If you’re reading this, your child may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of their life, especially if they are attending college away from home, perhaps in Bartow County or a neighboring area. They were supposed to make friends, build connections, and have a positive collegiate experience. Instead, they were subjected to abuse, humiliation, and potentially life-altering harm through hazing. We understand what you’re going through. We are here to help families in Bartow County fight back against the culture of hazing that continues to plague our universities and fraternitie

The Horrifying Reality of Hazing: What Families in Bartow County Must Understand

Hazing is not a harmless rite of passage. It is not “boys being boys.” It is not innocent fun or a way to build character. As we’ve seen firsthand in recent cases, hazing has evolved into systematic abuse, torture, psychological manipulation, and often, life-threatening physical assaults. This isn’t just happening in distant states; it’s a crisis affecting students across America, including those who may attend colleges and universities that draw students from Bartow County.

We are Attorney 911, and we are actively fighting this battle. Right now, in Harris County, Texas, our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are representing a hazing victim in a $10 million lawsuit against a national fraternity and the University of Houston. This case, Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al., is not just another legal filing; it is a stark warning to every parent and student in Bartow County about the true nature of hazing today. It’s a testament to our aggressive, data-driven approach to holding every responsible party accountable.

The Landmark Case: How Leonard Bermudez Was Tortured by Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston

Leonel Bermudez was not even officially a student at the University of Houston when he endured weeks of brutal hazing. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member planning to transfer to UH for the upcoming semester. What began with an accepted bid to Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on September 16, 2025, quickly devolved into a nightmare. Our lawsuit alleges he was subjected to systematic abuse and torture that landed him in the hospital for four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

Imagine your child, eager to start a new chapter in life, driven to such extreme physical exertion that their muscles begin to break down, releasing toxins into their bloodstream that poison their kidneys. This is what happened to Leonel.

The hazing included:

• Waterboarding with a garden hose: This simulated drowning technique, considered torture under international law, was inflicted upon Leonel. He was sprayed directly in the face with a hose while forced to perform calisthenics, a dehumanizing act of abuse. As Houston Public Media reported, “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.”
• Forced eating until vomiting: Leonel was compelled to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns, to the point of extreme nausea and vomiting. Immediately after, he was forced to continue arduous physical activities, lying in his own vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme physical punishment: The incident that hospitalized Leonel on November 3, 2025, involved forced exercises that included over 100 pushups, more than 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (sprinting drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-your-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was made to recite the fraternity creed throughout, under threat of immediate expulsion. This relentless exertion pushed his body to the brink, leading to muscle collapse.
• Paddling: The lawsuit further alleges that Leonel was struck with wooden paddles, a blatant act of physical assault.
• Psychological torture and humiliation: Beyond the physical abuse, Leonel was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather, carry a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature, and endure threats of violence for non-compliance. Another pledge was reportedly hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.
• Sleep deprivation: Leonel was forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, disrupting his sleep and contributing to his overall exhaustion.

The consequences were severe. After crawling into his bed following the November 3rd hazing session, Leonel’s condition rapidly deteriorated. His mother rushed him to the hospital on November 6, where doctors diagnosed him with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He was passing brown urine, a tell-tale sign of muscle breakdown. For three nights and four days, Leonel remained hospitalized, facing the very real risk of permanent kidney damage.

The Institutional Cover-Up and Our Fight for Justice

Within days of Leonel’s hospitalization, Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters suspended the University of Houston chapter. On November 14, 2025, a week before our lawsuit was filed, they officially closed the Beta Nu Chapter. Their public statement acknowledged “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” However, they also audaciously stated: “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time and continuing our partnership with the University of Houston in the years ahead.” This reveals a chilling lack of remorse and a readiness to resume operations once the controversy dies down. Mr. Peña articulated our firm’s mission clearly when he told ABC13: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

The University of Houston, despite controlling the fraternity house where much of this abuse occurred, also faces accountability. A UH spokesperson, as reported by Houston Public Media, called the events “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of our community standards,” noting that “any individual found responsible for hazing will face disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion and potential criminal charges.”

