If you’re reading this in Colquitt County, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college. They were supposed to discover a new community, build lifelong bonds, and embrace newfound independence. Instead, they were tortured. They were abused. They were hazed. And now, you’re searching for answers, for justice, and for help. You’re scared, you’re angry, and you deserve to know that help is available.

We want you to know: we are here to help families in Colquitt County fight back. We are Attorney911, and we are attorneys Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña. While our firm is based in Houston, Texas, our reach extends nationwide, including to families right here in Colquitt County, Georgia. We understand that hazing doesn’t stop at state lines, and neither does our commitment to aggressive, data-driven representation for victims. We don’t just talk about hazing; we’re actively fighting it in court right now. Our firm is currently litigating a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for severe hazing that hospitalized our client. We bring that same level of dedication and expertise to every family we represent, no matter where they are.

The Crisis of Hazing in America: It’s Not “Boys Being Boys”

Many parents in Colquitt County and across America might associate hazing with harmless pranks or mild inconveniences. Perhaps you’ve heard stories of pledges being asked to clean a fraternity house or perform silly tasks. We are here to tell you, as experts on hazing litigation, that this outdated image is dangerous and far from the terrifying reality. Hazing today is not about fun or tradition; it is systematic abuse, physical torture, psychological torment, and often criminal behavior.

The statistics are stark, and they should alarm every parent in Colquitt County who is considering sending their child off to college:

• Over half (55%) of students in Greek organizations experience hazing. This isn’t a rare occurrence; it’s an entrenched part of the culture.
• Nearly half (40%) of student athletes report being hazed. Hazing extends far beyond fraternities and sororities, infiltrating sports teams, marching bands, ROTC programs, and various other university clubs and organizations that students from Colquitt County might join.
• Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing-related death every single year in the United States. These are not isolated tragedies; they are a horrifying pattern of institutional failure and a stark warning to families everywhere.
• A shocking 95% of students who are hazed do NOT report it. Victims often suffer in silence due to shame, fear of social retaliation, loyalty to the organization, or the belief that reporting won’t make a difference. This creates a dangerous veil of secrecy that perpetuates the cycle of abuse.

Hazing is thriving in institutions across the country, from large state universities to smaller private colleges, and it could very well be happening at campuses where students from Colquitt County are currently enrolled or plan to attend. These are not isolated incidents by rogue individuals; they are a consequence of deep-seated organizational cultures, often enabled by a shocking lack of oversight from universities and national Greek life organizations.

When a student from Colquitt County goes to college, they are stepping into an environment where they are vulnerable to these hidden dangers. They are seeking community, but too often find themselves in situations where they are subjected to:

• Physical abuse that leaves them injured, humiliated, and sometimes struggling for their lives.
• Forced consumption of dangerous amounts of alcohol or bizarre, noxious concoctions, leading to alcohol poisoning and organ damage.
• Sleep deprivation that impairs their judgment and endangers their health.
• Psychological torment that leaves lasting scars and can lead to severe mental health crises, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation.
• Sexual abuse or humiliation that violates their dignity and shatters their sense of self.

This is the reality of hazing today. It’s not a secret handshake or an embarrassing stunt. It’s often violent, it’s dangerous, and it can be deadly. And every day, parents in Colquitt County send their children off to institutions that claim to prioritize their safety, only for those children to become victims of this insidious abuse.

This is why our work at Attorney911 is so critical. We believe that turning a blind eye to hazing is no longer an option. We are committed to exposing these dangers, holding every responsible party accountable, and fighting for the justice and compensation that victims and their families deserve. For families in Colquitt County, your fight is our fight. We are ready to stand with you.

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

Colquitt County Families: This is not theory. This is what hazing looks like. This is what we do about it.

We understand that seeing news headlines about hazing can feel distant, like something that only happens elsewhere. However, we want to share the story of Leonel Bermudez, a student in Houston just like those who might attend university near Colquitt County, Georgia. His story is a chilling reminder of the very real and present danger of hazing, and it is the focal point of the $10 million lawsuit our firm, Attorney911, is actively fighting right now.

This case is not just a filing; it’s a battle being waged in Harris County Civil District Court, and it embodies everything we stand for: aggressive representation, data-driven strategy, and a relentless pursuit of accountability for every entity responsible for hazing injuries and deaths. The details of Leonel’s ordeal were so egregious that they immediately caught the attention of major news outlets:

• ABC13 Houston: Reported on November 21-22, 2025, detailing “abuse and hazing [that] led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge.” Read more here.
• KHOU 11: Published on November 21, 2025, confirming a “$10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations.” See the coverage.
• Houston Chronicle: Provided detailed hazing activities on November 22, 2025. Find the story.
• Houston Public Media: On November 24, 2025, they highlighted that “waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.” View the report.

Even Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, one of the defendants, acknowledged their culpability by announcing on their website on November 21, 2025, that they had closed their Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston. See their statement.

The Damages Sought: $10 Million

This $10 million lawsuit, filed on November 21, 2025, in Harris County Civil District Court, names a comprehensive list of defendants we believe are responsible:

• Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (specifically their University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter)
• Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, the umbrella organization with 150+ chapters nationwide (including those near Colquitt County)
• Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation, which owns the properties where hazing occurs
• The University of Houston itself, which owned the fraternity house where much of the abuse took place
• The University of Houston Board of Regents, for institutional oversight failures
• The fraternity President, Pledgemaster, and other current and former individual members who directly participated in or facilitated the hazing. Crucially, even a former member and his spouse are named because hazing sessions occurred at their private residence.

The Story of Leonel Bermudez:

Leonel Bermudez was a “ghost rush”—a prospective member who hadn’t even officially enrolled at the University of Houston. He was planning to transfer for the upcoming Spring 2026 semester. The fact that this fraternity subjected someone who wasn’t even their student to such horrific abuse speaks volumes about their culture of recklessness.

