🚨 Hazing Victims in Lincoln County, Wisconsin — Legal Rights & How to Fight Back

You are not alone. What happened to you was not your fault. And you have the power to fight back.

Lincoln County families send their children to college expecting them to be safe. But when fraternities, sororities, or other student organizations use abuse as “tradition,” that trust is betrayed. If your child has been hazed in Lincoln County or at a nearby university, you have legal rights — and Attorney 911 is here to help you enforce them.

We are currently fighting a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston, where a student was waterboarded, forced to do 500 squats, and hospitalized with kidney failure. The same fraternities operate at universities near Lincoln County. The same negligence exists here. And we will bring the same aggressive legal representation to Lincoln County families.

📞 Lincoln County Hazing Victims — Call Now for Free Consultation

1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7)
Email: ralph@atty911.com

We serve Lincoln County hazing victims nationwide. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

🔍 What Counts as Hazing in Wisconsin?

Hazing is any activity that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in an organization. It doesn’t matter if the victim “consented” — consent is not a defense under Wisconsin law.

Common Hazing Activities in Lincoln County and Nearby Universities:

If your child experienced any of these at a Lincoln County institution or nearby university, they were hazed — and you have legal options.

🏛️ Who Can Be Held Liable for Lincoln County Hazing?

Hazing doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Multiple parties are responsible — and we pursue them all.

1. Local Chapters

The fraternity or sorority chapter that organized the hazing. In our current case, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter at UH directly conducted the abuse.

2. National Organizations

The national fraternity or sorority that failed to supervise. Pi Kappa Phi National had 8 years to fix their culture after Andrew Coffey died in 2017. They did nothing — and now another student was hospitalized.

3. Universities & Colleges Near Lincoln County

Institutions have a duty to protect students. When they own fraternity houses (like UH did) or have the power to regulate Greek life, they share liability. Nearby universities include:

• University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
• Northcentral Technical College (NTC) – Wausau Campus
• Northcentral Technical College (NTC) – Antigo Campus
• Other regional colleges and universities

4. Individual Members

Every person who participated in, organized, or failed to stop hazing can be sued personally. In the Stone Foltz case, the chapter president was ordered to pay $6.5 million personally.

5. Housing Corporations

Entities that own fraternity/sorority houses can be liable for hazing that occurs on their property.

6. Alumni & Former Members

If hazing occurred at an alumni’s home, they can be held responsible.

💰 What Compensation Can Lincoln County Hazing Victims Recover?

Hazing causes real harm — and the law allows victims to recover real compensation.

Economic Damages:

• Medical bills (hospitalization, therapy, future treatment)
• Lost wages (time missed from work or internships)
• Educational expenses (tuition for missed classes, transfer costs)
• Future medical costs (dialysis, kidney transplant if permanent damage)

Non-Economic Damages:

• Physical pain and suffering (from injuries, medical treatment)
• Mental anguish (PTSD, anxiety, depression from abuse)
• Emotional distress (humiliation, shame, fear of retribution)
• Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in activities, social isolation)

Punitive Damages:

When conduct is egregious or intentional, courts can award additional damages to punish the wrongdoers and deter future abuse. In our current case:

• Waterboarding (a form of torture)
• Forcing exercise until collapse
• Ignoring another pledge who lost consciousness
• 8 years of knowing about deadly hazing and doing nothing

These factors support punitive damages for Lincoln County victims.

⚖️ Wisconsin Hazing Laws — Your Legal Rights

Wisconsin has strong laws against hazing. Lincoln County victims are protected.

Wisconsin Statute § 948.51 — Hazing

Definition:

Any act committed for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in an organization, which causes or is likely to cause bodily harm or personal degradation.

Penalties:

• Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 9 months in jail and $10,000 fine
• Class H Felony — If the hazing causes great bodily harm (up to 6 years in prison and $10,000 fine)
• Class G Felony — If the hazing causes death (up to 10 years in prison and $25,000 fine)

Consent is NOT a Defense:

“Consent is not a defense to a prosecution under this section.”

This means: Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the hazing is still illegal.

Civil Liability for Lincoln County Hazing Victims

Beyond criminal charges, victims can sue for money damages through civil lawsuits. Wisconsin law allows claims for:

• Negligence (failure to protect students)
• Assault and Battery (intentional harmful contact)
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (outrageous conduct causing severe distress)
• Premises Liability (if hazing occurred on unsafe property)
• Negligent Supervision (organizations failing to monitor members)

These claims exist regardless of whether criminal charges are filed.

🚨 What to Do If Your Child Was Hazed in Lincoln County

Time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly. Take these steps immediately:

1. Get Medical Attention

• Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor.
• Document everything — medical records are crucial evidence.
• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) can be life-threatening, as seen in our current case.

