If you’re reading this in Monroe County, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went off to college, hoping to find camaraderie and build lifelong friendships. Instead, they were subjected to brutal hazing, psychological torture, and physical abuse. We understand what you’re going through – the anger, the fear, the confusion. We’re here to help families in Monroe County fight back against the fraternities, soror and universities that allow this senseless violence to continue.

Hazing is not a harmless tradition. It is a crime that destroys lives and families, and it’s happening right here in Georgia and across the nation, often at institutions your children might attend. Just weeks ago, our firm, Attorney911, filed a landmark $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individuals responsible for the horrific hazing of Leonel Bermudez. His story is a chilling reminder of how dangerous Greek life can be, and it’s a story Monroe County parents need to hear.

Perhaps your child attends a Georgia university like Mercer University in nearby Macon, or perhaps they’re at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia Tech in Atlanta, or Georgia Southern University in Statesboro. Many students from Monroe County pursue higher education at these and other institutions across the state and beyond. The same national fraternities and sororities with problematic histories operate at these campuses. The same institutional negligence that allowed hazing to thrive at the University of Houston can exist at these universities as well. We want Monroe County families to know that there are attorneys who will aggressively represent victims and pursue justice, no matter how powerful the defendants may be. We are those attorneys.

The Hazing Crisis: Why Monroe County Families Need to Be Informed

Hazing is a pervasive problem that extends far beyond the playful pranks of movies and pop culture. It is systematic abuse designed to break down a person’s dignity and force submission. While many view hazing as a rite of passage, the reality is far darker, often involving alcohol poisoning, severe physical injury, psychological trauma, and even death. In Monroe County, parents send their children off to college with hopes of academic achievement and personal growth, not hospitalizations or worse due to fraternity misconduct.

Statistics paint a grim picture: over half of all students in Greek organizations experience hazing, and tragically, there has been at least one hazing-related death in the United States every year since 2000. These aren’t isolated incidents. They are symptoms of a deeply entrenched culture that institutions and national organizations often fail to adequately address until it’s too late. The emotional and physical scars left by hazing can last a lifetime, manifesting as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and chronic health issues. For families in Monroe County, understanding this crisis is the first step toward protecting your children and holding those responsible accountable.

The Landmark Case: Attorney911 Fights for Leonel Bermudez in a $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit

Monroe County families, the case of Leonel Bermudez is proof that we are not just talking about hazing; we are actively fighting it in the courts right now. This is not a hypothetical scenario; this is a live, ongoing case that demonstrates our aggressive, data-driven approach to hazing litigation. What happened to Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston is a stark warning, and the same horrifying incidents could happen at institutions your children attend, whether they are in Houston, in Georgia, or anywhere else in the country.

This is what hazing looks like. This is what we do about it.

Our steadfast attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, filed a $10 million lawsuit on November 21, 2025, in Harris County Civil District Court. This lawsuit names a comprehensive list of defendants, including Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (specifically its Beta Nu Chapter), Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, the Beta Nu Housing Corporation, the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity members, including the chapter president, pledgemaster, and those who facilitated the abuse. Even a former member and his spouse are defendants, as hazing sessions reportedly occurred at their residence.

Media Coverage Confirms the Horrors:

The severity of this case has garnered significant media attention, with major Houston news outlets reporting on the lawsuit:

• ABC13 Houston: Reported on November 21-22, 2025, with the headline, “Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges.” They provided direct quotes from our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena.
• KHOU 11: Covered the story on November 21, 2025, stating, “$10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations.” This report was the first to name Leonel Bermudez as the plaintiff and highlighted that the hazing occurred in a “University-owned fraternity house.”
• Houston Chronicle: Published their account on November 22, 2025, detailing “UH fraternity hazing lawsuit” and expanding on the specific physical exercises forced upon the pledges.
• Houston Public Media: On November 24, 2025, their article, “University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing,” confirmed the $10 million figure and elaborated on Leonel’s status as a “ghost rush.”

Even Pi Kappa Phi National’s own website acknowledged the situation, stating on November 21, 2025, they had “Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston” due to “violations.”

Leonel Bermudez: A “Ghost Rush” Tortured Before Even Enrolling

Leonel Bermudez was not even an enrolled University of Houston student when this nightmare unfolded. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member planning to transfer to UH for the upcoming semester. He accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi on September 16, 2025. What followed was seven weeks of systematic, dehumanizing abuse.

Ralph Manginello told ABC13, “When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure.”

Lupe Pena emphasized the broader goal of this lawsuit to ABC13: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Monroe County parents, this story sends a chilling message: hazing can happen to anyone, especially those eager to belong, even before they officially step foot on campus.

