If you’re reading this, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college. Instead, they were tortured. We’re here to help families in Camden County, Georgia, fight back.

We are Attorney911, and we represent families nationwide who have suffered at the hands of fraternity and sorority hazing. You might be feeling scared, angry, and alone, searching the internet at 2 AM for answers. We understand what you’re going through, and we want you to know that you are not alone. We are actively fighting these battles right now, and we bring that same aggressive, data-driven approach to every case we handle, including those for families in Camden County.

Hazing is not a harmless tradition. It is abuse, plain and simple. It leads to severe physical injuries, profound psychological trauma, and, far too often, death. The nightmare our clients have endured is a stark reminder that beneath the facade of brotherhood and sisterhood, a dangerous culture of violence and degradation often hides. We believe that every institution and individual responsible for these horrors must be held accountable. And for families in Camden County, Georgia, seeking justice, we are your unwavering advocates.

The Haunting Echoes of Tradition: Hazing in America

Hazing remains a devastating reality across college campuses nationwide, including those where students from Camden County, Georgia might attend. It’s a problem that impacts fraternities, sororities, sports teams, clubs, and various student organizations. Despite decades of awareness campaigns, policy changes, and tragic fatalities, the practice persists, hidden behind a veil of secrecy and misguided loyalty.

The statistics are grim: over half of all students involved in Greek life experience hazing, and nearly 95% of these incidents go unreported. This silent epidemic thrives on fear – fear of retaliation, fear of social ostracization, and fear that speaking out will only make things worse. But for the victims and their families, the consequences are stark and life-altering, ranging from devastating physical injuries like rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure to enduring psychological scars like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

In Camden County, Georgia, the values of community and family are deeply cherished. Parents send their children off to college with hopes of academic growth, new friendships, and bright futures. They expect universities to be sanctuaries of learning and safety, environments where their children will be protected. When that trust is betrayed by the cruel rituals of hazing, the impact is utterly devastating, tearing at the very fabric of those family values.

Our firm, Attorney911, doesn’t just talk about the hazing crisis; we are on the front lines, actively litigating groundbreaking cases that expose the truth and demand justice. We understand that hazing happens everywhere. From large state universities to smaller regional colleges, students from Camden County, Georgia are vulnerable to these dangers, and the national fraternities and universities they attend are just as culpable as those we’re currently fighting in court.

We bring an unparalleled level of expertise, aggressive representation, and data-driven strategy to each hazing case we take on. Our mission is not only to secure maximum compensation for victims but also to send an unequivocal message to fraternities, soror and universities across America: hazing will no longer be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable.

The Landmark Case: Attorney911 vs. Pi Kappa Phi & University of Houston (2025)

This Is What Hazing Looks Like. This Is What We Do About It.

This case happened in Houston, Texas, a major metropolitan area that many Camden County, Georgia families know well, where a young man’s life was turned upside down by fraternity hazing. But the same barbaric “traditions” can happen, and do happen, at universities near Camden County, Georgia, or any college your child might attend. The same national fraternities that have chapters in Georgia operate here, and the same institutional negligence exists at colleges and universities throughout the country. Attorney911 will fight for Camden County families with the same aggression and dedication we’re bringing to this pivotal case.

In November 2025, Attorney911 filed a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court, a clear statement that we mean business. Our clients, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are relentlessly pursuing accountability against not only the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity but also a network of thirteen individual fraternity members. This lawsuit became public on November 21, 2025, and within hours, major news outlets in Houston and across the country reported on the egregious details.

Media Coverage Amplifies Our Stand for Justice:

ABC13 Houston highlighted the “abuse and hazing that led to hospitalization” on November 21-22, 2025, bringing our clients’ voices to the forefront. Read their report here: Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges
KHOU 11 immediately covered the story on November 21, 2025, detailing the severe hazing allegations that sparked our $10 million lawsuit. Learn more at: $10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations
The Houston Chronicle followed swiftly on November 22, 2025, providing an in-depth look at the shocking accusations. Access their coverage here: UH fraternity hazing lawsuit
Houston Public Media delivered their report on November 24, 2025, confirming the $10 million figure and the nature of the alleged hazing. Read their article: University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing

Perhaps most tellingly, Pi Kappa Phi National itself posted a statement on November 21, 2025, acknowledging the closure of its Beta Nu Chapter, confirming that the fraternity was aware of severe “violations.” This statement speaks volumes about their internal knowledge and response to the crisis: Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston

Meet Leonel Bermudez: The Young Man Who Dared to Trust

The plaintiff in this monumental case is Leonel Bermudez. At the time of the hazing, Leonel wasn’t even an enrolled University of Houston student. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective transfer student who planned to join UH for the upcoming semester. He accepted a bid to Pi Kappa Phi on September 16, 2025, embarking on what he hoped would be a journey of brotherhood and belonging. Instead, he was plunged into weeks of systematic abuse, physical torture, and relentless hazing that left him hospitalized for three nights and four days. His diagnosis: severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

This detail, that he wasn’t even officially enrolled, amplifies the fraternity’s reckless disregard and extends the scope of institutional liability. They subjected a young man who wasn’t even a student at their university to horrifying acts of violence.

