If you’re reading this in Effingham County, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college, build leadership skills, and prepare for a successful future. Instead, they were tortured, humiliated, and injured, all in the name of “brotherhood” or “sisterhood.” We understand what you’re going through – the fear, the anger, the confusion, and the desperate need for answers and justice. We’re here to help families in Effingham County fight back against the pervasive and dangerous culture of hazing that continues to plague our schools and universities.

Hazing isn’t a harmless rite of passage; it’s abuse, it’s assault, and in many cases, it’s criminal. It’s a betrayal of trust by institutions, organizations, and individuals who are supposed to foster growth and safety. We are Attorney 911, and we are actively fighting this battle right now in the state of Texas, with a client who experienced firsthand the brutal realities of modern hazing. The same aggressive, data-driven approach we bring to our Houston cases, we are ready to bring to any family in Effingham County whose child has been harmed by hazing.

The Landmark Case that Sounds a Warning to Effingham County Families: Our $10 Million Fight Against Pi Kappa Phi & University of Houston

Every family in Effingham County with a child heading off to college, or already immersed in campus life, needs to hear the story of Leonel Bermudez. This isn’t a hypothetical example or a case from a distant past. This is a current, active lawsuit, filed in November 2025, right here in Texas. It represents everything we stand for at Attorney 911: aggressive representation of hazing victims, a data-driven litigation strategy, and relentless pursuit of accountability for every entity responsible for hazing injuries.

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

The harrowing details of hazing inflicted upon students like Leonel Bermudez are a stark warning to all families in Effingham County. While this case unfolded in Houston, the same dangerous hazing practices occur at universities across the nation, including institutions near Effingham County where your children might attend. The same national fraternities and sororities operate at campuses with connections to Effingham County, and the same negligence exists at institutions charged with protecting students. We are prepared to bring the same level of aggression and expertise to Effingham County families that we are demonstrating in this landmark Texas case.

The lawsuit seeks $10 million in damages from multiple entities involved in the hazing of Leonel Bermudez. We filed this case in Harris County Civil District Court on November 21, 2025, naming numerous defendants, including:

• Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter): The local chapter that directly organized and conducted the hazing.
• Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters: The national organization that failed to oversee its local chapter despite a documented history of hazing incidents nationwide.
• Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation: The entity tied to the property where much of the abuse occurred.
• University of Houston: The institution that owned the fraternity house and allegedly failed in its duty to protect students.
• UH Board of Regents: The governing body with ultimate oversight of the university.
• Individual Fraternity Members: Including the chapter president, pledgemaster, other current members who participated, former members who hosted hazing at their residence, and even the spouse of a former member who permitted the hazing activities in their home.

From Our Attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, to the Media:

Ralph Manginello spoke to ABC13 about the severity of Leonel’s injuries and his desperate struggle after the grueling hazing session: “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 Pena emphasized the firm’s purpose in taking on such a challenging 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.” This sentiment resonates deeply with our commitment to Effingham County families – to not only seek justice for victims but to prevent future tragedies.

The Hazing Timeline: Weeks of Abuse Leading to Hospitalization

Leonel Bermudez, a “ghost rush” who was planning to transfer to the University of Houston for the spring semester, accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi on September 16, 2025. What followed was a systematic campaign of abuse, torture, and hazing that eventually landed him in the hospital for three nights and four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

• September 16, 2025: Leonel accepts a bid to Pi Kappa Phi. The hazing begins immediately.
• Throughout the pledge period: Leonel was subjected to an enforced dress code, required to complete numerous study hours, and conduct weekly interviews. He was forced to carry a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature. Threats of physical punishment or expulsion for non-compliance were constant. He was also made to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, leading to severe exhaustion.
• October 13, 2025: In a particularly chilling incident, another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour while fraternity members prepared for a meeting. This demonstrates the pervasive and extreme nature of the hazing culture.
• October 15, 2025: Critically, another pledge lost consciousness and collapsed during a forced workout. Other pledges had to elevate his legs until he revived, yet the hazing continued. This should have been a clear warning, but it was ignored.
• November 3, 2025: The incident that led to Leonel’s hospitalization. Punished for missing an event, he was forced to endure over 100 pushups, 500 squats, and other extreme exercises, including “high-volume suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was made to recite the fraternity creed while exercising under threat of immediate expulsion. He became so exhausted he could not stand without help.
• November 4-5, 2025: Leonel’s condition worsened, marked by severe muscle soreness and an inability to move freely.
• November 6, 2025: Alarmed by his deteriorating state and the alarming symptom of passing brown urine (a classic sign of muscle breakdown), Leonel’s mother rushed him to the hospital. He was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
• November 6-10, 2025: Leonel remained hospitalized for three nights and four days, receiving intensive medical treatment to combat the life-threatening conditions caused by the hazing.
• November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National officially closed its Beta Nu Chapter, an action taken just days before our lawsuit was filed, indicating their awareness of the severity of the situation.
• November 21, 2025: Our $10 million lawsuit was filed, quickly drawing media attention from ABC13, KHOU 11, and other news outlets.

