Charlotte County Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $24M Pike Settlements Exposed | Attorney911 — Pi Kappa Phi Shut Down | Federal Court | Former Insurance Defense | 1-888-ATTY-911

If you’re reading this in Charlotte County, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went away to college, full of hopeful dreams, looking forward to new friendships and experiences. Instead, they were tortured. They were abused. They were hazed. We know the fear, the anger, the confusion, and the heartbreak you’re experiencing. We’re here to help families in Charlotte County fight back against the institutions and individuals who betray that trust.

We are Attorney911, and we represent hazing victims and their families across America, including here in Charlotte County. We understand that Charlotte County, nestled within the heart of Virginia, is a place where community values and family connections run deep. We know that families here send their children to colleges and universities across the state and the country, expecting them to be safe, to learn, and to grow. When institutions fail to protect those children, and instead allow them to endure unimaginable abuse, we believe those institutions must be held accountable.

This isn’t a theoretical fight for us. We are actively engaged in a $10 million lawsuit right now against a national fraternity and a major university for the horrific hazing of a young man. The same legal strategies, the same aggressive representation, and the same relentless pursuit of justice that we’re bringing to that case are available to families in Charlotte County. We don’t just talk about hazing; we fight it. We lead with empathy, but we litigate with fury.

The Landmark Case You Need to Know: Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi & University of Houston (2025)

The case of Leonel Bermudez is not just an ongoing lawsuit; it’s a stark warning to parents in Charlotte County about what hazing truly looks like today, and it’s a testament to the aggressive legal action we take on behalf of victims. This happened just weeks ago in Houston, a major city that many Virginia students might aspire to attend a university in, or one with Greek life similar to what your children might encounter closer to home.

In November 2025, we filed a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members in Harris County Civil District Court. Leonel Bermudez was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member who wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet, but planned to transfer. The fraternity subjected him to weeks of systematic abuse, including unimaginable acts of physical and psychological torture.

Here’s what our client, Leonel Bermudez, endured:

• Waterboarding with a Garden Hose: He was sprayed in the face with a garden hose while doing calisthenics, simulating drowning. This is a form of torture, not a prank.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited, then forced to continue running sprints while clearly in distress and left to lie in his own vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: He was subjected to 100+ pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and repeated 100-yard crawls until his muscles broke down and he could not stand without help.
• Being Struck with Wooden Paddles: He was physically beaten with wooden paddles.
• Psychological Torture: He was forced to carry a fanny pack with sexually explicit objects, stripped to his underwear in cold weather, sleep-deprived, and threatened with physical punishment or expulsion if he didn’t comply. We also uncovered an incident where another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.

The consequences were devastating. Leonel’s mother rushed him to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He spent four days hospitalized, passing brown urine due to muscle breakdown. He still faces the ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. His experience reveals the terrifying reality of modern hazing. As Ralph Manginello told ABC13, “When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure.”

The Institutions’ Response – A Glimpse into Their Prioritizing Reputation Over Safety:

• Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters closed its Beta Nu Chapter at UH effective November 14, 2025 – just seven days before we filed our lawsuit. Their statement on their website admits “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards” but then states, “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time.” This shows a lack of remorse and a readiness to resume operations after public scrutiny dies down.
• A University of Houston spokesperson acknowledged to Houston Public Media that “The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards,” and mentioned “potential criminal charges” for those responsible. While this sounds strong, it’s reactive, not proactive, and came only after the hazing was exposed.

Why this case matters deeply to Charlotte County families:

• Hazing Knows No Borders: The same national fraternities, including Pi Kappa Phi, have chapters at universities throughout Virginia and across the country. The “traditions” that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez are happening elsewhere, perhaps even at institutions where Charlotte County students are pursuing their education.
• University Accountability: Universities, whether nestled in rural Virginia or major metropolitan areas, have a duty to protect their students. The University of Houston owned the very fraternity house where some of this hazing occurred. If a university near Charlotte County owns or controls the property where hazing takes place, they hold significant liability.
• The Power of Legal Action: Our firm’s immediate and aggressive lawsuit forced the fraternity to shut down their chapter within weeks of the hazing being reported. This demonstrates that legal action can and does bring immediate consequences. As Lupe Pena emphasized to ABC13, “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 understand that seeing news of such extreme hazing can be terrifying for any parent, especially for those in Charlotte County whose children might be away at college. We want you to know that we are equipped and committed to bringing the same fight, the same expertise, and the same relentless pursuit of justice to any hazing victim’s family in Charlotte County.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes and into the Shadows

When families in Charlotte County hear the word “hazing,” they might conjure images of harmless pranks or mild inconveniences from movies. But the reality is far darker. Hazing has evolved into systematic abuse, physical torture, and psychological manipulation that leaves lasting scars on its victims, both visible and invisible. It’s not “boys being boys”; it’s a severe betrayal of trust, often with life-threatening consequences.

