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

Hazing is a pervasive, dangerous, and often deadly practice that continues to plague colleges and universities across America, including those where students from City of Danville attend. It shatters dreams, inflicts severe physical and psychological trauma, and, tragically, sometimes takes innocent lives. For families in City of Danville, the distant promise of a vibrant college experience can quickly turn into a nightmare when their child becomes a victim of senseless hazing rituals.

We understand what you’re going through. The confusion, the anger, the fear for your child’s future. You might feel isolated, overwhelmed, and unsure where to turn. That’s why we’ve committed ourselves to being the fiercest advocates for hazing victims and their families. We offer aggressive, compassionate, and data-driven legal representation, ensuring that every institution and individual responsible for your child’s suffering is held accountable.

We are Attorney 911, and we are actively fighting hazing right now. Our firm, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, is currently battling a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston over a severe hazing incident that hospitalized a young man with kidney failure from forced physical exertion and waterboarding. This case is not just a statistic; it’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to justice for hazing victims, and it is the same fight we will bring to bear for families in City of Danville.

The Hazing Crisis: Why City of Danville Families Need Us

The allure of Greek life, sports teams, and other university organizations remains strong for students graduating from George Washington High School, Galileo Magnet High School, or Tunstall High School in the City of Danville. They leave home, often heading to Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) in Blacksburg, the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, or perhaps venturing further to large state universities or private colleges across the country. They go expecting to build lasting friendships, develop leadership skills, and create cherished memories. Instead, for far too many, this experience is marred by brutal and demeaning hazing.

Hazing is not a harmless tradition. It is a deeply disturbing pattern of abuse that can involve physical brutality, forced consumption of dangerous substances, psychological torment, sleep deprivation, and sexual violence. The consequences are dire, ranging from lifelong emotional scars to catastrophic injuries and even death. In the close-knit community of City of Danville, where trust and family values are deeply cherished, the betrayal of that trust by institutions meant to protect young adults is particularly devastating.

While Virginia has a specific hazing law, like many states, the enforcement and prevention efforts often fall short. Universities, national Greek organizations, and local chapters often prioritize their reputation and perceived “traditions” over the safety and well-being of their students. This leads to a culture of silence, cover-ups, and a terrifying cycle of abuse that continues unchecked until a tragedy occurs.

For parents in City of Danville, knowing that their child could be vulnerable to such practices is terrifying. We want you to know that you are not alone, and you do not have to fight this battle by yourselves. We have the experience, the resources, and the relentless dedication to pursue justice for your child, no matter where the hazing took place.

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

City of Danville Families: This Is What Hazing Looks Like. This Is What We Do About It.

This case happened in Houston, Texas, a major metropolitan hub just like the cities many City of Danville students venture to for their higher education. But the same hazing tactics, the same national fraternities, and the same institutional negligence exist at universities across Virginia and the entire nation. We aggressively represent families from City of Danville with the same dedication we bring to this ongoing fight.

BREAKING: Our Attorneys Are Fighting This Battle Right Now

Our team at Attorney 911 is currently engaged in a $10 million lawsuit filed in November 2025 in Harris County Civil District Court against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members. This case is a stark reminder of the brutal reality of hazing and our commitment to holding every responsible party accountable.

Media Coverage of the Case:

• ABC13 Houston: Reported on November 21, 2025, that “Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges.” Read the full story here.
• KHOU 11: Covered the lawsuit on November 21, 2025, under the headline “$10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations.” See the report here.
• Houston Chronicle: Published their coverage on November 22, 2025, detailing the “UH fraternity hazing lawsuit.”
• Houston Public Media: Revealed the $10 million figure and additional hazing details on November 24, 2025, reporting on “University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing.”

Defendant’s Own Admission:

• Pi Kappa Phi National: In a statement issued on November 21, 2025, directly following the exposure of the hazing allegations, Pi Kappa Phi announced it had already “closed its Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston” effective November 14, 2025. This preemptive closure speaks volumes. Read their full statement here.

The Plaintiff: Leonel Bermudez and His Harrowing Story

Our client, Leonel Bermudez, was a “ghost rush” – a prospective member who wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet, though he planned to transfer for the upcoming semester. Despite not being a student, he accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on September 16, 2025. What followed was a weeks-long campaign of systematic abuse, torture, and hazing that left him hospitalized for three nights and four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

This kind of horror isn’t unique to Houston. The same national fraternities that operated at the University of Houston have chapters at Virginia Tech, the University of Virginia, James Madison University, and other colleges and universities students from City of Danville attend. The same “traditions” that hospitalized Leonel can, and do, happen at Greek organizations near you.

As Attorney 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.”

Attorney Lupe Pena, emphasizing the impact this case could have, 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.”

What Happened: The Hazing Timeline and Activities

The hazing of Leonel Bermudez was not a single incident but a sustained campaign of physical and psychological torment:

• September 16, 2025: Leonel accepts a bid to Pi Kappa Phi.
• September 16 – November 3, 2025: Weeks of systematic hazing ensue.
• October 13, 2025: Another pledge is hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.
• October 15, 2025: A different pledge loses consciousness and collapses during a forced workout.
• November 3, 2025: Leonel is subjected to an extreme punishment, including 100+ pushups, 500 squats, and other exercises, while reciting the fraternity creed under threat of expulsion. He becomes so exhausted he cannot stand without help.
• November 4-5, 2025: Leonel’s condition rapidly deteriorates.
• November 6, 2025: His mother rushes him to the hospital, where he is found to be passing brown urine – a classic sign of severe muscle breakdown.
• November 6-10, 2025: Leonel spends four days hospitalized, fighting severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
• November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National officially closes the Beta Nu Chapter.
• November 21, 2025: Our firm files the $10 million lawsuit.

