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, to grow, to thrive. Instead, they were tortured. They were hazed. They were injured, or worse, taken from you forever. We understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help families in Quitman County fight back against the culture of abuse that plagues our college campuses.

We are Attorney911, and our firm is built on immediate, aggressive, and professional help for legal emergencies. For families in Quitman County and across the nation, when hazing turns deadly or causes life-altering injuries, we move first, fast, and decisively.

The Landmark Case That Shows Quitman County What We Fight For

Our commitment isn’t theoretical. We’re actively fighting this battle right now in a case that stands as a stark warning to every family in Quitman County: the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston lawsuit. This isn’t a hypothetical situation; it’s a $10 million lawsuit filed in November 2025 in Houston, a city where many students from Quitman County pursue higher education. This case embodies everything we stand for: aggressive representation of hazing victims, data-driven litigation strategy, and relentless pursuit of accountability for every entity responsible for hazing injuries.

Leonel Bermudez was just like any other young person from Quitman County, with hopes and dreams of a college experience. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member who wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet, planning to transfer for the upcoming semester. Yet, during the fall of 2025, he accepted a bid to join the Beta Nu chapter of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. What followed was an egregious pattern of abuse that left him hospitalized.

Leonel was subjected to unthinkable acts: he was waterboarded with a garden hose, hog-tied, and forced to consume food until he vomited. He endured psychological torture, sleep deprivation, and relentless physical exertion that pushed his body to its absolute limits. His muscles broke down, leading to the severe and life-threatening condition known as rhabdomyolysis, which ultimately caused acute kidney failure. He spent three nights and four days in the hospital, his young life hanging in the balance, a stark image of the dangers hidden behind Greek letters.

Within weeks of Leonel’s hazing being reported, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter was suspended, its members voted to surrender their charter, and the chapter was permanently closed. Criminal referrals were initiated, and our firm, Attorney911, filed a $10 million lawsuit naming the university, the national fraternity, the housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity members.

This case is irrefutable proof that Attorney911 is not a firm that merely talks about hazing litigation. We are actively fighting these battles in court right now. We tell Leonel’s story so that parents in Quitman County understand that this brand of brutal hazing is happening today, at universities their children might attend. And we want them to know that Attorney911 is the firm that fights back on behalf of families like theirs.

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, spoke to ABC13 about Leonel’s harrowing ordeal: “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 Peña, our associate attorney, echoed our firm’s commitment in his statement 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.”

The sheer brutality of what Leonel endured is a chilling reminder for every parent in Quitman County. The same national fraternities operate at colleges and universities throughout Georgia. The same dangerous “traditions” can infect chapters at institutions where your children might attend. And the same institutional negligence that allowed hazing to run rampant at the University of Houston can exist at campuses across our state and country.

We are fighting for Leonel, and we are ready to fight for your child in Quitman County with the same aggression and dedication. For more details on the unfolding lawsuit, you can read the reports from ABC13 Houston and KHOU 11.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

Many parents in Quitman County might imagine hazing as harmless pranks or mild inconveniences. The reality, as Leonel Bermudez’s case tragically illustrates, is far more sinister and dangerous. It is not about building character or fostering brotherhood; it is about systematic abuse, psychological torment, and often physical battery that can lead to severe injury or even death. This is not the “tradition” our children deserve.

The Disturbing Hazing Activities Exposed in Our Lawsuit

The details of Leonel’s experience paint a vivid picture of modern hazing:

• Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose.” This isn’t a prank; it’s a torture technique. Pledges were sprayed in the face with a hose while performing calisthenics, forced to run repeatedly under the constant threat of being waterboarded. When applied to enemy combatants, this is considered a war crime. It was inflicted upon a young man trying to find friends.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Leonel was made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. Then, in a horrific display of degradation, he was “forced to continue running sprints while clearly in physical distress” and had to “lie in vomit-soaked grass after vomiting.”
• Extreme Physical Punishment: This included performing over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (running drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-your-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. Pledges were forced to recite the fraternity creed while enduring this relentless physical torment. Leonel was finally pushed until “he could not stand without help.” Alarmingly, another pledge “lost consciousness and collapsed” during these workouts just weeks earlier, highlighting the pattern of extreme and dangerous physical hazing. Furthermore, the lawsuit alleges pledges were “being struck with wooden paddles.”
• Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was stripped to his underwear in cold weather, a deeply humiliating act. He was forced to carry a fanny pack containing “objects of a sexual nature at all times.” In another incident, a pledge was “hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.” These acts aim to break a person down mentally and emotionally, fostering a climate of fear.
• Sleep Deprivation & Exhaustion: Leonel was forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, leading to significant exhaustion that impacted his daily life. This deliberate deprivation of rest further weakens pledges, making them more susceptible to control and abuse.
• Control and Servitude: Pledges were subjected to an enforced dress code, mandatory study hours, and weekly interviews with members. These seemingly minor controls contribute to a complete subjugation of personal autonomy, a hallmark of hazing cultures.

The Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

The physical abuse Leonel endured directly led to severe medical consequences. Rhabdomyolysis is a breakdown of muscle tissue that releases damaging proteins (myoglobin) into the bloodstream. This protein then clogs the kidneys, leading to acute kidney failure, a life-threatening condition. Leonel’s passing of “brown urine” was a classic sign of myoglobin in his system, confirming the extreme muscle damage. His “very high creatine kinase levels” further affirmed the diagnosis. He required intensive medical treatment and spent four days hospitalized, facing the real possibility of permanent kidney damage. This is the same medical condition our firm has experience litigating, and Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases.

The Chilling Reality for Quitman County Families

This nightmare in Houston reflects a national crisis. For parents in Quitman County, it’s vital to recognize that this isn’t confined to distant campuses. Hazing is a pervasive issue at colleges and universities across the United States.

• It’s assault, battery, and torture. It’s not a misunderstanding.
• It creates systematic fear and psychological damage. Victims are often too afraid of retribution or social isolation to speak out.
• The statistics are alarming: Over half of all students in Greek organizations experience hazing, and nearly every year since 2000 has seen at least one hazing death. 95% of students who are hazed do not report it, often out of shame, fear, or a misguided sense of loyalty.
• It’s a failure of institutions. Universities and national organizations know hazing happens. They have policies, but often choose not to enforce them until tragedy strikes.

This is what hazing looks like today. It’s violent, degrading, and poses extreme risks to students’ lives and well-being. For families in Quitman County whose child has been subjected to such horrors, we are here to offer real help and fight for justice.

Who Is Responsible? Holding Every Party Accountable

One of the most complex aspects of hazing litigation is identifying and holding every responsible party accountable. The individuals who directly engage in hazing are certainly liable, but the web of responsibility extends much further, encompassing local chapters, national organizations, and the universities themselves. Our firm’s data-driven approach ensures that no stone is left unturned in our pursuit of justice for Quitman County victims.

In the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, we are pursuing a comprehensive list of defendants, demonstrating our strategy of identifying every single entity that bears legal responsibility.