Types of Hazing We See Today:

• Extreme Physical Abuse: This isn’t just push-ups. It involves forced calisthenics to the point of collapse, beatings with paddles or other objects, branding, burning, sleep deprivation that leads to exhaustion and dangerous accidents, and exposure to extreme elements like cold weather without proper clothing. Leonel Bermudez performing 500 squats and being struck with wooden paddles demonstrates this level of physical torture.
• Forced Consumption: A common and deadly hazing ritual involves forced consumption of alcohol, often to the point of binge drinking or alcohol poisoning. But it extends to non-alcoholic substances too, like excessive amounts of milk and food, often until the victim vomits. The ingestion of foreign or dangerous substances is also part of this cruel category. Leonel was forced to eat until he vomited, showcasing this dangerous practice.
• Waterboarding and Simulated Drowning: As seen in our landmark Bermudez case, simulated waterboarding with a garden hose is a horrific act of psychological and physical terror. It’s a form of torture that creates an intense fear of death and leaves profound trauma.
• Hog-Tying and Confinement: Binding individuals, especially in degrading positions or for extended periods, is a form of physical abuse and false imprisonment. Our lawsuit details an incident where another pledge was hog-tied, face-down, with an object in his mouth for over an hour.
• Psychological Torture and Humiliation: This is often the most insidious form of hazing, leaving deep, long-lasting emotional and mental scars. It includes verbal abuse, threats, isolation, forced degrading acts like carrying sexually explicit objects (as Leonel was forced to do), public humiliation, and constant manipulation that erodes a victim’s self-worth and autonomy.
• Sexual Harassment and Assault: This is a terrifying and growing problem in hazing. Forced nudity, sexually explicit acts, or even full sexual assault occur under the guise of “initiation” or “brotherhood,” leaving victims with lifelong trauma.
• Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to stay awake for extended periods, disrupting their sleep cycles through late-night activities, or making them perform tasks during early morning hours leads to severe exhaustion. This impairs judgment, increases vulnerability, and can lead to dangerous accidents. Leonel was made to drive fraternity members in the early morning hours, leading to his exhaustion.
• Servitude and Dehumanization: Pledges are often forced to act as personal servants to older members, performing humiliating tasks, running errands, or cleaning up after them. This strips away their dignity and reinforces a power imbalance.

The Medical Consequences are Severe and Real:

The types of hazing described above don’t just cause temporary discomfort; they can lead to catastrophic injuries or death.

• Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure: This is what Leonel Bermudez suffered. Extreme physical exertion breaks down muscle tissue, releasing toxins into the bloodstream that can cause acute kidney failure, permanent kidney damage, and even death. The brown urine Leonel passed was a terrifying indicator of this life-threatening condition.
• Alcohol Poisoning: Forced binge drinking is a leading cause of hazing deaths. Alcohol poisoning can shut down vital organs, lead to respiratory arrest, and cause permanent brain damage.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From falls, beatings, or being forced to hit one’s head, TBIs can result in permanent cognitive impairment, memory loss, and personality changes.
• Hypothermia and Heatstroke: Exposure to extreme weather conditions, either cold or heat, without proper clothing or hydration can be deadly.
• Spinal Cord Injuries and Broken Bones: Direct physical abuse or falls during hazing can lead to debilitating and permanent injuries.
• Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, hazing leaves deep psychological wounds. Victims often suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and difficulty forming trusting relationships. These invisible wounds can impact a victim’s life for decades.
• Sexual Trauma: Victims of sexual hazing often experience profound shame, guilt, and emotional distress, sometimes leading to lifelong battles with anxiety, depression, and difficulty with intimacy.

This is not a game. This is not tradition. This is a clear and present danger to students in Charlotte County and across the nation. When your child goes off to college, whether it’s closer to home at a Virginia institution or further afield, they deserve to be safe. When they are not, and when institutions permit this abuse, we stand ready to fight for them.

Who Is Responsible? Holding Every Liable Party Accountable

One of the most insidious aspects of hazing is the circle of complicity that often surrounds it. From the individuals directly involved to the institutions that enable such behavior, many parties can and should be held responsible. Our experience shows that accountability must extend beyond the immediate perpetrators to deter future incidents. For families in Charlotte County, understanding all the potential defendants is crucial because it broadens the avenues for justice and ensures that everyone who played a role, directly or indirectly, faces consequences.

