If you’re reading this in Irwin County, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your lives. Your child went off to college, hoping to create lifelong memories and friendships. Instead, they were subjected to abuse, humiliation, and potentially life-threatening trauma. We understand what you’re going through, and we want you to know that you are not alone. Our firm, Attorney911, is here to help families in Irwin County fight back against the destructive culture of hazing that continues to plague our universities and institutions.

We are not just talking about hazing; we are actively fighting it right now. Our firm is currently litigating a landmark $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi fraternity and the University of Houston for horrific hazing that hospitalized a young man named Leonel Bermudez. What happened to Leonel could happen to any student from Irwin County who attends college, whether it’s at a local institution or a major university across the country. We are ready to bring the same aggressive, data-driven, and relentless representation to your family in Irwin County.

The Hazing Crisis: Why Irwin County Families Need Us

The hazing crisis is not a distant problem; it is a pervasive issue that impacts students and families across the nation, including those here in Irwin County. When your child leaves home for college, whether they attend Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Valdosta State University, or other institutions across Georgia or the Southeast, you trust that they will be safe. You expect them to be protected from harm, especially from the very organizations that promise brotherhood, sisterhood, and community. Tragically, for far too many, this trust is shattered by senseless acts of hazing.

Here in Irwin County, our families send their children off to pursue education and build futures. The thought that those children could be subjected to barbaric rituals disguised as “tradition” is chilling. Hazing is often cloaked in secrecy, making it difficult for parents to know what dangers their children face. But the reality is that the same national fraternities and sororities that operate on campuses nationwide have chapters at institutions that students from Irwin County attend. The same institutional negligence that allows hazing to flourish at major universities is present everywhere Greek life exists.

We believe that parents in Irwin County deserve to know the truth about hazing and that there are powerful legal avenues to hold those responsible accountable. We see the pain these incidents cause, both physically and emotionally. Our commitment is to turn that pain and anger into meaningful action, ensuring that your child’s experience is not in vain and that future students from Irwin County are protected.

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

This case isn’t just a headline for us; it’s a testament to everything we stand for at Attorney911. We are not a theoretical firm; we are in the trenches right now, fighting a major hazing lawsuit that serves as a stark warning to fraternities, universities, and parents across the country, including those in Irwin County. The details are shocking, but they showcase exactly what happens when hazing goes unchecked, and precisely how our firm steps in to demand justice. Our client’s story is a harrowing example of the egregious abuse that continues to occur in collegiate organizations today.

Leonel Bermudez, a prospective member who was planning to transfer to the University of Houston, accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity in September 2025. What followed were weeks of systematic abuse and torture that landed him in the hospital for four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He was not even a student enrolled at the University of Houston yet; he was a “ghost rush.” They subjected someone who wasn’t even fully integrated into their university system to profound physical and psychological trauma.

Within weeks of Leonel’s hospitalization, our firm filed a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court. We named not only the local Pi Kappa Phi chapter but also its national headquarters, a housing corporation, the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity members, including the chapter president and pledgemaster. This aggressive, thorough approach is exactly what it takes to send a clear message: hazing will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable.

Media Coverage of the Bermudez Case:

ABC13 Houston: On November 21-22, 2025, ABC13 reported on the lawsuit, detailing the abuse and hazing that led to Leonel’s hospitalization. Their coverage included powerful quotes from our founding attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, emphasizing the severity of the incident and our commitment to preventing future harm. You can read their full report here: Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges
KHOU 11: Also on November 21, 2025, KHOU 11 provided an in-depth report on the $10 million lawsuit, being the first to reveal Leonel Bermudez by name. Their coverage highlighted allegations of “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose” and stated that the hazing occurred in a “University-owned fraternity house,” directly implicating the institution. The full story is available here: $10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations
Houston Public Media: On November 24, 2025, Houston Public Media further detailed the allegations, including the medical consequences of Leonel’s injuries. A spokesperson for the University of Houston described the events as “deeply disturbing” and mentioned “potential criminal charges.” Read their report here: University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing

The Fraternity’s Own Admission:
Significantly, Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters itself issued a statement on November 21, 2025, announcing they had closed their Beta Nu Chapter, citing “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This closure was effective November 14, 2025, a week before our lawsuit was filed, clearly indicating knowledge of wrongdoing and an attempt to mitigate the fallout. Their statement can be found here: Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston

Why this case matters specifically to Irwin County families: The same national fraternities, including Pi Kappa Phi, have chapters active at universities that students from Irwin County attend, such as the University of Georgia, Georgia Southern University, and private institutions like Emory University or Mercer University. These painful “traditions” are not confined to Texas; they are a nationwide problem that demands a nationwide solution. If your child attends college, they could face the exact same horrifying experiences as Leonel.

