If you’re reading this, your family in Cape May County, New Jersey, may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college, build a community, and pursue their dreams. Instead, they were tortured, abused, and left with injuries that could haunt them for a lifetime. This isn’t the story you imagined for them, and the anger, fear, and confusion you’re feeling right now are completely justified. We understand what you’re going through. When parents in Cape May County or anywhere in New Jersey search for answers in the quiet of the night, we’re here to help them fight back.

We are Attorney 911, and we are not just talking about hazing; we are actively fighting it in court right now. Our firm, headquartered in Houston, Texas, is leading a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members for horrific hazing that hospitalized our client with kidney failure. This case is not an anomaly; it’s a stark warning about what can happen at institutions across our nation, including those your Cape May County children might attend. We are here to tell you that hazing is a legal emergency, and families in Cape May County, New Jersey, deserve aggressive, data-driven legal representation to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

The Landmark Case: Attorney 911 vs. Pi Kappa Phi & University of Houston (2025)

The case of Leonel Bermudez against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, the University of Houston, and numerous individuals is the very embodiment of what we stand for. This is not a theoretical battle; it is a live, ongoing fight in a Texas courtroom, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to victims of hazing. What happened to Leonel serves as a chilling example of the true face of hazing in modern academia and a powerful reminder of why we continue this fight, bringing the same fervor and dedication to families in Cape May County and beyond.

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

This case might have unfolded in Houston, but the same patterns of abuse, the same systemic failures, and the same national fraternities that have chapters in New Jersey operate at universities near Cape May County. The negligence that allowed Leonel Bermudez to suffer could easily exist at institutions across New Jersey. We want every parent in Cape May County to understand that if their child faces such trauma, we will bring the same aggressive representation to their case that we are bringing to this landmark lawsuit in Texas.

The Plaintiff: Leonel Bermudez

Leonel Bermudez, a young man who was not even officially enrolled at the University of Houston, but was a “ghost rush” planning to transfer there for the upcoming semester, accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on September 16, 2025. What followed were weeks of systematic abuse, torture, and hazing that led to his hospitalization for three nights and four days. He was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis—a life-threatening breakdown of muscle tissue—and acute kidney failure. They did this to someone who wasn’t even their student yet. This is the tragic reality of hazing today.

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, recounted the terrifying aftermath in an interview with 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.”

Attorney Lupe Pena, our associate attorney, articulated our firm’s broader mission: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” These words resonate deeply with our commitment to stopping hazing, not just for one victim, but for all students who might otherwise suffer in silence.

The Defendants and Damages Sought: $10 Million and Counting

Our $10 million lawsuit, filed in Harris County Civil District Court on November 21, 2025, names a comprehensive list of defendants, reflecting our strategy of holding every responsible party accountable:

Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter): The local perpetrators.
Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters: The national body that knew or should have known and failed to act.
Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation: The entity responsible for the property where much of the hazing took place.
University of Houston: The institution that owned the fraternity house and failed to protect its students.
UH Board of Regents: The governing body overseeing the university, also complicit in institutional failures.
Fraternity President, Pledgemaster, and 13 individual fraternity members: Specific individuals who directly participated in and organized the hazing. This includes a former member and his spouse, as portions of the hazing occurred at their private residence.

This extensive list demonstrates our belief that hazing is not just the act of a few bad apples, but rather a catastrophic failure of oversight, accountability, and leadership at multiple levels—from the individuals involved to the national organizations and the universities themselves.

The Hazing Activities Exposed in Our Lawsuit: Torture, Not Tradition

Leonel’s ordeal lasted weeks and involved a litany of abuses that defy any definition of harmless college fun:

Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: Pledges were subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” sprayed in the face while performing calisthenics, and threatened with repeat waterboarding. This is a form of torture, unacceptable in any context.
Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Pledges, including Leonel, were compelled to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and even peppercorns until they vomited. Then, they were forced to continue running sprints in physical distress, sometimes lying in their own vomit-soaked grass.
Extreme Physical Punishment: This included 100+ pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-your-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. Pledges were forced to recite the fraternity creed under duress, continuing until they could no longer stand. One pledge even lost consciousness during these grueling workouts on October 15 but was revived by other pledges rather than receiving medical attention. The Houston Chronicle also reported instances of “being struck with wooden paddles.”
Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was made to carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature at all times. Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. Pledges were forced to strip to their underwear in cold weather and threatened with expulsion for non-compliance.
Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to drive fraternity members during early morning hours contributed to severe exhaustion.

The Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure

The culmination of this abuse was Leonel’s critical medical condition. He was hospitalized for three nights and four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. Rhabdomyolysis, the breakdown of muscle tissue, releases damaging proteins into the bloodstream that can overwhelm the kidneys. Classic symptoms, like the brown urine Leonel passed, are clear indicators of this dangerous condition. This is the same life-threatening medical condition that Ralph Manginello has previously litigated and understands deeply. Leonel now faces ongoing medical monitoring and the potential for permanent kidney damage, a consequence no student should ever endure for wanting to join a fraternity.

