If you’re reading this in Turner County, Georgia, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went off to college, hoping to make lifelong friends and build a future. Instead, they were subjected to abuse, humiliation, and potentially life-threatening harm, all in the name of “tradition.” We understand what you’re going through – the fear, the anger, the overwhelming sense of betrayal. We’re here to help families in Turner County and across the nation fight back against the insidious problem of hazing.

Hazing is not a harmless rite of passage. It is a systematic form of abuse that inflicts deep physical and psychological wounds, often with lifelong consequences. We’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact it has on students and their families. While our firm, Attorney911, is headquartered in Houston, Texas, our reach extends nationwide, and we are committed to bringing justice to hazing victims and their families in Turner County, Georgia, and beyond. We have the experience, the resources, and the unwavering dedication to pursue accountability for those who perpetrate and enable this unacceptable behavior. We know that the same national fraternities and collegiate organizations that have caused harm elsewhere also have chapters in Georgia, and they operate under the same flawed systems that allow hazing to persist.

The Haunting Echoes of Hazing: What Happened to Leonel Bermudez in Houston, and Why It Matters to Turner County

Just weeks ago, a lawsuit seeking $10 million was filed in Harris County, Texas, sending shockwaves through the collegiate Greek community. This isn’t a hypothetical example or a case study from decades past; this is a live, ongoing battle being fought right now by our firm, Attorney911. Our client, Leonel Bermudez, endured weeks of horrific hazing at the hands of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity chapter at the University of Houston, ultimately landing him in the hospital for four agonizing days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

This case is the centerpiece of everything we stand for: aggressive representation of hazing victims, a data-driven litigation strategy, and relentless pursuit of accountability for every single entity responsible for hazing injuries. What happened to Leonel Bermudez in Houston could happen to any student attending a university in or around Turner County, Georgia. The methods may vary, the names might change, but the underlying culture of abuse and institutional negligence remains a terrifying constant.

The nightmare began in September 2025. Leonel Bermudez, a “ghost rush” who was planning to transfer to the University of Houston for the spring semester, accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi. He was eager to make connections and be part of a community. Instead, he was plunged into a nightmare of systematic abuse that lasted for weeks.

The hazing activities he endured were nothing short of torture:

Waterboarding with a Garden Hose: Pledges were subjected to simulated drowning, being sprayed in the face with a hose while performing calisthenics, then forced to run repeatedly under the threat of more waterboarding. This is a practice widely condemned as torture when used on enemy combatants, yet it was inflicted upon young men trying to join a fraternity.
Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Leonel and other pledges were made to consume excessive amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited. Then, in a horrific display of continued abuse, they were forced to continue running sprints while clearly in physical distress, and even made to lie in the vomit-soaked grass.
Extreme Physical Punishment: The hazing included grueling workouts like over 100 push-ups, more than 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (sprinting drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warm-ups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was forced to recite the fraternity creed during these exercises and threatened with immediate expulsion if he stopped. One pledge even lost consciousness during these workouts in mid-October. The physical exertion was so intense that Leonel eventually became so exhausted he could not stand without help. The lawsuit also alleges he was struck with wooden paddles.
Psychological Torture and Humiliation: Leonel was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather and carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature at all times. Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. These acts were designed to degrade, humiliate, and mentally break the pledges.
Sleep Deprivation and Exhaustion: Pledges were forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, disrupting their sleep and leading to chronic exhaustion.

The medical consequences were dire. On November 3, 2025, after a particularly brutal hazing session, Leonel collapsed. By November 6, his condition had worsened dramatically. His mother, seeing his intense muscle soreness, difficulty moving, and passing brown urine – a classic sign of muscle breakdown – rushed him to the hospital. He was immediately diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. For three nights and four days, Leonel remained hospitalized, his body struggling to recover from the trauma it had endured. The long-term risk of permanent kidney damage remains a terrifying concern.

The institutional response was a calculated effort at damage control. Within days of Leonel’s hospitalization, Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters suspended the chapter. On November 14, just one week before our lawsuit was filed, they officially closed the Beta Nu Chapter, making a public statement acknowledging “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” The University of Houston, despite owning the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place, issued a cautious statement calling the events “deeply disturbing” and confirming their own investigation in “coordination with law enforcement.”

This case, Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al., is a $10 million lawsuit naming not just the local chapter, but the Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, its housing corporation, the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity members, including the president, pledgemaster, and even a former member and his spouse who hosted hazing at their residence.

