If you’re reading this, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college. Instead, they were tortured. We’re here to help families in Hunterdon County fight back.

We understand the fear and anger that washes over you when you discover your child has been subjected to the brutal realities of hazing. In a place like Hunterdon County, New Jersey, where communities often pride themselves on strong family values and children are raised with care, the idea that a university or fraternity could allow such abuse to happen is unthinkable. Your children leave the familiar comfort of Hunterdon County, heading to colleges and universities across the state or beyond, trusting that these institutions will foster their growth, not endanger their lives. Yet, year after year, the headlines are filled with stories of young lives shattered, and sometimes lost, to the senseless violence of hazing.

We are Attorney 911, and we are legal emergency lawyers. We don’t just talk about hazing; we’re actively fighting it right now in court. Our firm, headquartered in Houston, Texas, has made hazing litigation a cornerstone of our practice, aggressively representing victims and their families wherever justice is needed, including Hunterdon County. We understand the unique cultural landscape of communities like Hunterdon County, where a strong sense of community and close-knit ties can make any betrayal of trust feel even more profound. When your child is harmed by an organization that promised them brotherhood or sisterhood, it’s a wound that affects the entire family, and often, the entire community.

We are dedicated to holding every responsible party accountable—from the individual students who perpetuate the abuse to the national fraternities and universities that allow it to fester. We offer a free consultation to all Hunterdon County families, and we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay us nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. Our goal is to ensure that no other family in Hunterdon County has to endure the pain of hazing, and we will relentlessly pursue justice for your child.

The Haunting Echoes in Hunterdon County: The $10 Million Fight You Need to Understand

The recent $10 million lawsuit we filed in Harris County Civil District Court against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members is not just another case; it is the battle cry for every family affected by hazing, including those right here in Hunterdon County. This case sends an unequivocal message: the time for silence and complicity is over. We are aggressive, thorough, data-driven, and relentless in pursuing accountability for hazing victims, and we bring this same fight to Hunterdon County.

Hunterdon County Families: This wasn’t some isolated incident in a distant city. This is what hazing looks like today. The same national fraternities that have chapters in New Jersey, or at universities where your children attend, are the same ones we are fighting. The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client also threaten your child. The same institutional negligence that allowed this to happen at the University of Houston can occur at institutions that serve students from Hunterdon County. We will fight for Hunterdon County families with the same aggression and dedication we are bringing to this active, ongoing case.

Media Coverage Amplifies Our Stand

Our landmark lawsuit made headlines instantly, demonstrating the gravity of the hazing crisis and our firm’s commitment to exposing it.

• ABC13 Houston reported on November 21, 2025, detailing the severe abuse: “Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges”
• KHOU 11 also covered it on November 21, 2025: “$10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations”
• Houston Chronicle provided its summary on November 22, 2025: “UH fraternity hazing lawsuit”
• Hoodline published a detailed account on November 22, 2025: “University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Face $10M Lawsuit Over Alleged Hazing and Abuse”
• Houston Public Media dug deeper on November 24, 2025: “University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing”

Perhaps most damning is the defendant’s own statement, published on November 21, 2025: “Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston”. They closed the chapter seven days before our lawsuit was filed, a clear acknowledgement of wrongdoing and an attempt to limit their liability.

Leonel Bermudez: A “Ghost Rush” Tortured Before He Even Enrolled

Our client, Leonel Bermudez, accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity at the University of Houston on September 16, 2025. What followed was an unimaginably cruel several weeks of systematic abuse, physical torture, and psychological torment. Leonel was not even officially enrolled at the University of Houston; he was a “ghost rush,” a prospective transfer student who planned to attend the university in the upcoming semester. They did this to someone who wasn’t even their student, highlighting the brutal indifference of the perpetrators and the organizations that allowed it.

The hazing culminated in an incident on November 3, 2025, that left Leonel hospitalized for three nights and four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. Imagine the terror of his mother when she saw her child passing brown urine, a clear sign of his muscles breaking down. Attorney Ralph Manginello recounted to 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 emphasized our firm’s 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.” We believe that justice for Leonel can serve as a shield for countless others.

A Timeline of Abuse and Recklessness

• September 16, 2025: Leonel Bermudez accepts a bid to Pi Kappa Phi.
• September 16 – November 3, 2025: Weeks of systematic hazing, abuse, and torture.
• October 13, 2025: Another pledge is hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.
• October 15, 2025: A pledge lost consciousness and collapsed during forced physical exertion, requiring others to elevate his legs.
• November 3, 2025: Leonel is forced into extreme physical punishment, including over 100 pushups, 500 squats, and other exercises like “suicides,” bear crawls, and wheelbarrows while reciting the fraternity creed. He collapses, unable to stand without help.
• November 4-5, 2025: Leonel’s condition rapidly deteriorates.
• November 6, 2025: His mother rushes him to the hospital, where he is diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after passing brown urine. Pi Kappa Phi National suspends the chapter.
• November 6-10, 2025: Leonel spends three nights and four days in the hospital, fighting potential permanent kidney damage.
• November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National officially closes the Beta Nu Chapter.
• November 21, 2025: Our $10 million lawsuit is filed.
• November 21-24, 2025: Major media outlets cover the story, our attorneys speak out.

The Horrific Reality of Modern Hazing

The hazing Leonel endured goes far beyond pranks or “boys being boys.” It was calculated cruelty designed to break him down physically and psychologically.

• Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” sprayed directly in his face during calisthenics. Houston Public Media rightly noted: “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.” This is a war crime when done to enemy combatants; it should have no place in a university setting.
• Forced Eating and Vomiting: Pledges were forced to consume massive amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited, then ordered to continue strenuous exercise while lying in their own vomit.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: This included forced exercises like 100+ pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and forced “two-mile warmups” and “100-yard crawls” – all continuing until their bodies broke down. The Houston Chronicle noted he was even “being struck with wooden paddles.”
• Psychological Torture and Humiliation: Leonel was forced to carry a fanny pack with sexually suggestive objects and strip to his underwear in cold weather. The incident where another pledge was hog-tied face-down with an object in his mouth for over an hour speaks to the sheer depravity involved.
• Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to drive members in the early morning hours contributed to profound exhaustion.

The Medical Aftermath: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

Leonel’s hospitalization was not an accident; it was a foreseeable consequence of extreme physical abuse.

• Rhabdomyolysis: This severe condition involves the rapid breakdown of muscle tissue, releasing damaging proteins into the bloodstream. This can lead to acute kidney failure, permanent kidney damage, and even death. The appearance of “brown urine” is a classic, alarming symptom.
• Acute Kidney Failure: His kidneys, overwhelmed by the toxic byproducts of muscle breakdown, began to fail. This is a life-threatening medical emergency. His “very high creatine kinase levels” confirmed the extensive muscle damage.
• Long-Term Impact: Leonel faces the ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage, requiring lifetime monitoring and potentially future medical interventions. This is the same medical condition Attorney Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in litigating, understanding the complexities of such injuries.

Institutional Responses: A Pattern of Minimization

The responses from both the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National reveal a disturbing pattern of damage control rather than genuine accountability.

• University of Houston: Their spokesperson stated to Houston Public Media that “The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards… any individual found responsible for hazing will face disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion and potential criminal charges.” While appearing firm, this statement arrived after the lawsuit was filed, and only after a student was severely injured. It acknowledges failure without truly owning responsibility.
• Pi Kappa Phi National: In their own online statement, they declared the Beta Nu Chapter “closed effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” They closed the chapter a full week before our lawsuit was made public. This is a clear tactic to preempt litigation and mitigate public outrage, not a proactive measure. Their statement even expressed: “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time,” showing a callous disregard for the victim’s suffering and a presumption that they can simply weather the storm and re-establish their presence. This same national organization has 150+ chapters across America, including those near Hunterdon County, and we know they are capable of deadly hazing.

Why This Case Resonates with Hunterdon County

1. Proof That “Tradition” is Torture: Hazing today is far more sinister than pranks. Leonel’s story is a stark warning that abuse is disguised as “tradition” in Greek life. This same brutal dynamic can exist at universities your children attend, whether they are down the road in New Jersey or across the country.
2. Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where much of this torture occurred. Universities near Hunterdon County, like Rutgers University in New Brunswick, Princeton University, Rowan University, or The College of New Jersey, have direct power over Greek life and immense liability when they fail to protect students.
3. National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi National’s immediate suspension and dissolution of the chapter proves they understood the severity. The same national organizations operate chapters at numerous New Jersey universities and are well aware of the hazing risks within their ranks.
4. Victims Are Afraid: Leonel’s fear of retribution for speaking out is a common, heartbreaking reality for hazing victims. This fear silences countless students. We provide a safe haven for victims in communities like Hunterdon County, protecting their identities and fighting for their justice.
5. One Brave Victim Can Protect Others: Just as Leonel’s story may help prevent future tragedies, every Hunterdon County family who stands up to hazing contributes to a safer environment for all students.
6. $10 Million Sends a Message: This substantial lawsuit sends an undeniable message to fraternities, universities, and their insurers: hazing carries a colossal price tag. Hunterdon County families deserve the same unwavering determination in seeking accountability for their loved ones.

It’s not “boys being boys.” It’s not “tradition.” It’s not “building brotherhood.” It is assault, battery, torture, reckless endangerment, and sometimes, manslaughter or murder. And Attorney 911 is fighting it.

What Hazing Truly Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes in Hunterdon County

When Hunterdon County parents envision hazing, they might recall scenes from movies or outdated notions of harmless pranks. This mental image is dangerously disconnected from the brutal reality of modern hazing. It’s not about silly rituals; it’s about systematic abuse, psychological manipulation, and often life-threatening violence that can devastate young lives and tear apart families in communities like Flemington, Clinton, or Lambertville.

Hazing has evolved into a sinister practice designed to strip away an individual’s dignity, break their spirit, and force conformity through fear. What happened to Leonel Bermudez is not unique; it is a shocking but accurate portrayal of the depths of cruelty that hazing can reach. And it’s happening at institutions across the nation, including those that students from Hunterdon County choose to attend.

The Reality of Modern Hazing: A Catalog of Cruelty

Based on our ongoing litigation and extensive experience with hazing cases, here’s what “hazing” really means today:

1. Physical Abuse and Extreme Exertion:

• Forced Calisthenics to Collapse: Leonel was made to perform 500 squats and 100+ pushups until he couldn’t stand, leading to muscle breakdown. Other pledges were forced into “high-volume suicides,” bear crawls, and wheelbarrows.
• Paddling and Beatings: The use of wooden paddles, as reported in the Houston Chronicle, is a barbaric form of assault designed to inflict pain and humiliation.
• Forced Exposure: Requiring pledges to strip to their underwear in cold weather or spraying them with a garden hose while minimally clothed is a form of torture that risks hypothermia and illness.
• Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to stay awake or perform tasks during early morning hours results in extreme exhaustion, impairing judgment and physical health.