Attorney 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.” This is the harrowing reality of modern hazing. And as Attorney Lupe Pena said, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

We are fighting this battle right now, bringing our full resources and expertise to bear. This is the fight we will bring to your family in Irwin County.

The Horrific Hazing Timeline: What Leonel Endured

The systematic abuse Leonel Bermudez suffered spanned weeks, escalating to a critical point that demanded immediate medical intervention. For Irwin County parents, understanding this timeline is crucial to recognizing the signs and severity of hazing.

September 16, 2025: Leonel accepts a bid from Pi Kappa Phi. The torturous “pledge process” begins immediately.
Throughout September and October: Leonel is subjected to an enforced dress code, mandatory interviews, and required study hours. He is forced to carry a fanny pack with sexually degrading objects. He often has to drive fraternity members in the early morning hours, leading to severe exhaustion. Non-compliance is met with threats of physical punishment or expulsion.
October 13, 2025: In a separate incident foreshadowing the group’s barbarism, another pledge is hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour, while fraternity members watch and prepare for a meeting. This happened at the University-owned fraternity house.
October 15, 2025: A pledge loses consciousness and collapses during a forced workout session, requiring other pledges to elevate his legs until he revived. Despite this clear warning sign of dangerous physical strain, the hazing continued unabated.
Throughout the pledge period: Leonel and other pledges are sprayed in the face with a garden hose – a simulated waterboarding technique – while performing calisthenics. They are forced to consume large quantities of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomit, then made to run sprints while in distress, lying in vomit-soaked grass. They are forced to strip to their underwear in cold weather as abuse continues. The lawsuit also alleges pledges were struck with wooden paddles.
November 3, 2025 (The Breaking Point): As punishment for missing an event, Leonel is forced to endure an extreme physical ordeal. This includes a two-mile warmup, immediately followed by over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (sprints), bear crawls, and repeated 100-yard military crawls. He is required to recite the fraternity creed throughout, with threats of expulsion if he stops. He becomes so exhausted he collapses and cannot stand without help.
November 4-5, 2025: Leonel is in agonizing pain, unable to move the next day. His condition rapidly deteriorates.
November 6, 2025: Leonel’s mother rushes him to a Houston hospital. His urine is brown, a terrifying sign that his muscles are breaking down. He is diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He is hospitalized for three nights and four days. On this same day, Pi Kappa Phi National suspends their UH chapter.
November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National officially closes the Beta Nu Chapter permanently.
November 21, 2025: Attorney911 files the $10 million lawsuit.

This timeline reveals a terrifying pattern of premeditated, escalating abuse. It demonstrates that hazing is not a one-time mistake but often a prolonged campaign of physical and psychological torment. For Irwin County families, this detailed account provides a stark warning and a clear understanding of the suffering our children can endure.

The Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis

Leonel Bermudez’s medical diagnosis is a critical piece of evidence in our lawsuit. He suffered severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, conditions that highlight the extreme physical danger of hazing.

What is Rhabdomyolysis? This is a serious medical condition where damaged muscle fibers break down, releasing their contents (including the protein myoglobin) into the bloodstream. These substances can be harmful to the kidneys and may lead to acute kidney failure. In severe cases, rhabdomyolysis can be fatal.

Leonel’s Symptoms and Diagnosis:

Brown Urine: A classic and alarming symptom, indicating myoglobin in the urine. This is what caused his mother to rush him to the hospital.
Elevated Creatine Kinase (CK) Levels: Blood tests revealed extremely high levels of CK, confirming significant muscle damage.
Acute Kidney Failure: The most severe complication he suffered, requiring immediate and aggressive medical intervention.
Hospitalization: He spent three nights and four days in inpatient care, receiving constant monitoring and treatment.
Extreme Muscle Pain and Weakness: He was so debilitated he could not stand or move independently for days.

Ralph Manginello, our lead attorney, has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis cases resulting from hazing. This medical condition is a direct consequence of the extreme and forced physical exertion, proving without a doubt the dangerous nature of the hazing rituals. For Irwin County students involved in any physical activity, the discussion of rhabdomyolysis should serve as a dire warning of the physiological toll that hazing can extract.