Institutional Responses on the Record: Admissions of Guilt

The public statements from both the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters following the incident confirm a disturbing level of awareness and an attempt to control the narrative. The University of Houston spokesperson acknowledged that “The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards,” even hinting at “potential criminal charges.” Pi Kappa Phi National, in their own statement, confirmed the closure of their Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025—a full week before our $10 million lawsuit was filed. This pre-emptive closure is a clear admission of guilt, a move to distance themselves from a problem they knew existed, as KHOU 11 reported allegations that the national organization failed to enforce anti-hazing rules “despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'” Their statement also declared, “we look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time,” a detail that underscores the fraternity’s lack of remorse and their continued prioritization of their organizational presence over student safety.

Why This Case Matters to Cape May County Families

The Bermudez case is more than a legal proceeding; it’s a profound warning and a call to action for families across the nation, especially those in communities like Cape May County, New Jersey.

Proof That “Tradition” Is Torture: These aren’t harmless rites of passage. Leonel’s experience—waterboarding, forced eating, extreme exertion—illustrates that what might be dismissed as “tradition” is, in fact, systematic abuse. The very same “traditions” can occur at universities and colleges near Cape May County, whether they are major institutions like Rutgers University, Rowan University, or Stockton University, or smaller regional colleges where Greek life thrives.
Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where the hazing occurred, highlighting a direct institutional responsibility. Universities and colleges near Cape May County share a similar duty to protect students. When they fail to act, they are just as liable. Whether your child attends a New Jersey Public Research University or a private liberal arts college, these institutions have the power to stop hazing and the responsibility to exercise that power.
National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi National promptly shut down the chapter, demonstrating their understanding of the severity of the allegations. National fraternities and sororities, many of which have chapters across New Jersey, are well aware of the risks and histories of hazing. When these national bodies operate near Cape May County, they carry the same responsibility, and we will hold them to it.
Victims Are Afraid: Leonel Bermudez remains “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution,” a fear common among hazing victims. Students in Cape May County who have been hazed face similar intimidation. Our firm is dedicated to protecting our clients, ensuring they can seek justice without fear.
One Brave Victim Can Protect Cape May County Students: As Lupe Pena emphasized, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do.” Leonel’s courage in coming forward can pave the way for safer campuses nationwide. Your Cape May County case could save lives and prevent future tragedies.
$10 Million Sends a Message: The substantial damages sought in this lawsuit are intended to send an unequivocal message that torture and abuse will not be tolerated. Cape May County families, through legal action, can send a similar, powerful message to fraternities, universities, and national organizations that student safety must be their utmost priority.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

Hazing is often dismissed as harmless pranks or misunderstood as a necessary evil for “team building” or “brotherhood.” But the reality, as evidenced by Leonel Bermudez’s case, is far more sinister. It is a systematic process of degradation, abuse, and often, torture, designed to assert dominance and break down individuals. This is not about friendly competition; it’s about power, control, and inflicting harm. It’s often violent, emotionally scarring, and can have lifelong consequences.

Types of Hazing Incidents We See (and Fight)

Based on the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case and countless other incidents across the country, hazing manifests in many forms:

Physical Abuse: This includes beatings, paddling with wooden objects, branding, forced calisthenics to the point of collapse (like Leonel’s 500 squats), sleep deprivation, physical restraints like hog-tying, and even simulated waterboarding. This type of hazing aims to inflict pain, exhaustion, and subservience.
Forced Consumption: This category often involves alcohol (binge drinking, chugging, forced intoxication), but also extends to immense quantities of food until vomiting, or even non-food substances. These actions carry severe risks of alcohol poisoning, choking, aspiration, and organ damage, as seen in Leonel’s case of forced eating until vomiting.
Psychological Torture & Humiliation: This targets a victim’s mental and emotional well-being through verbal abuse, public degradation, forced nudity, carrying sexually explicit or demeaning objects, social isolation, and threats. Leonel’s fanny pack and the hog-tying incident illustrate this deeply damaging aspect of hazing.
Exposure: Leaving individuals in extreme weather conditions (cold or heat exposure), confining them in small spaces, or subjecting them to unsanitary environments are common tactics. Leonel was forced to strip in cold weather and was sprayed with a hose.
Servitude & Demeaning Tasks: Being forced to perform chores, errands, driving tasks (often late at night, leading to sleep deprivation), or acting as personal servants for older members.

Medical Consequences of Hazing: The physical and psychological toll of hazing is devastating:

Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure: Directly seen in Leonel Bermudez’s case, this can lead to permanent organ damage and death.
Alcohol Poisoning: A leading cause of hazing deaths, resulting from forced binge drinking, as seen in the tragic deaths of Andrew Coffey, Stone Foltz, and Max Gruver.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From falls, blows to the head, or severe concussions due to physical abuse.
Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From exposure to extreme temperatures.
Cardiac Arrest: Resulting from extreme physical exertion or underlying medical conditions exacerbated by hazing.
PTSD, Anxiety, Depression: Long-term psychological trauma requiring extensive therapy. The fear of retribution, as Leonel experiences, is a testament to this emotional damage.
Sexual Assault: A grim reality in some hazing rituals, leading to profound and lasting psychological and physical trauma.
Death: The ultimate consequence, a tragic outcome that has claimed the lives of far too many students.

