Hazing Victims in Douglas County, South Dakota: Your Legal Rights and How to Get Help

The Hazing Crisis Hits Close to Home in Douglas County

If your child has been the victim of hazing at a college, university, or Greek organization near Douglas County, South Dakota, you’re not alone. The recent case of Leonel Bermudez—a young man hospitalized with kidney failure after being subjected to waterboarding, forced exercise, and physical abuse during Pi Kappa Phi fraternity hazing at the University of Houston—proves that this dangerous culture exists at institutions across America, including those near Douglas County.

While this specific incident occurred in Texas, the same national fraternities and sororities operate at universities throughout South Dakota. The same “traditions” that put Bermudez in the hospital for four days happen right here in our community. Douglas County families deserve to know their rights and have access to experienced legal representation to hold these organizations accountable.

What Happened to Leonel Bermudez: A Warning for Douglas County Families

Leonel Bermudez, a transfer student planning to enroll at the University of Houston, accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi fraternity in September 2025. What followed was seven weeks of systematic abuse that nearly cost him his life:

• Waterboarding with a garden hose—simulated drowning, a form of torture
• Forced to perform 500 squats and 100+ pushups until he collapsed
• Struck with wooden paddles as physical punishment
• Forced to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting
• Made to lie in vomit-soaked grass after vomiting
• Another pledge lost consciousness during forced workouts
• Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour

On November 3, 2025, Bermudez was punished for missing an event. He was forced to perform extreme physical exercises until he could not stand without help. He crawled up the stairs when he got home. The next day, he couldn’t move. The day after that, his condition worsened. On November 6, his mother rushed him to the hospital where he was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, requiring four days of hospitalization.

This happened because the fraternity, the national organization, and the university all failed in their duty to protect students. The same failures happen at institutions near Douglas County.

Hazing in South Dakota: The Reality for Douglas County Families

While South Dakota may not make national headlines for hazing incidents as often as some states, the problem is very real here in Douglas County. National fraternities and sororities with chapters at South Dakota universities have the same culture of hazing that led to Bermudez’s hospitalization.

Greek Organizations Near Douglas County

Several universities and colleges in and around South Dakota have active Greek life organizations where hazing could occur:

• University of South Dakota in Vermillion—home to multiple fraternities and sororities
• South Dakota State University in Brookings—with a significant Greek presence
• Augustana University in Sioux Falls—private university with Greek organizations
• Dakota State University in Madison—smaller but with Greek life
• Northern State University in Aberdeen—Greek organizations present

The same national fraternities involved in hazing deaths and injuries across the country—Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi, and others—operate chapters at universities near Douglas County. If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority in South Dakota, they face the same risks that hospitalized Bermudez.

Why Hazing Continues in Douglas County

Hazing persists near Douglas County for the same reasons it continues nationwide:

1. Culture of secrecy—Organizations pressure victims not to report
2. Fear of retaliation—Victims worry about social consequences
3. Institutional failure—Universities don’t adequately monitor Greek life
4. National organizations look the other way—They prioritize reputation over safety
5. Peer pressure—Victims often “consent” under duress
6. Lack of accountability—Perpetrators rarely face serious consequences

Douglas County families deserve better. Students at South Dakota universities deserve to be safe.

Your Legal Rights as a Douglas County Hazing Victim

If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Douglas County, you have important legal rights. South Dakota law provides protections, and experienced attorneys can help you pursue justice.

South Dakota Hazing Laws

South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-19A-1 defines hazing as:

“Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a student, whether individually or in concert with others, against another student, and in which both of the following apply:
(1) The act was committed in connection with an initiation into, an affiliation with, or the maintenance of membership in any organization that is affiliated with an educational institution; and
(2) The act contributes to a substantial risk of potential physical injury, mental harm, or degradation or causes physical injury, mental harm, or personal degradation.”

This definition covers the types of abuse Bermudez suffered—physical brutality, forced consumption, sleep deprivation, and psychological abuse.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Douglas County Hazing?