What Happened: A Timeline of Torture

Leonel’s ordeal began immediately after he accepted his bid, enduring weeks of increasingly brutal activities:

September 16, 2025: Leonel accepts a bid from Pi Kappa Phi.
September 16 – November 3, 2025: Leonel is subjected to systematic hazing.
October 13, 2025: Another pledge is brutally hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour, while fraternity members watch.
October 15, 2025: A pledge loses consciousness and collapses during a forced workout. Other pledges are forced to elevate his legs to revive him.
November 3, 2025: As punishment for missing an event, Leonel is forced to perform over 100 pushups, 500 squats, and numerous other exercises, all while reciting the fraternity creed. He is threatened with immediate expulsion if he stops. He is pushed past his physical limits until he can no longer stand without help.
November 4-5, 2025: Leonel’s condition worsens. As Attorney Manginello recounted to ABC13, “When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse…”
November 6, 2025: Leonel’s mother rushes him to the hospital. He is passing brown urine, a critical sign of severe muscle breakdown.
November 6-10, 2025: Leonel is hospitalized for three nights and four days, diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National officially closes its Beta Nu Chapter, a week before our lawsuit is filed, indicating their immediate awareness of the severity of the situation.
November 21, 2025: Attorney911 files the $10 million lawsuit.

This Is What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond Fraternity Row Stereotypes

This is not a prank. This is not “boys being boys.” This is a pattern of abuse. The hazing Leonel endured far surpasses any misguided notion of “team-building” or “brotherhood.” It was a calculated campaign of physical and psychological torture, designed to break down individuals and enforce absolute obedience.

Here are just some of the horrific acts documented in our lawsuit and reported by Houston media:

Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” sprayed directly in the face while performing calisthenics. This is a technique condemned as torture by international human rights organizations; it was inflicted on a young student simply trying to fit in. Atlanta Public Media explicitly stated, “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.”
Extreme Forced Consumption: Pledges were forced to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and even peppercorns until they vomited. After vomiting, they were made to continue running sprints while in physical distress and lie in their own vomit-soaked grass.
Brutal Physical Punishment: The hazing involved relentless physical exertion, including over 100 pushups, 500 squats, “high-volume suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother drills,” two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. Leonel was forced to recite the fraternity creed during these exercises, pushed until he could no longer stand without assistance. In another incident, fraternity members were captured “being struck with wooden paddles.”
Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was stripped to his underwear in cold weather and forced to carry a fanny pack containing “objects of a sexual nature” at all times. The lawsuit also revealed that another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. Threats of physical punishment and expulsion enforced compliance.
Sleep Deprivation & Exhaustion: Pledges were forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, disrupting their sleep and leading to profound exhaustion.

The Medical Truth: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

The physical toll on Leonel Bermudez was severe. He was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

Rhabdomyolysis is a life-threatening condition where damaged skeletal muscle tissue rapidly breaks down, releasing its contents, including a protein called myoglobin, into the bloodstream. This myoglobin is toxic to the kidneys.
Acute kidney failure occurs when the kidneys are unable to filter waste products from the blood, a direct and severe complication of rhabdomyolysis.

Leonel’s symptoms included severe muscle pain, difficulty moving, and most alarmingly, passing brown urine—a classic sign of myoglobin in the urine (myoglobinuria), confirming widespread muscle damage. His medical tests revealed “very high creatine kinase levels,” further evidence of extreme muscle breakdown. He required intensive medical treatment and spent three nights and four days in the hospital. The long-term risks include chronic kidney disease, the need for dialysis, or even a kidney transplant.

This is the same medical condition Attorney Manginello has successfully litigated in previous hazing cases, demonstrating his specific expertise in handling these complex and devastating injuries.

Institutional Responses: A Pattern of Damage Control, Not Accountability

The responses from both the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters following Leonel’s hospitalization speak volumes:

University of Houston Spokesperson (Houston Public Media): Admitted the events were “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of our community standards,” confirming an internal investigation and potential criminal charges. This statement reveals the university’s awareness of severe misconduct and its responsibility to act.
Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters (Their Website): Announced the closure of the Beta Nu Chapter, effective November 14, 2025—a full week before our lawsuit was filed. They stated this action was “following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This pre-emptive closure is a clear indicator of their internal assessment of egregious wrongdoing and an attempt to mitigate public relations damage and legal liability. Their statement, “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time,” also demonstrates a troubling lack of remorse and an intention to resume operations after public scrutiny subsides.

Who Is Responsible: Every Entity That Participated Or Allowed It

Our $10 million lawsuit meticulously names every entity we believe bears legal responsibility for Leonel’s injuries. This includes:

Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter): For directly organizing and conducting the hazing.
Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters: For failing to enforce anti-hazing rules and policies despite knowledge of a “hazing crisis” and a documented history of deadly hazing incidents across their chapters, including the death of Andrew Coffey in 2017.
Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation: For owning and controlling the chapter property where hazing occurred and failing to prevent it.
University of Houston: For owning the fraternity house where the hazing took place, failing to prevent hazing despite a prior incident in 2017 involving another fraternity, and failing to adequately supervise Greek life on its campus.
The UH Board of Regents: For overarching institutional oversight failures.
Individual Fraternity Members: Including the fraternity president, pledgemaster, current members who participated, and even a former member and his spouse at whose residence some of the hazing tragically occurred. The involvement of a former member and his spouse expands the net of liability to include individuals who may mistakenly believe they are beyond the reach of the law.

These are not merely angry accusations. They are carefully constructed legal arguments, backed by a deep understanding of relevant laws and case precedents.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

In Camden County, Georgia, parents often envision college as a time of personal growth, academic achievement, and forming lifelong friendships. The reality of modern hazing, however, shatters these idyllic notions. It’s not just harmless pranks or silly initiations; it’s systematic abuse, physical brutality, and psychological torment. If your child is pledging a fraternity, sorority, or any student organization, it is vital to understand the true face of hazing, which is often far more sinister than what is portrayed in movies or popular culture.