On September 16, 2025, Leonel accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. What followed were weeks of systematic abuse, torture, and hazing that culminated in his hospitalization for severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He spent three nights and four days in the hospital fighting for his life.

As our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, told 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, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure.”

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, powerfully stated to ABC13 that our goal is not just about this one case: “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 Horrifying Details of the Hazing:

Leonel’s experience wasn’t a one-time event; it was a relentless campaign of physical and psychological torment:

• Waterboarding / Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” sprayed directly in his face while performing calisthenics. He was forced to run repeatedly under the threat of this barbarous act. The media itself, including Houston Public Media, characterized waterboarding as a “form of torture.” When done to enemy combatants, it’s considered a war crime; they did it to a promising college student.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. Then, in an act of sickening further punishment and disregard for his human dignity, he was forced to continue sprints while in physical distress and lie in vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: This included performing over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (running drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was forced to recite the fraternity creed while enduring this, all under threat of immediate expulsion. It continued until he was so exhausted he couldn’t stand without help. The Houston Chronicle also reported that pledges were struck with wooden paddles. The relentless exertion led to his muscles breaking down, his kidneys failing, and brown urine—a classic sign of severe rhabdomyolysis.
• Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather and sprayed with a hose. He had to carry a fanny pack containing “objects of a sexual nature” at all times. In another shocking incident, a different pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. Threats of physical punishment or expulsion were constant.
• Sleep Deprivation: He was forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, which, combined with the other abuses, led to severe exhaustion impacting his daily life.

The Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

Leonel’s diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis is a direct and severe consequence of the extreme physical hazing he endured. Rhabdomyolysis is the breakdown of muscle tissue, releasing a toxic protein called myoglobin into the blood. This can lead to acute kidney failure and, if untreated, death. Our client’s symptoms—passing brown urine, severe muscle pain, difficulty walking, and extremely high creatine kinase levels—all pointed to this life-threatening condition. He required intensive medical treatment for four days in the hospital. The ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage is a very real concern, and it is a medical condition our firm has successfully litigated before, showcasing Attorney Manginello’s specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases.

Institutional Responses and Their Implications:

Both the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National issued statements following the incident, which we believe reveal their awareness and attempts to mitigate liability. A University of Houston spokesperson told Houston Public Media that “The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards… any individual found responsible for hazing will face disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion and potential criminal charges.” While appearing concerned, this statement acknowledges the severity of the conduct and the potential for criminal liability, while deflecting from UH’s own institutional failures.

Pi Kappa Phi National’s statement on their website announced the closure of their Beta Nu Chapter, effective November 14, 2025—a full week before our lawsuit was filed. They admitted to “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards” and thanked the University of Houston for its “collaboration.” This indicates a coordinated effort to control the narrative and suggests their own internal assessment found severe wrongdoing. Perhaps most tellingly, their statement ended with, “we look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time.” This profound lack of remorse, even as our client was recovering from life-threatening injuries, underscores the need for aggressive legal action.

Why This Case Matters to Families in Colquitt County:

This is not a distant event. Students from Colquitt County attend universities across Georgia and nationwide, including many institutions where Pi Kappa Phi and other national fraternities have chapters. The same “traditions” that led to Leonel’s hospitalization could be occurring at campuses where your children are students.

1. “Tradition” is Torture: Leonel’s story shatters any illusion that hazing is harmless. It is brutal, systematic abuse.
2. Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where much of the abuse occurred. Universities near Colquitt County have the same power to stop hazing on their campuses and the same liability when they fail to do so.
3. National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi National closed the chapter quickly, demonstrating they knew about severe problems. Many other national organizations operate in Georgia, and they, too, bear responsibility for their chapters’ actions.
4. Victims Are Afraid: Leonel fears retribution for speaking out. This is a common and legitimate fear among hazing victims in Colquitt County and elsewhere. We prioritize our clients’ safety and privacy.
5. One Brave Victim Can Protect Others: Every case, every lawsuit, sends a resounding message. A victory for Leonel is a victory for every student in Colquitt County who might otherwise become a victim. As Lupe Peña said, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do.”
6. $10 Million Sends a Message: The demand for substantial damages is not arbitrary; it is a powerful statement that goes beyond compensation. It forces institutions to re-evaluate their practices and prioritize student safety over reputation.

We want every parent, every student, and every educational institution in Colquitt County to understand that what happened to Leonel Bermudez is not unique. It is a manifestation of a widespread problem that requires aggressive legal challenge. We are fighting this fight right now, and we are ready to bring that fire and expertise to your family’s hazing case, should you ever need us.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

For many in Colquitt County, the word “hazing” evokes images from old movies—perhaps a silly scavenger hunt or a night of forced camaraderie. We are here to tell you that the reality is far more sinister, a brutal landscape where “tradition” is a flimsy excuse for torture, physical abuse, psychological torment, and sometimes, death. What happened to Leonel Bermudez is not unique; it is a chilling encapsulation of what hazing looks like today.

It’s not “boys being boys.” It’s not “building brotherhood.” It’s assault. It’s battery. It’s reckless endangerment. And it’s happening at colleges and universities across the country, including where students from Colquitt County attend.