The Hazing Activities Exposed: Torture, Not Tradition

The details of Leonel’s hazing are not merely “pranks” or “initiation rituals.” They represent systematic torture and psychological abuse that has no place in any educational institution, here in Effingham County or anywhere else.

• Waterboarding / Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose.” Pledges were sprayed directly in the face with a hose while doing calisthenics and forced to run repeatedly under the threat of being waterboarded again. This is a technique condemned as torture when applied to enemy combatants; it should outrage any parent in Effingham County that it was inflicted upon their children.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Pledges were forced to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited. Then, they were compelled to continue running sprints even while in clear physical distress and were made to lie in vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: This included demands for over 100 pushups and 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and “save-you-brother” drills. Pledges endured two-mile warmups and repeated 100-yard crawls. Leonel was forced to recite the fraternity creed while performing these exercises, with threats of expulsion if he stopped. The lawsuit also details pledges being struck with wooden paddles.
• Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Beyond physical abuse, Leonel faced profound psychological torment. This included being forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather, carry a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature, and witnessing other pledges endure heinous acts, such as one being hog-tied with an object in his mouth.
• Sleep Deprivation & Exhaustion: Forced late-night and early-morning driving for fraternity members contributed to severe exhaustion, affecting daily life and physical resilience.

The Medical Nightmare: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

The severe physical hazing led to a life-threatening medical condition: rhabdomyolysis. This occurs when damaged muscle tissue releases proteins into the bloodstream that can overwhelm and destroy the kidneys.

• Brown Urine: A classic and alarming symptom, indicating the presence of myoglobin (from muscle breakdown) in the urine.
• High Creatine Kinase Levels: Blood tests revealed dangerously elevated creatine kinase levels, confirming extensive muscle damage.
• Acute Kidney Failure: The most severe complication, where the kidneys cease to function properly.
• Hospitalization: Leonel required inpatient care for four days, battling organ failure.
• Ongoing Risk: He still faces the risk of permanent kidney damage.

This is the same medical condition that Attorney 911 has successfully litigated before, showcasing Ralph Manginello’s specific expertise in these complex hazing cases. Effingham County families should understand that these are not minor injuries; they are potentially life-altering or even fatal.

Institutional Responses: A Pattern of Minimization and Delay

The responses from both the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters following Bermudez’s hospitalization reveal a pattern of damage control, not genuine accountability.

• University of Houston’s Statement: While acknowledging the “deeply disturbing” nature of the events and announcing an investigation “in coordination with law enforcement,” the university’s statement also reveals its initial focus on disciplinary action and “potential criminal charges.” This implies they believe severe wrongdoing occurred but emphasizes their internal processes.
• Pi Kappa Phi National’s Statement: Published on their own website just days before our lawsuit, the national fraternity announced the closure of the Beta Nu Chapter “following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” Crucially, they stated, “We thank the University of Houston for its collaboration and leadership. Pi Kappa Phi… look[s] forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time…” This demonstrates:
  • Consciousness of Guilt: They closed the chapter seven days before our lawsuit was filed, a clear attempt to get ahead of legal action.
  • Lack of Remorse: Their focus immediately shifted to a future return, rather than expressing genuine concern for the hospitalized student.
  • Coordination with UH: The “collaboration” phrase suggests a joint strategy to mitigate fallout before the lawsuit became public.
  • Pattern of Behavior: Pi Kappa Phi has over 150 chapters nationwide. KHOU 11 reported allegations that the national organization failed to enforce anti-hazing rules “despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis,'” and even more damning, Andrew Coffey died in a Pi Kappa Phi hazing incident at Florida State University in 2017. The national organization had eight years since Coffey’s death to prevent another tragedy. They failed Leonel.