This kind of aggressive, comprehensive legal action is precisely what Attorney911 brings to every hazing case. This isn’t just theory for us; it’s our ongoing mission. We are actively fighting for Leonel Bermudez’s justice in a Harris County Civil District Court, and we are ready to bring that level of fight to families in Turner County, Georgia, whose children have suffered from similar abuses. You can read more about this active litigation in news reports from ABC13 Houston, KHOU 11, and Houston Public Media; you can also see Pi Kappa Phi’s own statement on their website: Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the “Pranks” and the “Tradition”

For far too long, hazing has been dismissed as “boys being boys,” “just part of the tradition,” or “character building.” We know the truth, and families in Turner County need to understand it too: hazing is abuse, pure and simple. It’s designed to dehumanize, control, and inflict physical or psychological harm under the guise of “brotherhood” or “sisterhood.” What happened to Leonel Bermudez is not an isolated incident; it’s a chilling example of the true nature of hazing today.

When we discuss hazing, we’re not talking about goofy pranks. We’re talking about actions that meet the legal definition of assault, battery, reckless endangerment, and often, even torture. The psychological scars can last a lifetime, and the physical injuries can be devastating, sometimes fatal.

Here’s a closer look at the types of hazing activities and their real-world consequences:

1. Physical Abuse and Extreme Physical Exertion:

This category goes far beyond simple calisthenics. It involves forcing individuals to engage in physically dangerous activities to the point of collapse or injury.

Forced Exercise to Exhaustion: As in Leonel’s case, this can include hundreds of push-ups and squats, sprints, bear crawls, and other strenuous activities performed for extended periods without rest, often accompanied by verbal abuse or threats. This can lead to severe muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis), dehydration, heatstroke, and cardiac arrest.
Paddling and Beatings: Being struck with objects, as alleged in Leonel’s case with wooden paddles, or outright physical altercations. These acts are clear assault and battery offenses.
Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to stay awake for extended periods, perform tasks in the early morning hours, or disrupting their sleep, leading to exhaustion, impaired judgment, and increased vulnerability to other abuses.
Exposure: Forcing individuals to be exposed to extreme cold or heat, or placed in dangerous environments, risking hypothermia, heatstroke, or physical injury. Leonel was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather and sprayed with a hose.

2. Forced Consumption:

This often includes alcohol but can extend to other dangerous substances. It strips individuals of bodily autonomy and can have immediate, life-threatening consequences.

Binge Drinking: Forcing individuals to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol in short periods, leading to alcohol poisoning, coma, brain damage, and death. This was the cause of death for Andrew Coffey, another Pi Kappa Phi pledge who died in 2017.
Eating Until Vomiting: Forcing consumption of any food or liquid to the point of physical illness, as Leonel experienced with milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns. This can lead to choking, aspiration, and severe gastrointestinal distress.
Consumption of Non-Food Items: Forcing pledges to eat or drink disgusting or dangerous substances.

3. Psychological Torture and Humiliation:

These acts aim to break an individual down mentally, stripping away their self-worth and independence.

Verbal Abuse and Degradation: Constant yelling, insults, derogatory names, and public shaming.
Humiliating Tasks: Forcing pledges to wear embarrassing clothing, perform demeaning acts, or carry humiliating objects, like the fanny pack with sexual objects Leonel was forced to carry.
Isolation and Exclusion: Deliberately excluding individuals, ignoring them, or making them feel unwanted and alone.
Threats and Intimidation: Threatening physical harm, social ostracism, or expulsion from the group if demands are not met. This creates an environment of fear where victims are terrified to speak out.
Simulated Drowning/Waterboarding: As Leonel experienced, this is a particularly egregious form of psychological and physical torture that can induce extreme fear, panic, and a feeling of impending death.

4. Sexual Hazing:

This is one of the most insidious and underreported forms of hazing.

Forced Nudity or Sexual Acts: Requiring individuals to appear nude, perform sexual acts, or simulate sexual acts.
Sexual Assault: Any non-consensual sexual contact perpetrated under the guise of hazing.
Use of Sexual Objects: As in Leonel’s case, forcing individuals to carry or interact with objects of a sexual nature as a form of humiliation.

Medical and Psychological Consequences of Hazing:

The immediate effects can be severe, but the long-term impact is often just as devastating.

Physical: Rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, alcohol poisoning, traumatic brain injury, broken bones, severe burns, hypothermia, dehydration, internal injuries, and death.
Psychological: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, substance abuse, academic decline, and profound trust issues. Leonel’s attorneys noted his “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution” – a clear demonstration of the psychological trauma inflicted.

It’s crucial for families in Turner County to understand that hazing is not just happening “somewhere else.” The same national organizations, with their often-toxic cultures and lack of oversight, operate in Georgia. These practices are not “traditions” to be upheld; they are dangerous behaviors that risk lives and destroy futures.

