If you’re reading this in Lincoln County, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your lives. Your child went off to college, eager to forge new friendships and build a future. 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: you are not alone. Our firm, Attorney911, is here to help families in Lincoln County fight back against the insidious problem of hazing.

We are not just talking about hazing; we are actively fighting it in court right now. Our firm is currently litigating a landmark $10 million lawsuit, Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al., filed in November 2025. This case against a national fraternity, a major university, and numerous individuals exposes the brutal reality of modern hazing. What happened to our client, Leonel Bermudez, in Houston, serves as a stark warning to parents in Lincoln County and across America. It shows explicitly what hazing looks like, what the consequences can be, and how vigorously we fight for our clients.

We understand that when your child is injured, or worse, killed, by hazing, you are left with immense pain, anger, and countless questions. How could this happen? Who is responsible? How can we prevent it from happening again? Our mission is to provide you with answers, relentless advocacy, and the aggressive legal representation needed to hold every responsible party accountable. We bring decades of courtroom experience, insider knowledge of insurance defense tactics, and a deep understanding of hazing litigation to every case, serving families in Lincoln County, throughout Georgia, and nationwide.

The Landmark Case: A $10 Million Fight for Justice That Should Alarm Lincoln County Families

The case of Leonel Bermudez is not just another legal filing; it is the embodiment of everything Attorney911 stands for. It’s a testament to our aggressive, data-driven, and relentless pursuit of justice for hazing victims. This happened just weeks ago in Houston, but the actions, the attitudes, and the deep-seated problems it uncovers are replicated at universities near Lincoln County and across the nation.

Leonel Bermudez was not even an enrolled student at the University of Houston yet. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member planning to transfer for the upcoming semester, eager to find a welcoming community. Instead, he found himself trapped in a weeks-long nightmare orchestrated by the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity chapter at UH.

From September 16 to November 3, 2025, Leonel was subjected to systematic torture, not friendship. The hazing inflicted upon him was so extreme, so brutal, that it landed him in the hospital for four days, battling severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. This could happen to any child in Lincoln County attending any college that hosts these national organizations.

Within days of the hazing being reported, the Pi Kappa Phi chapter at the University of Houston was suspended by its national organization. The members then voted to surrender their charter, and the chapter was permanently closed. The University of Houston itself called the conduct “deeply disturbing” and initiated criminal referrals. These actions didn’t come from a sudden revelation of conscience; they came because of the severity of the hazing and the immediate pursuit of accountability by Attorney911.

Our firm wasted no time. We filed a $10 million lawsuit naming not only Pi Kappa Phi, but also the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, the fraternity’s housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity members, including the president, pledgemaster, and even a former member and his spouse at whose residence some of the hazing occurred. This aggressive, comprehensive approach is precisely what we bring to every hazing case, whether it originates in Houston or affects a family in Lincoln County.

The Media is Watching: Our Case in the News

The severity of Leonel’s ordeal and the scale of our lawsuit immediately garnered significant media attention across Texas. This kind of public scrutiny is vital in forcing institutions to confront the reality of hazing.

Here are just some of the outlets that covered our filing:

ABC13 (KTRK) Houston reported on November 21-22, 2025: “Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges.”
KHOU 11 Houston published their coverage on November 21, 2025: “$10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations.”
Houston Chronicle covered the story on November 22, 2025: “UH fraternity hazing lawsuit.”
Houston Public Media followed up on November 24, 2025: “University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing.”

Even Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters itself issued a public statement on November 21, 2025: “Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston,” acknowledging “violations” just days after our client’s hospitalization.

What Happened to Leonel Bermudez: The Horrific Details

Leonel’s ordeal began on September 16, 2025, the day he accepted his bid to join Pi Kappa Phi. Over the next seven weeks, his hopes of brotherhood were systematically dismantled by a regimen of abuse:

Waterboarding with a Garden Hose: Our client was subjected to simulated waterboarding, where he was sprayed in the face with a garden hose while performing calisthenics. This is torture, a practice considered a war crime when inflicted upon enemy combatants. Yet, fraternity members did it to a fellow student.
Extreme Physical Punishment: He was forced to perform 100+ push-ups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (running drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-your-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was made to recite the fraternity creed while enduring this, under threat of immediate expulsion if he stopped. Other pledges were struck with wooden paddles.
Forced Consumption Until Vomiting: Leonel was compelled to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and even peppercorns until he vomited. Even after vomiting, he was forced to continue running sprints while clearly in physical distress, and made to lie in his own vomit-soaked grass.
Psychological Torture & Humiliation: He was made to carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature at all times. Another pledge was even hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. Pledges were often forced to strip to their underwear in cold weather while being sprayed with a hose.
Sleep Deprivation & Exhaustion: Leonel was frequently forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, contributing to his extreme exhaustion.

This relentless abuse culminated on November 3, 2025, when Leonel, punished for missing an event, was driven past the point of human endurance. He performed countless exercises until he could no longer stand without help, crawling into bed when he finally made it home. By November 6, his condition had worsened dramatically; he was passing brown urine—a classic sign of muscle breakdown—and his mother rushed him to the hospital.

He spent three nights and four days in the hospital, diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. Rhabdomyolysis is a serious condition where muscle tissue breaks down, releasing harmful substances into the bloodstream that can cause acute kidney failure and even death. Leonel’s life was on the line, and he continues to face the risk of permanent kidney damage.

As Ralph Manginello told ABC13 in the immediate aftermath: “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.”

And as Lupe Peña added, emphasizing the broader impact: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Unmasking Institutional Complicity

The University of Houston’s response to this horrific event further implicates their role. As KHOU 11 reported, the hazing occurred at “fraternity-controlled properties (including a University-owned fraternity house and a private residence).” The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where Leonel was tortured. This establishes clear premises liability – they collected rent while students were being brutalized on their property. Despite knowing hazing was an issue (another UH student was hospitalized in 2017 from hazing), they failed to protect Leonel.

Pi Kappa Phi National’s own statement, while attempting to manage public relations, also revealed crucial admissions. They closed the Beta Nu Chapter on November 14, 2025, a mere seven days before our lawsuit was filed. This conscious act to “close the chapter” based on “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy” demonstrates they were aware of the severe wrongdoing and tried to distance themselves before formal legal action. Their statement even “thanked the University of Houston for its collaboration,” indicating a coordinated effort between the defendants.

What’s even more egregious is that their statement also optimistically declared, “we look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time.” This shows a shocking lack of remorse, a business-as-usual mentality that prioritizes their presence on campus over the severe harm inflicted upon a young man.