The Unthinkable Hazing Activities:

The lawsuit details a horrifying catalog of abuse, including:

• Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” sprayed in the face while doing calisthenics. Houston Public Media starkly noted, “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.”
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was compelled to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited, then forced to continue running sprints while physically distressed, even lying in vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: This included over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. Pledges were forced to recite the fraternity creed under threat of expulsion, all while being “struck with wooden paddles.” Leonel was pushed so far that he collapsed, unable to stand without help.
• Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Pledges were forced to strip to their underwear in cold weather. Leonel had to carry a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature. In one incident, another pledge was “hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.”
• Sleep Deprivation: Forced early morning drives for fraternity members led to extreme exhaustion.

The Grave Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

This brutal hazing left Leonel Bermudez hospitalized for four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. Rhabdomyolysis is a dangerous condition where muscle tissue breaks down, releasing a damaging protein (myoglobin) into the blood, which can overwhelm the kidneys. Leonel’s mother observed a classic symptom: he was “passing brown urine,” a clear sign of myoglobin in the urine. This condition, if not treated aggressively, can lead to permanent kidney damage or death.

Our firm has extensive experience with rhabdomyolysis cases resulting from hazing; Ralph Manginello, in particular, has specialized expertise in this area. We understand the immediate and long-term implications of such an injury.

Institutional Responses: Guilt and Complicity

The responses from the defendants reveal a clear pattern of awareness and attempts to mitigate liability:

• University of Houston’s Statement: A UH spokesperson told Houston Public Media that “The events investigated are deeply disturbing and and represent a clear violation of our community standards.” They further noted the University’s coordination with law enforcement and the “potential criminal charges” for those responsible. This is an admission against interest, acknowledging the severity and illegality of the acts.
• Pi Kappa Phi National’s Statement: Their website announced the closure of the Beta Nu Chapter “effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This closure occurred seven days before our lawsuit was filed, indicating their immediate awareness and an attempt to control the narrative. Their statement concluded with, “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time,” a stark indication of their lack of genuine remorse.

KHOU 11 reported that the national organization and housing corporation “failed to enforce anti-hazing rules and policies despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'” This demonstrates a systemic failure and conscious indifference to the well-being of pledges like Leonel.

Monroe County parents, these statements reveal that both the university and the national fraternity had knowledge they should have acted upon. They chose to protect themselves rather than the students under their care.

Why This Case Matters to Monroe County Families:

1. Proof That “Tradition” is Torture: Leonel’s story shatters the myth of harmless hazing. This is systematic abuse. It is not confined to one campus; the same fraternities operate near Monroe County, including at Mercer University, Georgia Military College in Milledgeville, or Fort Valley State University, where students from Monroe County might attend.
2. Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where hazing occurred. Universities near Monroe County, whatever their names, have the same power and responsibility to protect students, and the same liability when they fail.
3. National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi National closed the chapter quickly, proving they knew the conduct was wrong. They have over 150 chapters nationwide. If their UH chapter was doing this, how many others are?
4. Victims Are Afraid, But We Protect Them: Leonel’s fear of retribution is real. We understand why Monroe County victims might be scared to speak out. Our firm provides a secure environment to pursue justice.
5. One Brave Victim Can Protect Monroe County Students: As Lupe Pena said, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do.” Your child’s case could lead to changes that save lives.
6. $10 Million Sends a Message: This substantial lawsuit sends an undeniable message to fraternities and universities across the nation: hazing will have severe financial consequences. Monroe County families can send this same message of accountability.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

Monroe County parents, it’s crucial to understand that hazing today is far removed from innocent pranks. It is a dangerous and destructive practice often veiled in secrecy and perpetuated by a culture of fear and silence. When your child attends universities where Greek life flourishes, such as various campuses of the University System of Georgia or private institutions like Emory University in Atlanta, they face direct risks. What our client, Leonel Bermudez, endured is not an anomaly; it reflects the true brutality of modern hazing.

Here’s a breakdown of the types of hazing activities and their devastating consequences, drawing parallels to what Leonel experienced and what could happen to students from Monroe County:

Physical Abuse: Not Just a Bump or Bruise

Hazing often involves intense physical harm, disguised as “building toughness” or “testing loyalty.” Leonel’s experience is a grim example:

• Forced Calisthenics to Collapse: Prolonged workouts like hundreds of pushups and squats, repeated “suicides” (sprints), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and even “repeated 100-yard crawls” pushed him until his muscles broke down and his kidneys failed. These aren’t just strenuous exercises; they are designed to exceed human endurance. Students from Monroe County enrolling in physical education programs or ROTC at Georgia universities could face similarly dangerous demands under the guise of training.
• Paddling and Beatings: Leonel was “struck with wooden paddles,” a direct act of assault that inflicts pain and humiliation.
• Exposure: Being forced to strip to minimal clothing in cold weather, then sprayed with a garden hose, risks hypothermia and severe discomfort.
• Traumatic Head Injuries: Beatings or falls during coerced physical activity can result in concussions, skull fractures, or worse. The consequences can be devastating for individuals and their families in Monroe County.