Who Is Responsible for Hazing Injuries in Turner County? We Hold Everyone Accountable.

When hazing occurs, it’s rarely just one or two individuals acting alone. It’s often a culmination of systemic failures, negligent oversight, and a pervasive culture of abuse. At Attorney911, our strategy, proven in cases like Leonel Bermudez’s $10 million lawsuit, is to meticulously identify and pursue every single entity, from the individual perpetrators to the largest institutions, that bears responsibility. This comprehensive approach ensures that justice is served and sends an unequivocal message that hazing will not be tolerated.

For families in Turner County, Georgia, seeking justice after a hazing incident, it’s essential to understand the full spectrum of potential defendants. We don’t just sue a few students; we target the “deep pockets” and the institutions that enabled the harm.

1. The Individual Perpetrators:

These are the hands-on participants and organizers of the hazing.

Chapter Officers (e.g., President, Pledgemaster, Risk Manager): These individuals have leadership duties and direct control over pledge activities. They are often the ones orchestrating the hazing. In the Bermudez case, the fraternity president and pledgemaster are specifically named as defendants.
Current Members: Any fraternity or sorority member who actively participates in, directs, or encourages hazing, or who stands by and allows it to happen, can be held personally liable.
Former Members or Alumni: As seen in the Bermudez case, former members who host hazing activities at their residences can be sued for premises liability and negligence. Even their spouses can be named if they knowingly allowed the abuse to occur on their property. This shows how far-reaching the responsibility can extend, touching individuals who might think they are removed from direct involvement.

2. The Local Fraternity or Sorority Chapter:

The specific chapter where hazing occurs is directly liable for the actions of its members and for fostering a culture that permits such behavior.

Direct Responsibility: The chapter itself, as an organization, directly planned and carried out the hazing activities.
Failed Oversight: The chapter leadership failed to ensure a safe environment for new members.

3. The National Fraternity or Sorority Organization:

These are often the “deepest pockets” and bear significant responsibility for the actions of their chapters.

Failure of Oversight and Enforcement: National organizations issue rules and policies against hazing. When these policies are consistently violated, and the national organization fails to intervene, discipline, or adequately supervise its local chapters, they become liable. In the Bermudez case, KHOU 11 reported allegations that the national organization “failed to enforce anti-hazing rules and policies despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'” This is a critical finding, indicating a pattern of negligence.
Pattern of Behavior: The tragic death of Andrew Coffey at a Pi Kappa Phi chapter in Florida in 2017 is chillingly similar to Leonel Bermudez’s severe injury eight years later. This pattern of incidents clearly demonstrates that Pi Kappa Phi National had actual knowledge of deadly hazing within its organization and failed to implement effective safeguards. This supports claims for punitive damages.
Resources: These national organizations typically have substantial assets, endowments, and comprehensive liability insurance policies designed to cover such incidents.

4. The University or College:

Universities and colleges have a fundamental duty to protect their students and provide a safe learning environment. Their liability depends on their level of knowledge, control, and action.

Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on university-owned or controlled property, the institution can be held liable. In the Bermudez case, Leonel was hazed in a fraternity house owned by the University of Houston. This makes the university’s responsibility undeniable, similar to a landlord’s duties to maintain a safe environment.
Negligent Supervision: Universities are expected to oversee student organizations, including Greek life. Failure to adequately monitor, investigate, or respond to hazing complaints can constitute negligent supervision. The University of Houston had a clear warning in 2017 when another student was hospitalized due to hazing at a different fraternity on its campus. Their failure to act decisively after that incident, leading to Leonel’s injuries eight years later, indicates a pattern of institutional negligence.
Failure to Act: When a university knows or should have known about hazing and fails to take appropriate action, they are complicit. The UH spokesperson’s admission that the events were “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of our community standards” is essentially an acknowledgment of their own failure.
Resources: Universities possess significant financial resources, including endowments, state funding, and extensive insurance coverage, making them key targets for accountability.

5. Housing Corporations:

Many fraternities and sororities operate through separate housing corporations that own or manage their chapter facilities.

Premises Liability: These entities have a direct responsibility to ensure the safety of the properties they manage. If hazing occurs regularly or is enabled at these locations, the housing corporation can be held liable. In the Bermudez case, the Beta Nu Housing Corporation is a named defendant.

6. Insurance Companies:

Ultimately, judgments and settlements must be paid. The various defendants usually carry liability insurance.

