If you are reading this in Washington County, Georgia, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went off to college, expecting to make friends, build a future, and have a safe, enriching experience. Instead, they were tortured. They were abused. They were brought to the brink of physical and psychological collapse by a fraternity, a sorority, or another student organization that promised camaraderie and delivered trauma.

We are here to help families in Washington County fight back. We are Attorney911, and we are actively engaged in a $10 million lawsuit right now against a major national fraternity and a prominent university for egregious hazing that hospitalized a student with kidney failure and severe rhabdomyolysis. This is not a hypothetical fight for us; it is our mission. We understand the fear, the anger, and the desperate search for help at 2 AM. We speak directly to you, the worried parent in Washington County, Georgia, seeking justice for your child.

Hazing is not a rite of passage. It is not “boys being boys.” It is not harmless fun designed to build character. As you’ll see from the stories we share, it is often assault, battery, torture, and, far too frequently, it leads to permanent injury or even death. This is why we, Attorney911, have committed ourselves to aggressively representing hazing victims and their families in Washington County and across the nation. We bring the full force of our experience, our data, and our unwavering dedication to justice to every single case.

The Landmark Case That Echoes in Washington County: Our $10 Million Fight Against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston

The core of what we do is exemplified by a case we are fighting right now, a $10 million lawsuit filed in November 2025 against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members. This is the case of Leonel Bermudez, a young man whose nightmare began when he accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. This isn’t just a story; it’s a stark warning to Washington County parents about what hazing truly looks like today, what it costs, and the aggressive legal action that can be taken.

This Is What Hazing Looks Like. This Is What We Do About It.

Leonel Bermudez was not even a University of Houston student when he endured weeks of systematic abuse. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member planning to transfer in the upcoming semester. Tragically, his aspiration to join a brotherhood turned into a brutal ordeal that landed him in the hospital for four agonizing days.

We are not just reading about this case; we are living it. Our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are relentlessly pursuing accountability for Leonel.

As Ralph Manginello told ABC13, describing Leonel’s condition after the hazing:

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

And as Lupe Pena stressed 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.”

These words resonate deeply with us, and we believe they should resonate with every family in Washington County. Our client’s story is heartbreakingly real, and it is happening right now.

The Unthinkable Acts: A Glimpse into the Hazing Leonel Endured

The allegations in the Bermudez lawsuit paint a chilling picture of the reality of modern hazing. These are not exaggerated tales; these are the facts we are fighting in court, as reported by major Houston media outlets:

Waterboarding with a Garden Hose: Leonel was subjected to simulated waterboarding, being sprayed in the face with a garden hose while performing calisthenics. This is torture—a tactic condemned internationally as a violation of human rights.
Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was compelled to consume large quantities of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns to the point of vomiting. And then, shockingly, he was forced to continue running sprints in his own vomit.
Extreme Physical Torture: The abuse culminated in a session where, as punishment for missing an event, he was forced to perform over 100 pushups and 500 squats, along with other grueling exercises like “suicides,” bear crawls, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was struck with wooden paddles. This relentless exertion continued until his muscles broke down, leading to his severe medical emergency.
Psychological Degradation: He was forced to carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature at all times, and subjected to humiliation, threats, and sleep deprivation. Another pledge was even hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.

These aren’t isolated incidents. The lawsuit alleges a pattern of similar hazing and policy violations, both locally and nationally, and highlights that Pi Kappa Phi’s national organization “failed to enforce anti-hazing rules and policies despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'”

The Medical Nightmare: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

The physical toll of this hazing was devastating. Leonel developed severe rhabdomyolysis, a dangerous condition where damaged muscle tissue breaks down, releasing harmful proteins into the bloodstream. This led to acute kidney failure, a life-threatening complication that required him to be hospitalized for four days. He passed brown urine, a classic sign of severe muscle breakdown, and his creatine kinase levels confirmed the extent of the damage.

This is a condition that Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in litigating, a testament to our firm’s deep understanding of the medical consequences of hazing.

Institutional Responses: A Tale of Self-Preservation

The response from the institutions involved further exposes the deeply disturbing landscape of hazing.

