, permanent trauma, and even death. Providence County families deserve to know that if their child is hazed, they have legal options – and we have the experience to fight for them.

The Shocking Reality of Hazing in Providence County Schools

Hazing isn’t limited to large state universities. It happens at private colleges, community colleges, and even prestigious institutions throughout Rhode Island. Providence County students face the same risks as students in Texas, Florida, and Pennsylvania – risks that have led to:

• Waterboarding and simulated drowning – A form of torture when used on enemy combatants, now being used on college students in Providence County-area fraternities
• Forced consumption to the point of vomiting – Students made to eat or drink until they’re sick, then forced to continue activities
• Extreme physical punishment – 500 squats, 100 pushups, bear crawls, and other exercises taken to dangerous extremes
• Sleep deprivation – Forced late-night activities that leave students exhausted and vulnerable
• Psychological abuse – Humiliation, threats, and degradation designed to break students down
• Sexual humiliation – Forced to carry sexual objects or endure sexually degrading activities

These aren’t isolated incidents. They’re part of a systemic culture that exists at fraternities, sororities, sports teams, marching bands, and other student organizations throughout Providence County and beyond.

The Providence County Hazing Case That’s Changing Everything

Right now, our attorneys Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena are representing Leonel Bermudez in a landmark $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This case proves that hazing can happen anywhere – and that Providence County families need to be prepared.

What Happened to Leonel Bermudez – And What Could Happen to Your Child

Leonel Bermudez was a “ghost rush” – a prospective member who wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet when he accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi. Over seven weeks in Fall 2025, he was subjected to systematic abuse that included:

• Waterboarding with a garden hose – Simulated drowning while doing calisthenics
• Forced to do 500+ squats and 100+ pushups – Until he collapsed from exhaustion
• Struck with wooden paddles – Physical assault with weapons
• Forced eating until vomiting – Consuming milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until sick
• Sleep deprivation – Forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours
• Psychological torture – Threats of expulsion, carrying sexual objects, being hog-tied
• Another pledge collapsed unconscious – The fraternity kept hazing despite clear danger signs

On November 3, 2025, Bermudez was punished for missing an event with extreme exercise that left him unable to stand. He crawled up the stairs when he got home. The next day, he couldn’t move. His mother rushed him to the hospital where he was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure – conditions that can be fatal if untreated.

He spent four days in the hospital fighting for his life while the fraternity that did this to him began planning their comeback.

Why This Case Matters for Providence County Families

1. The same fraternities operate in Providence County – Pi Kappa Phi has chapters at universities across America, including near Providence County. If they’re waterboarding students in Texas, how do we know they’re not doing it in Rhode Island?

2. Universities in Providence County have the same oversight failures – The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where hazing occurred. Providence County universities have the same power to regulate Greek life – and the same liability when they fail.

3. National organizations have a documented pattern of negligence – Pi Kappa Phi knew about their “hazing crisis” and did nothing. The same nationals oversee chapters near Providence County.

4. This could happen to your child – Bermudez wasn’t even a student yet. He was just trying to join a brotherhood. Your Providence County child could be next.

5. $10 million sends a message – This is what it costs when you torture students. Providence County families can demand the same accountability.

Who Is Liable for Hazing in Providence County?

When hazing happens, multiple parties share responsibility – and Providence County families can hold them all accountable:

1. The Local Chapter

The Providence County chapter that organized and conducted the hazing is directly liable. This includes:

• Chapter officers (president, pledgemaster, etc.)
• Active members who participated
• Members who witnessed and failed to stop the abuse

2. The National Organization

National fraternities and sororities like Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and others that oversee Providence County chapters can be held liable for:

• Failing to enforce anti-hazing policies
• Failing to supervise local chapters
• Maintaining a culture that enables hazing
• Having prior knowledge of hazing problems

3. The University

Providence County universities can be held liable for:

• Premises liability – If they own or control the property where hazing occurs
• Negligent supervision – Failing to monitor Greek organizations
• Institutional knowledge – If they knew or should have known about hazing risks
• Failure to protect students – Breaching their duty of care

4. Individual Perpetrators

Every person who participated in or facilitated hazing can be sued individually, including:

• Chapter officers
• Active members
• Former members who hosted hazing events
• Spouses who allowed hazing at their homes

5. Insurance Companies

The real money comes from:

• National organization’s liability insurance
• University’s institutional insurance
• Homeowner’s insurance (for off-campus locations)
• Individual liability policies