2. Preserve All Evidence

• Photos/Videos: Document injuries, hazing locations, any items used.
• Communications: Save all texts, emails, GroupMe/Snapchat messages about hazing.
• Witnesses: Get names and contact info of anyone who saw or participated.
• Documents: Save pledge manuals, schedules, or rules given to your child.

3. Do NOT Confront the Organization

• They will destroy evidence, coordinate stories, and intimidate witnesses.
• Let your attorney handle all communication.

4. Do NOT Post on Social Media

• Anything you post can be used against you.
• Do not discuss the incident online.

5. Report to Authorities

• Consider filing a police report.
• Report to the university’s Title IX office (protects against discrimination and harassment).

6. Contact an Attorney Immediately

• Statute of limitations in Wisconsin: 3 years for personal injury claims.
• Evidence disappears fast — witness memories fade, messages get deleted.
• Insurance companies will lowball you — they don’t have your best interests in mind.

⏳ Why You Must Act Now — The Clock Is Ticking

Evidence Disappears:

• Text messages get deleted
• Social media posts get removed
• Witnesses forget details
• Organizations destroy records

Legal Deadlines:

• Wisconsin statute of limitations: 3 years from the date of injury.
• If you wait, you lose your right to sue forever.

Institutional Cover-Up:

• Universities and fraternities will try to silence victims.
• They may offer quick settlements to avoid accountability.
• Never accept a settlement without consulting an attorney.

Criminal Investigations:

• If hazing involves assault, sexual abuse, or other crimes, criminal charges may be filed.
• Civil and criminal cases can proceed simultaneously.

🏆 Why Lincoln County Families Choose Attorney 911

We are not just lawyers — we are legal emergency responders for hazing victims. Here’s why Lincoln County families trust us:

1. We’re Fighting This Fight 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 because we’re in the trenches right now.
• Lincoln 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 — and we use it against them.
• We know how to maximize your recovery.

3. Nationwide Reach — Lincoln County Included

• While based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including Lincoln County.
• Federal court authority — we can pursue cases in federal jurisdiction.
• Dual-state bar licenses — Texas AND New York.
• We travel to Lincoln County for depositions, trials, and client meetings.

4. Proven Results in High-Stakes Litigation

• BP Texas City explosion litigation — mass tort experience against major corporations.
• $10 million hazing lawsuit — currently in progress.
• Multi-million dollar settlements in personal injury cases.

5. Compassionate, Client-Focused Representation

• We treat Lincoln County families like family.
• We understand the trauma of hazing — we’ve seen what it does to kids.
• We keep you informed every step of the way.

6. No Upfront Costs — We Work on Contingency

• $0 upfront for Lincoln County families.
• We don’t get paid unless you get paid.
• Contingency fee: We take a percentage of your recovery — typically 33-40%.

📋 Lincoln County Hazing Victim Intake Protocol

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, here’s what to expect:

1. Confidential Consultation

• Free, no-obligation case evaluation.
• We listen to your story with compassion and respect.

2. Case Viability Assessment

We evaluate:

• Was the conduct hazing under Wisconsin law?
• Are there documented injuries (physical or psychological)?
• Are there identifiable defendants (chapter, nationals, university, individuals)?
• Is there evidence (texts, photos, witnesses)?
• Is the case within the statute of limitations?

3. Evidence Preservation

• We send immediate preservation letters to all defendants.
• We help you gather and secure evidence.

4. Legal Strategy Development

• Identify all liable parties.
• Develop a plan for maximum recovery.
• Coordinate with criminal investigations if applicable.

5. Aggressive Representation

• Negotiate with insurance companies.
• File lawsuits if necessary.
• Take the case to trial if needed.

🎯 Lincoln County Hazing Case Types We Handle

🏛️ Universities Near Lincoln County with Greek Life

The same national fraternities and sororities that have paid millions in hazing settlements operate at universities near Lincoln County. If your child was hazed at or near Lincoln County, we can help.

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

• Location: Stevens Point, WI (~50 miles from Lincoln County)
• Greek Life: Active fraternities and sororities
• Potential Hazing Risks: Same national organizations as in our current case

Northcentral Technical College (NTC) – Wausau Campus

• Location: Wausau, WI (~30 miles from Lincoln County)
• Greek Life: Student organizations with initiation activities
• Potential Hazing Risks: Smaller institutions may have less oversight

Northcentral Technical College (NTC) – Antigo Campus

• Location: Antigo, WI (~20 miles from Lincoln County)
• Greek Life: Student clubs and organizations
• Potential Hazing Risks: Initiation rituals in smaller groups

Other Regional Colleges & Universities

• University of Wisconsin-Madison (~150 miles)
• University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (~120 miles)
• St. Norbert College (~100 miles)

If hazing occurred at any of these institutions or others near Lincoln County, we can pursue your case.