The Institutional Failure: Why Hazing Persists

Despite widespread knowledge of its dangers, hazing continues because institutions—universities and national Greek organizations—often fail to implement and enforce effective preventative measures. They talk about “values” and “well-being” but frequently prioritize reputation and tradition over the lives of their students. It is only when tragedy strikes, when a student is hospitalized or dies, that they react, often with belated condemnations and hasty chapter closures. This reactive approach is a testament to their deliberate indifference, leaving communities like Cape May County vulnerable to repeated incidents.

Who Is Responsible: Every Entity and Individual Who Enabled the Abuse

One of the cornerstones of our aggressive hazing litigation strategy is to identify and pursue every single party responsible for a victim’s suffering. Hazing is rarely an isolated act; it is typically a culmination of individual choices, peer pressure, and glaring institutional failures. In the Bermudez case, as in other hazing lawsuits we pursue, our aim is to leave no stone unturned, ensuring that accountability reaches all the way to the top.

The Litany of Liable Parties:

Local Fraternity or Sorority Chapter: These are the direct orchestrators and participants in the hazing activities. They create the environment, design the rituals, and enforce compliance. Their actions form the immediate cause of injury.
Chapter Officers (e.g., President, Pledgemaster, Risk Manager): Individuals in leadership roles bear a heightened responsibility. They approve activities, direct members, and are often aware of (if not actively participating in) the hazing. In the Bermudez case, the Chapter President and Pledgemaster are explicitly named as defendants, demonstrating our focus on individual culpability.
Individual Members: Every member who actively participates in, encourages, or passively allows hazing to occur may be held personally liable. This includes members who witnessed abuse and failed to intervene or report it. The $6.5 million judgment against a single chapter president in the Stone Foltz case underscores this personal exposure.
Former Members: Even alumni can be held responsible, especially if the hazing activities occurred on their property or if they actively facilitated the abuse. In Bermudez, a former member and his spouse are defendants because their private residence was used for hazing sessions.
National Fraternity or Sorority Organization: These are often the deepest pockets and bear significant responsibility. They have national policies against hazing, but too often fail to enforce them or provide adequate oversight over their local chapters. Our lawsuit alleges that Pi Kappa Phi National failed to act despite knowledge of a “hazing crisis” and their past experience with the death of Andrew Coffey in 2017. Their failure to learn from prior tragedies makes them directly complicit. National organizations with chapters near Cape May County should be on notice that we track their history of compliance and enforcement.
Universities and Colleges: Institutions of higher education have a profound duty to protect their students. This duty extends to the oversight of recognized student organizations like fraternities and sororities. The University of Houston is a defendant because it owned the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place, and it had prior knowledge of hazing incidents on its campus (e.g., the 2017 Pi Kappa Alpha incident). Universities near Cape May County, such as Stockton University, Rowan University, and Rutgers University, must be vigilant in their oversight. Their failure to supervise Greek life, to actively investigate complaints, or to provide a safe campus environment constitutes negligence.
Housing Corporations: Many fraternities operate through separate housing corporations that own or manage the chapter property. These entities have a responsibility to ensure that the premises are safe and not used for illegal or dangerous activities. The Beta Nu Housing Corporation is a defendant in Leonel’s case.
Insurance Carriers: Ultimately, the funds to compensate victims often come from various insurance policies—liability insurance held by national organizations, universities, and housing corporations, as well as homeowner’s or renter’s policies of individual members. As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena bring invaluable insider knowledge, allowing us to navigate these complex insurance landscapes and maximize recovery for our clients.

The “Deep Pockets” Argument: Targeting Those Who Can Pay

While individual perpetrators bear moral and often criminal responsibility, true financial accountability often lies with the larger, well-funded entities. National fraternities typically have substantial assets, endowments, and comprehensive liability insurance policies. Universities, with their massive endowments and institutional insurance, also represent significant financial resources. Our strategy is to ensure that victims in Cape May County and elsewhere are compensated not just by the individuals who directly inflicted harm, but by the powerful organizations that enabled the culture of hazing through their negligence and inaction. We seek to dismantle the notion that these powerful entities can escape liability simply by “suspending” or “closing” a chapter after the damage is done.

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

For families in Cape May County grappling with the aftermath of hazing, understanding the potential for meaningful legal recovery is crucial. Hazing litigation is designed not only to compensate victims for their immense suffering but also to send an undeniable message to fraternities, universities, and national organizations that these abhorrent practices will carry a steep price. The multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in hazing cases across the nation serve as powerful precedents, demonstrating that justice, both emotional and financial, is achievable.