Why This Case Matters to Effingham County Families

The Bermudez case is a crucial wakeup call for parents, students, and institutions in Effingham County:

1. “Tradition” is Torture: These are not harmless rites; they are systemic abuse. The same hazing happens at universities near Effingham County.
2. Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where Bermudez was hazed, highlighting institutional liability. Universities near Effingham County have the same power to protect students—and the same liability when they fail.
3. National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters closing the chapter immediately proves they knew misconduct was occurring. The same national organizations operate near Effingham County, and they are fully aware of what happens in their chapters.
4. Victims Are Afraid: Leonel fears retribution. Hazing victims in Effingham County face similar fears. We protect our clients and provide a safe path to justice.
5. One Brave Victim Can Protect Others: As Lupe Pena stated, a lawsuit like this aims to “prevent harm to another person.” Your Effingham County case could save lives.
6. $10 Million Sends a Message: This substantial lawsuit demonstrates the severe financial consequences for torturing students, a message that any institution or organization connected to Effingham County needs to hear and understand.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

Many parents in Effingham County may have a dated understanding of hazing, imagining harmless pranks or silly dares. The reality, as demonstrated by the Bermudez case and countless others across the country, is far more sinister. Modern hazing involves physical abuse, psychological torture, sexual degradation, and life-threatening activities. It is not “boys being boys”; it is often criminal assault and battery.

It IS:

• Assault
• Battery
• Torture
• Reckless endangerment
• Sometimes manslaughter or murder

The concerning statistics paint a grim picture:

• More than 55% of students involved in Greek organizations experience hazing.
• 40% of student athletes report being hazed.
• Since the year 2000, there has been at least one hazing-related death every single year in the United States.
• Shockingly, 95% of students who are hazed never report it.
• Hazing is not limited to fraternities and sororities; it occurs in sports teams, marching bands, ROTC, clubs, and various student organizations across all types of institutions.

This is a systemic institutional failure:

• Universities know hazing happens.
• National organizations know hazing happens.
• They possess the power to stop it.
• Too often, they choose not to act until a student is hospitalized, permanently injured, or dies. Only then do they “suspend” or “dissolve” chapters and claim to be “shocked” by the revelations.

The Categories of Hazing Incidents

Based on our ongoing litigation and a deep understanding of hazing, these are the types of incidents that endanger students like Leonel and those in Effingham County:

• Physical Abuse: Beatings, paddling (as with wooden paddles in the Bermudez case), branding, burning, forced and excessive exercise leading to exhaustion (e.g., 500 squats, 100 pushups, “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, 100-yard crawls).
• Forced Consumption: Binge drinking or chugging alcohol, forced eating of excessive or unpleasant foods until vomiting (e.g., milk, hot dogs, peppercorns), or consumption of non-food substances. These acts often lead to alcohol poisoning or severe gastrointestinal distress.
• Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often subjected to forced late nights and early mornings, disrupting their sleep cycles and leading to extreme exhaustion, as experienced by Leonel who was made to drive members in the early hours.
• Psychological Torture & Humiliation: This includes verbal abuse, isolation, psychological manipulation, threats, and acts designed to degrade and humiliate. Examples from the Bermudez case include being forced to carry sexually explicit objects, stripping in cold weather, and witnessing peers being hog-tied.
• Sexual Abuse: While not directly alleged as sexual assault in the Bermudez case, activities involving forced nudity, sexual acts, or carrying sexual objects are tragically common in hazing and constitute severe forms of abuse.
• Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As described in the Bermudez case, this involves spraying water into a person’s face to create the sensation of drowning. It is a terrifying and dangerous form of torture.
• Exposure: Forcing pledges to endure extreme temperatures, such as stripping in cold weather or being left outdoors for extended periods, risking hypothermia or heatstroke.
• Servitude: Forced cleaning, performing errands, acting as chauffeurs, or other tasks that demean and exploit new members.

The Life-Altering Medical Consequences

The “boys will be boys” mentality completely ignores the devastating medical reality of hazing:

• Rhabdomyolysis: As suffered by Leonel, this muscle breakdown can lead to acute kidney failure, permanent kidney damage, and even death.
• Acute Kidney Failure: A direct consequence of severe rhabdomyolysis, requiring urgent medical intervention.
• Alcohol Poisoning: A leading cause of hazing deaths.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Resulting from physical blows, falls, or other head trauma.
• Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From extreme exposure.
• Cardiac Arrest: From excessive physical exertion in individuals with underlying conditions or otherwise healthy students pushed beyond their limits.
• Gastrointestinal Distress: From forced eating or consumption of irritants.
• Infections: From injuries that are not properly treated.
• Long-Term Psychological Damage: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation are common and often require extensive therapy.
• DEATH: The ultimate, tragic outcome that far too many families have faced.