Institutional Responses: What They Said and What It Means

The responses from both the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters after Leonel’s hospitalization offer valuable insights into how such institutions react to hazing allegations. For Irwin County families, these statements reveal a pattern of damage control and efforts to minimize liability.

University of Houston Spokesperson (Houston Public Media): “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 demonstrates the university’s awareness of severe violations and their expectation of criminal charges, suggesting they acknowledge significant wrongdoing occurred. Their emphasis on “disciplinary action” and “potential criminal charges” hints at a desperate attempt to mitigate their own institutional liability.
Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters (Their Website): “Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity closed its Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards… We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time…” This statement, issued before our lawsuit was filed, is a critical admission. The prompt closure of the chapter indicates a clear acknowledgment of serious “violations.” The phrase “we look forward to returning to campus” reveals a disturbing lack of remorse, suggesting that the national organization views this as a temporary setback rather than a profound failure to protect its pledges. This demonstrates a deep-seated institutional problem that prioritizes reputation over human safety, signaling a need for significant punitive damages to truly alter behavior.

Both institutions acknowledge serious issues but frame their actions to limit culpability. This is why aggressive legal action by firms like Attorney911 is critical. We cut through the public relations and legal maneuvering to expose the truth and demand genuine accountability.

What Hazing Really Looks Like

For many parents in Irwin County, the term “hazing” might conjure images of harmless pranks or embarrassing tasks. However, the reality of modern hazing, as seen in Leonel Bermudez’s case, is far more sinister and dangerous. This is not about building character; it is about systematic abuse, torture, and a shocking disregard for human life. When you understand what hazing truly looks like, you understand the depth of suffering it inflicts.

It is not “boys being boys.” It is not “tradition.” It is not “building brotherhood.” It is simply abuse.

Here are some of the horrifying realities of hazing that Irwin County families need to know:

Physical Abuse: Beyond “Roughhousing”

Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As Leonel experienced, being sprayed in the face with a garden hose to simulate drowning. This is a recognized torture technique, not a college prank.
Extreme Physical Exertion: Forced, relentless workouts such as 500 squats, 100+ pushups, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and 100-yard military crawls, pushed to the point of collapse, rhabdomyolysis, and kidney failure. A fellow pledge collapsed, unconscious, just weeks before Leonel’s hospitalization.
Beatings and Paddling: Being struck with wooden paddles, a clear act of assault and battery.
Exposure: Forced to strip to underwear and endure cold weather, or forced into other forms of environmental exposure.
Branding and Burns: Though not in Leonel’s case, these barbaric acts continue to occur in hazing rituals across the country, leaving permanent physical and psychological scars.

Forced Consumption: A Deadly Game

Alcohol Poisoning: The most common cause of hazing deaths. Pledges are forced to consume massive amounts of alcohol rapidly, often leading to blackout, unconsciousness, and death from acute alcohol poisoning, as with Max Gruver at LSU and Andrew Coffey at FSU.
Food and Non-Food Substances: Being forced to eat until vomiting, as Leonel was made to do with milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns. This extends to consuming noxious or dangerous substances.
Hydration Deprivation/Over-Hydration: Preventing access to water, or conversely, forcing excessive water intake beyond safe limits.

Psychological Torture and Humiliation: The Invisible Wounds

Hog-Tying and Degradation: The incident where another pledge was hog-tied face-down with an object in his mouth for over an hour demonstrates extreme psychological and physical humiliation.
Symbolic Degradation: Being forced to carry objects of a sexual nature, as Leonel was, is a profound act of humiliation.
Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to stay awake for extended periods, or waking them repeatedly at odd hours, leading to physical and mental deterioration. Leonel driving members in the early morning hours contributed to his exhaustion.
Verbal Abuse and Threats: Constant yelling, insults, and threats of physical punishment or expulsion from the group, creating an environment of fear and anxiety.
Isolation and Control: Enforced dress codes, rigid schedules, and constant monitoring are designed to strip pledges of their individuality and autonomy.

Sexual Hazing: The Unspoken Trauma

While not directly alleged in Leonel’s case, sexual hazing is a dark, prevalent, and underreported aspect of collegiate abuse. This can range from forced nudity and simulated sexual acts to sexual assault, and the carrying of sexually degrading objects. The psychological toll of sexual hazing is often lifelong.

