peach-county-featured-image.png

Peach County Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $24M Pike Settlements | 125+ Greek Orgs Tracked | Attorney911 — The Firm That Closed Beta Nu | Federal Court | Former Insurance Defense | 1-888-ATTY-911

Earth, Georgia, North America, Peach County, United States

If you’re reading this, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college. Instead, they were tortured. We’re here to help families in Peach County, Georgia, and across the nation, fight back. The promise of brotherhood and sisterhood should never lead to brutality and broken bodies. When that trust is betrayed, and your child is injured or worse, it creates a legal emergency that demands immediate, aggressive action.

We understand what you’re going through. The shock, the anger, the profound sense of betrayal. It’s a nightmare no parent in Peach County or anywhere else should ever have to endure. That’s why we, Attorney911, are committed to turning that pain into accountability. We are actively fighting this battle right now in a high-stakes $10 million lawsuit against a national fraternity and a major university, and we are ready to bring that same fight to families in Peach County, Georgia.

At Attorney911, we believe that hazing is not just “boys being boys” or innocent pranks. It is a calculated act of abuse, designed to demean, control, and often inflict severe physical and psychological harm. We stand with victims and their families in Peach County, providing the kind of relentless, data-driven legal representation needed to hold every responsible party accountable, from individual perpetrators to national organizations and the universities that enable them.

The Landmark Case: Attorney911 Fights for Leonel Bermudez Against Pi Kappa Phi & University of Houston

This isn’t theory; this is our reality. As you read this, our attorneys are deep in litigation on a groundbreaking hazing case in Houston, Texas. This $10 million lawsuit, filed in November 2025, against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members, embodies everything we stand for: aggressive representation, uncovering the truth, and securing justice for victims. This case serves as a stark warning to families in Peach County about the hidden dangers of Greek life and a powerful demonstration of how we fight back.

Peach County Families: What happened to Leonel Bermudez could happen at any university that your child attends, whether it’s Mercer University in Macon, Fort Valley State University, Middle Georgia State University, or Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville. The same national fraternities operate, the same “traditions” are perpetuated, and the same negligence allows it to flourish. We are sharing Leonel’s story so that you understand the severity of modern hazing and the unwavering commitment we bring to holding those responsible accountable.

Media Coverage That Rocked the Nation

Our fight for Leonel Bermudez caught the immediate attention of major news outlets, solidifying the severity and public interest in this pressing issue. You can read some of the coverage here:

Even Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters was compelled to issue a statement on November 21, 2025, titled “Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston” (https://pikapp.org/pi-kappa-phi-closes-beta-nu-chapter-at-the-university-of-houston/), which our lawsuit demonstrates to be an implicit admission of their internal knowledge of wrongdoing.

Leonel Bermudez: A Victim’s Story

Leonel Bermudez was not even an enrolled University of Houston student at the time of his hazing. 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 abuse, physical torture, and psychological torment that culminated in his hospitalization for three nights and four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

As Ralph Manginello told ABC13, “When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure.” This is the reality of hazing; it rips away health, dreams, and trust. Our client’s fear of retribution, despite his severe injuries, highlights the insidious power dynamics within these organizations.

Lupe Pena eloquently 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.” This is our motivation. This is why we fight so fiercely for victims in Peach County and beyond.

A Timeline of Torture and Negligence

  • September 16, 2025: Leonel Bermudez accepts a bid to Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston.
  • September 16 – November 3, 2025: Weeks of systematic hazing begin. Leonel is forced to comply with extreme demands, including an enforced dress code, mandatory study hours, weekly interviews, and driving fraternity members at all hours, leading to exhaustion. He is forced to carry a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature.
  • October 13, 2025: Another pledge is hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. This shows a pattern of extreme degradation.
  • October 15, 2025: A pledge loses consciousness and collapses during forced exercise, but the hazing continues. This is a clear warning that was ignored.
  • November 3, 2025: Leonel is punished for missing an event. He is forced to endure a brutal workout including 100+ pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls, all while reciting the fraternity creed. He is threatened with expulsion if he stops. He collapses, unable to stand, and crawls home.
  • November 4-5, 2025: Leonel’s condition rapidly deteriorates.
  • November 6, 2025: His mother rushes him to the hospital, where he is passing brown urine—a critical sign of muscle breakdown. He is diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure and spends three nights and four days hospitalized.
  • November 6, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National suspends the UH chapter, indicating their immediate awareness of serious violations.
  • November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National officially closes the Beta Nu Chapter. This happens seven days before our lawsuit is filed, demonstrating a clear attempt to control the narrative and minimize liability.
  • November 21, 2025: We file a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court, initiating the legal fight that continues today.