Hazing tactics are designed to break down individuals, enforce conformity, and create a false sense of loyalty through shared humiliation and suffering. Tragically, these activities frequently lead to severe physical harm and lasting psychological damage.

Here’s a closer look at common hazing incidents, often disguised as “tradition” or “brotherhood”:

Physical Abuse: This is the most visible and often most dangerous form of hazing. It includes beatings, paddling (as seen in our current case), branding, burning, forced exposure to extreme temperatures, and forced ingestion of harmful substances. Pledges might be subjected to endless calisthenics, brutal workouts, and forced marches until the point of collapse, leading to serious medical conditions like the rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure experienced by Leonel Bermudez.
Forced Consumption: A tragically common element, especially with alcohol. This involves binge drinking, chugging contests, or consuming spirits until blackouts or even death. Beyond alcohol, pledges are forced to eat vast quantities of bizarre or spoiled foods, like the milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns in Leonel’s case, often until they vomit, only to be forced to continue or suffer further humiliation.
Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often intentionally deprived of sleep through late-night activities, early-morning calls, or forced servitude, leading to extreme fatigue, impaired judgment, and vulnerability. Leonel was forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, contributing to his exhaustion.
Psychological Torture & Humiliation: This targets a victim’s mental and emotional well-being. It includes verbal abuse, ridicule, public humiliation (like carrying sexually suggestive items or being stripped in public), isolation, and threats. The hog-tying incident in our case, where a pledge was left with an object in his mouth, exemplifies this extreme degradation. This form of hazing can result in severe long-term damage, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and difficulties forming trusting relationships.
Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As revealed in Leonel’s case, this extreme form of torture involves spraying water into a subject’s face to simulate drowning. It’s a terrifying and deeply traumatizing act recognized internationally as torture.
Servitude and Dehumanization: Pledges are often compelled to act as servants for active members, performing mundane, humiliating, or illegal tasks. This can include driving members, cleaning their rooms, performing errands, or maintaining an arbitrary, demeaning dress code.

The Medical Realities: The consequences of such hazing are dire. Beyond injuries like broken bones, lacerations, or burns, victims can suffer:

Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure: Directly from extreme physical overexertion, as in Leonel’s case.
Alcohol Poisoning: A leading cause of hazing deaths, often resulting in organ failure.
Traumatic Brain Injury: From falls, beatings, or violent impacts.
Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From forced exposure to extreme weather conditions.
Cardiac Arrest: Especially in individuals with underlying heart conditions, triggered by extreme exertion.
Profound Psychological Trauma: Long-term effects like PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation, requiring extensive therapy and support.

These are not abstract dangers. They are the horrific realities faced by students across the country, realities that Camden County families should be acutely aware of. When your child attends college, regardless of its location in Georgia or beyond, if they engage with Greek life or other organizations, these are the risks they face.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Liable Party Accountable

For families in Camden County, Georgia, trying to understand who is accountable when a child is harmed by hazing can feel overwhelming. The truth is, hazing rarely involves a single perpetrator. Instead, it’s a complex web of individual actions, organizational negligence, and institutional failures. At Attorney911, our strategy, exemplified by the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, is to identify and pursue every single party that bears responsibility. This comprehensive approach ensures that justice is thorough and impactful.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical liable parties we target:

The Local Chapter (e.g., University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter): This is the immediate site of the hazing. The chapter, as an entity separate from the national organization, directly organizes and conducts the hazing activities. Its officers, such as the president and pledgemaster, are usually central to directing these abusive rituals. Every member who actively participates in, encourages, or fails to intervene in hazing activities can be held jointly liable.
- Basis for Liability: Direct participation, negligent supervision of pledges, creation of a harmful environment, and often, premises liability if the hazing occurs in the chapter house.
The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization (e.g., Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters): These are the much larger, well-funded entities that oversee hundreds of local chapters across the nation. They have a duty to ensure their local chapters comply with anti-hazing policies, train members, and maintain a safe environment. Despite often having strict anti-hazing rules on paper, many national organizations are aware of an endemic hazing culture within their system, yet fail to take sufficient action. The death of Andrew Coffey at an FSU Pi Kappa Phi chapter in 2017, followed by Leonel Bermudez’s hospitalization in 2025 at another Pi Kappa Phi chapter, demonstrates a clear pattern of negligence and a failure by the national organization to adequately address deadly hazing culture within their ranks.
- Basis for Liability: Negligent supervision, failure to train, failure to enforce policies, pattern of violations (as alleged in our lawsuit where they had knowledge of “a hazing crisis”), direct liability if they condone or encourage hazing, and vicarious liability for the actions of their local chapters. National organizations often hold substantial assets and multiple layers of insurance coverage, making them key targets for substantial damages.
The University or College (e.g., University of Houston, UH Board of Regents): Educational institutions have a fundamental duty to protect their students. This duty is amplified when they own the property where hazing occurs (as UH owned the Pi Kappa Phi house) or when they have prior knowledge of hazing problems on their campus (as UH did with a 2017 hazing hospitalization). Universities have the power to regulate, suspend, or permanently remove student organizations, but too often, they prioritize reputation and donor relations over student safety. They also have Title IX obligations for sexual harassment and assault, which often intersect with hazing.
- Basis for Liability: Negligent supervision of student organizations, premises liability (for hazing on university-owned property), failure to warn, failure to enforce anti-hazing policies, and sometimes, a hostile environment claim under Title IX. The UH Board of Regents, as the governing body, shares in this institutional liability.
Individual Perpetrators: Beyond the known officers, any individual member who actively participates in hazing, or even witnesses it and fails to report or intervene, can be held personally liable. This includes former members who might host hazing events at their residences (as seen in our case where a former member and his spouse are named defendants).
- Basis for Liability: Direct participation in assault, battery, false imprisonment, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and conspiracy to commit hazing. Personal liability is crucial not only for holding individuals accountable but also for potentially accessing homeowner’s insurance policies that could provide additional compensation.
Insurance Carriers: While not direct perpetrators, insurance companies play a critical role. National fraternities, universities, and even individuals often carry various forms of liability insurance. Identifying and tapping into these policies is essential for ensuring victims receive full compensation. As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena have insider knowledge of how these companies operate, giving our clients a distinct advantage in navigating complex claims and maximizing payouts.
- Basis for Liability: Contractual obligation to cover incidents as defined by the policy, though they will often seek to deny or minimize claims.

