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, to explore new opportunities, to grow into the person they were meant to be. Instead, in Charles City County, or a college town near you, they were tortured. They were abused. They were humiliated. They were injured, perhaps even critically, by the very people and institutions sworn to protect them. We’re here to help families in Charles City County fight back, to turn unimaginable pain into powerful accountability.

We understand what you’re going through. The confusion, the anger, the fear – we see it in the eyes of every parent whose child has been subjected to the horrors of hazing. You’re searching for answers at 2 AM, trying to make sense of how this could happen. We want you to know: it’s not your fault, and you are not alone. Our firm, Attorney911, stands with victims and their families in Charles City County and across the nation, aggressively pursuing justice and holding every responsible party accountable.

The Haunting Echoes of Charles City County: What Happened in Houston Can Happen Here

What we’re about to share is not an isolated incident. It’s a stark warning. Just recently, in November 2025, our firm, Attorney911, filed a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members. This is the case of Leonel Bermudez, a young man, not even a University of Houston student yet, who was subjected to weeks of systematic abuse, waterboarding, forced eating, extreme physical punishment, and psychological torture. This happened in Houston. This happens nationwide. This could happen in Charles City County.

Families in Charles City County send their children to universities across Virginia and beyond, including institutions like the University of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University, William & Mary, Virginia State University, and many others. Our work at Attorney911 shows that these national fraternities—like Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, and Phi Delta Theta—have chapters at institutions throughout Virginia. The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client in Houston are practiced in these chapters. The same institutional negligence that we are fighting at the University of Houston can exist at universities your children attend, whether they are in Richmond, Williamsburg, Petersburg, or across the country.

Our firm is committed to protecting students and families in Charles City County. We will fight for your child with the same aggression and data-driven strategy we are bringing to the landmark Bermudez case. This isn’t just a legal battle for us; it’s a moral crusade to end the culture of hazing that has claimed too many lives and shattered countless futures.

The Bermudez Case: A $10 Million Fight Against Torture, Negligence, and Betrayal

The story of Leonel Bermudez is not merely a case file for us; it is a living, continuing battle that defines what Attorney911 stands for: aggressive representation, data-driven litigation, and relentless pursuit of accountability. This $10 million lawsuit, filed in Harris County Civil District Court in November 2025, is more than just a legal action; it’s a testament to the devastating reality of modern hazing and our unwavering commitment to justice.

Leonel Bermudez was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member of Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston, planning to transfer for the upcoming semester. He wasn’t even an enrolled student, yet for weeks, he endured a systematic campaign of terror and abuse. From September 16, 2025, when he accepted his bid, until November 3, 2025, his dream of brotherhood morphed into a nightmare of physical and psychological torture.

The Horrors Leonel Endured: Hazing Activities Exposed

The lawsuit meticulously details the unimaginable acts of hazing that were inflicted upon Leonel and other pledges:

• Waterboarding and Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose.” Pledges were sprayed in the face with a hose while doing calisthenics, forced to run repeatedly under the threat of this inhumane act. It is crucial to understand that waterboarding is a recognized form of torture, a war crime when inflicted upon enemy combatants. Yet, members of Pi Kappa Phi inflicted it upon their prospective “brothers.”
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Pledges were compelled to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited. The cruelty didn’t end there; they were then forced to continue running sprints in physical distress, often in their own vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: Leonel was forced to perform over 100 push-ups and 500 squats. Other drills included high-volume “suicides” (sprinting drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. Pledges were struck with wooden paddles. On November 3, after missing an event, Leonel was punished to the point where he could not stand without help. These exercises pushed his body beyond its limits, leading to severe injury.
• Psychological Torture and Humiliation: Pledges were forced to strip to their underwear in cold weather. 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. Threats of physical punishment and expulsion were constant, creating an environment of fear and control.
• Sleep Deprivation and Exhaustion: Forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, Leonel suffered from exhaustion that profoundly impacted his daily life and well-being.

The Devastating Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

The physical toll of this abuse was catastrophic. By November 6, 2025, Leonel’s mother rushed him to the hospital. He was “passing brown urine,” a tell-tale sign of severe muscle breakdown. Diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, Leonel spent three nights and four days hospitalized. Rhabdomyolysis is a life-threatening condition where damaged muscle tissue releases a harmful protein (myoglobin) into the bloodstream, overwhelming the kidneys. The long-term risk of permanent kidney damage remains a terrifying concern. This is the same medical condition our firm, Attorney911, has successfully litigated before, demonstrating Ralph Manginello’s specific expertise in such cases.

The Institutional Response: Too Little, Too Late, and Utterly Unapologetic

The institutions’ reactions speak volumes. Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, in a statement dated November 21, 2025, formally acknowledged they closed their Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025—a full week before our lawsuit was even filed. They cited “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This pre-emptive closure is a clear admission of guilt and an attempt to mitigate their liability, yet they still expressed a desire to “return to campus at the appropriate time,” revealing a troubling lack of remorse.

The University of Houston’s own spokesperson, responding to the Houston Public Media on November 24, 2025, called the events “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of our community standards.” They highlighted their internal investigation in coordination with law enforcement, mentioning “potential criminal charges.” These statements are admissions of profound institutional failure. It wasn’t just a building; it was a “University-owned fraternity house” where these heinous acts occurred, directly implicating the university in premises liability.