2. Forced Consumption:

• Chugging and Binge Drinking: This is a leading cause of hazing deaths. Pledges are often coerced into consuming dangerous amounts of alcohol, leading to alcohol poisoning.
• Eating Until Vomiting: Leonel was forced to eat copious amounts of milk, hot dogs, and even peppercorns until he vomited, then made to continue physical activities in his own bodily fluids. This is not just disgusting; it’s a profound violation of dignity and a health risk.
• Non-Food Substances: In other documented cases, pledges have been forced to consume urine, animal feces, or other vile substances.

3. Psychological Torture and Humiliation:

• Degradation Rituals: Leonel’s forced carrying of a fanny pack with sexually suggestive objects is a prime example of a ritual designed to humiliate and degrade.
• Hog-Tying and Confinement: The incident where another pledge was hog-tied with an object in his mouth for over an hour demonstrates extreme physical and psychological restraint, bordering on kidnapping and torture.
• Verbal Abuse and Threats: Constant threats of physical punishment or expulsion create an environment of terror and compliance, eroding self-worth.
• Isolation and Control: Limiting communication with the outside world, enforcing strict rules, and isolating pledges from support networks are hallmarks of cult-like manipulation.

4. Sexual Hazing:

• While not explicitly detailed as physical assault in Leonel’s case, the “objects of a sexual nature” and forced nudity are deeply disturbing. Cases nationwide frequently involve forced sexual acts, sexual assault, and coercion into explicit behaviors, inflicting profound and lasting trauma.

The Hidden Impact: Physiological and Psychological Trauma

The consequences of hazing extend far beyond the immediate pain. For students from Hunterdon County, these experiences can lead to:

• Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure: As seen in Leonel’s case, extreme physical exertion can break down muscle tissue, leading to life-threatening kidney damage.
• Alcohol Poisoning: The most common cause of hazing deaths.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From falls, beatings, or intentional hitting.
• Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From forced exposure in extreme weather.
• PTSD, Anxiety, Depression: The psychological scars of hazing can be as debilitating as physical injuries, leading to long-term mental health struggles, academic decline, and social isolation. Victims may exhibit symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety attacks, panic attacks, and fear of social situations. Leonel’s fear of retribution speaks volumes to the ongoing psychological impact.
• Suicidal Ideation: The shame, trauma, and hopelessness inflicted by hazing can push victims to the brink.

Who is Vulnerable?

It’s not just fraternities and sororities. Hazing is rampant across various student organizations:

• Sports teams in NCAA Division I, II, or III programs
• Marching bands and performing arts groups
• ROTC and military organizations
• Clubs and academic societies

The Betrayal of Trust for Hunterdon County Families

Parents in Hunterdon County send their children to college expecting them to thrive, grow, and build character. They anticipate intellectual challenges and personal development, not physical or psychological torture. The institutions that market themselves as safe havens, rich with character-building opportunities, often turn a blind eye or actively enable these dangerous practices. This betrayal of trust is a fundamental component of our legal strategy. We believe that universities and national organizations have a non-delegable duty to protect students from the foreseeable harm of hazing, and when they fail, they must be held accountable.

Who Is Responsible? Holding Every Perpetrator Accountable, Even from Hunterdon County

When your child from Hunterdon County is harmed by hazing, the question of “who is responsible?” becomes paramount. Unfortunately, many universities and national organizations attempt to deflect blame onto individual students, claiming these are isolated incidents of “peer pressure” rather than systemic failures. We at Attorney 911 firmly reject this narrative. Our comprehensive, data-driven approach to hazing litigation ensures that every entity, from the individual participant to the institution at the highest level, is held accountable.

The $10 million lawsuit we filed in Houston against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individuals exemplifies our commitment to piercing through this web of denial and forcing responsibility onto every liable party. And we are prepared to do the same for families in Hunterdon County.

The Multi-Layered Web of Accountability

When we pursue a hazing lawsuit, we cast a wide net to ensure no responsible party escapes justice. Here are the defendants we typically target and why they are liable:

1. The Local Chapter (e.g., Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Chapter):

   • Reason for Liability: This is the immediate perpetrator. The local chapter directly organized, executed, and facilitated the hazing activities. They fostered the environment where abuse thrived.
   • Our Case: The Beta Nu Chapter actively subjected Leonel Bermudez to waterboarding, forced physical exertion, and humiliation. Their officers and members were key participants.

2. Individual Members and Officers:

   • Reason for Liability: Every individual who actively participated in, directed, encouraged, or failed to intervene in a hazing incident can be held personally liable. This includes the chapter president, pledgemaster, and any active member involved.
   • Our Case: Our lawsuit names the fraternity president, pledgemaster, and other current and former members. Notably, it also names a former member and his spouse because hazing occurred at their residence. This demonstrates our commitment to finding everyone responsible. As seen in the Stone Foltz case, individual officers can be held personally liable for millions of dollars.

3. The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization (e.g., Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc.):

   • Reason for Liability: National organizations have a fundamental duty to supervise their local chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, and ensure a safe environment. When they fail, despite knowing the risks, they are liable. They often provide insurance, training, and guidance, making them deeply influential.
   • Our Case: Pi Kappa Phi National had actual knowledge of the dangers of hazing, evidenced by the 2017 death of Andrew Coffey at their Florida State chapter. Our lawsuit alleges they “failed to enforce anti-hazing rules and policies despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'” Their immediate closure of the UH chapter post-incident is further evidence of their direct involvement and awareness. This pattern confirms their negligence.
   • Hunterdon County Connection: National fraternities like Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Chi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and Pi Kappa Alpha have numerous chapters at universities in New Jersey, including Rutgers University, Princeton University, Rowan University, Montclair State University, and The College of New Jersey. Their national headquarters are legally responsible for the actions of these chapters.