Medical Consequences: The Long-Term Impact

The injuries from hazing are far more severe than cuts and bruises. They include:

Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure: As suffered by Leonel, leading to multi-day hospitalizations, and potentially long-term kidney damage.
Alcohol Poisoning: Fatal in numerous hazing incidents.
Traumatic Brain Injuries: From falls during forced activities, beatings, or assaults.
Hypothermia/Heatstroke: From forced exposure to extreme temperatures.
Cardiac Arrest: Due to extreme physical exertion or underlying conditions exacerbated by hazing.
Long-Term Psychological Damage: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and lifelong trust issues.

This is what hazing looks like today. This is the reality that parents in Irwin County must understand. It is not something to be brushed aside as a “rite of passage.” It is criminal abuse, and it demands justice.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Entity to Account

One of the most crucial aspects of an effective hazing lawsuit, especially for families in Irwin County, is identifying and holding every responsible party accountable. Hazing is rarely the act of just one individual; it is enabled by a web of negligence that spans from individual members to the highest levels of national organizations and university administrations. At Attorney911, we are relentless in pursuing every entity liable for the harm caused.

In the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, our lawsuit meticulously named each of these culpable parties:

1. The Local Chapter: Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu

Direct Participants & Organizers: The acting members who directly planned, initiated, and executed the hazing activities. These are the individuals who physically abused Leonel, forced him to perform dangerous acts, and subjected him to psychological torment.
Chapter Officers: The fraternity’s leadership, including the President and Pledgemaster, who are charged with upholding fraternity rules and university policies. Their explicit roles in orchestrating or allowing the hazing make them directly responsible.
Individual Members: Every member who participated in, witnessed, or tacitly condoned the hazing without intervening is potentially liable. The legal theory here extends beyond just active participation to complicity and failure to act.
Former Members & Their Spouses: In Leonel’s case, some of the hazing occurred at the private residence of a former member and his spouse. This expands liability to individuals who hosted or allowed such activities on their property, invoking premises liability claims.

2. The National Organization: Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters

Negligent Supervision: Despite operating over 150 chapters nationwide, including those students from Irwin County might encounter, Pi Kappa Phi National failed to adequately supervise its local chapters. They are responsible for setting and enforcing anti-hazing policies, and their failure to do so directly contributes to incidents like Leonel’s.
Pattern of Negligence: The national fraternity had prior knowledge of deadly hazing incidents within its organization, most notably the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University in 2017. Their failure to implement effective changes in the eight years between Coffey’s death and Bermudez’s hospitalization demonstrates a conscious indifference to risk. Our lawsuit alleges they knew of a “hazing crisis” and still failed to enforce their rules.
Deep Pockets: National fraternities are well-funded organizations with substantial assets and liability insurance policies. They are structured to protect themselves, but we know how to peel back those layers.

3. The University: University of Houston & UH Board of Regents

Institutional Negligence: Universities have a fundamental duty to protect their students. In Leonel’s case, the University of Houston was uniquely liable because they owned the fraternity house where significant hazing occurred. This makes them directly responsible for the conditions on their property.
Prior Knowledge & Failure to Act: The University of Houston had a clear prior incident in 2017 involving a student hospitalized from hazing at another fraternity on their campus. This established institutional knowledge that hazing was a problem on their campus, yet they failed to implement effective safeguards to prevent repeat incidents.
Oversight & Control: Universities exert significant control over Greek life, through housing agreements, recognition policies, and judicial systems. Their failure to properly oversee these organizations, especially when they own the property, makes them a critical defendant.
Duty of Care: Leonel Bermudez was a “ghost rush,” meaning he wasn’t yet enrolled at UH but planned to transfer. The university still has a duty of care, particularly when their property and affiliated organizations are involved in harming prospective students.

4. The Insurance Carriers

Behind every national organization and university are multiple layers of insurance policies providing substantial coverage for liability claims. As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena bring invaluable insider knowledge on how to identify these policies, assess their limits, and strategically leverage them to maximize compensation for victims. We know their playbook from the inside out.

For Irwin County families, understanding this comprehensive approach to liability is key. When hazing occurs, it is not just the individual perpetrators, but the entire system that failed your child. We ensure that every responsible party, from the college student who threw the punch to the university president who looked the other way, is held fully accountable.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof That Justice Is Possible

When tragedy strikes due to hazing, the path to justice can seem daunting. For families in Irwin County, it’s vital to know that these are not unwinnable battles. Our firm is not just talking about accountability; we are securing multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements that send an undeniable message: hazing has a high price. These precedent-setting cases demonstrate what is possible for victims nationwide, including those from Irwin County.