The Banned and Brutal Activities:

• Waterboarding / Simulated Drowning: Leonel was sprayed in the face with a garden hose while doing calisthenics, a practice referred to as “simulated waterboarding” by KHOU and explicitly called a “form of torture” by Houston Public Media. This is not a prank; it is abuse on par with a war crime.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was forced to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited, then made to continue physical exertion while lying in his own vomit.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: This included 100+ pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was struck with wooden paddles and forced to exercise until his muscles physically broke down.
• Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather and carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature. Threats of physical punishment and expulsion for non-compliance maintained a constant state of fear.
• Sleep Deprivation: Forced early morning drives for fraternity members led to dangerous exhaustion.

The Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

Leonel’s body collapsed under the relentless abuse, leading to a severe medical condition known as rhabdomyolysis. This condition involves the breakdown of muscle tissue that releases a damaging protein (myoglobin) into the bloodstream, which then overloads and can destroy the kidneys.

• Symptoms: Critically, Leonel passed “brown urine,” a clear indicator of myoglobin in the urine. He presented with very high creatine kinase levels, confirming extensive muscle damage.
• Diagnosis: He was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis requiring immediate medical intervention to prevent permanent kidney damage or death.
• Hospitalization: He required intensive care for four days.
• Long-Term Risk: He faces a lifelong risk of chronic kidney disease and other complications.

This is the very same medical condition that Attorney Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in litigating, a testament to our firm’s deep understanding of the exact injuries our clients suffer.

Institutional Responses: A Pattern of Negligence and Cover-Up

The responses from both the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters speak volumes about their awareness and attempts to manage liability:

• University of Houston Spokesperson: Houston Public Media reported the university stating, “The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards… any individual found responsible for hazing will face disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion and potential criminal charges.” This is an admission that the conduct was severe, violated their rules, and may even be criminal.
• Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters: Their website announced the closure of the Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025, “following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” They closed the chapter seven days before our lawsuit was filed, strongly suggesting they knew legal action was imminent due to their own internal findings of wrongdoing. Their statement also cynically concluded with, “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time,” indicating a profound lack of remorse and an intention to resume operations after the publicity dies down.

The harsh truth for City of Danville families: These institutions know hazing is happening, they have policies against it, yet they consistently fail to prevent it. Their actions often become aggressive damage control only after severe injuries or deaths expose their negligence.

Why This Case Matters to City of Danville Families

1. Proof That “Tradition” is Torture: Leonel’s story exposes hazing for what it truly is: systematic abuse. The same rituals, disguised as “brotherhood,” are happening at universities where students from City of Danville enroll.
2. Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where much of this hazing occurred. This demonstrates a direct premises liability. Universities near City of Danville, such as Virginia Tech or the University of Virginia, hold similar power and responsibility to regulate Greek life on their campuses and are equally liable when they fail to protect students.
3. National Organizations Are Aware: Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters was quick to act after Leonel’s hospitalization, indicating prior knowledge of hazing risks within their system. The same national Greek organizations operate near City of Danville, meaning their national leadership is aware, or should be aware, of what unfolds in their chapters.
4. Victims Are Intimidated: Leonel fears retribution, a common tactic used to silence victims. We protect our clients and provide a safe avenue for them to seek justice without fear.
5. One Brave Victim Can Protect Others: Every lawsuit like Leonel’s sends a powerful message that can prevent future harm. Your City of Danville child’s case could lead to critical changes and save lives.
6. $10 Million Sends a Message: This significant financial demand is intended to force systemic change, making hazing too expensive for these organizations to ignore. Families in City of Danville deserve the same aggressive pursuit of accountability.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

Many parents in City of Danville might envision hazing as harmless pranks or mild inconveniences, perhaps drawn from movies or outdated campus lore. The reality, as tragically demonstrated in Leonel Bermudez’s case, is far darker and more dangerous. This is not about building character; it is about inflicting physical and psychological harm under the guise of “tradition.”

It Is Not “Boys Being Boys.” It Is:

• Assault and Battery: Direct physical violence, including striking, beating, forced physical exertion, and paddling.
• Torture: Practices like waterboarding, designed to inflict extreme physical and mental suffering.
• Reckless Endangerment: Actions that create a substantial and unjustifiable risk of serious bodily injury or death.
• Psychological Warfare: Systematic humiliation, degradation, and manipulation that can lead to severe mental health crises.
• Sometimes Manslaughter. Sometimes Murder. The ultimate tragic outcome when hazing goes unchecked.

The disturbing statistics underscore the widespread nature of this problem:

• Over half (55%) of students in Greek organizations report experiencing hazing.
• 40% of student athletes also report hazing incidents.
• Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every single year in the United States.
• A shocking 95% of students who are hazed do NOT report it, often due to fear, shame, or loyalty to the group.

This is a crisis that extends far beyond fraternities and sororities, impacting sports teams, marching bands, ROTC programs, and various clubs and student organizations where students from City of Danville participate.

