If you’re reading this in Wheeler County, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went off to college, hoping to make friends and build a future. Instead, they were tortured. They were abused. They were hazed. We’re here to help families in Wheeler County fight back.

We understand the mix of fear, anger, and helplessness that grips parents when they realize their child has been victimized by hazing. Perhaps your child is a student at a program near Wheeler County, or attends one of Georgia’s notable institutions like the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia Southern, or Emory. Or maybe they ventured further, across state lines to a university where the same national fraternities and sororities operate. Regardless of where the incident occurred, the pain and confusion are universal. We want you to know that you are not alone, and there is powerful legal recourse available.

In our experience, hazing is not just a prank gone wrong. As we’ve seen time and again, it is often systematic abuse, meticulously planned and executed by groups who believe themselves above the law. These so-called “traditions” can lead to severe physical injury, lifelong psychological trauma, and, tragically, even death. For families in Wheeler County, the thought that their child, who left home full of hope, could be subjected to such cruelty is unbearable. We understand, and we are here to offer immediate, aggressive, and professional help.

The Landmark Case: Our $10 Million Fight Against Hazing and Institutional Negligence

We don’t just talk about hazing; we’re actively fighting it right now in Harris County, Texas. This case, Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al., is the centerpiece of everything we stand for: aggressive representation of hazing victims, data-driven litigation strategy, and relentless pursuit of accountability for every single entity responsible for hazing injuries.

Wheeler County Families: This Is What Hazing Looks Like. This Is What We Do About It.

This case happened in Houston, Texas, but the same hazing tactics inflict harm at universities across the nation, including those your children might attend. The same national fraternities operate in Georgia and near Wheeler County. The same institutional failures and negligence that allowed this to happen are prevalent at countless colleges and universities. We will bring the same level of aggression, thoroughness, and unwavering commitment to justice for Wheeler County families that we are bringing to this pivotal case in Houston.

News of Our Fight Travels Fast

The gravity of this case has captured the attention of major news outlets, highlighting the severity of the allegations and our firm’s commitment to holding powerful institutions accountable.

ABC13 Houston published their report on November 21, 2025: “Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges“
KHOU 11 covered the story on November 21, 2025: “$10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations“
Houston Chronicle followed up on November 22, 2025: “UH fraternity hazing lawsuit“
Houston Public Media provided further details on November 24, 2025: “University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing“

Even Pi Kappa Phi National recognized the severity, publishing their own statement about the chapter’s closure: “Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston” on November 21, 2025.

The Parties We’ve Held Accountable

Our $10 million lawsuit, filed in Harris County Civil District Court on November 21, 2025, names a comprehensive list of defendants, demonstrating our strategy of broad accountability:

Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter): The local chapter that directly orchestrated the hazing.
Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters: The national organization responsible for oversight and enforcement of anti-hazing policies across its many chapters.
Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation: The entity that owned or controlled the property where hazing occurred, holding premises liability.
University of Houston: The institution that owned the fraternity house, failed to prevent hazing despite prior incidents, and failed to supervise Greek life.
UH Board of Regents: The governing body with ultimate institutional oversight.
Fraternity President, Pledgemaster, and 13 Individual Fraternity Members: Including current and former members who participated in or facilitated the hazing, and even a former member’s spouse who allowed hazing to occur at their residence.

This extensive list underscores our commitment to pursuing justice against every single person and entity that bore responsibility, not just the easiest targets.

The Young Man at the Center of the Fight: Leonel Bermudez

Leonel Bermudez was not even a University of Houston student when he was subjected to horrific hazing. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member who had plans to transfer to UH for the upcoming semester. He accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on September 16, 2025. What followed were weeks of systematic abuse, torture, and hazing that led to him being hospitalized for three nights and four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

For Wheeler County families, Leonel’s story is a stark warning. Pi Kappa Phi operates over 150 chapters across America, including near major universities in Georgia. The same “traditions” that hospitalized Leonel can, and do, happen at fraternities across the country. Universities, including those in and around Wheeler County, face the same liability failures as the University of Houston. If your child is being hazed, we will fight for you with the same unwavering dedication as we are fighting for Leonel Bermudez.

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

And Lupe Pena, ever focused on impact, added: “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 Chilling Timeline of Abuse

The details of Leonel’s hazing are a testament to the systematic nature of this cruelty:

September 16, 2025: Leonel accepts a bid to Pi Kappa Phi.
September 16 – November 3, 2025: Weeks of relentless hazing, abuse, and torture unfold.
October 13, 2025: Another pledge is hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour, signifying the extreme psychological and physical abuse inflicted.
October 15, 2025: A pledge loses consciousness and collapses during a forced workout, requiring other pledges to elevate his legs until he revived – a clear sign of the dangerous physical exertion imposed.
November 3, 2025: The incident escalates dramatically. Leonel is forced to do over 100 pushups, 500 squats, and numerous other exercises while reciting the fraternity creed, under explicit threats of expulsion. He becomes so exhausted he cannot stand without help.
November 4-5, 2025: Leonel’s condition worsens, unable to move due to extreme muscle pain.
November 6, 2025: His mother rushes him to the hospital, where he is passing brown urine – a classic sign of severe muscle breakdown.
November 6-10, 2025: He spends four days hospitalized, diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National, reacting to the gravity of the situation, officially closes the Beta Nu Chapter.
November 21, 2025: We file the $10 million lawsuit in Harris County, with immediate media coverage.