The cases below underscore the severe financial and legal consequences faced by fraternities, individuals, and universities responsible for hazing. These outcomes empower us to confidently pursue maximum compensation for families like yours.

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

Total Payout: $10.1 Million+

Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old student at Bowling Green State University, died in March 2021 from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation event. The fallout was immense:

BGSU paid $2.9 Million to Stone’s family, marking the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio’s history.
Pi Kappa Alpha National and several individual members paid $7.2 Million.
In December 2024, a personal judgment of $6.5 Million was rendered against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, for his role in the hazing.

Why this matters to Irwin County families: This case sets a powerful precedent. Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure is directly in line with this $10.1 million payment for a hazing death. It proves that both universities and national fraternities are financially liable, and that individuals – even chapter presidents – can face massive personal judgments.

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

Jury Verdict: $6.1 Million

Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman at LSU, died in September 2017 from acute alcohol poisoning after a Phi Delta Theta hazing event called “Bible Study.” Pledges were forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol for answering questions incorrectly.

His family was awarded a $6.1 Million jury verdict.
A fraternity member was convicted of negligent homicide and sentenced to prison.
The tragedy spurred the passage of the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana.

Why this matters to Irwin County families: This case emphatically demonstrates that juries are willing to deliver multi-million dollar verdicts to hazing victims. It also shows that criminal justice can run alongside civil litigation, with both leading to significant accountability and legislative change.

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

Estimated Total Settlements: $110 Million+

Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge at Penn State, died in February 2017 after a Beta Theta Pi hazing ritual forced him to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes. He fell multiple times, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity brothers waited 12 hours before calling 911.

The case resulted in multiple confidential settlements estimated to be over $110 Million.
18 fraternity members faced criminal charges, with several convictions for involuntary manslaughter and hazing.
The Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law became a national model for stricter hazing statutes.

Why this matters to Irwin County families: The sheer scale of the settlements in the Piazza case illustrates the potential for massive financial consequences when hazing is egregious and evidence (like surveillance video) is irrefutable. It underscores that universities and fraternities face immense liability for their failures.

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

The Same National Fraternity as Leonel’s Case

Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old FSU student, died in November 2017 from alcohol poisoning after a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon.

Nine fraternity members faced criminal charges.
The chapter was permanently closed.
A civil lawsuit resulted in a confidential settlement.

Why this matters to Irwin County families: This is critical! Pi Kappa Phi, the same national fraternity involved in Leonel Bermudez’s case, had a student die in 2017 from hazing. This proves that Pi Kappa Phi National KNEW about the deadly hazing culture within its organization. For eight years following Andrew Coffey’s death, they failed to implement effective safeguards, directly leading to Leonel’s hospitalization. This pattern of negligence bolsters our argument for punitive damages and shows that Pi Kappa Phi is a repeat offender.

UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON’S OWN HISTORY: The University of Houston itself had a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017, when a student named Jared Munoz suffered a lacerated spleen after hazing at a Pi Kappa Alpha chapter. This means UH also had eight years’ notice that hazing was a dangerous problem on its campus, yet failed to prevent Leonel Bermudez’s ordeal. This creates a powerful argument for institutional negligence.

These cases send an unambiguous message: universities and fraternities that allow hazing to occur will face severe financial penalties. For Irwin County families who have suffered due to hazing, these precedents mean that significant compensation is not just a hope, but a proven reality.

Legal Framework Protects Irwin County Victims: Texas Law and Beyond

For families in Irwin County grappling with the trauma of hazing, understanding the legal framework that protects victims is a critical first step towards justice. While our firm is based in Texas, the principles of anti-hazing laws and civil liability extend nationwide, offering robust protections regardless of where the incident occurred.

Texas Anti-Hazing Law: Education Code § 37.151-37.157

Texas boasts one of the nation’s most comprehensive anti-hazing statutes, and its provisions are instrumental in our litigation efforts. Here’s what Irwin County families should know:

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Texas law broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed at a student for the purpose of joining or maintaining membership in an organization, if the act endangers the mental or physical health or safety of the student. This includes physical brutality (like striking, beating, branding), sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, forced calisthenics (like Leonel’s 500 squats that led to rhabdomyolysis), forced consumption of food or alcohol to excess, and any activity violating the Penal Code. Leonel Bermudez’s experience directly violates multiple aspects of this definition.
Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Hazing is a crime in Texas. Simple hazing is a Class B Misdemeanor. Hazing causing serious bodily injury (which includes rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, as Leonel suffered) is a Class A Misdemeanor, carrying up to one year in jail. Hazing causing death is a State Jail Felony, with up to two years in state jail. These criminal charges often pave the way for civil lawsuits.
Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): The law explicitly states that an organization is liable if it “condones or encourages hazing” or if its members commit hazing. This is crucial for holding local chapters and national organizations accountable, potentially resulting in fines, denial of operation rights, and forfeiture of property.
CONSENT IS NOT A DEFENSE (§ 37.154): This is perhaps the most powerful legal tool in our arsenal. Texas law clearly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution… that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.” This unequivocally blocks the common defense that victims “volunteered” or “knew what they were getting into.” Under Texas law, students cannot legally consent to be hazed. This principle is vital for hazing victims from Irwin County facing such arguments.
Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Universities in Texas must report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor. This creates a paper trail and holds institutions accountable for transparency.

While this summary focuses on Texas law, many states, including Georgia, have similar anti-hazing statutes with criminal penalties and provisions for civil liability. Our firm leverages this national legal landscape, combining state-specific laws with broader civil liability theories to build powerful cases.

Civil Liability Theories: Beyond Criminal Prosecution

A civil lawsuit offers families in Irwin County the opportunity to seek financial compensation for the extensive damages caused by hazing. We pursue multiple legal theories to hold all responsible parties accountable:

Negligence: This is the most common claim. We argue that the university, national fraternity, and local chapter had a duty of care to protect students, that they breached this duty by allowing hazing, and that this breach directly caused the victim’s injuries and damages. This applies to institutions local to Irwin County, as well as those across the country.
Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (as in Leonel’s case, where UH owned the fraternity house), the institution can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment and allowing dangerous conditions (hazing) to exist.
Negligent Supervision: We assert that national organizations failed to adequately train or oversee their chapters, and that universities failed to properly monitor Greek life activities.
Assault and Battery: Individual fraternity members who physically harmed the victim (e.g., waterboarding, paddling) can be sued directly for intentional torts.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: Hazing often involves extreme and outrageous conduct that causes severe psychological harm, leading to claims for mental anguish and emotional distress.
Wrongful Death: In the tragic event of a hazing death, families can pursue wrongful death claims to recover for their profound losses, including funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and lost future income.

For Irwin County victims, it’s also important to remember that our firm has federal court admissions, meaning we can pursue certain claims in federal courts. This, combined with Ralph Manginello’s dual Texas and New York bar admissions, gives us strategic advantages when confronting national fraternities and sororities that operate across state lines. We are equipped to navigate the complex legal landscape wherever your child’s hazing incident occurred.

Why Attorney911 Is the Obvious Choice for Irwin County Hazing Victims

When your family in Irwin County faces the unthinkable reality of hazing, you need legal representation that is not just knowledgeable, but deeply committed, battle-tested, and truly understands the unique complexities of these cases. Attorney911 is built precisely for this fight. We are not just another personal injury firm; we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™ with a proven track record, especially in hazing litigation, and we extend our aggressive advocacy to families nationwide, including those in Irwin County.

Here’s why Irwin County families should choose us:

1. We Are Actively Fighting Hazing RIGHT NOW

Our $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for Leonel Bermudez’s horrific waterboarding and kidney failure isn’t theoretical. It’s a live, ongoing battle in the Harris County Civil District Court. This case is the centerpiece of everything we stand for:

We know the tactics of fraternities and universities.
We understand the medical realities of hazing injuries like rhabdomyolysis.
We are confronting major institutions unapologetically.
Irwin County families get the benefit of this real-time experience. We are constantly sharpening our strategies against the very organizations that may have harmed your child.

2. Unparalleled Insider Knowledge: Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena spent significant portions of their careers working for the other side—defending insurance companies. This isn’t just a detail; it’s a strategic advantage for your family in Irwin County.

Ralph Manginello honed his skills learning how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims.
Lupe Pena, coming from Litchfield Cavo LLP, a national insurance defense firm, understands the intricate tactics major corporate defendants use to protect their bottom line. He defended against product liability, personal injury, construction law, and more.
Benefit to Irwin County: They know the insurance companies’ playbook from the inside out. They anticipate defense strategies, uncover hidden policies, and dismantle arguments designed to deny your family justice. We know exactly how universities and national fraternities, and their insurers, will attempt to fight your case.

3. Deep Litigation Experience Against Massive Corporations

Ralph Manginello’s experience in the multi-billion dollar BP Texas City Explosion Litigation (which involved 15 deaths and over 180 injuries) demonstrates his capacity to take on the largest, most powerful corporate defendants. This complex mass tort litigation required meticulous evidence gathering, expert coordination, and relentless advocacy.