Let’s be clear about the types of activities we uncover and prosecute in hazing cases, drawing directly from our ongoing Bermudez case and other documented incidents:

1. Physical Abuse & Torture:

• Forced Exercise to Exhaustion: Far beyond a demanding workout, hazing rituals involve prolonged, extreme physical exertion designed to break down a student’s body and will. Leonel Bermudez was forced to do over “100 pushups, 500 squats,” along with “high-volume suicides, bear crawls, wheelbarrows,” and “repeated 100-yard crawls.” This continued until he “could not stand without help,” directly leading to his rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure.
• Beatings and Paddling: The Houston Chronicle reported that pledges in our current case were “struck with wooden paddles.” This is direct, intentional physical assault, carrying both civil and criminal implications. Such acts can cause severe bruising, internal injuries, and lasting trauma.
• Waterboarding / Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” sprayed directly in his face. This is pure torture, creating fear of drowning and violating fundamental human rights. It’s an act that the media itself highlighted as a “form of torture,” echoing its condemnation when used against enemy combatants.
• Exposure to Elements: This can include being forced outdoors for extended periods in extreme cold or heat, often while minimally clothed. Leonel was “forced to strip to underwear in cold weather” and sprayed with a hose. This creates risks of hypothermia, frostbite, or heatstroke.
• Other Brutality: This can range from branding, electric shocking, or any activity that inflicts physical pain or injury.

2. Forced Consumption:

• Binge Drinking to Near-Fatal Levels: This is perhaps the most common cause of hazing deaths. Students are forced to consume massive quantities of alcohol in short periods, as seen in the tragic deaths of Stone Foltz (Pi Kappa Alpha), Max Gruver (Phi Delta Theta), Timothy Piazza (Beta Theta Pi), and Andrew Coffey (Pi Kappa Phi)—all resulting in BACs many times the legal limit. Leonel Bermudez was forced to consume “large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting,” then made to continue physical activity while lying in his own vomit.
• Consumption of Noxious Substances: This can include eating spoiled food, non-food items, or substances designed to induce illness.
• Dehydration: Conversely, pledges may be denied water for extended periods, especially during extreme physical exertion.

3. Psychological Torture & Humiliation:

• Degradation Rituals: Leonel was forced to carry a “fanny pack that held objects of a sexual nature at all times”—a clear act of public humiliation designed to break down his sense of self.
• Isolation and Intimidation: Pledges are often isolated from outside contact and subjected to verbal abuse, threats, and intimidation. Leonel faced “threats of physical punishment and/or expulsion from the fraternity” for non-compliance, creating an environment of fear.
• Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often forced to stay awake for extended periods, attend late-night sessions, or perform tasks such as driving fraternity members during the “early morning hours,” as Leonel was. Sleep deprivation severely impairs judgment, increases suggestibility, and creates physical and mental vulnerability.
• Hog-Tying and Restraint: In Leonel’s case, another pledge was “hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.” These acts constitute false imprisonment and severe psychological trauma.
• Emotional Manipulation: Pledges are told that enduring this abuse is a sign of loyalty or a necessary step to “earn” their place, creating a perverse incentive structure.

4. Servitude and Control:

• Forced Labor: Pledges may be forced to clean fraternity houses, run errands for members, or act as personal servants.
• Strict Control over Daily Life: This includes enforced dress codes, mandatory study hours, weekly interviews, and constant monitoring. These seemingly minor controls contribute to the total erosion of a pledge’s autonomy and self-worth, making them more susceptible to severe hazing.

Common Medical and Psychological Consequences:

The severe nature of modern hazing leads to devastating consequences, from the immediate to the lifelong:

• Rhabdomyolysis & Kidney Failure: As seen in Leonel’s case, from extreme physical exertion.
• Alcohol Poisoning: Leading cause of death in hazing.
• Traumatic Brain Injury: From falls, beatings, or lack of proper medical care.
• Internal Organ Damage: From physical assault or forced consumption.
• Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From exposure to extreme temperatures.
• Cardiac Arrest: From extreme exertion or substance abuse.
• Sexual Trauma Injuries: From assault or forced sexual acts.
• Permanent Scarring/Disfigurement: From branding, burns, or severe physical injuries.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): From the psychological and physical trauma of abuse.
• Severe Anxiety and Depression: Often requiring long-term therapy and medication.
• Suicidal Ideation: The despair and hopelessness can drive victims to the brink.
• Substance Abuse: As a coping mechanism for trauma.
• Academic Failure: Due to mental health struggles, sleep deprivation, and lack of focus.

This is the reality we confront. This is why when families in Colquitt County reach out to us, we take their concerns with the utmost gravity. This isn’t just about a few bad apples; it’s about a culture that needs to be permanently dismantled, with accountability for all who participate and all institutions that allow it to fester. We bring this understanding, this data, and this fight to every case we accept.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Entity Accountable for Hazing in Colquitt County

When tragedy strikes due to hazing, it’s never just one person or one entity accountable. The insidious nature of hazing draws a web of responsibility that often includes the individual perpetrators, the local chapters of fraternities and sororities, the national organizations that charter them, and the universities that host them on their campuses. For families in Colquitt County seeking justice, understanding this multi-layered liability is crucial, and it is precisely where Attorney911’s expertise shines. There’s no “defendant matrix” or clinical breakdown here; only a clear explanation of how we help families in Colquitt County fight every responsible party.

In every hazing lawsuit, our goal is to identify and pursue every party whose negligence, willful blindness, or direct actions contributed to the harm. This is precisely what we are doing in the $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez, and it is the same comprehensive approach we will bring to your case, regardless of whether the incident occurred in Colquitt County or elsewhere.

1. Individual Perpetrators:
These are the students and members who directly planned, participated in, or stood by while hazing occurred. In our Bermudez case, we named the fraternity’s President, Pledgemaster, current members, and even former members and their spouses who hosted hazing activities at their private residence.

• Their Role: These individuals are often the direct actors in inflicting abuse, enforcing silence, and perpetuating the cycle of hazing.
• Why They’re Liable: They can be held personally responsible for assault, battery, false imprisonment, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and criminal hazing under state laws. As seen in the Stone Foltz case, a chapter president was held personally liable for a $6.5 million judgment. We will uncover who did what, who watched, and who failed to act.