The Horrors of Modern Hazing: What “Brotherhood” Really Looked Like for Leonel

The evidence in Leonel’s case paints a terrifying picture of hazing, demonstrating that these are not isolated incidents but deeply ingrained and brutally executed rituals. This is what modern hazing looks like, and it could be happening at colleges near Peach County, such as Fort Valley State or Middle Georgia State:

  • Waterboarding & Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” sprayed in the face with water during calisthenics. Houston Public Media explicitly called this act “torture, which simulates drowning.” When done to enemy combatants, this is a war crime; when done to a prospective college student, it is a profound betrayal.
  • Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Pledges were forced to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited. Then, in a truly dehumanizing act, they were forced to continue running sprints through their own vomit, further exercising past the point of physical exhaustion.
  • Extreme Physical Punishment: Weeks of grueling physical demands included 100+ pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (running drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. Pledges were struck with wooden paddles. This relentless exertion led directly to Leonel’s critical medical condition. The fact that another pledge lost consciousness during these workouts on October 15, yet the abuse continued, highlights the extreme disregard for human life.
  • Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was tormented psychologically, forced to carry a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature at all times, threatened with expulsion for non-compliance, and subjected to public degradation. The incident where another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour demonstrates the ritualistic humiliation involved.
  • Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to drive fraternity members during early morning hours contributed to chronic exhaustion, eroding their physical and mental resilience.

The Medical Nightmare: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

Leonel’s physical injuries were not superficial; they were life-threatening. He was diagnosed with:

  • Rhabdomyolysis: This is a severe medical condition caused by the breakdown of muscle tissue, which releases harmful proteins (myoglobin) into the bloodstream. These proteins can damage the kidneys.
  • Acute Kidney Failure: This devastating complication meant Leonel’s kidneys were no longer able to filter waste from his blood. Symptoms included passing brown urine, a classic sign of myoglobin in the urine. His creatine kinase levels were “very high,” confirming severe muscle damage.

Leonel’s hospitalization for three nights and four days was a direct result of the fraternity’s actions. While he survived, the long-term impact of acute kidney failure can be profound, potentially leading to chronic kidney disease, a need for dialysis, or even a kidney transplant in severe, permanent cases. Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases, making our firm uniquely qualified to navigate the complex medical aspects of Leonel’s suffering.

Institutional Responses: A Calculated Effort to Limit Liability

The statements issued by both the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National reveal a coordinated attempt to manage public perception and minimize legal exposure:

  • University of Houston Spokesperson: Publicly stated that “the events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards.” While expressing concern, this statement also acknowledges that the university’s own standards were violated and hints at “potential criminal charges.” This is an admission of institutional failure and foreshadows legal consequences for the perpetrators.
  • Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters: Their website announcement, dated November 21, 2025, confirmed the chapter’s closure effective November 14, 2025. This preemptive shutdown, seven days before our lawsuit was filed, demonstrates an implicit acknowledgment of severe misconduct. The national organization stated, “Pi Kappa Phi takes all allegations of hazing seriously… We thank the University of Houston for its collaboration and leadership… We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time.” This corporate language reveals a lack of genuine remorse, an admission of policy “violations,” and a clear intention to eventually reinstitute the chapter, prioritizing organizational survival over genuine reform. KHOU also reported that the national organization failed to enforce anti-hazing rules “despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'”