Why This Case Resonates for Lincoln County Families

Identical Dangers in Lincoln County: Pi Kappa Phi has over 150 chapters across America, and its “traditions” are not unique to Houston. The same types of hazing occur at colleges and universities near Lincoln County, throughout Georgia, and all over the country. The national fraternities that have caused harm elsewhere also operate chapters in your community.
Institutional Accountability: Universities like the University of Houston, and those in or near Lincoln County, have a duty to protect their students. When they own property, oversee Greek life, and fail to prevent torture, they are complicit.
National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi National had ample warning; Andrew Coffey died in a Pi Kappa Phi hazing incident in 2017. Eight years later, Leonel was hospitalized. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and a failure to address deadly hazing culture at the highest levels of the organization—a pattern we argue exists throughout their national structure.
One Victim Can Make a Difference: Leonel Bermudez’s courage in coming forward can, as Lupe Peña stated, prevent harm to others. Your case in Lincoln County could be the catalyst for change, sending a powerful message that abuse will not be tolerated.
$10 Million Sends a Message: This substantial claim isn’t just about compensating Leonel for his injuries; it’s about forcing institutions to prioritize student safety over “tradition” and reputation. Lincoln County families impacted by hazing deserve to send the same powerful message.

We don’t just talk about hazing; we take on the institutions responsible and fight for justice. This case is happening now, proving our unwavering commitment to holding every liable party accountable.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes for Lincoln County Families

For many in Lincoln County, the word “hazing” might conjure images of harmless pranks or mild inconveniences. Perhaps it’s seen as a character-building rite of passage, or “just boys being boys.” These dangerous misconceptions protect the very culture of abuse we are fighting. What happened to Leonel Bermudez is not a “prank.” It is not “fun.” It is not “tradition.” It is criminal, it is torture, and it happens every day at colleges and universities across the country, including those that students from Lincoln County attend.

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of joining an organization. The key word is “endangers.” There is no such thing as “harmless” hazing when a power imbalance exists.

Based on our current litigation and countless other cases we’ve seen, here’s what hazing actually entails:

Extreme Physical Abuse

Forced Calisthenics to Collapse: This goes beyond simple exercise. Pledges are forced to perform hundreds of push-ups, squats, sprints (“suicides”), bear crawls, and wheelbarrow drills until their bodies give out. This is precisely what led to Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure.
Paddling and Beatings: The use of wooden paddles, belts, or other objects to strike pledges is a common practice, as described in the Houston Chronicle’s reporting on Leonel’s case. This is direct physical assault.
Branding and Burning: In some severe cases, pledges are branded with hot objects or exposed to caustic chemicals.
Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often forced to stay awake for extended periods, perform tasks late into the night, or drive members during early morning hours, leading to dangerous levels of exhaustion, as Leonel Bermudez experienced.
Exposure to Elements: Being forced to strip to underwear in cold weather or enduring harsh outdoor conditions, often combined with being sprayed with water, is a common tactic to break down individuals, mirroring parts of Leonel’s ordeal.

Torturous Psychological Abuse

Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As Leonel’s case tragically illustrates, this is exactly what it sounds like—spraying water in a person’s face to simulate drowning. Houston Public Media correctly called it a form of torture. This inflicts extreme terror and can lead to severe psychological trauma, including PTSD.
Humiliation and Degradation: This includes forced nudity, being made to wear embarrassing costumes, or carrying objects of a sexual nature, as Leonel was forced to do. It strips individuals of their dignity and self-worth.
Verbal Abuse and Threats: Constant yelling, insults, and threats of physical punishment, expulsion, or social ostracization are used to maintain control and fear.
Isolation and Confinement: Pledges may be confined to small, dark spaces or isolated from their support systems, heightening their vulnerability.
Forced Servitude: Being compelled to perform chores, errands, or personal services for older members.

Dangerous Consumption

Forced Alcohol Consumption: This is one of the deadliest forms of hazing. Pledges are made to drink excessive amounts of alcohol, often rapidly, leading to acute alcohol poisoning. This was the cause of death for Andrew Coffey (Pi Kappa Phi), Maxwell Gruver (Phi Delta Theta), and Timothy Piazza (Beta Theta Pi).
Forced Eating or Ingestion of Noxious Substances: Pledges are made to consume large quantities of food (like milk or hot dogs until vomiting, as in Leonel’s case), or even non-food items, leading to choking, aspiration, or severe gastrointestinal distress.
Drug Use: In some horrifying cases, pledges are coerced into using illegal drugs.

Sexual Hazing

Forced Nudity and Sexual Acts: Pledges may be forced into nudity, to perform sexual acts, or to simulate them. This is sexual assault and can cause lifelong trauma.
Sexual Humiliation: Carrying sexually explicit objects or participating in sexually degrading activities, as our client was forced to do, is a form of sexual hazing.

These acts are not about “brotherhood”; they are about power, control, and domination. They are designed to break a person down, forcing them to endure unimaginable suffering for acceptance. For parents in Lincoln County, it’s crucial to understand that these tactics are not isolated incidents but pervasive patterns within Greek life and other student organizations. If your child has experienced any of these, they are a victim of hazing, and they deserve justice.

The Real Statistics of Hazing: It’s Worse Than You Think

The stories we hear, and the ones we fight in court, aren’t anomalies. They reflect a widespread and dangerous culture:

55% of students in Greek organizations report experiencing hazing. This means over half of students from Lincoln County who pledge a fraternity or sorority are likely to be hazed.
40% of student athletes report hazing. This isn’t just a Greek life problem; it pervades teams, clubs, and other student groups.
Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every single year in the United States. This isn’t a fluke; it’s a tragically consistent pattern.
95% of students who are hazed do not report it. Shame, fear of retaliation, and perceived loyalty keep victims silent, allowing the cycle of abuse to continue. This is why cases like Leonel Bermudez’s are so critical—they break the silence.

This isn’t just happening “somewhere else.” The same national fraternities that have killed students across the country also have chapters at universities in or near Lincoln County, throughout Georgia, and all across the southeast. Whether your child attends the University of Georgia, Georgia College, Augusta University, or any other institution with an active Greek system, they face these exact risks. Hazing is a national crisis that demands a specialized, aggressive legal response.

Who Is Responsible for Hazing Injuries? Everyone Who Allowed It to Happen

When hazing leaves a student physically or psychologically scarred, or worse, takes their life, concerned parents in Lincoln County often ask: “Who is to blame?” The answer, often, is a network of individuals and powerful institutions that either directly participated, encouraged, or deliberately failed to prevent the abuse. At Attorney911, we believe in holding every responsible party accountable, from the individual perpetrators to the highest levels of the national organization and the university itself. We are not afraid to take on multiple, well-resourced defendants because we pursue justice thoroughly and aggressively.