2. Local Fraternity or Sorority Chapters:
The chapter itself is a structured entity that organized and executed the hazing. The Beta Nu chapter of Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston is a key defendant in our lawsuit.

• Their Role: They often create the “pledge manual” or “rules” that dictate the hazing activities. They control the locations, schedules, and demands placed on pledges.
• Why They’re Liable: Chapters can be found liable for negligent supervision of their members, creating a dangerous environment, and participating in civil conspiracy to commit hazing. Under Texas Education Code § 37.153, organizations can be penalized if they “condone or encourage hazing” or if their members commit it.

3. National Fraternity or Sorority Organizations:
These are the national bodies that charter, oversee, and claim to regulate their local chapters. Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters is a primary defendant in the Bermudez case. There are dozens of such national organizations with chapters in Georgia, including those whose chapters might be attended by students from Colquitt County.

• Their Role: National organizations provide charters, often own chapter houses through housing corporations, set anti-hazing policies, and collect substantial dues from members nationwide. They exert influence and oversight over their chapters.
• Why They’re Liable: They can be held liable for negligent supervision, failure to enforce their own anti-hazing policies, directly creating a dangerous culture, and for the foreseeable actions of their local chapters. The tragic death of Andrew Coffey at an FSU Pi Kappa Phi chapter in 2017, eight years prior to Leonel’s hospitalization across the same national fraternity, is powerful pattern evidence that the national organization knew of its deadly culture and failed to correct it. We track these histories diligently.

4. The University or College:
The educational institution itself often bears significant responsibility, particularly when the hazing occurs on campus property or involves recognized student organizations. The University of Houston and its Board of Regents are key defendants in our case. There are universities throughout Georgia, including those which students from Colquitt County may select, that bear this same responsibility.

• Their Role: Universities recognize Greek life organizations, provide campus housing or property, have disciplinary authority, and have a fundamental duty to protect the safety and well-being of their students. They often have Greek life advisors and administrators whose job it is to oversee these groups.
• Why They’re Liable: Universities can be held liable for premises liability (especially if they own the property where hazing happens, as UH did), negligent supervision of student organizations, failure to enforce their own anti-hazing rules, and deliberate indifference to known dangers. The fact that the University of Houston itself had a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017 (involving a lacerated spleen in the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity) demonstrates that they had ample notice that hazing was a problem on their campus and failed to prevent it from happening again.

5. Housing Corporations:
Many fraternities and sororities operate through separate housing corporations that own or manage the chapter houses. The Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation is a defendant in our current lawsuit.

• Their Role: They are often responsible for the physical property, including ensuring its safety and adherence to codes and regulations.
• Why They’re Liable: They can be held liable under premises liability laws if they knew or should have known that hazing was occurring on their property and failed to prevent it. They also have an oversight role in ensuring the safety of the house.

6. Insurance Carriers:
Behind every major organization and institution are insurance policies. These are almost always the true “deep pockets” that fund settlements and verdicts. As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña know exactly how these systems work.

• Their Role: Insurance companies provide liability coverage for individuals, chapters, national organizations, and universities.
• Why They’re Involved: We pursue every applicable insurance policy—the national organization’s liability insurance, the university’s institutional insurance, a local housing corporation’s property insurance, and even individual members’ homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.

For families in Colquitt County, we want to emphasize that our approach is thorough and relentless. We don’t stop at the obvious defendants. We uncover every link in the chain of responsibility, because only by holding all liable parties accountable can we secure true justice for the victim and send a powerful message that these devastating acts will not be tolerated.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof for Colquitt County Families

When a child from Colquitt County is subjected to hazing, the suffering is immeasurable. But through the legal system, we can translate that suffering, those medical bills, and that lost future into significant compensation. We want families in Colquitt County to understand that hazing cases are winnable, and they often result in multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements thanks to the relentless efforts of families and their legal teams. These cases send a powerful message that hazing carries a high price, and they fuel legislative changes that save lives.

Our current $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is not a shot in the dark; it is grounded in a strong legal framework and supported by a solid foundation of precedent cases that have secured substantial awards nationwide. We are prepared to bring these same strategies and determination to your family’s case in Colquitt County, Georgia.

Here are some of the landmark verdicts and settlements that prove accountability is possible, and why our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez is not just reasonable, but reflective of the true cost of hazing:

1. Stone Foltz — Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Total: $10.1 Million+

• What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, a pledge at Bowling Green State University, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha hazing event. He was found unresponsive the next morning and died from acute alcohol poisoning.
• The Outcome: The university settled for $2.9 million, and the national fraternity, along with individuals, settled for a combined $7.2 million. This amounted to over $10.1 million, the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history. More recently, in December 2024, a stunning $6.5 million judgment was also issued against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, demonstrating that individual perpetrators can face massive personal liability.
• Relevance for Colquitt County: This case directly validates our $10 million demand. It shows that both universities and national fraternities are held financially responsible for hazing deaths and injuries. It also shows that culpable individuals don’t escape responsibility.

2. Maxwell Gruver — Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017): Total: $6.1 Million Verdict

• What Happened: In September 2017, Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman at LSU, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a Phi Delta Theta hazing ritual known as “Bible Study,” where he was forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol for answering questions incorrectly. His BAC was 0.495—six times the legal limit.
• The Outcome: A jury awarded the Gruver family a $6.1 million verdict. In related criminal proceedings, a fraternity member was convicted of negligent homicide and sentenced to prison. The tragedy also spurred the passage of the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
• Relevance for Colquitt County: This case proves that juries are willing to award multi-million dollar verdicts to hazing victims. It also shows how these cases can lead to vital legislative change, protecting future students from Colquitt County wherever they attend college.