4. The University or College (e.g., University of Houston):

   • Reason for Liability: Universities have a non-delegable duty to protect their students from foreseeable harm, especially on properties they own or control. They have the power to regulate, suspend, or ban Greek organizations, and a responsibility to enforce anti-hazing policies. Their negligence can arise from inadequate supervision, failure to investigate, or ignoring previous incidents.
   • Our Case: The University of Houston owned and controlled the fraternity house where the hazing occurred. They had prior actual knowledge of severe hazing on their campus from a 2017 incident involving a Pi Kappa Alpha pledge who suffered a lacerated spleen. Despite this, they failed to implement sufficient safeguards. Their property ownership creates a clear premise liability claim.
   • Hunterdon County Connection: Universities throughout New Jersey, whether public or private, host Greek life organizations. If a student from Hunterdon County is hazed at Rutgers, Princeton, or any other institution, that university bears a heavy responsibility.

5. The Governing Board (e.g., UH Board of Regents):

   • Reason for Liability: As the ultimate governing body of a public university, the Board of Regents is responsible for the overall oversight and policies that affect student safety. Their failure to ensure adequate protection can lead to institutional liability.

6. Housing Corporations (e.g., Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc):

   • Reason for Liability: These entities often own the physical fraternity houses. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of the property and can be held liable under premises liability laws if hazing occurs on their property.
   • Our Case: This specific corporation is named along with its EIN 462267515 in Frisco, Texas, demonstrating our firm’s meticulous research into corporate structures.

7. Insurance Carriers:

   • Reason for Liability: While not direct perpetrators, insurance carriers ultimately hold the “deep pockets” that fund settlements and verdicts. National organizations, universities, and housing corporations typically carry substantial liability insurance policies that cover hazing incidents.
   • Our Advantage: As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena know the insurance industry’s tactics from the inside out. They understand how claims are valued, how defenses are strategized, and how to unearth every available policy to maximize a victim’s recovery.

The Power of Data: Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Database

We don’t guess who is responsible; we know. Our firm maintains one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations, specifically in Texas, but the insight extends nationwide to organizations operating in Hunterdon County. This includes EINs, legal names, addresses, identification of house corporations, alumni chapters, and detailed insurance structures. This intelligence allows us to immediately identify every entity behind the Greek letters and build an airtight case from day one.

For example, our database includes organizations like Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc with EIN 462267515 in Frisco, Texas, which is the exact entity tied to the UH chapter we are currently suing. When hazing happens, we know exactly who to sue. These aren’t just student groups; they are often sophisticated tax-exempt corporations with significant financial backing and insurance policies, which is exactly why they are named in our lawsuits.

This meticulous data collection allows us to effectively pursue accountability for any student from Hunterdon County who suffers harm, connecting the patterns of national organizations to their specific chapters, no matter where they are located.

What These Cases Win: Hunterdon County Families Recovering Millions

For families in Hunterdon County grappling with the aftermath of hazing, one of the most pressing questions is often: “Can we truly win? Can we get justice?” The answer, unequivocally, is yes. We have a proven track record, and nationwide precedent demonstrates that hazing cases, particularly those involving severe injury or wrongful death, can and do result in multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. These aren’t just numbers; they represent comprehensive support for victims’ lifelong medical needs, lost potential, and the profound pain and suffering endured.

These landmark cases send an undeniable message to fraternities, universities, and their insurers: hazing costs millions. And we are prepared to achieve these same results for Hunterdon County victims.

Landmark Verdicts and Settlements: Holding Institutions Accountable

Here are some of the most prominent multi-million dollar hazing cases that set the standard for accountability, applicable to any student from Hunterdon County who has been victimized:

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’s Pi Kappa Alpha chapter, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during an initiation ritual and died of alcohol poisoning.
• The Outcome: Bowling Green State University settled for $2.9 million, marking the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history. The Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity and other individuals settled for $7.2 million. Most recently, in December 2024, a jury ordered Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, to pay an additional $6.5 million in personal liability.
• Significance for Hunterdon County: This case directly validates our $10 million demand in the Leonel Bermudez lawsuit. It proves that both universities and national fraternities face multi-million dollar liability. It also highlights that individuals directly responsible, even student leaders, can be held personally liable for millions, a critical precedent for Hunterdon County cases.

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

• Total Recovery: $6.1 Million Jury Verdict
• What Happened: In September 2017, Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman pledge at LSU, died from acute alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.495) after being forced to drink massive amounts of alcohol during a “Bible Study” hazing ritual.
• The Outcome: The Gruver family was awarded a $6.1 million jury verdict. Several fraternity members were criminally charged, with one convicted of negligent homicide and sentenced to prison. The tragedy spurred the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
• Significance for Hunterdon County: This case demonstrates that juries are willing to deliver substantial verdicts in hazing cases, especially when the conduct is egregious. It underscores the potential for parallel criminal proceedings and the legislative impact that these cases can have, potentially leading to stronger anti-hazing laws in New Jersey as well.

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

• Total Recovery: $110 Million+ (Estimated Settlements)
• What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old pledge at Penn State’s Beta Theta Pi chapter, was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes. He fell down a flight of stairs, suffered a traumatic brain injury, and fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911. He died two days later. Security cameras captured the entire horrific event.
• The Outcome: While confidential, settlements are estimated to exceed $110 million. 18 fraternity members faced criminal charges, with multiple convictions including involuntary manslaughter. Pennsylvania passed the “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.”
• Significance for Hunterdon County: This monumental case illustrates the immense financial burden on institutions when evidence of severe hazing and institutional negligence is undeniable. The presence of clear video evidence was crucial, emphasizing the importance of detailed documentation in all hazing cases. This case highlights how severely these incidents impact families, like those from Hunterdon County who send their children to top universities in Pennsylvania, such as Penn State, Pitt, or Temple.

