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Wayne County Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $24M Pike Settlements Exposed | Attorney911 — The Firm That Closed Beta Nu | Federal Court | Former Insurance Defense | 1-888-ATTY-911

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

If you’re reading this, your family in Wayne County, Georgia, may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college, to grow, to explore new opportunities. Instead, they were tortured. We’re here to help families in Wayne County fight back against the insidious cancer of hazing that plagues our college campuses, both in Georgia and across the nation.

Hazing isn’t a rite of passage; it’s a criminal act that leaves physical scars and deep psychological wounds. It can cost futures, careers, and even lives. When such a tragedy strikes, whether your child was attending a university here in Georgia, like the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia Southern, or a university out of state, the path forward can seem overwhelming. You may feel alone, scared, and angry. But you are not alone. We are Attorney 911, and we are fiercely dedicated to aggressively representing hazing victims and their families. We possess deep knowledge of global markets, regulatory landscapes, cultural nuances, and consumer behavior specific to Wayne County, Georgia, and beyond, allowing us to connect with audiences on a genuine level.

We understand the unique values and close-knit community spirit that defines Wayne County, Georgia. Families here cherish their children and send them off to college with hopes of a bright future, not with fears of abuse. Whether your child attends a major state university or a smaller regional college, the risk of hazing is real, and the strong sense of community here means that betrayals of trust, like those caused by hazing, resonate deeply. We recognize that Wayne County families deserve to know that hazing happens at institutions their children might attend and that there are attorneys who will fight tirelessly on their behalf.

Our firm stands ready to provide the aggressive, data-driven, and relentless representation needed to pursue accountability for hazing injuries and deaths. We are currently actively fighting this battle in a $10 million lawsuit, Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi, University of Houston, in Harris County, Texas, and we are ready to bring that same fight directly to Wayne County, Georgia. This isn’t just a case we mention; it’s a testament to everything we stand for.

The Nightmare Just Became Real: What Happened in Houston – And Why It Matters to Wayne County, Georgia

Just weeks ago, a nightmare unfolded in Houston, Texas, proving that hazing is not just a relic of the past; it is a present and terrifying danger in higher education. The details of what happened to Leonel Bermudez, a young man who was not even yet enrolled at the University of Houston, should send shivers down the spine of every parent in Wayne County, Georgia. His story is a stark warning, and our fight for him demonstrates exactly the kind of relentless advocacy we offer.

Breaking News: Our Attorneys Are Fighting This Battle Right Now

Our team at Attorney 911 is currently representing Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit filed in November 2025 in Harris County Civil District Court. We have named Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (including its local Beta Nu chapter and its National Headquarters), the University of Houston, its Board of Regents, 13 individual fraternity members, a former member, and even that former member’s spouse as defendants. This is not some abstract legal concept; this is a live, ongoing fight for justice, and it’s the same fight we’re prepared to bring to Wayne County, Georgia.

Local news outlets in Houston have extensively covered this lawsuit, including:

Even Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters itself released a statement on November 21, 2025, titled “Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston,” found at https://pikapp.org/pi-kappa-phi-closes-beta-nu-chapter-at-the-university-of-houston/. Their hasty closure of the chapter days before our lawsuit was filed speaks volumes.

Leonel Bermudez’s Story: A Warning to Wayne County Parents

Leonel Bermudez was not even an enrolled University of Houston student. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective transfer student hoping to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity in Spring 2026. On September 16, 2025, he accepted a bid. What followed was seven weeks of systematic abuse that culminated in his hospitalization for severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

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

This is the grim reality of modern hazing. It’s not limited to any specific university system, state, or even region. Pi Kappa Phi has over 150 chapters across America, and the same “traditions” that hospitalized Leonel in Houston could easily happen at fraternities at institutions near Wayne County, Georgia. The negligence displayed by the university and national fraternity is a pattern we see replicated nationwide. If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority at a university in Georgia, they could face the same horrific abuse.

Our attorney Lupe E. Peña emphasized the broader impact, stating, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

The Hazing Timeline: From Allegiance to Acute Kidney Failure

The lawsuit we filed meticulously details the horrifying timeline of abuse:

  • Sept 16, 2025: Leonel accepts a bid to Pi Kappa Phi at UH.
  • Sept 16 – Nov 3, 2025: Weeks of systematic hazing, abuse, and torture begin.
  • Oct 13, 2025: Another pledge is hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.
  • Oct 15, 2025: A pledge loses consciousness and collapses during forced physical exertion, requiring other pledges to elevate his legs.
  • Nov 3, 2025: On this date, Leonel is subjected to a brutal punishment for missing an event, forced to perform over 100 pushups, 500 squats, and other extreme exercises while reciting the fraternity creed, under threat of expulsion, until he can no longer stand without help.
  • Nov 4-5, 2025: Leonel is in extreme pain, barely able to move.
  • Nov 6, 2025: His mother rushes him to the hospital, where he is passing brown urine – a critical sign of rhabdomyolysis. He is diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
  • Nov 6-10, 2025: Leonel spends three nights and four days hospitalized, receiving intensive medical treatment.
  • Nov 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National officially closes its Beta Nu Chapter, likely anticipating legal action.
  • Nov 21, 2025: We file the $10 million lawsuit.

This disturbing chronology is why Wayne County families need to be vigilant. This isn’t just happening in distant states; the same types of incidents could happen at any university, including our own beloved institutions that Wayne County families trust with their children’s education.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond “Boys Being Boys”

Many parents in Wayne County, Georgia, might imagine hazing as innocent pranks or mild inconveniences. But the truth, as evidenced by Leonel Bermudez’s case, is far more sinister. Hazing today is calculated abuse, physical torture, and psychological manipulation bordering on criminal. This is not “boys being boys” or harmless “tradition.” This is assault, battery, and reckless endangerment that can — and often does — lead to severe injury or death.

The hazing Leonel endured exposes the brutal reality:

  • Waterboarding / Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” as reported by KHOU. He was sprayed in the face with a hose while doing calisthenics. This isn’t a prank; it’s a form of torture that mimics drowning. As Houston Public Media explicitly stated, “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.”
  • Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was made to consume large quantities of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. Then, the horror continued, as he was forced to run sprints while in distress and left lying in his own vomit-soaked grass.
  • Extreme Physical Punishment: The November 3 incident alone involved more than 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (running drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was forced to recite the fraternity creed during these grueling exercises. The Houston Chronicle also reported that pledges were “being struck with wooden paddles.” This goes far beyond exertion; it’s designed to break a person physically and mentally. A student even lost consciousness during these workouts.
  • Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was made to carry a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature at all times. Other pledges were hog-tied and subjected to degrading acts. The threats of punishment and expulsion kept them compliant through fear.
  • Sleep Deprivation & Exhaustion: Pledges were forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, disrupting their sleep and ensuring constant exhaustion, which makes them more vulnerable to manipulation.

The Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

The physical abuse Leonel suffered led to a critical medical emergency: rhabdomyolysis. This condition is the breakdown of muscle tissue, releasing a damaging protein called myoglobin into the bloodstream. This myoglobin can then severely harm the kidneys, leading to acute kidney failure. Leonel’s mother rushed him to the hospital after he started “passing brown urine,” a classic sign of myoglobin in the urine. He was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure and spent four days hospitalized, receiving intensive medical care. He still faces the ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. Our own Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases, demonstrating our preparation for such severe injuries.

Hazing is not confined to anecdotes from distant campuses; it’s a prevalent and dangerous problem that demands attention in Wayne County, Georgia, and at every university our children attend. Whether it’s fraternities and sororities, sports teams, marching bands, ROTC, or other student organizations, the underlying culture of abuse can manifest in shockingly similar ways.

Who is Responsible: Holding Every Participant and Enabler Accountable

When a hazing incident causes injury or death, the question that naturally arises is: who can be held accountable? The answer, as demonstrated by our aggressive pursuit in the Bermudez case, is clear: everyone who participated, facilitated, or had the power and responsibility to prevent it. We believe in holding all liable parties responsible, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in seeking justice for victims in Wayne County, Georgia.

In the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit, we are pursuing a comprehensive list of defendants:

  • Local Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi: The UH Beta Nu chapter directly organized and conducted the hazing activities. They are primarily responsible for the immediate harm inflicted.
  • Chapter Officers: Individuals in leadership roles, such as the fraternity President and Pledgemaster, who directed, allowed, or failed to stop the hazing, bear significant personal responsibility.
  • Individual Members: Every member who participated in, encouraged, or stood by while hazing occurred can be held personally liable for their actions.
  • Former Members & Their Spouses: In the Bermudez case, former members and a spouse are also named because significant hazing sessions allegedly occurred at their private residence. This extends liability to anyone who knowingly hosts or facilitates hazing on their property.
  • National Organization (Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters): The National Headquarters had a responsibility to oversee its chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, and ensure member safety. Despite clear indications and even prior hazing deaths in their system (Andrew Coffey in 2017), they allegedly failed to do so. KHOU reported that the national organization failed to enforce anti-hazing rules “despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'” They have deep pockets and significant insurance, making them a primary target for accountability.
  • University of Houston: The University had multiple layers of responsibility. Critically, it owned and controlled the fraternity house where some of the hazing occurred. The University also has a documented history of hazing problems, including a 2017 incident at another fraternity where a student was hospitalized. They had the power to regulate, inspect, suspend, or remove organizations and individuals, but failed to protect Leonel. Universities have a duty to keep their students safe from foreseeable harm, and when they fail, they are liable.
  • UH Board of Regents: As the governing body of the University, the Board of Regents shares ultimate institutional responsibility for the policies and oversight that failed to prevent hazing on campus.
  • Insurance Carriers: Behind many of these defendants are insurance policies. National organizations, universities, and individuals often carry liability insurance that can provide substantial compensation. Our firm, with attorneys like Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña who previously worked in insurance defense, knows exactly how to navigate these complex policies and maximize recovery.

The “Deep Pockets” Principle

It’s important for Wayne County families to understand that while a hazing incident involves individual perpetrators, the significant financial recovery often comes from the “deep pockets” of the institutions involved. National fraternities and sororities, universities, and their insurance carriers possess millions of dollars in assets. This is not about bankrupting college students; it’s about holding powerful institutions accountable for the environment they create and permit.

For families in Wayne County, Georgia, whose children attend institutions like the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia Southern University, or even smaller private colleges, the same layers of responsibility apply. The national fraternities and sororities with chapters at these schools operate under the same national leadership, and the universities themselves bear responsibility for the safety of their students. We are prepared to identify every liable entity, from the individual students to the national organizations and the universities, and aggressively pursue justice.

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

The fight against hazing isn’t just about justice; it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of victims and sending a clear message to institutions that this abuse will no longer be tolerated. We have a proven track record of fighting for significant compensation, and precedent-setting verdicts and settlements across the nation demonstrate that hazing cases win big. This is critical for Wayne County, Georgia, families to understand: if your child has been subjected to hazing, substantial recovery is possible.

Landmark Verdicts & Settlements: They Will Pay

The following cases represent a fraction of the multi-million dollar outcomes achieved against fraternities, universities, and individuals responsible for hazing:

  • STONE FOLTZ — Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Total: $10.1 Million+

    • Stone Foltz, 20, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha “Big/Little” event. In this case, Bowling Green State University settled with the family for $2.9 million, while Pi Kappa Alpha National and several individuals paid $7.2 million. This is the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history. Most recently, in December 2024, the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was ordered to pay an additional $6.5 million in personal liability. This case is a stark reminder that both institutions and individuals face massive financial exposure.
    • Relevance to our case: Our $10 million demand in the Bermudez lawsuit is directly in line with this precedent. It demonstrates that both universities and national fraternities are willing to pay significant sums to resolve hazing claims.

  • MAXWELL GRUVER — Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017): Total: $6.1 Million Verdict

    • Maxwell Gruver, 18, died of acute alcohol poisoning with a BAC of 0.495 after being forced to consume excessive alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” event. A jury awarded his family $6.1 million. One fraternity member was convicted of negligent homicide, serving prison time. This tragic case also led to the passage of the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
    • Relevance to our case: This jury verdict powerfully shows that juries nationwide are outraged by hazing and are willing to award multi-million dollar damages. It reinforces that even without a settlement, justice can be achieved in court.

  • TIMOTHY PIAZZA — Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017): Total: $110+ Million (Multiple Settlements)

    • Timothy Piazza, 19, died from traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding after being forced to drink 18 alcoholic beverages in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi event. He fell repeatedly down stairs, and fraternity brothers delayed calling 911 for 12 hours. The subsequent civil settlements are estimated to exceed $110 million. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, with some receiving convictions for involuntary manslaughter. This case led to Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.”
    • Relevance to our case: This case highlights that when evidence is strong and the conduct is egregious, as it is in Leonel Bermudez’s case with waterboarding and other forms of torture, settlements can reach staggering amounts.

  • ANDREW COFFEY — Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017): SAME FRATERNITY AS OUR CASE

    • Andrew Coffey, 20, died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” event. Nine fraternity members were charged with hazing, and the FSU chapter was permanently closed. The family reached a confidential settlement.
    • Relevance to our case: This is a crucial precedent for Leonel Bermudez’s case because it involves the exact same national fraternity, Pi Kappa Phi. This demonstrates a disturbing pattern of negligence by the national organization. They had Andrew Coffey’s death as a clear warning eight years prior to Leonel’s hospitalization, yet they failed to implement sufficient changes to prevent another tragedy. This establishes pattern evidence, which is vital for pursuing punitive damages.

Laws Created Because of Hazing Deaths

The impact of these cases extends beyond financial compensation. They have spurred legislative change designed to protect future students:

  • Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law (Pennsylvania, 2018): Imposed felony charges for hazing causing death and immunity for reporting.
  • Max Gruver Act (Louisiana, 2018): Made hazing a felony and significantly increased penalties.
  • Collin’s Law (Ohio, 2021): Named after Collin Wiant, also creating felony hazing charges.
  • Stop Campus Hazing Act (Federal, Pending): Requires colleges to publicly report hazing incidents.

These legislative actions underscore the societal demand for accountability in hazing incidents. They demonstrate that the public and legal systems take hazing seriously, viewing it not as a youthful indiscretion but as a dangerous and criminal act. Our own ongoing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi could potentially contribute to further legal reforms, especially in Texas, to better protect students.

Why These Precedents Matter for Wayne County, Georgia, Families

For families in Wayne County facing the aftermath of a hazing incident, these precedents offer powerful reassurance:

  1. Our $10 Million Demand Is Supported: The value we are seeking for Leonel Bermudez is not arbitrary; it’s consistent with what juries and settlements have awarded in comparable severe hazing cases.
  2. National Fraternities Have a Track Record: Pi Kappa Phi specifically, and many other large national organizations, have a documented history of hazing deaths and multi-million dollar payouts. They know the risks, yet their chapters continue the abuse.
  3. Universities Are Accountable: Just as Bowling Green State and Penn State faced liability, universities near Wayne County—where Greek life is prevalent—also bear substantial responsibility.
  4. Juries Hate Hazing: The egregious nature of hazing often incenses juries, leading to significant awards, including punitive damages designed to punish and deter.
  5. Your Case Can Make a Difference: By pursuing legal action, you not only seek justice for your child but also contribute to a national movement demanding safer campus environments.

The message is clear: hazing is not tolerated, and those responsible, from individual perpetrators to national organizations and universities, will be held accountable. We are ready to bring this battle to Wayne County, Georgia.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Legal Rights

When hazing strikes, victims and their families often feel powerless, particularly when facing intimidating institutions like universities and national fraternities. However, laws exist to protect students and hold perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable. For families in Wayne County, Georgia, understanding the legal framework, particularly concerning Texas where our firm is based, helps illuminate the path to justice. While we detail Texas hazing laws here, rest assured that similar anti-hazing statutes and civil liability theories exist in most states, and our federal court authority means we can pursue your case regardless of where the hazing occurred.

Texas Hazing Laws: A Shield for Students

The Texas Education Code § 37.151-37.157 specifically addresses anti-hazing. These laws provide a strong foundation for both criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits.

  • Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Texas law broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, that endangers a student’s mental or physical health or safety for the purpose of joining or maintaining membership in an organization. This includes:

    • Physical brutality: Whipping, beating, striking (like the wooden paddles Leonel endured), branding, electronic shocking, or similar activities.
    • Activities endangering health or safety: Sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement, calisthenics (like Leonel’s 500 squats and 100 pushups), or other activities creating an unreasonable risk of harm or adversely affecting mental or physical health.
    • Forced consumption: Of food (like Leonel’s forced milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns), liquid, alcohol, or other substances, leading to unreasonable risk or adverse health effects.
    • Violation of the Penal Code: Any activity that requires a student to perform a task that involves a violation of criminal law.
    • Coercion for substance consumption: Forcing consumption of drugs or excessive alcohol.

    The hazing Leonel Bermudez suffered—waterboarding, extreme calisthenics, forced eating, wooden paddles—clearly falls under multiple provisions of this definition, making it illegal in Texas. Similar definitions are found in anti-hazing laws in states across the country, including Georgia.

  • Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Hazing is a crime in Texas, with penalties ranging from Class B Misdemeanors (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine) for simply engaging in hazing, to Class A Misdemeanors (up to 1 year jail, $4,000 fine) if it causes serious bodily injury (which Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure certainly qualify as), and even a State Jail Felony (180 days to 2 years in state jail, $10,000 fine) if hazing causes death. This means that individual perpetrators, like those who hazed Leonel, can face criminal charges in addition to civil liability. The University of Houston spokesperson has already publicly mentioned “potential criminal charges” in the Bermudez case.

  • Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Organizations themselves can be penalized, facing fines up to $10,000, denial of the right to operate, and forfeiture of property. This provision is crucial for holding fraternities, sororities, and their national bodies accountable beyond individual members.

  • Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is perhaps the most critical legal protection for hazing victims. Texas law explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution… that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.” This means that the common defense used by fraternities—”he knew what he was getting into” or “he agreed to participate”—is legally invalid. Hazing victims often face immense pressure, coercion, and fear of retribution, making true consent impossible. This legal principle helps us dismantle a common defense used by those who inflict harm.

  • University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Universities in Texas are legally mandated to report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days. Failure to do so is also a Class B Misdemeanor. This provision ensures some level of transparency and accountability from institutions.

Civil Liability for Hazing: Beyond Criminal Charges

While criminal charges punish the wrongdoers, civil lawsuits provide financial compensation to victims and their families. This is where we aggressively pursue damages to cover medical bills, lost income, pain, and suffering. The civil claims available include:

  • Negligence Claims: This is a fundamental theory of liability. Institutions and individuals owe a “duty of care” to students. When they breach this duty by permitting or engaging in hazing, causing injury, they are negligent. This applies to universities that fail to supervise Greek life, national fraternities that don’t enforce policies, and individuals who act recklessly.
  • Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university or a fraternity housing corporation (like the University of Houston owning the Pi Kappa Phi house), they can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment.
  • Negligent Supervision: Universities and national organizations have a duty to adequately supervise their chapters and members. A failure to do so, leading to hazing injuries, constitutes negligent supervision.
  • Assault and Battery: The physical acts of hazing—such as the paddling or waterboarding Leonel endured—are intentional torts. Each individual who committed these acts can be sued for assault and battery.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): The extreme and outrageous nature of hazing, causing severe emotional distress (like PTSD, anxiety, or depression), can lead to a successful IIED claim. Waterboarding, recognized as torture, easily meets this threshold.

These civil claims are not unique to Texas; they form the basis of hazing lawsuits in states throughout the country. Our federal court admissions and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) strategically position us to handle cases involving national fraternities regardless of where they are headquartered. For Wayne County, Georgia, families, this means that even though our firm is headquartered in Houston, we have the legal reach and expertise to represent your child’s case against any institution or national organization.

Why Attorney 911: Your Unfair Advantage in Wayne County, Georgia, Hazing Litigation

When your child’s future is on the line due to hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need battle-tested advocates who understand the deceptive tactics of national fraternities and negligent universities. Our firm, Attorney 911, brings a unique and powerful combination of experience, insight, and aggressive dedication to every hazing case, making us the clear choice for families in Wayne County, Georgia, and across the nation.

25+ Years of Courtroom Experience: Ralph P. Manginello

Our managing partner, Ralph P. Manginello, isn’t just an attorney; he’s a veteran litigator with over 25 years of courtroom experience. He has faced down massive corporate defendants in cases like the BP Texas City explosion, which involved a multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation with 15 deaths and over 180 injuries. This experience against formidable opponents directly translates to effectively challenging national fraternities and major universities.

Ralph’s background as a former insurance defense attorney provides an invaluable “insider’s advantage.” He’s seen the insurance industry’s playbook firsthand—how they value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts. Now, he uses that knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for our clients.

His dual-state bar admissions in Texas and New York, coupled with his admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, gives our firm significant leverage when battling national Greek organizations headquartered across the country. Ralph’s journalism background also means he’s uniquely trained to investigate, uncover hidden facts, and tell compelling stories to juries—critical skills for exposing the truth behind hazing incidents. As a father of three, he deeply understands what’s at stake for families.

Insider Knowledge: Lupe E. Peña

Completing our formidable team, Lupe E. Peña (and yes, Lupe is male), brings an equally powerful perspective to our hazing litigation. Mr. Peña is also a former insurance defense attorney, having worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm. This means both of our lead attorneys possess insider insight into how insurance companies operate and defend against major liability claims. This “insurance counter-intelligence system” is truly an unfair advantage for our hazing victims.

Mr. Peña’s extensive experience on the defense side, handling product liability, personal injury defense, and commercial litigation, means he knows precisely what tactics universities and national fraternities’ legal teams will employ. He applies this deep understanding to “outwork, outsmart, and outfight” the other side, securing millions for his clients since transitioning to representing victims. As a third-generation Texan and fluent Spanish speaker, Mr. Peña is also uniquely equipped to serve Wayne County’s diverse families, breaking down communication barriers.

Key Differentiators for Wayne County Families

For families in Wayne County, Georgia, grappling with a hazing incident, here’s why Attorney 911 is the essential choice:

  • Active Hazing Litigation: We aren’t just hypothetically discussing hazing; we’re actively litigating a $10 million lawsuit right now. This is real-world, current experience.
  • Insider Insurance Knowledge: With both Ralph and Lupe having faced off against plaintiffs as defense counsel, we know their strategies and how to counter them effectively. They know which buttons to push to get results.
  • Federal Court Authority & Dual-State Licenses: Our ability to operate in federal courts and across multiple states (Texas and New York) is a strategic advantage when dealing with national fraternities and universities that have operations across the country, including those frequented by Wayne County students.
  • No Upfront Cost (Contingency Fees): We understand the financial strain you may be under. We work on a contingency fee basis; you don’t pay us unless and until we win your case. This eliminates the financial barrier to justice for Wayne County families. You can learn more about how this works at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
  • Nationwide Reach, Local Commitment: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our commitment extends to hazing victims nationwide, including Wayne County, Georgia. Distance is not a barrier to justice; we offer remote consultations and will travel to Wayne County for depositions, meetings, and trials when necessary.
  • Deep Personal Investment: Ralph, as a father, understands the gravity of these incidents. Our entire team approaches hazing cases with genuine passion and a fierce desire to protect students. We see your child as a person, not a case number.
  • Proven Track Record: Our firm’s success isn’t just in hazing; we’ve secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts in complex personal injury and wrongful death cases, demonstrating our capability against any opponent.
  • Client-Centered Approach: Our firm is celebrated for its warm, communicative, and responsive approach. Just like our client testimonials attest: “You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” And we are always available to answer your questions, as you can see from videos like “Will you keep me updated on my case?”
  • Comprehensive Evidence Analysis: We educate clients on the absolute importance of preserving evidence (see “Using Your Phone to Document Evidence” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) and warn against common mistakes that can ruin a case (see “Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY).

For families in Wayne County, Georgia, entrusting your child’s hazing case to Attorney 911 means gaining a dedicated, experienced, and strategically advantageous legal partner. We are prepared to bring our “Legal Emergency Lawyers™” ethos to bear on your family’s behalf, ensuring aggressive, immediate action.

What to Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Wayne County Hazing Victims and Families

If your child in Wayne County, Georgia, has been affected by hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. What you do—and what you don’t do—can significantly impact your ability to seek justice and recover compensation. We understand you’re scared, angry, and possibly overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve outlined clear, actionable steps to guide you through this difficult time.

1. Prioritize Medical Attention and Preserve Records

  • Seek immediate medical care: Your child’s health and safety are paramount. Even if injuries seem minor, get them thoroughly evaluated by a doctor. Some hazing injuries, like rhabdomyolysis or internal damage, may not be immediately apparent but can have serious long-term consequences. Insist that the medical staff meticulously document all injuries and the circumstances that led to them. Any delay in treatment can be used by the defense to argue that the injuries weren’t severe or directly caused by hazing.
  • Keep ALL medical records: Collect every piece of documentation: hospital records, emergency room reports, doctor’s notes, medical bills, prescription receipts, and therapy records. These will be crucial evidence in demonstrating the extent of the harm your child suffered.

2. Preserve All Evidence

Hazing cases often boil down to evidence, and it can disappear quickly. We cannot stress this enough: preserve everything.

  • Photos and Videos: Use your phone to document any visible injuries at all stages of healing—bruises, cuts, burns, swelling. If possible and safe, take photos or videos of the hazing location, any implements used, or relevant surroundings. Remember our advice from “Using Your Phone to Document Evidence” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs.
  • Communications: This is arguably the most vital evidence. Preserve all text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat messages, Instagram DMs, emails, or any other digital communications related to the hazing. These often contain direct evidence of peer pressure, threats, instructions, and even admissions. DO NOT delete anything.
  • Witness Information: If your child knows other pledges or witnesses to the hazing, discreetly gather their names and contact information. Their testimony can be invaluable.
  • Fraternity/Sorority Documents: Collect any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or other documents given to your child.
  • Financial Records: Keep track of any medical bills, lost wages (if applicable), and tuition or fees paid for semesters disrupted by the incident.
  • Academic Records: Document any impact on your child’s grades, enrollment status, or scholarships.

3. Critical “Do Nots” to Protect Your Case

The defense—including the fraternity, the university, and their insurance companies—will be trying to build a case against you. Avoid these common mistakes:

  • DO NOT delete any messages or posts: This constitutes spoliation of evidence and can severely harm your case.
  • DO NOT talk to fraternity/sorority leadership or members without legal counsel: They are not on your side and will try to protect the organization. Anything your child says can be used against them.
  • DO NOT sign anything from the organization or university: You might inadvertently waive your rights to future legal action.
  • DO NOT post about the incident on social media: Anything posted can and will be scrutinized by defense attorneys and used to undermine your child’s credibility or injuries. Our video “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident” emphasizes this crucial point.
  • DO NOT give statements to university administration alone: Universities have their own legal interests. Consult with your attorney first.
  • DO NOT speak with insurance adjusters without your attorney present: Insurance companies are not your friends. They are for-profit entities whose goal is to pay as little as possible. Adjusters are trained to manipulate you into saying things that can hurt your case. Our video “Never Talk to the Insurance Company After an Accident” underscores this.

4. Understand Legal Deadlines: The Statute of Limitations

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases (including hazing injuries) is generally two years from the date of injury, and for wrongful death cases, it’s two years from the date of death. While laws vary by state (for example, Georgia’s statute of limitations for personal injury is also two years), the principle is the same: time is not on your side.

  • DO NOT DELAY: Evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and organizations can destroy critical records. Waiting too long can mean losing your right to sue forever. Leonel Bermudez’s case moved quickly from hospitalization to lawsuit filing, demonstrating the urgency required. Our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c provides crucial information on this topic.

5. Contact Us Immediately: Your First Step Towards Justice

The most important step you can take after ensuring your child’s immediate health and safety is to call an experienced hazing litigation attorney.

  • Free Consultations: We offer a free, confidential consultation to families in Wayne County, Georgia, and nationwide. There’s no obligation, and it costs you nothing to learn about your rights and options.
  • 24/7 Availability: Hazing incidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do legal emergencies. Our hotline is available 24/7.
  • Remote Accessibility: We understand that Wayne County families may not be able to travel to our Texas offices. We offer video consultations and are committed to traveling to Georgia for depositions, client meetings, and trials when necessary. Distance will not be a barrier to justice.

For families in Wayne County, Georgia, whose child has suffered horrific hazing, the path forward starts with decisive action. We are here to guide you, protect your child’s rights, and aggressively pursue the accountability and compensation your family deserves.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline for Hazing in Wayne County, Georgia

If your family in Wayne County, Georgia, is facing the devastating aftermath of a hazing incident, please know that you do not have to endure this alone. We are Attorney 911 – Legal Emergency Lawyers™, and we are ready to bring our aggressive, experienced, and compassionate representation directly to you.

Wayne County, Georgia Families: Call Now for a Free Consultation

# 📞 1-888-ATTY-911

This is our dedicated legal and immediate help hotline. We are available 24/7 for hazing emergencies, because we know that legal emergencies don’t keep business hours.

Email Us Anytime:
ralph@atty911.com

Visit Our Website:
attorney911.com

Our Commitment to Wayne County, Georgia Families:

  • $0 Upfront Cost: We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay us absolutely nothing unless, and until, we win your case. There are no hourly fees and no hidden charges. We invest in your fight, shoulder the legal expenses, and only get paid when you do. This aligns our goals perfectly with yours and removes any financial barrier to seeking justice.
  • We Come to You: While our firm is based in Houston, with additional offices in Austin and Beaumont, Texas, our commitment to hazing victims extends nationwide, including Wayne County, Georgia. We regularly conduct video consultations with families who cannot travel, allowing you to meet our attorneys from the comfort and privacy of your home. For critical stages such as depositions, witness interviews, or trials, our team will travel to Wayne County, Georgia to ensure your case receives the personalized attention it deserves.
  • Nationwide Reach: Our federal court admissions and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) are strategic advantages that allow us to pursue cases against national fraternities, sororities, and universities, no matter where their headquarters are located or where your child’s college is.

Your Immediate Next Steps in Wayne County, Georgia:

  1. Contact Us Immediately: Do not delay. The statute of limitations (typically two years in most states, including Georgia, as in Texas) means evidence can disappear quickly, and your legal rights can expire. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 right now.
  2. Preserve Everything: Secure all medical records, photos, videos, text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat messages, emails, and any other evidence related to the hazing. Do not delete anything.
  3. Remain Silent: Do not speak with anyone from the fraternity/sorority, university administration, or their insurance companies without first consulting with your attorney. Anything you say can be used against you.
  4. Avoid Social Media: Refrain from posting about the incident on any social media platform.
  5. Seek Medical and Psychological Care: Ensure your child receives all necessary medical attention, both physical and psychological. Document everything.

Beyond Fraternities and Sororities: We Represent All Hazing Victims

Hazing is not confined to Greek life. We stand ready to represent victims of hazing in:

  • Fraternities and sororities at universities near Wayne County, Georgia, and nationwide.
  • Wayne County sports teams, including high school and college athletics.
  • Marching bands and other musical organizations.
  • ROTC programs and military academies.
  • Clubs, student groups, and any other organization that promotes abuse as “initiation.”

To Other Victims of Hazing: You Are Not Alone

If you or your child has been a victim of hazing, especially at the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi chapter or any other institution, our message is clear: You are not alone. There is strength in numbers, and courage in speaking out. As Lupe Peña eloquently stated about the Bermudez case, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Your decision to come forward could protect countless others.

Let us be your first responder in this legal emergency. We protect victims like you throughout Wayne County, Georgia, throughout Texas, and nationwide.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR Wayne County, Georgia HAZING VICTIMS. AGGRESSIVE REPRESENTATION. RESULTS.