• The Local Chapter: The Beta Nu chapter of Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston directly organized and conducted the hazing activities. Their leadership, particularly the chapter president and pledgemaster, were central to directing these abuses. Individual members who participated in or failed to stop the hazing are also directly liable.
• National Organization: Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., the national headquarters, is a key defendant. They had a duty to supervise their local chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, and ensure the safety of their members and pledges. Their immediate suspension and dissolution of the UH chapter after the incident indicate an admission that their policies were violated and that serious wrongdoing occurred. As KHOU 11 reported, the national organization is alleged to have “enabled the harmful environment by failing to enforce anti-hazing rules and policies despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'” They knew, or should have known, given their documented history of hazing deaths, like Andrew Coffey in 2017.
• The University: The University of Houston and its Board of Regents are also named defendants. The university owned and directly controlled the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place. This establishes a clear case for premises liability. Furthermore, universities have a responsibility to oversee Greek life and ensure the safety of all students. The university’s own spokesperson admitted the incidents were “deeply disturbing” and “a clear violation of our community standards.” Their failure to protect Leonel, especially given a prior hazing hospitalization at UH in 2017, demonstrates institutional negligence.
• Former Members and Their Spouses: Our lawsuit uniquely targets former fraternity members and their spouses who hosted hazing sessions at their private residence. This expands the net of accountability, showing that facilitation of hazing, even by non-students, can lead to liability. This is crucial for Quitman County residents to understand, as hazing often extends beyond campus property.
• Insurance Carriers: Behind every organizational defendant lies their liability insurance. National fraternity organizations and universities often hold multi-million dollar policies designed to cover legal liabilities. As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña possess invaluable insider knowledge of how these insurance companies operate, allowing us to effectively negotiate and, if necessary, litigate against them. We know their “playbook” because we helped write it, and now we use that knowledge to maximize recovery for Quitman County victims.

This multi-pronged approach ensures that we don’t just target the most obvious perpetrators. We meticulously identify every party that contributed to the harm, creating the broadest possible net of accountability. For families in Quitman County, this means pursuing justice against the “deep pockets” that can truly make a difference—national organizations with millions in assets, and universities with substantial endowments. It’s not about bankrupting individual college students; it’s about forcing systemic change by holding powerful institutions responsible.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof

For families in Quitman County who are grappling with the trauma of hazing, understanding the potential for real, impactful legal outcomes can provide a flicker of hope. The aggressive litigation we pursue is not just about justice; it’s about securing significant compensation that reflects the true cost of these devastating injuries and sometimes, death. Hazing costs human lives and health, and our legal system has recognized that it must cost millions from those responsible.

The Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, with its $10 million demand, is firmly rooted in established legal precedent. We draw strength from multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements that have held fraternities and universities accountable across the nation. These cases send a powerful message to any institution operating near Quitman County: hazing will not be tolerated, and the financial consequences will be severe.

Landmark Settlements & Verdicts: They Will Pay

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): $10.1 Million+
  Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old student, died from alcohol poisoning after a Pi Kappa Alpha “Big/Little” hazing event where he was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol. The tragic outcome resulted in a combined settlement of over $10.1 million. Bowling Green State University paid $2.9 million, and Pi Kappa Alpha National, along with individual members, contributed over $7.2 million. This case directly supports our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez, showcasing that even for non-fatal, yet severe, injuries like rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, multi-million dollar recoveries are achievable. This massive payout happened at Bowling Green State, a public university just like many institutions where students from Quitman County might attend.
• Maxwell Gruver – Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017): $6.1 Million Jury Verdict
  Maxwell Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, died after a Phi Delta Theta hazing ritual known as “Bible Study,” where he was forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol for answering questions incorrectly. A jury awarded his family $6.1 million, and one fraternity member was criminally convicted of negligent homicide. This case is crucial because it was a jury verdict, demonstrating that ordinary citizens, when presented with the facts of hazing, are willing to impose significant penalties. Following this tragedy, Louisiana passed the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony, a testament to the power of these lawsuits to drive legislative change.
• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017): $110 Million+ (Estimated)
  Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died after a Beta Theta Pi hazing event where he was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes, leading to a blood alcohol content of 0.36. He fell down stairs repeatedly, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911, and the entire horrific ordeal was captured on surveillance cameras. The civil settlement in this case was confidential but is widely estimated to be over $110 million. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, including involuntary manslaughter. Pennsylvania then enacted the “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law,” a comprehensive piece of legislation with felony charges for hazing. The sheer scale of this settlement shows that when the evidence is strong and the conduct is egregious, the financial consequences can be staggering.
• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Confidential Settlement
  Tragically, Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge of Pi Kappa Phi, the same national fraternity involved in the Bermudez case, died from acute alcohol poisoning after a “Big Brother Night” in 2017. He was forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon. Nine fraternity members were criminally charged. While the civil settlement was confidential, this case is invaluable for two reasons: it demonstrates Pi Kappa Phi’s documented history of deadly hazing, creating powerful pattern evidence against the national organization, and it shows that even where criminal prosecutions occur, civil remedies are still pursued.
• Adam Oakes – Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021): $4 Million+ Settlement
  Adam Oakes, a freshman at VCU, died in 2021 after a Delta Chi hazing event involving forced alcohol consumption. His family sued for $28 million and ultimately secured a settlement in excess of $4 million in October 2024. This recent settlement underscores that substantial compensation is awarded even in cases against individual chapters and universities. The Oakes family went on to advocate for “Adam’s Law” in Virginia, further demonstrating the long-term impact of these cases.