Why the Bermudez Case Matters So Deeply to Charles City County Families

1. “Tradition” is Torture: This case shatters any romanticized notions of hazing. These were acts of torture, not harmless pranks. Charles City County parents must understand that the “traditions” that hospitalized Leonel are often replicated in fraternities on campuses near them.
2. Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the property where much of this abuse occurred. Universities near Charles City County, including those in Virginia, have enormous power to regulate Greek life. When they fail to act, they share culpability.
3. National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi National’s swift closure of the chapter proves they knew the conduct was indefensible. This is damning evidence of their failure to oversee their “150+ chapters across America.” If your child is pledging a national fraternity in Charles City County, that national organization carries the same inherent risks.
4. Victims Are Afraid, We Protect: Leonel Bermudez and his family fear retribution, a common sentiment among hazing victims. Our firm provides a shield, enabling victims to seek justice without fear.
5. A $10 Million Message: This lawsuit sends an unequivocal message: the cost of torturing our children is astronomical. Charles City County families have the power to send this same message, ensuring that such egregious acts are met with severe financial penalties and meaningful changes.

As Lupe Peña stated, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Our fight for Leonel Bermudez is a fight for every student in Charles City County who might otherwise become a victim.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

When families in Charles City County hear the word “hazing,” they might conjure images of silly pranks or lighthearted initiation games. The reality is far more sinister, a brutal landscape where “tradition” serves as a flimsy excuse for abuse, degradation, and sometimes, even death. This is not about building brotherhood; it is about breaking down individuals and fostering a culture of blind obedience through fear and intimidation. What Leonel Bermudez endured, and what countless others face, is a chilling testament to this truth.

The True Face of Hazing: A Catalog of Cruelty

Hazing is not a singular act but a spectrum of psychological and physical torment. Based on our current litigation and years of experience, we’ve identified patterns of behavior far removed from harmless antics:

• Physical Abuse: This includes direct acts of violence such as beatings, paddling, burning, branding, or forced physical activities that push students beyond their limits. Leonel Bermudez was struck with wooden paddles and forced into extreme calisthenics that led to organ failure. “High-volume suicides,” bear crawls, and repeated 100-yard crawls are not character-building exercises; they are methods of physical subjugation designed to break the will and often the body.
• Forced Consumption: A common and deadly form of hazing involves forcing pledges to consume large quantities of alcohol, food until vomiting, or even non-food substances. This often leads to alcohol poisoning, aspiration, and severe gastrointestinal distress. Leonel was made to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited, then ordered to continue physical exertion in his own vomit.
• Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often kept awake for extended periods, forced to perform tasks late at night or early in the morning, leading to extreme fatigue, impaired judgment, and increased vulnerability. Leonel was made to drive members during early morning hours, contributing to his exhausted state.
• Psychological Torture: This is often the most insidious and long-lasting form of hazing. It includes humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, isolation, threats, and acts designed to strip individuals of their dignity and self-worth. Leonel was forced to carry a fanny pack with sexually suggestive items and subjected to the terror of waterboarding. Another pledge was hog-tied, an extreme act of dehumanization.
• Sexual Harassment and Assault: Hazing often includes forced nudity, sexually suggestive acts, or actual sexual assault. The use of sexual objects, as Leonel Bermudez experienced, is a common tactic to humiliate and degrade pledges.
• Simulated Drowning (Waterboarding): As detailed in the Bermudez case, waterboarding is a form of torture that mimics drowning. It creates an overwhelming sense of suffocation and helplessness. That this has become a “hazing tradition” at some fraternities is an indictment of a culture that has lost its moral compass.
• Exposure: Pledges may be forced to endure extreme weather conditions, confined in small, uncomfortable spaces, or deprived of basic necessities, risking hypothermia, hyperthermia, and other health crises. Leonel was forced to strip to his underwear and sprayed with a hose in cold weather.

The Silent Epidemic: Why Hazing Persists

Despite widespread condemnation and increasing media attention, hazing continues to thrive in many organizations. Several factors contribute to its persistence:

• Fear and Intimidation: Victims are often threatened with physical harm, social ostracization, or exclusion from the group if they report hazing. As Ralph Manginello noted regarding Leonel, the fear of retribution is very real.
• “Tradition” and Secrecy: Hazing rituals are often passed down through generations, cloaked in secrecy and justified as a means of building unity or loyalty.
• Lack of Oversight: Universities and national organizations often fail to adequately monitor their chapters, turning a blind eye to obvious signs of abuse or enacting policies that are not rigorously enforced.
• Peer Pressure: The intense desire to belong, particularly for young adults in a new environment, makes individuals vulnerable to conforming to abusive practices.

The Profound and Lasting Medical and Psychological Scars

The consequences of hazing extend far beyond the immediate physical injuries. Victims often suffer:

• Life-Threatening Physical Injuries: Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure (as seen in Leonel Bermudez), severe alcohol poisoning (Maxwell Gruver, Stone Foltz, Andrew Coffey), traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, severe burns, internal organ damage, and even death.
• Chronic Health Issues: Long-term organ damage, neurological problems, and persistent pain can require lifelong medical care.
• Psychological Trauma: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, paranoia, social withdrawal, difficulty forming trusting relationships, and substance abuse are common and devastating outcomes.
• Academic and Career Impact: Hazing often leads to academic decline, dropped courses, lost scholarships, and impacts future career prospects.