In hazing litigation, we meticulously investigate and identify every entity that contributed to the harm, ensuring that victims like Leonel Bermudez and their families can pursue justice against all responsible parties. We don’t just sue the “college kids”; we target the “deep pockets” and the institutional failures that allowed the abuse to flourish.

The Defendants We Target in Hazing Cases:

1. The Local Chapter of the Fraternity or Sorority:

   • Why they’re liable: This is the most direct perpetrator. The local chapter organizes and facilitates the hazing activities. They are typically unincorporated associations, but they still hold shared responsibility among their members and often have local assets.
   • In Bermudez’s case: The Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi directly organized and conducted the waterboarding, physical torture, and other abuses.

2. Individual Members and Officers:

   • Why they’re liable: Every member who actively participates in hazing, or who witnesses it and fails to report or intervene, can be held personally liable. Chapter officers (such as the President, Pledgemaster, and Risk Manager) hold heightened responsibility due to their leadership roles and direct involvement in planning and executing pledge activities.
   • In Bermudez’s case: Our lawsuit explicitly names the Chapter President, the Pledgemaster, and other current and former members who either participated in or facilitated the egregious acts against Leonel. As the Stone Foltz case shows, individual officers can be held personally liable for millions.

3. Former Members and Their Spouses:

   • Why they’re liable: Hazing often occurs off-campus, sometimes at the residences of alumni or former members. These individuals can be held liable under premises liability laws for allowing dangerous activities to occur on their property, or for negligent supervision.
   • In Bermudez’s case: We named a former member and his spouse as defendants because some of the major hazing sessions occurred at their private residence, implicating them for hosting and facilitating the abuse.

4. The National Fraternity or Sorority Organization:

   • Why they’re liable: National organizations, often with 150+ chapters across the country, have a non-delegable duty to oversee and ensure the safety of their local chapters. They are typically well-funded corporations with significant insurance. They can be held liable for:
     • Negligent Supervision: Failing to adequately train, supervise, or monitor local chapters to prevent hazing.
     • Failure to Enforce Policies: Having anti-hazing policies but failing to enforce them effectively.
     • Pattern of Behavior: Knowing about past hazing incidents (like Andrew Coffey’s death in the same fraternity) but failing to take sufficient corrective action.
   • In Bermudez’s case: Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters is a primary defendant. They had actual knowledge of Andrew Coffey’s death in 2017, yet 8 years later, Leonel was hospitalized from similar abuse. KHOU 11 reported allegations that the national organization “failed to enforce anti-hazing rules and policies despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'”

5. The University or College:

   • Why they’re liable: Universities have a comprehensive duty to protect their students, extending to activities within recognized student organizations. They can be held liable for:
     • Negligent Supervision: Failing to adequately supervise Greek life, despite knowing of hazing risks (like the 2017 UH hazing hospitalization).
     • Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on university-owned or controlled property (like a fraternity house), the university has a duty to maintain a safe environment.
     • Failure to Intervene: Not taking appropriate action after receiving complaints or warnings about hazing.
     • Breach of Contract: Failing to uphold promises of student safety made in handbooks or enrollment agreements.
   • In Bermudez’s case: The University of Houston and the UH Board of Regents are codefendants. Critically, UH owned the fraternity house where some of the hazing took place, establishing direct premises liability. They also had prior knowledge of serious hazing incidents on their campus in 2017, yet failed to prevent it from happening again.

6. The Fraternity/Sorority Housing Corporation:

   • Why they’re liable: These are separate legal entities that own and manage the physical chapter houses. They have a responsibility to ensure a safe environment on their property and can be held liable for allowing dangerous activities like hazing to occur there.
   • In Bermudez’s case: The Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation is also named, as they controlled the property where egregious hazing occurred.

7. Insurance Carriers:

   • Why they’re liable: While not direct perpetrators of hazing, insurance companies for all the above entities are typically the source of recovery for damages. They hold the “deep pockets” necessary to compensate victims for their extensive medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses.
   • Our expertise: As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena bring invaluable insider knowledge. They know how insurance companies evaluate claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize payouts. This insight is a significant advantage for families in Charlotte County seeking maximum compensation.

For Charlotte County families whose child has been harmed by hazing, this comprehensive approach to identifying and pursuing all liable parties is essential. It ensures that justice is served, that all responsible entities face the consequences, and that a powerful message is sent to prevent future tragedies. Hazing is never a victimless crime, and we are committed to holding everyone accountable.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof for Charlotte County Victims

When a family in Charlotte County faces the devastating reality of a hazing injury or death, a natural question arises: “Can we truly fight back against these powerful fraternities and universities?” The answer is a resounding YES. History, and our current litigation, proves that hazing victims and their families can and do win multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements that bring accountability and drive change. These precedents send an unmistakable message: hazing is incredibly costly, and those who perpetrate or enable it will pay.

Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez stands firmly on the shoulders of these landmark cases. We cite them not just as examples, but as blueprints for the justice we seek for our client, and for hazing victims in Charlotte County.

Here are some of the precedent-setting hazing outcomes:

1. Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): $10.1 Million+ Total Recovery

   • What happened: Stone Foltz was assigned “big brothers” and, as part of a ritual, forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol. He died from alcohol poisoning after being left unresponsive by his fraternity brothers.
   • The Outcome: This case resulted in criminal convictions for multiple fraternity members, and Bowling Green State University paid $2.9 million in settlement. Additionally, Pi Kappa Alpha National and other individuals collectively paid $7.2 million, bringing the total known recovery to over $10.1 million. Most recently, in December 2024, the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was ordered to pay a personal judgment of $6.5 million.
   • Significance for Charlotte County: This case directly supports our $10 million demand. It shows universities pay millions, national fraternities pay millions, and individual orchestrators pay millions. It clearly demonstrates that the costs of hazing are astronomical for ALL involved parties.

2. Maxwell Gruver – Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017): $6.1 Million Jury Verdict

   • What happened: Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, was forced to participate in a hazing ritual called “Bible Study,” where he was made to drink excessive amounts of alcohol for “incorrect” answers. He died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495—six times the legal limit.
   • The Outcome: A civil jury awarded Gruver’s family $6.1 million. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, with some receiving prison sentences. This case also led to the passage of Louisiana’s “Max Gruver Act,” which made hazing a felony offense.
   • Significance for Charlotte County: This verdict is crucial proof that juries are willing to award significant sums in hazing cases, especially when the conduct is egregious and leads to death. The fact that it resulted from a jury trial, not a settlement, highlights the willingness of courts to penalize hazing.

3. Timothy Piazza – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017): $110 Million+ (Estimated Multiple Settlements)

   • What happened: Timothy Piazza was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a “gauntlet” ritual. Highly intoxicated, he fell repeatedly, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911. He died days later. The entire horrific sequence was captured on security cameras.
   • The Outcome: Multiple fraternity members were charged with serious crimes, including involuntary manslaughter. Penn State and the national Beta Theta Pi organization reached confidential settlements estimated to be over $110 million. Pennsylvania subsequently passed the “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.”
   • Significance for Charlotte County: When evidence is strong and the conduct is captured on video, the financial and legal consequences for hazing can be astronomical. This case demonstrates the immense stakes and severe penalties institutions face.

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

   • What happened: Andrew Coffey died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” ritual.
   • The Outcome: Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the chapter was permanently closed at FSU. His family reached a confidential settlement with the fraternity.
   • Significance for Charlotte County: THIS WAS THE SAME FRATERNITY AS LEONEL BERMUDEZ. Pi Kappa Phi National had eight years between Andrew Coffey’s death and Leonel Bermudez’s hospitalization to curb its deadly hazing culture. Andrew Coffey’s death is powerful pattern evidence that Pi Kappa Phi National had actual knowledge of dangerous hazing within its chapters and failed to act.

5. Adam Oakes – Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021): $4 Million+ Settlement

   • What happened: Adam Oakes died from alcohol poisoning after a Delta Chi hazing event at VCU.
   • The Outcome: His family filed a $28 million lawsuit, which settled for over $4 million in October 2024. This included a cash settlement and a donation to the “Love Like Adam” Foundation, which works to combat hazing. Virginia also passed “Adam’s Law.”
   • Significance for Charlotte County: A recent settlement for a high amount, demonstrating that hazing litigation continues to be successful for victims.

The Power of Precedent for Charlotte County Families:

These cases, representing a collective total of over $136 million in documented awards, prove several critical points for Charlotte County families:

• Your Case Can Win Big: Our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez, who survived but faces permanent health consequences, is well within the range of established precedent for hazing cases.
• Universities and National Organizations Are NOT Immune: These cases show that both educational institutions and national Greek organizations are held financially responsible for their failures.
• Individuals Are Liable: The $6.5 million judgment against an individual officer underscores that personal accountability is real.
• Justice Drives Legislative Change: Many of these cases directly led to new anti-hazing laws, highlighting the societal impact of fighting for justice.
• The Same Fraternities, The Same Danger: When cases involve organizations like Pi Kappa Phi, which has a documented history of deadly hazing, it strengthens the argument for gross negligence and punitive damages.