For Camden County families whose child has suffered from hazing, understanding this multi-faceted accountability is key. It ensures that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of justice, and that everyone who contributed to the harm is made to answer for their actions.

Multimillion-Dollar Proof: What Hazing Cases Win

For families in Camden County, Georgia, facing the aftermath of hazing, understanding the potential for meaningful financial recovery is crucial. These are not merely symbolic gestures; they are substantial verdicts and settlements that send an undeniable message: hazing will cost you millions. Attorney911 operates with the knowledge that our $10 million demand in the current Bermudez case is not an outlier, but completely justified by established legal precedents. These results are not just for cases in distant states; the same legal strategies and principles apply to hazing cases for victims from Camden County, Georgia, and across the nation.

Here, we highlight landmark cases that demonstrate the significant financial and legal repercussions faced by fraternities, universities, and individuals involved in hazing incidents:

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)

Total Payout: $10.1 Million+

The Tragedy: In March 2021, 20-year-old Stone Foltz, a pledge at Pi Kappa Alpha, was fatally hazed at Bowling Green State University. He was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol and was found unresponsive the next morning, dying from acute alcohol poisoning.
The Accountability: His family reached a $2.9 million settlement with Bowling Green State University, marking the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio’s history. Combined with settlements from Pi Kappa Alpha National and individual fraternity members, the total recovery exceeded $7.2 million, bringing the grand total to over $10.1 million. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal convictions, and the chapter was permanently expelled.
Significance for Camden County Families: This case directly validates our $10 million demand. It proves that both universities and national fraternities are held to account for millions, even when the hazing occurs primarily off-campus.

Maxwell Gruver – Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Total Verdict: $6.1 Million

The Tragedy: In September 2017, 18-year-old Max Gruver, an LSU freshman pledging Phi Delta Theta, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Bible Study” hazing ritual. Pledges were forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol, with every wrong answer to fraternity trivia resulting in more forced consumption. His blood alcohol content was a staggering 0.495%.
The Accountability: A jury delivered a $6.1 million verdict against the fraternity and individuals. This case also led to criminal convictions, including a negligent homicide charge, and spurred the creation of the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
Significance for Camden County Families: This jury verdict underscores that families can win significant amounts at trial, and that juries are willing to punish hazing severely.

Timothy Piazza – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017)

Total Payout: $110 Million+ (Estimated)

The Tragedy: In February 2017, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after a Beta Theta Pi hazing event at Penn State. He was forced to consume 18 alcoholic drinks in 82 minutes, leading to a near-fatal BAC of 0.36. He fell multiple times, suffering a severe traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity brothers waited 12 agonizing hours before calling 911. Security cameras inside the house captured the horrifying cover-up.
The Accountability: While the exact settlement amount remains confidential, it is estimated to be over $110 million, a testament to the egregious nature of the conduct and undeniable evidence. Numerous fraternity members faced criminal charges, with several convicted of involuntary manslaughter, hazing, and assault. The tragedy led to Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.”
Significance for Camden County Families: When evidence is strong, and the conduct is heinous, the financial repercussions for institutions and fraternities can be colossal. It highlights the importance of evidence preservation, which our firm prioritizes.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

The Same Fraternity as Our Current Case

The Tragedy: On November 3, 2017, 20-year-old Andrew Coffey died from alcohol poisoning during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” hazing ritual at Florida State University, where he was forced to consume an entire bottle of bourbon.
The Accountability: Multiple fraternity members were criminally charged. The FSU chapter was permanently closed. While the civil settlement amount was confidential, the national organization faced significant legal and reputational damage.
Significance for Camden County Families: This is devastating for Pi Kappa Phi and crucially important for Leonel Bermudez’s case. It proves that Pi Kappa Phi National had actual knowledge of deadly hazing within its chapters as early as 2017. Their failure to prevent another severe incident 8 years later (Leonel’s hospitalization in 2025) demonstrates a pattern of negligence and conscious indifference, which heavily supports punitive damages.