Providence County Hazing Laws: What Families Need to Know

While our firm is based in Texas, we can represent Providence County families through our federal court authority and commitment to traveling wherever justice demands. Rhode Island has its own hazing laws that protect students:

Rhode Island General Laws § 11-21-1 – Hazing Prohibited

• Makes hazing a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in prison and $1,000 fine
• Applies to any organization (fraternities, sororities, sports teams, etc.)
• Consent is not a defense – Even if a student “agreed” to participate, it’s still illegal

Rhode Island General Laws § 11-21-2 – Duty to Report

• Requires immediate reporting of hazing incidents
• Failure to report is also a misdemeanor

Civil Liability for Providence County Families

In addition to criminal penalties, Providence County families can sue for:

• Negligence – Duty of care was breached
• Assault and battery – Physical abuse
• Intentional infliction of emotional distress – Psychological trauma
• Premises liability – If hazing occurred on university property
• Wrongful death – If hazing leads to fatality

The Multi-Million Dollar Precedents: What Providence County Victims Can Win

Hazing cases result in multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts because juries understand the severity of the harm. These aren’t just “college pranks” – they’re life-altering events that deserve serious compensation.

Recent Hazing Case Outcomes:

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

   • Pledge forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol
   • Died from alcohol poisoning
   • University paid $2.9 million
   • Fraternity paid $7.2 million

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

   • Forced drinking during “Bible Study” event
   • Died with BAC of 0.495 (more than 6x legal limit)
   • Led to Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony in Louisiana

3. Timothy Piazza (Beta Theta Pi, Penn State University) – $110+ Million

   • Forced to drink 18 drinks in 82 minutes
   • Fell down stairs multiple times
   • Fraternity waited 12 hours to call 911
   • Led to Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania

4. Andrew Coffey (Pi Kappa Phi, Florida State University) – Confidential Settlement

   • Forced to drink entire bottle of bourbon
   • Died from acute alcohol poisoning
   • Same fraternity as our current case

These cases prove that Providence County families can win substantial compensation when their children are hazed. The same legal strategies that won millions in these cases apply to Providence County victims.

What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Providence County

If your child has been hazed at a Providence County-area university, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and statutes of limitations apply. Here’s what to do:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

• Even if injuries seem minor, get them checked
• Document everything medically – this creates a paper trail
• Some injuries (like rhabdomyolysis) may not show symptoms immediately

2. Preserve All Evidence

• Photos/videos – Document injuries at all stages of healing
• Screenshots – Save all text messages, social media posts, GroupMe chats
• Physical evidence – Clothing, objects used in hazing, etc.
• Witness information – Get names and contact info of other victims/witnesses
• Medical records – Request copies of all treatment records

3. Do NOT Talk to the Organization

• They will try to control the narrative
• Anything you say can be used against you
• They may pressure you to sign documents waiving your rights

4. Do NOT Post on Social Media

• Insurance companies and defendants will monitor your accounts
• Posts showing you “having fun” can be used to minimize your claim
• Even innocent posts can be twisted against you

5. Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney Immediately

• Statutes of limitations apply – In Rhode Island, you typically have 3 years to file a personal injury lawsuit
• Evidence disappears quickly – Organizations destroy records, witnesses forget details
• Insurance companies will contact you – They’ll try to get you to settle for less than you deserve

Why Providence County Families Choose Attorney 911

When your child has been hazed, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal emergency response team that understands the unique challenges of hazing cases. Here’s why Providence County families trust us:

1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now

While other firms talk about hazing, we’re actively litigating a $10 million case against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. Providence County families get the same aggressive representation we’re bringing to this landmark case.

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked for insurance companies before switching sides to represent victims. We know exactly how they think, how they value cases, and how they try to minimize claims. We use that insider knowledge to maximize recovery for Providence County families.

3. Federal Court Authority

We’re admitted to practice in U.S. District Court, which means we can pursue Providence County cases in federal jurisdiction when appropriate. This gives us access to broader legal strategies and resources.

4. Dual-State Bar Admission

We’re licensed in both Texas and New York, giving us strategic advantages when suing national organizations headquartered in different states.