The University of Houston spokesperson acknowledged the “deeply disturbing” events and “clear violation of our community standards,” noting “potential criminal charges.” This admission, along with the fact that UH owned the fraternity house where these acts occurred, establishes a clear path for institutional negligence.

Meanwhile, just seven days before our lawsuit was filed, Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters officially closed its Beta Nu Chapter, publicly stating it was “following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” In a statement devoid of true remorse, they also expressed:

“We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time and continuing our partnership with the University of Houston in the years ahead.”

This is not an apology; it is a calculated public relations response aimed at minimizing liability and planning a comeback. Their immediate closure of the chapter before our lawsuit indicates a clear consciousness of wrongdoing.

This Case Matters to Washington County Families Because:

“Tradition” is Torture: These aren’t pranks; they are systematic abuse. Such “traditions” can find their way into higher education institutions throughout Georgia, including those where Washington County students attend.
Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house. Universities nationwide—including those near Washington County like Georgia College & State University, Augusta University, or the University of Georgia—have the power to prevent hazing and the liability when they fail to do so.
National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi closed the chapter immediately, confirming their knowledge of hazing. The same national fraternities and sororities with chapters near Washington County operate under the same organizational structures that knew what was happening in Houston.
Victims Fear Retribution: Leonel Bermudez fears speaking out. Students in Washington County who are hazed face similar intimidation. We protect our clients.
One Brave Victim Can Protect Others: Every successful lawsuit sends a message. By fighting for Leonel, we are fighting to prevent future harm to other students in Washington County and beyond.
$10 Million Sends a Message: This is the price for torturing our kids. Washington County families can send the same powerful message.

This story makes it clear: Attorney911 is not theoretical. We are fighting this battle right now. And we bring the same aggression, expertise, and dedication to every hazing victim’s case, including yours in Washington County.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

Many parents in Washington County envision hazing as harmless pranks—forced late nights studying, maybe some silly errands. The reality is far more sinister, a brutal landscape of physical and psychological abuse that leaves lasting scars, both visible and invisible. We want Washington County families to understand that hazing today is often about systematic torture, dangerous rituals, and a complete disregard for human dignity.

It is not “boys being boys.” It is not “building brotherhood.” It is not “tradition.”
IT IS:

Assault and Battery: Physical violence, forced consumption, extreme exercise leading to injury.
Psychological Torture: Humiliation, degradation, sleep deprivation, threats.
Reckless Endangerment: Actions that create a substantial risk of serious bodily injury or death.
Sexual Abuse: Forced nudity, sexual acts, or carrying objects of a sexual nature, as seen in the Bermudez case.
Sometimes Manslaughter or Murder: Tragically, many hazing incidents end in death.

The Disturbing Landscape of Hazing Incidents

Based on our current litigation and years of experience, we’ve seen various forms of hazing. Washington County parents need to be aware that these aren’t isolated practices; they are pervasive across student organizations.

Common Hazing Tactics Today:

Physical Abuse: This goes beyond simple calisthenics. It includes beatings, paddling, branding, forced extreme exercises to the point of collapse (like the 500 squats that caused Leonel Bermudez’s kidney failure), and even “line-ups” where pledges are forced to endure physical attacks.
Forced Consumption: This often involves large quantities of alcohol, leading to binge drinking, alcohol poisoning, and even death. It can also include forced eating of grotesque or excessive foods until vomiting, or even non-food substances.
Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often kept awake for extended periods, forced to perform tasks late into the night or early morning, leading to exhaustion, impaired judgment, and increased vulnerability.
Psychological Torture and Humiliation: This category encompasses degrading acts, verbal abuse, isolation, public shaming, and threats of physical harm or social ostracization. The “fanny pack with sexual objects” forced on Leonel is a prime example of this dehumanizing tactic.
Simulated Waterboarding: As seen in the Bermudez case, this cruel form of torture mimics drowning, inducing extreme fear and distress.
Exposure: Leaving pledges in extreme cold or heat, or confining them in small, uncomfortable spaces.
Servitude: Forced cleaning, performing personal errands, or driving members around, often at odd hours and under duress.