For families in Charlotte County, facing institutions with seemingly limitless resources can be daunting. But we want you to understand that we draw on these hard-won victories to build our cases. We leverage this history to demonstrate pattern, foreseeability, and severe institutional failure. When we say we will fight for your child’s justice, we do so with a proven track record against the very same types of defendants.

Texas Law Protects You, Charlotte County: Consent Is Never a Defense

For families in Charlotte County grappling with the trauma of hazing, understanding the legal landscape is crucial. While our firm is based in Texas, where we’re actively litigating the Bermudez case, most states, including Virginia, have strong anti-hazing laws, and fundamental civil liability principles apply nationwide. One of the single most important legal protections for hazing victims is often a major surprise to parents and even some legal professionals: consent is never a defense to hazing. This means that no matter what coercion or pressure your child experienced, they cannot legally “agree” to be victimized by hazing.

Texas Hazing Laws (Education Code § 37.151-37.157): A Model for Accountability

Texas has some of the most comprehensive anti-hazing laws in the nation, providing a robust framework for both criminal prosecution and civil liability. These laws underpin our aggressive approach in cases like Leonel Bermudez’s. Similar statutes exist in most states, including Virginia, and federal civil rights laws also provide avenues for justice, regardless of state lines.

• Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Texas law broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student for the purpose of affiliation or membership, that endangers their mental or physical health or safety. This includes physical brutality (like striking, beating, branding), sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, confinement, calisthenics (like Leonel’s 500 squats), forced consumption of food or alcohol to the point of risk (like Leonel’s forced eating and vomiting), or any activity that violates the Penal Code.
  • Why it matters for Charlotte County: The egregious acts perpetrated against Leonel Bermudez—waterboarding, forced eating, extreme calisthenics, being struck with paddles—are clear violations of this comprehensive definition. Many Virginia hazing statutes mirror these broad definitions.
• Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Hazing is a crime in Texas.
  • Engaging in basic hazing is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 180 days jail).
  • Hazing causing serious bodily injury (like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure) is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail).
  • Hazing causing death is a State Jail Felony (up to 2 years in state jail).
  • Why it matters for Charlotte County: This means that not only are the institutions liable, but the individual perpetrators face potential criminal records and jail time, signaling the severity of these acts. Virginia’s anti-hazing laws, like the “Adam’s Law” passed in 2022, also provide for criminal penalties.
• Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): If an organization condones hazing, or if its members or alumni commit hazing, the organization itself commits an offense. Penalties can include fines and denial of the right to operate on campus.
  • Why it matters for Charlotte County: This directly targets fraternities, sororities, and other student groups, making it clear that the organization, not just individuals, bears responsibility.
• University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Universities in Texas must report hazing incidents to state authorities. Failure to do so is a Class B misdemeanor.
  • Why it matters for Charlotte County: This imposes a legal duty on educational institutions to act transparently, and a failure to report can incur additional liability.

The Unshakable Shield for Victims: Consent Is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154)

This particular statute is a game-changer and a cornerstone of our hazing litigation strategy:

“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 powerful legal principle directly confronts the most common and contemptible defense used by those accused of hazing: “He wanted to be part of the group, so he agreed to it.” “He could have left at any time.” “Everyone went through it, and it’s tradition.”

Our response, rooted in law, is unwavering:

• Coercion Over Consent: In the context of hazing, true, free-willed consent is rarely present. Pledges are often operating under intense peer pressure, eager for acceptance, desperate to belong, and terrified of social ostracism or retaliation if they don’t comply. This atmosphere of duress negates any genuine consent.
• You Cannot Consent to a Crime: Just as you cannot legally consent to be assaulted, beaten, or tortured, you cannot consent to be hazed. Hazing, as defined by law, often involves criminal acts like assault, battery, and reckless endangerment.
• The Law Explicitly Removes This Defense: The Texas Legislature explicitly anticipated and preempted this defense, ensuring that perpetrators cannot evade justice by blaming their victims. This legal stance is increasingly adopted in other states trying to curb hazing.

Charlotte County Families, Your Rights Are Strong:

Even if your child attending a university in Virginia or another state could argue they “consented” to an activity, that argument falls apart in the face of modern anti-hazing laws. The law recognizes the inherent power imbalance and coercion involved.

Our firm leverages these legal protections to dismantle the defenses of fraternities, universities, and individuals. We ensure that our clients’ perceived “consent” is never used to minimize the severity of the abuse they endured or to absolve perpetrators of responsibility. For families in Charlotte County, knowing this vital legal fact can be empowering, signaling that the legal system is indeed on your side when your child is victimized by hazing.