In hazing cases, multiple parties can be held legally responsible:

1. Local fraternity/sorority chapter—Directly organized and conducted hazing
2. National organization—Failed to supervise and enforce anti-hazing policies
3. University/college—Failed to protect students; may have premises liability
4. Chapter officers—Leaders who directed hazing activities
5. Individual members—Participated in or failed to stop hazing
6. Alumni—Hosted hazing events at their homes
7. Housing corporations—Owners of fraternity/sorority houses

Types of Compensation Available for Douglas County Victims

Hazing victims in Douglas County may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses—Hospital bills, rehabilitation, future medical care
• Lost wages—Time missed from work during recovery
• Pain and suffering—Physical pain from injuries
• Emotional distress—PTSD, anxiety, depression from the trauma
• Educational disruption—Impact on academic performance and opportunities
• Punitive damages—To punish especially egregious conduct

In cases like Bermudez’s, where the victim suffered severe physical injuries, compensation can reach millions of dollars.

The Pattern of Hazing: Why This Keeps Happening Near Douglas County

The Bermudez case is not an isolated incident. It’s part of a disturbing pattern:

Pi Kappa Phi’s Deadly History

• 2017: Andrew Coffey died at Florida State University after being forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon at a Pi Kappa Phi event
• 2025: Leonel Bermudez hospitalized at University of Houston with kidney failure after Pi Kappa Phi hazing

Same fraternity. Same deadly culture. Eight years apart.

Pi Kappa Phi had eight years to fix their hazing culture after Coffey’s death. They did nothing. Now Bermudez has paid the price. How many other chapters near Douglas County are engaging in the same dangerous activities?

University of Houston’s Failure

• 2017: A student was hospitalized with a lacerated spleen after hazing at Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity
• 2025: Leonel Bermudez hospitalized with kidney failure after hazing at Pi Kappa Phi fraternity

Same university. Same failure. Eight years apart.

The University of Houston knew hazing was happening on their campus. They had eight years to implement real oversight. They did nothing. Now Bermudez has paid the price. How many other universities near Douglas County are making the same mistakes?

What to Do If Your Child Has Been Hazed in Douglas County

If your child has been the victim of hazing at a college or university near Douglas County, take these steps immediately:

1. Seek Medical Attention

Even if injuries seem minor, get medical care. Some conditions like rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) may not show symptoms immediately. Medical records are crucial evidence.

2. Preserve All Evidence

• Photos/videos: Document injuries, hazing locations, any physical evidence
• Text messages/emails: Save all communications about hazing
• Social media: Screenshot posts, messages, group chats
• Witness information: Get names and contact info of other victims or witnesses
• Documents: Save pledge manuals, schedules, any written materials

3. Do NOT Talk to the Organization Without Legal Counsel

Fraternities, sororities, and universities will try to control the narrative. They may pressure your child to sign documents or make statements that could harm their case. Do not communicate with them without an attorney present.

4. Report the Incident

• To authorities: Consider filing a police report
• To the university: File a formal complaint
• To the national organization: Report to the fraternity/sorority headquarters

5. Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney

The most important step is to consult with an attorney who specializes in hazing cases. At Attorney 911, we have extensive experience representing hazing victims and can guide you through the legal process.

Why Douglas County Families Choose Attorney 911

When your child has been hazed, you need attorneys who understand the complexity of these cases and have a proven track record of success. Here’s why Douglas County families trust Attorney 911:

1. We’re Fighting This Fight Right Now

We are currently representing Leonel Bermudez in his $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know how to build these cases, and we know how to win. Douglas County families get the same aggressive representation.

2. Nationwide Experience with Local Commitment

While based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including Douglas County. Our federal court authority and willingness to travel mean distance is not a barrier to justice. We come to Douglas County for depositions, trials, and client meetings.

3. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

Both of our attorneys—Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena—are former insurance defense lawyers. We know how insurance companies think, how they try to minimize claims, and how to counter their tactics. This insider knowledge gives our clients an unfair advantage.