The Devastating Medical and Psychological Consequences

The impact of hazing can be profound and life-altering. For Leonel Bermudez, it resulted in:

Rhabdomyolysis: A severe and potentially fatal condition where muscle tissue breaks down, leading to kidney damage.
Acute Kidney Failure: Lifelong risk of chronic kidney disease, dialysis, or even transplant.
Hospitalization: Intensive medical care and days spent fighting for his life.

Other severe consequences seen in hazing victims include:

Alcohol Poisoning: A leading cause of hazing deaths.
Traumatic Brain Injury: Resulting from falls, beatings, or blunt force trauma.
Broken Bones and Internal Injuries: From physical assaults or forced activities.
Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: Due to environmental exposure.
Cardiac Arrest: From extreme physical exertion and dehydration.
Long-term Psychological Damage: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and trust issues that can impact a victim’s life for years or even decades. Leonel’s fear of retribution, as reported by ABC13, is a direct manifestation of this psychological harm.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Entity Accountable

We believe that when hazing occurs, every entity that participated, enabled, or failed to prevent it should be held accountable. Our litigation strategy in the Bermudez case is comprehensive, targeting all responsible parties, and we apply this same approach for Washington County families.

We pursue claims against:

Local Chapters: The individual fraternity or sorority chapter that directly organized and implemented the hazing. This includes the officers—the president, pledgemaster, and others—who initiated and oversaw the activities.
Individual Members: Every member who participated in, encouraged, or stood by during the hazing can be held personally liable for assault, battery, and other intentional torts. This even extends to former members, like those who hosted hazing at their residence in the Bermudez case.
National Organizations: The national fraternity or sorority headquarters. These entities have a duty to supervise their local chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, and ensure member safety. When they fail, despite knowing the risks (as Pi Kappa Phi National did after Andrew Coffey’s death), they are liable. National organizations have “deep pockets”—millions in assets and insurance.
Universities and Colleges: The educational institutions themselves. Universities have a duty to provide a safe environment for their students, regulate Greek life, and intervene when hazing occurs. When they own property where hazing takes place (like the University of Houston) or have a history of prior hazing incidents on campus, their liability is often amplified. The University of Georgia, Georgia Southern University, Georgia College & State University, and other colleges and universities where Washington County students attend face the same oversight challenges and potential liability.
Housing Corporations and Alumni Boards: These separate corporate entities often own the fraternity or sorority houses, manage finances, and provide oversight. They can be held liable for premises liability and negligent supervision.
Insurance Carriers: The liability insurance policies carried by the national organization, the university, the housing corporation, and even individuals (like homeowner’s insurance) are critical sources of compensation. Our background as former insurance defense attorneys gives us an unparalleled advantage in navigating these complex policies.

This comprehensive approach ensures that we are not just suing “a few bad apples.” We are holding every party responsible, from the students who inflict the abuse to the institutions that enable it, fully accountable.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof That Justice Is Possible

For families in Washington County facing the aftermath of hazing, understanding what justice can look like is crucial. The tragic cases we detail below demonstrate that juries and courts are increasingly holding fraternities, universities, and individuals accountable with multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. These are not isolated incidents; they are precedents that solidify our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case and illustrate what is achievable for victims in Washington County.

The Message to Washington County Entities: Hazing Costs Millions.

We have the receipts, and these same results are possible for Washington County victims.

Stone Foltz: Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)

TOTAL: $10.1 MILLION+

$2.9 Million from Bowling Green State University
$7.2 Million from Pi Kappa Alpha and individuals
$6.5 Million personal judgment in December 2024 against the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, for his role in Foltz’s death. This was the most recent major hazing judgment in America at the time this article was written.

What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, a pledge at BGSU, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation event.

Why it Matters for Washington County: Our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is directly aligned with this precedent. It shows that both universities and national fraternities face massive financial consequences for hazing, and individual members can be held personally liable for millions.