Why This Case Matters to Families in Peach County

  1. Proof That “Tradition” is Torture: Leonel’s story is proof that hazing isn’t harmless fun; it’s systematic abuse that can lead to life-threatening injuries. Peach County families must understand this brutal reality, as similar activities can occur at colleges their children might attend across Georgia.
  2. Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place. This established undeniable premises liability. Many colleges in and around Peach County, like Fort Valley State University or Middle Georgia State University, have property where Greek life organizations operate, carrying the same potential liability if they fail to protect students.
  3. National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi National’s swift chapter closure, along with allegations of their awareness of a “hazing crisis,” proves that national organizations are not ignorant of these dangers. These same national fraternities operate chapters at Georgia universities, and they must be held accountable for their widespread failures.
  4. Victims Are Afraid: Leonel’s fear of retribution is common among hazing victims. We protect our clients, providing a safe space to seek justice without fear of further harm, knowing that many families in Peach County may face similar intimidation.
  5. One Brave Victim Can Protect Others: As Lupe Pena emphasized, fighting for Leonel “prevents harm to another person.” Your case in Peach County could be the catalyst that saves lives and prevents future suffering.
  6. $10 Million Sends a Message: The significant damages sought in Leonel’s lawsuit signal that there is a severe price for this kind of negligence and abuse. Families in Peach County can pursue similar high-value claims to force real change in Greek life culture.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

Many parents in Peach County may have a dated understanding of hazing, imagining harmless pranks or silly initiation rituals. The reality, as tragically demonstrated by Leonel Bermudez’s experience, is far darker. Modern hazing is often characterized by extreme physical abuse, psychological torment, forced consumption of dangerous substances, and deliberate humiliation. It is not about building character; it is about breaking individuals.

  • Physical Abuse: This involves intentional infliction of bodily harm, such as beatings, paddling, branding, burning, or forced exercise to the point of collapse and injury. Leonel was subjected to paddles and extreme calisthenics.
  • Forced Consumption: This frequently involves binge drinking, chugging dangerous amounts of alcohol, or consuming non-food items, leading to alcohol poisoning, choking hazards, or severe internal distress. Leonel was forced to eat until he vomited.
  • Psychological Torture: This category includes acts designed to humiliate, degrade, isolate, or instill fear, leading to lasting mental trauma. The fanny pack incident and the hog-tying of another pledge fall into this category.
  • Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to stay awake for extended periods or disrupting their sleep patterns leads to severe exhaustion, impairing judgment and increasing vulnerability to further abuse.
  • Sexual Abuse: This can range from forced nudity and inappropriate touching to sexual assault. The requirement for Leonel to carry sexually suggestive items hints at the degrading sexual aspects often present in hazing.
  • Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As Leonel’s case so chillingly illustrates, this involves acts that mimic drowning, causing extreme terror and physical distress.

The Medical Consequences
The impact of hazing can be devastating, leading to conditions like rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure (as seen with Leonel), alcohol poisoning, traumatic brain injuries, hypothermia, cardiac arrest, and long-term psychological damage such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Tragically, hazing also leads to death, with at least one hazing-related fatality occurring every year in the United States since 2000.

The Institutional Failure
Peach County families trust universities to protect their children. However, the data reveals a shocking reality:

  • 55% of students in Greek organizations experience hazing.
  • 40% of student athletes report hazing.
  • 95% of students who are hazed do NOT report it, often due to fear of retaliation or the belief that it’s part of the “tradition.”

Universities and national organizations know hazing is happening. They create policies, but often fail to enforce them effectively until a tragedy forces their hand. Then, they issue carefully worded statements, suspend chapters, and claim “shock,” just as Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston did when Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized. This pattern of negligence and delayed action is precisely what we fight to expose and punish.

Who Is Responsible? Holding Every Enabler Accountable

One of the most crucial aspects of a successful hazing lawsuit is identifying and holding every single responsible party accountable. In Leonel Bermudez’s $10 million lawsuit, we cast a wide net, targeting all entities that contributed to his trauma. This comprehensive approach is what Peach County families deserve when seeking justice, as it maximizes the potential for meaningful recovery and sends a powerful message.