Why Precedent Matters for Quitman County Families

These cases are not just statistics; they are human narratives of families who bravely fought for justice against powerful institutions. They prove:

1. Our $10 Million Demand is Realistic: The Stone Foltz settlement of $10.1 million, involving a death by alcohol poisoning, directly supports the valuation of Leonel’s severe, life-altering injuries even though he survived.
2. Universities and Nationals Are Held Accountable: In many cases, both the university and the national fraternity contributed to the settlements, demonstrating that our multi-defendant strategy is effective.
3. Hazing is Foreseeable: The repeated incidents, particularly Andrew Coffey’s death in the same national fraternity, establish a pattern of negligence and foreseeability that strengthens claims for punitive damages.
4. Juries Hate Hazing: The Max Gruver verdict shows that when presented with the horrifying facts, juries are willing to impose multi-million dollar judgments to punish and deter.
5. These Cases Drive Change: These lawsuits have led to legislation like the Max Gruver Act, the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law, and Collin’s Law, creating felony hazing charges across states – a clear indication of their societal impact.

For parents in Quitman County, this means that the legal system is equipped to deliver profound accountability. These multi-million dollar outcomes not only provide compensation for medical bills, lost potential, and immeasurable suffering, but they also force institutions to confront their deadly cultures. When you choose Attorney911, you choose a firm that understands these precedents and knows how to apply them to your Quitman County hazing case.

Texas Law Protects You: Consent is NOT a Defense

For families in Quitman County, understanding the legal framework surrounding hazing is crucial, as it often contradicts common misconceptions perpetuated by fraternities and universities. Texas has robust anti-hazing laws that empower victims and their families, explicitly rejecting the notion that hazing is a consensual activity.

Texas Hazing Laws: A Shield for Quitman County Students

Our firm is based in Texas, and we leverage the full force of the Texas Education Code in our hazing litigation. For Quitman County families, it’s important to note that while we are highlighting Texas law, the core principles of negligence, premises liability, and the criminal nature of hazing exist in most states, and our federal court authority allows us to pursue these cases nationwide.

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

• Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Texas law defines hazing as “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act occurring on or off campus that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in an organization.” This includes physical brutality, sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, extreme calisthenics, forced consumption of food or alcohol, and any activity that violates the Penal Code.
  • Quitman County Relevance: Leonel Bermudez’s case perfectly fits this definition. The waterboarding, 500 squats, forced eating, wooden paddles, and sleep deprivation all constitute illegal hazing under Texas law. The hazing your child experienced in Quitman County, regardless of where they attend college, likely falls under similar definitions in other states.
• Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Individuals who engage in hazing can face criminal charges ranging from a Class B Misdemeanor (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine) for participating, to a State Jail Felony (180 days to 2 years state jail, $10,000 fine) if hazing causes death. If hazing causes “serious bodily injury,” it becomes a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
  • Quitman County Relevance: In Leonel’s case, his rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure undeniably constitute “serious bodily injury,” meaning the individual perpetrators could face Class A Misdemeanor charges. This highlights that hazing is not just a campus policy violation, but a criminal act, the severity of which we communicate to legal authorities.
• Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): The law holds organizations responsible if they “condone or encourage hazing” or if an officer, member, pledge, or alumnus commits or assists in hazing. Penalties include fines up to $10,000 and the denial of permission to operate on campus.
  • Quitman County Relevance: This directly applies to the Pi Kappa Phi chapter and the national organization. It explains why Attorney911 targets both the local chapter and Pi Kappa Phi National—the law clearly states they are accountable.
• University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Universities are legally mandated to report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days of becoming aware. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor.
  • Quitman County Relevance: This ensures that universities cannot simply sweep hazing under the rug. Transparency is required, and we use these reporting requirements to hold institutions accountable for their knowledge and actions.