Other Notable Cases Demonstrating the Pattern:

University of Alabama / Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2023): A multi-million dollar lawsuit was filed for a traumatic brain injury (TBI) suffered during hazing, showing that non-fatal yet serious injuries also command significant legal action.
University of Houston / Pi Kappa Alpha (2017): Importantly, the University of Houston itself had a previous hazing incident in 2017 where a student suffered a lacerated spleen, leading to a $1 million lawsuit. This establishes institutional knowledge and failure to act on UH’s part, a critical element in our case.

These precedent cases collectively paint a clear picture for Camden County families: hazing results in massive financial consequences for the responsible parties. With jury verdicts reaching into the millions and settlements soaring beyond $100 million, the legal landscape for hazing victims has shifted dramatically. Attorney911 leverages these precedents to aggressively pursue justice and maximum compensation for every client, ensuring that institutions and individuals pay heavily for their negligence.

Texas Law Protects You: Consent Is Not a Defense

For families in Camden County, Georgia, dealing with a hazing incident, understanding the legal landscape is paramount. While this overview focuses on Texas law, it’s important to remember that most states have strong anti-hazing statutes, and federal civil rights laws offer additional avenues for justice, regardless of where the incident occurred. Attorney911, with our federal court authority and dual-state bar admissions (Texas and New York), is uniquely positioned to pursue hazing cases across state lines.

The most critical legal principle that provides immense protection for hazing victims is enshrined in statute:

Texas Education Code § 37.154:
“It is not a defense to prosecution for an offense under this subchapter that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

This is not legalese; it is a declaration of profound legal and moral importance. If your child was hazed, any claim that “they agreed to it,” “they wanted to join,” or “everyone goes through it” is irrelevant and, by law, cannot be used as a defense. You cannot consent to be criminally assaulted or hazed in Texas. This completely nullifies one of the most common and manipulative defenses used by fraternities, universities, and individual perpetrators.

Defining Hazing Under Texas Law (§ 37.151):

Texas law broadly defines hazing to cover a wide range of harmful activities, clearly encompassing what Leonel Bermudez endured. An “intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus… directed against a student for the purpose of pledging… if the act…” falls under several categories, including:

Physical Brutality: Such as striking, beating, branding, or placing harmful substances on the body. This directly applies to the wooden paddles, severe forced exercise, and hose spraying Leonel experienced.
Activities Endangering Health/Safety: Including sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement, or calisthenics that pose “an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.” This covers Leonel’s extreme workouts, exposure in cold weather, waterboarding, sleep deprivation, and the resulting rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure.
Forced Consumption: Involving food, liquid, alcohol, or other substances that create an “unreasonable risk of harm.” This directly addresses the forced eating of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting.
Criminal Acts: Any activity that requires a student to perform a duty or task that violates the Texas Penal Code.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing (§ 37.152):

Hazing is not just a violation of university policy; it is a crime in Texas, with penalties ranging from misdemeanors to felonies:

Class B Misdemeanor: For engaging in hazing, soliciting it, or having firsthand knowledge and failing to report it.
Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes “serious bodily injury.” Given Leonel’s severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, this level of offense is directly applicable to the perpetrators in his case, carrying penalties of up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
State Jail Felony: If hazing causes death.

The university administration themselves, in a statement regarding the Bermudez case, explicitly mentioned “potential criminal charges,” underscoring the severity of the alleged conduct.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):

Beyond individuals, organizations themselves can be penalized if they “condone or encourage hazing” or if their members commit or assist in hazing. Penalties can include fines up to $10,000, denial of campus operating rights, and forfeiture of property. This ensures that the collective entity, not just individual members, faces consequences.

Civil Liability: Seeking Justice and Compensation

Beyond criminal charges, hazing victims and their families can pursue powerful civil lawsuits to recover damages. These civil claims—which exist in states like Georgia and nationwide—allow us to hold multiple parties accountable:

Negligence Claims: We prove that universities and fraternity organizations had a duty of care to protect students, that they breached this duty by allowing hazing, and that this breach directly caused the victim’s injuries and damages. This is a foundational claim in almost every hazing lawsuit.
Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on university-owned property (as was the case for Leonel Bermudez), the university, as the property owner, can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment and allowing dangerous conditions to exist.
Negligent Supervision: This applies to national organizations that fail to adequately supervise their local chapters and to universities that fail to properly oversee Greek life and student organizations.
Assault and Battery: Individual fraternity members who physically harm victims can be sued for intentional torts, allowing for direct personal accountability.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: Hazing acts, particularly those as egregious as waterboarding or extreme humiliation, can constitute “outrageous conduct” leading to severe emotional distress, forming the basis for this claim.
Wrongful Death Claims: In the tragic event of a hazing death, families can sue for the loss of companionship, financial support, and punitive damages.

For families in Camden County, Georgia, this robust legal framework means that justice can be found. The laws are on your side, and with experienced counsel like Attorney911, you have a powerful advocate to navigate these complex legal waters.

Why Choose Attorney911: Your Unfair Advantage in Hazing Litigation

When your child has been subjected to the horrors of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need an advocate with unwavering resolve, proven expertise, and the strategic insight to win. For families in Camden County, Georgia, Attorney911 offers precisely that – an unfair advantage against powerful institutions and well-funded national fraternities. We are not just another personal injury firm; we are specialists in hazing litigation, currently in the trenches fighting a $10 million battle against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston.

Here’s why families in Camden County and across America choose Attorney911:

1. We Are Actively Litigating Hazing Cases Right Now.

Our involvement in the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi & University of Houston case is not theoretical; it’s a live, ongoing $10 million lawsuit. This means we are constantly refining our strategies, gathering intelligence, and staying ahead of the curve in hazing litigation. When you choose us, you’re not getting lawyers who hope to handle hazing cases; you’re getting attorneys who are actively battling them. The lessons learned, the tactics developed, and the resolve strengthened in this high-stakes case are immediately transferable to your case in Camden County.