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

• Total Recovery: Over $4 Million Settlement
• What Happened: In February 2021, Adam Oakes, a freshman pledge at VCU, died from acute alcohol poisoning after a Delta Chi hazing event at which he was forced to consume a large bottle of whiskey.
• The Outcome: The Oakes family settled for over $4 million in October 2024, with a significant portion dedicated to the “Love Like Adam” Foundation, which advocates against hazing. State legislation, “Adam’s Law,” was also passed in Virginia.
• Significance for Hunterdon County: This recent settlement, stemming from a $28 million initial lawsuit demand, reinforces that comprehensive recoveries are attainable for families. It shows that even when a case settles, the impact extends beyond the courtroom through advocacy and legislative change, offering hope and a blueprint for Hunterdon County families seeking justice and reform.

The Specific Message from Our Bermudez Case

Our ongoing $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is particularly relevant for Hunterdon County. Why?

• Same Fraternity, Same Danger: Pi Kappa Phi is the same national organization involved in the death of Andrew Coffey in 2017. They had eight years to change their culture but failed, leading directly to Leonel Bermudez’s severe injuries. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and foreseeability.
• University Knowledge: The University of Houston itself had a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017 with another fraternity. They knew this could happen again. This negligence is not unique to Texas; universities throughout New Jersey must also be held to account for similar failures.
• Torture, Not Tradition: The egregious nature of the hazing suffered by Leonel – waterboarding, wooden paddles, forced eating – will resonate with a jury and justifies significant punitive damages, just as they did in the Gruver and Piazza cases.

Hazing Costs Millions: A Warning to All

These multi-million dollar outcomes serve as a dire warning to every fraternity that operates chapters at universities in New Jersey and beyond, as well as to the universities themselves. Whether it’s the large state schools like Rutgers or the more intimate private colleges, the risk of hazing resulting in severe injury or death, and the subsequent financial fallout for the institutions involved, is very real.

For Hunterdon County families, this means that pursuing legal action is not only possible but often necessary to secure their child’s future, compensate for their suffering, and force meaningful change within organizations that have consistently prioritized “tradition” over safety.

Texas Law Protects You: A Legal Framework for Hunterdon County Hazing Victims

When a student from Hunterdon County is subjected to hazing, it’s not merely a “college prank” gone wrong; it’s a violation of fundamental rights, and often, a criminal act. While our firm is based in Texas, the legal principles that underpin our successful hazing litigation are universally applicable, with many states, including New Jersey, enacting strong anti-hazing laws. Understanding these legal frameworks is crucial for any family seeking justice.

Texas Hazing Laws: A Model for Accountability

Texas has some of the most robust anti-hazing legislation in the country, encapsulated in the Texas Education Code § 37.151-37.157. These laws provide a clear legal basis for holding perpetrators and institutions accountable, and similar statutes exist in New Jersey, echoing the same intent to protect students.

Defining Hazing: No Ambiguity Here

Texas Education Code § 37.151 defines hazing as:

Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act occurring on or off campus that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in an organization.

This definition specifically includes:

• Physical brutality: Such as whipping, beating, striking, or applying harmful substances. Leonel’s case involved being “struck with wooden paddles,” a clear violation.
• Acts endangering health or safety: Including sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, confinement in small spaces, or calisthenics or similar activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student. Leonel’s 500 squats and subsequent rhabdomyolysis fall squarely under this.
• Forced consumption: Of food, liquid, alcoholic beverages, or other substances that pose an unreasonable risk of harm. Leonel’s forced eating until vomiting is a direct example.

Hunterdon County Relevance: These broad definitions mean that the types of hazing experienced by students from Hunterdon County—whether forced alcohol consumption at a fraternity party near Rutgers, or psychological torment at a sports team initiation down the shore—are very likely covered by anti-hazing laws in New Jersey and can form the basis of a strong civil claim.

Criminal Penalties: Hazing Is a Crime

Texas law outlines serious criminal consequences for hazing:

• A person who engages in hazing commits a Class B Misdemeanor (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine).
• If hazing results in serious bodily injury (like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure), it escalates to a Class A Misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail, $4,000 fine).
• If hazing causes death, it is a State Jail Felony (180 days to 2 years state jail, $10,000 fine).
• An individual with firsthand knowledge who fails to report hazing can also face Class B Misdemeanor charges.

Hunterdon County Relevance: New Jersey’s criminal anti-hazing statute, particularly the “Timothy J. Piazza’s Law,” enacted in 2017, significantly increased the penalties for hazing, with provisions for aggravated hazing leading to serious bodily injury being a third-degree crime (up to 5 years in prison, $15,000 fine), and causing death being a second-degree crime (up to 10 years in prison, $150,000 fine). This demonstrates that New Jersey, like Texas, takes hazing very seriously, creating a strong legal foundation for victims.

Organizational Liability: Holding Groups Accountable

Texas Education Code § 37.153 states:

An organization commits an offense if the organization condones or encourages hazing or if an officer or any combination of members, pledges, or alumni of the organization commits or assists in the commission of hazing.

Organizations can face fines up to $10,000, denial of operating permission, and forfeiture of property.