In the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, we identified and sued a comprehensive list of defendants, demonstrating our strategy of broad accountability:

The Local Chapter and Its Members: The Direct Perpetrators

These are the individuals and the immediate group that orchestrated and carried out the hazing.

The Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi: As the local entity, the chapter directly organized and conducted the hazing activities. They fostered the environment where acts like waterboarding, forced physical exertion, and humiliation were not only tolerated but mandated. This chapter is a primary defendant.
Chapter Officers (President, Pledgemaster, etc.): Individuals in leadership roles within the chapter bear significant responsibility. They actively directed the hazing program, created the schedules, and supervised the activities. The Pi Kappa Phi president and pledgemaster are specifically named in our lawsuit for their direct roles. As the Stone Foltz case shows, individual chapter officers can be held personally liable for millions.
Individual Current Members: Every fraternity member who participated in the hazing, or even witnessed it and failed to intervene or report, can be held liable. Their actions constitute assault, battery, and hazing under state law.
Former Members and Their Spouses: In Leonel’s case, some of the major hazing sessions occurred at the private residence of a former member and his spouse. This expands liability to individuals who may no longer be active students but enabled or permitted illegal and harmful activities on their property. This highlights premises liability on private homes.

The National Fraternity Organization: The Puppet Masters

Behind every local chapter is a powerful national organization with extensive resources, insurance, and the ultimate responsibility to oversee its numerous chapters.

Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc. (National Headquarters): This is the ultimate “deep pocket” defendant. National organizations are liable for failing to adequately supervise their local chapters, for having inadequate anti-hazing policies, or for failing to enforce existing policies. The fact that Pi Kappa Phi National immediately suspended and then dissolved the UH chapter after Leonel’s hospitalization (and before our lawsuit), coupled with the prior death of Andrew Coffey at another Pi Kappa Phi chapter in 2017, strongly demonstrates their knowledge of a systemic problem and their failure to act. KHOU 11 explicitly reported that the national organization failed to enforce rules “despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'” This shows willful blindness and conscious indifference—key elements for punitive damages.
Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation: These entities often own or manage the fraternity houses. They can be held liable if they failed to maintain a safe environment on their property, or if they knew or should have known that hazing was occurring there and did nothing to stop it.

The University: The Gatekeepers Who Failed

Universities have a profound responsibility to protect their students, especially when they host and provide facilities for Greek life.

University of Houston: As Leonel’s case tragically proves, the university itself bears responsibility. UH owned the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place. They had the power to regulate, inspect, suspend, or remove organizations that violate policy or state law. Their failure to exercise this power, especially after a previous hazing hospitalization in 2017 (involving Pi Kappa Alpha), demonstrates a pattern of institutional negligence. The university’s official statement calling the conduct “deeply disturbing” and flagging “potential criminal charges” further solidifies their admission of egregious wrongdoing under their watch.
UH Board of Regents: The governing body of the university system can also be held liable for systemic oversight failures, inadequate policies, or a culture that enables hazing.

Insurers: The True Deep Pockets

Ultimately, the significant monetary damages in these cases often come from insurance policies held by the various defendants.

National Organization’s Liability Insurance: National fraternities carry multi-million dollar insurance policies designed to cover these exact types of lawsuits.
University’s Institutional Insurance: Universities have extensive insurance coverage to protect against various liabilities, including student safety issues.
Homeowner’s/Renter’s Insurance: In cases where hazing occurs off-campus at private residences, the homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies of the individual defendants may provide coverage.
Umbrella Policies: Additional liability policies can provide even greater coverage limits.

As a firm with former insurance defense attorneys like Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, we understand the intricate strategies insurance companies use to minimize payouts. We leverage this insider knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for our clients. We know how to identify every layer of insurance coverage and pursue it aggressively. This is not about bankrupting individual college students; it’s about holding financially capable institutions and their insurers accountable for horrific failures in judgment and oversight. Parents in Lincoln County should know that we have the expertise to navigate this complex network of liability and identify all potential sources of compensation.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof for Lincoln County Victims

When a Lincoln County family endures the nightmare of hazing, whether it results in severe injury or tragic death, the question of “what can we do?” often comes with a sense of helplessness. We are here to tell you that families across America have fought back, and they have won. The multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in hazing cases send an unequivocal message: this abuse will no longer be tolerated, and institutions that enable it will pay a steep price. These precedents demonstrate that the legal system can deliver justice, and they empower families like yours in Lincoln County to pursue maximum compensation.

Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is directly aligned with these national precedents. We demand accountability, and we have a proven track record of securing significant results, just like these landmark cases:

Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021) — Over $10.1 Million

The tragic death of Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge at Bowling Green State University, after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha “Big/Little” event, resulted in over $10.1 million in settlements. The University paid $2.9 million, and Pi Kappa Alpha national, along with individual members, contributed over $7.2 million.

Why this matters to Lincoln County families: This case, where both the university and the fraternity’s national organization paid millions, directly supports our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez. It shows that even in non-death cases involving severe injuries, significant compensation is recoverable. Furthermore, in a separate, later legal action, Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, was ordered in December 2024 to pay an additional $6.5 million in personal liability. This proves that individual perpetrators cannot hide behind their organization; they will be held personally accountable. The same Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity with this deadly record has chapters on campuses near Lincoln County.

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

Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman at LSU, died from acute alcohol poisoning with a BAC of 0.495 after being forced to consume massive amounts of alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta pledge event called “Bible Study.”

Why this matters to Lincoln County families: A jury delivered a powerful $6.1 million verdict to the Gruver family. This demonstrates that when institutions and individuals fail to take responsibility, juries are willing to punish them severely. The case also led to the “Max Gruver Act,” making felony hazing in Louisiana—a legislative response that highlights societal outrage and the legal system’s power to drive change.

Timothy Piazza: Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017) — Over $110 Million (Estimated)

Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old Penn State pledge, died after consuming 18 drinks in 82 minutes as part of a Beta Theta Pi hazing ritual. He fell repeatedly down a flight of stairs, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members notoriously waited 12 hours before calling 911, and the entire horrific sequence was captured on security cameras.

Why this matters to Lincoln County families: This case resulted in a confidential settlement estimated to be over $110 million—the largest hazing settlement on record. The presence of clear, irrefutable evidence (like the security footage) dramatically increases a case’s value. It also resulted in multiple criminal convictions, including involuntary manslaughter, and the passage of the “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law” in Pennsylvania. This case exemplifies that egregious conduct, documented evidence, and institutional cover-ups lead to massive accountability.