Coverage: National organizations, universities, housing corporations, and even individual members (through homeowner’s or renter’s insurance) often have policies that cover such claims. As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña possess invaluable insider knowledge of how these companies operate, strategize, and try to minimize payouts. This allows us to anticipate their moves and aggressively pursue maximum compensation for our clients.

For families in Turner County, Georgia, rest assured that our firm has the expertise to meticulously trace the chain of responsibility. We will deploy every legal tool available to uncover who knew what, when, and what they failed to do. From the student who wielded the paddle to the national CEO who ignored a “hazing crisis,” we are committed to holding every liable party accountable.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof for Turner County Families

The question many families in Turner County ask is, “Can we really win against such powerful organizations?” The answer, unequivocally, is yes. We don’t just talk about accountability; we achieve it. The landscape of hazing litigation has shifted dramatically in recent years, with victims and their families securing multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements that are sending a stark warning to fraternities, universities, and national organizations across America. Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is not an anomaly; it is a direct reflection of these groundbreaking precedents.

These cases are not just about financial compensation; they’re about justice, forcing institutional change, and saving lives by sending an undeniable message: hazing will cost you millions.

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

What Happened: Stone Foltz, a pledge at Pi Kappa Alpha, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” initiation event. He was found unresponsive the next morning.
The Outcome: This case resulted in criminal convictions for multiple fraternity members and a combined settlement of more than $10.1 million, with $2.9 million paid by Bowling Green State University and $7.2 million from the national fraternity and individual members. Most recently, in December 2024, the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was held personally liable in a judgment for $6.5 million, illustrating that individuals cannot hide behind the organization.
Why It Matters to Turner County: Our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is directly in line with this precedent. It demonstrates that even if a student survives, the severe injuries and egregious conduct involved in hazing warrants multi-million dollar compensation. It also proves that both universities and national fraternities bear financial responsibility.

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

What Happened: Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, died from acute alcohol poisoning (BAC of 0.495) after being forced to consume excessive amounts of alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta pledge event called “Bible Study” at LSU. He was made to drink every time he answered a question incorrectly.
The Outcome: A jury awarded the Gruver family a $6.1 million verdict. This case also led to the passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making hazing a felony.
Why It Matters to Turner County: A jury verdict of this magnitude sends a powerful message that societal outrage over hazing translates into significant financial penalties. This case underscores that criminal liability can run parallel to substantial civil judgments, and that tragic incidents can spur vital legislative reform.

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

What Happened: Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge, died after participating in a Beta Theta Pi initiation event at Penn State where he was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes. Highly intoxicated, he fell repeatedly down a flight of stairs, sustaining a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911, and his agonizing last hours were captured on security cameras.
The Outcome: Although the exact settlement amount is confidential, estimates place it well over $110 million, marking one of the largest hazing settlements in U.S. history. This case also led to the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania.
Why It Matters to Turner County: The phenomenal settlement in the Piazza case illustrates that when evidence is clear and conduct is highly egregious, the financial consequences for fraternities and universities can be astronomical. Our Bermudez case, with its specific details of waterboarding and extreme physical abuse, also presents egregious conduct.

4. Andrew Coffey — Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017) — Confidential Settlement

What Happened: Andrew Coffey, a pledge at Pi Kappa Phi (the same national fraternity as in the Bermudez case), died from alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event where he was forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon.
The Outcome: The chapter was permanently closed, multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the Coffey family reached a confidential settlement.
Why It Matters to Turner County: This case is devastating for Pi Kappa Phi. It proves that the national organization had actual notice of deadly hazing within its ranks eight years before Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized. Despite Andrew Coffey’s death, Pi Kappa Phi failed to implement effective changes, leading directly to Leonel’s injuries. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and conscious indifference, which is a key factor supporting punitive damages in our lawsuit.

5. Adam Oakes — Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021) — Over $4 Million Settlement

What Happened: Adam Oakes, a freshman pledge at Delta Chi, died from alcohol poisoning after a hazing event where he was forced to drink a large amount of whiskey.
The Outcome: The Oakes family filed a $28 million lawsuit, which settled in October 2024 for over $4 million, including a significant donation to the family’s “Love Like Adam” Foundation, created to fight hazing.
Why It Matters to Turner County: This recent settlement reinforces the significant compensation achieved in hazing deaths and shows that aggressive demands (like our $10 million) are standard practice in this field.

6. UT Austin Sigma Chi (2025) — Pending Wrongful Death Lawsuit

What Happened: Just weeks ago, a lawsuit was filed against the Sigma Chi chapter at the University of Texas at Austin following the death by suicide of an 18-year-old freshman after “horrific abuse.”
Why It Matters to Turner County: This new litigation, filed in the same state and around the same time as the Bermudez case, underscores the ongoing, tragic prevalence of hazing and the current legal battles being waged against it across Texas universities.