The facts of this case demonstrate exactly why Attorney 911 takes hazing litigation so seriously. This case involves:

• Documented Physical Injury: Severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, requiring a four-day hospitalization and presenting a lifelong risk of chronic kidney issues.
• Multiple Defendants: Our lawsuit names the Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, the local Beta Nu Chapter, the Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation, the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, the fraternity president, the pledgemaster, other current and former fraternity members, and even a former member’s spouse who allowed hazing at their residence. This comprehensive approach ensures all liable parties are targeted.
• Egregious Conduct: Waterboarding, forced eating, extreme physical abuse, and psychological torture that shocks the conscience.
• Institutional Knowledge and Foreseeability: Both Pi Kappa Phi National and the University of Houston had prior knowledge of deadly hazing incidents. Pi Kappa Phi had a student die in 2017 due to hazing (Andrew Coffey at FSU), and the University of Houston itself had a student hospitalized from hazing in 2017 (Jared Munoz from Pi Kappa Alpha). Despite these stark warnings, neither institution implemented effective safeguards.

This case is not an anomaly. It is proof that hazing needs to be fought aggressively and relentlessly. We represent Bartow County families with the same unwavering commitment we show to Leonel Bermudez.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

For parents in Bartow County, it’s vital to understand that contemporary hazing bears little resemblance to the innocent pranks of movies or bygone eras. Today, it is often systematic abuse that inflicts profound physical and psychological trauma. It transcends college campuses and infiltrates high school sports teams, clubs, and even professional organizations.

The Terrifying Spectrum of Hazing:

• Physical Abuse: This is not limited to mild discomfort. It includes beatings, paddling, branding, extreme forced exercise far beyond safe limits (like Leonel’s 500 squats), sleep deprivation, forced standing for hours, and exposure to extreme weather. Injuries can range from broken bones and burns to life-threatening conditions like rhabdomyolysis and severe internal trauma.
• Forced Consumption: This often involves alcohol, leading to binge drinking, blackouts, and potentially fatal alcohol poisoning. However, it also includes forcing individuals to consume repugnant or non-food substances, or vast quantities of food until vomiting, as seen in Leonel’s case.
• Psychological Torture: This insidious form of abuse is designed to break down an individual’s will and self-esteem. It encompasses humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, isolation, threats, and forced servitude. The long-term effects, such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation, can be more debilitating and lasting than physical injuries.
• Waterboarding and Simulated Drowning: A horrifying trend, as tragically demonstrated in Leonel’s case. This act is universally condemned as torture and has no place in any initiation ritual.
• Sexual Abuse and Humiliation: Forced nudity, carrying sexually suggestive items, and other sexually degrading acts are unfortunately also part of modern hazing.
• Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often intentionally deprived of sleep through late-night activities and early-morning duties, impacting their physical and mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being.

The pervasive nature of hazing is underscored by alarming statistics. Over 55% of students in Greek organizations and 40% of student-athletes report experiencing hazing. Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing-related death every year in the United States. Disturbingly, 95% of students who are hazed do not report it, often due to fear of retaliation, social ostracization, or loyalty to the group.

Our experience with the Bermudez case reveals the institutional failure that allows this culture to persist. Universities and national organizations possess the power to stop hazing. They have policies, resources, and influence. Yet, time and again, they choose not to intervene until a student is hospitalized or dies, at which point they issue condemnations, “suspend” chapters, and claim to be “shocked.” We believe this is a conscious choice to prioritize reputation and tradition over student safety.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Liable Party Accountable

When hazing harms a student from Bartow County, pursuing justice means identifying and holding every responsible party accountable. This often involves a multi-pronged legal strategy that targets individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and the universities themselves. Our approach ensures that those who enable or perpetuate hazing cannot escape liability, especially when their negligence leads to severe injury or death.

Based on our ongoing Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi, et al. lawsuit, we pursue claims against:

• Local Hazing Perpetrators: This includes the individual chapter members who actively participated in or directed the hazing. In Leonel’s case, our lawsuit names the fraternity president, the pledgemaster (who directly organized pledge activities), and other current and former members. Each person who inflicted harm, coerced participation, or failed to intervene can be held personally responsible for assault, battery, and other intentional torts.
• The Local Chapter: The Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi, as a recognized student organization, directly organized and conducted the hazing. Chapters can be held liable for the actions of their members and for fostering a dangerous environment.
• The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization: In Leonel’s case, we are suing Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters. National organizations are responsible for governing their local chapters, enforcing anti-hazing policies, and ensuring member safety. When they fail to adequately supervise, investigate, or intervene despite knowledge of hazing, they can be held liable for negligent supervision and for contributing to a dangerous culture. Pi Kappa Phi’s documented history of hazing deaths, like Andrew Coffey’s in 2017, demonstrates a pattern of negligence by the national body.
• The University or College: The University of Houston is a defendant in Leonel’s lawsuit. Universities have a duty to provide a safe environment for their students, regulate student organizations, and enforce anti-hazing policies. When hazing occurs on university-owned property, or when the institution fails to respond to known hazing risks (as UH did after its 2017 hazing incident), they can be held liable for premises liability, negligent supervision, and institutional negligence.
• Housing Corporations: Often, separate housing corporations own or manage fraternity and sorority houses. These entities can be held responsible if they allow dangerous conditions or illegal activities to occur on their property. The Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation is a defendant in our current case.
• Individual Alumni and Other Facilitators: In some instances, alumni or community members may host or participate in hazing activities. Our lawsuit specifies that a former member and his spouse are defendants because some major hazing sessions occurred at their private residence, implicating them for premises liability and enabling the abuse.
• Insurance Carriers: While not directly responsible for the hazing itself, the insurance policies held by national fraternities, universities, housing corporations, and even individuals (such as homeowner’s or renter’s insurance) are often where the substantial compensation for victims is found. As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena possess unique insight into how insurance companies operate and how to maximize recovery from these “deep pockets.”

This comprehensive approach is crucial because hazing is rarely the act of a single individual. It is often a deeply ingrained cultural issue, sustained by a network of direct participants, enablers, and institutions that turn a blind eye. Our goal is to dismantle that network and ensure every contributing party is held accountable.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof of Accountability

For Bartow County families grappling with the aftermath of hazing, understanding the potential financial recovery is critical. These cases are not just about monetary compensation; they are about demanding accountability from powerful institutions that prioritize reputation over safety. Our firm has seen firsthand how substantial verdicts and settlements can drive significant change and prevent future harm.

The multi-million dollar figures achieved in hazing litigation nationwide demonstrate that victims and their families can and do win big. This sends a powerful message that hazing carries a high price, forcing fraternities, universities, and national organizations to confront their dangerous practices.

Landmark Verdicts & Settlements That Send a Message:

• Stone Foltz — Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021) — $10.1 Million+
  Stone Foltz tragically died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation event. The university and fraternity were held accountable. Bowling Green State University settled for $2.9 million, and Pi Kappa Alpha, along with individuals, settled for a combined $7.2 million. Most recently, in December 2024, a Ohio jury ordered the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, to pay $6.5 million personally, including $4 million for wrongful death, and $2 million for the pain and suffering of Stone’s siblings. This case is a direct precedent for our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case. It proved that both institutions and individuals face massive liability.
• Maxwell Gruver — Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017) — $6.1 Million Verdict
  Maxwell Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, died from acute alcohol poisoning with a BAC of 0.495 after a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” event where pledges were forced to drink heavily for incorrect answers. A jury awarded his family $6.1 million, and the case led to the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana. This verdict firmly established that juries will award millions for hazing deaths.
• Timothy Piazza — Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017) — $110 Million+ (Estimated)
  Timothy Piazza died from a traumatic brain injury after being forced to “the gauntlet,” consuming 18 drinks in 82 minutes. Fraternity brothers waited 12 hours to call 911, and the entire incident was captured on security cameras. This case, settled confidentially for an estimated $110 million+, demonstrated that when evidence is strong and the conduct egregious, settlements can reach staggering amounts. It also led to Pennsylvania’s landmark Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.
• Adam Oakes — Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021) — $4 Million+ Settlement
  Adam Oakes died from alcohol poisoning after a Delta Chi hazing ritual. His family sued for $28 million and ultimately secured a settlement of over $4 million in October 2024, in addition to creating the “Love Like Adam” Foundation and inspiring “Adam’s Law” in Virginia. This shows substantial recoveries are possible even when cases settle out of court, and that families can drive legislative change.

Why These Precedents Matter to Bartow County Families:

• Your Case Has Value: These multi-million dollar outcomes prove that hazing cases have significant value. The pain, suffering, medical costs, and loss endured by hazing victims and their families are real and demand substantial compensation.
• Institutions Will Pay: Universities and national fraternities consistently contribute millions to these settlements. They have the financial resources and the insurance to pay.
• Accountability for Individuals: The $6.5 million personal judgment against the Pi Kappa Alpha chapter president in the Stone Foltz case sends a clear message: individual perpetrators also face severe financial consequences. Our lawsuit names individual members of Pi Kappa Phi; their personal assets are at risk.
• Driving Change: These landmark cases don’t just secure justice for victims; they catalyze legislative action and cultural shifts within universities and Greek life. Your Bartow County case could be the catalyst for change in your community.
• Our $10 Million Demand is Justified: The Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, with its egregious acts of waterboarding and life-threatening injuries, aligns with and often exceeds the severity of hazing incidents that have commanded multi-million dollar payouts. Our $10 million demand is firmly rooted in established precedent.