Forced Consumption: A Deadly Game

Alcohol and food are frequently weaponized in hazing rituals, often with fatal outcomes:

• Binge Drinking: Max Gruver died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol during a fraternity “Bible Study” at LSU. Stone Foltz died following forced consumption of an entire bottle of liquor at Bowling Green State University. Such extreme alcohol consumption is a hallmark of hazing, leading to dangerously high blood alcohol levels.
• Eating to Vomiting: Leonel was made to eat large quantities of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. This isn’t just unpleasant; it’s a dangerous act that can cause aspiration, choking, and internal distress, particularly when followed by intense physical exertion.
• Non-Food Substances: Some hazing rituals coerce pledges to consume disgusting or even toxic non-food items, posing serious health risks.

Psychological Torture and Humiliation: The Invisible Wounds

The psychological damage from hazing can be as profound and long-lasting as physical injuries:

• Dehumanization and Degradation: Being forced to carry a fanny pack with “objects of a sexual nature,” as Leonel was, or made to lie in vomit-soaked grass, strips individuals of their dignity.
• Hog-Tying: The incident where another pledge was “hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour” is not only physical restraint but a deeply traumatic and humiliating act, reminiscent of torture.
• Verbal Abuse and Threats: Constant threats of physical punishment, expulsion, or social ostracism create an environment of fear that forces compliance. Leonel himself faced threats of “immediate expulsion” if he stopped exercising.
• Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to drive members in the early morning or participate in late-night activities leads to physical and mental exhaustion, impairing judgment and increasing vulnerability.
• Social Isolation and Control: Enforced dress codes, study hours, and required interviews are all tactics used to control pledges’ lives, isolating them from outside support and fostering complete dependence on the fraternity.

Medical Consequences: A Lifetime of Suffering

The injuries sustained from hazing are often severe and require extensive medical intervention:

• Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure: As seen with Leonel, extreme physical exertion can break down muscle tissue, leading to life-threatening kidney damage.
• Alcohol Poisoning: The most common cause of hazing deaths, often involving blood alcohol levels far exceeding lethal limits.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From falls, beatings, or violent shaking. Even seemingly minor head impacts can lead to long-term cognitive and emotional issues.
• Permanent Disability: Injuries to the spine, internal organs, or brain can result in lifelong disabilities, requiring continuous medical care and impacting a victim’s ability to work or live independently.
• Mental Health Disorders: PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation are common and can require years of therapy and medication.

Monroe County parents, this is the brutal reality behind the Greek letters. These are not isolated incidents; they are symptoms of a culture that prioritizes “tradition” over human life and dignity. We refuse to accept this. If your child has been subjected to any of these horrific acts, we are here to fight for them, just as we are fighting for Leonel Bermudez.

Who Is Responsible? Holding Every Negligent Party Accountable

When a hazing incident occurs, it’s rarely just one or two individuals at fault. A complex web of negligence often involves multiple parties, from individual fraternity members to powerful national organizations and universities. Our strategy in cases like Leonel Bermudez’s is to identify and pursue every single entity who contributed to the harm, ensuring comprehensive accountability and maximum compensation for victims and their families in Monroe County.

1. The Local Chapter and Its Members:

These are often the direct perpetrators and organizers of hazing activities. In Leonel’s case, we have named the Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi for orchestrating the abuse.

• Individual Members: Every fraternity brother who participated in, planned, encouraged, or failed to stop the hazing activities can be held personally liable. This includes the chapter’s President and Pledgemaster, who hold positions of authority and direct responsibility. In the Stone Foltz case, a jury awarded $6.5 million personally against the former chapter president. This demonstrates that individual members cannot hide behind the fraternity’s corporate structure.
• Former Members and Spouses: Hazing often extends to off-campus locations, including homes rented or owned by older members or alumni. In Leonel Bermudez’s case, a former member and his spouse are named defendants because hazing sessions occurred at their residence. This highlights how far the chain of liability can extend, including to property owners who enable these dangerous activities. Their homeowner’s insurance policy may provide an additional avenue for recovery.

2. The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization:

These large, well-funded entities are often considered the “deepest pockets” in hazing litigation due to their significant assets and insurance policies. Our lawsuit names Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters as a primary defendant.

• Failure to Supervise: National organizations have a duty to oversee their chapters, ensure compliance with anti-hazing policies, and intervene when violations occur. Pi Kappa Phi National’s immediate decision to close the UH chapter after Leonel’s hospitalization (seven days before our lawsuit) suggests an admission that they failed in this duty. Their prior history, including the death of Andrew Coffey at their Florida State chapter in 2017, clearly demonstrates a repeated failure to act despite having “actual notice” of deadly hazing.
• Pattern of Negligence: When a national organization has multiple hazing incidents across different chapters, it establishes a “pattern of negligence,” showing a systemic problem rather than isolated rogue behavior. Our lawsuit alleges a “pattern of similar hazing and policy violations by the fraternity, locally and nationally.”
• Inadequate Policies and Training: Often, national organizations claim to have anti-hazing policies, but these policies are frequently toothless, poorly enforced, or contradicted by a pervasive culture of hazing within their chapters.