Andrew Coffey: Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017) — Same Fraternity as Bermudez Case

Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge at Florida State, died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon at a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” event.

Why this matters to Lincoln County families: This is critical for our client, Leonel Bermudez. It unequivocally proves that Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters had direct knowledge of their chapters engaging in deadly hazing tactics back in 2017. Eight years later, Leonel was hospitalized under eerily similar circumstances, proving Pi Kappa Phi failed to learn or implement effective change. This pattern of knowing disregard for student safety is a powerful argument for punitive damages and underscores a fundamental failure in leadership at the national level.

University of Houston’s Own History: Jared Munoz / Pi Kappa Alpha (2017)

Not only did Pi Kappa Phi have a deadly hazing incident in its past, but the University of Houston itself had a prior hazing hospitalization on its campus. In 2017, Jared Munoz, a Pi Kappa Alpha pledge at UH, was hospitalized with a lacerated spleen due to hazing. A $1 million lawsuit was filed, and a grand jury indicted the national organization.

Why this matters to Lincoln County families: This proves that the University of Houston knew hazing was a serious, life-threatening problem on its campus. They had a direct warning in 2017. Despite this, Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized eight years later under similar circumstances, in a fraternity house owned by the university. This demonstrates a systemic institutional failure to protect students, a failure that parents sending their children to schools in or near Lincoln County should be aware of.

Total Impact on Hazing Cases

These national hazing deaths and injuries have led to over $136 million in documented awards and settlements. They have also spurred legislative changes like the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania, and Collin’s Law in Ohio. This shows that when families fight back, it not only secures justice for their loved ones but also creates a safer environment for future students.

For families in Lincoln County, these cases are not abstract legal anecdotes. They are concrete proof that:

Hazing Litigation Wins: Families afflicted by hazing can and do receive multi-million dollar compensation.
Universities and National Fraternities Pay: These institutions, and their insurers, are the ultimate sources of these large payouts.
Individual Accountability is Real: Perpetrators can face significant personal financial and criminal consequences.
Hazing Culture Can Be Changed: Legal action creates powerful incentives for institutions to clean up their acts.

If your child has been subjected to hazing, please know that your fight is not unprecedented. We have the expertise to apply the lessons and strategies from these landmark cases to your situation, aggressively pursuing the justice and compensation your family deserves, regardless of where in Lincoln County, Georgia, or the nation you reside.

Texas Law Protects You, Lincoln County Families: Consent is Never a Defense for Hazing

For parents in Lincoln County, a crucial aspect of hazing cases is understanding the legal landscape that protects your child. In Texas, where our firm is based and currently litigating the groundbreaking Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, the law is clear: hazing is illegal, and the victim’s “consent” is explicitly not a defense. This is a powerful legal shield against one of the most common and manipulative arguments made by fraternities.

Texas Hazing Laws: Prohibiting Abuse, Protecting Students

The Texas Education Code, specifically sections 37.151 through 37.157, outlines a comprehensive anti-hazing framework. While we detail the Texas law, most other states have similar statutes. Furthermore, federal civil rights claims and general negligence principles apply nationwide, allowing us to pursue cases regardless of state lines.

Let’s break down the key protections under Texas law:

1. Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Broad Protection Against All Forms of Abuse

Texas law defines hazing broadly, encompassing virtually any act that endangers a student’s mental or physical health for the purpose of joining or maintaining membership in an organization. The categories explicitly include:

Physical Brutality: Such as whipping, beating, striking (like being struck with wooden paddles in Leonel’s case), branding, or placing harmful substances on the body.
Physical Risk of Harm: Activities causing sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements (like stripping in cold weather), confinement in small spaces, or calisthenics (like the 500 squats and extreme workouts Leonel endured) that subject a student to unreasonable risk of harm or adversely affect their health.
Forced Consumption: Requiring the consumption of food (like eating hot dogs and peppercorns until vomiting), liquids (like milk, or excessive alcohol), drugs, or other substances that pose an unreasonable risk to health.
Activities Violating Penal Code: Any act that forces a student to violate criminal law.
Coerced Intoxication: Forcing a student to consume alcohol to the point of intoxication.

As demonstrated by the egregious details of Leonel Bermudez’s hazing, his experience met multiple elements of this statutory definition, strengthening our ability to prove hazing occurred. The law clearly covers the brutal tactics used, and those tactics are not isolated to Texas; they are replicated wherever hazing thrives.

2. Criminal Penalties for Hazing (§ 37.152): Hazing is a Crime

Hazing is not just a campus policy violation; it’s a crime. Individuals who engage in hazing can face:

Class B Misdemeanors: For engaging in hazing, soliciting or aiding it, or having firsthand knowledge and failing to report it. Punishments can include up to 180 days in jail and up to a $2,000 fine.
Class A Misdemeanors: If hazing causes serious bodily injury—like Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure. This carries up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
State Jail Felonies: If hazing causes death. This can result in 180 days to two years in state jail and up to a $10,000 fine.

The fact that Leonel suffered serious bodily injury means that individuals involved in his hazing could face Class A Misdemeanor charges. The University of Houston spokesperson even publicly acknowledged “potential criminal charges,” emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Civil lawsuits often run parallel to criminal investigations, and a successful criminal prosecution can provide strong evidence for a civil claim.

3. Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Holding Groups Accountable

Organizations like fraternities and their national chapters can be held directly liable if they condone, encourage, or have officers or members who commit hazing. Penalties can include fines up to $10,000, denial of permission to operate on campus, and forfeiture of property. This is why we sued not just the local Pi Kappa Phi chapter, but also the national organization, ensuring comprehensive accountability for the groups that enable this dangerous culture.

4. The Indisputable Truth: Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154)

This is perhaps the most critical legal protection for hazing victims and their families in Lincoln County. Texas law explicitly states:

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

This single clause demolishes the common defense that hazing victims “knew what they were getting into,” “could have left at any time,” or “consented to participate.” Our Texas legislators understood that true consent cannot exist in an environment of extreme peer pressure, manipulation, and threats of social ostracism or physical violence. You cannot consent to being assaulted or tortured. This legal truth is a powerful tool in dismantling the defense’s arguments and ensuring justice for your child.

5. University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Transparency is Demanded

Universities are legally mandated to report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days of becoming aware of them. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor. This provision encourages transparency and helps track hazing trends, providing another layer of accountability for institutions.