Types of Hazing Incidents Witnessed in our Cases:

From Leonel Bermudez’s experience and countless other deeply disturbing cases nationwide, we see common themes of abuse:

• Physical Abuse: This goes beyond mere roughhousing. Leonel was subjected to extreme calisthenics (500 squats, 100+ push-ups), forced long-distance crawls, and was struck with wooden paddles. Other cases involve branding, burning, sleep deprivation leading to physical collapse, and severe beatings.
• Forced Consumption: This includes binge drinking to the point of alcohol poisoning (a leading cause of hazing deaths), eating until vomiting (as Leonel experienced with milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns), or being forced to ingest non-food items, leading to choking or internal injury.
• Water-Related Torture: The “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose” Leonel endured is a horrific example. This tactic crosses a severe line, mimicking methods classified as torture globally, and risking drowning or severe respiratory harm.
• Psychological Torture: Humiliation, such as forcing Leonel to carry a fanny pack with sexual objects or stripping pledges in cold weather, creates lasting mental trauma. Threats of social ostracization, expulsion, or physical harm are constant and deeply damaging.
• Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to stay awake for extended periods, or subjecting them to late-night and early-morning “duties” (like driving members for hours), severely impacts physical and mental health. This lack of rest directly contributed to Leonel’s inability to recover from his grueling physical tasks.

The Profound Medical and Psychological Consequences:

The injuries sustained from hazing extend far beyond the immediate physical pain:

• Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure: As suffered by Leonel, this condition can lead to permanent organ damage or even be fatal. It arises from muscles literally breaking down from forced overexertion.
• Alcohol Poisoning: A tragically common cause of hazing deaths, resulting from forced binge drinking.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From falls, blows, or concussions during physical hazing.
• Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From forced exposure to extreme cold or heat.
• Gastrointestinal Injuries: From forced eating or drinking of corrosive substances.
• PTSD, Anxiety, Depression: The most common long-term psychological impacts, often requiring years of therapy. Leonel’s fear of retribution, documented by the media, is a clear example of the lasting psychological toll.
• Death: The ultimate, irreversible tragedy that far too many families endure.

The Cycle of Institutional Failure: It’s important for City of Danville parents to understand that universities and national Greek organizations are often aware of the hazing epidemic. They implement policies, conduct investigations, and sometimes take disciplinary action – but typically only after a serious injury or death forces their hand. They then issue carefully worded public statements, close local chapters, and claim to be “shocked,” all while trying to limit their legal and financial liability. This systemic failure is precisely what we fight against.

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

When a student from City of Danville is harmed by hazing, it’s crucial to understand that responsibility extends far beyond just the individual perpetrators. Our aggressive legal strategy, honed over decades of high-stakes litigation, targets every entity that played a role in allowing that abuse to occur. As proven in the Leonel Bermudez lawsuit, we cast a wide net to ensure complete accountability. We are focused on suing the university, the national organization, the housing corporation, and the individual members.

The Defendant Categories We Pursue:

1. Local Chapter:

   • Liability: The immediate orchestrators of the abuse. They are directly liable for planning, conducting, and participating in hazing rituals. In Leonel’s case, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter at the University of Houston directly organized the waterboarding, the forced exercises, and the psychological torment. Members, including the president and pledgemaster, face direct liability for their actions and omissions.
   • Why we sue them: To hold the individuals closest to the abuse personally accountable and to prevent groups from simply reforming under a new name.

2. National Fraternity/Sorority Organizations:

   • Liability: These are often large, well-funded corporations with policies, insurance, and oversight responsibilities for all their chapters, including those near City of Danville. They are liable for failing to supervise their local chapters, failing to enforce their own anti-hazing policies, and for fostering a culture where such “traditions” are allowed to persist.
   • In Leonel’s case: Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters knew about Leonel’s hospitalization and quickly closed the chapter before our firm even filed the lawsuit. This action is an implicit admission of their internal findings of wrongdoing on the part of the chapter, and it highlights their awareness of the risks. Crucially, this same national organization had a student, Andrew Coffey, die in a hazing incident in 2017. Their failure to prevent another severe incident eight years later demonstrates a profound pattern of negligence and conscious indifference.
   • Why we sue them: National organizations often have “deep pockets” and insurance policies designed to cover such incidents. Holding them accountable sends a powerful message that demands systemic change across all chapters.

3. Universities & Colleges:

   • Liability: Educational institutions, whether it’s Virginia Tech or the University of Virginia, have a fundamental duty to protect their students, especially when hazing occurs on their campus or within organizations they sanction. Their liability arises from:
     • Negligent Supervision: Failing to adequately monitor Greek life or other student organizations.
     • Failing to Enforce Policies: Having anti-hazing policies but not actively ensuring compliance.
     • Controlling Property: If hazing occurs on university-owned or controlled property, like the fraternity house at the University of Houston, the university has premises liability for creating or allowing dangerous conditions.
     • Prior Knowledge: If a university has a history of hazing incidents, their failure to act more decisively to prevent future incidents demonstrates a reckless disregard for student safety. The University of Houston had a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017.
   • Why we sue them: Universities have significant resources, endowments, and insurance. They are often best positioned to implement widespread systemic changes that can truly prevent hazing.