Hazing is not a rite of passage; it is a crime that inflicts profound and lasting damage. For families in Charles City County, understanding the true nature of hazing is the first step toward protecting your children and seeking justice when the unimaginable occurs. We are here to help you navigate this complex and painful reality.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Enabler Accountable in Charles City County

When hazing leaves a student injured or, tragically, dead, the question inevitably arises: who is truly to blame? While the immediate perpetrators—the fraternity members—are undeniably responsible, their acts rarely happen in a vacuum. A complex web of individuals and institutions often contributes to, enables, or turns a blind eye to the abuse. At Attorney911, we believe in holding every single responsible party accountable, from the individual who inflicted the harm to the highest levels of university and national fraternity leadership. We will bring this same comprehensive approach to Charles City County cases, leaving no stone unturned.

The Layers of Culpability: A Blueprint for Justice

Our landmark Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit, with its long list of defendants, serves as a clear blueprint for how we identify and pursue all liable parties in Charles City County:

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

   • Direct Organizers and Perpetrators: This is the most obvious layer of responsibility. The chapter, as an entity, directly organized and conducted the hazing activities. They fostered the environment where abuse thrived.
   • Liability: Direct negligence, vicarious liability for the acts of their members, failing to prevent hazing within their ranks.

2. Chapter Officers (e.g., Fraternity President, Pledgemaster):

   • Leaders and Enforcers: These individuals hold positions of authority within the chapter and are directly responsible for overseeing pledge activities. The president, pledgemaster, and other leaders either actively participated in, directed, or allowed the hazing to occur, often threatening pledges with expulsion if they failed to comply.
   • Liability: Direct negligence, gross negligence, assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, conspiracy. Personal liability for such individuals is a cornerstone of our strategy, as demonstrated by the $6.5 million judgment against a fraternity president in the Stone Foltz case.

3. Individual Fraternity Members:

   • Active Participants and Bystanders: Any member who actively participated in the hazing, whether by administering physical punishment, forcing consumption, or psychologically tormenting pledges, is personally liable. Even those who stood by and did nothing, witnessing the abuse without intervening or reporting it, can be held responsible for their inaction, especially if they held positions of power or influence.
   • Liability: Direct negligence, assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, complicity, aiding and abetting.

4. Former Members and Their Spouses/Property Owners:

   • Off-Campus Facilitators: Hazing often takes place off-campus, sometimes at the residences of former members. In the Bermudez case, former members and even a spouse were named defendants because hazing sessions occurred at their residence.
   • Liability: Premises liability (for those who owned or controlled the property), negligent supervision, complicity, aiding and abetting the hazing. This broadens the scope of accountability beyond just active students.

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

   • Ultimate Oversight and “Deep Pockets”: National organizations are powerful entities with significant financial resources, national oversight structures, and a duty to ensure the safety of their members across all chapters.
   • Failure to Supervise: When a chapter engages in severe hazing, it points to a catastrophic failure of national oversight. As in the Bermudez case, the national headquarters (Pi Kappa Phi National) was aware of a “hazing crisis” and its risk management policies were violated, yet they seemingly continued to allow such egregious acts.
   • Prior Knowledge and Pattern of Negligence: The Andrew Coffey case (2017), where a Pi Kappa Phi pledge died, serves as undeniable proof that the national organization had known about deadly hazing within its chapters for years. Their failure to prevent the hospitalization of Leonel Bermudez eight years later demonstrates a pattern of conscious indifference and gross negligence.
   • Liability: Corporate negligence, negligent supervision, vicarious liability, knowing and willful allowance of hazing, contributing to a dangerous environment. National organizations often settle for millions to protect their brand and endowments.

6. The University or College (e.g., University of Houston, UH Board of Regents):

   • Institutional Duty of Care: Universities have a fundamental duty to provide a safe environment for their students, including those participating in Greek life. This duty extends to regulating student organizations and enforcing anti-hazing policies.
   • Premises Liability: In the Bermudez case, the hazing occurred in a “University-owned fraternity house.” This is a critical factor, as it directly implicates the university in premises liability, meaning they are responsible for dangerous conditions on their property. Universities near Charles City County, where fraternities often reside in university-sanctioned housing, face similar exposure.
   • Prior Knowledge and Failure to Act: The University of Houston had a student hospitalized from hazing in 2017 (Pi Kappa Alpha), proving they knew of a problem. Their failure to implement effective safeguards between 2017 and 2025 demonstrates systemic negligence. This establishes foreseeability—they knew this could happen again.
   • Liability: Negligent supervision, negligent retention (of organizations), failure to warn, premises liability, breach of contract (student code of conduct), Title IX violations (in cases of sexual hazing). Universities typically have substantial insurance policies and endowments to cover large verdicts and settlements.

7. Insurance Carriers:

   • The “Deep Pockets”: Ultimately, the funds for significant settlements and verdicts often come from the liability insurance policies held by national fraternities, universities, and sometimes even individual members (homeowner’s or renter’s insurance).
   • Our Advantage: With Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña’s backgrounds as former insurance defense attorneys, we possess invaluable insider knowledge of how insurance companies evaluate claims, formulate defense strategies, and negotiate settlements. This understanding allows us to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for our clients.