Beyond State Law: Civil Liability Theories

Beyond the criminal and statutory penalties, civil lawsuits allow families in Lincoln County to recover monetary compensation for the immense physical, emotional, and financial damages caused by hazing. Our firm leverages a range of civil liability theories, including:

Negligence: Holding universities, national organizations, and individuals accountable for failing to exercise reasonable care in preventing hazing, directly causing injuries.
Premises Liability: When hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by universities or housing corporations (like the UH-owned fraternity house), they can be liable for dangerous conditions.
Negligent Supervision: Arguing that national organizations failed to properly oversee their chapters, and universities failed to supervise Greek life, allowing hazing to proliferate.
Assault and Battery: Direct claims against individual perpetrators for intentional harmful or offensive contact.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For extreme and outrageous conduct
- (like waterboarding) that causes severe emotional trauma.
Vicarious Liability: Holding national organizations and universities responsible for the actions of their members or student groups.

These civil claims exist in virtually every state, meaning that even if your child was hazed outside of Texas, they have robust legal protections. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) further enable us to pursue justice against national fraternities and universities across the country, ensuring that families in Lincoln County have access to the highest level of legal representation.

The law is on your side, Lincoln County families. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Why Attorney911: Your Unfair Advantage in Lincoln County Hazing Litigation

When your child is harmed by hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a legal commando team. You need staunch advocates who possess not only deep legal expertise but also an intimate understanding of the systems you’re fighting against. Attorney911 is that team. We are not just another personal injury firm; we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™ with a specialized focus on aggressive hazing litigation nationwide, and we are ready to fight for families in Lincoln County.

Our Battle-Tested Attorneys: Ralph P. Manginello and Lupe Eleno Peña

Our firm is led by two exceptional attorneys, Ralph P. Manginello and Lupe Eleno Peña, both men with unique backgrounds that provide an extraordinary advantage in hazing cases.

Ralph P. Manginello: The Strategist with 25+ Years of Courtroom Firepower

Former Insurance Defense Attorney: Ralph spent the early part of his career defending insurance companies. This invaluable experience means he knows their playbook inside and out. He anticipates their every move, understands their strategies for minimizing payouts, and knows how to dismantle their defenses to maximize your recovery. This insider knowledge is a critical “unfair advantage” for our clients in Lincoln County.
Federal Court Admissions & Dual-State Bar (Texas & New York): Ralph is admitted to practice in U.S. District Courts and is licensed in both Texas and New York. This gives us the authority and flexibility to pursue national fraternities and universities wherever they operate, transcending geographical boundaries. For Lincoln County families affected by hazing, this means we can take on national organizations with headquarters or significant operations far beyond Georgia.
Multi-Billion Dollar Mass Tort Experience: Ralph was deeply involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, a multi-billion dollar mass tort case involving 15 deaths and over 180 injuries. This demonstrates his capacity to handle incredibly complex, high-stakes litigation against massive corporate defendants—the same kind of power you face when going up against national fraternities and major universities. This experience is directly transferable to hazing cases, which often involve systemic failures and powerful organizations.
Journalism Background: With a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Texas at Austin, Ralph is trained to investigate, uncover facts, and tell compelling stories. In hazing cases, where institutions try to hide the truth, this investigative prowess is invaluable. He crafts narratives that resonate with juries, laying bare the truth about what happened to your child.
Hazing-Specific Expertise: Ralph has direct experience litigating hazing cases, including those involving Kappa Sigma fraternity, Texas A&M University, rhabdomyolysis injuries, and wrongful death. He is deeply immersed in the unique legal and cultural aspects of hazing litigation, and he is pursuing Leonel Bermudez’s case with this specific knowledge.
Personal Connection: As a father of three and a youth sports coach, Ralph understands the pressures young people face and the devastating impact that abuse can have on families. He approaches every case with empathy and a fierce commitment to protecting young lives.

Lupe Eleno Peña: The Insider Who Knows the Defense’s Every Move (He is Male, not Female)

Former National Insurance Defense Attorney: Before joining Attorney911, Lupe Peña worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a prominent national insurance defense firm. This means he sat on the other side of the table, defending insurance companies and corporate defendants across a multitude of practice areas. He learned their strategies for claim valuation, delay tactics, and denial methods firsthand.
Insider Knowledge Applied for Victims: Now, Lupe uses that precise insider knowledge to dismantle the defenses of insurance companies and maximize recovery for our clients. He knows their playbooks, their weaknesses, and how to effectively counteract their attempts to lowball victims. This is strategic battlefield intelligence from inside the “enemy’s war room” that directly benefits hazing victims in Lincoln County.
Wrongful Death & Dram Shop Expertise: Lupe has extensive experience in wrongful death cases and dram shop liability (holding establishments accountable for over-serving alcohol). This is critically relevant to hazing cases, especially those involving forced alcohol consumption and tragic fatalities. He understands how to build a case that proves negligence and demands accountability for lives lost.
Finance Background & Business Acumen: With a B.B.A. in International Business and prior experience in finance, Lupe brings a keen understanding of economic damages, future earning capacity calculations, and corporate structures – essential when challenging complex national fraternities and large universities.
Bilingual (Fluent Spanish): Lupe is fluent in Spanish, enabling our firm to provide comprehensive legal services to Spanish-speaking clients in Lincoln County and beyond, ensuring no family faces language barriers in their pursuit of justice.
Third-Generation Texan: With deep Texas roots, Lupe understands the community and values that resonate with families throughout the state and region.

The Attorney911 Approach: First, Fast, Decisive for Lincoln County

Our philosophy is simple: when a legal emergency hits – whether it’s on a Texas highway, a Lincoln County campus, or a fraternity house anywhere in America – we move FIRST, FAST, and DECISIVELY.

Immediate Aggression: We don’t wait. As soon as we take a hazing case, we begin aggressive evidence preservation, investigation, and strategic planning. This is crucial given the short statutes of limitations and the rapid disappearance of evidence.
Data-Driven Litigation: We maintain one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations in Texas, complete with EINs, legal names, addresses, and insurance structures. We don’t guess who is responsible; we know exactly who to sue. This “Watchdog” database allows us to move with unparalleled precision.
Nationwide Reach, Local Service: While headquartered in Houston, we serve hazing victims in Lincoln County, Georgia, and across America. Our federal court authority, dual-state bar licenses, remote consultation technology, and willingness to travel ensure that distance is never a barrier to justice. We will come to Lincoln County for depositions, client meetings, and trials when needed.

For families in Lincoln County, choosing Attorney911 means choosing a firm that:

Is Actively Fighting Now: Our current $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez proves we are in the trenches, not just theorizing about hazing litigation.
Knows the Opposition: Our attorneys’ former insurance defense backgrounds give us a unique edge.
Has the Experience to Win Big: From multi-billion dollar mass torts to multi-million dollar hazing settlements, our track record speaks for itself.
Treats You Like Family: We are dedicated to providing empathetic, clear communication and treating your family’s trauma with the respect and care it deserves.
Offers No Upfront Cost: Our contingency fee model means you pay nothing unless and until we win your case. This removes financial barriers, allowing every family in Lincoln County to access top-tier legal representation.