4. Chapter Housing Corporations and Alumni Boards:

   • Liability: These entities often own the fraternity houses and provide financial or advisory oversight to local chapters. They can be held liable for maintaining unsafe premises or for their role in perpetuating a hazing culture. They often act as a critical financial and advisory link between national and local chapters.
   • In Leonel’s case: The Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation is a named defendant because they owned or controlled the property where hazing occurred.
   • Why we sue them: They often hold significant assets (real estate) and layers of insurance that can contribute to a victim’s recovery.

5. Individual Perpetrators:

   • Liability: Every person who directly participated in, encouraged, or failed to intervene in a hazing act can be held personally liable for assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and negligence. This includes current members, chapter officers (like the president and pledgemaster in Leonel’s case), and even former members and their spouses who host hazing events at their private residences.
   • In Leonel’s case: We named 13 individual fraternity members, including the president, pledgemaster, other chapter leaders, current members, and a former member and his spouse who hosted hazing activities at their home.
   • Why we sue them: This sends a clear message that individuals cannot hide behind the “fraternity shield.” Personal liability can have profound consequences, driving home the severity of their actions.

6. Insurance Carriers:

   • Liability: Ultimately, the funds for a victim’s recovery often come from the various insurance policies held by the national organization, the university, the housing corporation, and even individual homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies.
   • Why we pursue them: As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena possess an invaluable insider’s understanding of how these companies value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize payouts. We leverage this knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for our clients.

The “Deep Pockets” Principle: Hazing litigation is not about financially ruining individual college students (though personal liability is a real threat for perpetrators). It is primarily about holding powerful, well-resourced institutions – with their vast assets and extensive insurance coverage – accountable. When these institutions face multi-million dollar judgments, they are compelled to make the systemic changes necessary to prevent future tragedies. This is the financial leverage for justice.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof That Justice Is Possible

For families in City of Danville grappling with the aftermath of hazing, understanding the potential for meaningful recovery is crucial. Hazing claims are not just about seeking justice; they are about securing comprehensive compensation for devastating injuries and, often, sending a message so powerful that it forces systemic change. The precedent-setting verdicts and settlements across the nation demonstrate that aggressive legal action can yield multi-million dollar results.

These cases are a warning to fraternities, sororities, universities, and their national organizations wherever students from City of Danville enroll: hazing costs millions. We leverage these victories to advocate forcefully for our clients, knowing that the same legal strategies apply regardless of where the incident occurred.

Landmark Verdicts & Settlements: They Will Pay.

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

   • Total Recovery: $10.1 MILLION+
   • What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, a pledge at BGSU’s Pi Kappa Alpha (PIKE) chapter, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” initiation event. He was found unresponsive the next morning and died from alcohol poisoning. A personal judgment of $6.5 million was recently ordered against the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, in December 2024, in addition to earlier settlements.
   • Breakdown: Bowling Green State University settled for $2.9 million, and Pi Kappa Alpha National, along with other individuals, settled for approximately $7.2 million.
   • Relevance for City of Danville: This case sets a critically important benchmark. Our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is directly aligned with this precedent, proving that such amounts are not only sought but achieved. It also highlights that individuals, even former chapter presidents, can be held personally liable for millions.

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

   • Total Verdict: $6.1 MILLION
   • What Happened: In September 2017, 18-year-old Max Gruver died from acute alcohol poisoning (with a BAC of 0.495) during a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” event at LSU. Pledges were forced to drink heavily whenever they answered questions incorrectly.
   • Outcome: A jury delivered a $6.1 million verdict to the Gruver family. Criminal charges led to prison time for some members, and the tragedy spurred the creation of the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
   • Relevance for City of Danville: This jury verdict demonstrates that courts and juries will not tolerate hazing and are willing to award substantial sums. It also shows how victim advocacy can lead to significant legislative change that protects future students.

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

   • Total Recovery: $110+ MILLION (Estimated, Multiple Settlements)
   • What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza, a pledge at Penn State’s Beta Theta Pi chapter, was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes. He fell repeatedly down a flight of stairs, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911, and he later died.
   • Outcome: The case resulted in confidential settlements estimated to exceed $110 million, multiple criminal convictions (including involuntary manslaughter), and the passage of Pennsylvania’s comprehensive Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law. Crucially, security cameras captured the entire horrific incident.
   • Relevance for City of Danville: This case exemplifies the immense financial and criminal consequences when hazing is meticulously documented and aggressively pursued. When evidence is strong, as it is in Leonel Bermudez’s case, settlements can reach extraordinary levels.

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

   • Outcome: Criminal charges, chapter closure, and a confidential civil settlement.
   • What Happened: In November 2017, Andrew Coffey died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink a full bottle of bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” event at Florida State.
   • Relevance for City of Danville: This is critically important: Andrew Coffey was a victim of the SAME NATIONAL FRATERNITY (PI KAPPA PHI) involved in our current University of Houston case. This establishes a clear pattern of dangerous, deadly hazing within Pi Kappa Phi, a national organization with chapters across America, including at universities attended by students from City of Danville. This demonstrates their actual knowledge of their chapters’ dangerous hazing practices and their profound failure to act effectively.