Who Is Responsible: Every Party That Participated, Enabled, or Failed to Prevent Hazing

One of Attorney 911’s core strengths is our ability to identify and pursue every single entity that bears responsibility for hazing injuries. As in the Bermudez case, we cast a wide net, ensuring that all negligent parties contribute to justice for the victim. This comprehensive approach is what Effingham County families can expect from us.

From our ongoing Pi Kappa Phi case, we are systematically pursuing claims against:

• Local Chapters (e.g., University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter): These are the direct perpetrators who organized, facilitated, and carried out the hazing. Their leadership (president, pledgemaster) bears significant responsibility, as do the individual members who participated or stood by and allowed it to happen.
• National Fraternity/Sorority Organizations (e.g., Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters): These are entities with deep pockets. They have a duty to oversee their chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, and ensure member safety. When they fail to do so, especially with a documented history of prior hazing incidents or deaths within their organization (like Andrew Coffey’s death in Pi Kappa Phi), they are liable for negligent supervision and enabling a dangerous culture.
• Universities & Colleges (e.g., University of Houston & UH Board of Regents): Educational institutions have a legal and moral duty to protect their students. If a university owns the property where hazing occurs, has the authority to regulate Greek life, or fails to act despite prior hazing incidents on campus (as UH did with the 2017 Pi Kappa Alpha hazing), they become co-conspirators in the negligence. They are responsible for providing adequate oversight and maintaining a safe learning environment.
• Individual Perpetrators: This includes not only the chapter officers who direct hazing but every member who actively participates. In the Bermudez case, this even extended to former members who hosted hazing activities at their private residence, and the spouse of a former member who permitted the abuse on their property. Every single individual involved can be held personally liable for assault, battery, and other intentional torts.
• Insurance Carriers: Behind every institution and individual, there are often insurance policies (general liability, homeowner’s, renter’s, umbrella policies). As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena know precisely how to identify these policies and ensure maximum recovery.

The “Deep Pockets” Strategy: Hazing litigation is not about suing broke college kids. It’s about holding powerful institutions—national organizations with millions in assets, universities with vast endowments, and their respective insurance carriers—accountable. We leverage these resources to secure justice and send a clear message that hazing will not be tolerated.

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

The legal landscape of hazing litigation has transformed dramatically. Landmark verdicts and settlements across the nation demonstrate that juries and courts are no longer tolerating hazing and are willing to award multi-million dollar recoveries to victims and their families. This is the precedent that empowers Attorney 911 to aggressively pursue justice for Effingham County hazing victims.

The Message to Fraternities, Universities, and National Organizations: Hazing Costs MILLIONS.

These cases prove that hazing incidents carry immense financial consequences for those responsible. The same legal strategies and financial outcomes are possible for Effingham County hazing cases.

• Stone Foltz, Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Total over $10.1 Million. Stone Foltz tragically died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” initiation event. The lawsuit resulted in a $2.9 million settlement from Bowling Green State University and an additional $7.2 million from Pi Kappa Alpha and individuals. This case, where the damages recovered exceed our $10 million demand, directly supports the value of the Bermudez claim. The chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was also personally ordered to pay $6.5 million in a judgment in December 2024, demonstrating that individual perpetrators cannot hide behind their organization.
• Maxwell Gruver, Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017): $6.1 Million Verdict. Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol during a “Bible Study” hazing event. A jury awarded his family $6.1 million, and the incident led to the passage of the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana. This jury verdict is a powerful affirmation that juries will hold fraternities accountable with significant awards.
• Timothy Piazza, Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017): Over $110 Million in Settlements. Timothy Piazza died from a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding after being forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911, and the entire incident was captured on security cameras. This egregious case resulted in numerous criminal charges, multiple convictions, and estimated settlements exceeding $110 million—showcasing the potential for massive recovery when evidence is strong and the conduct is outrageous. The tragedy also led to Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.
• Andrew Coffey, Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a “Big Brother Night” hazing event. This case is particularly significant because it involved Pi Kappa Phi—the same national organization as our current University of Houston lawsuit. Nine fraternity members were criminally charged, and the chapter was permanently closed. The civil suit reached a confidential settlement. This precedent squarely establishes that Pi Kappa Phi National had actual knowledge of deadly hazing within its chapters years before Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized. This makes their current negligence and failure to act even more indefensible.
• University of Alabama / Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2023): Lawsuit Filed for Traumatic Brain Injury. This ongoing case demonstrates that serious physical injuries from hazing, even if not fatal, warrant major lawsuits and significant claims of negligence, fraud, and assault against fraternities and individuals.
• Previous University of Houston Hazing (2017) / Pi Kappa Alpha: A University of Houston student, Jared Munoz, was hospitalized with a lacerated spleen due to hazing. A $1 million lawsuit was filed, and a grand jury even indicted the national organization. This is crucial because it proves the University of Houston had a documented history of hazing on its campus, demonstrating institutional knowledge and prior notice, yet failed to prevent another incident eight years later.
• UT Austin Sigma Chi (November 2025): In a shocking parallel, another hazing death lawsuit was filed against Sigma Chi at the University of Texas at Austin in the same week as the Bermudez case. This highlights the ongoing, pervasive nature of hazing throughout Texas and the urgent need for aggressive legal action.