Here’s who can be held responsible in a hazing incident:

  • The Local Chapter: This includes the specific fraternity or sorority chapter involved in the hazing activities. These chapters directly organize and execute the hazing rituals, making them immediately liable. In Leonel’s case, the Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston is a defendant.
  • Chapter Officers: Individuals in leadership roles within the local chapter, such as the President, Pledgemaster, or Risk Manager, bear significant responsibility. They often direct, organize, or knowingly permit hazing. We have named the President and Pledgemaster as defendants in the Bermudez lawsuit.
  • Individual Members: Any active member who participated in, encouraged, or failed to intervene in hazing activities can be held personally liable. This includes current and even former members, as seen in Leonel’s case where hazing occurred at a former member’s residence.
  • Spouses of Members / Property Owners: If hazing occurs on private property, the owner of that property can be held accountable under premises liability laws. In our lawsuit, the spouse of a former member is named because they allowed hazing to occur at their home.
  • The National Organization: National fraternities and sororities often have millions in assets and extensive insurance policies. They are responsible for overseeing their local chapters, enforcing anti-hazing policies, and ensuring member safety. When a national organization, like Pi Kappa Phi, has a documented history of hazing incidents—such as the death of Andrew Coffey in 2017—yet fails to prevent another serious incident like Leonel’s, they demonstrate a pattern of negligence that makes them prime targets for litigation.
  • The University or College: Educational institutions have a fundamental duty to protect their students. If a university knows or should have known that hazing is occurring on its campus (especially at university-owned property, as in Leonel’s case), or if it fails to adequately supervise Greek life, it can be held liable for institutional negligence. This also extends to the university system’s governing body, such as the Board of Regents, which we named as a defendant.
  • Housing Corporations: Many Greek organizations operate through separate housing corporations that own or manage the chapter’s physical properties. These entities can be held liable if hazing occurs on their premises due to their failure to maintain a safe environment.
  • Insurance Carriers: Ultimately, the funds to compensate victims often come from the liability insurance policies held by the national organization, the university, housing corporations, or even individual homeowner’s policies. As former insurance defense attorneys, we know precisely how to pursue these “deep pockets” and maximize recovery.

This is not about suing “broke college kids”; it is about holding the entire ecosystem of enablers accountable, from the individuals who directly inflict harm to the powerful institutions that allow it to continue. Our data-driven approach means we identify every potentially liable entity, ensuring comprehensive justice for our clients in Peach County.

Multi-Million Dollar Proof: What Hazing Cases Win

The goal of a hazing lawsuit is not just accountability, but also to secure substantial compensation for the victim’s injuries, pain, and suffering. We want institutions like universities in Peach County and national fraternities operating in Georgia to understand that turning a blind eye to hazing will have severe financial consequences. The justice system has repeatedly awarded multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in hazing cases, setting powerful precedents that inform our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case.

Peach County families: These cases are not just statistics; they are stories of justice. They prove that you CAN fight back, and you CAN win, even against powerful, well-funded institutions.

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

  • The Tragedy: Stone Foltz tragically died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha hazing ritual. He was found unresponsive and died days later.
  • The Outcome: The Foltz family received over $10.1 million in settlements, with Bowling Green State University paying $2.9 million and Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and other parties contributing a combined $7.2 million. Just recently, in December 2024, a criminal court ordered Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, to pay $6.5 million in personal liability for his role in Stone’s death.
  • Relevance for Peach County: This case directly supports our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez. It shows that universities are held liable, national fraternities pay millions, and even individual officers can face massive personal judgments. The hazing that killed Stone Foltz is tragically similar to the forced consumption and reckless physical activity Leonel endured.

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

  • The Tragedy: Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, died from acute alcohol poisoning with a BAC over six times the legal limit after a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” hazing event where pledges were forced to drink heavily for incorrect answers.
  • The Outcome: A jury awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million in a civil lawsuit. Matthew Naquin, a fraternity member, was convicted of negligent homicide and sentenced to prison. The case also inspired the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
  • Relevance for Peach County: This jury verdict demonstrates that when cases go to trial, juries are willing to award millions for hazing incidents, especially where there’s extreme recklessness. It reinforces that criminal and civil accountability can run in parallel.

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

  • The Tragedy: Timothy Piazza died from a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding after being forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi hazing ritual. Fraternity members waited 12 hours to call 911 despite his obvious distress, a delay captured on horrifying security camera footage.
  • The Outcome: While confidential, settlements in the Piazza case are estimated to exceed $110 million. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, with several convicted of involuntary manslaughter and hazing. The tragedy spurred Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.”
  • Relevance for Peach County: This monumental settlement proves that egregious hazing, especially when clearly documented, can lead to astronomical damages. This case sent a powerful message of zero tolerance that resonates nationwide, including in Peach County.