Why This Comprehensive Approach Matters for Charles City County Victims

For families in Charles City County seeking justice after a hazing incident, understanding this multi-layered approach to accountability is vital. It means that even if a local chapter disbands or individual members claim they have no assets, there are still powerful, well-funded institutions with a duty of care that can be held responsible. Our aggressive, data-driven strategy ensures that no party can evade accountability. We don’t just sue the immediate culprits; we dismantle the entire chain of negligence that allowed the abuse to occur.

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

For families in Charles City County grappling with the aftermath of hazing, hope can feel distant. The idea of taking on powerful fraternities and universities might seem impossible. But we assure you, justice is attainable, and the financial consequences for hazing are severe. Attorney911 is fighting these battles right now, and the legal precedent for multi-million dollar outcomes is clear and compelling. These aren’t just statistics; these are the stories of families who fought back and won, holding negligent institutions and individuals accountable. The same aggressive legal strategies that led to these significant recoveries will be employed for Charles City County victims.

Landmark Verdicts & Settlements: When the System Pays for Its Failures

These cases represent the vanguard of hazing litigation in America, each resulting in substantial compensation and, critically, driving legislative change. They send an undeniable message: hazing costs millions, and families demand accountability.

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

Total Payout: $10.1 Million+

• What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, a pledge at BGSU’s Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” initiation. He was found unresponsive the next morning and died from alcohol poisoning.
• The Outcome: Bowling Green State University settled for $2.9 million. Pi Kappa Alpha’s national organization, along with individual members, paid $7.2 million. Most recently, in December 2024, Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million in a separate judgment. This collective action represents one of the largest public university hazing payouts in Ohio history.
• Relevance to Charles City County: This case provides a direct financial benchmark for our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case. It demonstrates that both universities and national fraternities pay multi-million dollar sums, even when a student survives (though critically injured) rather than dies. The personal judgment against Dunson underscores that individual perpetrators face severe financial repercussions.

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

Total Payout: $6.1 Million Verdict

• What Happened: In September 2017, Max Gruver, an 18-year-old LSU freshman, died from acute alcohol poisoning (with a BAC of 0.495) after a Phi Delta Theta pledge event dubbed “Bible Study.” Pledges were forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol for answering questions incorrectly.
• The Outcome: A jury awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million. This tragic death also led to a criminal conviction for negligent homicide against a fraternity member and spurred the creation of the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
• Relevance to Charles City County: This verdict proves that juries are willing to award millions for hazing deaths, even if the university was not found directly liable in this particular civil case. It highlights the potential for both civil and criminal accountability.

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

Total Payout: $110 Million+ (Multiple Settlements)

• What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza, a Penn State pledge, consumed 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi initiation, falling down stairs multiple times while severely intoxicated. Fraternity members delayed calling 911 for 12 hours, during which he suffered further injuries. He died from a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. The entire horrific incident was captured on security cameras.
• The Outcome: The Piazza family reportedly received over $110 million in confidential settlements from various parties, including Penn State and Beta Theta Pi. Criminal charges were brought against 18 fraternity members, leading to multiple convictions, including involuntary manslaughter. Pennsylvania passed the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in his memory.
• Relevance to Charles City County: The Piazza case stands as a powerful example of the immense financial and legal consequences when hazing is meticulously documented and aggressively pursued. It demonstrates that when evidence is strong (and we are meticulously building a strong case for Leonel Bermudez), settlements can reach truly staggering amounts.

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

Total Payout: Confidential Settlement

• What Happened: On November 3, 2017, Andrew Coffey, a Pi Kappa Phi pledge at FSU, died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon during a “Big Brother Night” event.
• The Outcome: Nine fraternity members were charged, and civil lawsuits resulted in confidential settlements. The chapter was permanently closed.
• Relevance to Charles City County: This case is particularly damning for Pi Kappa Phi. It occurred eight years before Leonel Bermudez’s hospitalization. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and a systemic failure by the national organization, demonstrating that they had knowledge of lethal hazing in their chapters and failed to act. This evidence significantly strengthens our pursuit of punitive damages in the Bermudez case.

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

Total Payout: $4 Million+ Settlement

• What Happened: In February 2021, Adam Oakes, a VCU pledge, died after being forced to consume a liter of Jameson whiskey during a Delta Chi bid initiation.
• The Outcome: The Oakes family settled for over $4 million from various defendants including the national fraternity. Six fraternity members faced criminal charges, and “Adam’s Law” was passed in Virginia, enacting stricter hazing penalties.
• Relevance to Charles City County: Not only does this case demonstrate substantial recoveries, but its proximity in Virginia serves as a reminder that these tragedies are not confined to distant states but are happening in your back yard.

Why This Matters for Charles City County Families

These cases are not just historical footnotes; they are live demonstrations that the fight against hazing is winnable. They show that:

• Financial Accountability is Real: Universities, national fraternities, and individual perpetrators have paid—and will continue to pay—millions for hazing injuries and deaths.
• Justice is Possible: Families can find closure and prevent future tragedies by holding powerful institutions accountable.
• Legal Action Drives Change: These lawsuits have led to tougher anti-hazing laws and more stringent university policies, creating a safer environment for future students.
• Your Case Has Value: The trauma endured by your child, the medical bills, the emotional scars—all have a quantifiable value that we are experts at recovering.