Laws Created Because of Hazing Deaths: Turning Tragedy into Change

The devastating impact of hazing has not only led to massive civil awards but also to new state laws aimed at preventing future harm.

• Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law (Pennsylvania, 2018): Increased penalties, including felony charges for hazing causing death.
• Max Gruver Act (Louisiana, 2018): Made hazing a felony offense.
• Collin’s Law (Ohio, 2021): Named for Collin Wiant, another hazing victim, this law strengthened Ohio’s anti-hazing statutes to include felony charges.

These legislative changes underscore a growing societal intolerance for hazing practices. The State of Texas already has one of the nation’s strongest anti-hazing laws.

Why These Precedents Embolden Our Fight for Effingham County

1. Our $10 Million Demand is Realistic: The Stone Foltz case alone, involving similar types of physical harm (though tragically fatal), aligns perfectly with our demand for Leonel Bermudez.
2. Pi Kappa Phi Has a Deadly History: The Andrew Coffey death in 2017 within the same national organization proves a clear pattern of negligence and provides strong grounds for punitive damages. Pi Kappa Phi National had ample opportunity to address its hazing culture and failed.
3. University of Houston Had Prior Notice: The 2017 Pi Kappa Alpha incident on the UH campus confirms the university’s institutional knowledge of hazing risks, strengthening our claim of negligence and failure to protect students. The same applies to institutions near Effingham County with similar histories.
4. Juries Hate Hazing: The $6.1 million Gruver verdict shows immense jury outrage over hazing, especially when presented with egregious acts like waterboarding, forced eating, and extreme physical abuse.
5. Strong Claims Even for Non-Fatal Injuries: While Leonel survived, his injuries (rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure) are severe and potentially life-altering, warranting significant compensation akin to brain injury cases.

Texas Law Protects You: A Shield for Effingham County Hazing Victims

Families in Effingham County need to understand that Texas law, where Attorney 911 operates, is stringent against hazing. This legal framework not only provides strong grounds for criminal prosecution but also forms the basis for powerful civil lawsuits like the one we’ve filed for Leonel Bermudez. Even if hazing occurs in another state, federal civil rights claims and general negligence principles apply, and our firm’s federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses mean we can pursue justice for your child no matter where the hazing occurred in the country.

Texas Hazing Laws: Education Code Sections 37.151-37.157

The Texas Education Code explicitly defines and penalizes hazing, giving victims a powerful tool for accountability.

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151):
Hazing is broadly defined, covering any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, that endangers a student’s mental or physical health for initiation or membership purposes. This includes:

1. Physical brutality: Whipping, beating, striking (like the wooden paddles in Bermudez’s case), branding, electrical shocking, placing harmful substances on the body.
2. Unreasonable risk of harm: Sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in small spaces, calisthenics (like Leonel’s 500 squats and 100 pushups) or other activities jeopardizing physical or mental health.
3. Forced consumption: Food (e.g., milk, hot dogs, peppercorns), liquids, alcohol, drugs, etc., causing unreasonable risk or adverse health effects.
4. Criminal acts: Any activity violating the Texas Penal Code.
5. Coerced consumption: Forcing specific amounts of alcohol or drugs.

Application to the Bermudez Case and Effingham County: Our case clearly demonstrates multiple violations of this definition, including physical brutality, calisthenics creating unreasonable risk, forced food consumption, and acts of torture akin to waterboarding. Hazing within Effingham County institutions would fall under the same legal scrutiny.