3. Timothy Piazza — Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017): Total: $110 Million+ (Estimated)

• What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge at Penn State, was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi “bid acceptance” event. His BAC reached 0.36. He fell down a flight of stairs multiple times, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911. Security cameras captured the horrific events.
• The Outcome: Although the precise amount remains confidential, the settlements are estimated to exceed $110 million. In the criminal arena, 18 fraternity members faced charges, with convictions for involuntary manslaughter and hazing. The “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law” was subsequently enacted in Pennsylvania.
• Relevance for Colquitt County: When evidence is strong and the conduct is egregious (as it is in Leonel Bermudez’s waterboarding case), the financial repercussions can be astronomical. This case is a testament to the fact that courts will hold institutions and individuals to account for extreme negligence and brutality.

4. Andrew Coffey — Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Settlement (Confidential)

• What Happened: On November 3, 2017, Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” hazing event at FSU.
• The Outcome: Nine fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the chapter was permanently closed. A civil settlement was reached, though the amount remains confidential.
• Relevance for Colquitt County: This case is a smoking gun for the Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters. It means they had direct knowledge of a deadly hazing incident within their organization eight years before Leonel Bermudez was waterboarded and hospitalized at their UH chapter. The national organization cannot claim ignorance; they knew, yet they failed to prevent Leonel’s trauma. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and compounds their liability.

5. Adam Oakes — Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021): Total: $4 Million+ Settlement

• What Happened: In February 2021, Adam Oakes, a freshman pledge at VCU, died from egregious alcohol consumption during a Delta Chi hazing event.
• The Outcome: The family settled for over $4 million, and criminal charges were brought against several fraternity members. The family also championed “Adam’s Law” in Virginia to strengthen anti-hazing legislation.
• Relevance for Colquitt County: This recent settlement (October 2024) reinforces the consistent multi-million dollar outcomes in hazing cases, even in regions far from our primary Texas focus.

6. UT Austin Sigma Chi (November 2025): Pending Lawsuit

• What Happened: Tragically, around the same time our Bermudez lawsuit was filed, a wrongful death lawsuit was filed regarding an 18-year-old freshman at the University of Texas at Austin whose death by suicide was linked to “horrific abuse” during Sigma Chi hazing.
• Relevance for Colquitt County: This demonstrates that the hazing crisis is ongoing in Texas, across different universities and fraternities, echoing the same patterns seen in the Bermudez case.

What These Precedents Mean for Colquitt County Families:

• Your Case Can Win Millions: These examples demonstrate that courts and juries across the country are willing to award substantial damages, ranging from millions to over one hundred million, to hold institutions accountable for hazing.
• Accountability for All: Universities, national organizations, local chapters, and individual perpetrators have all been compelled to pay for their roles in hazing tragedies.
• It Drives Change: Each of these high-profile cases has not only brought justice to victims but has also led to stricter anti-hazing laws and increased awareness, ultimately saving lives.
• Our Aggressive Demand is Justified: The $10 million we seek for Leonel Bermudez is not an inflated figure; it aligns with the serious injuries he sustained (rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure), the egregious nature of the hazing (waterboarding, physical assault), and the proven pattern of negligence by both the fraternity national and the university.

For any family in Colquitt County whose child has been injured or killed by hazing, these cases are not just legal summaries; they are a beacon of hope. They show that fighting back is not only necessary but can lead to powerful, transformative results. We stand ready to bring our expertise and unwavering commitment to securing similar justice for you.

Texas Law Protects You: A Clear Framework for Hazing Victims in Colquitt County

For families in Colquitt County, understanding the legal landscape around hazing can feel overwhelming. However, we want to simplify it: the law is on your side. While our firm is based in Texas, where many landmark hazing cases have been fought, the fundamental principles of anti-hazing laws and civil liability are often consistent across states. More importantly, our federal court authority means we can pursue justice for hazing victims anywhere, including Colquitt County, Georgia. This isn’t abstract legal jargon; it’s a powerful shield for victims.

Here, we will explain the bedrock of hazing law, particularly focusing on the robust framework in Texas, and how it directly empowers victims and their families in Colquitt County to seek justice.

The Foundation: Texas Hazing Laws (Education Code § 37.151-37.157)

Texas has some of the strongest anti-hazing laws in the country, and their definitions and penalties serve as a powerful model. These laws make it clear that hazing is not just a campus policy violation; it’s a crime with severe consequences.

1. What is Hazing? The Definition of Abuse (§ 37.151):
Texas law defines hazing broadly as any “intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in an organization if the act:”

The statute then explicitly lists many of the horrific acts we described earlier:

• Physical Brutality: “whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity.”
  • Colquitt County Connection: Leonel Bermudez’s case directly involved “being struck with wooden paddles,” clearly falling under “striking” and “beating.”
• Unreasonable Risk of Harm to Health/Safety: This includes “sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other similar activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.”
  • Colquitt County Connection: Leonel’s “500 squats, 100+ pushups,” “bear crawls,” “suicides,” “repeated 100-yard crawls,” coupled with being “stripped to underwear in cold weather” and “sprayed with a hose,” leading to rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, unequivocally meet this definition.
• Forced Consumption: “involves consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or other substance… that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.”
  • Colquitt County Connection: Leonel was “forced to eat large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting,” a textbook example of this hazing. The forced binge drinking cases that lead to deaths like Andrew Coffey’s (Pi Kappa Phi), Stone Foltz’s (Pi Kappa Alpha), and Max Gruver’s (Phi Delta Theta) also fall under this.
• Coercion to Consume Drugs/Alcohol: Explicitly covers forcing a student to consume drugs or alcohol to the point of intoxication.
  • Colquitt County Connection: This addresses the rampant problem of forced binge drinking, a central factor in many hazing deaths.