If a university, fraternity, or insurance company tries to silence hazing victims in Lincoln County, we take it to court. We fight with real cases, real data, and real results.

What to Do Right Now, Lincoln County Families: Immediate Steps After Hazing

The moments immediately following a hazing incident can be chaotic, frightening, and confusing. For families in Lincoln County, your priority is your child’s safety and health. But acting quickly and decisively to preserve evidence is equally critical for any potential legal action. Hazing victims often feel ashamed, intimidated, or unsure of who to turn to. We understand these very human reactions. That’s why we’ve outlined clear, actionable steps you can take right now to protect your child and their future.

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Attention

Your child’s well-being comes first.

Remove Your Child from the Situation: If they are still in a hazing environment, get them out immediately. Their safety is paramount.
Seek Medical Care: Even if injuries seem minor, or if your child is reluctant, it is crucial to seek professional medical attention.
- Go to the Emergency Room: If there are any signs of injury, extreme exhaustion, confusion, or severe emotional distress, go to the nearest emergency room. Leonel Bermudez’s situation rapidly deteriorated, leading to acute kidney failure. Do not wait.
- Document Everything: Ensure all medical professionals are aware the injuries are hazing-related. Medical records are foundational evidence. Insist on full documentation, including lab results, imaging, and detailed notes on symptoms and treatment. If your child is passing brown urine, as Leonel Bermudez was, make sure it is noted immediately.
- Mental Health Support: Hazing inflicts deep psychological wounds. Seek counseling or therapy from a licensed mental health professional. These records will also be crucial for documenting emotional distress and trauma like PTSD, anxiety, or depression.

Step 2: Preserve ALL Evidence – Act Like a Detective

Hazing is often conducted in secret, and perpetrators will try to destroy evidence. You must be proactive.

Photos and Videos: “Take more pictures than you think you need to.” (Ralph Manginello)
- Injuries: Photograph all physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, rashes, swelling) immediately and at various stages of healing. If hospitalized, take pictures in the hospital bed, of IVs, monitors, and any medical equipment.
- Locations: Take photos or videos of the hazing location, if safe and accessible (e.g., fraternity house, common areas, specific rooms, outdoor settings). Note any relevant details.
- Physical Evidence: If any objects were used in the hazing (e.g., wooden paddles, buckets for forced consumption, fanny packs with degrading contents), document them with photos.
Digital Communications: “Screenshots count.”
- Text Messages: Preserve all text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat messages, Instagram DMs, Facebook Messenger chats, or any social media communications related to the hazing. This includes direct instructions, threats, derogatory comments, photos, or videos.
- Group Chats: Hazing often happens in group chats. Screenshot entire conversations, noting dates and participants. Assume nothing is deleted.
- Emails: Save any emails related to pledge activities, schedules, or hazing instructions.
Witness Information:
- Identify Others: Get the names and contact information of other pledges, fraternity members, or anyone who witnessed the hazing or its aftermath. Even if they are reluctant to come forward immediately, this information is invaluable.
Documents:
- Pledge Manuals/Schedules: Any physical documents, schedules, “rules” handed out to pledges.
- Records of Payment: Receipts for dues, fees, or anything paid to the fraternity or university that implies membership.
Financial Records: Collect medical bills, receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to injury, and documentation of lost wages if your child missed work.
Academic Records: Gather fall-off in grades, dropped classes, or any academic impact the hazing may have caused.

CRITICAL: DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING. Even if it seems irrelevant, let your attorney decide its value. Deleting evidence can damage a case.

Step 3: Avoid Common Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case – Protect Against Manipulation

DO NOT Talk to the Fraternity/Sorority, University, or Their Lawyers: They are not on your side. Their goal is to protect their institution, not your child. Any statements you give can be used against you. Do not sign anything from the organization.
DO NOT Post About the Incident on Social Media: Anything you post can be twisted and used by the defense to undermine your claim. This includes photos, comments, or even showing yourself having fun, which opponents might use to claim your distress isn’t genuine.
DO NOT Confront Perpetrators or the Organization Directly: This can escalate the situation, destroy evidence, or open you up to further intimidation.
DO NOT Give Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters or university officials may try to get you to give a recorded statement. Politely decline and tell them your attorney will be in touch. They are trained to elicit information that can hurt your case.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Hazing Litigation Attorney IMMEDIATELY

Time is critical. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.

The Statute of Limitations: In Texas, and many other states like Georgia, there is a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases. This means you generally have only two years from the date of injury or death to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to sue forever. Don’t let fear or delay steal your chance for justice.
Evidence Disappears: With each passing day, digital evidence can be deleted, witnesses’ memories fade, and physical evidence can be cleaned up or destroyed.
Complex Litigation: Hazing cases are complex, involving multiple defendants, layers of law, and powerful institutions. You need a legal team with specialized experience to navigate this.

CALL US IMMEDIATELY at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our consultation is free and confidential. We will listen to your story, assess your case, and guide you through every step. We offer video consultations for Lincoln County families, and we will travel to you for depositions, meetings, and trials as needed. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

Remember, you might feel isolated, but you are not alone. Our firm is actively fighting these battles right now. By taking these immediate steps, you are protecting your child’s rights and laying the groundwork for holding those responsible accountable.

Texas Law Protects You: A Deeper Look at Your Rights in Lincoln County

While our firm is headquartered in Texas, the principles of justice and accountability we champion apply equally to families in Lincoln County, Georgia. It’s important for you to understand the specific laws designed to combat hazing, both in our home state and how they generally reflect protections available elsewhere.

The Texas Education Code § 37.151-37.157, often referred to as the Anti-Hazing Law, provides comprehensive protections and outlines severe penalties for those who engage in or allow hazing.

Defining Hazing: More Than Just “Pranks”

Under Texas law, hazing is not merely a rude prank. It is legally defined as:

Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off campus, by anyone acting alone or with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in an organization.
The act must endanger the mental or physical health or safety of the student.

This definition is crucial because it goes beyond physical injury, recognizing the profound psychological damage hazing inflicts. Importantly, it covers actions both on and off campus, so even if hazing occurs at a private residence in Lincoln County, it’s still illegal. It applies to fraternities, sororities, sports teams, clubs, and any student organization.