2. Dual Expertise: Former Insurance Defense Attorneys.

Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena spent significant portions of their careers working for insurance defense firms. This isn’t just a resume bullet point; it’s a strategic superpower.

Ralph P. Manginello, with over 25 years of courtroom experience, began his career on the defense side. He knows exactly how insurance companies value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts. He’s seen their playbook from the inside and now uses that knowledge to dismantle their arguments and maximize recovery for our clients.
Lupe Peña, a third-generation Texan who cut his teeth at the national defense firm Litchfield Cavo LLP, understands the intricate workings of the corporate defense machine. He learned firsthand the tactics large insurance companies use to lowball victims and delay justice. This insider knowledge is an invaluable weapon for our Camden County clients, allowing us to anticipate countermeasures and negotiate from a position of strength.

When you hire Attorney911, you’re not just getting legal representation; you’re getting former insiders who know exactly how the other side thinks, operates, and tries to win.

3. Battle-Tested in High-Stakes Litigation.

Ralph Manginello’s experience spans over two decades, including his involvement in the multi-billion dollar BP Texas City Explosion Litigation. This mass tort case, which involved 15 deaths and over 180 injuries, demonstrated his capacity to take on massive corporate defendants and navigate incredibly complex cases with widespread liability. This experience, honed against some of the largest corporations in the world, is directly applicable to the institutional power of national fraternities and major universities. Whether it’s a refinery or a university, the fight against negligence and corporate indifference requires the same tenacity.

4. Federal Court Authority & Dual-State Bar Admissions.

Hazing cases often transcend state lines, involving national organizations headquartered far from where the incident occurred.

Both Attorney Manginello and Attorney Peña are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, granting them federal court authority. This is critical for hazing cases that can involve federal civil rights violations or multi-state defendants.
Ralph Manginello is uniquely dual-state licensed in Texas AND New York. This dual admission provides a strategic advantage for national hazing litigation, giving us direct access to legal proceedings in a state known for being a hub for many national organizations. For Camden County families, this means we can pursue your case effectively, regardless of where a national fraternity’s headquarters might be located.

5. Data-Driven Hazing Intelligence System.

We don’t guess who is responsible; we know. Attorney911 maintains one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations in Texas. Our intelligence database tracks over 1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metropolitan areas, including house corporations, alumni chapters, and honor societies. We gather data like EINs, legal names, and addresses from IRS B-83 filings, and cross-reference with Cause IQ data.

For Camden County families, this means:

We can identify every entity behind the Greek letters: From the local chapter to the national headquarters and their associated housing corporations, we know precisely who to target.
We establish patterns: By tracking organizations like Pi Kappa Alpha (which has paid over $24 million in hazing death settlements) or Kappa Sigma ($12.6 million verdict), we demonstrate the foreseeability of hazing dangers, even for chapters that may exist near Camden County.
Example from our database: Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc (EIN 462267515 in Frisco, Texas) — this is the same entity behind the University of Houston chapter we are suing. We knew their corporate structure before filing, demonstrating our systematic approach.

This intelligence system allows us to dismantle the common defense tactic of claiming ignorance or separation between local and national entities.

6. “Se Habla Español” – Serving Our Diverse Community.

Georgia, and Camden County specifically, is a diverse state with a growing Hispanic population. We believe that language should never be a barrier to justice. Both Attorney Manginello and Attorney Peña are fully bilingual and speak fluent Spanish. Our firm offers comprehensive legal services in Spanish, ensuring that Hispanic families in Camden County and across the nation can communicate openly and comfortably about their legal concerns.

7. Compassion, Communication, and Client Focus.

We know this is an unimaginably difficult time. That’s why our approach is empathetic, warm, and client-focused. We hear testimonials like “You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such” and “This place feels like having a family over your case.” We prioritize consistent communication, never leaving you in the dark. Our team, from attorneys to our dedicated staff like Leonore and Amanda, are committed to treating Camden County families with respect and care.

8. Contingency Fee Basis – No Upfront Cost to You.

We understand that pursuing justice against powerful institutions can seem financially daunting. That’s why we take all hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means:

You pay $0 upfront.
We don’t get paid unless and until we win your case.
Our fees are a percentage of the settlement or verdict we secure for you.

This model removes the financial barrier, allowing any family in Camden County to access aggressive, top-tier legal representation without added stress.

9. Proven Track Record and Media Acclaim.

Our Google reviews boast a 4.9-star rating with over 250 reviews, reflecting a consistent pattern of client satisfaction and successful outcomes. Ralph Manginello has been recognized by local media for his assertive representation in challenging cases, and our current hazing lawsuit is generating significant local and national media coverage. We are not afraid of the spotlight if it means achieving justice for our clients.

10. We Come to You.

While our primary offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, hazing cases often require national reach. We are committed to traveling to Camden County, Georgia, for depositions, client meetings, or trials when necessary. Technology also allows us to conduct remote consultations, ensuring that geography is never a barrier to high-quality legal representation.

For families in Camden County, Georgia, who are navigating the devastating impact of hazing, choosing Attorney911 means choosing a firm that understands the complexities, possesses the firepower, and has the unwavering commitment to fight for your child’s justice.