The Hazing Activities: Not Pranks, But Torture

The lawsuit details a litany of horrific hazing acts:

Waterboarding / Simulated Drowning: Leonel was sprayed in the face with a garden hose while doing calisthenics, a practice that simulates drowning, recognized internationally as torture. The Houston Public Media rightly noted, “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.”
Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was compelled to consume large quantities of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited, then forced to continue running sprints while in physical distress, often made to lie in his own vomit.
Extreme Physical Punishment: This included over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (running drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warm-ups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was even subjected to being struck with wooden paddles. The physical demands were so severe that he collapsed, and another pledge lost consciousness.
Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather, carry a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature, and endure threats of physical punishment or expulsion for non-compliance. The incident of another pledge being hog-tied face-down with an object in his mouth for an hour highlights the dehumanizing nature of the ordeal.
Sleep Deprivation & Exhaustion: Forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, leading to dangerous levels of exhaustion.

The Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure

The immediate consequence of this abuse was rhabdomyolysis, a severe medical condition where damaged muscle tissue releases harmful proteins into the bloodstream. This can lead to acute kidney failure and, potentially, death. Leonel’s symptoms included passing brown urine (a classic sign of muscle breakdown), abnormally high creatine kinase levels (confirming muscle damage), and acute kidney failure. He required intensive medical treatment and a four-day hospitalization, and faces ongoing risks of permanent kidney damage.

We have specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases, with Ralph Manginello having successfully litigated cases involving this devastating condition before.

Institutional Responses: Admissions and Excuses

The University of Houston, through a spokesperson, stated that “The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards.” While this acknowledges the severity, it also admits to a failure in oversight. Pi Kappa Phi National’s statement, released the same day our lawsuit was filed, closed their Beta Nu Chapter due to “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” Crucially, they added, “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time.” This clearly demonstrates a lack of remorse and a readiness to resume operations without truly addressing the systemic issues that led to Leonel’s torture. Their closure of the chapter before our lawsuit shows they knew immense legal trouble was coming.

Why This Case Matters to Wheeler County Families

Proof That “Tradition” Is Torture: Hazing is not a harmless rite of passage. It is systematic abuse that happens at universities and colleges throughout Georgia, including those in or near Wheeler County.
Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where the hazing occurred. Colleges and universities in Georgia have the same power and duty to stop hazing, and the same legal liability when they fail to do so.
National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi’s national leadership immediately dissolved the chapter after Leonel’s hospitalization, proving they knew exactly how egregious the conduct was. These same national fraternities operate in Georgia and should be on notice.
Victims Are Afraid: Leonel Bermudez fears retribution for speaking out. Students in Wheeler County who are hazed face the same fear. We protect our clients fiercely.
One Brave Victim Can Protect Students: As Lupe Pena emphasized, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do.” Your case, even from Wheeler County, could be the catalyst for saving other lives.
$10 Million Sends a Message: This significant sum is not just compensation; it is a powerful message to all fraternities, universities, and national organizations that torturing our children will carry a severe cost. Wheeler County families can send the same message when they need to.

What Hazing Really Looks Like

The stereotypes of hazing, often perpetuated by popular culture, show seemingly harmless pranks or mild inconveniences. But the reality, as evidenced by Leonel Bermudez’s case and countless others nationwide, is far darker. Hazing is a calculated act of power and control, designed to break down a victim physically and psychologically. It is not “boys being boys.” It is not “tradition.” It is not “building brotherhood.”

It is:

Assault
Battery
Torture
Reckless endangerment
Often manslaughter
Sometimes murder

The Sobering Statistics

55% of students involved in Greek organizations experience hazing.
40% of student athletes report hazing.
Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every year in the United States.
95% of students who are hazed do NOT report it, often due to shame, fear of retaliation, or a misguided sense of loyalty.
Hazing is pervasive, occurring not only in fraternities and sororities but also sports teams, marching bands, ROTC, clubs, and various other student organizations.

The Institutional Failure

The truth is, universities and national Greek organizations are acutely aware of hazing. They have policies in place, anti-hazing week campaigns, and risk management guidelines. Yet, time and again, they fail to prevent horrific incidents. They choose not to act until a student is hospitalized or dies. Only then do they scramble to issue statements, “suspend” chapters, or express “shock” at what has transpired. This willful blindness and deliberate indifference enable a culture of abuse.

Common Types of Hazing Incidents

Drawing from the horrifying acts documented in Leonel Bermudez’s case and other reported incidents, hazing manifests in many forms:

Physical Abuse: This includes beatings, paddling, branding, burning, forced and excessive exercise to the point of exhaustion, and coerced physical contact that results in injury. Specific examples from Leonel’s case include wooden paddles, 500 squats, and high-volume running drills.
Forced Consumption: Victims are forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol (leading to binge drinking and alcohol poisoning), vast quantities of food (often until vomiting, as seen with Leonel), or even non-food substances.
Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often kept awake for prolonged periods, forced into late-night or early-morning activities, disrupting their physical and mental health. Leonel was compelled to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, leading to severe exhaustion.
Psychological Torture: This involves deliberate humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, isolation, threats, and acts designed to induce severe mental and emotional distress. Leonel’s experience with carrying sexually explicit objects and witnessing grotesque acts like hog-tying exemplifies this.
Sexual Abuse: Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, carrying sexual objects, or outright sexual assault can be part of hazing rituals. The fanny pack incident in Leonel’s case points to this insidious form of abuse.
Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As Leonel’s case tragically illustrates, this involves spraying water on a victim’s face to simulate drowning. It inflicts extreme terror and is a recognized form of torture.
Exposure: This can range from extreme cold (forced to strip in cold weather) or heat, to confinement in small, uncomfortable, or dangerous spaces.
Servitude: Pledges are often forced to perform menial or demeaning tasks for fraternity members, such as cleaning, driving, or running errands, reinforcing a power imbalance.