Hunterdon County Relevance: This is particularly powerful for targeting institutions. If a fraternity chapter near Hunterdon County, its national organization, or a university “condones or encourages” hazing, they are directly liable. In New Jersey, the law similarly outlines organizational responsibility and imposes reporting requirements on institutions.

Consent Is NOT a Defense: A Critical Legal Shield

One of the most insidious arguments perpetrators use is that the victim “consented” to the hazing. Texas Education Code § 37.154 directly refutes this:

“It is not a defense to prosecution for an offense under this subchapter that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

This is paramount. It means that no matter what the fraternity claimed Leonel “agreed” to, under Texas law, his consent is irrelevant because hazing is illegal. The law recognizes that true consent cannot be given under duress, peer pressure, or the threat of social exclusion and physical abuse.

Hunterdon County Relevance: New Jersey’s “Timothy J. Piazza’s Law” also explicitly states that “consent is not a defense” to hazing. This uniform legal stance across proactive states like New Jersey and Texas is vital for empowering victims and disarming the defense’s most common cynical argument.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Justice

Beyond criminal charges, civil lawsuits allow victims to seek monetary compensation for their injuries and losses. This can include:

• Negligence: The most common claim. Educational institutions, national fraternities, and local chapters owe a duty of care to their students and members. When they breach this duty by permitting hazing, creating unsafe environments, or failing to properly supervise, they are negligent.
• Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university or a housing corporation (as in Leonel’s case, where UH owned the fraternity house), they can be held liable for creating or allowing a dangerous condition.
• Negligent Supervision: This applies to national organizations that fail to adequately oversee their chapters and universities that fail to monitor Greek life activities.
• Assault and Battery: Individual participants can be sued for intentional harmful or offensive contact.
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: Hazing that involves extreme and outrageous conduct, causing severe emotional distress (like PTSD or anxiety), can lead to this claim.

These civil claims are not bound by state lines in the same way criminal statutes are. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) allow us to pursue complex civil litigation nationwide, meaning these civil remedies are fully available for a Hunterdon County family whose child has been hurt.

The legal framework, both in Texas and increasingly across the nation like in New Jersey, is clear: hazing is a serious offense with severe consequences. We use these laws, coupled with our aggressive litigation strategies, to ensure that the victims’ rights are protected and justice is served.

Why Attorney 911: Hunterdon County’s Unrivaled Hazing Litigation Experts

When a hazing tragedy strikes a family in Hunterdon County, the choice of legal representation can define the path to justice. This isn’t just about finding a lawyer; it’s about finding a team with the unparalleled expertise, relentless drive, and deep understanding of hazing litigation necessary to take on powerful institutions and win. At Attorney 911, we embody these qualities, offering Hunterdon County families a distinct advantage born from a unique blend of legal experience and unwavering commitment.

We understand that families in Hunterdon County might initially consider local firms, but in the highly specialized and fiercely contested arena of hazing litigation, generic personal injury experience is simply not enough. You need specialists who have literally written the book on fighting fraternities and universities.

Our Battle-Tested Credentials: The Attorney 911 Advantage

1. 25+ Years of Frontline Courtroom Experience:
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, brings over two decades of intense courtroom experience to every case. He is a battle-tested trial attorney who isn’t afraid to take on the toughest opponents. For Hunterdon County families, this means proven expertise and a lawyer who knows how to navigate the complex legal landscape of hazing cases.

2. Insider Knowledge from Former Insurance Defense Attorneys:
Both Ralph Manginello AND Lupe Peña are former insurance defense lawyers. This isn’t a coincidence; it’s a strategic advantage. Lupe Peña sharpened his skills at Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm, where he defended insurance companies and corporations across various practice areas. They know the insurance companies’ playbooks inside and out—how they value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts.

• Hunterdon County Benefit: We understand exactly how the national fraternities, universities, and their mega-insurance carriers will attempt to fight your Hunterdon County case, and we know exactly how to dismantle their defenses to maximize your family’s recovery.

3. Federal Court Admissions for Nationwide Reach:
Our attorneys are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and possess federal court authority.

• Hunterdon County Benefit: Hazing cases against national fraternities or for incidents at out-of-state universities often escalate to federal court. Our federal court admissions mean we are perfectly positioned to represent Hunterdon County families whose child attended a university anywhere in the country, or was hazed by a nationally chartered organization.

4. Dual-State Bar Admissions (Texas AND New York):
Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas and New York.

• Hunterdon County Benefit: This dual licensure provides a strategic advantage for Hunterdon County cases against national fraternities whose headquarters might be located in New York or other states, or for students from Hunterdon County who are attending New York universities. It broadens our legal reach and expertise significantly.

5. Currently Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit:
We aren’t theoretical; we’re in the fight right now. The Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case is not just a case study for us; it’s a living, breathing testament to our firm’s aggressive approach. We are actively fighting the national fraternity, a major public university, and numerous individuals.

• Hunterdon County Benefit: This direct, ongoing experience means Hunterdon County families get the exact same aggressive, data-driven, and thoroughly prepared representation as our flagship case. We know the current tactics, the latest loopholes, and the most effective strategies because we’re employing them today.

6. Experience Against Massive Corporate Defendants—The BP Texas City Explosion:
Ralph Manginello was deeply involved in the multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP following the catastrophic Texas City refinery explosion.

• Hunterdon County Benefit: This experience demonstrates our capacity to successfully litigate against the largest, most formidable corporate defendants. Taking on a national fraternity or a major university is a similar challenge, requiring the same level of strategic thinking and resource allocation.

7. Deep Expertise in Rhabdomyolysis and Severe Injuries:
We have specific hands-on expertise in rhabdomyolysis cases, the very condition that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez.