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

If your child in Camden County, Georgia, has been a victim of hazing, the immediate aftermath can be a whirlwind of confusion, fear, and anger. Knowing what steps to take can feel impossible, but acting quickly and strategically is critical to protecting your child’s legal rights and building a strong case. We’ve compiled a clear, actionable guide for Camden County families, designed to empower you during this traumatic time.

Remember, the clock is ticking, and evidence can disappear. The time for action is now.

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Attention.

Your child’s physical and mental well-being is the absolute top priority.

Remove Your Child from the Situation: If they are still in a dangerous environment, get them out immediately.
Seek Medical Care Without Delay: Even if injuries seem minor, or your child is hesitant, get them professional medical attention right away. Adrenaline can mask pain, and serious internal injuries, like rhabdomyolysis or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
- Go to the ER: For any significant physical symptoms, pain, signs of distress, or if your child was forced to consume alcohol or other substances.
- Follow-Up with Doctors: Ensure all recommended follow-up appointments, diagnostic tests (like blood tests for kidney function, as in Leonel Bermudez’s case), and specialist referrals are completed.
- Document Everything Medical: Every visit, every diagnosis, every prescription, every therapy session is crucial for establishing the link between the hazing and the injuries.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence.

This is arguably the most critical step after ensuring safety. Hazing often occurs in secret, and perpetrators will try to cover their tracks.

Medical Records: Obtain copies of all medical records, hospital discharge papers, emergency room reports, doctor’s notes, lab results (like creatine kinase levels), and bills. These are foundational to proving damages.
Photos and Videos:
- Injuries: Photograph all physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, swelling) as soon as they appear, and continue to photograph them as they heal. Documenting the progression is vital.
- Hazing Environment: If safe to do so, discreetly photograph or video relevant locations—the fraternity house, basement, park, or any site where hazing occurred.
- Related Items: Images of any objects used during hazing, clothing, or paraphernalia can serve as powerful evidence.
Digital Communications: This is often a goldmine of evidence in hazing cases.
- Text Messages: Save all text messages (SMS and messaging apps like WhatsApp, GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs) related to the hazing. Do not delete anything. Screenshots are excellent, but also preserve the original conversations if possible.
- Social Media: Take screenshots of relevant posts, comments, or stories, even if they seem insignificant. Preserve any communications from fraternity/sorority members. However, do NOT post about the incident yourself on social media. Anything you post can and will be used against you by the defense.
- Emails: Save any emails related to the organization or hazing.
Witness Information: Collect names, phone numbers, and any other contact details for anyone who witnessed the hazing, other pledges who experienced it, or anyone who can corroborate your child’s account. Their testimony can be invaluable.
Organizational Documents: Keep any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or communications your child received from the organization.
Financial Records: Document any lost wages if your child missed work, lost tuition or fees if they had to withdraw from classes, or any other financial losses directly stemming from the hazing.
Academic Records: Preserve any records that show a decline in academic performance, withdrawals, or changes in enrollment due to the hazing trauma.

Step 3: Avoid Critical Mistakes.

The defense will scrutinize every action your child takes. Protect your case from being undermined.

DO NOT Delete Anything: Digital evidence is easily lost but crucial. Never delete messages, photos, or social media accounts.
DO NOT Talk to the Fraternity/Sorority or University Officials Alone: They are not on your side. Their primary goal is to protect the institution, not your child. Any statements your child makes could be twisted and used against them. Refer all inquiries to your attorney.
DO NOT Give Recorded Statements: Never agree to give a recorded statement to anyone (insurance adjusters, university officials) without legal counsel present.
DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, sorority, or university, as this could waive your child’s rights.
DO NOT Post on Social Media: Refrain from posting anything about the incident, your child’s injuries, their emotional state, or even general complaints about the university or fraternity. Maintain a completely dark profile regarding the incident.

Step 4: Contact Attorney911 Immediately for a Free Consultation.

Time is of the essence in hazing cases.

The Statute of Limitations: In Georgia, like Texas, there is a strict statute of limitations (typically two years for personal injury cases) for filing a lawsuit. Miss this deadline, and your right to seek justice is lost forever. Evidence also fades, memories dim, and perpetrators cover their tracks the longer you wait. Our client, Leonel Bermudez, was hospitalized in early November, and we filed our $10 million lawsuit within weeks – a testament to the urgency required.
Expert Guidance: An experienced hazing attorney can immediately send out preservation letters to all potential defendants, legally compelling them to retain all relevant evidence (digital, physical, video). We can also guide you through official reporting channels, such as filing a Title IX complaint without compromising your civil case.
We Come to You / Remote Consultations: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we proudly serve families in Camden County, Georgia, and nationwide. We offer video consultations, making it easy for you to connect with us from your home. For critical phases of your case, our attorneys are prepared to travel to Camden County for depositions, client meetings, and trials. Distance is not a barrier to justice when you have Attorney911 on your side.

Step 5: Consider Reporting the Incident.

Law Enforcement: Depending on the severity and local laws, reporting to local law enforcement (e.g., Camden County Sheriff’s Office or local police departments in Kingsland or St. Marys) may initiate a criminal investigation.
University Administration: While caution is advised when communicating directly with the university (as they protect their own interests), formally reporting the hazing to the Dean of Students or the Title IX office can trigger their internal investigation processes.

By taking these immediate, decisive steps, families in Camden County, Georgia, can begin the crucial process of seeking justice and accountability for the devastating impact of hazing on their children. You do not have to face this alone.