Why Attorney911: Your Charlotte County Hazing Litigation Experts

When your family in Charlotte County is facing the aftermath of a hazing incident, choosing the right legal representation is one of the most critical decisions you will make. You need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the nuances of hazing litigation, who isn’t afraid to take on powerful institutions, and who truly cares about seeking justice for your child. We are Attorney911, and we believe we are that firm.

While our primary offices are based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our commitment to hazing victims extends nationwide. We regularly represent clients across the country, leveraging our unique advantages to ensure that families in Charlotte County receive the aggressive, expert-level representation they deserve.

Our Core Strengths That Benefit Charlotte County Hazing Victims:

1. Currently Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit: We aren’t just reading about hazing; we’re actively fighting it in court right now. The Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case is our flagship litigation, demonstrating our expertise in handling complex hazing cases against national fraternities and major universities. This isn’t theoretical; it’s active. This means we have up-to-the-minute knowledge of legal strategies, defense tactics, and damage valuation in a real-world hazing scenario. We are bringing the same aggressive, data-driven approach to every family in Charlotte County.

2. Unmatched Insider Knowledge: Former Insurance Defense Attorneys: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena spent significant parts of their careers working for the other side – defending insurance companies and corporations. This isn’t just a credential; it’s a strategic weapon.

   • What this means for Charlotte County: We know their playbook. We understand how they evaluate claims, how they build their defenses, and how they strategize to minimize payouts. This insider perspective allows us to anticipate their moves, dismantle their arguments, and negotiate from a position of strength, maximizing your child’s recovery. Lupe Peña, coming from a national defense firm like Litchfield Cavo LLP, understands the intricate defense strategies employed by large institutions, making him an invaluable asset in taking on universities and national fraternities.

3. Nationwide Reach and Federal Court Authority: Hazing often involves national fraternities and students attending out-of-state universities.

   • What this means for Charlotte County: Even if your child was hazed at a university outside of Virginia, or if the national fraternity is based outside the state, our federal court admissions (including the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) and Ralph Manginello’s dual-state bar license (Texas and New York) allow us to pursue federal civil rights claims and litigate cases in federal courts across the country. Distance is not a barrier to justice for us.

4. Experience Against Massive Corporate Defendants: Ralph Manginello’s involvement in the multi-billion dollar BP Texas City Explosion litigation demonstrates our capacity to take on powerful, well-resourced corporate defendants.

   • What this means for Charlotte County: National fraternities and universities are often massive organizations with deep pockets and aggressive legal teams. Our experience against industry giants proves we have the legal firepower, resources, and strategic acumen to fight and win against any opponent, no matter how large.

5. Expertise in Hazing-Specific Injuries, Including Rhabdomyolysis: Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. This is a severe and often under-recognized hazing injury that Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in litigating.

   • What this means for Charlotte County: We understand the complex medical aspects of hazing injuries, from severe muscle breakdown to traumatic brain injuries, alcohol poisoning, and deep psychological trauma. We work with top medical experts to fully articulate the long-term impact and costs of these devastating injuries.

6. Data-Driven Litigation Strategy: Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine: We don’t guess who is responsible; we know. We maintain one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations in Texas, including IRS EINs, legal names, addresses, and corporate structures.

   • What this means for Charlotte County: When hazing happens, we can quickly identify every entity behind the Greek letters—from the local chapter’s housing corporation to the national headquarters—so we know exactly who to sue. This intelligence gives us a critical head start and a distinct advantage. Pi Kappa Phi’s own housing corporation in Frisco, Texas, for example, is part of this database.

7. Empathetic, Parent-Facing Approach with Relentless Advocacy: We understand that you are not just a “case file.” You are a worried parent, a traumatized victim, a grieving family.

   • What this means for Charlotte County: We approach every case with genuine compassion, guiding you through the complex legal process with clear communication, respect, and unwavering support. We treat Charlotte County families like our own. However, this warmth is balanced with aggressive, uncompromising advocacy when dealing with the defendants. As Ralph’s clients testify: “He is a true PITT BULL and fighter. He don’t play!”

8. No Upfront Cost: Contingency Fee Basis: We take hazing cases on contingency.

   • What this means for Charlotte County: You pay absolutely nothing upfront. We cover all litigation costs. You only pay us if and when we win your case. This removes the financial burden and risk from you and ensures that justice is accessible regardless of your family’s financial situation.

9. Bilingual Legal Services: Se Habla Español: We proudly offer comprehensive legal services in Spanish.

   • What this means for Charlotte County: For Hispanic families in Charlotte County, or any Spanish-speaking individuals affected by hazing, we can navigate language barriers to ensure clear communication and full access to justice.