Prohibited Hazing Activities (Examples from the Statute):

The Texas statute explicitly lists types of acts that constitute hazing, many of which were inflicted upon Leonel Bermudez:

Physical Brutality: This includes whipping, beating, striking (like the use of wooden paddles in Leonel’s case), branding, electronic shocking, or placing harmful substances on the body.
Acts Endangering Health: This covers sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements (such as forcing students to strip in cold weather and spraying them with water), confinement in small spaces, or calisthenics. These include “calisthenics, or other similar activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.” This directly applies to Leonel’s 500 squats and extreme workouts that led to rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure.
Forced Consumption: This includes forcing a student to consume any food, liquid (like the milk Leonel was forced to drink), alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or other substance that poses an unreasonable risk of harm. This is a common and deadly hazing method, evident in the numerous alcohol poisoning deaths nationwide.
Coerced Criminal Acts: Requiring a student to perform a duty or task that violates the Penal Code.
Coerced Intoxication: Specifically prohibits coercing a student to consume alcohol to a level a reasonable person would believe leads to intoxication.

When national organizations and universities claim they have anti-hazing policies, this is the legal definition they are supposed to be enforcing. Our lawsuit asserts that they clearly failed to do so.

Criminal Penalties: Hazing is a Serious Crime

Texas law provides for escalating criminal charges based on the severity of the hazing:

Class B Misdemeanor: For merely participating in hazing, soliciting or encouraging it, or even having firsthand knowledge and failing to report it.
Class A Misdemeanor: For hazing that causes “serious bodily injury.” This applies directly to cases like Leonel Bermudez’s, where kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis are clearly serious bodily injuries, carrying potential jail time of up to a year.
State Jail Felony: For hazing that causes “death,” which can lead to months or years in state jail.

These criminal provisions provide essential teeth to anti-hazing efforts. A criminal conviction can strengthen a civil case by establishing wrongdoing, often providing public records and testimony that are invaluable to victims seeking compensation.

Organizational Liability: Holding Groups, Not Just Individuals, Accountable

The law also targets the organizations themselves. An organization commits an offense if it “condones or encourages hazing or if an officer or any combination of members, pledges, or alumni of the organization commits or assists in the commission of hazing.” This means the local chapter, the national organization, and even alumni groups can face legal consequences, including fines and the loss of the right to operate on campus. This allows us to pursue comprehensive accountability beyond just the individual perpetrators.

The Critical “No Consent” Provision: Your Child Cannot Agree to Be Abused

Perhaps the most pivotal aspect of Texas hazing law, and a similar principle exists in many other states, is articulated in § 37.154: “Consent is NOT a Defense.”

The statute states unequivocally: “It is not a defense to prosecution for an offense under this subchapter that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

This means that any argument from fraternity members or their legal teams claiming that Leonel, or your child in Lincoln County, “agreed to participate,” “knew what they were getting into,” or “could have left at any time” holds no legal weight. The law recognizes the immense power dynamics at play in hazing, where social pressure, psychological manipulation, and fear of ostracism negate true consent.

Reporting Requirements: Forcing Transparency from Institutions

Texas law mandates that educational institutions report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days of becoming aware of them. This is a Class B Misdemeanor if violated. This provision ensures that institutions cannot simply sweep hazing under the rug; they are legally obligated to disclose it, fostering greater transparency and allowing patterns of abuse to be identified.

Civil Liability: Your Path to Compensation

Beyond criminal penalties, civil lawsuits are the primary mechanism for victims and families to seek monetary compensation for their losses. We pursue various civil claims against all responsible parties:

Negligence: This is the most common civil claim. We argue that institutions (universities, national fraternities) and individuals had a duty of care to protect students, they breached that duty through their actions or inactions, this breach caused injury (like Leonel Bermudez’s kidney failure), and these injuries resulted in damages.
Premises Liability: If hazing occurred on property controlled by the university or a fraternity housing corporation, they can be held liable for creating an unsafe environment. This is a key component of our strategy against the University of Houston, which owned the Pi Kappa Phi house.
Negligent Supervision: This theory holds national organizations accountable for their failure to adequately supervise local chapters, and universities accountable for failing to properly oversee Greek life on their campuses.
Assault and Battery: Direct claims against individual perpetrators for intentional harmful or offensive physical contact.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For egregious conduct, like waterboarding, that causes severe psychological trauma.
Wrongful Death: If hazing results in a fatality, families can file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages for their profound loss.

For Lincoln County families, understanding these legal protections is the first step toward reclaiming power and seeking justice. These laws, coupled with evidence of egregious conduct and institutional failures, create a powerful foundation for a successful lawsuit. We will use every legal tool available to ensure that those who inflict or enable hazing in Lincoln County are held fully accountable under the law.

What Attorney911 Can Do for You: Aggressive Hazing Representation for Lincoln County

When addressing the profound trauma of hazing, families in Lincoln County need more than legal answers; they need hope, resolve, and a powerful legal team willing to fight relentlessly on their behalf. Attorney911 offers exactly that. We are Legal Emergency Lawyers™ with a specialized focus on aggressive hazing litigation nationwide, positioning us as an essential resource for Lincoln County families seeking justice.

Our Proven Expertise for Lincoln County Families

Direct Hazing Litigation Experience: We are currently battling Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston in a $10 million lawsuit. This is not hypothetical; it is active, real-world experience, and the tactics we employ there are precisely what we will bring to your case. Our expertise includes handling cases involving rhabdomyolysis and severe physical injuries directly resulting from hazing.
Insider Knowledge from Former Insurance Defense: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are former insurance defense attorneys. This means we understand how insurance companies—the ultimate “deep pockets” in these cases—value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize payouts. We leverage this insider knowledge to anticipate their moves, negotiate from a position of strength, and maximize your compensation.
Capacity to Take on Large Institutions: Our experience includes multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation (like the BP Texas City explosion). This demonstrates our proven capability to fight and win against powerful corporate defendants and institutions like national fraternities and major universities, regardless of their resources or legal teams. This is the firepower Lincoln County families need.
Nationwide Reach with Local Agility: While our headquarters are in Houston, Texas, our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) allow us to pursue cases against national organizations in any jurisdiction. We utilize remote consultation technologies and are committed to traveling to Lincoln County for depositions, meetings, and trials whenever your case demands it. Distance is never a barrier to justice.
Data-Driven Investigation: We don’t guess who is responsible. Our extensive database of over 1,400 Greek-related organizations across 25 Texas metropolitan areas, including addresses, EINs, and corporate structures, provides us with unparalleled intelligence. We track national brands across campuses, identify house corporations, and understand the intricate layers of liability. This means we know exactly who we need to sue and the best way to pursue them.
Unwavering Advocate for Victims: We believe that hazing is nothing short of abuse and torture. Our commitment is not just legal; it’s personal. As Ralph Manginello, a father of three, has repeatedly stated, he understands what’s at stake when a child is harmed. We approach each Lincoln County family with warmth, empathy, and a fierce dedication to securing justice for their loved one.