Landmark Verdicts & Settlements: Justice for Hazing Victims

These cases represent not just dollar figures, but the culmination of immense suffering and tireless legal battles by courageous families. The same legal strategies and dedication apply to victims in Cape May County who seek to hold their institutions accountable.

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

Total: $10.1 Million+

What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, a pledge at Pi Kappa Alpha, was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” initiation event. He was found unresponsive the next morning and died from severe alcohol poisoning.
The Outcome: The Foltz family received nearly $2.9 million from Bowling Green State University, marking the largest hazing payout from a public university in Ohio history. An additional $7.2 million came from settlements with Pi Kappa Alpha and various individuals. In a landmark ruling in December 2024, Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, was ordered to pay $6.5 million in personal liability, demonstrating that individuals directly involved cannot hide behind their organization’s corporate veil. Multiple criminal convictions also resulted from the incident.
Relevance to Cape May County: This case sets a benchmark for the significant financial repercussions of hazing. Our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is directly aligned with such precedents. It shows universities’ and fraternities’ substantial payouts, and critically, how individual perpetrators can be held personally responsible.

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

Total: $6.1 Million Jury Verdict

What Happened: In September 2017, Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman and pledge at Phi Delta Theta, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a forced drinking ritual called “Bible Study.” Pledges were forced to chug alcohol for incorrect answers to trivia. His blood alcohol content was a staggering 0.495.
The Outcome: A jury awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million, sending a clear message about jury outrage over such egregious conduct. The incident also led to criminal convictions, including negligent homicide, and spurred the passage of the Max Gruver Act, a law that made hazing a felony in Louisiana.
Relevance to Cape May County: This verdict underscores the power of a jury to deliver justice and substantial compensation. It also highlights how these cases can lead to vital legislative change, providing greater protections for students at institutions throughout New Jersey.

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

Total: $110+ Million (Multiple Settlements)

What Happened: In February 2017, pledge Timothy Piazza was forced to consume 18 alcoholic drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi event. He suffered multiple falls, including down a flight of stairs, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited 12 hours to call 911, and security cameras captured their horrific inaction. He died two days later.
The Outcome: The Piazza family secured confidential settlements estimated to exceed $110 million from various defendants. The case also led to numerous criminal charges and convictions, and the passage of the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania, one of the nation’s toughest anti-hazing statutes.
Relevance to Cape May County: While a death case, Piazza demonstrates the immense financial and legal consequences when hazing is coupled with institutional negligence and clear evidence of egregious conduct. It proves that when cases are meticulously built and evidence is compelling, the settlements can be colossal, holding powerful institutions fully accountable.

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

Same Fraternity as Our Landmark Case

What Happened: In November 2017, Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night.”
The Outcome: Nine fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the FSU chapter was permanently closed. The Coffey family reached a private settlement.
Relevance to Cape May County: This case is particularly crucial as it involves Pi Kappa Phi—the same national organization involved in our Leonel Bermudez lawsuit. It proves that Pi Kappa Phi National had actual notice of the deadly consequences of their hazing culture as far back as 2017. Their failure to prevent a similar-but-survived incident with Leonel Bermudez in 2025 demonstrates a horrifying pattern of negligence and provides strong support for our claims of deliberate indifference and gross negligence against the national fraternity. Any Pi Kappa Phi chapter operating near Cape May County should be on notice that their national organization has a documented history of deadly hazing.

Lessons for Cape May County Families: Your Case Can Win Big

These precedent cases offer several critical takeaways for hazing victims and their families in Cape May County:

Multi-Million Dollar Recovery Is Possible: Even for serious injuries that do not result in death, a well-litigated hazing case can yield significant compensation. Leonel Bermudez’s $10 million lawsuit, despite his survival, reflects the severity of his injuries and the egregiousness of the conduct.
Institutional Accountability Sells: Juries and courts are increasingly willing to hold not just individuals, but also national organizations and universities, financially responsible. This is vital for victims attending institutions like Rutgers, Rowan, or Stockton.
Hazing Conduct Matters: The more barbaric and intentional the hazing—like waterboarding, forced extreme exercise, or physical assault—the greater the potential for substantial punitive damages, which are designed to punish and deter.
Pattern Evidence Is Powerful: When a national organization, like Pi Kappa Phi, has a history of hazing incidents (especially deadly ones), it strengthens claims of actual knowledge and deliberate indifference. Similarly, a university with prior hazing cases on its campus (like UH) can be shown to have failed in its duty of care.
Legislative Impact: Beyond financial compensation, these cases often spark legislative change, creating stronger anti-hazing laws and greater protections for students. Your case could contribute to making New Jersey’s campuses safer.

The message is clear: when a student is harmed by hazing, justice demands accountability, and that accountability often comes with a multi-million dollar price tag. We are prepared to fight for that justice for families in Cape May County.

New Jersey’s Hazing Laws: Your Legal Shield

For families in Cape May County grappling with the trauma of hazing, understanding the legal landscape in New Jersey is paramount. While our firm is based in Texas, we navigate hazing laws across the nation using our federal court authority and in-depth understanding of state-specific statutes. New Jersey, like many states, has robust anti-hazing laws designed to protect students and hold perpetrators accountable.