For families in Turner County, Georgia, these precedents should offer a powerful sense of hope and determination. Whether your child attends a state university, a private college, or any institution with Greek life, these cases demonstrate that when hazing causes injury or death, the responsible parties will be held accountable, and the compensation can be substantial. Attorney911 is at the forefront of this fight, bringing the same aggressive, data-driven approach that secured these outcomes to every case we take.

Georgia Law Protects You: Your Rights as a Hazing Victim in Turner County

While Attorney911 operates primarily in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including those in Turner County, Georgia. This is because hazing laws, while varying slightly by state, share common principles, and federal legal avenues often apply. More importantly, the foundational legal theories of negligence, assault, battery, and institutional liability — which form the basis of our multi-million dollar lawsuits — are universally recognized across state lines.

Let’s look at the legal protections available to hazing victims in Turner County when you work with experienced hazing litigation attorneys like us.

Georgia’s Anti-Hazing Law

Like many states, Georgia has specific laws designed to combat hazing. These laws provide both criminal penalties for perpetrators and a clear legal framework for civil lawsuits.

Georgia Code § 16-5-61 – Hazing:
This statute defines hazing broadly to include any activity which subjects a student to bodily injury or places a student in fear of bodily injury, as a condition for initiation or continued membership in any organization.

Key aspects of Georgia’s anti-hazing law that are crucial for Turner County families:

Broad Definition of Hazing: Georgia’s definition covers a wide range of harmful activities, from physical injury to psychological distress. This includes forcing consumption of alcohol or drugs, physical exertion, and any activity that could cause fear or emotional distress. Many of the egregious acts Leonel Bermudez endured would squarely violate Georgia’s statute.
Criminal Penalties: Individuals who engage in hazing can face criminal charges, typically misdemeanors, which can escalate if serious bodily injury or death occurs. Criminal proceedings often run parallel to civil lawsuits, providing additional leverage for victims.
Consent is NOT a Defense: Some states, like Texas, explicitly state that consent is not a defense to hazing. While Georgia’s statute may have nuances, the legal principle is generally clear: you cannot “consent” to criminal acts, and organizations cannot evade liability by claiming a victim willingly participated in abuse.
Organizational Responsibility: Organizations that knowingly permit or encourage hazing can face penalties, including loss of recognition at an educational institution and financial fines.

Civil Lawsuits: Seeking Justice and Compensation for Turner County Victims

Beyond criminal charges, civil lawsuits allow hazing victims and their families in Turner County to pursue significant financial compensation for their suffering. These actions are typically brought under several legal theories:

1. Negligence: This is often the primary basis for hazing lawsuits. We must prove:

Duty of Care: Universities, national fraternities, and even individual members have a duty to keep students safe. This includes preventing foreseeable harm like hazing.
Breach of Duty: They violated this duty by failing to prevent hazing, failing to supervise adequately, or directly participating in harmful acts. The University of Houston, for example, breached its duty by failing to prevent hazing in a house it owned, despite a prior hazing incident on campus in 2017.
Causation: Their breach of duty directly caused the victim’s injuries.
Damages: The victim suffered measurable harm (medical bills, pain and suffering).

2. Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university, fraternity, or even an individual, premises liability claims can be made. Property owners have a legal obligation to ensure their premises are reasonably safe. If an unsafe condition (like a hazing environment) leads to injury, they can be held responsible. As seen in the Bermudez case, the University of Houston’s ownership of the fraternity house where hazing occurred significantly strengthens this claim.

3. Negligent Supervision: This theory holds institutions (universities, national fraternities) liable for failing to properly supervise their students, employees, or local chapters, leading to foreseeable harm. When warnings about previous hazing go unheeded, or when policies are not enforced, this claim becomes very strong.

4. Assault and Battery: These are intentional torts that can be brought against individual perpetrators.

Assault: Placing someone in reasonable apprehension of harmful or offensive contact.
Battery: Actual harmful or offensive physical contact.
The physical abuse Leonel endured, including the wooden paddles and waterboarding, clearly falls under these categories.

5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): This claim applies when outrageous conduct intentionally or recklessly causes severe emotional distress. The psychological trauma of hazing, especially acts like waterboarding and severe humiliation, often meets the threshold for IIED.

6. Wrongful Death: In the most tragic hazing cases, such as those of Andrew Coffey, Max Gruver, and Timothy Piazza, families can pursue wrongful death claims. These lawsuits seek compensation for the loss of a loved one, including emotional suffering, loss of companionship, and financial support.