The Decisive Factor: Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154)

This particular section of Texas law is perhaps the most critical for Quitman County families to understand. The first line of defense from fraternities, universities, and their lawyers often revolves around the idea that the victim “consented” to the hazing, that they “knew what they were getting into,” or “could have left.”

Texas law 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 powerful legal principle dismantles the primary excuse used by perpetrators. It means that whether a student felt pressured, intimidated, or even willingly participated, the act of hazing remains illegal, and those responsible are still liable. You cannot legally consent to be abused, assaulted, or tortured. The Texas Legislature, recognizing the inherent power imbalance and coercive nature of hazing, explicitly removed consent as a legal shield.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Prosecution

Even if criminal charges are not pursued or result in acquittal, victims in Quitman County can still pursue substantial civil lawsuits. Our firm builds cases based on multiple theories of liability:

• Negligence Claims: We argue that the university, national organization, and individual members had a duty of care to protect students, they breached that duty through their actions or inactions, causing injury, and resulting in damages.
• Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on university-owned or controlled property, like the Pi Kappa Phi house at UH, the institution has a duty to provide a safe environment. Their failure to do so makes them liable.
• Negligent Supervision: National organizations are often liable for failing to adequately supervise their chapters. Likewise, universities can be held responsible for failing to properly oversee Greek life on their campuses.
• Assault and Battery: These are intentional torts. Every individual who participated in the physical acts of hazing (waterboarding, paddling, forced exercise) can be sued for assault and battery.
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: The extreme and outrageous conduct typical of hazing, such as psychological torture and humiliation, can lead to claims for intentional infliction of emotional distress, covering the severe mental trauma victims endure.

These civil claims ensure that even if criminal justice falls short, financial accountability can still be achieved. For families in Quitman County, this means a path to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain, suffering, and the profound psychological damage hazing inflicts. Attorney911 is expert at navigating this complex legal landscape to deliver justice.

Why Attorney911: Your Unfair Advantage in Quitman County

When your child is a victim of hazing, you need a legal team with unmatched expertise, unwavering dedication, and an intimate understanding of how to take on powerful institutions. For families in Quitman County, Attorney911 isn’t just another personal injury law firm; we are uniquely positioned to be your partner in this fight, providing an “unfair advantage” that other firms simply cannot match.