• Hunterdon County Benefit: If your child has suffered severe physical injuries like rhabdomyolysis, traumatic brain injury, or organ damage due to hazing, we understand the complex medical nuances and how to fight for comprehensive compensation for lifelong care.

8. Bilingual Legal Services (Se Habla Español):
Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff is bilingual.

• Hunterdon County Benefit: This ensures that Spanish-speaking families in Hunterdon County receive clear, empathetic, and comprehensive legal services without any language barriers, which is crucial for clear communication during a stressful time.

9. Compassionate, Client-Centered Approach:
Despite our aggressive litigation style, we maintain a warm, friendly, and humble approach with our clients. We understand the immense trauma hazing victims and their families experience.

• Hunterdon County Benefit: We treat Hunterdon County families like our own. Our clients are not just case numbers; they are individuals we are passionately fighting for. This is reflected in our 4.9-star Google rating from over 250 reviews, with testimonials frequently highlighting our caring approach. Clients repeatedly say, “You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.”

Our “Insurance Counter-Intelligence System”

What truly sets Attorney 911 apart is that both our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, are former insurance defense lawyers. This isn’t an accident; it’s a deliberate and powerful advantage for our hazing victims. They both learned the defense’s strategies, their valuation methods, their delay tactics, and their lowest tolerance for settlements from the inside. Now, they use that very intelligence to dismantle the defense and maximize recovery for our clients. It’s an unfair advantage for victims, and precisely what Hunterdon County families need.

For Hunterdon County: We Come to You

While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, distance is no barrier to justice. We regularly provide remote consultations via video with families in Hunterdon County and across the nation. For depositions, client meetings, and trials, our attorneys are fully prepared to travel to Hunterdon County or any location where your child’s case unfolds. We believe that every victim, regardless of location, deserves expert representation, and we will ensure that Hunterdon County families receive it.

Choosing Attorney 911 means choosing a tenacious, knowledgeable, and compassionate team that is actively fighting the exact battle you are facing. We are not theoretical; we are living proof of what happens when hazing goes unchecked, and we are ready to fight for your child’s future.

What to Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Hunterdon County Hazing Victims

The moment you discover your child from Hunterdon County has been a victim of hazing, a thousand emotions race through you: fear, anger, confusion, and a desperate need to protect your child. In these critical first hours and days, every action you take, or fail to take, can profoundly impact the future of your child’s well-being and any potential legal case. We understand this overwhelming urgency. Here is critical, actionable guidance for Hunterdon County families, designed to help you navigate this devastating time.

The Immediate Crisis: Protecting Your Child in Hunterdon County

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention:

   • Prioritize Health: If your child has ANY physical injuries, shows signs of illness, or expresses any physical discomfort (like muscle pain, dark urine, vomiting, extreme fatigue), get them to an emergency room or doctor immediately. Do not delay.
   • Document Everything: Ensure all medical personnel know the injuries are hazing-related. Obtain copies of all medical records, doctor’s notes, test results (like blood tests for rhabdomyolysis or alcohol levels), and imaging scans. These are crucial evidence.
   • Mental Health Support: Hazing inflicts deep psychological wounds. Seek professional counseling or therapy for your child. Document these sessions and any diagnoses (e.g., PTSD, anxiety, depression). Even if physical injuries seem minor, the mental anguish can be profound.

2. Ensure Safety:

   • Remove from Harm: If your child is still in a hazardous environment, remove them immediately. This might mean leaving the fraternity house, dorm, or campus housing.
   • Threat Assessment: Understand if there are any ongoing threats or risks of retaliation from perpetrators. Your child’s physical and emotional safety is paramount.

Preserving Evidence: The Foundation of Your Hunterdon County Case

The perpetrators and institutions will attempt to deny, minimize, or even destroy evidence. You must act quickly to secure anything that tells your child’s story.

1. Digital Communications are Key:

   • Text Messages & Group Chats: Preserve every single text message, GroupMe chat, Snapchat, Instagram DM, WhatsApp message, or any other digital communication related to the hazing. Take screenshots. Do not delete anything. These often contain direct evidence of demands, threats, locations, and schedules. Our video “Using Your Phone to Document Evidence” emphasizes that screenshots are powerful evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs).
   • Social Media: Take screenshots of any relevant social media posts by the fraternity, individual members, or your child. However, caution your child: DO NOT POST ON SOCIAL MEDIA about the incident or their emotions. Anything posted can and will be used by the defense to discredit them. Our video “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident” underscores this critical warning.
   • Emails: Save any emails from the organization, university, or individual members.

2. Photographic & Video Evidence:

   • Injuries: Take clear, well-lit photographs of any physical injuries your child sustained (bruises, cuts, burns, swelling) at multiple stages of healing. Show the progression.
   • Hazing Locations: If safe to do so, document the locations where hazing occurred. This could include fraternity houses, specific rooms, parks, or secluded areas.
   • Physical Objects: If any physical objects were used in the hazing (e.g., paddles, fanny packs like in Leonel’s case, specific clothing), photograph them.

3. Witness Identification:

   • Other Victims/Witnesses: Try to identify other pledges or individuals who witnessed or suffered similar hazing. Obtain their names and contact information. Their testimony can corroborate your child’s account. Promise them anonymity until legal counsel is obtained.
   • Bystanders: Any non-affiliated individuals who may have seen or heard hazing activities.

4. Documents & Manuals:

   • Pledge Manuals/Schedules: Any written materials distributed to pledges outlining rules, schedules, or expectations.
   • University Policies: Copies of the university’s anti-hazing policies, Greek life rules, and student conduct codes.
   • Financial Records: Keep track of all medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages if your child missed work, and any academic expenses related to the incident (tuition, fees).