Kevin’s Law: New Jersey’s Anti-Hazing Statute

New Jersey’s anti-hazing law, often referred to as “Kevin’s Law,” provides a legal framework for prosecuting hazing incidents and defining the scope of prohibited conduct. This law, codified in N.J.S.A. 2C:40-10, establishes the criminal penalties for hazing and provides a foundation for civil claims.

Definition of Hazing (N.J.S.A. 2C:40-10a):

“A person is guilty of hazing, a disorderly persons offense, if, in connection with initiation of applicants to or members of a student or fraternal organization, or any organization of which a majority of the members are students at an educational institution, he knowingly or recklessly organizes, promotes, facilitates, or engages in any conduct, other than competitive athletic events, which places or may place another person in danger of bodily injury.”

Key Elements of New Jersey’s Definition that Apply to Cape May County:

“Knowingly or recklessly organizes, promotes, facilitates, or engages in any conduct”: This is a broad scope, capturing not only those who directly inflict harm but also those who enable it. This means local chapter officers, individual members, and potentially even national organization representatives could be held accountable.
“Places or may place another person in danger of bodily injury”: This is a critical distinction. Actual injury doesn’t have to occur for hazing to be present; merely placing someone “in danger” is sufficient. The acts of waterboarding, forced eating, and extreme physical exertion in the Bermudez case clearly meet this criterion and go far beyond it.
“In connection with initiation of applicants to or members of a student or fraternal organization”: This directly covers fraternities, sororities, and other student groups at institutions near Cape May County, such as Stockton University in Galloway, Rowan University in Glassboro, or any of the state’s public or private colleges.

Criminal Penalties (N.J.S.A. 2C:40-10b):

“If the hazing results in serious bodily injury to the person hazed, the person who committed the hazing is guilty of a crime of the fourth degree.”

Disorderly Persons Offense: For general hazing that places someone in danger of bodily injury, it’s equivalent to a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Crime of the Fourth Degree (Felony): If hazing results in “serious bodily injury,” it becomes a felony, punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Under New Jersey law, “serious bodily injury” means bodily injury which creates a substantial risk of death or which causes serious permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ. Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure would undoubtedly qualify as serious bodily injury under this statute.

Civil Liability in New Jersey: Beyond the Criminal Statute

While Kevin’s Law provides for criminal prosecution, hazing victims in Cape May County can also pursue a civil lawsuit to recover financial compensation for their injuries and suffering. Civil liability often casts a wider net, allowing us to hold even more parties accountable.

Negligence Claims: This is the most common basis for hazing lawsuits in New Jersey. We would argue that the fraternity, national organization, and university owed a duty of care to the student, breached that duty by allowing or facilitating hazing, and that this breach directly caused the student’s injuries and damages. This applies across New Jersey, from Rutgers campuses to smaller colleges.
Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university or a housing corporation (as in the Bermudez case with the University of Houston), these entities have a responsibility to maintain a safe environment. Their failure to do so can lead to premises liability claims. For Cape May County students attending institutions where such properties exist, this is a critical avenue for legal action.
Negligent Supervision: This claim targets the failure of national organizations and universities to adequately supervise their chapters and Greek life activities. Despite having anti-hazing policies, if they don’t actively enforce them, investigate complaints, or train their members effectively, they can be found negligent.
Assault and Battery: Individual fraternity members who physically harm a pledge can be sued directly for intentional torts like assault and battery, regardless of whether criminal charges are filed. This holds the direct aggressors accountable.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): The extreme and outrageous nature of hazing, especially acts like waterboarding, forced humiliation, and psychological torment, can lead to severe emotional distress, supporting an IIED claim.
Vicarious Liability: National organizations and universities may be held vicariously liable for the actions of their local chapters or employees if those actions fall within the scope of their direct or implied authority.

“Consent is NOT a Defense” in New Jersey, too.

While New Jersey’s statute doesn’t explicitly state “consent is not a defense” as clearly as Texas’s law (which we quote in our Bermudez case), legal precedent and the very nature of hazing mean that genuine consent is effectively nullified. Hazing inherently involves coercion, manipulation, and power imbalances. Students “agree” to participate under immense social pressure, fear of ostracism, or threats—circumstances that negate true, free consent. In a civil lawsuit, we would vigorously argue that a victim cannot meaningfully consent to being physically assaulted, emotionally tortured, or placed in danger of serious bodily injury or death. This means that any defense claiming the victim “voluntarily participated” holds little legal weight.

Federal Civil Rights Claims: Nationwide Reach

Beyond state-specific laws, our federal court authority allows us to pursue federal civil rights claims, such as those related to Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination including sexual harassment and assault in education. If hazing involves sexual misconduct or a university’s deliberate indifference to it, a Title IX claim can be a powerful tool for justice, regardless of where the hazing occurred, including Cape May County.