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

  • The Tragedy: Andrew Coffey died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” hazing event. This occurred on November 3, 2017.
  • The Outcome: Nine fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the chapter was permanently closed at FSU. The family reached a confidential civil settlement.
  • Relevance for Peach County: This is devastating for Pi Kappa Phi in the Bermudez case. Andrew Coffey died on November 3, 2017. Leonel Bermudez collapsed from hazing on November 3, 2025. Eight years later, the same national fraternity, Pi Kappa Phi, was involved in another life-threatening incident. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and places Pi Kappa Phi on notice that they knew about deadly hazing in their organization yet failed to prevent it from happening again.

Adam Oakes (Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi, 2021): $4 Million+ Settlement

  • The Tragedy: Adam Oakes died from acute alcohol poisoning after a Delta Chi hazing event.
  • The Outcome: In October 2024, the Oakes family reached a $4 million+ settlement. Six fraternity members pleaded guilty to hazing charges. The family tirelessly advocated for “Adam’s Law,” new hazing legislation in Virginia.
  • Relevance for Peach County: This recent settlement, even for a non-death case (compared to our lawsuit for Leonel who survived), shows that large settlements are common. It also highlights the importance of public awareness and legislative change spurred by these tragedies.

These cases are not isolated incidents. They represent a nationwide pattern of severe hazing, institutional negligence, and consequential legal victories for victims. Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is not just an arbitrary number; it’s a figure rooted in these established precedents, designed to force accountability and prevent future tragedies for families in Peach County and across America.

Peach County’s Legal Protections: Understanding Georgia’s Anti-Hazing Laws

While much of our firm’s experience is in Texas, which has strong anti-hazing laws, every state, including Georgia, has legal frameworks designed to protect students from hazing. Peach County families deserve to understand these protections. Knowing your legal rights is the first step toward seeking justice.

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

Georgia’s law, while distinct from Texas, is designed to combat hazing in educational settings:

  • Definition of Hazing: Georgia law defines hazing as any pastime or amusement, engaged in with students or prospective students, that is dangerous to life or health or any bodily or mental harm or injury would be inflicted. This includes, but is not limited to:

    • Physical Abuse: Paddling, beating, physical contests designed to result in pain, sleep deprivation, or confinement.
    • Forced Consumption: Forced ingestion of alcohol, food, drugs, or other substances.
    • Public Humiliation: Any act that causes embarrassment, shame, or ridicule.
    • Kidnapping/Confinement: Holding a student against their will.

  • Criminal Penalties: Hazing is a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature in Georgia. This means individuals who participate in or condone hazing can face criminal charges, including fines and jail time. If the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, the criminal penalties can be more severe.

  • Institutional Reporting: Similar to Texas, Georgia universities often have policies requiring reporting of hazing incidents and consequences for organizations found responsible, including suspension or revocation of recognition.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Charges

While criminal prosecution aims to punish offenders, a civil lawsuit, like the one we are pursuing for Leonel Bermudez, focuses on compensating the victim for their injuries and holding all responsible parties financially accountable. For Peach County families, this means:

  1. Negligence Claims: Just like in Texas, Georgia law allows victims to sue for negligence. This means proving that the university, national fraternity, or individuals had a duty to protect the student, breached that duty by allowing hazing, and that this breach directly caused the student’s injuries and damages.
  2. Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by a university or a fraternity housing corporation in Peach County, those entities can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment and prevent dangerous activities on their premises.
  3. Negligent Supervision: This claim targets the failure of national organizations and universities in Georgia to adequately supervise their local chapters and Greek life programs, especially when they had prior knowledge of hazing risks.
  4. Assault and Battery: Individual perpetrators can be sued for intentional harmful or offensive contact. Every person who participated in physically abusing your child can be held personally responsible.
  5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: When the hazing is extreme and outrageous, causing severe emotional trauma, victims can sue for intentional infliction of emotional distress, covering the psychological toll of the abuse.

Critically, in Georgia, as in Texas, the argument that the victim “consented” to hazing is NOT a valid legal defense. Hazing activities are fundamentally coercive, and students cannot truly consent to being abused or risking their lives. This legal principle is vital for protecting victims in Peach County from being blamed for the actions of their abusers.