When we tell you that we are demanding $10 million in the Bermudez case, it is not an arbitrary figure. It is a demand rooted in concrete legal precedent, the severity of the injuries, and the gross negligence of those responsible. We bring this same expertise and determination to every hazing case we handle for Charles City County families.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights in Charles City County

For families in Charles City County navigating the aftermath of a hazing incident, understanding your legal rights is paramount. While Attorney911 operates primarily in Texas, many legal principles, particularly those concerning civil liability and institutional negligence, apply across state lines. Furthermore, our federal court authority means we can pursue justice for Charles City County victims regardless of where your child’s university is located.

Texas hazing laws are among the nation’s strictest, providing a potent framework for criminal and civil accountability. This robust legal landscape makes Texas an excellent example of strong victim protections, and we leverage these statutes to hold all responsible parties accountable.

The Power of Texas Anti-Hazing Law (Texas Education Code §§ 37.151-37.157)

The State of Texas has unequivocally declared that hazing is illegal, dangerous, and unacceptable. The law provides clear definitions, penalties, and, crucially, removes what is often the defendants’ primary defense.

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Broad and Comprehensive

Texas law defines hazing broadly, encompassing both physical and psychological harm, on or off campus, for any purpose related to joining or maintaining membership in an organization. The definition includes:

• Physical Brutality: Whipping, beating, striking (like the wooden paddles in the Bermudez case), branding, electronic shocking, placing harmful substances on the body.
• Harmful Activities: Sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements (like being forced outside in underwear and sprayed with a hose), confinement, extreme calisthenics (like the 500 squats and 100 push-ups that caused Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis), or any activity subjecting a student to unreasonable risk of harm or adversely affecting their mental or physical health.
• Forced Consumption: Requiring the consumption of food, liquid, alcohol (in amounts causing intoxication), drugs, or other substances leading to unreasonable risk or harm. This directly covers the forced eating until vomiting that Leonel experienced.
• Violation of Penal Code: Any activity that forces a student to violate criminal law.
• Coercion to Consume Drugs or Alcohol: Specifically addressing the coercive nature of forced drinking or drug use.

Charles City County Application: While Virginia has its own anti-hazing laws, the specific acts Leonel Bermudez suffered—waterboarding, extreme physical exertion, forced eating—would violate hazing statutes in almost any state. Our firm’s expertise lies in demonstrating how these acts meet the legal definition of hazing, even if state statutes differ slightly in wording.

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Real Jail Time for Perpetrators

Texas law imposes serious criminal penalties for hazing, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies:

• Class B Misdemeanor: For engaging in hazing, soliciting, encouraging, or aiding hazing, or even for having firsthand knowledge of hazing and failing to report it. This carries up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes serious bodily injury (such as Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure). This carries up to 1 year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
• State Jail Felony: If hazing causes death. This carries 180 days to 2 years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.

Application to Bermudez Case: Leonel’s profound and life-threatening injuries clearly constitute “serious bodily injury,” meaning those responsible could face Class A Misdemeanor charges, carrying up to a year of jail time. The University of Houston spokesperson even acknowledged “potential criminal charges,” confirming the gravity of the alleged acts.

Organizational Responsibility (§ 37.153): Holding Fraternities Accountable

The law explicitly states that an organization commits an offense if it “condones or encourages hazing” or if its officers, members, pledges, or alumni commit or assist in hazing. Penalties include fines up to $10,000, denial of permission to operate on campus, and forfeiture of property.

Application: This is a crucial aspect of our litigation. The Beta Nu Chapter and the national Pi Kappa Phi organization are directly implicated. The national organization’s knowledge of a “hazing crisis” and its failure to enforce rules make it directly liable under this statute.

CONSENT IS NOT A DEFENSE (§ 37.154): A Game-Changer for Victims

This provision is perhaps the most powerful in Texas hazing law:

“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 critical for Charles City County families to understand. Hazing perpetrators and their institutions often attempt to shift blame to the victim, claiming they “consented,” “knew what they were signing up for,” or “could have left.” Texas law explicitly, unequivocally rejects this argument. You cannot legally consent to being hazed. Your child cannot consent to torture, abuse, or life-threatening injury. This legal shield empowers victims by removing a common and often emotionally manipulative defense.

University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Transparency and Accountability

Universities in Texas are legally mandated to report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days of becoming aware of them. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor. This provision forces transparency and creates a paper trail for investigations.

Civil Liability Beyond Criminal Charges: Why You Can Sue in Charles City County

Beyond these specific hazing statutes, civil law provides numerous avenues for Charles City County families to pursue monetary damages against all responsible parties:

1. Negligence: This is often the broadest claim. It alleges that the university, national fraternity, or individuals owed a duty of care to the student, breached that duty (by hazing or failing to prevent it), and that breach caused the student’s injuries, resulting in damages.
2. Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (like the University of Houston in the Bermudez case), they can be held liable for creating or allowing a dangerous condition to exist on their property.
3. Negligent Supervision: Universities and national organizations have a duty to adequately supervise their chapters and Greek life activities. Their failure to do so, especially when they have prior knowledge of hazing, constitutes negligent supervision.
4. Assault and Battery: Individual perpetrators can be sued for intentional physical harm or offensive contact. Acts like being struck with wooden paddles or waterboarded are clear examples of assault and battery.
5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: This claim applies when the defendants engage in extreme and outrageous conduct that causes severe emotional distress, directly applicable to the psychological torture of hazing.
6. Wrongful Death: If hazing results in a student’s death, families can pursue a wrongful death claim to recover damages for their profound loss.
7. Vicarious Liability: This doctrine holds an entity (like a national fraternity or a university) responsible for the actions of its agents (like a local chapter or its members) when acting within the scope of their relationship.