📰 Media Coverage of Our Current Hazing Case

Our fight against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston has been featured in multiple major media outlets. This is the level of representation Lincoln County families receive.

Key Allegations from Our Current Case:

• Waterboarding with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
• Forced to do 500 squats and 100+ pushups until collapse
• Struck with wooden paddles
• Forced eating until vomiting, then forced to continue running
• Another pledge collapsed unconscious — they kept going
• Hospitalized for 4 days with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure

The same national fraternities operate near Lincoln County. The same abuse happens here. We will fight for Lincoln County victims just like we’re fighting in Houston.

💬 What Lincoln County Families Are Saying (Testimonials)

While we protect client confidentiality, here’s what families in similar situations have said about working with Attorney 911:

“After my son was hazed, we felt powerless against the fraternity and the university. Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena gave us our power back. They fought for us like family. The fraternity that hurt my son is now shut down — and we got justice.” — Parent of hazing victim

“I was afraid to speak up. I thought no one would believe me. My attorney made me feel safe. They handled everything — the police, the university, the fraternity. I didn’t have to face them alone.” — Hazing victim

“The insurance company offered us $5,000. We thought that was all we’d get. Our lawyer said no. They fought for us and got us a settlement that will help my son for the rest of his life.” — Family of injured student

“We didn’t know if we had a case. We called Attorney 911, and they explained everything. They were honest, compassionate, and aggressive. They made the fraternity pay for what they did.” — Parent

❓ Frequently Asked Questions for Lincoln County Families

Q: My child was hazed but doesn’t want to sue. Should we still contact an attorney?

A: Yes. Even if your child doesn’t want to sue right now, evidence disappears quickly. A consultation is free and confidential. We can advise you on preserving evidence and protecting your child’s rights.

Q: The fraternity said my child “consented” to the activities. Is that a valid defense?

A: No. Wisconsin law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the hazing is still illegal.

Q: The university said they’re “investigating.” Should we wait?

A: No. Universities protect their own interests, not yours. Their investigation may not be thorough. An attorney can conduct an independent investigation and ensure your rights are protected.

Q: My child was hazed at a university near Lincoln County, not in Lincoln County itself. Can you still help?

A: Yes. We serve hazing victims nationwide, including those hazed at universities near Lincoln County. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

Q: How much does it cost to hire Attorney 911?

A: $0 upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis — you only pay if we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of your recovery (typically 33-40%).

Q: How long does a hazing lawsuit take?

A: Every case is different. Some settle within months; others take years. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Q: Will my child have to testify?

A: Possibly, but many cases settle before trial. If your case goes to trial, we will prepare your child thoroughly and support them every step of the way.

Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?

A: Hazing is illegal on or off campus. If it occurred at a private residence, the homeowner and fraternity can still be held liable.

Q: Can we sue the national fraternity, or just the local chapter?

A: Both. National organizations have deep pockets and often share liability for failing to supervise their chapters. We pursue all responsible parties.

Q: What if my child was hazed but not physically injured?

A: Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression) is also compensable. Therapy records, expert testimony, and other evidence can support your claim.

📞 Lincoln County Hazing Victims — Call Now

1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7)
Email: ralph@atty911.com

We serve Lincoln County and all of Wisconsin. You are not alone. We will fight for you.

🔥 A Message to Lincoln County Fraternities and Universities

To the fraternities operating near Lincoln County:
We are watching. The same legal strategies that secured multi-million dollar verdicts nationwide apply to your chapters. Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi — if your chapter operates near Lincoln County, know that Attorney 911 represents hazing victims across America.

To the universities near Lincoln County:
The same institutional negligence that made University of Houston a defendant exists at your campus. Act now or face the same accountability. Your students’ safety is your responsibility.

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

🏆 Lincoln County Families — You Deserve Justice

Hazing is not tradition. It’s not bonding. It’s not character-building.

It is abuse. It is assault. It is torture.

And it must stop.

Lincoln County families deserve the same aggressive representation we’re providing in Houston. We will fight for you with the same fury, the same expertise, and the same commitment to justice.

Call us today. The first consultation is free. The first step is yours.

1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com

Attorney 911 — Legal Emergency Lawyers™
Serving Lincoln County, Wisconsin and Nationwide

Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont — Serving Lincoln County Hazing Victims

Lincoln County families: We will travel to you. We will fight for you. You are not alone.