Benefit to Irwin County: Hazing cases involve similarly massive and sophisticated defendants—multi-million dollar national fraternities and multi-billion dollar universities. Our experience fighting corporate giants means we are unafraid and well-prepared to take on any institution, anywhere.

4. Nationwide Reach with Federal Court Authority & Dual-State Bar Admissions

Our firm is headquartered in Houston, with offices also in Austin and Beaumont. However, hazing is a national problem, and we serve victims across America, including Irwin County.

Federal Court Admissions: Both Ralph and Lupe are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal authority provides broader jurisdiction, often allowing us to pursue national defendants even outside of state boundaries.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas AND New York. This dual licensure is a strategic asset when dealing with national fraternity organizations, many of which are headquartered or have significant operations in the Northeast. This allows us to pursue complex cases that cross state lines without jurisdictional limitations.
We Travel to You: Distance is not a barrier to justice. We utilize video consultations for initial meetings and are prepared to travel to Irwin County for depositions, witness interviews, and trials when necessary.

5. Bilingual Representation: Se Habla Español

A significant portion of the population in Irwin County and Georgia speaks Spanish. Our bilingual staff, including Lupe Pena who is fluent in Spanish, ensures that language barriers never stand in the way of justice.

Benefit to Irwin County: We can communicate directly and empathetically with Spanish-speaking families, explaining complex legal concepts clearly and ensuring their stories are fully heard and understood.

6. Proven Track Record and Commitment to Your Family

Our Google reviews (4.9 stars with over 250 reviews) speak volumes about our dedication to clients. Testimonials repeatedly highlight our communication, compassion, and aggressive pursuit of maximum settlements.

“They treat you like family” is a recurring theme. We understand that Irwin County families are going through one of the hardest times of their lives, and we treat every client with the respect and care they deserve.
Contingency Fees: We take hazing cases on contingency. This means Irwin County families pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if and when we win your case. This eliminates the financial barrier to justice, ensuring that powerful institutions cannot simply outspend victims.

7. Deep Understanding of University & Greek Life Culture

Ralph Manginello’s background as a Hall of Fame athlete and youth coach gives him a unique insight into team dynamics, institutional structures, and the pressures that can lead to hazing. This personal understanding complements our legal expertise, allowing us to build cases that resonate with juries about the insidious nature of hazing culture.

When your child from Irwin County has been harmed by hazing, you need a firm that knows how to fight, has the experience to win, and truly cares about your family. Attorney911 offers that complete package.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Irwin County Families

The immediate aftermath of a hazing incident can be overwhelming and confusing for any family, especially for those in Irwin County trying to navigate this crisis from potentially far away. However, swift action and careful documentation are crucial to protecting your child’s legal rights and building a strong case. Here’s what you should do right now:

Step 1: Prioritize Your Child’s Health and Safety

Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If your child suffered physical injuries, no matter how minor they seem, get them to a doctor or emergency room immediately. This is paramount for their well-being and creates an official medical record. Leonel Bermudez was rushed to the hospital after his mother observed his brown urine. This quick thinking was critical.
Document Everything Medically: Ensure all symptoms, injuries, and the suspected cause (hazing activity) are documented in medical records. Follow all doctor’s orders for follow-up care, specialists, or therapy.
Address Psychological Trauma: Hazing often leaves deep psychological scars. Seek counseling or therapy for your child, even if physical injuries are minor. Documenting emotional distress is as important as documenting physical harm.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence Immediately

Evidence can disappear quickly, or be actively destroyed by those responsible. This is a critical step for Irwin County families.

Photos and Videos: Take clear, timestamped photos and videos of any physical injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling, etc.) as soon as they appear and as they heal. If there are any photos or videos of the hazing activities themselves, save them immediately.
Communications: This is arguably the most important type of evidence in hazing cases.
- Screenshot EVERYTHING: Text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat stories, Instagram DMs, TikTok videos, Facebook posts, emails, and any other digital communications related to the hazing. Pay attention to messages organizing events, threatening pledges, or discussing injuries.
- Do NOT delete anything: Even messages from your child complaining about the hazing, or even seemingly innocent conversations, can be crucial. Deleting anything can harm your case.
Physical Evidence: Preserve any physical items related to the hazing, such as clothing, “pledge books,” or objects used in the rituals.
Witness Information: Collect the names and contact information of other pledges, fraternity/sorority members, or any bystanders who may have witnessed the hazing or its aftermath. Their testimony can be invaluable.
Documents: Save any “pledge manuals,” schedules, rules, or codes of conduct given to your child by the organization or university.
Financial Records: Keep track of all medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages from missed work, and any academic losses (e.g., tuition for a semester your child couldn’t complete).