Maxwell Gruver: Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017)

TOTAL: $6.1 MILLION VERDICT

A jury awarded $6.1 million to the Gruver family.
The incident led to the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana.

What Happened: In September 2017, Max Gruver, an 18-year-old LSU pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink excessive alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta event known as “Bible Study,” where he was forced to consume alcohol for incorrect answers. His BAC was 0.495—six times the legal limit.

Why it Matters for Washington County: This case proves that juries are willing to send a strong message with multi-million dollar verdicts, and hazing can lead to new, harsher laws targeting institutions.

Timothy Piazza: Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017)

TOTAL: $110+ MILLION (Multiple Settlements, Estimated)

Confidential settlements, estimated to exceed $110 million.
Multiple criminal convictions, including involuntary manslaughter.
Led to the “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law” in Pennsylvania.

What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza died from injuries sustained after consuming 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi bid acceptance night. He fell down stairs multiple times, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911, and the entire horrific ordeal was captured on security cameras.

Why it Matters for Washington County: This demonstrates the immense value of strong evidence and the catastrophic cost of institutional delay and negligence. When evidence is irrefutable, the financial penalties can be staggering.

Andrew Coffey: Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

SAME FRATERNITY AS OUR BERMUDEZ CASE

Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges.
The FSU chapter was permanently closed.
A civil suit resulted in a confidential settlement.

What Happened: In November 2017, Andrew Coffey died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” at Florida State.

Why it Matters for Washington County: This is crucial. Pi Kappa Phi National—the same national organization we are suing—had a hazing death in 2017. They knew. Eight years later, Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized under their watch. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and a failure to address a deadly culture.

Adam Oakes: Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021)

TOTAL: $4+ MILLION SETTLEMENT

After initially seeking $28 million, a settlement exceeding $4 million was reached in October 2024. This included a cash settlement to his parents and a significant donation to his family’s foundation.

What Happened: In February 2021, Adam Oakes, a VCU pledge, died after being forced to drink excessive alcohol in a Delta Chi event, leading to acute alcohol poisoning and heart inflammation.

Why it Matters for Washington County: This recent settlement, reaching over $4 million, underscores the severity with which hazing cases are treated and the substantial recoveries a family can achieve, even when the original demand is significantly higher. It demonstrates that universities and fraternities are willing to pay millions to avoid trials in these egregious cases.

Recent UT Austin Sigma Chi Death Lawsuit (November 2025)

BREAKING NEWS: Filed the same week as our Bermudez lawsuit.

A wrongful death lawsuit was just filed against Sigma Chi at the University of Texas at Austin following the death by suicide of an 18-year-old freshman after “horrific abuse.”

Why it Matters for Washington County: This tragic case, happening concurrently with our Bermudez litigation, highlights that the hazing crisis is ongoing and affecting students even in prestigious institutions across Texas. It underscores the urgency and relevance of our fight for justice for Leonel Bermudez, as these are not isolated incidents but part of a pervasive and deadly pattern.

Why These Precedents Strengthen Our Fight for Washington County Families:

Our $10 Million Demand Is Justified: Cases like Stone Foltz prove that our demand for Leonel Bermudez, a survivor with life-altering kidney damage, is not just reasonable but aligned with established precedent.
Pi Kappa Phi’s Deadly History: The Andrew Coffey case proves Pi Kappa Phi National knew about, yet failed to correct, deadly hazing in its chapters. This makes them liable for Leonel Bermudez’s injuries.
University of Houston’s Prior Knowledge: The 2017 Pi Kappa Alpha hazing incident at UH means the university knew of the risks and failed to act, making them complicit in Bermudez’s suffering.
Juries Condemn Hazing: The $6.1 million verdict in the Gruver case demonstrates that juries are outraged by hazing and are willing to award substantial damages.
Hazing Leads to Felony Laws: These cases have spurred critical legislative changes, increasing penalties and providing more legal avenues for victims.