4. Proven Results in High-Stakes Litigation

• BP Texas City explosion litigation—Experience with complex, high-stakes cases against major corporations
• Multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts—Proven track record of winning big cases
• Federal court experience—U.S. District Court admission allows us to pursue cases nationwide
• Dual-state bar licenses—Texas and New York admission provides strategic flexibility

5. We Understand the Culture

Ralph Manginello is a former athlete and youth coach. He understands team dynamics, locker room culture, and the pressures that lead to hazing. This insight helps us build stronger cases and connect with juries.

6. We Speak Your Language

Our bilingual staff can serve Douglas County families in both English and Spanish. Language should never be a barrier to justice.

7. No Upfront Costs for Douglas County Families

We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This ensures that every Douglas County family can afford top-tier legal representation.

The Attorney 911 Approach: How We Serve Douglas County Hazing Victims

When you contact Attorney 911 about a hazing incident in Douglas County, here’s what you can expect:

1. Immediate Case Evaluation

We’ll review the details of your case and explain your legal options. This initial consultation is free and confidential.

2. Evidence Preservation

We’ll send preservation letters to all defendants demanding they maintain all evidence. This prevents destruction of crucial materials.

3. Comprehensive Investigation

Our team will:

• Interview witnesses
• Obtain medical records
• Collect photographic and video evidence
• Gather communications (texts, emails, social media)
• Document the full extent of damages

4. Expert Consultation

We work with:

• Medical experts to document injuries
• Greek life culture experts to explain organizational dynamics
• Economic experts to calculate damages
• Mental health professionals to assess psychological impact

5. Aggressive Negotiation

We’ll pursue settlement negotiations from a position of strength. Our experience with insurance companies and former insurance defense background gives us an edge.

6. Litigation When Necessary

If defendants won’t offer fair compensation, we’re prepared to take your case to court. We have extensive trial experience and aren’t afraid to fight for what you deserve.

7. Ongoing Support

We keep Douglas County families informed at every step. You’ll never be left wondering what’s happening with your case.

Case Study: The Bermudez Lawsuit—What Douglas County Families Can Learn

The $10 million lawsuit we filed on behalf of Leonel Bermudez provides important lessons for Douglas County families:

1. Multiple Defendants Means Multiple Sources of Compensation

In the Bermudez case, we’re pursuing:

• Pi Kappa Phi National Organization
• The local Beta Nu chapter
• The housing corporation
• The University of Houston
• Individual fraternity members
• Former members and their spouses

This multi-defendant approach increases the potential sources of compensation for Douglas County victims.

2. Pattern Evidence Strengthens Your Case

We’re using prior incidents to show that Pi Kappa Phi and UH knew about the risks:

• Andrew Coffey’s death at Pi Kappa Phi in 2017
• A 2017 hazing hospitalization at UH (different fraternity)

For Douglas County cases, we’ll investigate whether the same pattern exists at local institutions.

3. Egregious Conduct Leads to Higher Compensation

The waterboarding, forced exercise to collapse, and wooden paddles in the Bermudez case are exactly the type of conduct that leads to punitive damages. Douglas County victims should document any especially outrageous behavior.

4. Universities Can Be Held Liable

The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where the hazing occurred. Many universities near Douglas County own or control Greek housing, creating premises liability.

5. National Organizations Have Deep Pockets

Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters nationwide. National organizations have substantial assets and insurance coverage. They can and should be held accountable for their chapters’ actions.

Common Hazing Activities That Create Liability for Douglas County Organizations

Hazing takes many forms, all of which can create legal liability:

Physical Abuse

• Beatings or paddling
• Forced exercise to exhaustion (like Bermudez’s 500 squats)
• Branding or burning
• Sleep deprivation
• Exposure to extreme temperatures
• Waterboarding or other forms of simulated drowning

Forced Consumption

• Alcohol (binge drinking, chugging)
• Food (eating until vomiting)
• Non-food substances
• Drugs

Psychological Abuse

• Verbal harassment
• Humiliation
• Isolation
• Threats of physical harm
• Threats of expulsion

Sexual Abuse

• Forced nudity
• Sexual acts
• Carrying sexual objects
• Sexual assault

Dangerous Activities

• Blindfolded activities
• Confinement in small spaces
• “Trust falls” from heights
• Activities that risk injury

Servitude

• Cleaning fraternity/sorority houses
• Running errands for members
• Personal servitude

If your child has experienced any of these activities at a college or university near Douglas County, they may have a legal claim.