Our Core Differentiators: What Makes Us Different for Quitman County Families

1. 25+ Years of Battle-Tested Courtroom Experience: Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, brings over two decades of aggressive litigation experience. He is a seasoned trial attorney who isn’t afraid to take cases to court when necessary. This experience, honed in countless courtrooms across Texas and in federal courts, ensures Quitman County families have a formidable advocate by their side.
2. Former Insurance Defense Insight: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are former insurance defense attorneys. This is not a coincidence; it’s a strategic advantage. They have spent years on the “other side,” learning the tactics, strategies, and internal playbooks used by insurance companies to deny or minimize claims. Now, they use that invaluable insider knowledge to dismantle those defenses and maximize recovery for our clients. They know exactly how university and fraternity defense attorneys in Quitman County will try to fight back, and they know how to counter every move.
3. Federal Court Admissions: Both Ralph and Lupe are admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and Ralph has experience in the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals. This federal authority means we can pursue complex hazing cases in federal court, which is often necessary when national organizations and multi-state university systems are involved, enabling us to represent Quitman County families regardless of where the incident occurred.
4. Dual-State Bar Admission: Ralph Manginello is licensed to practice in both Texas AND New York. This dual-state bar admission provides a significant strategic advantage, especially when dealing with national fraternities and sororities, many of which are headquartered or have substantial operations outside of Texas. This broad reach strengthens our ability to pursue justice for Quitman County victims against defendants located anywhere in the country.
5. Se Habla Español: Our bilingual staff, including Lupe Peña who is fluent in Spanish, ensures that language is never a barrier to justice. We proudly serve Spanish-speaking families in Quitman County, providing comprehensive legal services in their native language, from initial consultations to ongoing case communications.
6. Nationwide Hazing Expertise: We aren’t just reading about hazing cases; we are actively litigating one of the nation’s most impactful hazing lawsuits right now—the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston case. The aggressive, data-driven strategies we are deploying in this $10 million lawsuit are precisely the same ones that Quitman County families will benefit from when they choose us.

The Attorney911 Approach for Quitman County Hazing Victims

When a legal emergency strikes—whether it’s on a Georgia highway, a Quitman County campus, or a fraternity house anywhere in America—we move FIRST, FAST, and DECISIVELY.

• Expert Witness Network: We build our cases with a robust network of expert witnesses, including medical professionals who can detail conditions like rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, Greek life culture experts who understand hazing dynamics, and specialists in institutional negligence.
• Immediate Evidence Preservation: We instruct clients to preserve every piece of evidence—texts, photos, medical records, witness statements—and our team acts quickly to secure crucial information that can disappear. You can learn more about documenting evidence from our YouTube video, “Using Your Phone to Document Evidence,” available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs.
• Negotiation from Strength: Our current $10 million hazing case gives us immense leverage. Defense attorneys and insurance companies know we mean business, which often leads to more favorable settlement negotiations for our clients.
• Willingness to Travel to Quitman County: Distance is not a barrier to justice. Our attorneys will travel to Quitman County for depositions, important meetings, and trials when the case demands it, ensuring local presence and commitment.
• Remote Consultations: For the convenience of Quitman County families, we offer seamless remote consultations via video, making it easy to connect with our legal experts regardless of your location.
• Contingency Fees: We understand the financial strain that a hazing incident can place on a family. That’s why we take hazing cases on contingency. Quitman County families pay $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless and until you get paid. This policy, explained further in our video “How Contingency Fees Work” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc), means your financial situation will never prevent you from accessing top-tier legal representation.

Attorney Profiles: The Powerhouse Team for Quitman County

Ralph P. Manginello – Managing Partner
Ralph’s a relentless trial attorney with over 25 years of experience. He was involved in the multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP following the Texas City refinery explosion, demonstrating his capacity to take on massive corporate defendants – a skill perfectly suited for battling national fraternities and universities. His background in journalism also equips him with a keen eye for investigation and the ability to tell compelling stories, a crucial asset in hazing cases where institutions try to hide the truth. As a father of three, he deeply understands the emotional toll hazing takes on families. His induction into the Cheshire Academy Hall of Fame further speaks to his dedication and leadership. Quitman County families can reach Ralph directly at ralph@atty911.com or his direct line, 1-888-ATTY-911. You can learn more about Ralph’s extensive experience on his bio page: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

Lupe Eleno Peña – Associate Attorney
Lupe is a male attorney (important to note, as the name “Lupe” can sometimes be confused) with over 12 years of litigation experience, bringing an invaluable “insider’s perspective” to our firm. Before joining Attorney911, he worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm. He knows precisely how insurance companies value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize payouts. Now, he uses that intelligence to “outwork, outsmart, and outfight” the other side for our clients. His expertise in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases, combined with his finance background, is crucial for calculating the full scope of damages in hazing cases. As a third-generation Texan fluent in Spanish, Lupe provides crucial support to Hispanic families in Quitman County and beyond, ensuring no language barrier impedes justice. Quitman County families can reach Lupe directly at lupe@atty911.com or 1-888-ATTY-911. Learn more about Lupe’s strategic background at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