For Charlotte County families who are grappling with the unthinkable, choosing Attorney911 means choosing a legal partner who is not only equipped with unparalleled legal expertise and resources but is also deeply invested in the fight against hazing. We are not hypothetical; we are actively fighting these battles today, and we are ready to fight for you.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Guidance for Charlotte County Hazing Victims

If your child in Charlotte County has been harmed by hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. We understand that this is an incredibly stressful and confusing time, filled with fear, anger, and uncertainty. But acting quickly and deliberately can profoundly impact the strength and outcome of a legal case. We are here to provide clear, actionable steps that any parent in Charlotte County can follow, even at 2 AM.

Remember, the institutions responsible for hazing—the fraternities, sororities, and universities—will immediately begin protecting themselves and minimizing their liability. You need to start protecting your rights and your child’s right to justice just as quickly.

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Care

• Remove Your Child from Harm’s Way: If hazing is ongoing or your child is still in a dangerous environment, get them out immediately. Your child’s safety is paramount.
• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor or unapparent, get your child to a doctor, emergency room, or urgent care clinic right away. Some severe injuries, like rhabdomyolysis or internal injuries, can manifest hours or days later. Pain and psychological trauma can be masked by adrenaline. Delays in seeking treatment can be used by defense attorneys to argue that the injuries were not severe or not caused by the hazing.
  • Crucial Documentation: Ensure that the medical staff documents everything your child reports about the hazing incident, the timeline of events, and all physical and psychological symptoms. This immediate medical record is vital evidence.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence—Everything is a Clue

• Photos and Videos:
  • Injuries: Take clear photos and videos of all injuries—bruises, cuts, burns, swelling, skin discoloration (like the brown urine from rhabdomyolysis)—as they appear and throughout the healing process. Document changes over time.
  • Hazing Locations: If safe to do so, photograph the environment where hazing occurred (e.g., fraternity house, off-campus residence, specific room, outdoor location).
  • Physical Evidence: Capture anything used in the hazing: bottles, paddles, ropes, obscure objects, trash containing evidence (like vomit-soaked items).
• Digital Communications: SAVE ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING.
  • Text Messages: All texts related to hazing—instructions, threats, schedules, comments from members, discussions among pledges. DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING. Screenshot entire conversations, including dates and times.
  • GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook: Preserve DMs, group chats, stories, posts, location tags, and any content related to the fraternity/sorority or hazing activities. Archive or download data if possible. These platforms are often used for coordination and communication among members.
  • Emails: Save any emails from the fraternity/sorority, university, or individual members related to the pledge process or hazing.
• Witness Information: Collect names, phone numbers, and any identifying information for other pledges, fraternity/sorority members, or bystanders who witnessed the hazing. Their testimony can be invaluable.
• Documents: Keep all physical documents related to the pledge process: pledge manuals, schedules, rules, recruitment materials, codes of conduct, or written policies from the organization or university.
• Financial Records: Collect medical bills, receipts for treatment, and records of any lost wages or academic expenses incurred due to the hazing.
• Academic Records: Gather report cards, enrollment status, and any documentation showing a decline in grades or impact on academic standing.

Step 3: What NOT to Do—Protect Your Child’s Case

• DO NOT Delete Anything: Deleting digital evidence can be perceived as spoliation of evidence and severely harm your case.
• DO NOT Speak with the Fraternity/Sorority, University, or Their Lawyers: They are not on your side. They will try to get your child to make statements that can be used against them, minimize the incident, or pressure them into signing documents that waive their rights. Refer all inquiries to your attorney.
• DO NOT Post on Social Media: Anything your child posts—about the incident, about other students, or even just looking “fine” at a party—can be taken out of context and used by defense attorneys to discredit their claims or minimize their injuries. Stay off social media completely until your case is resolved.
• DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents from the fraternity, sorority, or university without consulting with an attorney first. These documents often include waivers of liability or settlement offers that are far below what your child deserves.
• DO NOT Confront Perpetrators: This can escalate the situation, create more danger, and may be used against your child.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Hazing Litigation Attorney Immediately

• Time is of the Essence: In most states, including Virginia, there is a statute of limitations (typically two years) from the date of injury or death to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to pursue legal action forever. Evidence also disappears quickly, and memories fade.
• Free and Confidential Consultation: We offer free, confidential consultations for families in Charlotte County. You can call us 24/7. We will evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the next steps without any cost or obligation.
• Why an Attorney is Essential:
  • Level the Playing Field: You are up against powerful institutions with legal teams, risk managers, and insurance companies. You need experienced advocates who know how to fight them.
  • Insider Knowledge: Our firm’s attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are former insurance defense lawyers who know exactly how the other side thinks and strategizes.
  • Evidence Collection: We will immediately issue preservation letters, subpoena crucial records, and gather all necessary evidence to build a compelling case.
  • Protect Your Rights: We will handle all communications with the opposing parties, ensuring your child’s rights are protected and they are not manipulated.