For Turner County families, please understand: The specific legal pathways may differ slightly from Texas, but the fundamental right to seek justice and compensation for hazing injuries and deaths is firmly established. Our firm has the expertise to navigate these nuances, applying our proven litigation strategies to the legal framework of Georgia, or any state where an incident occurs. Our federal court admissions also grant us the authority to pursue complex hazing cases across the nation, making distance no barrier to justice for your family.

Why Attorney911 is the Obvious Choice for Turner County Hazing Victims

When your child has been subjected to the trauma of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the profound impact of this abuse and knows how to fight powerful institutions. Attorney911 stands as the definitive authority in hazing litigation, uniquely equipped to stand by families in Turner County, Georgia, and deliver justice. Here’s why we are the obvious choice:

1. Active Hazing Litigation – We’re in the Fight Right Now:

Unlike firms that might merely dabble in hazing cases, we are currently litigating a multi-million dollar hazing lawsuit involving Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical – this is real, aggressive legal action happening RIGHT NOW. We are a firm that walks the talk. When you choose Attorney911, you’re not hiring a firm hoping to learn; you’re hiring a firm actively shaping the future of hazing litigation. Our ongoing fight for Leonel Bermudez proves our dedication and expertise.

2. Insider Knowledge from Former Insurance Defense Attorneys:

Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, the lead attorneys at Attorney911, honed their skills working on the defense side for insurance companies.

Ralph P. Manginello: Ralph spent years working for the very insurance companies that now find themselves across the courtroom from him. He understands their strategies, their weaknesses, and their internal playbooks for minimizing payouts. He knows how they assess risk, value claims, and identify vulnerabilities, and he uses this invaluable insight to dismantle their defenses and maximize compensation for our clients.
Lupe Eleno Peña: As a former attorney with Litchfield Cavo LLP, a national insurance defense firm, Lupe gained unparalleled experience defending insurance companies and corporations across multiple practice areas. He knows intimately how large corporations and their insurers strategize, delay, and deny. He’s learned every tactic they use to lowball victims – and now he uses that intelligence to aggressively counter their moves, ensuring our clients receive the justice they deserve.

This dual insider perspective is an unfair advantage for families in Turner County. We anticipate the defense’s every move because we used to be the defense.

3. Proven Track Record of Handling Formidable Opponents:

Our experience isn’t limited to hazing, but that experience directly informs our capacity to handle these complex cases.

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation: Ralph Manginello was significantly involved in the multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP following the catastrophic 2005 refinery explosion that killed 15 and injured over 180. This demonstrates our firm’s ability to take on massive corporate defendants, navigate complex scientific and medical evidence, and manage high-stakes, multi-party litigation – skills directly applicable to pursuing national fraternities and universities.
Millions Recovered for Clients: Our firm has a track record of recovering millions of dollars for victims in diverse personal injury cases, including wrongful death, catastrophic injuries, and vehicle accidents. These results are proudly reflected in our 4.9-star rating on Google with over 250 reviews, many of which laud our aggressive advocacy and successful outcomes.

4. Nationwide Reach with Federal Court Authority:

While our headquarters are in Houston, our dedication to hazing victims extends far beyond.

Federal Court Admissions: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are admitted to practice in U.S. District Courts. This means we can pursue complex cases against national fraternities and universities in federal court, regardless of where in Turner County or the nation the hazing occurred.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas and New York. This dual-state licensure provides a strategic advantage when dealing with national organizations that may be headquartered or incorporated in different states, allowing us to navigate multi-jurisdictional legal challenges seamlessly.
Willingness to Travel: We understand that trauma often restricts travel. We offer convenient video consultations for families in Turner County and are fully prepared to travel to Georgia for depositions, expert meetings, or trial, ensuring your access to justice is never limited by geography.

5. Expertise in Hazing-Specific Injuries and Dynamics:

We have focused our attention on understanding the unique medical and cultural aspects of hazing.

Rhabdomyolysis Injury Litigation: Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis cases, the exact life-threatening condition Leonel Bermudez suffered. This medical-legal knowledge ensures we fully understand the physical implications and demand appropriate long-term care and damages.
Understanding Greek Life: As a former college athlete and youth coach, Ralph Manginello possesses a deep understanding of team dynamics, locker room culture, and the social pressures that can lead to hazing. This insight allows us to deconstruct the “brotherhood” narratives and expose the underlying abuse.

6. Compassionate and Accessible Client-Centered Approach:

We know that families dealing with hazing are in immense pain.