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152):

• Class B Misdemeanor: For engaging in, soliciting, encouraging, aiding, or failing to report hazing. Punishable by up to 180 days jail and a $2,000 fine.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes serious bodily injury (like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure). Punishable by up to 1 year jail and a $4,000 fine.
• State Jail Felony: If hazing causes death. Punishable by 180 days to 2 years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.

The University of Houston spokesperson even mentioned “potential criminal charges,” underscoring that hazing is not just a disciplinary matter but a crime with serious consequences for individuals in Effingham County and beyond.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
The law doesn’t just target individuals; organizations can also be held accountable. If an organization condones, encourages hazing, or if its officers, members, pledges, or alumni commit hazing, it faces:

• Fines of up to $10,000.
• Denial of permission to operate on campus.
• Forfeiture of property.

This means fraternities and sororities with chapters near Effingham County, and their national headquarters, cannot escape responsibility.

Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154):
This is one of the most crucial aspects of Texas law: “It is not a defense to prosecution… that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

This directly counters the common defense used by fraternities and universities: “He could have just said no,” or “He knew what he was getting into.” The law in Texas is unequivocally clear: you cannot consent to being hazed, and the perpetrators cannot use a victim’s “consent” to avoid liability. This principle is vital for Effingham County families to understand.

University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155):
Chief administrative officers of Texas institutions must report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor. This creates an additional layer of accountability for universities, including those near Effingham County.

Civil Liability for Hazing: Beyond Criminal Charges

While criminal charges punish individuals, civil lawsuits are designed to compensate victims and hold all responsible parties accountable. For Effingham County victims, a civil claim can provide the financial recovery necessary for medical care, lost income, and the immense pain and suffering endured. Our firm pursues multiple civil claims:

1. Negligence Claims: We prove that institutions (universities, national organizations) and individuals had a duty of care to protect students, breached that 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 case.
2. Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by a university (like the University of Houston in the Bermudez case), that institution can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment and allowing dangerous conditions to exist.
3. Negligent Supervision: This applies when national organizations fail to adequately supervise their local chapters, or when universities fail to monitor Greek life activities, especially after previous incidents have put them on notice.
4. Assault and Battery: Every individual who physically harms a student through hazing can be sued for intentional assault and battery.
5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): This claim addresses the severe psychological and emotional damage caused by the extreme and outrageous conduct typical of hazing, such as the waterboarding and humiliation endured by Leonel Bermudez.
6. Wrongful Death: In the tragic event of a hazing death, families can pursue wrongful death claims for their immense losses.

These civil claims provide a path for Effingham County families to rebuild their lives and ensure justice is served, regardless of whether criminal charges are filed or successful.

Why Attorney 911: Your Advocates in Effingham County

When facing the trauma of hazing, Effingham County families need more than just a lawyer; they need an advocate who understands the unique complexities of these cases, fights aggressively, and truly cares about their child’s well-being. Attorney 911 is built on immediate, aggressive, and professional help for legal emergencies—and hazing is a profound emergency.

What Sets Us Apart for Effingham County Hazing Victims:

1. 25+ Years of Courtroom Experience: Ralph Manginello brings over two decades of experience in high-stakes litigation, demonstrating a battle-tested history that instills confidence. This expertise is directly applied for Effingham County families, building strong cases.
2. Former Insurance Defense Insight: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena previously worked as insurance defense attorneys. This invaluable insider knowledge means we understand how insurance companies evaluate claims, formulate defense strategies, and attempt to minimize payouts. We’ve seen their playbook, and we use that knowledge to dismantle their arguments and maximize recovery for Effingham County hazing victims. Lupe Peña’s experience at Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm, gives us unparalleled “battlefield intelligence.”
3. Currently Litigating $10M Hazing Lawsuit: We aren’t just talking about hazing; we’re actively fighting it right now in Harris County. The Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston case is concrete proof of our aggressive, data-driven approach. Effingham County families get the same hands-on, proven expertise.
4. Federal Court Admissions: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena are admitted to practice in the United States District Court, Southern District of Texas, providing the authority to pursue complex cases against national organizations in federal jurisdiction, regardless of where the hazing incident occurred in the nation.
5. Dual-State Bar Admission: Ralph Manginello holds bar licenses in both Texas and New York. This dual-state admission provides a strategic advantage when pursuing national fraternities and sororities that may be headquartered or conduct significant business outside of Texas, allowing us greater reach.
6. “Se Habla Español”: Our bilingual staff, including Lupe Pena, ensures that Spanish-speaking families in Effingham County receive comprehensive legal guidance without language barriers.
7. Nationwide Reach & Commitment to Travel: While headquartered in Houston, we proudly serve hazing victims in Effingham County and across America. We offer remote consultations via video to break down geographical barriers and are fully prepared to travel to Effingham County for depositions, client meetings, and trials whenever justice demands.
8. Contingency Fee Basis: We understand the financial strain that hazing injuries can place on families. That’s why we take hazing cases on contingency. This means Effingham County families pay absolutely $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win your case. This eliminates financial barriers to seeking justice against powerful institutions.
9. Deep Hazing Litigation Expertise: We have specific experience with rhabdomyolysis injury litigation, cases involving Kappa Sigma and Texas A&M University, and a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to pursue claims for hospitalization and life-threatening hazing incidents.
10. Journalism Background: Ralph Manginello’s journalism degree from the University of Texas at Austin honed his skills in investigation, uncovering facts, and crafting compelling narratives – essential talents for presenting a victim’s story powerfully in court.
11. Mass Tort / High-Stakes Litigation Experience: Ralph’s involvement in the BP Texas City Explosion litigation (a multi-billion dollar mass tort case involving 15 deaths and 180+ injuries) demonstrates our capacity to handle complex, high-stakes cases against massive corporate defendants – directly applicable to challenging national fraternities and universities.
12. Hall of Fame Athlete & Youth Coach: Ralph Manginello’s background as a Hall of Fame athlete and youth coach provides a unique understanding of team dynamics, coaching pressures, and the environments where hazing can unfortunately thrive.

Our Approach: Immediate, Aggressive, Decisive for Effingham County Families

When hazing impacts an Effingham County family, our team moves:

• FIRST: We prioritize victim safety and evidence preservation.
• FAST: We respond immediately to secure critical information and begin investigation.
• DECISIVELY: We build powerful cases with expert witnesses (medical, Greek life culture, institutional negligence) and negotiate from a position of strength, always prepared to take your case to court.

If any university, fraternity, or insurance company attempts to silence Effingham County hazing victims, we will take them to court. Our commitment is to ensure your Effingham County family receives the justice and compensation they deserve, turning your tragedy into meaningful accountability and change.

What to Do Right Now if Your Child Has Been Hazed in Effingham County

The moments immediately following a hazing incident are critical for preserving evidence and protecting your legal rights. If your child has been subjected to hazing in Effingham County or anywhere else, we offer clear, actionable guidance to help you navigate this terrifying situation.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your child’s health and safety are paramount. Even if injuries seem minor, or if the psychological impact is the primary concern, consult a doctor or mental health professional immediately. Document everything. Medical records are crucial evidence. Remember, symptoms like those of rhabdomyolysis or psychological trauma can manifest days or weeks later. Delays in seeking treatment can be used by defense attorneys to downplay the severity of the injuries.

2. Preserve All Evidence – Everything is a Clue:

• Medical Records: Obtain copies of all hospital records, emergency room visits, doctor’s notes, psychological evaluations, and therapy records related to the hazingincident. Ensure they explicitly link injuries to the hazing event.
• Photos and Videos: If safe to do so, capture images or video of any physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns) as they heal. Crucially, save any photos or videos that directly depict hazing activities. Remember Ralph Manginello’s advice: “Take pictures. Take pictures. Take pictures. Take more pictures than you think you need to. Pictures are going to tell the story. Help your lawyer tell your story.” If the victim was incapacitated, any photos taken by friends or witnesses can be vital.
• Communications: This is often the smoking gun in hazing cases. DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING. Save all text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat messages, Instagram DMs, emails, and any other digital communications related to the hazing. This includes direct threats, instructions, photos, or discussions about hazing events. These reveal coordination, coercion, and intent.
• Witness Information: Collect names and contact information for anyone who witnessed the hazing, other pledges, or anyone who has knowledge of the fraternity’s/sorority’s practices.
• Documents: Preserve any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or communications distributed by the organization.
• Financial Records: Keep track of all medical bills, receipts for medications, travel expenses to appointments, and documentation of lost wages if your child missed work or internships due to the hazing.
• Academic Records: Document any impact on grades, enrollment status, or scholarship eligibility.
• DO NOT Post on Social Media: Our video “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident” warns against this. Anything you post can and will be used against you by the defense. This includes posts about being “fine,” photos of social activities, or discussions about the incident. Avoid engaging with fraternity members online.