Together, Ralph and Lupe form a formidable team, a true “insurance counter-intelligence system” on the side of victims. Their combined experience and unique insights mean that Quitman County families have an unparalleled advantage in fighting for justice. We don’t just see your child as a case number; we see them as individuals who deserve aggressive, compassionate advocacy.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Guidance for Quitman County Families

If your child in Quitman County has been a victim of hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. While the emotional toll can be overwhelming, quick and decisive action can dramatically impact the strength of your legal case. We provide clear, actionable steps for Quitman County families, many of whom may be searching for help in the middle of the night.

Immediate Steps for Quitman County Hazing Victims:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Your child’s health is the absolute top priority. Even if injuries seem minor or hidden, a full medical evaluation is crucial. Some severe conditions, like rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure that Leonel Bermudez suffered, might have delayed symptoms. Medical records provide irrefutable proof of injury and link them directly to the hazing incident. Do not delay, as any gap in treatment can be used by the defense to argue your child wasn’t seriously harmed.
2. Preserve All Evidence – Document Everything: Hazing incidents often leave a digital trail.
   • Photos & Videos: Take pictures of any physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns) immediately, and continue documenting their healing progression. If safe and possible, take photos or videos of the hazing location, any equipment used, or any evidence left behind (e.g., alcohol containers). If your child is incapacitated, ask a trusted friend or family member to do this. Remember, our video “Using Your Phone to Document Evidence” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides crucial tips.
   • Communications: Crucially, save every single text message, GroupMe chat, Snapchat, Instagram DM, email, or any other digital communication related to the hazing. Do NOT delete anything, as this could be considered spoliation of evidence. These messages often contain direct instructions, threats, or peer pressure related to the hazing.
   • Witness Information: Collect the names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the hazing, other pledges, or anyone with knowledge of the fraternity’s activities.
   • Documents: Any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or fraternity documents given to your child are important.
   • Financial Records: Keep track of medical bills, prescription costs, lost wages (if your child missed work), and any tuition or fees for semesters disrupted by the hazing.
3. Do NOT Communicate with the Fraternity, University, or Their Lawyers: Once an incident occurs, fraternities and universities will begin their own investigations, often advised by their legal teams.
   • Do NOT give any statements, written or recorded, without consulting an attorney first.
   • Do NOT sign any documents presented by the fraternity or university, as these might waive your child’s rights.
   • Do NOT discuss the incident with fraternity members, alumni, or university staff other than what is minimally required in an emergency or for medical treatment. Remember, their primary goal is to protect their institution, not your child. Our video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) emphasizes these critical warnings.
4. Stay Off Social Media: Posting about the incident, displaying your feelings, or even just showing photos of your child “looking fine” can be used against your case by the defense. It’s best to maintain a low profile until your legal counsel advises otherwise.
5. Contact an Experienced Hazing Litigation Attorney Immediately: This is perhaps the most critical step. Time is of the essence in hazing cases.
   • Statute of Limitations: In Georgia, injured individuals generally have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death, the deadline is also typically two years from the date of death. This deadline, or “statute of limitations,” is a real and strict legal barrier. If you miss it, you lose your right to sue forever. Our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c) explains this in detail.
   • Evidence Disappears: The longer you wait, the more likely physical evidence will be cleaned up, digital evidence deleted, and memories of witnesses fade.
   • Expert Guidance: An experienced attorney familiar with hazing litigation can guide you through these complex steps, protect your rights, and build a strong case.

Why Acting Quickly Matters for Quitman County Families

For Quitman County families, the shock and pain of a hazing incident can make prompt action difficult. However, consider Leonel Bermudez’s case: he was hospitalized on November 6th, and our firm filed his lawsuit within weeks. This swift action allowed us to secure critical details and put defendants on notice. This is how you protect your legal rights.