Our firm’s federal court admission and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) provide us with the authority to pursue hazing cases nationwide, including for families in Peach County, Georgia. The legal principles of negligence and accountability are universal, and we leverage our expertise to ensure victims receive justice, regardless of state lines.

Why Attorney911 Is the Obvious Choice for Peach County Families

When hazing strikes, the choice of legal representation can define the outcome for your family. For families in Peach County, Georgia, seeking justice after a hazing incident, Attorney911 offers an unparalleled combination of expertise, aggression, and compassionate advocacy. We are not just lawyers; we are relentless advocates who have dedicated our careers to fighting for victims against the powerful.

Here’s why Attorney911 is uniquely positioned to represent Peach County hazing victims:

  1. Active Hazing Litigation Experts: We aren’t just reading about hazing; we’re in the trenches. Our firm is currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical; we are actively using these strategies, challenging powerful defendants, and pursuing every avenue of justice RIGHT NOW. Peach County families benefit directly from this cutting-edge, real-world litigation experience. We know what it takes because we’re doing it.
  2. Former Insurance Defense Insiders: Both of our lead attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, bring invaluable insider knowledge. They honed their skills defending insurance companies—Ralph for many years and Lupe at a national defense firm, Litchfield Cavo LLP. This means they know the insurance companies’ playbooks intimately. They understand how adjusters value claims, the strategies defense attorneys use to minimize payouts, and the pressure points that lead to favorable settlements. This “inside baseball” knowledge is an unfair advantage for our Peach County clients.
  3. Aggressive & Experienced Trial Attorneys: With over 25 years of courtroom experience, Ralph Manginello is a battle-tested litigator. His experience ranges from managing mass tort litigation against corporate giants like BP after the Texas City explosion to successfully proving criminal cases. Lupe Peña, with over 12 years of experience, is renowned for his “outwork, outsmart, outfight” philosophy. For Peach County families, this means having lawyers who are not afraid to take your case to trial if institutions refuse to offer fair compensation.
  4. Nationwide Reach with Federal Authority: While based in Texas, our federal court admissions (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) and dual-state bar licenses (Texas AND New York) allow us to represent victims across America, including Peach County. Hazing is a national problem, and we have the authority and willingness to travel to Peach County for depositions, meetings, and trials, or conduct remote consultations to make sure you get the best representation available.
  5. Data-Driven Litigation Strategy: We don’t guess; we know. We maintain one of the most comprehensive private databases of Greek organizations, their corporate structures, and their hazing histories. This intelligence allows us to identify and target every liable entity, from national headquarters to local housing corporations and individual perpetrators, ensuring no one hides from accountability. Peach County families are protected by this granular understanding of the Greek life ecosystem.
  6. Unwavering Client Advocacy: We treat our clients like family. Our numerous 5-star Google reviews and testimonials consistently highlight our commitment to communication, responsiveness, and genuine care. As many clients attest, “You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” For frightened parents in Peach County, this means a warm, empathetic team ready to guide you through every step of this difficult journey.
  7. Contingency Fee Basis: No Upfront Cost: We understand that dealing with medical bills and emotional trauma is already a burden. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means Peach County families pay absolutely nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This removes financial barriers and ensures that justice is accessible to everyone, regardless of their economic situation.
  8. Hazing-Specific Expertise: Our deep knowledge of hazing-related injuries like rhabdomyolysis, the legal complexities of university liability, and the tactics employed by national Greek organizations is a crucial differentiator. We understand the physical, psychological, and financial tolls of hazing, ensuring that every aspect of your damages is aggressively pursued.
  9. Bilingual Services (Se Habla Español): For Spanish-speaking families in Peach County, Lupe Peña’s fluency in Spanish ensures seamless communication and culturally sensitive representation, breaking down language barriers to justice.

The Attorney911 Approach: First, Fast, Decisive

When a legal emergency strikes, especially one as traumatic as hazing, you need a firm that acts with urgency and precision. Our approach for Peach County hazing victims is clear:

  • Move FIRST: We secure your legal rights immediately, often sending preservation letters to prevent spoliation of evidence.
  • Move FAST: We begin aggressive investigation, gathering critical evidence like medical records, communications, and witness statements before they disappear.
  • Move DECISIVELY: We identify every liable party, leverage our intelligence databases, and build an airtight case to maximize your compensation and hold institutions accountable.