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

   • Total Settlement: $4 MILLION+
   • What Happened: In February 2021, Adam Oakes, an 18-year-old freshman, died after a Delta Chi fraternity bid night event at VCU where he was forced to consume a large quantity of alcohol.
   • Outcome: The family reached a $4 million-plus settlement in October 2024. Six fraternity members faced criminal hazing charges, and the tragedy led to Virginia’s “Adam’s Law,” strengthening anti-hazing legislation.
   • Relevance for City of Danville: This is a case involving a Virginia university, demonstrating that hazing and its legal consequences happen very close to home for City of Danville families. The substantial settlement and new state law further underscore the national commitment to combating hazing and holding responsible parties accountable.

Laws Forged Through Tragedy:

These landmark cases did more than just secure justice for individual victims; they reshaped legal landscapes, driving new anti-hazing legislation across the country:

• Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law (Pennsylvania, 2018): Introduced felony charges for hazing causing death and immunity for those who report hazing incidents.
• Max Gruver Act (Louisiana, 2018): Elevated hazing to a felony offense with increased penalties.
• Collin’s Law (Ohio, 2021): Named after Collin Wiant, created felony hazing charges.
• Adam’s Law (Virginia, 2023): Named after Adam Oakes, further strengthened anti-hazing measures in Virginia.

Why These Precedents Matter for Our Case and for City of Danville Families:

1. Our $10 Million Demand is Fully Supported by Precedent: Cases like Stone Foltz’s, resulting in a $10.1 million recovery, prove that our demand for Leonel Bermudez is not only reasonable but justified. While Leonel survived, his injuries (rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization with potential lifelong complications) are severe enough to warrant such a substantial claim.
2. Pi Kappa Phi Has a Death on Its Record: The Andrew Coffey tragedy in 2017 directly links the Pi Kappa Phi national organization to a prior hazing death. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and places immense pressure on them for their failure to prevent another severe incident.
3. University of Houston Has a Documented History of Hazing Problems: The 2017 hazing hospitalization of a student from a different fraternity at UH proves that the university was aware of hazing risks on its campus. Their failure to implement effective safeguards between 2017 and 2025 demonstrates systemic institutional negligence that City of Danville families can use as leverage against their own local universities.
4. Juries and Courts Despise Hazing: The multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements send a clear message: the courts will not tolerate these actions. The egregious conduct in the Bermudez case—waterboarding, forced eating, extreme physical abuse—is likely to enrage a jury, leading to significant compensatory and punitive damages.
5. Criminal Charges Often Follow: Texas law already criminalizes hazing, and the University of Houston spokesperson has acknowledged “potential criminal charges” in Leonel’s case. This simultaneous criminal and civil liability creates additional pressure for defendants to settle.

These precedents are not just abstract legal victories; they are a beacon of hope for City of Danville families that justice can be achieved, and that powerful institutions can be forced to change.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights as a Hazing Victim

For families in City of Danville, while the specific hazing incident may occur outside of Virginia, understanding the legal framework is crucial. We base our firm in Texas, a state with strong anti-hazing laws, and we leverage federal jurisdiction and national precedent to advocate for victims across the country. Our legal team is well-versed in Texas law and applies these principles, alongside federal statutes and common law negligence claims, to secure justice for hazing victims everywhere, including those from City of Danville.

Understanding Hazing Laws: Texas and Beyond

Hazing is not just a campus policy violation; it is illegal. In Texas, our anti-hazing laws are particularly robust, providing victims with significant legal recourse.

Texas Education Code § 37.151-37.157 — Anti-Hazing Law

• Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Texas law broadly defines hazing as “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act occurring on or off campus… directed against a student for the purpose of pledging… if the act: (1) is any type of physical brutality… (2) involves sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other similar activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm… (3) involves consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage… (5) involves coercing… the student to consume… an alcoholic beverage or liquor in an amount that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the student is intoxicated.”
  • City of Danville Application: The horrific details of Leonel Bermudez’s hazing — waterboarding, forced exercise, forced eating, sleep deprivation, physical brutality — clearly fall under multiple provisions of this statute. Most states, including Virginia, have similar anti-hazing statutes that criminalize these acts and provide a basis for civil action.
• Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is perhaps the most critical aspect of Texas law for hazing victims. The statute explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution that the person hazed consented to the hazing.”
  • Why this matters to City of Danville families: Hazing perpetrators and their institutions often argue victims “consented” or “knew what they were signing up for.” Texas law unequivocally rejects this defense. A student cannot legally consent to physical brutality, torture, or other criminal acts. This provision powerfully undermines the typical defense arguments fraternities and universities attempt to use.
• Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Individuals who engage in hazing face misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the severity of the injury. Hazing causing serious bodily injury (like Leonel’s kidney failure) is a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine. Hazing causing death is a State Jail Felony, with penalties up to two years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.
  • City of Danville Application: The university spokesperson for the University of Houston themselves acknowledged “potential criminal charges” in the Bermudez case. This means police and district attorneys consider these acts criminal, providing an additional avenue for justice alongside civil lawsuits.
• Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Organizations that condone, encourage, or whose members engage in hazing can face significant fines (up to $10,000) and loss of campus recognition.
  • City of Danville Application: This holds the entire chapter and, by extension, the national organization accountable for the actions of their members, not just the individuals directly involved.

Civil Liability for Hazing: What City of Danville Victims Can Sue For

Beyond criminal charges and university sanctions, civil lawsuits allow victims and their families to seek substantial financial compensation for their suffering. These civil claims are available in virtually every state, providing a powerful avenue for justice for City of Danville students.