Medical Consequences of Hazing: What Douglas County Parents Need to Know

Hazing can cause serious, sometimes permanent injuries:

Physical Injuries

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown)—can lead to kidney failure, as in Bermudez’s case
• Traumatic brain injury—from beatings or falls
• Broken bones—from physical abuse
• Internal injuries—from forced consumption or physical trauma
• Alcohol poisoning—from forced drinking
• Hypothermia/hyperthermia—from exposure
• Cardiac issues—from extreme physical exertion

Psychological Injuries

• PTSD—post-traumatic stress disorder from the abuse
• Anxiety disorders—ongoing fear and worry
• Depression—feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness
• Suicidal ideation—in severe cases
• Trust issues—difficulty forming relationships
• Substance abuse—self-medicating to cope

Long-Term Consequences

• Chronic health conditions
• Permanent disability
• Career limitations
• Ongoing mental health treatment
• Reduced quality of life

These injuries can result in substantial medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering—all of which can be compensated through legal action.

How Much Is a Douglas County Hazing Case Worth?

Every hazing case is unique, but recent settlements and verdicts provide guidance on potential compensation:

For Douglas County cases, compensation depends on factors like:

• Severity of injuries
• Duration of medical treatment
• Impact on education and career
• Degree of institutional negligence
• Strength of evidence
• Number of defendants

In cases involving severe physical injuries like Bermudez’s, compensation can reach millions of dollars.

The Legal Process for Douglas County Hazing Victims

If you decide to pursue legal action for hazing in Douglas County, here’s what to expect:

1. Initial Consultation

We’ll evaluate your case and explain your options. This meeting is free and confidential.

2. Evidence Gathering

We’ll collect medical records, witness statements, photos, videos, and other evidence to build your case.

3. Demand Letter

We’ll send a demand letter to defendants outlining your damages and requesting compensation.

4. Negotiation

We’ll negotiate with defendants’ insurance companies and attorneys to try to reach a fair settlement.

5. Litigation (if necessary)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’ll file a lawsuit and prepare for trial.

6. Discovery

Both sides exchange information through written questions, document requests, and depositions.

7. Mediation

A neutral mediator may help facilitate settlement discussions.

8. Trial (if necessary)

If we can’t settle, we’ll present your case to a judge or jury.

9. Resolution

Your case will conclude with either a settlement or a jury verdict.

Throughout this process, we keep Douglas County families informed and involved.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing Cases in Douglas County

Q: My child “consented” to the hazing. Can we still sue?

A: Yes. Under South Dakota law, consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the organization can still be held liable. The law recognizes that peer pressure, fear of retaliation, and social coercion make true consent impossible in hazing situations.

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

A: Possibly. Universities have a duty to protect students from foreseeable harm, even off-campus. If the university knew or should have known about the hazing, they may share liability. In the Bermudez case, hazing occurred both on and off campus—including at a former member’s residence.

Q: We’re not sure if what happened qualifies as hazing. How do we know?

A: South Dakota law defines hazing broadly. If the activity involved:

• Physical brutality
• Forced consumption of food, alcohol, or drugs
• Sleep deprivation
• Psychological abuse
• Dangerous activities
• Servitude

…and was part of an initiation or membership process, it likely qualifies as hazing. Contact us for a free evaluation of your specific situation.

Q: The fraternity has already suspended the chapter. Isn’t that enough?

A: No. Suspending or closing a chapter is damage control—not accountability. The national organization and university often continue to operate, and the same culture persists. Legal action is necessary to:

• Compensate victims for their injuries
• Send a message that hazing won’t be tolerated
• Force real change in the organization’s culture

In the Bermudez case, Pi Kappa Phi closed the chapter but already stated they “look forward to returning to campus.” This shows they haven’t learned their lesson.

Q: My child is afraid of retaliation. How can we protect them?