Peach County deserves the kind of aggressive, sophisticated, and compassionate legal representation that Attorney911 provides. We came to Houston and we are bringing the fight to every campus and every chapter that allows hazing to continue, including those in and around Peach County, Georgia.

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

The moments immediately following a hazing incident are critical. What you do, or don’t do, can significantly impact your ability to seek justice and compensation. For parents and victims in Peach County, Georgia, we offer this guide for immediate action. Do not delay; evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and legal deadlines can pass.

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Medical Attention

Your child’s health and safety are paramount. Even if injuries seem minor, or if psychological trauma is the primary concern, seek medical evaluation immediately.

  • Go to the Emergency Room: If there are physical injuries, signs of illness, or severe pain (like muscle soreness from overexertion, brown urine), go to the nearest emergency room in Peach County or any nearby medical facility such as Piedmont Macon Medical Center or Navicent Health in Macon.
  • Document Everything: Ensure all symptoms, injuries, and the suspected cause (hazing) are documented in medical records. Obtain copies of all hospital records, doctor’s notes, test results (like creatine kinase levels for rhabdomyolysis), and discharge summaries.
  • Seek Mental Health Support: Hazing often leaves deep psychological scars. Consult with a mental health professional (therapist, counselor, psychiatrist) in Peach County or nearby. Document all diagnoses, treatment plans, and therapy sessions.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence Immediately

Digital and physical evidence is crucial. Do NOT delete anything.

  • Secure Communications: This is perhaps the most vital step.
    • Text Messages & Messaging Apps: Save every text message, GroupMe chat, Snapchat conversation, Instagram DM, WhatsApp chat, and any other digital communication related to the hazing. Take screenshots of these messages, making sure dates and senders are visible.
    • Social Media: Preserve any posts, photos, or videos from the fraternity/sorority’s accounts or individual members’ accounts that relate to the pledge process, events, or activities. Be cautious about your child’s own social media presence; anything posted can potentially be used by the defense.
    • Emails: Save all emails from the fraternity/sorority, national organization, or university.
  • Photos and Videos:
    • Injuries: Take clear, well-lit photos of any physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns) at all stages of healing.
    • Hazing Locations: If safe to do so, discreetly photograph or video relevant locations (fraternity house, off-campus residences, fields, common areas).
    • Physical Objects: Preserve any items related to the hazing (clothing, blindfolds, paddles, containers from forced consumption).
  • Witness Information: Collect names, phone numbers, and email addresses of anyone who witnessed the hazing, other pledges, or even casual observers. Their testimony can be invaluable.
  • Hazing Documents: Save any “pledge manuals,” schedules, rules, creeds, or documents distributed by the organization.
  • Financial & Academic Records:
    • Medical Bills: Keep all bills and receipts for medical treatment.
    • Lost Wages/Opportunities: Document any lost work income, missed internship opportunities, or financial impact due to the hazing and recovery.
    • Academic Impact: Keep records of grades, enrollment status, and any scholarships or financial aid affected.

Step 3: Avoid Communication with the Perpetrators and Institutions

This is a critical step to protect your child’s rights.

  • DO NOT Communicate with the Fraternity/Sorority: Do not contact the chapter, its officers, individual members, or alumni. They will attempt to control the narrative, pressure your child, or destroy evidence.
  • DO NOT Engage with University Administration Alone: Do not give any statements to university officials (Dean of Students, Greek Life office, Title IX coordinator) without legal counsel. While reporting to the university might be a requirement, your attorney can guide this process to protect your child’s legal interests.
  • DO NOT Sign Anything: Do not sign any documents, releases, or agreements provided by the fraternity, national organization, or university without our review. You could inadvertently waive your legal rights.
  • DO NOT Post on Social Media: Refrain from posting anything about the incident, your child’s condition, or the fraternity on any social media platforms. Anything posted can be used against your case.
  • DO NOT Delete Anything: Never delete messages, photos, or posts related to the hazing. This can be considered spoliation of evidence and severely harm your case.

Step 4: Contact Attorney911 Immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

Time is of the essence. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin building your case.