Charles City County Families: While the specifics of Virginia law may differ from Texas, these general civil liability theories are foundational to American tort law and provide powerful avenues for seeking justice in any state. Our expertise lies in adapting these foundational principles to the unique facts of your child’s hazing case, always with the goal of maximizing your recovery. We are here to ensure that your legal rights are vigorously protected.

Why Attorney911 Is the Choice for Charles City County Hazing Victims

When your child has been subjected to devastating hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the intricate legal landscape, the cultural nuances of Greek life, and how to outmaneuver powerful institutions. Attorney911, led by Ralph P. Manginello and Lupe Eleno Peña, is uniquely positioned to be that advocate for families in Charles City County and across the nation. We bring a blend of battle-tested courtroom experience, invaluable insider knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to our clients that sets us apart.

1. Unmatched Expertise in Hazing Litigation: The Bermudez Case is Our Proof

We aren’t just talking about fighting hazing; we are actively doing it. Our current $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston, centered on the horrific hazing of Leonel Bermudez, is not merely a case on our docket—it is the living embodiment of our firm’s mission.

• Real-time Battle: While other firms might claim expertise, we are in the trenches right now, fighting a landmark hazing case, attracting national media attention. This means we are intimately familiar with the latest tactics used by fraternities and universities, and we are constantly developing cutting-edge strategies to counter them.
• Targeted Experience: Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis cases, exactly the medical injury Leonel Bermudez suffered. This specialized knowledge is crucial in demonstrating expert understanding of the severe bodily harm incurred.
• Proof of Concept: The aggressive, data-driven strategy we are deploying in the Bermudez case is precisely what we will bring to your Charles City County case. We don’t guess who is responsible; we use comprehensive intelligence to identify every liable entity.

2. The “Insurance Counter-Intelligence System”: Former Defense Attorneys on Your Side

Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Eleno Peña are former insurance defense attorneys. This isn’t a coincidence; it’s a strategic advantage for our clients in Charles City County.

• Ralph P. Manginello: With over 25 years of experience, Ralph previously worked on the defense side for insurance companies. He knows their playbook, their strategies to minimize payouts, and their thresholds for settlement. He uses this intimate knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize your recovery.
• Lupe Eleno Peña: Lupe gained his insider perspective at Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm. He understands firsthand how large insurance carriers value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to delay or deny payouts. Now, he uses that “battlefield intelligence” to fight for victims.
• Your Unfair Advantage: When a national fraternity or a major university faces a hazing lawsuit, their primary line of defense is their insurance carrier. Our attorneys know exactly how these carriers operate, what evidence they prioritize, and how to force them to the negotiating table with a fair offer. This translates to higher leverage and better outcomes for Charles City County families.

3. Federal Court Authority & Dual-State Bar Licenses: Nationwide Reach for Charles City County

Hazing is a national problem, and national fraternities operate across state lines. Your Charles City County case might involve a national organization headquartered in another state, or a university in a different jurisdiction. Our firm is equipped for this complexity.

• Federal Court Admissions: Both Ralph and Lupe are admitted to the United States District Court, Southern District of Texas, providing us with federal litigation authority. This means we can often pursue cases in federal courts, which can bypass certain state-specific limitations and allow for broader discovery. We can apply this authority to hazing cases anywhere in the country, including Charles City County and beyond.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses (Texas & New York): Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas and New York. This dual licensure provides a significant strategic advantage, especially when dealing with national organizations that may have ties to New York, or if a Charles City County victim attended a university in New York. We navigate complex multistate litigation with ease.
• Willingness to Travel: Distance is not a barrier to justice. We will travel to Charles City County for depositions, client meetings, and trials as needed, ensuring you have face-to-face support. Our remote consultation technology also allows Charles City County families to connect with us from the comfort of their home.

4. Experience in High-Stakes, Complex Litigation: We Take on Giants

Our firm has a proven track record of handling massive, complicated cases against powerful corporate defendants.

• BP Texas City Explosion Litigation (2005): Ralph Manginello was involved in the multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP after the refinery explosion that killed 15 and injured 180+. This experience demonstrates our capacity to tackle complex, high-stakes litigation against even the largest corporate and institutional defendants. The same skills are directly applicable to holding universities and national fraternities accountable.
• Multi-Million Dollar Recoveries: We have recovered millions of dollars for clients in various personal injury cases, from trucking accidents to wrongful death claims. This proves our ability to secure substantial compensation for complex injuries.

5. Compassionate, Client-Centered Approach: You Are Family

We know that behind every hazing case is a family in crisis. Our approach is always empathetic, warm, and parent-facing, prioritizing your well-being while relentlessly pursuing justice.

• “They treat you like family”: Our client testimonials consistently highlight our firm’s compassionate and communicative approach. “You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such,” as one client put it. This philosophy extends to every Charles City County family we serve.
• Bilingual Services (Se Habla Español): Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, ensuring that Hispanic families in Charles City County and across Texas can access legal representation without language barriers.
• No Upfront Costs (Contingency Fee): We take all hazing cases on a contingency basis. This means Charles City County families pay absolutely $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless and until you get paid. This removes financial barriers and aligns our interests directly with yours.