Are Personal Injury Lawyers Worth It?

In our experience, victims who choose to work with a personal injury lawyer consistently obtain more favorable settlements and stronger outcomes than those who attempt to navigate the legal system alone. This is especially true for complex, high-stakes cases like hazing litigation.

Benefits of Hiring a Hazing Litigation Lawyer:

Higher Settlements: Statistics show that represented accident victims, even after paying legal fees, typically walk away with significantly better settlements. Defendants and their insurance companies take cases far more seriously when victims are represented by reputable and aggressive attorneys.
Specialized Expertise: Hazing law is a niche, evolving field. Our attorneys possess deep knowledge of anti-hazing statutes (like the Max Gruver Act or Timothy J. Piazza Law), relevant tort laws, and federal regulations. We understand the specific nuances of institutional negligence, pattern evidence, and the complex interplay between local chapters, national organizations, and universities.
Insider Knowledge of Defense Tactics: With both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena being former insurance defense attorneys, we have an unparalleled understanding of how insurance companies and corporate defendants strategize, evaluate claims, and attempt to minimize payouts. We know their playbook, which gives our clients a distinct advantage.
Professional Negotiation Skills: Insurance adjusters and defense lawyers are trained negotiators whose goal is to save their employers money. You need equally skilled and aggressive negotiators on your side who will fight tirelessly for the maximum compensation your child deserves.
Identification of All Liable Parties: Hazing cases often involve a complex web of defendants—individuals, local chapters, national organizations, housing corporations, and universities. We meticulously investigate to identify every responsible party, maximizing the potential sources of recovery.
Evidence Preservation and Management: We immediately secure critical evidence that can quickly disappear, such as digital communications, social media posts, and surveillance footage. We know what evidence is needed to prove your case and how to obtain it.
Stress Reduction: Dealing with the trauma of hazing is enough. Our legal team handles every aspect of your claim, from communications with defendants and insurance companies to managing paperwork and legal deadlines, allowing you and your family to focus on healing.
Leveling the Playing Field: National fraternities and universities have vast resources, including in-house legal teams and seemingly endless budgets for defense. Hiring Attorney911 ensures you have equally formidable representation, leveling the playing field against powerful adversaries.
Holding Institutions Accountable: Beyond financial compensation, civil lawsuits are a powerful tool for driving systemic change. By aggressively pursuing justice, we force institutions to confront their negligence and implement reforms that can prevent future tragedies.

For families in Camden County, Georgia, choosing an experienced hazing litigation lawyer from Attorney911 means empowering yourselves with the knowledge, resources, and aggressive advocacy needed to secure justice and ensure that what happened to your child doesn’t happen to another.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline for Hazing Victims

If your family in Camden County, Georgia, has been shattered by hazing, you don’t have to carry this burden alone. We are Attorney911, and we are ready to become your unwavering advocates. We understand the pain, anger, and confusion you’re experiencing, and we are committed to turning that into aggressive action for justice.

Our attorneys are currently in the midst of a $10 MILLION hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t just a job for us; it’s a mission. We know how to build these complex cases, how to dismantle the defenses of powerful institutions, and how to hold every responsible party accountable. And we will bring that same relentless fight to Camden County families.

Camden County Families – Your Free, Confidential Consultation Awaits:

📞 Call Our Legal Emergency Hotline, 24/7:

1-888-ATTY-911

📧 Email Us Directly:

ralph@atty911.com

🌐 Visit Our Website:

attorney911.com

We work on a Contingency Fee Basis for hazing victims:

This means you pay $0 upfront for our services. We only get paid if, and when, we successfully secure compensation for you. This commitment removes any financial burden on your family, ensuring that access to justice is never out of reach.

We Serve Camden County Hazing Victims — and Victims Nationwide:

While our primary offices are strategically located in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, hazing is a national crisis. We are fully equipped to represent families in Camden County, Georgia, and across the country through:

Federal Court Authority: Our attorneys are admitted to the U.S. District Court, granting us the ability to pursue your case in federal jurisdiction, which is often necessary when dealing with national fraternities/sororities and multi-state defendants.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas AND New York, providing a strategic advantage for national litigation against organizations frequently headquartered in diverse legal environments.
Video Consultations: We offer convenient and confidential video consultations, allowing Camden County families to meet with our experienced attorneys from the comfort and privacy of their homes.
Travel Commitment: Though we utilize technology, we recognize the importance of personal presence. Our attorneys are prepared to travel to Camden County, Georgia, for depositions, crucial client meetings, and trial proceedings when necessary. Distance will not be a barrier to securing comprehensive justice for your child.

Do Not Delay – Time Is Critical:

The statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases means there is a limited window to file a lawsuit. Evidence can disappear, witness memories can fade, and perpetrators can attempt to cover their tracks. By contacting us immediately, you empower us to:

Issue preservation letters: Legally compelling all defendants to retain critical evidence.
Begin a swift, thorough investigation: Gathering all necessary medical records, digital communications, and witness testimonies.
Protect your child’s rights: Ensuring no statements are made that could jeopardize their case.

Leonel Bermudez’s family acted quickly, and so should you.

Whether your child attends a university near Camden County in Georgia, or anywhere else in America, if they have been subjected to the brutality of hazing, we are here to fight. Hazing is a blight on our educational system, and with your help, we can make a difference. As our attorney Lupe Pena said, “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 Attorney911 today. Let us fight for the justice your child deserves. Your legal emergency is our call to action.