Charlotte County Families, Act Now for Justice:

Your child deserves justice. You deserve answers. We are well-versed in the tactics employed by fraternities and universities, and we are prepared to fight tirelessly for maximum compensation. The Bermudez case is proof that we are not hypothetical; we are actively fighting these battles today.

Call us. Let us be your first responders to this legal emergency.

Texas Law Protects You: Consent is Never a Defense (Reiteration for Emphasis)

We want to emphatically reiterate a crucial point for Charlotte County families: under Texas law, and increasingly in other states like Virginia, consent is NOT a defense to hazing. This is codified in Texas Education Code § 37.154, which states: “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 vital because fraternities, universities, and individual perpetrators will often try to justify their actions by claiming the victim “voluntarily participated” or “knew what they were signing up for.” This argument is legally invalid. Real consent cannot exist in an environment of coercion, peer pressure, fear of exclusion, psychological manipulation, or threats of retaliation—all hallmarks of hazing. You cannot legally consent to be assaulted, beaten, waterboarded, or recklessly endangered. The law correctly recognizes this power imbalance and the inherent illegality of hazing activities.

For victims in Charlotte County, this means you can pursue justice knowing that the law is on your side, regardless of any claims that your child “went along with it.” It empowers victims and their families to understand that the blame lies squarely with the perpetrators and the institutions that allowed the abuse to occur.

Contact Us: Your Charlotte County Hazing Legal Team is Ready

If your child in Charlotte County or anywhere in the nation has been a victim of hazing, you are facing a terrifying and deeply emotional situation. You are not alone. We are Attorney911, and we are here to help. We are actively fighting against hazing right now, and we bring that same aggressive, empathetic, and data-driven approach to every family we represent, no matter their location.

We understand that Charlotte County families need immediate, expert assistance during such a crisis. We want to be your first call, your trusted partner in seeking justice and holding those responsible accountable.

Charlotte County Families: Your Legal Emergency Hotline

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Call us 24/7 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com

Here’s why Charlotte County families should reach out to us right now:

• You Pay Nothing Upfront: We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay $0 to hire our expert legal team. We cover all the court costs, expert witness fees, and investigation expenses. We only get paid if and when we win your case. This allows you to focus on your child’s recovery without the added financial burden.
• Immediate Action is Critical: The clock starts ticking from the moment of injury. Evidence can disappear, witness memories fade, and critical legal deadlines (like the two-year statute of limitations in most states) can pass. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can secure crucial evidence, protect your legal rights, and begin building your child’s case.
• We Bring the Fight to Charlotte County: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our dedication to hazing victims knows no geographical boundaries. We conduct video consultations with families remotely, and our attorneys are prepared to travel to Charlotte County for depositions, client meetings, and trials when necessary. Distance will never be an obstacle to securing justice for your child.
• Unparalleled Expertise Against Powerful Institutions: We are actively taking on a national fraternity and a major university in a $10 million hazing lawsuit right now. We have the experience, the resources, and the insider knowledge (as former insurance defense attorneys) to challenge well-funded legal teams and hold every responsible party accountable. This includes the universities in and around Virginia that many Charlotte County students attend or might attend, such as the University of Richmond, William & Mary, Virginia Tech, James Madison University, or the University of Virginia, all of which have active Greek life organizations.

What to Expect When You Contact Us:

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you will speak with a compassionate and knowledgeable member of our team who understands what you’re going through. Your call will be:

1. Confidential: Everything you share will be kept strictly private.
2. Free: There is no charge for the initial consultation.
3. Comprehensive: We will listen to your story, gather initial details, and discuss your legal options.
4. Empathetic: We understand the emotional toll of hazing and will treat your family with the care and respect you deserve.

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

If you or someone you know was also subjected to the horrific hazing at the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi chapter or any other fraternity, we urge you to come forward. Leonel Bermudez was not an isolated victim. Other pledges collapsed, were hog-tied, and endured unimaginable abuse. Your testimony is vital, not just for your own justice, but to ensure that these perpetrators face the full consequences of their actions. We can protect you, and your information will be kept confidential. As Lupe Pena stated, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Let us fight for you. Let us help you turn your pain into power. Call Attorney911 today. Your call for help will be answered.