We are not just litigating; we are sending a message to every fraternity, every university in Bartow County and beyond: Hazing will cost you. We have the receipts, and we are prepared to fight tirelessly for Bartow County victims until justice is served and lives are saved.

Legal Framework: Protecting Bartow County Victims Under the Law

For parents in Bartow County, understanding the legal landscape is crucial for seeking justice after a hazing incident. While our firm is based in Texas, the principles of civil liability for hazing are broadly applicable across states. Moreover, our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) position us uniquely to pursue these cases regardless of where the hazing occurred, by leveraging national fraternity structures and federal civil rights claims.

Texas Anti-Hazing Law: A Model of Protection

Texas has robust anti-hazing laws embedded in its Education Code (§ 37.151-37.157). These statutes provide a clear definition of hazing, outline criminal penalties, establish organizational liability, and, critically, remove the defense of consent.

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Texas law broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student for the purpose of joining or maintaining membership in an organization, if the act:

• Involves physical brutality (like whipping, beating, striking, branding).
• Involves sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, confinement, calisthenics, or other activities posing an unreasonable risk of harm or affecting mental/physical health.
• Involves forced consumption of food, liquid, or alcohol that poses an unreasonable risk.
• Requires performing a duty that violates the Penal Code.
• Involves coercing a student to consume drugs or alcohol to the point of intoxication.

Leonel Bermudez’s experience directly meets multiple aspects of this definition, including physical brutality (paddles), calisthenics creating unreasonable risk (500 squats leading to kidney failure), forced consumption (eating until vomiting), and exposure to elements (sprayed with a hose in cold weather). This is what legal hazing looks like.

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Individuals who engage in hazing face misdemeanor charges, but if hazing causes serious bodily injury (like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure), it escalates to a Class A Misdemeanor (up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine). If hazing causes death, it becomes a State Jail Felony (up to two years in state jail and a $10,000 fine). This means that hazing perpetrators can face both criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Organizations that condone or encourage hazing, or whose officers, members, pledges, or alumni participate in or assist hazing, can be penalized. Penalties include fines up to $10,000 and the denial of permission to operate on campus. This allows us to target local chapters and national organizations directly.

Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is perhaps the most critical aspect of Texas law and a powerful tool in civil litigation. The statute explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution… that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.” This unequivocally destroys the common defense used by fraternities and universities: “He agreed to it.” When Bartow County families confront this argument, the law is on their side. You cannot consent to being a victim of a crime, and hazing is often criminal.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Charges

Even if criminal charges are not filed or do not lead to conviction, hazing victims in Bartow County can still pursue robust civil lawsuits based on several legal theories:

• Negligence: This is the most common claim. It argues that the fraternity, university, or individuals had a duty of care to protect the student, breached that duty through their hazing activities or failure to prevent them, and that this breach caused the student’s injuries and damages.
• Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university or a housing corporation (like the UH-owned fraternity house in Leonel’s case), these entities can be held liable for allowing dangerous conditions to exist on their premises.
• Negligent Supervision: This theory holds national organizations and universities responsible for failing to adequately supervise their chapters and student organizations, especially when they had prior knowledge of hazing risks.
• Assault and Battery: Direct physical harm, such as paddling, forced excessive exercise, or simulated waterboarding, can lead to civil claims for assault and battery against the individual perpetrators.
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): When hazing involves extreme and outrageous conduct that causes severe emotional distress, victims can sue for IIED. Leonel’s experience, which includes simulated torture, clearly falls into this category.
• Wrongful Death: In tragic cases where hazing leads to a student’s death, families can file wrongful death lawsuits to recover compensation for their profound loss, including funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and lost future earnings.

For Bartow County families, it’s important to remember that these civil claims exist in virtually every state. Our firm’s expertise in federal court and our understanding of national fraternity structures mean that the specific location of the hazing incident does not limit our ability to fight for justice. We adapt our legal strategy to the specific laws and jurisdiction, ensuring our clients receive the most effective representation possible.