The Statute of Limitations: Your Window for Justice

Generally, in New Jersey, personal injury and wrongful death claims have a two-year statute of limitations. This means a lawsuit must typically be filed within two years from the date of the injury or death. While there can be exceptions (such as for minors or delayed discovery of injury), this strict deadline underscores the urgency of seeking legal counsel immediately. For parents in Cape May County, delay can mean losing your right to pursue justice.

Why Attorney 911: Your Champion in the Fight Against Hazing

Choosing the right legal representation after a hazing incident is one of the most critical decisions a family in Cape May County, New Jersey, can make. This isn’t just about finding a lawyer; it’s about finding a champion who understands the unique brutality of hazing, the complexities of institutional liability, and how to aggressively pursue every entity responsible. We are Attorney 911, and our firm is specifically designed and uniquely qualified to be that champion for your family.

More Than Lawyers: Former Insiders Fighting for Victims

Our firm’s strength lies in the unparalleled experience of our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena. Both are not just skilled litigators; they are former insurance defense attorneys. This isn’t a mere detail; it’s a strategic advantage for every hazing victim we represent.

Ralph P. Manginello: Our managing partner, with over 25 years of courtroom experience, spent time defending insurance companies. He saw their playbook from the inside—how they value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize payouts. Now, he uses that intimate knowledge to dismantle their arguments and maximize recovery for our clients. His experience in multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation, including the BP Texas City explosion, proves his capacity to take on massive corporate defendants, a critical skill when facing national fraternities and large universities.
Lupe Eleno Pena: Our associate attorney (and yes, Lupe is male), also honed his skills at a national insurance defense firm, Litchfield Cavo LLP. He defended corporations against personal injury, construction, and product liability claims. This means he understands the internal workings, the valuation metrics, and the delay tactics employed by those who will be defending hazing lawsuits. He knows how they try to lowball victims and how to counter every move they make.

Together, Ralph and Lupe form an “insurance counter-intelligence system.” They know the defense strategies before they’re even deployed, giving our clients in Cape May County an unfair advantage against well-resourced opponents.

Federal Court Authority & Dual-State Bar Admissions: Nationwide Reach

Hazing doesn’t respect state lines, and neither do we. While our headquarters are in Houston, our capabilities extend nationwide, directly benefiting victims in Cape May County:

Federal Court Admissions: Both Ralph and Lupe are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and Ralph has appellate experience in the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals. This federal authority means we are not confined to state courts alone. We can pursue hazing cases in federal jurisdiction, an invaluable asset when dealing with national fraternities and multi-state university systems that may have a presence near Cape May County.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph is licensed in both Texas and New York. This dual licensure provides a significant strategic advantage, particularly in cases involving national fraternities—many of which are headquartered or have substantial operations in states like New York. This allows us to navigate complex interstate litigation with greater ease and leverage. We will travel to Cape May County, New Jersey, or wherever justice demands, to aggressively litigate your case.

Hazing-Specific Expertise: Actively Fighting, Not Just Talking

Our firm isn’t just generally experienced; we have a focused, current, and aggressive stance on hazing litigation:

Currently Litigating a $10M Hazing Lawsuit: The Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case is our live, active battle. This isn’t theoretical expertise; it’s real-time frontline experience against a national fraternity and a major university. When you hire us for your Cape May County case, you’re partnering with attorneys who are immersed in this fight every single day.
Rhabdomyolysis Expertise: Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases, making our firm uniquely equipped to handle the complex medical and legal aspects of injuries like Leonel Bermudez’s acute kidney failure.
Wrongful Death Experience: Both Ralph and Lupe have extensive experience in wrongful death cases, a critically important area given the tragic outcomes of many hazing incidents. This means we understand how to pursue maximum compensation for the immense loss suffered by families in Cape May County.
Dram Shop Expertise: Lupe Pena’s experience with dram shop liability—holding establishments accountable for over-serving alcohol—is directly applicable to hazing cases involving forced alcohol consumption, a common and deadly hazing ritual.

Empathetic Approach with Aggressive Advocacy for Cape May County Families

We understand that discussing hazing can be incredibly difficult for victims and their families. Our approach balances warm, compassionate support with relentless legal aggression:

We Come to You (Virtually or Physically): Distance is no barrier to justice. We offer remote video consultations for Cape May County families, allowing you to connect with us from the comfort and privacy of your home. And for key legal proceedings—depositions, client meetings, or trials—we are prepared to travel to Cape May County, New Jersey, as needed.
Se Habla Español: Lupe Pena is fluent in Spanish, and our staff is bilingual. This ensures that Hispanic families in Cape May County affected by hazing receive comprehensive legal services without language barriers, from initial consultation to courtroom representation.
Contingency Fees: No Upfront Cost: We know that the cost of legal action can be a deterrent, especially when you’re facing medical bills and emotional distress. That’s why we take hazing cases on contingency. Cape May County families pay us $0 upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This aligns our interests completely with yours and ensures that powerful institutions cannot outspend you in the pursuit of justice.
“You Are Family to Them”: Our client testimonials consistently highlight our commitment to treating clients like family. Whether you’re in Cape May County or Houston, you will receive personalized attention, clear communication, and unwavering support. We don’t just see cases; we see individuals and families who deserve justice.