3. DO NOT Communicate with the Perpetrators or Institutions Without Legal Counsel:

• Fraternity/Sorority Leadership: Do not speak to chapter officers, national representatives, or alumni advisors. They are not on your side and will likely try to minimize the incident, gain information, or pressure you into silence.
• University Administrators: Be very cautious about speaking with university officials (e.g., Dean of Students, Greek Life advisors, Title IX coordinators). While reporting is important, ensure you have legal counsel to protect your rights, as their primary duty is to the institution, not necessarily to your child. As our video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” highlights, making statements to these parties without legal guidance can compromise your case.
• DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents from the fraternity, university, or their legal representatives without having an attorney review them first. You could inadvertently waive critical legal rights.

4. Contact Attorney 911 Immediately:
Time is of the essence in hazing cases. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims is generally two years from the date of injury or death. This may sound like a long time, but evidence disappears, memories fade, and delaying can severely impact your case. Our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” emphasizes this urgency. Call us for a free and confidential consultation as soon as possible. Our legal emergency hotline is available 24/7.

Why Immediate Action for Effingham County Families?

• Evidence Disappears: Digital communications can be deleted, witnesses may become uncooperative, and physical evidence can be tampered with.
• Institutional Cover-Ups: Universities and national organizations have strategies to control narratives and mitigate damage. The sooner we are involved, the better we can counter these efforts.
• Witness Intimidation: Victims often fear retaliation. Our involvement provides protection and guidance on how to speak safely and effectively.
• Statute of Limitations: Missing the legal deadline means losing your right to pursue justice forever.

Leonel Bermudez’s case is a testament to the power of swift action. Hospitalized on November 6, our lawsuit was filed within weeks, ensuring crucial evidence was preserved and the process of accountability began without delay. Effingham County families should follow this example and act decisively.

Contact Us: Your Dedicated Advocates in Effingham County

If your child has been a victim of hazing in Effingham County, or at any institution connected to your community, you are not alone. You have legal rights, and we are here to ensure those rights are fiercely protected. Attorney 911 is actively fighting against powerful institutions in ongoing hazing litigation right now, and we bring that same level of aggression, expertise, and commitment to every family we represent, including those in Effingham County.

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

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

• Email: ralph@atty911.com
• Website: attorney911.com

Our hotline is available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance for hazing emergencies. We understand that this is a stressful and frightening time, and we are ready to listen with compassion and provide clear guidance.

No Upfront Costs for Effingham County Families

We take hazing cases on a CONTINGENCY BASIS. This means you pay absolutely $0 upfront to hire us. We cover all litigation expenses, and we only get paid if we win your case. Our video “How Contingency Fees Work” explains this in detail. This commitment ensures that financial concerns never prevent Effingham County families from pursuing justice, regardless of how formidable the opposing institutions might be.

We Serve Effingham County Hazing Victims — and Hazing Victims Nationwide

While our physical offices are located in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our reach extends far beyond Texas borders. Hazing is a national crisis that impacts students in Effingham County and across America. We are uniquely equipped to represent your family, regardless of your location, through:

• Federal Court Authority: Our attorneys are admitted to practice in federal courts, allowing us to pursue cases against national fraternities and universities across state lines.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas and New York, providing a strategic advantage when dealing with national organizations that may be headquartered or conduct significant business in other states.
• Video Consultations: We offer convenient and confidential video consultations, allowing Effingham County families to meet with our experienced attorneys from the comfort of their homes.
• Commitment to Travel: Distance is not a barrier to justice. We are prepared to travel to Effingham County for depositions, client meetings, and trials as needed to aggressively pursue your case.

Remember, hazing is not confined to Greek life. We represent victims of hazing in a wide range of organizations, including:

• Fraternities and Sororities at colleges and universities where Effingham County students attend.
• Effingham County Sports Teams, including high school and college athletics.
• Marching Bands and other performance groups.
• ROTC programs and military academies.
• Clubs and Organizations at educational institutions across Effingham County and beyond.

If your child or a loved one in Effingham County has been harmed by hazing, do not suffer in silence. Every minute counts. Every piece of evidence is important. Every conversation you have before consulting an attorney can impact your case.

To Other Victims of the University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

We know Leonel Bermudez was not the only one. The lawsuit details that another pledge lost consciousness in October, and another was hog-tied. If you were part of the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter’s pledge class in Fall 2025, or any other hazing incident, we want to hear from you. You have rights, and your testimony can be critical. As 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 us. Let’s bring them ALL to justice.

Your legal emergency is our call to action. Contact Attorney 911 today.