5. Proven Track Record in High-Stakes Litigation

• BP Texas City Explosion – Mass tort litigation experience
• Multi-million dollar settlements in personal injury cases
• Federal appellate experience in civil rights cases
• Hundreds of successful criminal defenses – Experience challenging evidence

6. Hazing-Specific Expertise

• Rhabdomyolysis injury litigation
• Kappa Sigma fraternity case experience
• Texas A&M University hazing cases
• Hospitalization compensation claims
• Wrongful death from hazing activities

7. We Come to Providence County

While we’re based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide. We offer:

• Video consultations for Providence County families
• Willingness to travel to Providence County for depositions and trials
• Remote case management capabilities
• 24/7 availability for legal emergencies

8. Contingency Fee Representation

We understand that Providence County families may be facing medical bills, lost tuition, and other expenses. That’s why we take hazing cases on contingency:

• $0 upfront costs
• No hourly fees
• We only get paid if you win
• No recovery = no fee

9. Bilingual Services

Se habla español. We serve Providence County’s diverse community without language barriers.

10. We Treat Providence County Families Like Family

Our client testimonials speak for themselves:

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer regarding my case.” – Dame Haskett

“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

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client that’s caught in the middle of many other cases. You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” – Chad Harris

The Attorney 911 Approach to Providence County Hazing Cases

When Providence County families come to us after hazing incidents, we treat it as the legal emergency it is. Here’s how we handle these cases:

1. Immediate Response

• 24/7 availability for Providence County hazing emergencies
• Rapid evidence preservation – We act fast to secure evidence before it disappears
• Medical documentation – We ensure all injuries are properly documented

2. Comprehensive Investigation

• Expert network – Medical experts, hazing culture experts, accident reconstructionists
• Evidence gathering – Texts, social media, photos, videos, witness statements
• Pattern evidence – We investigate prior hazing incidents at the same chapter

3. Strategic Legal Action

• Multiple defendants – We sue everyone responsible: individuals, chapter, nationals, university
• Federal and state claims – We pursue all available legal avenues
• Criminal coordination – We work with prosecutors when criminal charges are appropriate

4. Aggressive Negotiation

• Insurance company tactics – We know how they try to minimize claims
• Policy limits demands – We pursue every available dollar of coverage
• Settlement negotiations – We fight for maximum compensation

5. Trial-Ready Preparation

• Jury trial experience – We’re not afraid to take cases to trial
• Compelling storytelling – We present hazing cases in ways that resonate with juries
• Maximum damages pursuit – We fight for every dollar of compensation Providence County families deserve

What Providence County Families Can Recover

Hazing victims are entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages:

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses – Hospital bills, doctor visits, medications, future treatment
• Lost wages – Time missed from work during recovery
• Future earning capacity – If injuries affect long-term career prospects
• Educational expenses – Tuition for missed semesters, tutoring, academic support
• Rehabilitation costs – Physical therapy, mental health treatment

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical pain and suffering – The agony of rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, etc.
• Mental anguish – Trauma from waterboarding, forced consumption, etc.
• Emotional distress – PTSD, anxiety, depression from the experience
• Loss of enjoyment of life – Inability to participate in normal activities
• Disfigurement – Scars from physical abuse or medical procedures

Punitive Damages

In cases of egregious conduct, Providence County families may be entitled to punitive damages designed to punish the wrongdoers and deter future misconduct. This is particularly appropriate when:

• The hazing involved torture (like waterboarding)
• The organization had prior knowledge of hazing problems
• The university failed to act despite having the power to stop it
• There was a pattern of abuse rather than an isolated incident

Common Hazing Defenses – And How We Defeat Them

When Providence County families sue for hazing, defendants will try to avoid responsibility with these common defenses:

1. “He Consented to Participate”

Our Response:

• Rhode Island law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing
• Coercion and peer pressure negate true consent
• Fear of social exclusion or retaliation creates duress
• Many victims don’t know what they’re consenting to until it’s too late

2. “It Was Just Tradition”

Our Response:

• Tradition doesn’t legalize assault, battery, or torture
• Courts have repeatedly rejected this defense
• Many “traditions” have been abandoned when they were exposed as harmful
• If the tradition involves breaking the law, it’s not protected

3. “He Could Have Left at Any Time”

Our Response:

• Social pressure makes leaving extremely difficult
• Fear of ostracism is a powerful deterrent
• Many victims are physically prevented from leaving
• The power dynamic between members and pledges makes true freedom to leave illusory

4. “We Didn’t Know It Was Happening”

Our Response:

• National organizations have a duty to supervise their chapters
• Universities have a duty to monitor Greek life
• Prior incidents (like Andrew Coffey’s death) put them on notice
• “Willful blindness” is not a defense – if they should have known, they’re liable

5. “It Was Just Kids Being Kids”

Our Response:

• Waterboarding is not “kids being kids” – it’s torture
• Forcing someone to do 500 squats until they collapse is not “kids being kids” – it’s reckless endangerment
• Hog-tying a pledge with an object in his mouth is not “kids being kids” – it’s assault
• These are criminal acts, not harmless pranks

Providence County Universities With Greek Life: Know the Risks

Many Providence County-area universities have active Greek organizations that pose hazing risks. While we can’t comment on specific incidents at these schools without documented evidence, Providence County families should be aware that these institutions have Greek life programs that may be susceptible to hazing culture:

Brown University

• Home to multiple fraternities and sororities
• Part of the Ivy League with a prestigious reputation
• Greek life operates under university oversight

Providence College

• Private Catholic college with active Greek life
• Multiple fraternities and sororities on campus
• Greek organizations play significant role in student life

Johnson & Wales University (Providence Campus)

• Known for hospitality and business programs
• Active Greek life community
• Multiple fraternities and sororities

Rhode Island College

• Public college in Providence
• Greek life organizations present
• Part of the Rhode Island state university system

Bryant University (Smithfield, near Providence)

• Private university with Greek life
• Multiple fraternities and sororities
• Greek organizations involved in campus activities

Roger Williams University (Bristol, near Providence)

• Private university with Greek life
• Multiple fraternities and sororities
• Greek organizations part of student governance

University of Rhode Island (Kingston, near Providence)

• State’s flagship public university
• Large Greek life presence
• Multiple fraternities and sororities with significant membership

Important Note: The presence of Greek life at these institutions does not mean hazing is occurring. However, Providence County families should be aware that the same national organizations involved in hazing deaths and lawsuits nationwide operate chapters at these schools. Vigilance and awareness are essential.

The Providence County Hazing Victim’s Guide: Step-by-Step Action Plan

If your child has been hazed at a Providence County-area university, follow this step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Ensure Immediate Safety

• Remove your child from the dangerous situation
• If there’s any medical emergency, call 911 immediately
• Do not let them return to the fraternity/sorority house or any related events

Step 2: Seek Medical Attention

• Go to the emergency room or urgent care immediately
• Even if injuries seem minor, get them documented
• Request copies of all medical records
• Follow up with specialists as recommended

Step 3: Document Everything

• Photos: Take pictures of all injuries at every stage of healing
• Videos: Record any visible effects of the hazing
• Screenshots: Save all text messages, social media posts, GroupMe chats
• Physical evidence: Preserve any items used in hazing (clothing, objects, etc.)
• Witness statements: Get contact information for other victims and witnesses
• Medical records: Request copies of all treatment records
• Academic records: Document any impact on grades or enrollment

Step 4: Report to Authorities

• File a police report – Hazing is a crime in Rhode Island
• Report to the university – File a formal complaint with the administration
• Report to the national organization – Contact the fraternity/sorority’s national headquarters
• File a Title IX complaint – If applicable, with the university’s Title IX office

Step 5: Preserve Evidence Properly

• Store all evidence in a safe place
• Make digital copies of everything
• Do not delete anything from phones or social media
• Do not talk to anyone about the incident without consulting an attorney

Step 6: Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney

• Call Attorney 911 at 1-888-ATTY-911
• Schedule a free, confidential consultation
• Do not sign anything from the organization or their insurance company
• Do not give recorded statements without your attorney present

Step 7: Follow Your Attorney’s Guidance

• Your attorney will handle all communications with the defendants
• Follow medical treatment recommendations
• Keep your attorney updated on your recovery progress
• Be patient – these cases take time but the compensation is worth it

Providence County Hazing Resources

Rhode Island Hazing Laws

• Rhode Island General Laws § 11-21-1 – Hazing prohibited
• Rhode Island General Laws § 11-21-2 – Duty to report hazing
• Rhode Island Department of Education – Enforcement

National Anti-Hazing Organizations

• HazingPrevention.org – Education and prevention resources
• StopHazing.org – Research and advocacy
• Gordie Center – Alcohol education and hazing prevention

Providence County Support Services

• Butler Hospital – Mental health services
• Rhode Island Hospital – Medical treatment
• Providence College Counseling Center – Student mental health
• Brown University Psychological Services – Student support

Frequently Asked Questions About Providence County Hazing Cases

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

A: We understand the fear of retaliation and social consequences. However, reporting is important for several reasons:

• It creates a record that can help other victims
• It may prevent future incidents
• It preserves your child’s legal rights
• Many victims find that speaking out helps their healing process

We can help your child report anonymously if they prefer, and we’ll protect their identity to the fullest extent possible.