3. The University or College:

Educational institutions like the University of Houston also bear significant responsibility, especially when hazing occurs on their property or involves their registered student organizations. We have named both the University of Houston and the UH Board of Regents in our lawsuit.

• Premises Liability: Crucially, the hazing of Leonel Bermudez occurred, in part, at a “University-owned fraternity house.” This grants the University direct premises liability. As a landlord, the university had a duty to maintain a safe environment and prevent illegal activities on its property. They collected rent while students were being tortured.
• Negligent Supervision and Oversight: Universities have a duty to protect their students and to regulate student organizations, especially those like fraternities that have a known history of hazing. Our lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez highlights that the University knew about a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017 involving another fraternity on its campus (Pi Kappa Alpha), yet failed to implement effective safeguards to prevent future incidents.
• Failure to Intervene: Despite power to regulate, suspend, or remove organizations, universities often turn a blind eye until a catastrophic event forces their hand. The University of Houston’s spokesperson admitted the events were “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of our community standards,” further highlighting their failure to prevent such incidents.
• Title IX Violations: In cases involving sexual assault or harassment during hazing, universities may also face liability under Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs.

4. Insurance Carriers:

Ultimately, a significant portion of the compensation in hazing cases comes from the various insurance policies held by the defendants. As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena bring invaluable insight into how these companies operate.

• National Fraternity’s Liability Insurance: These policies are designed to cover the national organization for negligence and other liabilities.
• University’s Institutional Insurance: Universities carry comprehensive liability insurance that can cover claims arising from student injuries on campus or involving their recognized organizations.
• Housing Corporation’s Policies: The entity that owns fraternity houses typically has its own property and liability insurance.
• Homeowner’s/Renter’s Insurance: Individual defendants, especially alumni who host hazing events, may have personal insurance coverage.

Monroe County families, we leverage our deep knowledge of insurance company tactics, gained from years of working on the defense side, to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for our clients. We do not just sue; we strategically pursue every available avenue for compensation, ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable for the immense suffering they cause.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof of Accountability

For Monroe County families grappling with the aftermath of hazing, the thought of taking on powerful fraternities, national organizations, and well-funded universities can feel overwhelming. Many wonder if justice is truly possible. Our answer is a resounding yes. Past hazing lawsuits have consistently resulted in multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements, demonstrating that aggressive legal action can secure substantial compensation and, more importantly, force systemic change. These landmark cases serve as a powerful precedent for our ongoing $10 million fight for Leonel Bermudez, and for any hazing victim in Monroe County.

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

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

Total: Over $10.1 Million

In one of the largest public university hazing payouts in Ohio history, the family of Stone Foltz received over $10.1 million. Stone, a 20-year-old pledge at Bowling Green State University, died from alcohol poisoning in 2021 after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha (PIKE) initiation event. The university paid $2.9 million, while the national fraternity and individual members contributed $7.2 million. Most recently, in December 2024, a jury personally ordered Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, to pay an additional $6.5 million for his role in Foltz’s death. This proves that individual perpetrators face severe personal financial consequences.

• Relevance to Monroe County: This case sets a clear benchmark. Our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez, who survived but suffered severe, life-altering injuries, is directly in line with such precedent. It shows that both institutions and individuals face massive payouts.

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

Total: $6.1 Million Jury Verdict

At just 18 years old, Maxwell Gruver died of acute alcohol poisoning with a BAC of 0.495—six times the legal limit—during a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” hazing event at LSU in 2017. A jury later awarded his family $6.1 million. This tragic case led to criminal convictions, including negligent homicide, and prompted the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making hazing a felony offense.

• Relevance to Monroe County: The Gruver case is a testament to how juries react to hazing. They will award millions for injuries and wrongful death, sending a clear message that such behavior is unacceptable. It also shows how these cases can drive legislative change, holding organizations to higher standards.

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

Total: Over $110 Million (Estimated Settlements)

Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died in 2017 after being forced to consume 18 alcoholic drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi hazing event at Penn State. He suffered traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding after falling down stairs, and fraternity members delayed calling 911 for 12 crucial hours. The total settlements in this case, though confidential, are estimated to exceed $110 million. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, with several serving jail time. This case spurred the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania, dramatically increasing penalties for hazing.

• Relevance to Monroe County: When evidence is strong and institutional negligence is clear, as in Leonel’s case, settlements can reach staggering amounts. This case, captured by security cameras, demonstrates that undeniable proof compels massive accountability.

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

The Same Fraternity as Our Client’s Case

In 2017, Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old FSU pledge, tragically died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night.” His chapter was permanently closed, and multiple members faced criminal charges. While the civil settlement amount was confidential, the impact was profound.

• Relevance to Monroe County: This is a crucial precedent for Leonel Bermudez. It proves that Pi Kappa Phi National had actual knowledge of deadly hazing within its chapters eight years before Leonel’s incident. They had ample time to implement changes but failed to do so, establishing a clear pattern of negligence and foreseeability that strengthens our claim for punitive damages.