  • Free Consultation: We offer a free, confidential consultation to families in Peach County. There is no obligation, and it allows us to assess the viability of your case and advise you on the best course of action.
  • Contingency Fee: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This removes all financial barriers, enabling you to pursue justice without added stress.
  • Statute of Limitations: Most states, including Georgia, have a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases. This means you generally have 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. Evidence disappears quickly, so acting fast is crucial.
  • Nationwide Service: Even though we are based in Texas, our federal court authority and willingness to travel mean we can represent clients in Peach County, Georgia, and across the nation. We can conduct video consultations for your convenience and will travel to Peach County for depositions or trial if necessary.

Our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, are ready to provide the aggressive, compassionate representation your family deserves. We are fighting this fight right now for Leonel Bermudez, and we will bring that same dedication to Peach County families.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline in Peach County

If you are a parent or a victim of hazing in Peach County, Georgia, your legal emergency demands an immediate response. You are not alone, and you do not have to face this nightmare by yourself. Attorney911 is here to provide the aggressive, expert legal representation you need to hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the justice your family deserves.

Peach County Families: Have you or your child been severely injured or traumatized by hazing at a university or organization in Georgia or beyond?

We are not just a law firm; we are relentless advocates for victims. Our attorneys are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against a major national fraternity and university, positioning us at the forefront of this fight. We’re ready to bring that same level of dedication, expertise, and aggressive pursuit of justice to your case in Peach County.

Call Now for a FREE, Confidential Consultation

Your Legal Emergency Hotline for Peach County Hazing Victims:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Email Us Directly:
ralph@atty911.com

Visit Our Website for More Information:
https://attorney911.com

We are available 24/7 for Peach County hazing emergencies. When you call, you’ll speak directly with a team that understands the urgency and sensitivity of your situation.

Our Commitment to Peach County Families: No Upfront Costs

We understand that pursuing legal action, especially against powerful institutions, can feel financially impossible during a time of crisis. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis.

What this means for Peach County families:

  • $0 Upfront Costs: You pay absolutely nothing to hire us or begin your case.
  • We Only Get Paid If You Win: Our legal fees are a percentage of the compensation we secure for you. If we don’t win, you don’t owe us anything.
  • Risk-Free Representation: We bear the financial risk, allowing you to focus on your family’s healing and recovery without added financial burden.
  • For a deeper understanding of how this works, watch our video “How Contingency Fees Work” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

Nationwide Reach, Local Dedication for Peach County

While our headquarters are in Houston, Texas, our capabilities extend far beyond. Hazing is a pervasive national problem, affecting universities and colleges in Georgia, including Mercer University, Fort Valley State University, Middle Georgia State University, and Georgia College & State University, which are often attended by students from Peach County.

  • Federal Court Authority: Our admission to the U.S. District Court allows us to pursue cases in federal jurisdiction nationwide.
  • Dual-State Bar Licenses: With licenses in both Texas and New York, our firm possesses a strategic advantage in litigating against national fraternity and sorority organizations, many of which are headquartered or incorporated outside of Georgia.
  • Flexible Consultations: We offer convenient video consultations so Peach County families can meet with us remotely from the comfort of their homes.
  • Willingness to Travel: Our attorneys are prepared to travel to Peach County, Georgia, for critical depositions, client meetings, and trial proceedings to ensure you receive the most effective representation. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

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

  • Fraternities and sororities near Peach County
  • Peach County sports teams at high schools and colleges
  • Marching bands and other student organizations
  • ROTC programs and military academies
  • Any group that uses abuse, coercion, or ritualistic degradation for initiation or membership.

To Other Victims of the University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi Hazing: We Know You’re Out There.

If you were a pledge, a member, or a witness to the hazing at the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi chapter, especially during the Fall 2025 semester, and particularly in the incidents involving Leonel Bermudez, we urge you to come forward. We heard Lupe Pena say, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Leonel was not the sole victim. The lawsuit details other harrowing incidents, including a pledge collapsing from exhaustion and another being hog-tied. If you endured similar abuse or witnessed these acts, you have rights, and your testimony can be crucial in holding all responsible parties accountable. We can represent you, protect your privacy, and ensure your story is heard. Let’s work together to bring them ALL to justice.

Your legal emergency is our call to action. Contact Attorney911 today. We are here to fight for Peach County victims and families, making sure that those who perpetrate or enable hazing crimes pay the price.

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