1. Negligence Claims: This is the most common legal theory in personal injury cases.
   • Duty of Care: Universities and national fraternities owe a duty to reasonably protect their students and members from foreseeable harm.
   • Breach of Duty: They breach this duty by failing to adequately supervise, investigate, enact appropriate policies, or intervene when hazing occurs.
   • Causation: This breach directly causes the victim’s injuries.
   • Damages: The victim suffers quantifiable damages (medical bills, pain and suffering).
   • City of Danville Application: This applies directly to the University of Houston’s failure to prevent hazing despite owning the fraternity house and knowing about prior incidents, and to Pi Kappa Phi National’s failure to prevent abuse despite knowledge of past hazing deaths.
2. Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university or a housing corporation, they have a responsibility to maintain a safe environment.
   • City of Danville Application: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where Leonel was hazed, making this claim exceptionally strong.
3. Negligent Supervision: This claim targets the failure of those in authority to properly oversee individuals or entities for whom they have responsibility.
   • City of Danville Application: National fraternities failing to supervise local chapters, local chapter officers failing to supervise pledges, and universities failing to supervise Greek life all fall under this umbrella.
4. Assault and Battery: These are intentional torts directly against the individuals who committed the physical acts of hazing.
   • City of Danville Application: Waterboarding, physical beatings, forced exercise, and being struck with paddles are clear examples of assault and battery.
5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): This claim addresses severe psychological harm caused by extreme and outrageous conduct.
   • City of Danville Application: The psychological torment, humiliation, and terror experienced during hazing, particularly acts like waterboarding, clearly meet the high bar for IIED.
6. Wrongful Death Claims: In tragic cases where hazing results in death, families can sue for loss of companionship, future earnings, funeral expenses, and often punitive damages.
   • City of Danville Application: While Leonel survived, cases like Andrew Coffey’s (from the same fraternity) and Max Gruver’s demonstrate the potential for multi-million dollar wrongful death recoveries.

For City of Danville Families: The legal intricacies of hazing cases can be complex, involving multiple defendants and overlapping jurisdictions. That’s why having experienced hazing litigation attorneys like ours is crucial. We navigate these laws, build airtight cases, and fight tirelessly to ensure that justice is served.

Why Attorney 911 Is the Choice for City of Danville Hazing Victims

When your family in City of Danville faces the nightmare of a hazing incident, you need more than just legal representation; you need fierce advocacy, unparalleled expertise, and a team that genuinely cares. We are not just personal injury lawyers; we are hazing litigation specialists who are actively fighting this battle across the nation, and we extend that commitment to City of Danville families.

Our Unrivaled Credentials and Strategic Advantages:

1. 25+ Years of Battle-Tested Courtroom Experience: Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, brings over two decades of aggressive litigation experience to every case. He knows how to go to war against powerful defendants, and he’s done it successfully many times. This invaluable experience is directly transferable to high-stakes hazing cases. Learn more about Ralph here.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are former insurance defense lawyers. This means they’ve seen how insurance companies strategize, how they value claims, and the tactics they employ to deny or minimize payouts. Now, they use that insider knowledge to meticulously dismantle defense arguments and maximize recovery for hazing victims. This “insurance counter-intelligence system” is a truly unfair advantage for our clients. Learn more about Lupe here.
3. Federal Court Admissions – Nationwide Reach for City of Danville: Our attorneys are admitted to practice in U.S. District Courts. This federal authority allows us to pursue hazing cases against national fraternities and universities across the country, regardless of where they are headquartered or where the hazing occurred. For City of Danville families, this means that even if the incident happened far from Texas, we have the jurisdiction to fight your case.
4. Dual-State Bar Admission (Texas AND New York): Ralph Manginello’s licensure in both Texas and New York provides a strategic advantage when dealing with national fraternity organizations, many of which are based or have significant operations on the East Coast. This dual licensure enhances our ability to navigate complex interstate litigation.
5. Se Habla Español – Bilingual Staff for City of Danville’s Diverse Community: Our bilingual staff ensures seamless communication and compassionate support for Spanish-speaking clients in City of Danville and beyond. Language barriers should never prevent a family from accessing expert legal help.
6. Currently Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Case: This is perhaps our most compelling differentiator for City of Danville families. We aren’t just talking about hazing; we are actively in the fight right now. The Leonel Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston lawsuit demonstrates our immediate, aggressive, and data-driven approach. You don’t have to wonder if we handle hazing cases; we are handling a major one today.
7. Experience Against Massive Corporate Defendants: Ralph Manginello’s involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, a multi-billion dollar mass tort case, showcased his capability to take on and win against the largest corporate defendants. This experience is directly applicable to hazing cases, where we often confront well-resourced national fraternities and universities.
8. Deep Understanding of Medical Injuries: Our specific expertise in conditions like rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, as suffered by Leonel Bermudez, means we understand the complex medical nuances of these cases. We work with top medical experts to fully articulate the extent of injuries and the long-term impact on victims, ensuring comprehensive compensation.
9. Relentless Evidence Preservation and Investigation: The YouTube video “Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case?” Link here highlights our emphasis on immediate and thorough evidence collection. We know the defense will try to destroy or hide information, which is why we act quickly to secure every text, photo, video, and witness statement.