5. Adam Oakes – Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021)

Total: Over $4 Million Settlement

Adam Oakes, a VCU freshman, died in 2021 from alcohol poisoning during a Delta Chi hazing event. His family recently reached a settlement exceeding $4 million in October 2024. This case, like others, led to criminal charges against individual fraternity members and new legislation (“Adam’s Law”) in Virginia.

6. University of Houston / Pi Kappa Alpha (2017)

Prior Hazing on the Same Campus

The University of Houston itself has a history with hazing. In 2017, Jared Munoz, a Pi Kappa Alpha pledge, was hospitalized with a lacerated spleen due to hazing. A $1 million lawsuit was filed, and while criminal charges against the national organization were later dismissed, this incident established that the University of Houston had prior notice of dangerous hazing on its campus well before Leonel Bermudez was admitted to the hospital.

A Pattern of Payouts, A Legacy of Change:

These cases send an unequivocal message:

• Hazing is Expensive: Institutions and national organizations face multi-million dollar payouts when they fail to prevent hazing.
• Individuals Are Liable: Fraternity members and officers who directly inflict or enable hazing can be held personally responsible.
• Justice and Deterrence: These lawsuits not only compensate victims but also act as powerful deterrents, driving legislative reform (like the Max Gruver and Timothy J. Piazza laws) and forcing universities to re-evaluate their Greek life oversight.
• Monroe County Victims Deserve the Same: Whether your child attends a university in Georgia or elsewhere, the legal strategies and precedents from these cases apply. Our firm’s experience in complex, high-stakes litigation, including the BP Texas City explosion, equips us to take on any powerful defendant, ensuring Monroe County families receive the justice they deserve.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights in Monroe County and Beyond

For families in Monroe County whose child endured the trauma of hazing, understanding the legal framework that supports your claim is crucial. While our firm is deeply familiar with Texas law, hazing is a nationwide problem, and most states, including Georgia, have anti-hazing statutes and legal principles that allow victims to seek justice. Here, we’ll explain the powerful legal protections available, with a focus on Texas law as a model given our firm’s experience, which we apply to cases across the country.

The Georgia Anti-Hazing Law (O.C.G.A. § 16-5-61)

Georgia has its own anti-hazing law, O.C.G.A. § 16-5-61, which prohibits hazing at public and private educational institutions.

• Definition: Georgia’s law generally defines hazing as any act or series of acts that, for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any organization, causes or is likely to cause bodily danger or physical injury, or personal degradation or humiliation. This definition is broad and covers many of the activities Leonel Bermudez endured.
• Consent is NOT a Defense: Similar to Texas, Georgia law generally holds that consent to hazing is not a defense for the perpetrators. This is a critical protection for victims, as fraternities often try to argue that pledges voluntarily participated.
• Criminal Penalties: Georgia’s anti-hazing law includes criminal penalties, making hazing a misdemeanor offense. If serious injury or death results, more severe charges, such as aggravated assault or involuntary manslaughter, may apply.

Texas Hazing Laws: A Robust Legal Framework

Our landmark case for Leonel Bermudez is built upon the strong foundation of Texas hazing laws, specifically the Texas Education Code § 37.151-37.157. These statutes are exceptionally comprehensive and provide multiple avenues for accountability, offering a framework that can be adapted to other states like Georgia.

1. Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Broad and Inclusive

Texas law defines hazing as “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off campus… directed against a student for the purpose of pledging… if the act:”
* “is any type of physical brutality,” including “whipping, beating, striking… or similar activity.” (This covers the wooden paddles and extreme physical punishment Leonel endured.)
* “involves sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other similar activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.” (This directly applies to Leonel’s sleep deprivation, cold water exposure, and intense calisthenics that led to kidney failure.)
* “involves consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage… that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm.” (This explicitly covers forced eating until vomiting, something Leonel regularly endured.)

Leonel Bermudez’s case satisfied multiple of these statutory elements. The clarity of this definition significantly strengthens hazing litigation irrespective of specific state.

2. Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): The Ultimate Protection

This is perhaps the most crucial aspect of hazing law for Monroe County families. Texas statute unequivocally 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 directly refutes the common defense used by fraternities and universities: “He agreed to it,” or “He knew what he signed up for.” The law recognizes that true consent cannot exist in coercive, abusive environments. This principle is vital in Georgia hazing cases, too, where similar legal interpretations often apply.

3. Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Individual Accountability

Texas law assigns serious criminal penalties for hazing:
* Class A Misdemeanor: For hazing causing “serious bodily injury” (like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure), perpetrators face up to 1 year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
* State Jail Felony: If hazing causes death, perpetrators face 180 days to 2 years in state jail and up to a $10,000 fine.

The University of Houston’s spokesperson even acknowledged “potential criminal charges” in Leonel’s case, confirming the criminal nature of these acts.

4. Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Holding Fraternities Accountable

Beyond individuals, Texas law states that “an organization commits an offense if the organization condones or encourages hazing or if an officer or any combination of members… commits or assists in the commission of hazing.” Penalties include fines up to $10,000, denial of campus operation, and forfeiture of property. This ensures that the local chapter and even the national organization (if they “condone” or “encourage” through inaction) can face direct sanctions. Georgia law generally also holds organizations responsible.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Prosecution

Even if criminal charges are not pursued or result in acquittal, victims in Monroe County can still pursue a civil lawsuit, which seeks financial compensation for injuries regardless of criminal outcome. Key civil claims include:

• Negligence (Applies Nationwide): This is the foundation of many personal injury cases. We argue that the university, national fraternity, and individuals had a “duty of care” to protect students, they “breached” that duty by allowing hazing, and this breach “caused” the student’s injuries, leading to “damages.”
• Premises Liability (Applies Nationwide): If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (like the University-owned fraternity house in Leonel’s case) or an individual (like the former member’s residence), the property owner can be held liable for failing to provide a safe environment.
• Negligent Supervision: This applies when an entity, such as a national fraternity or a university, fails to adequately oversee its chapters or student organizations, despite knowing the risks of hazing.
• Assault and Battery: Direct physical abuse, like paddling or forced physical exertion, constitutes assault and battery, for which individual perpetrators can be held personally liable.
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For extreme and outrageous hazing conduct, such as waterboarding, victims can seek compensation for severe psychological harm.
• Vicarious Liability: National fraternities and universities can be held responsible for the actions of their agents (e.g., local chapters and student leaders) under this legal doctrine.

Monroe County families, the nuances of these laws may seem complex, but our attorneys are experts in navigating them. We will apply aggressive legal strategies informed by these statutes, leveraging our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) to ensure your child’s rights are protected and justice is served, whether the incident occurred in Georgia, Texas, or anywhere in the United States. Distance is no barrier to seeking accountability.

Why Attorney911: Your Zealous Advocates in Monroe County and Beyond

When your family in Monroe County is facing the aftermath of a hazing incident, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the profound impact of this trauma and knows how to fight powerful institutions. Attorney911 is built for these moments. We are not just personal injury attorneys; we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™ with a specialized focus on hazing litigation, and our current $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is proof of our commitment. We bring unparalleled experience, insider knowledge, and a deeply compassionate approach to every case, including those from Monroe County.

1. Unmatched Experience That Matters to Monroe County Families:

• 25+ Years of Courtroom Battle: Ralph P. Manginello brings over two decades of aggressive courtroom experience. He is a battle-tested trial attorney who knows how to navigate complex litigation against major defendants. This extensive track record extends to diverse areas of law, equipping him with a broad legal arsenal to tackle all angles of a hazing case.
• Former Insurance Defense Insight (Both Attorneys): This is our strategic advantage. Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Eleno Peña are former insurance defense attorneys. They have spent years on the other side, learning the tactics, strategies, and weaknesses of insurance companies and large entities like national fraternities and universities. They know how the defense plans to minimize payouts, delay claims, and shift blame. Now, they use that insider knowledge to meticulously dismantle those defenses and maximize recovery for hazing victims in Monroe County. Lupe Peña, in particular, worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm, providing him with critical insights into national defense strategies.
• Multi-Billion Dollar Case Experience: Ralph Manginello was intimately involved in the massive BP Texas City Explosion litigation, a multi-billion dollar mass tort case that involved 15 deaths and 180+ injuries. This experience demonstrates our firm’s capability to take on and win against giant corporate defendants – the very same skills required to confront national fraternities and well-resourced universities on behalf of Monroe County families.
• Federal Court Authority: Our attorneys are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and have experience in federal appellate courts. This federal court admission is crucial when pursuing hazing cases against national organizations, which often involve federal jurisdiction based on multi-state operations. It means we can represent Monroe County victims in federal court, if necessary, regardless of where the hazing occurred.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses (Texas and New York): This unique advantage is strategic for hazing litigation. Many national fraternities and sororities are headquartered outside of Texas, with New York being a common location. Our dual licenses provide tactical flexibility and a broader legal reach when pursuing these national defendants for hazing incidents impacting Monroe County students.
• Hazing-Specific Expertise: We don’t just handle hazing cases; we are actively litigating one of the most high-profile hazing lawsuits in the nation right now. Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases, such as Leonel’s, and wrongful death hazing litigation. This focused experience means we understand the unique medical, psychological, and legal complexities of hazing cases.