These precedents clearly demonstrate that national fraternities, universities, and individual perpetrators will pay millions when hazing leads to severe injury or death. We use this history of accountability to pursue maximum compensation for hazing victims in Washington County.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights as a Hazing Victim

One of the most powerful tools in our arsenal for Washington County families is the legal framework surrounding hazing. While our firm is based in Texas, the principles of these laws often echo in states across the nation, and our federal court authority often allows us to pursue these cases regardless of location. Understanding these protections is critical for any Washington County student or family seeking justice.

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

This comprehensive law defines hazing, outlines criminal penalties, establishes organizational liability, and, crucially, addresses the insidious defense of “consent.”

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151):
Texas law broadly defines hazing as “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution… directed against a student for the purpose of pledging… if the act:”

Includes physical brutality (whipping, striking, branding).
Involves sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, confinement, calisthenics, or other similar activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student. (This is directly applicable to Leonel Bermudez’s symptoms of rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure from forced exertion and exposure).
Involves forced consumption of food, liquid, alcoholic beverages, or other substances that pose an unreasonable risk of harm. (Directly applicable to Leonel’s forced eating until vomiting).
Induces or requires activities that violate the Penal Code.

The hazing that Leonel Bermudez endured—waterboarding, extreme calisthenics, forced eating, wooden paddles—aligns with multiple elements of this statutory definition, making the case against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston undeniable.

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152):
Texas hazing laws carry serious criminal consequences for individuals involved:

A Class B Misdemeanor for general hazing.
A Class A Misdemeanor if the hazing causes serious bodily injury (like Leonel’s kidney failure). This can mean up to 1 year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
A State Jail Felony if the hazing causes death, carrying a sentence of 180 days to 2 years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.

The University of Houston spokesperson’s mention of “potential criminal charges” underscores the severe nature of the allegations.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
The law also holds organizations accountable, not just individuals. A fraternity itself can commit an offense if it condones or encourages hazing, or if its officers, members, pledges, or alumni participate. Penalties include fines up to $10,000, denial of operation rights, and property forfeiture. This directly applies to both the local Pi Kappa Phi chapter and its national organization.

Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154):
This is one of the most vital protections for hazing victims, and we cannot stress it enough:

“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 provision directly counters the common fraternity defense that a pledge “consented” or “knew what they were getting into.” The Texas Legislature explicitly removed this as a legal defense, recognizing that the power dynamics and coercive nature of hazing make true consent impossible. For Washington County students, this means their willingness to participate under duress does not absolve the perpetrators of responsibility.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Charges, for True Justice

Beyond criminal prosecution, civil lawsuits provide the only avenue for victims and their families to recover financial compensation for their suffering and losses. For Washington County families, this means holding liable parties financially accountable through claims such as:

Negligence Claims: We prove that the university, national fraternity, or individuals had a duty to protect your child, breached that duty through their actions or inactions (like allowing hazing to occur or failing to supervise), and that this breach directly caused your child’s injuries and damages.
Premises Liability: When hazing occurs on university-owned or controlled property, like the Pi Kappa Phi house at UH, the institution can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment. This theory is particularly potent where the university collected rent from a property demonstrably used for illegal and dangerous activities.
Negligent Supervision: We argue that the national organization failed to properly supervise its local chapter, and the university failed to adequately oversee Greek life, leading directly to the hazing incident.
Assault and Battery: These are intentional torts that can be brought against individual perpetrators for any harmful or offensive physical contact, such as beatings, paddling, or forced physical activity.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For extreme and outrageous conduct that causes severe emotional suffering, such as the psychological trauma inflicted by waterboarding or public humiliation.
Wrongful Death: In the most tragic cases, families can sue for the loss of companionship, future earnings, and other damages when hazing causes a student’s death. Fatal hazing incidents are what drive the highest verdicts and settlements in these cases.

These civil claims are available in every state, regardless of whether criminal charges are filed. They represent the victim’s right to full and fair compensation. Our expertise in these areas ensures that Washington County victims have a powerful advocate in their corner, pursuing every available legal avenue for justice.

Why Attorney911 Is the Choice for Washington County Hazing Victims

When your child has been subjected to the horrors of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer. You need an aggressive advocate, an empathetic guide, and a legal team with the experience and resources to take on powerful institutions. We are Attorney911, and we are ideally positioned to fight for Washington County families.