Q: The fraternity says my child consented. Does that mean we can’t sue?

A: No. Rhode Island 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 for the harm caused.

Q: We’re worried about the cost of hiring an attorney. Can we afford this?

A: Yes. We take hazing cases on contingency, which means:

• No upfront costs
• No hourly fees
• We only get paid if you win
• Our fee comes out of the settlement or verdict
• If we don’t win, you owe us nothing

This makes legal representation accessible to Providence County families regardless of financial situation.

Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?

A: In Rhode Island, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is typically 3 years from the date of injury. However, there are exceptions:

• For minors, the clock may not start until they turn 18
• In some cases, the clock may start when the injury is discovered rather than when it occurred

Do not wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and organizations will try to destroy records. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Q: The university is conducting an investigation. Should we wait for that to finish?

A: No. University investigations are designed to protect the institution, not your child. They may:

• Minimize the seriousness of the hazing
• Protect the organization rather than the victim
• Destroy evidence that could help your case
• Pressure you to accept a low settlement

Contact an attorney immediately. We’ll ensure your child’s rights are protected throughout the university’s process.

Q: My child is an international student. Does that affect our rights?

A: No. International students have the same legal rights as domestic students. Your immigration status does not affect your ability to seek compensation for hazing injuries.

We have experience representing international students and can guide you through the process while protecting your visa status.

Q: The hazing happened off-campus. Can we still sue the university?

A: Yes. Universities can be held liable for off-campus hazing when:

• The university had knowledge of hazing risks
• The university failed to implement adequate safeguards
• The hazing was connected to university-recognized organizations
• The university had the power to prevent the hazing

Q: My child was hazed but wasn’t physically injured. Can we still sue?

A: Yes. Psychological trauma is just as real as physical injuries. If your child experienced:

• PTSD
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Panic attacks
• Sleep disturbances
• Loss of trust
• Academic decline

They may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress, mental anguish, and other non-economic damages.

Q: The fraternity has offered us money to settle. Should we take it?

A: Not without consulting an attorney. Early settlement offers are almost always lowball offers designed to:

• Get you to sign away your rights
• Avoid a larger payout later
• Prevent you from discovering the full extent of their liability

We can evaluate any settlement offer and negotiate for maximum compensation.

Q: How long does a hazing lawsuit take?

A: Every case is different, but hazing cases typically take:

• 6-12 months for relatively straightforward cases
• 12-24 months for more complex cases with multiple defendants
• 2-4 years for cases that go to trial

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while ensuring Providence County families receive maximum compensation.

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

A: No. Pursuing legal action for hazing injuries:

• Is protected by anti-retaliation laws
• Cannot be held against your child academically
• Cannot be used to deny future employment opportunities
• Is a legitimate exercise of legal rights

Many victims find that holding their abusers accountable actually helps their healing and future prospects.

Providence County Hazing: The Time to Act Is Now

Hazing in Providence County isn’t going to stop on its own. Universities won’t reform without pressure. National organizations won’t change without accountability. And individual perpetrators won’t face consequences without legal action.

The $10 million case we’re litigating against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston proves that hazing can happen anywhere – and that victims can fight back. Providence County families deserve the same aggressive representation we’re bringing to this landmark case.

If your child has been hazed in Providence County:

1. Preserve all evidence – Photos, texts, medical records, witness information
2. Do not talk to the organization or their insurance company
3. Do not post about the incident on social media
4. Contact Attorney 911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

We offer Providence County families:

✅ Free, confidential consultations – No obligation
✅ 24/7 availability for legal emergencies
✅ $0 upfront costs – We work on contingency
✅ Video consultations – No need to travel
✅ Willingness to come to Providence County for depositions and trials
✅ Bilingual services – Se habla español
✅ Aggressive representation – We fight for maximum compensation

Providence County Families: Enough Is Enough

The waterboarding, the forced exercise, the wooden paddles, the psychological torture – it has to stop. Providence County students deserve better. Providence County families deserve answers.

At Attorney 911, we’re not just talking about stopping hazing. We’re actively fighting it in court. We’re holding institutions accountable. We’re sending a message that this behavior won’t be tolerated.

If your child has been hazed at a Providence County-area university, we can help. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation. Together, we can protect your child, seek justice, and help prevent the next hazing victim.

Providence County hazing victims: You’re not alone. We’re fighting for you.