Our Approach to Securing Justice for Lincoln County

When you choose Attorney911, you choose a comprehensive, aggressive strategy tailored to the unique complexities of hazing cases:

Thorough Investigation: We immediately launch a meticulous investigation. This includes securing medical records (like Leonel Bermudez’s four-day hospitalization records, showing rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure), collecting digital evidence (text messages, social media posts that show instructions for hazing activities), identifying witnesses, and uncovering any prior incidents of hazing at the chapter or university.
Identifying All Liable Parties: We cast a wide net to identify every individual and institution that bears responsibility. This includes the local chapter, individual fraternity members (including officers and those who hosted events), the national organization, the university, its governing bodies (like the Board of Regents), and any associated housing corporations.
Leveraging Precedent-Setting Cases: We use the multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements from cases like Stone Foltz ($10.1M+), Maxwell Gruver ($6.1M verdict), and Timothy Piazza ($110M+ estimated) to strengthen your demands and demonstrate the proven value of these cases. The fact that Pi Kappa Phi has a prior death (Andrew Coffey in 2017) powerfully reinforces the argument for gross negligence and punitive damages. Our current lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is not just an active example, but already setting precedent for the egregious nature of these cases.
Building a Strong Narrative: With Ralph Manginello’s journalism background, we excel at uncovering facts and crafting compelling narratives that resonate in courtrooms. We expose the truth that institutions try to bury, painting a clear picture of the abuse your child endured.
Aggressive Negotiation & Litigation: We approach negotiations with the full weight of our trial experience. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, giving us maximum leverage. If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we are fully prepared to take your case to a jury, as we are doing now in the Harris County Civil District Court.
Advocacy Beyond the Courtroom: We believe in systemic change. Our work often extends to advocating for new legislation and raising public awareness, continuing the legacy of victims like Stone Foltz, Max Gruver, and Timothy Piazza, whose cases led to “Collin’s Law,” the “Max Gruver Act,” and the “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.”

For families in Lincoln County, facing off against powerful institutions and their endless resources can feel overwhelming. But with Attorney911, you gain experienced allies who know the terrain, possess the skills to win, and are deeply committed to achieving justice for your child.

What to Do Right Now, Lincoln County: Your Path to Justice Begins Here

If you’re reading this, deeply concerned about your child or a loved one who has been affected by hazing, please know that the time to act is now. Delay can jeopardize your legal rights. For families in Lincoln County, Georgia, reaching out is the critical first step toward healing, accountability, and preventing this from happening to another student.

You Have Legal Rights. We Are Fighting This Fight Right Now.

Our firm is aggressively litigating the $10 million Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit in Houston. This isn’t theoretical; it’s happening right now, and it demonstrates precisely what we can do for your family. Leonel Bermudez was waterboarded, forced to eat until he vomited, subjected to brutal physical punishment, and hospitalized with kidney failure—all at a fraternity chapter whose national organization has a history of deadly hazing. This level of extreme abuse demands severe accountability, and we are delivering it.

For your family in Lincoln County, we bring the same aggressive, data-driven, and relentless representation. We understand that speaking out can be daunting, but your courage can protect others and secure the justice your child deserves.

Lincoln County Families: Call Now for a FREE Consultation

There is no cost to talk to us about your situation. We offer a free, confidential consultation to discuss what happened, evaluate your legal options, and explain how we can help.

📞 Your Legal Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911

Call Us 24/7: Hazing emergencies don’t keep business hours. Our lines are open around the clock to provide immediate guidance.
Email Us: You can also reach our managing partner directly at ralph@atty911.com.
Visit Our Website: Learn more about our firm and our commitment to justice at attorney911.com.

We Work on Contingency: You Pay $0 Upfront

We understand that the last thing you need right now is another financial burden. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means:

You pay absolutely nothing upfront.
We only get paid if and when we win your case.
Our fees are a percentage of the compensation we recover for you. If we don’t win, you don’t owe us any attorney fees.

This commitment removes financial barriers, ensuring that every family in Lincoln County, regardless of their financial situation, can access premier legal representation against powerful national organizations and universities.

What Lincoln County Hazing Victims and Families Should Do Right Now:

Get Medical Attention, Immediately: If your child has not yet received professional medical care, secure it now. Document everything. Medical records are critical evidence. Even if injuries seem minor, some can worsen or have delayed onset, like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis.
Preserve ALL Evidence: Screenshots of every text, GroupMe chat, Snapchat, Instagram DM, email, photos of injuries (at all stages of healing), hazing locations, and any physical items. Do NOT delete anything.
DO NOT Talk to the Fraternity, University, or Their Lawyers: They are not on your side. Any statements can be used against you. Direct all inquiries to your attorney.
DO NOT Post on Social Media About the Incident: Anything you post can be used by the defense to undermine your case. Stay silent online until your case is resolved.
Call Us Immediately: The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Georgia, like in Texas, is typically two years. Evidence disappears quickly. Witnesses’ memories fade. Early intervention is key to building a strong case.

We Serve Lincoln County and Hazing Victims Nationwide

Although we are headquartered in Houston with offices in Austin and Beaumont, Texas, our reach extends far beyond state lines. Hazing is a national crisis, and we are equipped to fight for victims wherever they are:

Federal Court Authority: We are admitted to practice in U.S. District Courts, enabling us to pursue cases against national fraternities and universities in federal jurisdiction, which can often be advantageous.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello’s licenses in both Texas and New York provide strategic advantages when litigating against national organizations that frequently have operations or headquarters in these states.
Video Consultations: For your convenience, Lincoln County families can connect with us directly via secure video consultations.
Travel Commitment: We are prepared to travel to Lincoln County for depositions, client meetings, and trials whenever the demands of your case require our presence. Your location will not limit your access to aggressive and experienced legal representation.

We represent victims of hazing in fraternities, sororities, sports teams, marching bands, ROTC programs, clubs, and any other student organization where abuse is disguised as “initiation.”

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

We know Leonel Bermudez was not the only one. We know another pledge collapsed and lost consciousness just weeks before Leonel’s hospitalization. We know others were waterboarded, forced to eat, and physically abused.

If you or a loved one were also subjected to this horrific hazing by Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston, or if you witnessed it, please contact us. You have rights, and your voice is crucial. As Lupe Peña 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.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com | attorney911.com