The Medical and Emotional Toll

The consequences of hazing are not merely discomfort. They are often profoundly damaging:

Physical Injuries: Rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure (as seen with Leonel), alcohol poisoning (a leading cause of hazing deaths), traumatic brain injuries (from falls or beatings), broken bones, burns, hypothermia/hyperthermia, internal injuries, and in the worst cases, cardiac arrest or death.
Psychological Trauma: Many victims suffer from PTSD, severe anxiety disorders, clinical depression, suicidal ideation, crippling trust issues, academic decline, social withdrawal, and even substance abuse as a coping mechanism. Leonel’s own fear of retribution underscores the lasting psychological impact.

Hazing is a complex problem with devastating consequences. For families in Wheeler County, understanding what it truly entails is the first step toward seeking justice and preventing further harm.

Who Is Responsible: Everyone Who Participated or Allowed It

One of the most crucial aspects of hazing litigation is identifying every single party that bears responsibility. It is never just a few “bad apples.” Hazing is a systemic problem, woven into the fabric of organizations and enabled by institutional complacency. For families in Wheeler County, it’s vital to understand that accountability extends far beyond the direct perpetrators.

In the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, our comprehensive approach to defendant identification showcases our intent to leave no stone unturned:

Local Chapter: The Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi directly organized and conducted the hazing activities. Their officers, including the president and pledgemaster, bore direct responsibility for coordinating these abuses. Members who actively participated or failed to intervene are also liable.
Individual Members: Every single individual who participated in the hazing, either by direct action or by enabling the environment, can be held personally accountable. This includes current members and even former members who hosted hazing activities at their private residences. In Leonel’s case, a former member and his spouse are named because hazing occurred at their home, placing premises liability on them for allowing torturous acts to transpire under their roof.
National Fraternity/Sorority Organizations: This is often where the “deep pockets” lie. Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, and organizations like it, are responsible for supervising local chapters, enforcing anti-hazing policies, and responding to allegations. Their failure to do so, especially when they have knowledge of a “hazing crisis” or prior deadly incidents (as Pi Kappa Phi did with Andrew Coffey’s death in 2017), makes them directly liable. National organizations typically have millions in assets and robust liability insurance policies.
Universities & Colleges: Institutions like the University of Houston, and those near Wheeler County, have a fundamental duty to protect their students. When a university owns or controls the property where hazing occurs, has oversight of Greek life, and fails to act despite documented prior incidents (as UH did with the 2017 Pi Kappa Alpha hazing case), they are directly liable for the harm caused. Universities hold immense power to regulate, suspend, or remove organizations that violate policy, and their failure to exercise this power is a dereliction of duty.
Housing Corporations: These entities often own the physical fraternity or sorority houses. They have a responsibility to ensure safe premises, and when hazing occurs on their property, they can be held liable under premises liability laws.
Insurance Carriers: Behind every national organization, university, and housing corporation are insurance policies designed to cover liabilities like these. As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena bring invaluable insider knowledge to the table, knowing exactly how to identify, pursue, and maximize claims against these carriers. This is how we ensure that the “deep pockets” are truly tapped to compensate victims.

It’s critical for Wheeler County families to understand that this is not about suing “broke college kids.” While individual perpetrators are held accountable, our primary focus is on the institutional defendants—the multi-million dollar organizations and universities that permit these behaviors to continue. We believe that true accountability means holding every responsible party to account, ensuring that the financial burden falls where it belongs and sending an undeniable message that hazing will no longer be tolerated.

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

For families reeling from hazing, the thought of legal action can be daunting. But the truth is, hazing cases win. They win big. The significant verdicts and settlements achieved in cases across the nation serve as undeniable proof that the legal system provides a powerful avenue for justice and substantial compensation. These precedents are not just numbers; they are the stories of families who fought back and secured accountability, forcing change and, in some cases, saving lives. These same legal strategies and the potential for similar outcomes apply to hazing cases originating from or affecting students in Wheeler County.

Landmark Verdicts & Settlements — They Will Pay

STONE FOLTZ — Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Total: $10.1 Million+
Stone Foltz died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation event. The settlement against Bowling Green State University was $2.9 million, and another $7.2 million was paid by Pi Kappa Alpha and various individuals. This public university hazing payout in Ohio’s history set a clear benchmark. More recently, in December 2024, a judgment of $6.5 million was awarded personally against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president. This proves that individual officers can face direct, heavy financial penalties, not just the institutions.

Relevance to Bermudez and Wheeler County: Our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is directly aligned with this precedent. It demonstrates that both universities and national fraternities are financially liable, and individuals cannot hide. For Wheeler County families, this means the value of justice is quantified, and we are aiming for comparable results.
MAXWELL GRUVER — Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017): Total: $6.1 Million Verdict
Maxwell Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, died from acute alcohol poisoning with a BAC of 0.495 after being forced to drink excessive alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” event at LSU. A jury later awarded his family a $6.1 million verdict. This case led to the passage of the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana, a testament to the powerful impact of these lawsuits.

Relevance to Bermudez and Wheeler County: This verdict underscores that juries are willing to award multi-million dollar sums for hazing-related deaths—even without a settlement. It also highlights how these cases often drive legislative change, raising the stakes for institutions nationwide, including those in Georgia.
TIMOTHY PIAZZA — Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017): Total: $110+ Million (Multiple Settlements)
Timothy Piazza died from a traumatic brain injury and abdominal bleeding after consuming 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi event. Fraternity brothers waited 12 hours before calling 911. Security cameras captured the entire horrific ordeal. The confidential settlements in this case are estimated to exceed $110 million, with multiple criminal convictions against fraternity members, including involuntary manslaughter. This case directly led to Pennsylvania’s stringent Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.

Relevance to Bermudez and Wheeler County: Piazza’s case is the gold standard for accountability. It demonstrates that when evidence is strong and egregious conduct is proven (as in Leonel’s detailed medical records and eyewitness accounts), the settlements can reach astronomical figures. It also shows the broad scope of criminal and civil liability.
ANDREW COFFEY — Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Same Fraternity as Our Case
Andrew Coffey died on November 3, 2017, from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” at FSU. His chapter was permanently closed, and nine fraternity members faced criminal charges.

Relevance to Bermudez and Wheeler County: This is crucial. Pi Kappa Phi—the same national organization in our current Bermudez case—had a hazing death in 2017. This establishes undeniable pattern evidence of negligence. Pi Kappa Phi had eight years since Coffey’s death to fix their deadly hazing culture. They failed. This directly supports our argument for punitive damages and underscores the national organization’s conscious indifference to student safety.

Other Important Cases

ADAM OAKES — Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021): $4+ Million Settlement
Adam Oakes died from alcohol poisoning after a Delta Chi hazing event. The family settled for over $4 million, and this case led to “Adam’s Law” in Virginia.
UT AUSTIN / SIGMA CHI (November 2025): Lawsuit Filed
Further emphasizing the urgency of the hazing crisis, a wrongful death lawsuit was recently filed regarding an 18-year-old freshman at the University of Texas at Austin who died by suicide after “horrific abuse” by Sigma Chi. This parallel Texas lawsuit highlights the current wave of hazing litigation.

Why These Precedents Matter for Wheeler County Families

Our $10 Million Demand Is Supported by Precedent: The figures from cases like Stone Foltz prove that our demand for Leonel Bermudez is not arbitrary; it’s based on established legal outcomes for severe hazing injuries, even when the victim survives.
Pi Kappa Phi Has a Deadly History: The fact that Pi Kappa Phi itself was involved in Andrew Coffey’s death in 2017 is a critical piece of evidence against the national organization, showing a pattern of negligence that allowed Leonel’s injuries to happen again eight years later.
Universities Are Repeatedly Negligent: The University of Houston had a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017. This confirms that institutions often ignore warnings, making them liable for foreseeable harm. Georgia universities face the same scrutiny.
Juries and Judges Hate Hazing: The justice system is increasingly taking hazing seriously. The egregious nature of acts like waterboarding, forced physical exertion, and violence elicits a strong response from juries, leading to significant awards, including punitive damages.
Hazing Leads to Criminal Charges: These cases frequently result in criminal charges alongside civil lawsuits, signaling the severe legal consequences for perpetrators at all levels.

These multi-million dollar outcomes are not abstract legal victories; they are the consequence of a legal system that, when effectively utilized, can force accountability, change dangerous cultures, and provide desperately needed resources to victims and their families. For Wheeler County families, these precedents provide a roadmap to justice.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights in Wheeler County

For families in Wheeler County, understanding the legal landscape around hazing can be critical. While our firm is based in Texas, where many of these landmark cases have originated, the fundamental principles of hazing laws and civil liability extend nationwide. Georgia, like Texas, has strong anti-hazing laws. And regardless of state-specific statutes, federal civil rights claims and general negligence principles apply everywhere, enabling us to represent hazing victims from Wheeler County to any university across the country.

Texas Hazing Laws (Education Code § 37.151-37.157)

Texas has some of the most comprehensive anti-hazing laws in the nation, mirroring the seriousness with which we approach these cases.

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 for the purpose of affiliation or membership in an organization. This includes physical brutality (like striking or beating), sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, calisthenics creating an unreasonable risk of harm, forced consumption of food or alcohol to the point of risk, or any activity requiring a violation of the Penal Code.

The hazing Leonel Bermudez endured—waterboarding, forced eating, wooden paddles, 500 squats to the point of kidney failure—met multiple criteria of this definition, making it a clear violation. For Wheeler County students, any similar conduct at a Georgia university would likely fall under analogous state laws or establish clear civil liability under common law.
Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Texas hazing laws carry serious criminal penalties:
- Class B Misdemeanor: For engaging in, soliciting, or failing to report hazing.
- Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes serious bodily injury (like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure). This means perpetrators can face up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
- State Jail Felony: If hazing causes death. This can result in two years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.
The University of Houston spokesperson even acknowledged “potential criminal charges” in Leonel’s case, demonstrating that institutions recognize the criminal severity of hazing.
Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Organizations themselves can be penalized if they condone, encourage, or have officers/members who commit hazing. Penalties can include fines up to $10,000, denial of operating rights, and forfeiture of property. This ensures that the collective entity, not just individuals, is held accountable.
Consent Is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is perhaps one of the most powerful provisions and a cornerstone of our legal strategy. 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 preemptively dismantles the most common defense raised by fraternities and universities: “He knew what he was signing up for” or “He willingly participated.” The law recognizes that true consent cannot be given under duress, peer pressure, or the threat of social exclusion. For Wheeler County families, this means the victim’s choices or perceived “consent” during hazing cannot be used to absolve perpetrators of legal responsibility.
University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Texas universities are legally obligated to report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor. This provision is crucial for uncovering institutional cover-ups and establishing a pattern of negligence by universities.

Civil Liability for Hazing — What Wheeler County Victims Can Sue For

Beyond criminal charges, civil lawsuits provide the means for victims and their families to recover comprehensive compensation for their suffering. These civil theories are widely applicable, regardless of whether the hazing occurred in Texas, Georgia, or any other state:

Negligence Claims: This is the most common civil claim. We argue that the university, national fraternity, and individual members had a duty of care to protect students, that they breached that duty through their actions or inactions, and this breach directly caused the victim’s injuries and resulting damages.
Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (as in Leonel’s case, where UH owned the fraternity house) or a housing corporation, the property owner has a responsibility to maintain a safe environment. Their failure to address dangerous conditions (like an active hazing environment) makes them liable.
Negligent Supervision: This theory applies when national organizations fail to adequately supervise their local chapters, allowing hazing to flourish. Similarly, universities can be held liable for failing to properly oversee Greek life on their campuses.
Assault and Battery: These are intentional torts that apply directly to physical hazing. Acts like waterboarding, paddling, or forced physical exertion constitute assault (threat of harm) and battery (actual harmful contact). Each perpetrator can be sued individually for these intentional acts.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): This claim addresses the severe psychological harm caused by hazing. It requires proving that the defendants engaged in extreme and outrageous conduct that intentionally or recklessly caused severe emotional distress. The psychological torture in Leonel’s case, including the emotional impact of waterboarding, strongly supports an IIED claim.
Wrongful Death: In the tragic event of a hazing death, families can file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages for their immense grief, loss of companionship, financial contributions of their loved one, and funeral expenses.

For Wheeler County families, these legal avenues ensure that justice can be pursued, that compensation can be recovered, and that the responsible parties—from individual students to powerful national organizations and universities—are held fully accountable under the law.

Precedent Cases: Multi-Million Dollar Proof of Accountability

For families in Wheeler County who are contemplating legal action after a hazing incident, understanding previous verdicts and settlements offers crucial insight into the potential for justice. These multi-million dollar outcomes are not just abstract legal victories; they are compelling proof that institutions and individuals responsible for hazing can and will be held accountable. These success stories provide a powerful roadmap for hazing victims, demonstrating that aggressive legal representation can lead to significant compensation and meaningful change.

The Message to Universities, Fraternities, and National Organizations: Hazing Costs Millions

Stone Foltz — Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021) — Total: $10.1 Million+
Stone Foltz tragically died from alcohol poisoning after a Pi Kappa Alpha hazing event. The resulting legal actions led to substantial payouts, including $2.9 million from Bowling Green State University and $7.2 million from the national fraternity and individuals. Notably, in December 2024, a verdict of $6.5 million was rendered directly against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, for his personal role. This landmark case, marking the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio’s history, set a powerful precedent for both institutional and individual liability.
- Implication for Wheeler County: This case directly validates our $10 million demand in the Bermudez lawsuit. It proves that both universities and national fraternities are on the hook, and that individual leaders face severe personal financial consequences. The same national Greek organizations operate at universities throughout Georgia, and these precedents apply directly to them.
Maxwell Gruver — Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017) — $6.1 Million Verdict
Maxwell Gruver’s life was tragically cut short at 18 due to acute alcohol poisoning during a Phi Delta Theta hazing event at LSU. The jury awarded his family $6.1 million, sending an undeniable message. This case was instrumental in the creation of the Max Gruver Act, which elevated hazing to a felony offense in Louisiana.
- Implication for Wheeler County: This jury verdict unequivocally shows that if institutions refuse to settle, courts are prepared to deliver multi-million dollar judgments. It underscores the profound moral and legal outrage that hazing provokes, which is a sentiment that resonates with communities everywhere, including in Wheeler County.
Timothy Piazza — Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017) — $110+ Million (Estimated Settlements)
Timothy Piazza died from catastrophic injuries after falling down stairs while severely intoxicated during a Beta Theta Pi hazing event, with fraternity members delaying calling for medical help for 12 hours. The subsequent legal actions, bolstered by damning security camera footage, resulted in confidential settlements estimated to be over $110 million. Numerous criminal charges followed, and Pennsylvania enacted the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.
- Implication for Wheeler County: This case demonstrates the immense financial and legal consequences when overwhelming evidence of egregious hazing comes to light. While not every case will involve secret cameras, thorough evidence collection and aggressive legal strategy can achieve similarly impactful results for Wheeler County victims.
Andrew Coffey — Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017) — Same National Fraternity
Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning at a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” at FSU after being forced to consume an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon. The chapter was permanently closed, and nine fraternity members faced criminal charges.
- Implication for Wheeler County: This case is particularly critical. It proves that the national Pi Kappa Phi organization, the same one we are currently suing in the Bermudez case, had a documented hazing death in 2017. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and a willful disregard for student safety, providing powerful grounds for punitive damages in current and future cases. It’s a stark warning to any Pi Kappa Phi chapter operating near Wheeler County: your national organization has a history of deadly hazing, and we are paying attention.
University of Houston / Pi Kappa Alpha (2017) — Same University as Bermudez Case
In 2017, a student at the University of Houston was hospitalized with a lacerated spleen due to hazing at the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. A $1 million lawsuit was filed, and a grand jury indicted the national organization.
- Implication for Wheeler County: This case highlights a critical point: the University of Houston, like many institutions across Georgia, had prior knowledge of severe hazing on its campus. Their failure to implement adequate preventative measures after this 2017 incident contributed to an environment where Leonel Bermudez could be brutalized years later. This is evidence of profound institutional negligence and foreseeability.

Hazing Legislation is Changing the Landscape

These tragic cases have not only resulted in financial accountability but have also spurred legislative action. Laws like the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania, and Collin’s Law in Ohio have strengthened anti-hazing statutes, often making hazing a felony and expanding the scope of criminal and civil liability. These laws reflect a growing societal intolerance for hazing, which bolsters our legal arguments for victims in Wheeler County.

The Strategic Value to Wheeler County Families

These precedents serve several vital functions for Wheeler County families considering legal action:

Validation of Claims: They affirm that hazing is a serious legal offense with significant consequences.
Financial Benchmark: They demonstrate the potential range of compensation, ensuring victims understand the true value of their suffering.
Proof of Institutional Failure: They establish a history across different institutions and fraternities that reinforces arguments of systemic negligence.
Deterrence: Every successful lawsuit sends a message, making institutions think twice before allowing dangerous behaviors to fester.

The history of hazing litigation shows a clear trend: when victims and their families courageously step forward, they can achieve justice, force accountability, and contribute to a safer environment for all students, including those from Wheeler County, Georgia.

Why Attorney911: Your Champion in the Fight Against Hazing in Wheeler County

For families in Wheeler County, choosing the right legal representation after a hazing incident is paramount. This isn’t just any personal injury case; it’s a battle against powerful institutions wielding extensive legal and financial resources. You need a legal team with specialized expertise, a proven track record, and a deep understanding of the unique complexities of hazing litigation. At Attorney911, we embody these qualities, offering unparalleled advantages to Wheeler County families.

Who We Are: Legal Emergency Lawyers™ Serving Wheeler County

We are Attorney911 Legal Emergency Lawyers™, a Texas-based personal injury and criminal defense law firm with offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont. While our physical offices are in Texas, our commitment to justice extends nationwide. We proudly serve hazing victims and their families in Wheeler County and across America, leveraging our federal court authority and unwavering readiness to travel wherever justice demands. Wheeler County families who face the nightmare of hazing deserve the same aggressive, expert representation we provide to our clients locally.

Key Differentiators: Why Wheeler County Families Choose Attorney911

Over 25 Years of Courtroom Experience: Ralph P. Manginello brings more than 25 years of battle-tested experience as a trial attorney. This extensive courtroom expertise is invaluable when facing formidable defendants like national fraternities and universities.
Former Insurance Defense Insight: Both Ralph P. Manginello and Lupe Eleno Peña worked on the defense side for insurance companies before dedicating their careers to representing victims. This means we know exactly how insurance companies strategize, how they try to minimize claims, and every tactic they use to deny payouts. We’ve seen their playbook from the inside, and now we use that knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for our clients. For Wheeler County families, this is an unfair advantage in your favor.
Federal Court Admissions: Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and other federal courts, provides us with the authority to pursue hazing cases in the federal system. This is crucial for national hazing cases that often involve multi-state defendants or federal civil rights violations.
Dual-State Bar Admission (Texas AND New York): Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York. This dual-state admission offers a strategic advantage, especially when pursuing cases against national fraternities and sororities that may be chartered or headquartered in different states, providing broader legal reach.
Se Habla Español: With Lupe Eleno Peña fluent in Spanish and our bilingual staff, we ensure that Spanish-speaking families in Wheeler County and elsewhere receive comprehensive legal services without language barriers, from initial consultation to courtroom proceedings.
Nationwide Hazing Expertise — Actively Litigating: We are not just general personal injury lawyers. We are currently leading the charge in a groundbreaking $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical; we’re in the fight right now, applying real-world data, legal strategy, and aggressive advocacy to secure justice. Wheeler County families benefit directly from this live, ongoing experience.
Unwavering Client Focus and Communication: We receive consistent praise for our communication and responsiveness. As one client, Dame Haskett, put it, “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer regarding my case.” We treat every Wheeler County family like our own.

Our Approach: First, Fast, Decisive for Wheeler County Hazing Victims

When a legal emergency strikes—especially one as devastating as hazing—we move first, fast, and decisively. For hazing victims in Wheeler County, our team:

Builds Cases with Expert Witnesses: We collaborate with medical experts, Greek life culture specialists, and institutional negligence experts to build an irrefutable case.
Preserves Evidence Immediately: We guide families on how to collect and preserve texts, photos, medical records, and witness statements, which is critical as evidence can disappear rapidly. (See our YouTube video: “Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case?“)
Negotiates from Strength: Our aggressive litigation in the $10 million UH hazing case means we negotiate with the power of proven action and a clear willingness to go to trial.
Travels to Wheeler County: Distance is never a barrier to justice. For depositions, critical meetings, and trials, our attorneys will travel to Wheeler County as needed to represent your interests.
Provides Remote Consultations: Wheeler County families can connect with our attorneys rapidly and conveniently through video consultations, ensuring immediate access to expert legal advice.

“If a university, fraternity, or insurance company tries to silence Wheeler County hazing victims, we take it to court.” This is our promise.

What Sets Us Apart for Wheeler County Victims

We understand Wheeler County families have choices. What truly distinguishes Attorney911 is our profound emotional investment in hazing victims. We’ve witnessed firsthand the devastation fraternities can inflict on young lives. We’re not just practicing law; we’re fighting for justice, right now, in the courtroom. We see your child as a person, not a case file, and we will fight fiercely for Wheeler County families because we deeply care.

Financial Flexibility: No Upfront Cost for Wheeler County Families

We understand the financial strains that families endure, especially after a harrowing incident like hazing. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means:

You pay $0 upfront.
We don’t get paid unless and until you get paid.
Our fees are a percentage of the final settlement or verdict, aligning our success directly with yours.

(Learn more about this on our YouTube channel: “How Contingency Fees Work“)

This ensures that the cost of legal representation is never a barrier to justice for Wheeler County families.

Trust Our Track Record

Our Google My Business rating of an outstanding 4.9 Stars from over 250 reviews speaks volumes about our commitment to client satisfaction and successful outcomes. Our clients consistently praise our communication, dedication, and ability to secure maximum settlements.

“What seemed to be a crisis for my family and I with no way out on how to fight or solve our case, Atty. Manginello stepped in and absolutely fought for us. A true PITT BULL and fighter. He don’t play!” — Chad Harris

This is the level of advocacy and passion you can expect from Attorney911 for your hazing case in Wheeler County. When you need immediate, aggressive, and professional help, when you need someone who truly understands what you’re up against, Attorney911 is here.

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

If your child has been subjected to hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. Panic, anger, and confusion are natural reactions, but swift, strategic action can profoundly impact the outcome of any potential legal claim. For families in Wheeler County, we offer clear, actionable guidance to protect your child’s rights and build a strong case for justice.

Immediate Action Plan for Wheeler County Hazing Victims:

Prioritize Immediate Medical Attention: Your child’s health and safety are paramount. If injuries are physical, seek emergency medical care immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, get them checked by a doctor and document everything. Traumatic events can mask pain, and serious conditions like rhabdomyolysis or internal injuries may not be immediately apparent. For psychological trauma, seek counseling from a qualified mental health professional. Every medical visit and diagnosis creates vital documentation for your case.
Preserve ALL Evidence: Hazing cases often depend on digital evidence.
- Text Messages & Group Chats: Do NOT delete any messages. Take screenshots of all relevant conversations, particularly from platforms like GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, and WhatsApp. Pay attention to dates, times, and participants. These messages can prove coordinated actions, threats, and knowledge of hazing.
- Photos & Videos: If any photos or videos of the hazing activities exist, preserve them securely. Also, take photos of any physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns) immediately, and continue to document their healing process over time. If possible, photograph the locations where hazing occurred.
- Documents: Save any pledge manuals, schedules, “rules” handed out, or communication from the fraternity/sorority or university related to the pledging process.
- Witness Information: Collect names and contact details of anyone who witnessed the hazing, including other pledges, fraternity/sorority members, or bystanders. Their testimony can be invaluable.
- Financial Records: Keep track of all medical bills, therapy costs, and any lost wages if your child missed work due to their injuries or recovery.
- Academic Records: Document any impact on your child’s academic performance, such as missed classes, failing grades, or deferred enrollment, as this can contribute to damages.
DO NOT Communicate with Responsible Parties Alone:
- Fraternity/Sorority Leadership: Do not speak directly with the chapter president, pledgemaster, national representatives, or alumni advisors without consulting legal counsel first. They are likely to try and minimize the incident, attempt to intimidate, or even pressure your child to sign documents that waive their rights.
- University Administration: While you may feel compelled to report the incident to the university, do so only after speaking with an attorney. University administrators have a duty to protect the institution, not necessarily your child’s legal interests. Any statements made could be used against your case.
- DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, sorority, or university without a lawyer reviewing them first.
- Social Media Blackout: It is crucial that your child (and you) avoid posting anything about the incident on social media. Anything posted can and will be used by the defense to discredit your child, their injuries, or their account of events. Avoid showing posts of your child happily socializing while claiming distress, for example. Similarly, resist the urge to delete old posts that could be perceived as “destroying evidence.”
- (Refer to our YouTube video on client mistakes: “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case“)
Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney IMMEDIATELY: The two-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases in most states, including Georgia, is unforgiving. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and opportunities diminish with time. Calling an attorney immediately ensures critical steps are taken to preserve evidence and initiate legal action before it’s too late. The quicker your legal team is involved, the stronger your case will be.
- (Learn about statutes of limitations: “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?“)

Qualifying a Hazing Case: What We Look For

When you contact us, we’ll assess your child’s situation based on several key factors to determine the viability and strength of a legal claim:

Clear Hazing Conduct: Does the behavior meet the legal definition of hazing in Georgia, Texas, or under federal law? (E.g., extreme physical brutality, forced consumption, psychological torment).
Documented Injuries: Are there medical records, therapist notes, or photos proving physical or psychological harm?
Identifiable Defendants: Can we name the individuals who perpetrated the hazing, the local chapter, the national organization, and the university?
Available Evidence: Are there texts, photos, videos, or witnesses willing to come forward?
Pattern of Abuse: Was this a one-time event, or does it seem like systematic hazing within the organization?
Institutional Knowledge: Did the university or national organization know, or should they have known, about hazing risks or prior incidents?
Timeliness: Is the incident within the applicable statute of limitations for legal action?

Our focus is on building an unassailable case from day one. Leonel Bermudez’s family acted immediately—he was hospitalized on November 6th, and our lawsuit was filed weeks later. This rapid, decisive action is how you maximize your chances for justice.

Damages and Compensation: What We Fight For

A successful hazing lawsuit can recover significant compensation for victims and their families, addressing a broad range of losses:

Economic Damages:
- Medical Expenses: Past and future costs of hospital stays, ER visits, doctor appointments, specialist care, medications, and rehabilitation (physical therapy, psychological counseling).
- Lost Wages/Academic Investment: Compensation for income lost by the student or family due to the incident, as well as the financial impact of academic disruption, deferred enrollment, or lost scholarships.
- Future Earning Capacity: If injuries (physical or psychological) are permanent, affecting long-term career prospects.
Non-Economic Damages: These address the intangible, yet profound, suffering:
- Physical Pain and Suffering: The agony of the hazing, the physical recovery, and any ongoing discomfort.
- Mental Anguish & Emotional Distress: The profound psychological toll, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, humiliation, shame, and the fear of retribution.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: The inability to participate in normal college activities or pursue passions, and the lasting impact on quality of life.
- Disfigurement: If injuries result in permanent scarring or other physical alterations.
Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme or outrageous conduct, gross negligence, or willful indifference (like waterboarding or ignoring a known “hazing crisis”), punitive damages can be awarded. These are designed not just to compensate the victim but to punish the wrongdoers and deter similar conduct in the future. The Texas cap for punitive damages can be substantial, and with multiple named defendants, these can add up significantly.

The journey to justice after hazing can be complex and emotionally draining. But with the right legal team, Wheeler County families can find strength, secure accountability, and help ensure that no other student suffers the same fate.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline in Wheeler County

If you’re a parent in Wheeler County, or your child (a student from Wheeler County) has suffered from hazing anywhere in the country, the time to act is now. The trauma of hazing can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face this battle alone. We are ready to be your legal emergency hotline, bringing our proven expertise, aggressive representation, and unwavering commitment to justice to your case, just as we are doing with the landmark Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit.

Wheeler County Families: Call Now – Free Consultation

We understand that you’re likely going through one of the most challenging times of your life. That’s why we offer a free, confidential consultation to discuss your child’s situation. There’s no obligation, just expert legal advice when you need it most.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

This hotline is available 24/7 for Wheeler County hazing emergencies. When you call, you’ll speak with a compassionate and knowledgeable member of our team who understands the urgency and sensitivity of your situation.

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

Remember, we work on CONTINGENCY for hazing cases. This means $0 upfront cost for Wheeler County families. We are fully invested in your success because we don’t get paid unless YOU get paid.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Wheeler County Hazing Case?

Actively Fighting Now: We are currently litigating a $10 MILLION hazing lawsuit involving identical issues to what your family may be facing. This isn’t theoretical – we are in the courtroom fighting for a hazing victim right now. Wheeler County families get the benefit of this active, cutting-edge experience.
Nationwide Reach: While headquartered in Houston, our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses allow us to represent hazing victims from Wheeler County and anywhere in the United States. We offer convenient video consultations so you can connect with us remotely, and we are prepared to travel to Wheeler County for depositions, meetings, and trials when necessary.
Insider Knowledge: Our legal team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know the strategies and tactics insurance companies and powerful institutions use to minimize payouts. We use this insider knowledge to your advantage.
Comprehensive Experience: Beyond hazing, our expertise spans personal injury, wrongful death, and catastrophic injury cases, giving us a holistic understanding of the severe harm victims endure.

What Wheeler County Hazing Victims and Families Should Do Right Now:

Seek Medical Care: If your child has not received medical attention for physical or psychological injuries related to hazing, please do so immediately. Documenting their injuries and treatment is paramount.
Preserve All Evidence: Securely save every text message, GroupMe chat, Snapchat, social media post, photo, video, and document related to the hazing. Do not delete anything. This evidence is crucial.
Refrain from Discussion: Do not discuss the incident with fraternity/sorority members, university officials, or their attorneys without legal representation. Do not post about it on social media.
Call Us Immediately: Time is of the essence. The sooner we get involved, the stronger your case will be, and the better we can preserve critical evidence before it disappears.

To Other Victims of Hazing: You Are Not Alone.

Perhaps your child was part of the same hazing group as Leonel Bermudez, or witnessed similar abuse at a university near Wheeler County. We know there are more victims. Other pledges were subjected to waterboarding, forced physical exertion, and humiliation. Another even collapsed and lost consciousness.

You have rights too. We can represent you, and your courage in coming forward can protect countless others. As Lupe Pena profoundly stated, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Whether the hazing occurred at a fraternity or sorority, a sports team, a marching band, an ROTC program, or any other student organization in or near Wheeler County, we are here to help. Hazing is a blight on our educational system, and we are committed to eradicating it through aggressive legal action.

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