Critical “Don’ts”: Avoiding Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

1. DO NOT Talk to Perpetrators or Organizations:

   • Do not confront the fraternity/sorority leaders or individual members.
   • Do not talk to university administrators (Title IX office, Dean of Students, Greek Life office) without legal counsel. They are often protecting the institution first, not your child.
   • Do not talk to their lawyers or insurance adjusters. They are trained to get you to admit information that will damage your case. Our video “Never Talk to the Insurance Company After an Accident” explains why.

2. DO NOT Sign Anything:

   • Do not sign any documents, waivers, or statements provided by the fraternity, university, or their representatives. You could inadvertently waive your child’s legal rights.

3. DO NOT Delete Anything:

   • Resist the urge to delete incriminating messages or photos. This could be considered spoliation of evidence and severely harm your case. Our video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” highlights how deleting messages can destroy your case.

Contacting Attorney 911: Your First Call for Justice in Hunterdon County

1. Call Us Immediately:

   • Hazing cases have statutes of limitations (typically a two-year window in New Jersey and Texas), and evidence disappears quickly. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be. Our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” explains the urgency (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c).
   • Our direct line for Hunterdon County families is: 1-888-ATTY-911. We are available 24/7.
   • Email us: ralph@atty911.com.

2. Free Consultation: No Obligation:

   • We offer a completely free, no-obligation consultation. You can discuss your child’s situation in confidence.
   • Hunterdon County families can schedule video consultations with our attorneys without needing to travel.

3. Contingency Fee: No Upfront Cost:

   • We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay us any attorney fees unless we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice without financial burden. Our video “How Contingency Fees Work” explains this in detail (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc).

Your child’s future, and the safety of countless other students, depends on you taking swift, informed action. Let Attorney 911 be your first responder in this legal emergency.

Contact Us: Your Advocates for Justice in Hunterdon County

If your family in Hunterdon County is reeling from the devastating impact of hazing, you are not alone. The journey to recovery and justice can feel overwhelming, but we are here to walk that path with you. At Attorney 911, we are more than just lawyers; we are passionate advocates for victims of hazing, committed to securing the accountability and compensation your child deserves.

Our attorneys are currently representing a hazing victim against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston in a landmark $10 million lawsuit. This is not a hypothetical fight for us; it is a real, ongoing battle for justice that demonstrates our unwavering commitment. We know how to build these complex cases, how to dismantle the defenses of powerful institutions, and how to win. We bring this same aggressive, data-driven representation to Hunterdon County families.

Hunterdon County Families: Call Us Now for a Free Consultation

If your child has been subjected to hazing, the time to act is now. Every moment counts.

📞 Immediate Legal Assistance for Hunterdon County Families:

1-888-ATTY-911

📧 Email Us: ralph@atty911.com

🌐 Visit Our Website: attorney911.com

We are available 24/7 for hazing emergencies, because we know this crisis doesn’t adhere to business hours.

No Upfront Costs: Our Commitment to Hunterdon County Victims

We understand that pursuing legal action might seem daunting, especially when your family is already facing emotional and financial strain. That’s why we work on a CONTINGENCY FEE basis. This means:

• $0 Upfront: You pay absolutely nothing out-of-pocket to retain our services.
• We Don’t Get Paid Unless You Do: Our fees are contingent upon us securing a settlement or verdict in your favor. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

This commitment ensures that every Hunterdon County family, regardless of their financial situation, can access top-tier legal representation against powerful adversaries.

Distance is Not a Barrier to Justice

While our main offices are located in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our reach extends nationwide. We regularly represent hazing victims across the country, including those in Hunterdon County and throughout New Jersey.

• Video Consultations: We offer convenient and confidential video consultations, allowing Hunterdon County families to meet with our attorneys from the comfort and privacy of their homes.
• Federal Court Authority: Our admission to federal courts allows us to pursue cases involving national organizations, no matter where the hazing incident occurred.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York, providing a strategic advantage in litigating against national fraternities often headquartered or with significant operations in other states relevant to New Jersey.
• We Come to You: When necessary for depositions, critical meetings, or trials, our team will travel to Hunterdon County to represent your interests. Justice knows no geographic bounds.

We Represent All Hazing Victims in Hunterdon County

Hazing is not confined to fraternities and sororities, nor is it limited to college campuses. We represent victims of hazing in:

• Fraternities and Sororities: At universities throughout New Jersey, such as Rutgers University in New Brunswick, Princeton University, The College of New Jersey in Ewing, Rowan University in Glassboro, and Montclair State University.
• Sports Teams: High school, college, and club sports teams across Hunterdon County.
• Marching Bands and Performing Arts Groups: In local high schools or colleges.
• ROTC and Military Organizations: On or near Hunterdon County campuses.
• Clubs and Organizations: Any student group that engages in abusive initiation rituals.

If you have been harmed by hazing in any context, we want to hear from you.

To Other Victims of University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

We know Leonel Bermudez was not the only one. Another pledge lost consciousness just weeks before Leonel’s hospitalization. Countless others endured similar waterboarding, forced eating, extreme exercise, and humiliation. If you were a victim or witnessed this hazing, you have rights. We can represent you.

As Attorney Lupe Pena said: “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 ensure every perpetrator is brought to justice.

Take That First Step Towards Justice in Hunterdon County

The pain and trauma of hazing can feel isolating. But speaking out is the first step toward healing and accountability. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovery. We are your dedicated allies—your Legal Emergency Lawyers™—ready to fight for you.

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