We are headquartered in Houston, Texas, but our nationwide expertise and federal court authority mean we can represent hazing victims from Washington County, Georgia, and across the United States. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

Our Unmatched Advantages, Tailored for Washington County’s Needs:

Currently Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit: We’re not just theoretical; we’re in the trenches right now, fighting a major national fraternity and a university. This active litigation against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston demonstrates our ongoing commitment and current expertise in hazing cases. Washington County families get the same aggressive, informed representation.
Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook: Both of our lead attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are former insurance defense lawyers. They spent years representing the very types of insurance companies and corporations we now sue.
- Ralph Manginello: With over 25 years of courtroom experience, Ralph has seen firsthand how insurance companies value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize payouts. He knows their internal tactics because he used to be one of them.
- Lupe Pena: Prior to joining Attorney911, Lupe worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm. He understands the intricate maneuvers of corporate legal teams and insurance adjusters, who are trained to deny claims and lowball victims. He now dismantles their defenses from the inside out.
  This insider knowledge is a massive “unfair advantage” for our Washington County clients. We speak their language, anticipate their moves, and know exactly how to counter their strategies.
Federal Court Admissions for Nationwide Reach: We are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and possess federal litigation authority. This means we can pursue complex cases against national fraternities and universities in federal court, regardless of their location, making us a powerful advocate for Washington County victims.
Dual-State Bar Admission (Texas AND New York): Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York. This dual licensure provides a strategic advantage when dealing with national fraternities and sororities, many of which are headquartered or have significant operations in states with strong legal frameworks for such organizations. We can effectively pursue justice across state lines.
Multi-Million Dollar Case Experience: Taking on Giants: Ralph Manginello was involved in the multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP following the Texas City refinery explosion, which killed 15 workers and injured 180+. This experience demonstrates our capacity to take on massive corporate defendants with limitless resources—a skill directly applicable to litigation against powerful national fraternities, universities, and their insurance carriers, even for Washington County families.
Hazing-Specific Expertise: Rhabdomyolysis and More: We have direct experience with specific hazing injuries, such as rhabdomyolysis cases like Leonel Bermudez’s. We understand the complex medical and legal nuances of these specialized injuries, ensuring your case is built on a foundation of expert knowledge.
“Se Habla Español”: Bilingual Staff for Hispanic Families in Washington County: Lupe Pena is fluent in Spanish, and our staff is bilingual. We can serve Spanish-speaking families in Washington County and throughout America, ensuring no language barrier stands in the way of justice.
Compassionate, Client-Centered Approach: We are not an impersonal “legal mill.” Our Google reviews (4.9 stars, 250+ reviews) consistently highlight our warm, empathetic approach, with clients stating, “They treat you like family.” We understand the trauma hazing inflicts, and we commit to treating every Washington County client with respect, care, and aggressive advocacy. We see your child as a person, not a paycheck.
Contingency Fees – Zero Upfront Cost for Washington County Families: We understand that the financial burden of a hazing incident can be overwhelming. That’s why we take hazing cases on contingency. This means:
- You pay $0 upfront.
- We don’t get paid unless we win your case.
- Our interests are directly aligned with yours: we only get paid if you receive compensation. This removes financial barriers and allows Washington County families to pursue justice without added stress.
Willingness to Travel and Offer Remote Consultations: We can provide video consultations for families in Washington County, Georgia, and beyond. For critical depositions, meetings, or trials, our attorneys are prepared to travel to Washington County to ensure your case receives the personalized attention it deserves.

We are intensely committed to turning trauma into accountability. Our current fight for Leonel Bermudez is proof. When you choose Attorney911, you’re choosing a team that is battle-tested, deeply knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in your family’s fight for justice in Washington County.

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

If your child has been a victim of hazing in Washington County, Georgia, or anywhere else, the steps you take immediately can be crucial to the success of their legal case. Hazing incidents are often deliberately hidden, evidence can disappear quickly, and victims may feel immense pressure to remain silent. We are here to guide you through these critical first steps.

This is not a general list of advice; this information is specifically tailored for families like yours, searching for answers at a moment of profound crisis.

Step 1: Ensure Immediate Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Your child’s physical and mental well-being is the absolute priority.

Remove Your Child from the Situation: If your child is currently at risk, get them out of the environment immediately.
Seek Medical Attention NOW: Even if injuries seem minor, or your child is hesitant, insist on a thorough medical examination.
- Go to the Emergency Room: For any physical injuries, signs of extreme exhaustion, dehydration, alcohol poisoning, or psychological distress. Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis was a severe, life-threatening condition. Do not delay.
- Document Everything: Ensure medical professionals note that injuries are a result of hazing or forced activities. Obtain copies of all medical records, including diagnostic tests, doctor’s notes, and discharge instructions.
- Mental Health Support: Hazing inflicts deep psychological wounds. Seek help from counselors or therapists specializing in trauma. Document these sessions and diagnoses carefully.
Do Not Downplay Symptoms: Your child may feel pressure to minimize what happened. Explain that full honesty with medical professionals is vital for their health and for documenting their case.

Step 2: Preserve ALL Evidence – “Document Everything!”

Hazing cases often rely heavily on digital evidence and firsthand accounts. Every piece of information can be critical.

Save All Digital Communications:
- Text Messages: Any texts related to the pledging process, hazing activities, warnings, threats, or conversations about the incident itself. The defense will demand these.
- GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs: Hazing is often orchestrated through these apps. Screenshots are essential. Save all group chat logs.
- Emails: Any emails from the fraternity, university, or individual members related to the incident.
- Photos and Videos: Any images or videos from pledge events, photos of injuries (at all stages of healing), or pictures of the locations where hazing occurred. These are invaluable. (Refer to our video, “Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case?“).
Identify Witnesses:
- Other Pledges: Obtain names and contact information for other students who witnessed or participated in the hazing. They may be reluctant to speak initially, but their testimony can be crucial.
- Bystanders: Anyone who saw unusual activity, heard alarming sounds, or observed suspicious behavior at the fraternity house or other locations.
Gather Documents:
- Pledge manuals, schedules, creeds, or any written materials provided by the organization.
- University Greek life policies, anti-hazing policies, codes of conduct.
- Financial records related to the incident: medical bills, lost wages from missed work, tuition/fees for any academic disruption.
- Academic records, if the hazing significantly impacted your child’s grades or enrollment status.
Keep a Detailed Journal: Encourage your child to write down everything they remember, no matter how minor. This includes dates, times, names of individuals involved, specific activities, and their physical and emotional responses. Do this soon, as memories fade.

Step 3: Critical “Don’ts” – Protect Your Child’s Case

These are common pitfalls that can severely damage a hazing case.

DO NOT Delete Anything: Do not delete text messages, social media posts, or any other digital evidence, even if it seems irrelevant or embarrassing. The defense will argue spoliation of evidence, and it can severely undermine your credibility. (See our video, “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case“).
DO NOT Talk to the Organization (Fraternity/Sorority/University) Without Legal Counsel: They are not on your side. Their goal is to protect themselves and minimize liability. Any statements your child makes can be twisted and used against them. Let us handle all communication.
DO NOT Sign Anything from the Organization: Do not sign any waivers, non-disclosure agreements, or disciplinary documents without having an attorney review them first. You could inadvertently waive crucial legal rights.
DO NOT Post About the Incident on Social Media: Anything posted publicly can be discovered and used against your child to cast doubt on their injuries or credibility. This includes seemingly innocuous posts showing them “doing well” or photos from social events after the hazing. (See our video, “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident”).
DO NOT Give Recorded Statements to Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies, even your own, are not your friends. Their adjusters are trained to get you to inadvertently damage your claim. Let your attorney communicate with them.
DO NOT Delay: The statute of limitations (typically two years in most states) for personal injury and wrongful death cases means you have a limited time to file a lawsuit. Evidence disappears, and memories fade. Act quickly. (See our video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?“).

Step 4: Contact Attorney911 Immediately for a Free Consultation

This is where we come in. As soon as you can, reach out to us.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7): Our hotline is always open for legal emergencies.
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Schedule a Video Consultation: For Washington County families, distance is not an issue. We can meet remotely to discuss your case.

We will provide a free, confidential case evaluation. We will explain your legal rights, assess the viability of your case, and outline the potential paths to justice without any obligation. The sooner we get involved, the sooner we can work to preserve evidence, build a strong case, and shield your family from further pressure by the involved institutions.

“If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Lupe Pena’s powerful words are our guiding principle. Your child did not deserve this, and together, we can ensure that every perpetrator and institution is held accountable.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline for Washington County Hazing Victims

When your family in Washington County, Georgia, is facing a hazing crisis, you are experiencing a legal emergency. You need immediate, aggressive, and professional help from a team you can trust. We are Attorney911, and we are ready to answer that call.

Our fierce advocacy for victims like Leonel Bermudez, currently fighting a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston, demonstrates our unwavering commitment to holding powerful institutions accountable for hazing. We bring that same fight, that same expertise, and that same relentless pursuit of justice to every Washington County family we represent.

Washington County Families: Call Us Now for a Free, Confidential Consultation

LEGAL EMERGENCY HOTLINE FOR WASHINGTON COUNTY HAZING VICTIMS:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

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

We are available 24/7 for Washington County hazing emergencies. You don’t have to face this nightmare alone.

No Upfront Cost: We Work on Contingency for Washington County Families

We understand that the idea of taking on a national fraternity or a major university can be intimidating, especially concerning legal fees. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis for hazing cases:

You pay $0 upfront.
We only get paid if we WIN your case.
Our fees are a percentage of the compensation we secure for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

This model eliminates financial barriers, allowing every Washington County family deserved access to top-tier legal representation, regardless of their current financial situation.

We Serve Washington County Hazing Victims — And Hazing Victims Nationwide

While our headquarters are in Houston, Texas, our reach extends far beyond. Hazing is a national crisis, affecting students in Washington County, Georgia, and in colleges and universities across America. We are equipped to handle your case, no matter where the hazing occurred, through:

Federal court authority: Our admission to the U.S. District Court means we can pursue complex cases against national organizations in federal jurisdiction.
Dual-state bar licenses: Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York, providing strategic advantages in national-level litigation.
Accessibility through technology: We offer secure video consultations, allowing Washington County families to meet with us remotely from the comfort and privacy of their homes.
Commitment to travel: For crucial depositions, client meetings, or trials, our attorneys are prepared to travel to Washington County as needed. Distance will not be an obstacle to your justice.

We represent victims of hazing in all types of organizations, not just fraternities and sororities:

Fraternities and sororities at institutions like Georgia College & State University, Augusta University, or the University of Georgia, where Washington County students attend.
Washington County sports teams, marching bands, and ROTC programs.
Clubs and student organizations at any educational institution where abuse is normalized as “initiation.”
Military training programs or academies.

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing: We Know There Are More of You.

Our client, Leonel Bermudez, was not the only one subjected to the horrific abuse at the Pi Kappa Phi chapter. The lawsuit references another pledge who collapsed and lost consciousness, and others who endured similar waterboarding, forced eating, and physical torture.

If you or your child were also a victim of the Pi Kappa Phi hazing at the University of Houston, or if you witnessed it, please contact us immediately. You have rights, and we can represent you. As Lupe Pena emphasized:

“If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Let us help you bring the truth to light and hold every responsible party accountable.

Your Call Is the First Step Towards Justice.

Don’t let fear, shame, or the intimidating presence of powerful institutions prevent you from seeking justice. Your child endured unspeakable trauma, and they deserve full and fair compensation. Their case can also be a crucial step in preventing future hazing, protecting other Washington County students from similar nightmares.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 right now. The consultation is free. The conversation is private. And the fight for justice starts the moment you reach out.

WASHINGTON COUNTY HAZING VICTIMS: IMMEDIATE HELP. AGGRESSIVE REPRESENTATION. RESULTS.
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com | attorney911.com