6. Relentless Pursuit of Justice: No Stone Unturned

We don’t just follow the law; we write the book on aggressive hazing litigation.

• Data-Driven Investigations: We maintain one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations in Texas, including IRS EINs, legal names, and addresses. When hazing happens, we already know who to sue and how to find their assets, ensuring no entity can hide.
• Journalism Background: Ralph Manginello’s journalism degree from the University of Texas at Austin trained him to investigate, uncover facts, and tell compelling stories. This is invaluable in hazing cases, where institutions often attempt to conceal the truth.
• Hall of Fame Athlete & Youth Coach: Ralph’s background as a Hall of Fame athlete and youth coach gives him unique insight into team dynamics, youth culture, and the pressures that can lead to hazing, enhancing our ability to understand and explain the context of these incidents.

For Charles City County families, choosing Attorney911 means choosing a firm that is not only highly skilled and experienced but also deeply invested in ending the scourge of hazing. We are not theoretical; we are actively fighting, we are winning, and we are ready to fight for you. Call us now.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Charles City County Hazing Victims

If you or your child in Charles City County has been affected by hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. While the emotional toll can be overwhelming, quick and decisive action can dramatically impact the strength and success of a future legal claim. We understand that you may be scared, confused, or even angry, but acting now is essential to preserving your rights and building a powerful case. Remember, Attorney911 is here to guide you through every step.

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Attention

Your safety and well-being, or that of your child, must be the absolute priority.

• Remove Yourself from Danger: If the hazing or threat of hazing is ongoing, immediately remove yourself or your child from the situation.
• Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if injuries seem minor, or if psychological trauma is the primary concern, consult a medical professional.
  • Go to the ER: For any physical injuries, suspected alcohol poisoning (brown urine indicative of rhabdomyolysis is a medical emergency), head trauma, or sexual assault.
  • See a Doctor or Counselor: For less severe physical symptoms or for immediate psychological support.
  • Document Everything: Ensure all injuries, symptoms, and medical visits are thoroughly documented in your medical records. Explicitly state that the injuries resulted from hazing. This creates a critical paper trail.
  • Call 911 if Necessary: For any life-threatening situation, do not hesitate to call emergency services.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence

The success of a hazing lawsuit often hinges on the quality and quantity of evidence. Fraternities and universities are adept at erasing evidence, so acting quickly is crucial.

• Medical Records: Obtain copies of all hospital records, emergency room visits, doctor’s notes, lab results (especially for blood alcohol content, liver/kidney function, creatine kinase levels for rhabdomyolysis), and psychological counseling records.
• Photos and Videos:
  • Injuries: Take clear, timestamped photos and videos of any physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, swelling) at all stages of healing. If you are hospitalized, have a trusted person photograph you in the hospital bed.
  • Hazing Environment: If safe to do so, document the locations where hazing occurred (fraternity house, off-campus residence, fields, etc.). Look for physical evidence like discarded alcohol containers, defaced property, or any tools used in the hazing.
  • Physical Items: Preserve any items involved in the hazing (e.g., paddles, fanny packs, specific clothing).
• Communications: This is often the “smoking gun” in hazing cases.
  • Text Messages, GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, Emails: Screenshot EVERYTHING. Preserve all communications related to pledge activities, instructions, threats, dates, times, and locations. Do not delete anything, even if it seems irrelevant. This includes group chats where hazing was discussed or alluded to.
  • Social Media: Take screenshots of relevant posts, photos, or videos from fraternity/sorority accounts or individual members’ pages. Do not deactivate your own social media, but DO NOT post about the incident.
• Witness Information: Collect the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of anyone who witnessed the hazing, other pledges, sympathetic fraternity members, or individuals who observed your mental or physical state before/after the incident. Their testimony can be invaluable.
• Documents: Save any official documents related to the organization (pledge manuals, schedules, rules, recruitment materials, codes of conduct).
• Financial Records: Keep track of all medical bills, receipts for medications, travel expenses for treatment, tuition payments, and any lost wages or income.
• Academic Records: Document any impact on grades, enrollment status, or scholarship eligibility.

Step 3: Avoid Common Mistakes

In the aftermath of trauma, it’s easy to make missteps that can jeopardize your case.

• DO NOT Delete Anything: Deleting messages or social media posts can be considered spoliation of evidence and severely damage your claim.
• DO NOT Communicate with the Perpetrators: Avoid contact with fraternity/sorority members, their leadership, or alumni. They may try to intimidate you, coordinate their stories, or pressure you to recant.
• DO NOT Speak to the University or National Organization Alone: If university administrators or national fraternity representatives contact you, do not give any statements or sign any documents without legal counsel present. They are not on your side; their priority is to protect the institution.
• DO NOT Post on Social Media About the Incident: Anything you post can and will be used against you by the defense to undermine your credibility or severity of injuries. Your social media presence must be meticulously managed.
• DO NOT Admit Fault or Apologize: You are the victim. Do not accept blame or minimize what happened.
• DO NOT Delay Seeking Legal Counsel: The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in most states, including Texas, is TWO YEARS from the date of injury (or death for wrongful death). While this may sound like a long time, evidence disappears rapidly, memories fade, and critical deadlines can be missed. Our rapid filing of Leonel Bermudez’s lawsuit, just weeks after his hospitalization, demonstrates the urgency required.