The core message is clear: the law protects victims. It is designed to hold those who perpetrate or enable hazing accountable. And we are here to ensure those laws are vigorously applied.

Why Attorney 911: Your Trusted Advocate in Bartow County and Beyond

If your child in Bartow County has been subjected to hazing, you are facing one of the most challenging moments of your life. Choosing the right legal partner is paramount. At Attorney 911, we are not just lawyers; we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™ with a profound commitment to justice for hazing victims. Our approach is distinguished by a unique blend of experience, insight, and aggressive advocacy that translates into tangible results for families like yours, no matter where the hazing occurred—be it in Bartow County or across the nation.

Unparalleled Experience and Insight:

• 25+ Years of Courtroom Experience: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, brings over two decades of battle-tested courtroom experience to every case. He has a proven track record of handling complex, high-stakes litigation against massive corporate defendants, including his involvement in the multi-billion dollar BP Texas City Explosion litigation. This experience is directly applicable to hazing cases, where we confront large universities and national fraternities.
• Former Insurance Defense Attorneys: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena previously worked on the defense side for insurance companies. This invaluable insider knowledge means we understand exactly how the opposition thinks, strategizes, and attempts to minimize or deny claims. Mr. Pena’s background at Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm, gives us a critical advantage in dismantling defense arguments and maximizing recovery for victims. We’ve seen their playbook, and we use it against them.
• Federal Court Admissions & Dual-State Bar Licenses: Our attorneys are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and Ralph is licensed in both Texas and New York. This grants us federal court authority and a strategic advantage in cases against national fraternities, many of which are headquartered outside of Texas. For Bartow County families, this means we can pursue your case in federal courts, which are often more efficient and can provide broader jurisdiction over national organizations.

A Relentless and Data-Driven Approach:

We don’t just talk about fighting hazing; we’re in the trenches right now. The Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case is not hypothetical; it’s a live, ongoing $10 million lawsuit. This case exemplifies our aggressive, data-driven approach:

• Comprehensive Hazing Intelligence Database: We maintain one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations in Texas, including IRS B83 data, EINs, legal names, addresses, house corporations, and alumni chapters. This allows us to accurately identify every entity behind the Greek letters, so we know precisely who to sue.
  For instance, our database includes organizations like:
  • Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN 462267515, Frisco, Texas)
  • Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation (EIN 371768785, Missouri City, Texas)
  • Kappa Sigma Mu Gamma Chapter Inc (EIN 133048786, College Station, Texas)
  • Sigma Alpha Epsilon Texas Sigma Incorporated (EIN 882755427, San Marcos, Texas)
    These are not just names; they are the corporate structures and assets we target. Our analysis shows there are 1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 metropolitan areas in Texas alone, with 188 in the Houston metro and 154 in the Austin metro. We know where the organizations are, and we know their history of settlements. This meticulous data collection ensures we leave no stone unturned when pursuing accountability. The Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation, with its IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN) 462267515, is a named defendant in our lawsuit, precisely because we track these entities.
• Proven Results in Complex Litigation: From Leonel Bermudez’s fight for justice to our prior success in mass torts, we are known for building cases with expert witnesses, preserving evidence immediately, and negotiating from a position of strength. We are always prepared to take cases to trial if necessary, as demonstrated by our record of success against powerful opponents.

Empathy, Accessibility, and Nationwide Reach for Bartow County:

• Parent-Facing and Empathetic Tone: We understand that Bartow County families are often in distress. Our commitment is to provide warm, educational, and humble support. We prioritize clear communication, avoiding jargon, and ensuring you feel heard and understood. We are not a cold, clinical legal factory; we are a dedicated partner in your fight.
• “Se Habla Español”: Our bilingual staff ensures that Spanish-speaking families in Bartow County receive comprehensive legal services and feel comfortable communicating without language barriers. Mr. Peña, a fluent Spanish speaker, ensures vital information is conveyed clearly.
• Contingency Fees – No Upfront Cost: We understand the financial strain of a legal battle. We take hazing cases on contingency, meaning Bartow County families pay absolutely nothing upfront. We only get paid if and when we win your case. This eliminates financial barriers and aligns our interests directly with yours.
• We Come to You: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, distance is not a barrier to justice. We travel to Bartow County for depositions, meetings, and trials as needed. We also offer secure video consultations, so Bartow County families can connect with our attorneys remotely and receive immediate assistance.
• High-Profile Case Experience: Ralph Manginello’s handling of high-profile cases, such as the Ryan Mitchell Smith case covered by ABC13, demonstrates our ability to navigate sensitive, emotionally charged situations that attract media attention, all while protecting our clients’ best interests. For Bartow County families, this means your case, if it garners public attention, will be handled with expert care.
• Community Roots and Personal Investment: Ralph Manginello, a father of three and a coach, deeply understands the pressures young people face. This personal connection fuels our emotional investment in hazing victims, ensuring that every Bartow County family we represent is treated like our own. Mr. Peña is a third-generation Texan with deep roots in the community.