Our Approach to Serving City of Danville Hazing Victims:

• Immediate, Aggressive, Decisive Action: When a legal emergency strikes—especially a hazing emergency—we move fast. We don’t waste time; we gather evidence, identify defendants, and initiate legal action to protect your child’s rights.
• Expert Network: We collaborate with leading experts in medical care, Greek life culture, institutional negligence, and accident reconstruction to build an irrefutable case.
• Negotiating from a Position of Strength: Our active $10 million lawsuit and our proven track record demonstrate that we are ready and willing to take cases to trial. This leverage often leads to more favorable out-of-court settlements for our clients.
• Travel to City of Danville: We understand that distance can be a concern. While our headquarters are in Houston, we are prepared to travel to City of Danville for depositions, client meetings, and trials as needed. We also offer convenient remote consultations via phone and video.
• Contingency Fees – No Upfront Cost for City of Danville Families: We operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely nothing upfront, and we only get paid if and when we win your case. This removes the financial barrier, allowing any City of Danville family to access top-tier legal representation, regardless of their current financial situation. Learn more about our contingency fees here.

If a university, fraternity, or insurance company attempts to silence or mislead City of Danville hazing victims, we take it to court. We are not afraid to confront powerful institutions and their legal teams.

Why We Truly Care:

Ralph Manginello, a father of three, understands the profound fear and anger a parent feels when their child is harmed. Lupe Pena’s statement, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough,” embodies our firm’s deep commitment. These are not just cases to us; they are stories of betrayal and abuse that demand justice. We see your child as a person, not a file, and we will fight for them with the same dedication we would for our own families.

Our client testimonials consistently highlight our commitment to communication, empathy, and aggressive pursuit of maximum compensation. From “they treat you like family” to “a true Pitt Bull and fighter,” our clients know we go above and beyond. We are grateful for our 4.9-star rating based on over 250 Google reviews, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction.

We believe that City of Danville families deserve the very best representation when facing such a crisis. We are here to be your advocates, your allies, and your first responders in this legal emergency.

What to Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for City of Danville Hazing Victims and Families

If your child in City of Danville has been subjected to hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are crucial. The actions you take – or fail to take – can significantly impact the strength of any future legal claim. We understand the shock, fear, and confusion you’re experiencing, but acting quickly can protect your child’s rights and future.

Your Immediate Hazing First Response Protocol:

1. Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Attention:

   • Get Your Child to Safety: Remove them from the hazing environment immediately.
   • Seek Medical Help: Even if injuries seem minor, or if your child is reluctant, insist on a thorough medical examination. Conditions like rhabdomyolysis or internal injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
   • Call 911 if Necessary: If there is any sign of severe injury, overdose, or unconsciousness, call emergency services without hesitation.
   • Document Everything Medically: Ensure doctors and hospital staff record every symptom, complaint, and diagnosis. Keep copies of all medical records, including emergency room reports, diagnostic tests, and follow-up care. This is critical documentation for your case.

2. Preserve Absolutely All Evidence – DO NOT Delete Anything:

   • Text Messages, Group Chats & Social Media: Hazers often communicate through platforms like GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, or even regular text messages. Screenshots of conversations, photos, videos, or posts related to the hazing are invaluable. Do not delete any messages, even if they seem insignificant or embarrassing. These communications often contain direct evidence of peer pressure, threats, instructions, or even admissions of wrongdoing.
   • Photos & Videos: Take pictures of any physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, rashes). Document the hazing location if accessible (fraternity house, off-campus residence, specific areas like basements or fields). If there were items used in hazing (e.g., paddles, alcohol containers, blindfolds), photograph them. Continue to photograph injuries as they heal. Our video “Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case?” emphasizes this critical step. You can watch it here.
   • Documents: Save any pledge manuals, schedules, “rules” provided to your child, or communications from the organization.
   • Witness Information: Collect names and contact information for any other pledges, active members who may have witnessed the hazing, or even bystanders. Their testimony can be crucial.

3. Avoid Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case (and Your Child’s Reputation):

   • Do NOT Talk to the Fraternity/University Alone: Do not give any statements, recorded or otherwise, to fraternity leadership, university administrators, or their lawyers without legal counsel present. Their priority is to protect the institution, not your child. They will attempt to minimize the incident or even shift blame. Our video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” highlights these pitfalls.
   • Do NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, university, or their representatives without a lawyer reviewing them first. These documents often waive your child’s legal rights.
   • Do NOT Post on Social Media: Refrain from posting about the incident on any social media platform. Anything your child posts, or that others tag them in, can and will be used against them by the defense to discredit their claims or minimize their injuries. This includes posts about being “fine” or pictures smiling, even if unrelated to the incident directly.
   • Do NOT Delay: Every moment counts. Evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and, crucially, the statute of limitations is ticking.

4. Report to Appropriate Authorities (With Legal Guidance):

   • Local Law Enforcement: Hazing is a crime in Virginia, under similar parameters as Texas. Consider filing a police report. This can initiate a criminal investigation parallel to any civil action.
   • University Dean of Students/Greek Life Office: While we advise caution when speaking to university officials alone, a formal report is often necessary to trigger their internal investigation and disciplinary process. We can guide you through this.
   • Title IX Office (If Applicable): If the hazing involved sexual misconduct or gender-based discrimination, a Title IX report may be appropriate.