2. Criminal Penalties: Hazing is a Crime (§ 37.152):
Texas law mandates serious criminal penalties for hazing, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies:

• Class B Misdemeanor: For engaging in hazing, soliciting, encouraging, or aiding it, or for having firsthand knowledge and failing to report it.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes “serious bodily injury” (like Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure), penalties can include up to 1 year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
• State Jail Felony: If hazing causes “death,” individuals can face 180 days to 2 years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.
  • Colquitt County Connection: When universities near Colquitt County fail to act, they are essentially enabling criminal behavior that could lead to these severe penalties. The University of Houston spokesperson herself mentioned “potential criminal charges” in relation to Leonel’s case.

3. Organizational Liability: Holding the Groups Accountable (§ 37.153):
The law states that a fraternity or sorority “commits an offense if the organization condones or encourages hazing or if an officer or any combination of members, pledges, or alumni… commits or assists in the commission of hazing.”

• Penalties: Can include fines up to $10,000, denial of operating privileges on campus, and forfeiture of property.
  • Colquitt County Connection: This means that the local chapter in Colquitt County, and critically, the national organization, can be held directly liable for the dangerous culture they foster.

4. The Critical Rule: CONSENT IS NOT A DEFENSE (§ 37.154):
This is perhaps the most powerful and often misunderstood aspect of anti-hazing law:

“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.”

• Colquitt County Connection: This legal provision utterly destroys the common defense used by fraternities and universities: “He agreed to it,” or “He could have just left.” The law recognizes that true consent is impossible in a coercive environment fueled by peer pressure, fear of exclusion, and power imbalances. Students from Colquitt County who are hazed are not “volunteers” for abuse.

5. University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155):
Chief administrative officers of institutions are legally required to report hazing incidents to the state’s higher education coordinating board within 30 days. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor.

• Colquitt County Connection: This creates a paper trail and holds university administrators accountable for transparency, or lack thereof.

Beyond Criminal Charges: Civil Liability for Hazing Victims in Colquitt County

Even if criminal charges are not pursued, civil lawsuits provide a powerful avenue for victims and families in Colquitt County to recover damages and force institutional change. Our firm utilizes multiple civil liability theories, which apply broadly across all states, including Georgia:

• Negligence: This is the most common claim. It argues that a party (university, national fraternity, individuals) had a duty of care to protect the student, breached that duty by allowing or participating in hazing, and that breach directly caused the student’s injuries and damages.
• Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (as in Leonel’s case, where UH owned the frat house) or a housing corporation, they can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment.
• Negligent Supervision: This applies when an institution or organization fails to adequately supervise its members or chapters, leading to harm. This is a critical claim against national fraternities and universities.
• Assault and Battery: These intentional torts directly apply to physical acts of hazing like beatings, paddling, and waterboarding, allowing individual perpetrators to be sued personally.
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): This claim addresses severe psychological harm caused by “outrageous and extreme” conduct, a common outcome of psychological hazing which can lead to PTSD and other mental health crises for students from Colquitt County.
• Wrongful Death: If hazing leads to a student’s death, families can pursue substantial compensation for the loss of their loved one, including emotional damages, lost future earnings, and punitive damages.

Why This Legal Framework Matters for Colquitt County Families:

This robust legal framework serves a dual purpose:

1. Justice for Victims: It provides legal avenues to secure substantial compensation for medical bills, lost earnings, pain, suffering, and emotional trauma.
2. Deterrence and Change: By holding individuals and institutions criminally and civilly liable, these laws aim to deter future hazing and force a systemic change in culture.

For whatever university your child from Colquitt County attends, whether in Georgia or across the country, know that aggressive legal teams like Attorney911 have a powerful legal arsenal to fight for justice. We understand these laws inside and out, and we apply them relentlessly to secure accountability for every hazing victim we represent.

Why Attorney911: Your Trusted Advocates for Hazing Victims in Colquitt County

When your family in Colquitt County faces the nightmare of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the intricate legal landscape, the devastating human cost, and the deceptive tactics of powerful institutions. At Attorney911, we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™, and we step into the breach when your child is in crisis. We are Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, and we offer a unique blend of experience, insight, and unwavering commitment that makes us the obvious choice for families in Colquitt County and nationwide.

We know that families in Colquitt County have choices, and we understand that you’re looking for the best possible representation. Here’s why Attorney911 is uniquely positioned to fight for your hazing victim:

1. Aggressive, Active Hazing Litigation Experts:

• We’re in the Fight Right Now: This isn’t theoretical for us. We are actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi National (the same fraternity that had a death in 2017) and the University of Houston for horrific waterboarding, physical abuse, and forced consumption that hospitalized our client with kidney failure. This is our daily battle, and we bring that real-world, current experience directly to your case in Colquitt County.
• Expertise in Hazing Injuries: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has specific expertise in cases involving rhabdomyolysis—the severe muscle breakdown suffered by our client Leonel Bermudez. This deep medical-legal knowledge ensures we fully understand and can effectively present the devastating physical consequences of hazing.

2. Insider Knowledge of the “Other Side”: Former Insurance Defense Attorneys:

• Lupe Peña’s Edge: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable insider intelligence. Before joining Attorney911, he was an associate attorney at Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm. He spent years defending insurance companies and corporations in complex litigation, including products liability, personal injury defense, and commercial disputes. He learned their playbook from the inside: how they value claims, how they strategize defenses, and how they try to minimize or deny payouts. Now, he uses that exact knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for our clients.
• Ralph Manginello’s Background: Ralph also began his career working on the defense side for insurance companies. This combined “counter-intelligence” gives us an unparalleled advantage. When an insurance company for a university or national fraternity tries to lowball a family in Colquitt County, we know exactly what they’re doing and why. We anticipate their moves, and we aggressively counter them.