The Ralph Manginello Difference: A Father’s Perspective

Ralph is a father of three children. This personal connection drives his passion for fighting against hazing. He understands firsthand the trust parents place in educational institutions and the devastation when that trust is betrayed. He is not just a lawyer; he is a parent fighting to protect other parents’ children, including those in Cape May County. This deep personal investment fuels his aggressive advocacy and his determination to hold institutions accountable.

In conclusion, choosing Attorney 911 means choosing a firm that possesses unique insider knowledge, nationwide legal authority, specialized hazing expertise, and an unwavering commitment to victims. We are ready to bring our fight to Cape May County, New Jersey, ensuring that your child’s trauma leads to tangible change and just compensation.

What To Do Right Now: Your Action Plan After Hazing

The moments immediately following a hazing incident are critical. For families in Cape May County, New Jersey, who are reeling from shock and confusion, taking the right steps can preserve crucial evidence and significantly strengthen a future legal claim. Hazing victims and their loved ones often feel isolated and intimidated, but you are not alone, and you have rights. Here’s an actionable, step-by-step guide on what you should do immediately to protect yourself and your legal case.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Seek Immediate Medical Attention

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

Remove Your Child from the Dangerous Environment: If they are still in a situation where they feel unsafe or coerced, help them leave immediately. This might involve direct intervention or coordinating with university authorities or law enforcement, if necessary.
Seek Medical Help Without Delay: Even if injuries seem minor or your child insists they are “fine,” get them to a doctor, urgent care, or emergency room. Adrenaline often masks pain, and serious internal injuries, like rhabdomyolysis, may not be immediately apparent.
- Document Everything Medically: Ensure all symptoms, injuries, and the alleged cause (hazing) are clearly documented in medical records. Tell doctors exactly what happened. Medical records are foundational to any personal injury claim. For Cape May County residents, this means utilizing local medical facilities, whether Cape Regional Medical Center or other nearby healthcare providers.
Seek Mental Health Support: Hazing inflicts profound psychological trauma. Connect your child with a therapist, counselor, or mental health professional specializing in trauma. Therapy records will be vital evidence of emotional and psychological damages, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence Immediately

Evidence can disappear quickly. The faster you act, the stronger your case will be. This requires a comprehensive approach to documentation.

Photos and Videos:
- Injuries: Take clear, high-resolution photos and videos of all injuries, bruises, cuts, burns, or any physical signs of hazing. Photograph injuries at different stages of healing.
- Location: If safe to do so, photograph or video relevant locations: the fraternity house, specific rooms, outdoor areas, or any property where hazing occurred.
- Objects: Document any objects used in the hazing (e.g., paddles, alcohol containers, fanny packs).
Digital Communications:
- Texts, GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, Facebook Messenger, Emails: Screenshot EVERYTHING. These platforms are often used to coordinate hazing, give instructions, or threaten pledges. Do not delete them.
- Social Media Posts: Screenshot any relevant posts from fraternity members, the chapter, or even your child’s own posts that might shed light on the hazing.
Witness Information:
- Names and Contact Info: Gather the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of other pledges, active members, or anyone who witnessed the hazing or has knowledge of it. Other pledges may be too afraid to come forward initially, but their information can still be vital.
Documents:
- Pledge Manuals, Schedules, “Rules”: Any documents provided by the fraternity or sorority detailing expectations, schedules, or “traditions.”
- Financial Records: Keep track of all medical bills, therapy costs, expenses related to missed school or work, and any fees or dues paid to the organization.
- Academic Records: Document any impact on grades, attendance, or enrollment.

Step 3: Crucial “Do Not’s” to Protect Your Case

In the emotional turmoil after a hazing incident, it’s easy to make mistakes that can jeopardize your legal rights.

DO NOT Delete ANYTHING: Deleting messages, photos, or posts can be seen as destruction of evidence. Even if your child feels ashamed, preserving these records is critical.
DO NOT Talk to Fraternity/Sorority Leadership: They are not your friends. They will try to control the narrative, minimize the incident, or even coerce your child into silence. Any statements made without legal counsel can be used against your family.
DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, national organization, or university without first consulting with an attorney. You could inadvertently waive your legal rights.
DO NOT Post on Social Media: Anything posted about the incident, or even seemingly innocent photos of your child appearing “fine,” can be used by the defense to argue against the severity of their injuries or distress.
DO NOT Give Statements to University Administration Alone: University administrators, while seemingly helpful, ultimately prioritize the institution’s reputation and legal liability. Any statements made without proper legal guidance may harm your case.
DO NOT Admit Fault or Apologize: Your child is the victim. They did not consent to being abused. In hazing, consent is not a legal defense.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Hazing Litigation Attorney Immediately

This is perhaps the most important instruction. The clock starts ticking from the moment the incident occurs.