5. CONTACT US IMMEDIATELY – TIME is CRITICAL:

   • Statute of Limitations: In Texas, and many other states including Virginia, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases (including hazing claims) is typically TWO YEARS from the date of injury, and for wrongful death cases, TWO YEARS from the date of death. This is a strict deadline; if you miss it, you lose your right to sue forever. Our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” explains this urgency. Watch it here.
   • Evidence Preservation: The sooner we are involved, the better we can ensure all critical evidence is preserved before it can be destroyed or lost. We can immediately issue “litigation hold” letters to all potential defendants, legally compelling them to retain evidence.

What Attorney 911 Will Do for City of Danville Families:

Once you contact us at 1-888-ATTY-911, we immediately begin working to protect your child:

• Free, Confidential Consultation: We will listen to your story, assess the details of the hazing incident, and provide a clear appraisal of your legal options – all at no cost and with complete confidentiality.
• Rapid Evidence Securement: We move quickly to gather and preserve all available evidence, including issuing subpoenas and litigation holds.
• Identify All Liable Parties: We use our extensive databases, including IRS records of Greek organizations, to identify every single entity and individual responsible, from the local chapter to the national headquarters, the university, and individual perpetrators.
• Aggressive Advocacy: We handle all communications with the fraternity, university, and their legal/insurance teams, shielding you and your child from further harassment or manipulation.
• Build a Powerful Case: We work with medical experts, Greek life experts, and investigators to fully document your child’s injuries, psychological trauma, and the pattern of institutional negligence.
• Fight for Maximum Compensation: We pursue every avenue for recovery, including economic damages (medical bills, lost tuition, lost earnings), non-economic damages (pain, suffering, emotional distress), and punitive damages to punish egregious conduct.
• Travel to City of Danville: We utilize remote technology for consultations, and our attorneys are prepared to travel to City of Danville for depositions, client meetings, and trials when necessary. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

Your child’s future and well-being are paramount. Don’t let fear or intimidation prevent you from seeking the justice and compensation your family deserves. The time to act is now.

Contact Us: Your First Call for Justice in City of Danville Hazing Emergencies

City of Danville Families: Have you or your child been severely injured or tragically lost due to hazing? You have legal rights, and we are here to help you fight back.

We are the firm that is aggressively litigating the $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for horrific hazing that hospitalized a young man and left him with kidney failure. This isn’t theoretical – we are in the trenches right now, fighting for victims and holding powerful institutions accountable. We bring this same level of expertise, dedication, and ferocity to every hazing case we take on, including those affecting families in City of Danville.

City of Danville Families: Call Now for a FREE, Confidential Consultation

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

This hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for City of Danville hazing emergencies. When you’re searching for answers at 2 AM, we’re here to provide immediate guidance and support.

Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com

No Upfront Costs. We Don’t Get Paid Unless YOU Get Paid.

We represent hazing victims and their families from City of Danville on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay $0 upfront to hire our expert legal team.
• We cover all legal expenses and court costs as the case progresses.
• You only pay us if and when we successfully secure compensation for you through a settlement or a verdict.
• This ensures that every City of Danville family can access top-tier legal representation, regardless of financial circumstances. Learn more about how contingency fees work here.

What City of Danville Hazing Victims Should Do Next:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: If your child has been injured, physically or psychologically, ensure they receive prompt medical care and counselling. Document everything.
2. Preserve ALL Evidence: Save every text message, GroupMe chat, Snapchat, photograph, video, and document related to the hazing. Do not delete anything. This is crucial for your case.
3. Do Not Communicate with the Brotherhood, University, or Their Lawyers: Do not give any statements, sign any documents, or engage in discussions with the fraternity, its national representatives, university officials, or their attorneys without consulting our legal team first. They do not have your best interests at heart.
4. Avoid Social Media: Refrain from posting anything about the incident or being tagged in posts that could be used by the defense. Our video on “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” emphasizes these critical points.
5. Contact Us Promptly: The statute of limitations (typically two years) means crucial evidence can disappear quickly, and your legal window can close. Contacting us early ensures we can initiate an immediate investigation and protect your rights.

We Serve City of Danville and Hazing Victims Nationwide:

While our primary offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our expertise extends far beyond state lines. Hazing is a national crisis, and we are equipped to represent victims in City of Danville and across America through:

• Federal Court Authority: Our attorneys are admitted to practice in U.S. District Courts, allowing us to pursue cases against national organizations in federal jurisdiction, regardless of the incident location.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York, providing additional strategic advantages when dealing with interstate hazing litigation.
• Remote Consultations: We offer convenient and confidential video consultations, enabling City of Danville families to meet with our attorneys without traveling.
• Commitment to Travel: For critical depositions, essential client meetings, or trial, our team will travel to City of Danville to fiercely advocate for your child. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

Hazing is not limited to fraternities and sororities. We represent victims of hazing in a variety of organizations attended by students from City of Danville:

• Fraternities and sororities at institutions like Virginia Tech, University of Virginia, James Madison University, and other colleges.
• Sports teams, from high school clubs to collegiate athletics.
• Marching bands and other performing arts ensembles.
• ROTC programs and military academies.
• Any club or organization that uses abuse as “initiation.”

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

If you were also subjected to the horrific hazing by Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston, we want you to know: you are not alone, and you have rights. Leonel Bermudez was not the only victim; other pledges collapsed and were subjected to the same waterboarding, forced eating, and extreme physical torment.

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

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

Your child deserved better. We will fight for them.

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