3. Battle-Tested Litigation Experience Against Massive Defendants:

• 25+ Years of Courtroom Experience (Ralph Manginello): With over two decades in the courtroom, Ralph is a seasoned trial attorney.
• Multi-Billion Dollar Mass Tort Experience: Ralph was directly involved in the BP Texas City Explosion litigation, a multi-billion dollar mass tort case that involved 15 deaths and 180+ injuries against a global corporate giant. This demonstrates his capacity to successfully take on and win against the most massive, well-resourced institutional defendants imaginable—a critical skill when facing national fraternities or large universities.
• Federal Court Authority: Both Ralph and Lupe are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court admission is crucial because national hazing cases often involve federal questions and can be pursued in federal court, providing strategic advantages and often faster timelines. We can pursue your hazing case in Colquitt County at the federal level if advantageous.

4. Strategic Dual-State Bar Admissions for National Hazing Cases:

• Texas AND New York Licenses: Ralph Manginello is licensed to practice law in both Texas and New York. This is a strategic advantage when dealing with national fraternities and sororities, many of which are headquartered, incorporated, or have significant operations in key states like New York. It allows us to pursue these powerful national organizations with greater flexibility and leverage, regardless of where the specific hazing incident in Colquitt County occurred.

5. Compassionate, Client-Centered Approach, No Matter the Location:

• “They Treat You Like Family”: Our Google reviews (4.9 Stars, 250+ reviews) consistently highlight a core theme: “You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” We understand the trauma families in Colquitt County experience, and we treat every client with empathy, respect, and tireless advocacy.
• Exceptional Communication: Clients praise our “consistent communication” and responsiveness. We ensure you are informed at every step of your case, providing clear answers and direct access to your legal team.
• Dedicated to Maximum Compensation: Our testimonials show our commitment to fighting for maximum settlement, never accepting a lowball offer. “She had received an offer but she told me to give her one more week because she knew she could get a better offer and on today I spoke with her and I was overwhelmed by the offer.” — Tracey White.

6. Accessible and Flexible for Colquitt County Families:

• Contingency Fees: $0 Upfront: We understand that dealing with the costs of legal action on top of medical bills and emotional distress is daunting. We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay absolutely nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless and until you get paid. This eliminates financial barriers for families in Colquitt County. Learn how contingency fees work here.
• Nationwide Reach & Travel Commitment: While our primary offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, hazing cases demand national reach. We offer video consultations for families in Colquitt County, and our attorneys are prepared to travel to Colquitt County for depositions, client meetings, and trials as needed. Distance will never be a barrier to justice.
• Se Habla Español: We have bilingual staff fluent in Spanish, ensuring that Hispanic families in Colquitt County can communicate comfortably and confidently with their legal team, without language barriers hindering their pursuit of justice.

7. Proven Track Record in Complex and High-Stakes Cases:

• From securing multi-million dollar settlements in car accidents to achieving dismissals in complex criminal cases, our firm consistently delivers results. This proven ability to win, combined with our deep expertise in confronting powerful institutions, is exactly what families in Colquitt County need when facing a hazing crisis.

We don’t just talk about fighting hazing; we’re in the trenches every day. We possess the legal firepower, the insider knowledge, and the unwavering commitment to fight for your child’s rights. For families in Colquitt County, Attorney911 is not just an option; we are your dedicated partners in seeking justice and ensuring accountability.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Colquitt County Families After Hazing

If your child in Colquitt County has been the victim of hazing, the moments, days, and weeks following the incident are critical. You are likely reeling from shock, anger, and fear. However, taking decisive action now can significantly impact the strength and success of any future legal claim. Here is clear, actionable guidance that you, as a worried parent in Colquitt County, can follow at 2 AM or any time, to protect your child’s rights and begin the path to justice.

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Care.

• Remove Your Child From Danger: Ensure your child is physically removed from the hazing environment and is in a safe place.
• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor or hidden, it’s crucial to see a doctor or go to the emergency room immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some serious injuries, like rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure (as in Leonel Bermudez’s case), may have delayed symptoms or be internal.
  • Document Everything: Make sure medical professionals record all injuries, symptoms (e.g., muscle pain, weakness, dark urine), and your account of how they occurred. Explain explicitly that the injuries are hazing-related.
  • Follow All Medical Advice: Attend all follow-up appointments, physical therapy sessions, and specialist referrals. Insurance companies will argue that delayed treatment or non-compliance means the injuries weren’t serious. Learn why seeing a doctor right after an accident is critical.
• Mental Health Support: Hazing inflicts deep psychological wounds. Seek professional counseling or therapy for your child. Documentation of PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other emotional distress is crucial for assessing non-economic damages.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence (Immediately and Thoroughly).
Hazing organizations and universities will work to minimize or obscure evidence. You must act quickly to secure it.

• Texts, Messages, and Social Media: This is often the most damning evidence. Do NOT delete anything. Instead, collect and preserve:
  • Screenshots: Take screenshots of all relevant text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat conversations, Instagram direct messages, TikToks, or any other social media posts related to the hazing, the fraternity/sorority, or other members. Include dates and times.
  • Photos/Videos: Save any photos or videos exchanged.
  • Digital Copies: If possible, download electronic copies of chat histories.
  • WARNING: Do NOT delete anything from your child’s phone, even if it seems irrelevant. Delete nothing! Watch our video on using your phone to document evidence.
• Photographs of Injuries: Take clear, well-lit photos of all physical injuries as soon as they appear, and continue to photograph them as they heal. This documents the progression of injury.
• Physical Evidence: If relevant, preserve any clothing, objects, or items that were part of the hazing.
• Documents: Keep any “pledge manuals,” schedules, rules, or communications received from the organization.
• Academic and Financial Records: Collect medical bills, receipts for expenses, records of missed classes or academic impact, and documentation of any lost wages or internship opportunities.
• Witness Information: Gather names, phone numbers, and contact information for any student who witnessed the hazing, other pledges who experienced it, or anyone who can corroborate your child’s story. Encourage them to also preserve any evidence they have.