Call Us Immediately: The two-year statute of limitations in New Jersey for personal injury and wrongful death claims means time is of the essence. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and defendants begin to construct their defenses.
Free Consultation: We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your specific situation. This allows us to assess the viability of your case, explain your legal options, and begin the process of building a strong claim. You have nothing to lose by calling.
Distance is Not a Barrier: Even though our primary offices are in Texas, our federal court authority and willingness to travel mean we can effectively represent Cape May County families. We offer convenient video consultations for remote discussions, and for critical matters like depositions or trial, we will come to you in New Jersey.

Step 5: Follow Your Attorney’s Guidance

Once you retain our firm, we will guide you through every step of the legal process.

Be Honest and Thorough: Provide us with all the information, even details that may seem embarrassing or insignificant. Complete honesty is crucial for us to build the strongest possible case.
Cooperate with Investigations: We may engage private investigators, medical experts, or Greek life culture experts to bolster your claim. Your cooperation with their efforts is essential.
Focus on Healing: Let us handle the legal complexities. Your primary focus should be on your child’s physical and emotional recovery.

By following these steps, Cape May County families can effectively navigate the immediate aftermath of a hazing incident and lay a strong foundation for a successful legal claim, holding those responsible accountable and paving the way for a safer future for all students.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline for Hazing Victims in Cape May County

The nightmare of hazing can leave families in Cape May County feeling helpless, angry, and unsure of where to turn. But you don’t have to face this alone. We are Attorney 911, and we are your legal emergency hotline—a beacon of hope and a force for justice for hazing victims and their families.

We are not just a law firm; we are relentless advocates, actively fighting the very battles you are up against. Our $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for the horrific hazing of Leonel Bermudez is proof of our commitment. We understand the unique challenges hazing presents, from the physical and psychological trauma to the institutional cover-ups and the desperate need for accountability.

Cape May County Families – Call Now for a Free, Confidential Consultation

The time to act is now. The longer you wait, the more evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and your legal rights can diminish. We are available 24/7 because we know legal emergencies don’t keep business hours.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

This isn’t just a phone number; it’s a direct line to experienced attorneys who are ready to listen, strategize, and fight for your child’s justice.

Email: ralph@atty911.com (You can also reach Ralph Manginello directly)
Website: attorney911.com

Our Commitment to Cape May County Families: No Upfront Costs

We believe that no family should be denied justice due to financial concerns, especially in the wake of such a traumatic event. That’s why we take all hazing cases on a contingency fee basis.

What does this mean for Cape May County families?

$0 Upfront: You pay absolutely nothing to hire us or to begin building your case.
We Don’t Get Paid Unless YOU Get Paid: Our fees are contingent on us winning your case, whether through a settlement or a jury verdict. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing for our legal services.
Aligned Interests: This ensures our goals are perfectly aligned with yours—to secure the maximum possible compensation for your family.

Distance is Not a Barrier to Justice for Cape May County Residents

While our main offices are in Houston, Texas, our legal reach extends far beyond state lines, covering victims throughout the United States, including Cape May County, New Jersey.

Remote Consultations: We can conduct initial consultations and ongoing discussions conveniently via phone or video conference, allowing you to connect with us from the comfort and privacy of your home or office in Egg Harbor Township, Wildwood, Ocean City, or anywhere else in Cape May County.
Federal Court Authority: Our attorneys are admitted to practice in U.S. District Courts, giving us the authority to pursue hazing cases in federal jurisdiction, which is often crucial when dealing with national fraternities and universities.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello’s licensure in both Texas and New York provides a strategic advantage when facing national fraternities or universities with operations across multiple states.
We Travel to You: For critical legal proceedings—such as depositions, important client meetings, or trial—our team is prepared to travel to Cape May County, New Jersey, or any other location where your case demands our physical presence. We ensure that your family receives personalized support and aggressive representation, regardless of geographic distance.

We Represent All Types of Hazing Victims in Cape May County

Hazing is not confined to fraternities or to a specific type of student. We are here to help any student in Cape May County or any family who has suffered due to hazing, including those in:

Fraternities and sororities at universities and colleges near Cape May County (e.g., Stockton University, Rowan University, Rutgers University campuses in South Jersey).
Sports teams in collegiate or high school settings.
Marching bands, clubs, and other student organizations.
ROTC programs and military academies.
Any group, formal or informal, that uses abuse as a twisted form of “initiation.”

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing: Your Voice Matters. Your Justice Awaits.

If you are another student who was part of the Pi Kappa Phi hazing at the University of Houston, or witnessed it, we know Leonel Bermudez was not alone. Another pledge lost consciousness during a workout, and countless others endured the systematic abuse. You have rights, and we can help you come forward safely. Lupe Pena’s words serve as our guiding principle: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” We urge you to call us. Let’s stand together to bring all responsible parties to justice.

Your legal emergency demands an immediate, aggressive, and professional response. For families in Cape May County and across New Jersey, Attorney 911 is ready to be that response.

Contact us today. Let us fight for the justice your family deserves.

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