“They Treat You Like Family”: Our testimonials consistently highlight our empathetic, communicative, and family-oriented approach. As one client shared, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client that’s caught in the middle of many other cases. You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” We extend this care to every family in Turner County.
Contingency Fees – No Upfront Cost: We believe no family should be denied justice due to financial constraints. We take hazing cases on contingency, meaning you pay us absolutely nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you. This aligns our interests directly with yours and removes the financial barrier to accessing top-tier legal representation. You can learn more about how this works by watching our video titled “How Contingency Fees Work” here.
Bilingual Services (Se Habla Español): We are proud to offer comprehensive legal services in Spanish, breaking down language barriers for Hispanic families in Turner County and ensuring every client receives clear, transparent communication.

7. Media Savvy for Public Accountability:

Hazing cases often involve intense public interest. We know how to leverage media attention strategically to increase public pressure for accountability. Ralph Manginello’s experience with high-profile cases, including ABC13 media coverage, demonstrates our ability to handle emotionally charged, media-intensive situations while protecting our clients’ interests.

For families in Turner County, Georgia, grappling with the unthinkable consequences of hazing, Attorney911 offers not just legal expertise, but a proven strategy, unparalleled insider knowledge, and a profound commitment to justice. We are equipped to take on the most powerful institutions and will fight tirelessly to ensure your child’s suffering leads to meaningful change and full compensation.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Guidance for Turner County Hazing Victims and Families

When hazing strikes, the immediate aftermath can be chaotic, confusing, and terrifying. If you or your child in Turner County, Georgia, has been a victim of hazing, every moment counts. The actions you take in the crucial hours and days following an incident can significantly impact your ability to seek justice and secure compensation. We understand the emotional toll, but acting decisively is critical.

Here is a clear, actionable guide on what you should do right now:

Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Seek Immediate Medical Attention.

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

Remove from Harm: If the hazing environment is ongoing, remove your child from that situation immediately.
Emergency Care: If there are any signs of serious injury, medical distress, or poisoning (especially alcohol poisoning), call 911 immediately or take your child to the nearest emergency room in Turner County. Do not delay.
Document Everything Medically: Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical evaluation. Some injuries, like rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown as suffered by Leonel Bermudez) or concussions, may have delayed symptoms. Crucially, inform medical staff that the injuries were a result of hazing or abuse. This creates an official record. Keep copies of all medical records, imaging results, and bills.
Mental Health Support: Hazing inflicts deep psychological wounds. Seek support from a mental health professional – a counselor, therapist, or psychologist – who can document the emotional and psychological impact.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence Immediately.

Evidence can disappear quickly. Do not underestimate the power of documentation.

Digital Communications: This is often the smoking gun.
- Text Messages: Take screenshots of ALL relevant text messages, including group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Signal, etc.), sent to or from your child. These often contain instructions, threats, derogatory comments, or discussions about hazing activities.
- Social Media: Preserve any posts, direct messages (DMs), or photos on platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or X (Twitter) that relate to the hazing. If your child was forced to follow specific accounts or interact in certain ways online, document that too.
- Emails: Save any emails from the fraternity/sorority, university, or individual members regarding pledge activities or hazing.
Photos and Videos:
- Injuries: Take clear, well-lit photos of any physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, rashes) as they appear, and continue to photograph them through the healing process.
- Location: If safe to do so, document the locations where hazing occurred, including fraternity houses, off-campus residences, parks, or specific rooms.
- Clothing/Items: If any specific clothing, props, or items were used in the hazing, photograph them.
Witness Information: Collect the names and contact details of any other pledges, fraternity/sorority members, or bystanders who witnessed the hazing. Note down what they saw or heard.
Documents: Keep all documents provided by the fraternity/sorority or university, such as pledge manuals, schedules, rules, recruitment materials, or codes of conduct.
Financial Records: Maintain records of medical bills, time missed from work, lost wages, and any educational expenses (tuition, fees) impacted by the hazing incident.

We have a dedicated video titled “Using Your Phone to Document Evidence” here. This resource emphasizes the vital role your phone plays in preserving evidence.

Step 3: Refuse to Communicate and Do NOT Sign Anything.

The moment hazing allegations arise, the institutions and individuals involved will begin damage control.

Do NOT Speak to the Fraternity/Sorority: Do not communicate with the chapter leadership, alumni, or national representatives. They are not on your side and will likely try to pressure you or gather information that could harm your case.
Do NOT Speak to University Administration Alone: Universities have their own legal counsel and risk management teams focused on protecting the institution, not necessarily your child. If you must interact with the university (e.g., for Title IX reporting), inform them you have legal counsel and direct them to us.
Do NOT Sign Any Documents: Never sign any waivers, releases, or agreements provided by the fraternity/sorority, national organization, or university without consulting an attorney. You could inadvertently waive critical legal rights.
Do NOT Give Recorded Statements: Decline any requests for recorded statements from insurance companies, fraternity/sorority officials, or university representatives. As we explain in our video “Never Talk to the Insurance Company After an Accident,” here, their goal is to minimize your claim, and anything you say can be twisted and used against you.