Step 3: Do NOT Communicate with the Perpetrators or Institutions Without Legal Counsel.
Any statement you or your child makes can be used against them.

• No Contact with Fraternity/Sorority: Do not talk to chapter leaders, members, or alumni. They will try to get your child to recant, minimize the incident, or sign away their rights.
• Avoid University Officials Alone: While you may need to report the hazing to the university (and in Georgia, like Texas, there are laws requiring universities to investigate), DO NOT provide detailed statements, sign any documents, or participate in disciplinary hearings without legal counsel present. University administrators’ primary goal is to protect the institution, not your child.
• Absolutely No Social Media Posts: Do NOT post about the hazing incident or your child’s injuries on social media. The defense will comb through social media to find anything that can undermine your case, even innocent posts showing your child smiling or out with friends. Learn about client mistakes that can ruin your injury case.
• Never Give Recorded Statements: You are not obligated to give a recorded statement to any insurance company, university official, or fraternity representative. Politely decline and state that you will only communicate through your attorney. Watch our video on why you should never talk to an insurance company.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Hazing Litigation Attorney Immediately.
This is not a step you can afford to delay.

• Urgency is Key: There are strict deadlines (statutes of limitations) for filing lawsuits. In Georgia, like Texas, the general statute of limitations for personal injury is two years from the date of injury. Waiting too long means you could forever lose your right to seek justice. Evidence disappears, and memories fade. Understand the statute of limitations.
• Free, Confidential Consultation: Most reputable attorneys, including ours, offer free initial consultations for hazing cases. This allows you to understand your legal options without any financial commitment.
• Level the Playing Field: Universities and national fraternities have powerful legal teams. You need an equally aggressive and experienced team on your side to fight for your child.

We understand that pursuing legal action might seem daunting, especially from Colquitt County. However, our firm is built to handle these complex cases nationwide. We are here to guide you through every step, protect your child’s interests, and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. You don’t have to face this alone.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline in Colquitt County

To the families in Colquitt County, Georgia, who are navigating the terrifying aftermath of a hazing incident: you are not alone, and you do not have to endure this in silence. Your child’s pain, their trauma, and your family’s anguish demand justice. We are Attorney911, and we are ready to answer your call.

We are actively fighting hazing right now, pursuing a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for the horrific abuse suffered by our client. That same aggressive, experienced, and compassionate representation is available to families in Colquitt County.

Colquitt County Families: Don’t Wait. Call Us Now.

The time to act is now. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and legal deadlines (statutes of limitations) are strict. Every day that passes is a day that the responsible parties are not being held accountable.

LEGAL EMERGENCY HOTLINE FOR COLQUITT COUNTY HAZING VICTIMS:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

We are available 24/7 for families in Colquitt County dealing with hazing emergencies. When you call, you won’t get an answering service; you’ll connect with a team ready to listen and provide immediate guidance.

Email Us Directly:
ralph@atty911.com

Visit Our Website:
attorney911.com

Our Promise to Colquitt County Families:

• Free, Confidential Consultation: Your initial consultation with us is completely free. There is no obligation, and everything you share is kept in strict confidence. This is your opportunity to understand your legal rights and options without any financial burden.
• Contingency Fees: $0 Upfront: We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you will not pay us a single dollar out of your pocket unless and until we win your case. Our fees are paid only from the compensation we secure for you. This ensures that expert legal representation is accessible to every family in Colquitt County, regardless of their financial situation. Understand how contingency fees work here.
• We Come to You: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, distance is not a barrier to justice. We regularly facilitate video consultations for families in Colquitt County and are prepared to travel to Georgia for depositions, client meetings, and legal proceedings as your case demands.
• Se Habla Español: Our bilingual staff is fluent in Spanish, ensuring that Spanish-speaking families in Colquitt County receive clear, comfortable, and comprehensive legal support without language barriers.

We Serve Hazing Victims Nationwide, Including Colquitt County

Hazing is a national crisis that affects students from all walks of life, regardless of where they attend college. Whether your child was hazed at a university in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, or anywhere else in the United States, Attorney911 has the experience and authority to represent you:

• Federal Court Authority: Our attorneys are admitted to practice in U.S. District Courts, enabling us to pursue cases in federal jurisdiction nationwide.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York, providing broader legal reach for cases involving national organizations often structured across multiple states.
• Expertise Across All Hazing Scenarios: We represent victims of hazing in:
  • Fraternities and sororities at universities near Colquitt County
  • Sports teams
  • Marching bands
  • ROTC programs
  • Clubs and student organizations
  • Military academies
  • Any group that uses abuse, coercion, or ritualistic humiliation as a form of “initiation.”

To the parents in Colquitt County searching for help at any hour, we want you to envision this: A university campus, perhaps in Georgia, where your child went to build their future. Instead, they encountered brutality. You are scared. You are angry. Your instincts are telling you to fight back. Listen to those instincts. Do not allow your child’s pain to be ignored. Do not let these institutions dismiss what happened.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Let us be your first responders in this legal emergency. Let us put our expertise, our insider knowledge, and our unwavering commitment to justice to work for your family from Colquitt County. Together, we can hold the responsible parties accountable and send a powerful message that hazing will not be tolerated. Enough is enough.