Watch our video on using your phone to document evidence: Using Your Phone to Document Evidence

Step 3: Avoid Critical Mistakes That Can Damage Your Case

In the chaotic aftermath of hazing, it’s easy to make missteps that can undermine your legal efforts.

Do NOT discuss the incident with the fraternity/sorority or university without legal counsel. They will likely try to get your child to sign documents, make statements, or attend meetings that could waive their rights or minimize the incident.
Do NOT post about the incident on social media. Anything you or your child posts can be used by the defense to discredit claims of injury or trauma. Social media is a minefield. Consider laying low on all platforms until your legal team advises otherwise. Watch our video: “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” at Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case
Do NOT give recorded statements to anyone from the fraternity/sorority, university, or their insurance companies. Refer all inquiries to your attorney.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney IMMEDIATELY

Time is of the essence.

Statute of Limitations: In Texas, and many other states, you typically have two years from the date of injury (or date of death in wrongful death cases) to file a lawsuit. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to pursue compensation entirely. Watch our video: Texas Statutes of Limitations
Evidence Disappears: The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to gather crucial evidence. Witnesses’ memories fade, digital evidence can be deleted, and physical evidence can be lost.
Free Consultation: We offer a free, confidential consultation. There is no obligation, and you risk nothing by understanding your legal options. We represent victims on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay $0 upfront unless and until we win your case. Watch our video: How Contingency Fees Work

For Irwin County families, even if the incident occurred out of state, we can help. Our expertise in federal court and our dual-state bar admissions give us the reach to handle hazing cases nationwide. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin building your case for justice.

Contact Us: YOUR Legal Emergency Hotline for Irwin County Hazing Victims

Irwin County families: You are in a legal emergency. But you don’t have to face it alone.

The trauma of hazing can leave lasting scars, and the thought of confronting powerful institutions like universities and national fraternities can be daunting. But we want you to know that you have rights, and our firm, Attorney911, is ready to fight for you. We are aggressively litigating high-stakes hazing cases right now, and we bring that same relentless determination to every family we represent, including yours in Irwin County.

If your child has been a victim of hazing, don’t wait. Time is critical, and evidence must be preserved.
Call our Legal Emergency Hotline immediately for a free, confidential consultation. We are available 24/7 because legal emergencies don’t keep business hours.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

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

No Upfront Cost for Irwin County Families: We handle hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely $0 upfront. We only get paid if and when we win your case. Your focus should be on your child’s recovery, not on legal fees.

We Serve Irwin County Hazing Victims Everywhere They Are

While our primary offices are located in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our reach extends far beyond these cities. Hazing impacts students from Irwin County who attend colleges and universities across Georgia, the Southeast, and throughout the nation. No matter where the hazing incident occurred, we can help.

Federal Court Authority: Our attorneys are admitted to federal courts, allowing us to pursue claims against national organizations that extend across state lines.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello holds bar admissions in both Texas and New York, providing a strategic advantage when litigating against national fraternities often headquartered in other regions.
Remote Consultations: We offer convenient video consultations for Irwin County families, allowing you to connect with our expert legal team from the comfort and privacy of your home.
Travel Commitment: When necessary, our attorneys are prepared to travel to Irwin County for depositions, client meetings, and trials. Distance will not be a barrier to justice for your family.

Hazing Is NOT Just Fraternity Life

The hazing crisis isn’t confined to fraternities and sororities. Students from Irwin County can be victims in a wide range of organizations, including:

College sports teams
Marching bands and other musical ensembles
ROTC programs and military organizations
University-sanctioned clubs and student groups
High school teams and clubs

Wherever abuse is disguised as “initiation,” we are prepared to fight.

Our Message to Irwin County Families: Enough Is Enough.

We know the fear, anger, and betrayal you might be feeling. Your child deserves justice, and the institutions that failed them must be held accountable. Leonel Bermudez’s case is not just about one student; it’s about sending a message to every fraternity, every university leadership, and every individual who thinks hazing is acceptable.

Pick up the phone. Let us hear your story. Let us help you turn your pain into power. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Your call can change everything.