Step 4: Stay Off Social Media.

Social media is a minefield for personal injury cases, especially hazing. Refrain from posting anything about the incident, your injuries, or even general complaints. Defending parties will scrutinize your social media for anything that can be used to discredit your claims, such as photos of you appearing “fine” or engaging in activities that contradict your injury claims. Do not delete old posts either, as this can be seen as destruction of evidence.

Step 5: Contact Attorney911 Immediately for a Free Consultation.

Time is of the essence.

The Statute of Limitations: In Georgia, like most states, personal injury and wrongful death claims have a strict statute of limitations (typically two years). If you miss this deadline, you will lose your right to sue forever. Evidence also disappears quickly, and memories fade. Our video “Texas Statutes of Limitations” here, while specific to Texas, highlights the universal urgency of these deadlines.
Expert Guidance: An experienced hazing litigation attorney can immediately advise you on your rights, help you navigate the complex legal landscape, and protect you from common pitfalls that can ruin your case, as discussed in our video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” here.
We Come to You: While our primary offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we offer video consultations and are willing to travel to Turner County, Georgia, for client meetings, depositions, or trial, ensuring geographic distance is never a barrier to justice.

No family in Turner County should have to face the aftermath of hazing alone. We are here to bring our proven data-driven strategies, our insider knowledge of the defense, and our unwavering commitment to holding those responsible accountable.

Turner County Families: Call Now – Free Consultation

If your child in Turner County, Georgia, has been a victim of hazing, you are likely feeling overwhelmed, angry, and alone. But you are not alone. Our phone lines are open 24/7, and our compassionate team is prepared to listen to your story, offer immediate guidance, and outline a clear path toward justice.

We are not just litigating hazing cases; we are actively fighting to change the culture of abuse in Greek life and other collegiate organizations across the country. Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is proof of our aggressive and effective approach. We bring that same level of dedication and strategic prowess to every family we represent, including yours in Turner County.

Your Legal Emergency Demands Immediate Action.

Don’t wait. Time is critical. Evidence can disappear, witness memories fade, and crucial legal deadlines are ticking. The institutions responsible for hazing will immediately begin constructing their defense. You need an experienced legal team on your side from the very beginning, ensuring your rights are protected and your case is built on an unshakeable foundation.

Here’s How We Help Turner County Families:

Free, Confidential Consultation: Your first conversation with us is always free. There is no obligation, only an opportunity for you to understand your legal options and how we can help. We will answer your questions, assess the viability of your case, and provide a clear roadmap forward.
No Upfront Fees – We Work on Contingency: We understand that dealing with medical bills, lost academic opportunities, and emotional trauma creates immense financial strain. That’s why we take all hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. Our interests are fully aligned with yours: we pursue maximum compensation, and you only pay if we succeed.
Nationwide Representation: While our physical offices are in Texas, our federal court admissions and willingness to travel mean we can effectively represent hazing victims and their families in Turner County, Georgia, and anywhere across the U.S. We bridge the distance with accessible communication, including phone and video consultations, making it easy for you to connect with us discreetly.
Proven Results: We have recovered millions for clients in complex personal injury cases, and our current $10 million hazing lawsuit demonstrates our specific expertise and aggressive approach in this niche area of law. We know how to take on powerful university systems and national Greek organizations, and we are not afraid to fight for what you deserve.

The Institutions Knew. Now They Will Pay.

The Pi Kappa Phi National organization had eight years since Andrew Coffey’s death to fix their hazing culture. They failed. The University of Houston had eight years since a different student was hospitalized from hazing on their campus to implement robust oversight. They failed. Leonel Bermudez’s severe injuries are the direct consequence of these calculated failures.

We are Attorney911. We are Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña. We are coming for every institution, every national organization, and every individual who believes they can torture our children and walk away unscathed. Let’s work together to send an undeniable message that these barbaric “traditions” must end.

Turner County Families: Your Call to Action is Clear.

📞 Don’t Hesitate. Call Our Legal Emergency Hotline Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

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

We are available 24/7 to take your call. Let us be your first responder in this legal emergency. We understand what you’re facing, and we’re ready to fight for your child’s future, just as we are fighting for Leonel Bermudez’s. Your courage can prevent future tragedies in Turner County and across the nation. Enough is enough.