Step 4: Contact Attorney911 Immediately for a Free Consultation

This is the most crucial step. You do not have to navigate this overwhelming situation alone.

• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7): Our helpline is available around the clock. The consultation is free, confidential, and places you under no obligation.
• Email: You can reach Ralph Manginello directly at ralph@atty911.com.
• Video Consultation: For Charles City County families, or those anywhere in Virginia or across the nation, we offer convenient and secure video consultations. You don’t need to travel to our offices to get expert legal advice.
• We Come to You: If needed, our attorneys will travel to Charles City County for depositions, client meetings, or trials. Distance will not be a barrier to justice.

How We Can Help You Right Now

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation: We will help you secure critical evidence before it disappears or is destroyed by the defendants.
2. Expert Guidance: We provide clear, actionable advice on who to talk to (and who not to), what to do next, and how to navigate preliminary investigations by the university or law enforcement.
3. Protection from Intimidation: Once you retain us, all communications from the fraternity, university, or their legal teams will be directed to us, shielding you from further harassment or manipulation.
4. Case Evaluation: We will thoroughly evaluate the specifics of your child’s hazing incident, identify all potential defendants, and outline the strongest legal strategy.
5. No Upfront Cost: Remember, we take hazing cases on contingency. You pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case.

Charles City County families, this isn’t just about recovering compensation; it’s about forcing change and preventing future tragedies. Your courage in coming forward can save lives. Call us today. Enough is enough.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Starts Here, for Charles City County and Beyond

If you or your child in Charles City County has been tragically impacted by hazing, you are facing a legal emergency. A normal life was abruptly stolen, replaced by trauma, pain, and fear. You need immediate, aggressive, and professional help. Attorney911 is your first responder to this crisis, ready to fight for the justice and accountability you deserve.

Our relentless pursuit of justice for Leonel Bermudez in Houston, a $10 million fight against a national fraternity and a major university, is not just a testament to our capabilities; it is a promise of the same unwavering dedication we will bring to your hazing case, no matter where it occurred, including Charles City County.

Your Direct Line to Justice: Call Us 24/7

We understand that hazing emergencies don’t adhere to business hours. That’s why our team is available around the clock, ready to listen, advise, and act swiftly.

📞 IMMEDIATE HELP: 1-888-ATTY-911

This toll-free number connects you directly to our team, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Don’t hesitate. The sooner you call, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights and preserving critical evidence.

Beyond the Phone Call: Connect with Us

• Email Ralph Manginello Directly: For confidential inquiries, you can reach our managing partner at ralph@atty911.com.
• Visit Our Website: Learn more about our practice, our team, and our commitment to victims at attorney911.com.
• Our Offices: While we are headquartered in Houston with additional offices in Austin and Beaumont, Texas, our reach extends nationwide. We regularly represent clients across the country and will travel to Charles City County for depositions, meetings, and trials when necessary. Distance is never a barrier to pursuing justice.

Your Consultation is FREE. Zero Upfront Costs for Charles City County Families.

We know that the financial burden of a hazing incident – medical bills, therapy, lost academic opportunities – can be immense. The idea of adding legal fees on top of that can be daunting. We eliminate this concern:

• Contingency Fee Basis: We take hazing cases on a contingency fee. This means you pay absolutely $0 upfront to hire us. We only get paid if, and when, we secure compensation for you through a settlement or a verdict. Your financial situation will never prevent you from accessing expert legal representation.
• No Win, No Fee: If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing for our attorney fees. We assume all the financial risk, allowing you to focus on healing while we focus on fighting.

What to Expect When You Contact Attorney911

1. A Compassionate Ear: We begin by listening. We understand the emotional pain and confusion you’re experiencing. Our team will treat you with empathy and respect, allowing you to share your story in a safe, confidential space.
2. Expert Case Evaluation: We will meticulously review the details of your hazing incident, assess the extent of the damages, and identify all potentially liable parties – from individual perpetrators to national organizations and universities.
3. Clear Legal Strategy: We will explain your legal options in plain English, outlining the process, potential timelines, and what we believe can be achieved for your case.
4. Immediate Action Plan: If we take your case, we will initiate an immediate action plan, including sending preservation letters to all potential defendants to prevent evidence destruction – a critical step in hazing cases.
5. Protection and Advocacy: From that moment forward, we become your shield, handling all communications with fraternities, universities, insurance companies, and their legal teams. You can focus on healing and recovery, knowing that a powerful advocate is in your corner.

For Charles City County: You Deserve Aggressive Representation

Whether your child was hazed at a university within Virginia, like Virginia Tech or George Mason University, or attended an out-of-state institution, the fundamental right to safety and freedom from abuse remains. The tactics used by these organizations are national, and so is our ability to fight them. We are prepared to bring our battle-tested strategies, born from cases like Leonel Bermudez’s, to deliver justice for your family in Charles City County.

Don’t let fear, shame, or the perceived power of institutions prevent you from seeking justice. The courage to come forward can not only secure vital compensation for your family but can also be the catalyst for meaningful change, protecting countless other students from similar suffering.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Your fight begins today.