A: We understand these concerns. Many hazing victims fear social or academic retaliation. We can:

• Advise on how to document any retaliation
• Work with the university to ensure your child’s safety
• Include anti-retaliation provisions in any settlement
• Pursue additional damages if retaliation occurs

In the Bermudez case, our client was “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution.” This fear is real and common among hazing victims.

Q: How long do we have to take legal action?

A: In South Dakota, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally three years from the date of injury. However, there are exceptions, and it’s best to act quickly. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and your legal rights may be affected by delays.

Q: We can’t afford a lawyer. How much does this cost?

A: At Attorney 911, we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This ensures that every Douglas County family can afford experienced legal representation.

Q: The fraternity says this was just “tradition.” Is that a defense?

A: No. “Tradition” is not a legal defense to hazing. Courts have consistently ruled that dangerous traditions don’t justify illegal behavior. In fact, organizations that rely on “tradition” as a defense often face higher damages because it shows they knew the behavior was wrong but continued anyway.

Q: Can we sue the national fraternity organization?

A: Yes. National organizations can be held liable for failing to supervise their chapters, failing to enforce anti-hazing policies, and allowing a culture of hazing to persist. In the Bermudez case, we’re suing both the local chapter and Pi Kappa Phi National.

Q: What if the hazing happened at a private college near Douglas County?

A: Private colleges can be held liable for hazing just like public universities. The legal principles are the same. We’ve represented clients against both public and private institutions.

Putting Fraternities Near Douglas County on Notice

To fraternities and sororities operating at universities near Douglas County:

We are watching.

The same legal strategies that secured multi-million dollar verdicts nationwide apply to your chapters. If you haze students in South Dakota, we will pursue every liable entity—your local chapter, your national organization, your housing corporation, your alumni, and your individual members.

Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi—if your chapter operates near Douglas County, know that Attorney 911 represents hazing victims across America. We have proven these cases can be won.

Universities near Douglas County: The same institutional negligence that made University of Houston a defendant exists at your campus. Act now or face the same accountability.

To Greek life leadership at South Dakota institutions: The Bermudez case is a warning. Clean up your chapters before we clean them out in court.

How Douglas County Families Can Get Help

If your child has been the victim of hazing at a college or university near Douglas County, South Dakota, Attorney 911 can help. Here’s how to get started:

Call Our Hazing Hotline

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Available 24/7 for Douglas County hazing emergencies.

Email Us

ralph@atty911.com

Schedule a Free Consultation

We offer video consultations for Douglas County families who cannot travel to our offices. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

What to Expect

1. Free case evaluation—We’ll review your situation and explain your options
2. No pressure—You decide whether to move forward
3. No upfront costs—We work on contingency; you pay nothing unless we win
4. Confidentiality—Your information is protected

Why Act Now?

Every day you wait is a day closer to losing your legal rights. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and the organizations responsible will try to cover their tracks.

The Bermudez case shows what’s possible when hazing victims stand up:

• The chapter was shut down
• The national organization admitted “violations”
• The university acknowledged “deeply disturbing” conduct
• Criminal charges may follow
• A $10 million lawsuit is underway

Your Douglas County case could be next. It could prevent harm to another student. It could change the culture of hazing in South Dakota.

Douglas County Families: Enough Is Enough

To the parents of Douglas County:

Your children go to college expecting to be safe. They trust these institutions. They trust that fraternities and sororities will treat them with respect.

That trust is being betrayed.

When a fraternity waterboards your child, it’s not “tradition.” It’s torture.
When they force your child to do 500 squats until their muscles break down, it’s not “brotherhood.” It’s abuse.
When they strike your child with wooden paddles, it’s not “initiation.” It’s assault.

Douglas County families deserve better. Your children deserve to be safe.

At Attorney 911, we’re fighting this battle right now. We’re holding fraternities, universities, and national organizations accountable. We’re winning millions for hazing victims. And we’re ready to fight for Douglas County families.

If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. — Lupe Pena

Be brave. Step forward. Let’s bring this to light.

Douglas County families: Enough is enough.