2. A Deeply Human and Empathetic Approach for Monroe County Families:

• Personal Investment: We see your child as a person—not a paycheck. Our commitment to justice for Leonel Bermudez stems from a genuine outrage at the abuse he suffered. Ralph, a father of three, and Lupe, a family man himself, understand the profound fears and anger that Monroe County parents feel when their child is harmed.
• Client Communication: We believe in complete transparency. We keep our clients informed at every stage of their case, ensuring you understand the process, strategy, and options. Our testimonials consistently highlight our commitment to clear, consistent communication. As Chad Harris, a client, put it, “Atty. Manginello and I had DIRECT COMMUNICATION on my legal issue and keeps you updated in a timely manner. He follows up with you as well which is unheard of with most firms.”
• No Upfront Cost: Contingency Fees: We understand that finances should never be a barrier to justice, especially for Monroe County families facing medical bills and emotional distress. We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless, and until, we win your case. This aligns our interests with yours and allows you to fight powerful defendants without financial risk.
• “Se Habla Español”: Lupe Pena is fluent in Spanish, enabling us to provide comprehensive legal services to Hispanic families in Monroe County who may be affected by hazing without language barriers. We ensure that every victim’s story is heard and understood.
• We Come to You: While headquartered in Houston, our commitment to justice extends nationwide. For depositions, critical meetings, or trials, our attorneys will travel to Monroe County as needed. We also offer secure video consultations, making expert legal counsel accessible to all families in Monroe County.

3. Data-Driven, Strategic Litigation:

• Texas Hazing Intelligence Database: We don’t guess who to sue; we know. We maintain one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations in Texas, including IRS-registered entities, house corporations, alumni chapters, and their insurance structures. This database allows us to identify every potential defendant and liability pathway instantly. For example, our database includes Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc with EIN 462267515 in Frisco, Texas—the same entity behind the UH chapter we sued.
• Metro Watchdog Statistics: We track Greek organizations across Texas metro areas. In the Houston–The Woodlands–Sugar Land area alone, there are 188 Greek-related organizations. This level of detail allows us to show the scale of liability and oversight required from national organizations and universities.
• National Hazing Death and Injury Tracker: We cross-reference our data with national hazing incident databases, pinpointing fraternities with documented histories of abuse. For instance, Pi Kappa Alpha has paid over $24 million in hazing death settlements nationally. The same Greek letters operate at universities near Monroe County. This pattern evidence is critical for establishing foreseeability and supporting punitive damages.

Monroe County parents, when you choose Attorney911, you’re choosing aggressive, compassionate, and expert representation. You’re choosing a team that knows the defense playbook inside and out. You’re choosing attorneys who are fighting this battle right now for victims like Leonel Bermudez. You’re choosing justice.

What to Do Right Now: Actionable Guidance for Monroe County Families

The moments following a hazing incident can be chaotic, frightening, and confusing for victims and their families in Monroe County. You might be overwhelmed by emotion, focusing on your child’s recovery, or simply unsure of where to turn. However, immediate and decisive action is critical to protecting your legal rights and securing justice. The clock starts ticking from the moment the hazing occurs, and every step you take—or don’t take—can significantly impact your case.

Here’s crucial, actionable guidance from Attorney911 on what to do right now, tailored for Monroe County families:

Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Your child’s physical and mental well-being is paramount.

• Remove Your Child from the Situation: If they are still in a dangerous environment, get them out immediately.
• Seek Medical Care: Even if injuries seem minor or the full extent of psychological trauma isn’t immediately apparent, get professional medical attention.
  • Go to a Hospital or Urgent Care: For physical injuries (like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, or any physical trauma, alcohol poisoning, etc.) or if you suspect intoxication. In Monroe County, nearby hospitals might include Monroe County Hospital – Atrium Health Navicent Primary Care in Forsyth, or larger facilities in Macon or Atlanta.
  • Document Everything (Medically): Ensure all injuries, symptoms, complaints, and explanations of how the injuries occurred are meticulously documented by medical professionals. This creates a critical medical record trail.
  • Keep All Records: Obtain copies of all hospital records, doctor’s notes, lab results (especially for blood alcohol content, creatine kinase levels, etc.), and billing statements.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence (The Power of “Document Everything!”)

Hazing incidents are often shrouded in secrecy, making evidence preservation vital. This is precisely why we constantly preach: “Take pictures. Take pictures. Take pictures. Take more pictures than you think you need to.”

• Photographs and Videos:
  • Injuries: Take clear, timestamped photos of all physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, rashes, signs of muscle breakdown like brown urine as in Leonel’s case) at every stage of healing.
  • Scene: If safe, photograph the location(s) where hazing occurred (fraternity house, off-campus residence, specific rooms, outdoor areas). Document any items used in hazing (e.g., paddles, alcohol containers, degrading objects).
  • Clothing: Photograph any clothing worn during hazing, especially if damaged or stained.
• Digital Communications:
  • DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING. Text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, Facebook Messenger, emails, or any other digital communications are goldmines of evidence. These often contain direct instructions, threats, details of activities, photos, or videos.
  • Screenshot Everything: Take screenshots of entire conversations, group chats, or social media posts related to the hazing. Save these securely. Our video, “Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case?” emphasizes this crucial step.
• Documents:
  • Collect any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or other documents provided by the fraternity/sorority or university.
  • Keep academic records if hazing impacted grades or enrollment.
• Witness Information:
  • Identify anyone who witnessed the hazing, including other pledges, fraternity members (who may be unwilling to participate but are crucial), or observant bystanders.
  • Collect their names, phone numbers, email addresses, and any social media handles.