Hazing victims often hesitate to come forward due to fear of retaliation, embarrassment, or a misguided sense of loyalty. We want to assure you that your child’s safety and well-being are paramount. When you contact Attorney911, you are taking a courageous step towards justice and accountability. We will protect your privacy, address your concerns about retribution, and aggressively pursue those who inflicted this trauma.

Don’t let fear or uncertainty prevent you from seeking justice. The institutions responsible for hazing thrive on silence. Your voice, backed by our experienced legal team, can be the change that prevents another Quitman County family from enduring this nightmare.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline in Quitman County

If your child in Quitman County has been a victim of hazing, your pain, fear, and anger are valid. You are facing a legal emergency, and you need immediate, aggressive, and professional help. Our firm, Attorney911, is your trusted partner in this fight, ready to stand with you and seek the justice your family deserves.

We are actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston right now. This isn’t just talk; it’s proven action. We know how to build these complex cases, how to hold powerful institutions accountable, and how to achieve significant results that send a clear message: hazing will not be tolerated. Quitman County families deserve nothing less than this same aggressive and expert representation.

Quitman County Families – Call Now for a FREE Consultation

The first step toward justice is to reach out. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to all Quitman County families whose children have been affected by hazing. We listen with compassion, assess your situation, and explain your legal options without any upfront cost or commitment.

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

Email Us: ralph@atty911.com

Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to respond to your hazing emergency in Quitman County. We understand that these tragedies don’t adhere to business hours, and neither do we.

Our Promise to Quitman County Families: Contingency Fees Mean $0 Upfront

We recognize that pursuing legal action, especially against large universities and national organizations, can seem daunting and expensive. That’s why we eliminate the financial barrier. We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis.

• You pay absolutely $0 upfront to hire our firm.
• We only get paid if and when we win your case through a settlement or a verdict.
• Our fees are a percentage of the compensation we recover for you. If we don’t succeed, you owe us nothing for our legal services.
• This ensures that every Quitman County family, regardless of their financial situation, has access to premier legal representation.

We Serve Quitman County Hazing Victims — And Hazing Victims Nationwide

While our primary offices are located in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our reach extends far beyond. Hazing is a national crisis, affecting students at colleges and universities across America, including those that students from Quitman County may attend. We are equipped and committed to representing hazing victims regardless of geographic distance:

• Federal Court Authority: Our admission to U.S. District Courts allows us to pursue cases in federal jurisdiction, which is often necessary when national organizations are involved.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York, providing broader legal scope when facing national fraternities.
• Video Consultations: For the convenience of Quitman County families, we offer secure and confidential video consultations, allowing you to meet with our attorneys from the comfort of your home.
• Travel Commitment: When your case demands it, our attorneys will travel to Quitman County for depositions, crucial client meetings, and trials, ensuring a personalized and dedicated approach. Distance is not a barrier to justice when you choose Attorney911.

We represent victims of hazing in all forms, not just fraternities and sororities. This includes Quitman County sports teams, marching bands, ROTC programs, clubs, and any other student organization that uses abuse as a twisted form of “initiation.”

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

We know Leonel Bermudez was not the only one subjected to this brutal hazing. Our lawsuit details how another pledge collapsed unconscious on October 15th, and others endured the same waterboarding, forced eating, and extreme physical abuse. If you were a victim of the Pi Kappa Phi hazing at the University of Houston, or if you witnessed it, you have rights, too. Do not suffer in silence. Your courage can contribute to holding these perpetrators accountable and creating lasting change.

As Lupe Peña 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.”

Call us. Let us bring your experience to light. Let us bring them all to justice.

Contact Attorney911 today. Your initial consultation is free and confidential. Let us fight for the justice your family deserves.

Web: attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Connect with us on YouTube: For more legal insights and victim guidance, visit our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm