If you’re reading this in Bergen County, New Jersey, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went off to college, hoping to find community and friendship, perhaps even joining a fraternity or sorority. Instead, they were tortured, abused, and potentially suffered lasting physical or psychological harm. We understand what you’re going through. We are Attorney 911, and we are here to help families in Bergen County fight back against the insidious cancer of hazing.

We are not just a law firm that occasionally handles hazing cases; we are actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit right now, fighting against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for the horrific injuries inflicted upon a young man named Leonel Bermudez. What happened to Leonel is a stark warning to parents in Bergen County and across the nation: hazing is not innocent fun or harmless tradition. It is violent, dangerous, and it happens more often than you think, even at institutions your children might attend. We will bring the same aggressive, data-driven, and relentless pursuit of justice to your family’s hazing case in Bergen County that we are bringing to ours in Texas.

The Landmark Case That Echoes in Bergen County: Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi & University of Houston

Just weeks ago, in November 2025, our firm, Attorney 911, filed a $10 million lawsuit that serves as a powerful testament to our commitment to hazing victims. This case, Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al., is not just a filing; it’s a living, ongoing battle in Harris County Civil District Court that vividly illustrates the extreme dangers of hazing and the lengths we will go to hold every responsible party accountable.

Leonel Bermudez was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity at the University of Houston who wasn’t even enrolled at the university yet; he was planning to transfer for the upcoming spring semester. This terrifying detail underscores the reckless disregard for student safety that permeates hazing culture. They did this to someone who wasn’t even their student.

Within weeks of the hazing being reported to us, the fraternity chapter was suspended, its members voted to surrender their charter, and the chapter was permanently closed. Criminal referrals were initiated against the individuals involved. Our firm filed a $10 million lawsuit naming not only the national fraternity and its local chapter and housing corporation, but also the University of Houston, its Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity members. This is the blueprint for how we will approach hazing cases for families in Bergen County.

What Happened to Leonel Bermudez: A Nightmare Made Real

Leonel Bermudez accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on September 16, 2025. What followed was a weeks-long nightmare of systematic abuse and psychological torture. The details are horrifying, and Bergen County families need to understand that this is what hazing looks like today:

Waterboarding with a Garden Hose: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose.” This is not a prank; it is torture, a method of interrogation designed to simulate drowning that is considered a war crime when inflicted on enemy combatants. Yet, it was done to a college student by his supposed “brothers.”
Hog-Tying and Sexual Humiliation: Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. Leonel himself was forced to carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature at all times. This level of degradation is designed to break a person’s spirit.
Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Leonel and other pledges were made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited. Then, they were forced to continue running sprints while physically distressed and to lie in their own vomit.
Extreme Physical Punishment: This included performing over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. Leonel was compelled to recite the fraternity creed during these exercises and threatened with expulsion if he stopped. He was exercised to the point where he could not stand without help. The Houston Chronicle also reported that pledges were struck with wooden paddles.
Medical Catastrophe: After a particularly brutal session on November 3, 2025, Leonel collapsed. He crawled home, but the next day he was too sore to move. His condition worsened, and on November 6, his mother rushed him to the hospital, where he was “passing brown urine”—a classic sign of muscle breakdown. He was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He spent three nights and four days hospitalized, fighting a life-threatening condition that can lead to permanent kidney damage or even death. Our client’s fear of retribution, as noted by us to ABC13, highlights the pervasive culture of intimidation.

“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,” Ralph Manginello told ABC13. This personal account underscores the brutal reality of hazing.

Media Shines a Light: No More Secrets

The severity of Leonel’s case garnered immediate attention from local Houston media outlets, bringing these horrifying details into the public discourse. This media exposure is crucial for holding institutions accountable and for informing parents in Bergen County about the real dangers:

ABC13 Houston: Reported on November 21-22, 2025, detailing the abuse and our attorneys’ quotes. They highlighted Leonel’s fear of retribution, a common thread among hazing victims.
KHOU 11: On November 21, 2025, this outlet first identified Leonel Bermudez by name and revealed that the hazing occurred in a “University-owned fraternity house,” directly implicating the University of Houston. They also reported that Pi Kappa Phi National had knowledge of “a hazing crisis” but failed to enforce anti-hazing rules.
Houston Chronicle: On November 22, 2025, they provided a detailed list of the brutal physical exercises and confirmed that pledges were “struck with wooden paddles,” further exposing the violent nature of the hazing.
Houston Public Media: On November 24, 2025, they confirmed the $10 million demand, elaborated on Leonel’s “ghost rush” status, and explicitly stated, “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.” They also published the University of Houston’s statement, admitting the events were “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of our community standards.”

Pi Kappa Phi’s Empty Words: “We Look Forward to Returning”

Pi Kappa Phi National’s own website, on November 21, 2025, publicly stated, “Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity closed its Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This closure occurred just seven days before our lawsuit was filed, a clear admission of guilt and an attempt to distance themselves, but a direct admission of violations that led to Leonel’s injuries.

Even more disturbingly, their statement concluded, “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time and continuing our partnership with the University of Houston in the years ahead.” This shows a shocking lack of remorse. While our client was recovering from kidney failure caused by their organization, Pi Kappa Phi was already planning its comeback. This demonstrates a systemic issue, one that requires significant legal pressure to change.

Why This Case Matters to Bergen County Families

The horrifying details of the Bermudez case are not isolated to Houston. Pi Kappa Phi has over 150 chapters across America, including near Bergen County, New Jersey. The same “traditions” that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez could easily happen at universities where Bergen County children attend. Universities near Bergen County face the same liability issues as the University of Houston when they fail to protect their students from hazing.

“If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough,” Lupe Pena declared to ABC13. Our firm is committed to this mission. For Bergen County families, our aggressive, data-driven approach to hazing litigation means that whether your child attends Rutgers University in New Brunswick, Seton Hall University in South Orange, Montclair State University in Montclair, or Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, the same legal strategies that apply in Houston apply to you.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

For many parents in Bergen County, the word “hazing” might bring to mind foolish pranks or mild inconveniences, remnants of outdated movies. However, the reality, as evidenced by Leonel Bermudez’s case, is far more sinister. Hazing today is rarely innocent fun; it is often brutal, life-threatening, and psychologically scarring.

We must dismantle the romanticized notion of “boys being boys” or “character-building traditions.” What happened to Leonel was not about brotherhood; it was about power, control, and inflicting pain. Hazing is a calculated act of abuse designed to break down individuals through physical, psychological, and often sexual torment under the guise of “initiation.”

Categories of Hazing: A Modern Lexicon of Abuse

Based on our cases and extensive research, hazing involves a spectrum of abuse:

Physical Abuse: This is what most people recognize as hazing, but it goes far beyond a slap on the back. It includes beatings, paddling, branding, burning, tattooing, being confined in small spaces, forced body shaving, tattooing, and extreme physical exertion to the point of collapse, injury, or in some cases, rhabdomyolysis or cardiac arrest. Leonel’s 500 squats, 100 pushups, and beatings with wooden paddles perfectly illustrate this.
Forced Consumption: Often involving alcohol, this leads to binge drinking, chugging, and alcohol poisoning. However, it also extends to forcing pledges to consume large quantities of food until vomiting, or even non-food substances. Forcing Leonel to eat hot dogs, milk, and peppercorns until he vomited, and then making him lie in it, is a clear example of this dehumanizing practice. This also includes forced consumption of illicit drugs, which can have fatal consequences.
Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often intentionally deprived of sleep through forced late-night activities, early morning wake-ups, and disruptive schedules. This weakens their physical and mental state, making them more susceptible to control and less likely to resist. Leonel was forced to drive fraternity members in the early morning hours, contributing to his exhaustion.
Psychological Torture: This category erodes a victim’s self-worth and mental health. It includes humiliation, verbal abuse, degradation, social isolation, implicit or explicit threats, and manipulative tactics. Forcing Leonel to carry a sexually explicit fanny pack and the hog-tying of another pledge falls squarely into psychological torture and extreme humiliation. The fear of retribution that hazing victims in Bergen County feel, as expressed by Leonel, is a direct result of this mental abuse.
Sexual Abuse and Harassment: This is a particularly heinous and often underreported aspect of hazing. It can involve forced nudity, unwanted sexual contact, forced sexual acts, or the use of sexually explicit props, as was the case with Leonel’s fanny pack. The psychological and emotional scars from such abuse can be lifelong.
Exposure to the Elements: Hazing can involve forcing individuals to endure extreme weather conditions without proper clothing or shelter, leading to hypothermia, hyperthermia, frostbite, or heatstroke. Leonel being forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather while being sprayed with a hose is a dangerous example.
Servitude and Personal Indignities: Pledges are often forced to act as personal servants, performing errands, cleaning, or driving members at all hours. This reinforces their subordinate status and perpetuates a cycle of abuse. Leonel was forced to drive members at all hours, contributing to his exhaustion.

The Medical Consequences: A Lifetime of Pain

The physical and psychological toll of hazing can be catastrophic. Beyond the immediate injuries, victims often suffer long-term health issues:

Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure: As tragically demonstrated by Leonel. This condition is a direct result of extreme physical overexertion, which leads to muscle breakdown and can cause acute kidney failure, permanent kidney damage, or death. Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis cases.
Alcohol Poisoning: The leading cause of hazing deaths, resulting from forced binge drinking.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From beatings, falls, or repeated head trauma.
Internal Injuries: From physical assaults or forced ingestion.
Bone Fractures and Soft Tissue Damage: From falls, beatings, or excessive exertion.
Psychological Trauma: Including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, and lasting trust issues. Many victims require extensive long-term therapy.
Death: The ultimate, irreversible consequence, leaving families in Bergen County shattered.

These are not trivial injuries. They are life-altering events suffered by students who sought acceptance and camaraderie, only to find themselves victims of brutality.

Who Is Responsible? Holding Every Entity Accountable

When hazing wreaks havoc on a student’s life in Bergen County, we believe that every single individual and institution—from the 18-year-old on up—that contributed to or enabled that harm must be held accountable. This is precisely the strategy we are deploying in the Bermudez case, and it’s the same comprehensive approach we will bring to your Bergen County hazing lawsuit.

1. The Local Chapter and Its Members: The Direct Perpetrators

The first line of responsibility lies with the members of the local fraternity or sorority chapter who directly inflicted the hazing. In the Bermudez case, this includes the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston, its fraternity president, pledgemaster, and 13 individual current and former members.

Chapter Officers: The president, pledgemaster, and other leaders are typically the architects and enforcers of hazing. They have a direct responsibility to ensure the safety of pledges/new members. Their actions, or inactions, can lead to severe liability.
Individual Members: Every member who participates in, encourages, or even witnesses hazing and fails to intervene can be held personally liable for assault, battery, and negligence. Some may attempt to hide behind the organization, but as the Stone Foltz case against Daylen Dunson demonstrated, individuals can be held personally accountable for millions.
Former Members: As seen in the Bermudez case, alumni members who provide locations or assist in hazing activities are equally liable. If hazing occurs at an off-campus residence, the homeowner (and their spouse, if complicit by allowing it) can be sued as well, often bringing their homeowner’s insurance into play.

2. The National Organization: The Ultimate Enabler

Behind every college chapter stands a powerful national fraternity or sorority organization. These entities often have vast financial resources, liability insurance policies in the millions, and a legal duty to supervise their local chapters. In the Bermudez case, we sued Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters and its Housing Corporation.

Failure to Supervise: Despite anti-hazing policies on paper, national organizations frequently fail to adequately train, audit, or oversee their local chapters. The Andrew Coffey tragedy in 2017, where a Florida State Pi Kappa Phi pledge died, put Pi Kappa Phi National on notice. Eight years later, Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized. This pattern clearly demonstrates a failure to act.
Knowledge of Hazing Culture: Many national organizations have internal reporting mechanisms and historical data about hazing incidents within their chapters. KHOU 11 reported that Pi Kappa Phi National knew about “a hazing crisis.” This prior knowledge, coupled with continued inaction, can lead to charges of gross negligence and deliberate indifference.
Deep Pockets: These national bodies are often the “deep pockets” in hazing lawsuits, possessing the financial assets and insurance coverage to pay multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. They have a responsibility to act, and when they don’t, we make them pay. Our firm keeps an extensive Texas Hazing Intelligence Database to track all entities behind the Greek letters.

3. The University or College: The Gatekeeper That Failed

Universities and colleges have an inherent responsibility to provide a safe environment for their students, and this extends to monitoring and regulating Greek life. In the Bermudez case, we specifically named the University of Houston and its Board of Regents as defendants.

Institutional Negligence: Universities have a duty to protect their students from foreseeable harm. When they know (or should know) that hazing is rampant in their Greek system, but fail to implement effective preventive measures, that is negligence. The University of Houston’s prior hazing hospitalization in 2017 (a Pi Kappa Alpha pledge suffered a lacerated spleen) proved they had knowledge and failed to act before Leonel’s incident.
Control over Property: Critically, KHOU 11 reported that the primary hazing in the Bermudez case occurred in a “University-owned fraternity house.” This directly implicates the University of Houston under premises liability laws, meaning they are responsible for dangerous conditions on their property. They collected rent while egregious hazing occurred on their own property.
Power to Regulate: Universities have significant power to regulate, suspend, or even ban fraternities and sororities. When they hesitate to use this power, or turn a blind eye to widespread hazing, they become complicit.
Title IX Violations: Hazing cases, particularly those involving sexual abuse or harassment, often fall under Title IX, increasing the university’s legal exposure for failing to address gender-based violence and discrimination.

4. Insurance Carriers: The Ultimate Payers

Behind every organizational and individual defendant stand insurance companies. Leveraging our firm’s expertise, particularly Lupe Peña’s background as a former attorney for a national insurance defense firm, gives us an insider advantage. We know their strategies; we know how to secure maximum compensation by targeting:

National Organization’s Liability Policies: These often provide coverage in the millions.
University’s Institutional Liability Policies: Covering negligence, premises liability, and Title IX violations.
Local Chapter’s Insurance: If separate.
Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance: For individuals who host hazing events in their residences. These policies can often provide significant coverage for specific incidents.
Individual Liability Policies: Though less common, some individuals may have umbrella policies.

We pursue every single one of these avenues to maximize recovery for our clients. It is not about bankrupting college students; it is about holding powerful, well-insured institutions accountable for their failures.

What These Hazing Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof

For families in Bergen County struggling with the aftermath of hazing, the question of “what can we do?” often comes with a financial worry. The good news is that hazing cases against fraternities, universities, and their national organizations consistently result in multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. These are not hypothetical outcomes; they are proven results that demonstrate the severity of the harm and the accountability forced upon negligent institutions. Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is not an outlier; it is perfectly in line with established legal precedent.

When Lupe Pena 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,” he encapsulated our commitment to not only secure justice for our clients but also to drive change through significant financial penalties and public exposure.

Precedent Cases: A Clear Path to Accountability

Here are some of the landmark hazing settlements and verdicts that pave the way for successful litigation in Bergen County:

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

Total Recovery: $10.1 Million+
What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, a pledge at BGSU, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha hazing event. He was found unresponsive and died from alcohol poisoning.
Settlements: Bowling Green State University settled for $2.9 million, and Pi Kappa Alpha National, along with other individuals, settled for $7.2 million. In a separate, recent development in December 2024, the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was ordered to pay the Foltz family an additional $6.5 million in a personal judgment. The Foltz family initially sought $54 million.
Relevance for Bergen County: This case directly supports our $10 million demand, demonstrating that courts and juries value hazing injuries, even when not fatal, in the multi-million dollar range. It also proves that universities have significant liability, and individual officers can be held personally responsible for millions.

2. Maxwell Gruver — Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Total Verdict: $6.1 Million
What Happened: In September 2017, Max Gruver was forced to consume excessive alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta hazing ritual called “Bible Study.” He died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495—six times the legal limit.
Outcome: A jury delivered a $6.1 million verdict against the fraternity. A former fraternity member was convicted of negligent homicide and sentenced to prison. The case also led to the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
Relevance for Bergen County: A jury’s willingness to award millions for a hazing death underscores the public’s condemnation of these acts. It shows that when institutions refuse to settle, juries will force accountability.

3. Timothy Piazza — Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017)

Total Settlement: $110 Million+ (Estimated)
What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi hazing event. He fell down a flight of stairs, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911, and he later died. Security cameras captured the entire horrific event.
Outcome: Multiple civil settlements, estimated at over $110 million. 18 fraternity members faced criminal charges, with multiple convictions for involuntary manslaughter and hazing. This case also led to Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.”
Relevance for Bergen County: Strong evidence of egregious conduct leads to massive settlements. When institutions try to cover up or fail to act, the financial consequences can be staggering. We will ensure similar evidence is preserved for our Bergen County clients.

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

Outcome: Fraternity Death & Criminal Charges
What Happened: On November 3, 2017, Andrew Coffey, a Pi Kappa Phi pledge at FSU, was forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon, dying from acute alcohol poisoning.
Relevance for Bergen County (and the Bermudez case): This is the same national fraternity as in our current lawsuit. The fact that Pi Kappa Phi National had knowledge of a death in 2017, yet failed to prevent Leonel Bermudez’s hospitalization in 2025, demonstrates a clear pattern of negligence and conscious indifference to student safety. This pattern is critical for seeking punitive damages against Pi Kappa Phi.

5. Adam Oakes — Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021)

Total Settlement: $4 Million+
What Happened: In February 2021, Adam Oakes died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume a liter of Jack Daniel’s whiskey during a Delta Chi hazing event at VCU.
Outcome: The family reached a multi-million dollar settlement, reported to be over $4 million, after having originally sued for $28 million. Several fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the case led to “Adam’s Law” in Virginia.
Relevance for Bergen County: Another recent example of multi-million dollar settlements for hazing deaths.

6. UT Austin Sigma Chi (November 2025)

Outcome: Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed
What Happened: Just weeks ago, coinciding with the Bermudez filing, a wrongful death lawsuit was filed regarding the death by suicide of an 18-year-old freshman after “horrific abuse” during a Sigma Chi hazing incident at the University of Texas at Austin.
Relevance for Bergen County: This new Texas case highlights the widespread nature and severe consequences of hazing, even leading to suicide, further underscoring the urgency and importance of our firm’s work.

The Message to Bergen County Fraternities and Universities: It Will Cost Millions

These cases send an unambiguous message: universities and national fraternities that enable hazing will face severe financial penalties. For Bergen County families, this means that justice, and significant compensation, is entirely within reach.

Our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez is supported by these precedents. His injuries, though not fatal, are severe and life-threatening, requiring extensive medical care and potentially leading to permanent damage.
Juries in Bergen County, like juries nationwide, are outraged by hazing. The egregious nature of the acts against Leonel (waterboarding, forced eating, paddles, 500 squats, kidney failure) will likely appeal to a jury’s sense of justice, as it did in the Gruver case.
The criminal consequences increasingly follow hazing incidents. As seen in the Piazza and Gruver cases, hazing can lead to felony charges. The University of Houston spokesperson mentioned “potential criminal charges” in Leonel’s case, confirming the criminal element inherent in severe hazing.

These precedents show that when data-driven legal teams like Attorney 911 take on hazing, the responsible parties are forced to pay, and often, new laws are created to protect future generations.

New Jersey Hazing Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights

For Bergen County families, it’s crucial to understand that New Jersey has robust anti-hazing laws designed to protect students and hold perpetrators accountable. While our firm is based in Texas, the principles of civil liability and the egregious nature of hazing transcend state lines, and our federal court authority allows us to pursue cases for Bergen County victims regardless of location.

Defining Hazing in New Jersey: Janet’s Law

New Jersey’s anti-hazing statute, commonly known as Janet’s Law, criminalizes actions that “endanger the health or safety” of a student.

New Jersey Hazing Definition (N.J.S.A. 18A:3-26):

“Hazing” means any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for purposes of initiation or admission into or affiliation with any organization operating under the sanction of a school or higher education institution.

This definition covers acts that occur both on and off campus, as long as they are for the purpose of initiation or affiliation with a school-sanctioned organization.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing in New Jersey (N.J.S.A. 2C:40-14):

Disorderly Person’s Offense: Engaging in hazing can result in fines and up to six months in jail.
Fourth Degree Crime: If the hazing results in bodily injury, it becomes a crime of the fourth degree, carrying potential prison time.
Third Degree Crime: If hazing results in serious bodily injury, it is a crime of the third degree, with more significant prison sentences.

Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure would undoubtedly constitute “serious bodily injury” under New Jersey law, elevating the criminal charges against perpetrators.

Consent is NOT a Defense in New Jersey

Just like in Texas, New Jersey law specifically prohibits using consent as a defense in hazing cases. N.J.S.A. 2C:40-14(b) states:

“It shall not be a defense to a prosecution for hazing that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

This is a critical provision for Bergen County families. Fraternities and universities often try to shift blame to the victim by arguing they “voluntarily participated.” New Jersey law explicitly rejects this defense, acknowledging the coercive power dynamics inherent in hazing.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Charges

While criminal charges punish the perpetrators and send a message to society, a civil lawsuit allows victims and their families in Bergen County to recover full compensation for their injuries and losses. This is where Attorney 911 excels.

Negligence Claims: This is the most common civil claim. We would argue that the fraternity, national organization, and university owed a duty of care to the student to prevent harm, breached that duty through their actions or inactions (like allowing hazing), and that this breach directly caused the student’s injuries and damages.
Premises Liability: If hazing occurred on property owned or controlled by the university or fraternity, they can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment.
Negligent Supervision: This applies when national organizations fail to adequately oversee their chapters, or when universities fail to monitor Greek life activities on their campus, allowing hazing to occur.
Assault and Battery: Individual fraternity members who physically harm pledges can be sued directly for intentional torts.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For extreme and outrageous conduct that causes severe psychological harm, such as the waterboarding and psychological torture Leonel endured.
Wrongful Death: In the tragic event of a hazing-related death, families can pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, lost future earnings, and other damages.
Fraud: If the fraternity or university made false promises about a safe experience or misrepresented its anti-hazing policies, a fraud claim may be possible.

Federal Civil Rights Claims and Title IX

Beyond state hazing laws, federal laws can provide additional avenues for accountability. Our firm has federal court authority, meaning we can pursue hazing cases in federal jurisdiction, which is particularly relevant in cases against national organizations or when civil rights violations occur.

Title IX: If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, gender-based discrimination, or severe peer-on-peer harassment that creates a hostile educational environment (especially in sororities or if gender is a factor), universities can face massive liability under Title IX for failing to respond appropriately.
Section 1983 (Civil Rights Act): In certain circumstances, if a state institution (like a public university) or individuals acting under state authority violate a student’s constitutional rights through hazing, a Section 1983 claim may be possible.

Statute of Limitations: Time is Critical for Bergen County Families

New Jersey has a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including those arising from hazing. This means a lawsuit must typically be filed within two years of the injury. For wrongful death claims, the two-year clock generally starts from the date of death.

Do not wait. Evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and the window for legal action can close forever. The moment hazing is suspected or confirmed in Bergen County, swift action is paramount.

Why Attorney 911 Is the Obvious Choice for Bergen County Hazing Victims

When your child is harmed by hazing, you need immediate, aggressive, and expert legal help. You need a law firm that doesn’t just understand the law but also understands the nuanced, often hidden culture of Greek life and university administration. Attorney 911 is that firm, and we proudly serve Bergen County families with a combination of unparalleled experience, strategic insight, and a genuine commitment to justice.

We are not a local Bergen County general practice firm learning about hazing for the first time. We are a national force in hazing litigation, currently in the trenches of a $10 million lawsuit against a national fraternity and a major university. This is what we do. And we do it with passion, precision, and an unyielding commitment to our clients.

Our Unmatched Advantages for Bergen County Families:

Active, Front-Line Hazing Litigation Experience: We aren’t just talking about hazing; we’re actively fighting it right now in the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case. This means we have real-time insight into the tactics defendants use, the evidence needed, and the strategies that win. Bergen County families benefit directly from this cutting-edge experience.
Insider Knowledge from Former Insurance Defense Attorneys: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are former insurance defense attorneys. Mr. Peña, in particular, worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a national defense firm. This means we literally know the defense’s playbook because we helped write it. We understand how large insurance companies and powerful institutions value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts. We use this invaluable insider knowledge to dismantle their arguments and maximize recovery for our Bergen County clients.
Federal Court Authority and Dual-State Bar Admissions: Our admission to the U.S. District Court and Mr. Manginello’s dual licenses in Texas and New York give us a strategic edge. This allows us to pursue national fraternities and universities in federal court, wherever they may be headquartered or operate, providing a powerful advantage for Bergen County cases against national organizations.
Proven Track Record Against Powerful Corporations: Ralph Manginello’s experience in the BP Texas City Explosion litigation demonstrates his capability to take on massive corporate defendants in complex, high-stakes mass tort cases. This same tenacity and strategic acumen are applied to hazing cases, where universities and national fraternities possess vast resources and legal teams.
Unwavering Pursuit of All Liable Parties: As demonstrated in the Bermudez case, we meticulously identify every potential defendant: the local chapter, national organization, housing corporation, the university, its governing body, individual fraternity members, and even alumni and their spouses. We leave no stone unturned to ensure every responsible entity is held accountable.
Deep Expertise in Medical Legal Issues: Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis cases, the exact condition Leonel Bermudez suffered. This medical-legal insight is critical for accurately valuing damages, proving causation, and countering defense arguments about the severity of injuries.
Data-Driven Litigation Strategy: We maintain an extensive database of Greek organizations and hazing incidents. This allows us to connect patterns of abuse, demonstrate foreseeability, and identify repeat offenders, without guess-work. We already know who to sue and how to build a powerful case against them.
Compassionate and Aggressive Representation: While we are relentless in the courtroom, we approach our clients with empathy and understanding. We know the emotional and psychological toll hazing takes on victims and their families. Our bilingual staff ensures that Spanish-speaking Bergen County families receive comprehensive support.
Contingency Fee Basis: No Upfront Costs for Bergen County Families: We understand that the financial burden of a hazing incident can be overwhelming. We take hazing cases on a contingency basis, meaning you pay absolutely nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This eliminates the financial barrier, allowing any Bergen County family to access top-tier legal representation.
A Father’s Dedication: As a father of three, Ralph Manginello deeply understands what’s at stake when a child is harmed by hazing. This personal commitment fuels our determination to fight for every Bergen County family as if they were our own.
Willingness to Travel for Justice: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, distance is not a barrier to justice. We offer remote consultations via video, and for key meetings, depositions, or trials, we will travel to Bergen County to ensure your case receives the personalized attention it deserves.

We are Attorney 911, and our track record speaks for itself. With a 4.9-star rating and over 250 reviews on Google My Business, our clients consistently praise our communication, dedication, and ability to secure maximum settlements. As Chad Harris, a satisfied client, put it, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client that’s caught in the middle of many other cases. You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.”

What to Do Right Now for Bergen County Hazing Victims

If you or your child in Bergen County has been a victim of hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. How you respond can significantly impact your physical recovery, mental well-being, and the strength of any potential legal claim. Do not delay; act swiftly and decisively.

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Attention

Your health is paramount. If hazing has resulted in physical injury, medical distress, or psychological trauma, seek help immediately.

Seek Medical Care: Even if injuries seem minor or you feel “fine,” get a comprehensive medical evaluation. Injuries like rhabdomyolysis, concussions, or internal trauma may not manifest immediately. Medical records are crucial evidence. Tell doctors exactly how the injury occurred and attribute it to hazing. Save all medical records, bills, and prescriptions.
Call 911 if Necessary: For severe injuries or immediate danger, do not hesitate to call emergency services.
Prioritize Mental Health: Hazing leaves deep psychological scars. Seek counseling or therapy immediately if you are experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or thoughts of self-harm. Preserve all therapy records.

Step 2: Preserve Every Piece of Evidence

Hazing is often conducted in secret, and perpetrators will try to destroy evidence. You must act quickly to preserve anything that documents the abuse.

Document Injuries: Take clear, timestamped photographs and videos of all physical injuries, bruises, cuts, burns, or other visible signs of trauma. Continue documenting the healing process over time.
Save All Communications: Collect and screenshot every text message, GroupMe chat, Snapchat, Instagram DM, email, or social media post related to the hazing. This includes communications from fraternity/sorority members, pledges, alumni, or university officials. Do not delete anything, even if it seems irrelevant or embarrassing.
Identify Witnesses: Gather the names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the hazing, knew about it, or can corroborate your story. This includes other pledges, members who disapproved, or even bystanders.
Collect Physical Evidence: If there are any physical objects related to the hazing (e.g., paddles, damaged clothing, fraternity paraphernalia), preserve them carefully.
Save Documents: Keep any “pledge manuals,” schedules, rules, or other documents provided by the organization.
Financial and Academic Records: Document medical bills, lost wages from missed work, tuition fees for semesters disrupted, or any lost scholarship opportunities.

Step 3: Avoid Common Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

Hazing victims, often in a state of trauma, can inadvertently damage their legal claims. Beware of these critical mistakes:

Do NOT Delete Anything (Electronic or Physical): Deleting messages, social media posts, or physical evidence can be seen as spoliation of evidence and severely harm your case.
Do NOT Talk to the Fraternity/Sorority Leadership Without Legal Counsel: They are not your friends. They will try to get you to sign waivers, minimize the incident, or pressure you into silence. They are protecting themselves and the organization, not you.
Do NOT Make Statements to University Administrators Alone: While reporting to the university is important (see next step), do not give official statements or sign documents without first consulting an attorney. University officials, primarily, protect the institution’s liability.
Do NOT Post About the Incident on Social Media: Anything you post can and will be used against you by the defense to undermine your credibility or the severity of your injuries. Even seemingly innocuous posts showing you enjoying yourself can be twisted.
Do NOT Accept Any Settlement Offers Without Legal Review: Fraternities, universities, or their insurance companies may offer quick, lowball settlements to make the problem disappear. Do not sign anything or accept any money without consulting an attorney.
Do NOT Delay Seeking Legal Advice: The two-year statute of limitations in New Jersey is a strict deadline. Beyond that, evidence disappears, memories fade, and the defense organizes its strategy. The sooner you involve an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

Step 4: Report the Hazing Incident

Reporting hazing is crucial not only for your legal case but also to prevent future incidents.

To University Officials: Report the hazing to the Dean of Students, Greek Life office, or Title IX coordinator. Under New Jersey law, educational institutions have a duty to investigate and address hazing.
To Law Enforcement: Hazing, especially if it involves bodily injury or sexual abuse, is a crime. File a police report with local law enforcement in Bergen County. This can initiate a criminal investigation parallel to your civil lawsuit.
To the National Fraternity/Sorority (with caution): While sometimes necessary, we generally advise against direct contact without legal counsel. The national organization will likely prioritize damage control.

Step 5: Contact Attorney 911 Immediately for a Free Consultation

This is the most crucial step. You do not have to fight this battle alone. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, is ready to fight for you.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911: Our hotline is available 24/7 for Bergen County hazing emergencies.
Email: You can also reach us at ralph@atty911.com.
Free, Confidential Consultation: We offer a completely free and confidential case evaluation. There’s no obligation, and you’ll receive expert advice on your legal options.
We Work on Contingency: You pay absolutely no upfront fees. We only get paid if we win your case.
Remote Consultations and Statewide Reach: We can conduct video consultations with Bergen County families, regardless of where the hazing occurred. We have the legal authority and willingness to travel to Bergen County for depositions, meetings, and trials as needed.

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

If you’re in Bergen County, New Jersey, and your family has been devastated by hazing, you are facing a legal emergency. We are Attorney 911 — your Legal Emergency Lawyers™. We will shut down your emergency, just as we are doing for Leonel Bermudez and his family. We are actively fighting this fight right now, and we will bring the same aggressive, data-driven, and relentless pursuit of justice to your family’s hazing case in Bergen County.

Bergen County Families: Have you or your child been hazed?

You have legal rights. We are fighting this fight right now—and we’ll fight for Bergen County victims too. Our attorneys are currently representing a hazing victim against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston in a $10 million lawsuit. We know how to build these cases. We know how to hold institutions accountable. We know how to win. Bergen County families get the same aggressive representation.

Bergen County Families — Call Now — Free Consultation

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com
Available 24/7 for Bergen County hazing emergencies.

We work on CONTINGENCY — $0 upfront for Bergen County families. We don’t get paid unless YOU get paid.

We Serve Bergen County Hazing Victims — And Hazing Victims Nationwide

While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, hazing happens at colleges and universities across America, including those near Bergen County, New Jersey. We can evaluate your Bergen County case regardless of location through:

Federal Court Authority: Our admission to U.S. District Court allows us to pursue cases in federal jurisdiction.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello is licensed in Texas and New York, providing broader legal reach.
Video Consultations: Bergen County families can meet with us remotely from the comfort of their home.
Travel Commitment: For depositions, key client meetings, or trials, our attorneys will travel to Bergen County as needed. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

To Other Victims of Hazing: You Are Not Alone. We Can Help.

We know there are more victims. Leonel Bermudez was not the only one hazed. Other pledges collapsed, were hog-tied, or endured the same waterboarding and physical abuse. If you are a victim or a witness and fear retribution, know that you have rights. Your courage can prevent others from suffering.

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

Call us. Let’s bring them all to justice.

Your Legal Emergency Lawyers™

We are Attorney 911, and we are ready to fight for you.
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com | attorney911.com