Step 3: Crucial “DO NOT” Directives

These mistakes can irreparably harm your case, as highlighted in our video, “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case.”

• DO NOT Talk to the Fraternity/Sorority or the University/Their Lawyers: They are not on your side. Their goal is to protect their organization, minimize liability, and gather information to use against you. Any statements you make can be twisted. Refer all inquiries to your attorney.
• DO NOT Sign Anything: Do not sign any documents from the fraternity, sorority, or university, or any insurance company, without legal counsel review. You could be waiving crucial legal rights.
• DO NOT Post on Social Media: Anything you post—even seemingly innocuous photos—can be used by the defense to argue your injuries aren’t severe or that you weren’t truly traumatized. “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident,” is a critical warning we provide.
• DO NOT Confront Perpetrators Directly: This can escalate the situation, potentially leading to further harm or accusations against your child.
• DO NOT Delete Anything: Destroying digital evidence can lead to severe legal sanctions (spoliation of evidence) and significantly weaken your case.

Step 4: Contact Attorney911 Immediately for a Free Consultation

Time is of the essence.

• Call 1-888-ATTY-911: Our legal emergency hotline is available 24/7. The sooner you call, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights and preserving evidence.
• Email Us: You can also reach Ralph Manginello directly at ralph@atty911.com.
• Contingency Fees: Remember, there’s $0 upfront. We work on a contingency basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. This removes the financial barrier to securing expert legal representation.
• Statute of Limitations: In Georgia, like Texas, there’s generally a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including hazing. This means you have a limited window to file a lawsuit from the date of the injury. For wrongful death, the clock starts from the date of death. “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” is a must-watch video explaining this urgency. Evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and your rights can expire if you wait too long.
• Remote Consultations and Nationwide Reach: Even if you’re in Monroe County, we can conduct secure video consultations to discuss your case. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses allow us to represent hazing victims across America, including in Georgia.

Monroe County parents, if you suspect your child has been subjected to hazing, please do not hesitate. These critical first steps can make all the difference in building a strong case for justice and compensation. We are here to guide you through every complex detail, fighting for your family with the same aggressive dedication we bring to every case, including Leonel Bermudez’s landmark lawsuit. Call us. Let us be your first responder to this legal emergency.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline in Monroe County and Beyond

Monroe County families, if your child has suffered the horrific consequences of hazing, you are facing a legal emergency. The trauma, the medical bills, the emotional scars, the betrayal of trust – these are burdens you should not carry alone. Attorney911 is here to fight for you. We are aggressively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit right now against powerful institutions, showing that we are not just experts in theory, but proven fighters in practice. We will bring that same uncompromising dedication to your case, wherever you are.

Monroe County Families: Your Call to Action is Now

Do not wait. The window to seek justice is limited, and evidence disappears quickly. Every moment counts.

📞 CALL US IMMEDIATELY: 1-888-ATTY-911

• This is our Legal Emergency Hotline, available 24/7, for hazing victims and their families in Monroe County and across the nation.
• Email: You can also reach Ralph Manginello directly at ralph@atty911.com.
• Free, Confidential Consultation: Your first conversation with us is always free. We’ll listen to your story, assess your case, and explain your options without any pressure or obligation.

Our Commitment to Monroe County and Nationwide Victims:

• $0 Upfront, Contingency Fees: We understand the financial strain you might be under. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay absolutely nothing upfront. Our fees only come from the compensation we win for you. If we don’t win, you don’t pay us.
• We Come to You: While our primary offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we proudly serve hazing victims in Monroe County and across every state. Distance is not a barrier to justice. We offer secure video consultations for your convenience, and our attorneys are prepared to travel to Monroe County for depositions, client meetings, or trials when needed.
• Federal Court Authority: Our admission to the U.S. District Court and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) give us the reach to pursue national fraternities and universities, regardless of their location or headquarters.

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

We know Leonel Bermudez was not the only victim in the Pi Kappa Phi hazing. Others were subjected to waterboarding, forced eating, extreme exercise, and humiliation. Another pledge collapsed unconscious just weeks before Leonel’s hospitalization.

If you or someone you know was part of the Fall 2025 pledge class at Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter at the University of Houston, or if you witnessed the hazing that Leonel Bermudez endured, you have rights too. We encourage you to come forward. As Lupe Pena stated, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Your testimony can be crucial in holding all responsible parties accountable.

Call Attorney911 today. Let us fight for you and your family in Monroe County.

• Monroe County parents, your child deserves justice.
• Monroe County students, your pain is valid, and accountability is possible.
• We don’t just talk about hazing; we’re fighting it right now.

Trust Attorney911: Your Legal Emergency Lawyers™

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

We’re here to shut down your legal emergency, including the devastating impact of hazing. Contact us now.