Choosing Attorney 911 means choosing a team that is aggressive, thorough, empathetic, and uniquely equipped to fight for justice. We are not theoretical; we are actively fighting in court right now. And we will bring that same relentless advocacy to Bartow County families.

What to Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Bartow County Families

If you or your child in Bartow County has been harmed by hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. Taking the right steps can significantly impact your ability to seek justice and recover compensation. Delay can compromise evidence and weaken your case. These steps are designed for a scared parent searching for help at 2 AM, offering clear, actionable guidance.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention, No Matter How Minor the Injury Appears:

   • Prioritize Health: Your child’s physical and mental well-being is paramount. Even if injuries seem minor, or if they claim to be “fine” due to adrenaline or fear, get them medical care immediately.
   • Document Everything: Emergency room visits, doctor’s notes, x-rays, blood tests (especially for rhabdomyolysis markers like creatine kinase), and psychiatric evaluations create an essential paper trail. Medical records are objective proof of harm. For Leonel Bermudez, his mother rushing him to the hospital, observing his brown urine, and doctors diagnosing kidney failure provided undeniable evidence.
   • Retain All Medical Documentation: Keep every bill, every receipt, every aftercare instruction.

2. Preserve All Possible Evidence — Meticulously:

   • Digital Communications: This is a goldmine. Collect screenshots of all text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat conversations, Instagram DMs, Facebook Messenger chats, and emails related to the hazing. Do not delete ANYTHING, even if it seems innocuous. This includes messages from other members, pledges, or witnesses.
     • Our firm frequently uses cell phone data to reconstruct events and prove coercion beyond a reasonable doubt. For the Bermudez case, detailed allegations of threats and activities are crucial.
   • Photos and Videos: If any photos or videos of the hazing activities exist, secure them. Also, take clear, well-lit photos of any physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, swelling) as they appear, and as they heal. This can be directly linked to the pain and suffering your child endured.
   • Physical Evidence: Keep any clothing worn during the hazing, items used in the hazing (if safe to obtain), or anything else connected to the incident.
   • Witness Information: Collect the full names and contact information (phone numbers, social media handles) of any other pledges, fraternity/sorority members, bystanders, or university staff who may have witnessed the hazing or had knowledge of it. Their testimony can be invaluable.
   • Fraternity/University Documents: Save any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, codes of conduct, or communications your child received from the fraternity, sorority, or university Greek life office.

3. Do NOT Communicate with the Fraternity, University, or Their Representatives Without Legal Counsel:

   • They Are Not On Your Side: The university’s risk management department, the national fraternity’s legal team, and their insurance adjusters are trained to minimize liability, not to help your child. They may try to get your child to sign documents, make statements, or admit fault.
   • Decline All Interviews and Statements: Politely decline to give any statements, whether written, verbal, or recorded, to anyone representing the fraternity, university, or their insurers. Refer them to your attorney.
   • Do Not Sign Anything: Never sign any waivers, releases, or pre-emptive settlement offers without first consulting with an attorney. You could unwittingly forfeit your rights.

4. Stay Off Social Media — Completely:

   • Digital Footprint: Assume everything your child posts or has posted online is discoverable and will be used against them. A picture of them smiling at a party, or a post declaring they are “fine,” can be twisted by defense attorneys to undermine their claims of injury or emotional distress.
   • Avoid Discussion: Do not post about the hazing incident, criticize the fraternity or university, or engage with members online. Anything your child says can be misconstrued.
   • Do Not Delete Old Posts: This can be seen as destruction of evidence. It’s best to maintain a complete social media blackout regarding the incident and their well-being.

5. Contact Attorney 911 Immediately — Time is of the Essence:

   • Statute of Limitations: In most states, including Texas, personal injury lawsuits have a two-year statute of limitations. This means you generally have two years from the date of injury (or death) to file a lawsuit. For Bartow County families, this deadline is critical. Waiting too long can mean losing your right to sue forever.
     • As Ralph Manginello discusses in our “Texas Statutes of Limitations” video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c), these deadlines are firm, though exceptions sometimes exist for minors or delayed discovery of injury.
   • Evidence Disappears: The longer you wait, the more likely physical evidence will be cleaned up, digital evidence will be deleted, and witness memories will fade. Your child’s privacy concerns and fear of retribution are valid, but timely action makes a stronger case. For Bermudez, his hospitalization on November 6 and our lawsuit filing within weeks exemplifies acting immediately to protect evidence and rights.
   • Free Consultation: We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to Bartow County families. You pay nothing upfront, and our case evaluation will determine the best course of action. Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911.

Bartow County families, if your child experienced waterboarding, forced physical abuse, forced consumption, or any other form of hazing, recognize that this is a legal emergency. We are equipped to handle these cases aggressively, with deep knowledge of cultural nuances in higher education settings throughout Georgia and across the country. We will fight for your family with the same fury and dedication we are bringing to the $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline for Hazing Victims in Bartow County

If your child in Bartow County has been subjected to the horrors of hazing, you are likely feeling overwhelmed, angry, and desperate for justice. Please know that you are not alone, and you have powerful legal allies ready to fight by your side. At Attorney 911, we are more than just lawyers; we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™ dedicated to representing hazing victims and their families across the nation, bringing our deep expertise and aggressive approach directly to Bartow County.

Our attorneys are currently in the thick of a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for the egregious hazing of Leonel Bermudez. This isn’t theoretical; it’s a battle we are fighting right now, proving our commitment and capability. The same legal strategies, the same dedication, and the same relentless pursuit of accountability that we bring to this landmark case, we will bring to your family in Bartow County.

Bartow County Families, Call Our Legal Emergency Hotline Now for A Free Consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

This hotline is available 24/7 for Bartow County hazing emergencies. When you call, you’ll speak with a compassionate, knowledgeable team member ready to listen to your story and guide you through the initial steps.

You can also reach us via email:
📧 ralph@atty911.com

Visit our website for more information:
🌐 attorney911.com

Our Commitment to Bartow County Families:

• Zero Upfront Cost: We understand that dealing with medical bills and emotional trauma is enough. We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay us absolutely nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless and until we win your case. This allows you to focus on your family’s healing without added financial burden.
  • Learn more about how contingency fees work by watching our video: “How Contingency Fees Work” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F1Nc.
• We Travel to You: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, distance is not a barrier to justice. We are prepared to travel to Bartow County for depositions, client meetings, and trials as needed. Your location will not prevent us from providing top-tier representation.
• Remote Consultations Available: For convenience and immediate support, Bartow County families can schedule secure video consultations with our attorneys. You can discuss your case from the comfort and privacy of your home.
• Nationwide Expertise: Hazing is a national crisis, and our firm has the authority to pursue justice across state lines. Our federal court admissions and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) provide strategic advantages when litigating against national fraternities, sororities, and their vast networks.
• Bilingual Services: For Spanish-speaking families in Bartow County, our “Se Habla Español” team ensures clear communication and comprehensive legal support without language barriers.

We Represent Victims of Hazing in All Forms, Including:

• Fraternities and sororities at institutions near Bartow County, such as Kennesaw State University, Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, or the University of Georgia in Athens.
• Sports teams, marching bands, and ROTC programs.
• Clubs and student organizations.
• Military academies and other groups that engage in abusive initiation rituals.

Hazing is not limited to specific types of organizations; it is a cultural problem that can infest any group that demands “initiation.”

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

If you or another student were also subjected to the hazing at the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi chapter, following the lead of Leonel Bermudez, we want to hear from you. Our lawsuit alleges a pattern of abuse, and we know our client was not the only one harmed. Another pledge lost consciousness during a workout on October 15, and others endured the same waterboarding, forced eating, and physical torment.

You have rights too, and we can represent you. As Mr. Peña stated, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Call us. Let’s send a powerful message to every institution in Bartow County and beyond: Hazing will not be tolerated, and those who perpetrate it or allow it to happen will be held fully accountable.

The time to act is now. Your call can change lives.