If you’re reading this in Floyd County, Virginia, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went off to college, hoping to make friends, build a community, and find a sense of belonging. Instead, they were tortured. They were abused. They were hazed. We’re here to help families in Floyd County fight back against the fraternities, sororities, and universities that turn a blind eye to this type of abuse.

We understand what you’re going through. Your stomach is in knots. You’re angry, scared, and searching for answers in the middle of the night. You’re trying to comprehend how the institution you trusted with your child’s safety could allow something so horrific to happen. We see this unfolding across the country, and we want you to know that you are not alone. Our firm, Attorney911, is actively fighting this battle right now, in the courts of Texas, and we are ready to bring that same aggressive, data-driven fight to Floyd County, Virginia.

We are not just talking about hypothetical legal battles; we are in the trenches, representing victims whose lives have been shattered by hazing. Our recent $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is proof of our commitment to holding every responsible party accountable. The same national fraternities that have caused harm in Texas have chapters at universities throughout Virginia, including colleges and universities near Floyd County. The same dangerous “traditions” that hospitalized our client could be happening to your child right now.

No matter where these horrific incidents occur, from a large public university in Virginia to a small college town near Floyd County, the legal principles remain the same. The institutions that permit this conduct need to be held responsible. We are here to guide you through this nightmare, to protect your child’s rights, and to ensure that those who inflicted harm, and those who enabled it, face justice.

The Landmark Case: Attorney911 vs. Pi Kappa Phi & University of Houston (2025)

Floyd County Families: This case isn’t just a headline from a faraway city; it’s a stark warning about what hazing truly looks like today, and a testament to our firm’s unwavering resolve. This happened just weeks ago, and it could happen at universities where students from Floyd County attend. The same national fraternities operate in Virginia. The same institutional negligence that we are fighting in Houston could exist at campuses near your home in Floyd County.

We are actively litigating a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members. This is not theoretical – we are in the fight right now.

The victim in this case is Leonel Bermudez. Leonel was a “ghost rush”—a prospective member who wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet, but planned to transfer for the upcoming semester. They did this to someone who wasn’t even their student.

On September 16, 2025, Leonel accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. What followed was an agonizing seven weeks of systematic abuse, physical torture, and psychological torment that culminated in his hospitalization for severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He spent four days in the hospital, grappling with an injury that could lead to permanent kidney damage. His mother reported that he was passing brown urine, a horrifying sign of his muscle tissue breaking down.

Our role as his attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, is to ensure every entity responsible for this trauma is held accountable. 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.” Lupe Pena added, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

The defendants we have named in this lawsuit are comprehensive: Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (specifically its local Beta Nu Chapter), Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, the Beta Nu Housing Corporation, the University of Houston, and the UH Board of Regents. We’ve also named the fraternity’s president, pledgemaster, other current and former members who participated, and even a former member and his spouse, as some of the hazing occurred at their residence. This extensive list demonstrates our commitment to targeting every single party that bears responsibility.

Within weeks of Leonel’s hazing being reported, the Pi Kappa Phi chapter at the University of Houston was suspended. The members voted to surrender their charter, and the chapter was permanently closed. Criminal referrals against individuals were initiated. The University of Houston’s own spokesperson admitted that “The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards.” Even Pi Kappa Phi National’s website confirms they closed the chapter “following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” They acknowledge wrongdoing, but then brazenly state, “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time.” This lack of remorse fuels our fight.

This case is a testament to the type of aggressive, thorough, data-driven, and relentless representation that Attorney911 provides. We are fighting for Leonel Bermudez right now in Harris County Civil District Court. This is proof that our firm is not theoretical. We are not hypothetical. We are not just proclaiming “someday we hope to handle hazing cases.” We are actively fighting these battles today, and we are ready to take on cases for victims in Floyd County and across the country.

You can find more details about this crucial case in reports from several reputable news sources:

• Click2Houston (KPRC 2): Only on 2: Lawsuit alleges severe hazing at University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi chapter fraternity (published Nov 21, 2025)
• ABC13 (KTRK): Waterboarding, forced eating, physical punishment: Lawsuit alleges abuse faced injured pledge UH’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity (published Nov 21, 2025)
• Hoodline: University of Houston And Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Face $10M Lawsuit Over Alleged Hazing And Abuse (published Nov 22, 2025)

The information in these reports, combined with our deep understanding of hazing litigation, forms the foundation of our strategy. If this can happen in Houston, it can happen anywhere, including institutions near Floyd County, Virginia.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Myths

If you’re a parent in Floyd County, Virginia, you might imagine hazing as innocent pranks or harmless rituals. Maybe a little good-natured teasing, or some silly scavenger hunts. The reality is far more sinister, and the Leonel Bermudez case lays bare the brutal truth: hazing today is often abuse, assault, and torture. It is designed to degrade, humiliate, and control, often under the guise of “brotherhood” or “tradition.”

Let us be unequivocally clear: this is not about “boys being boys” or harmless fun. It is about a culture of violence and intimidation, often sanctioned by the very institutions we trust to protect our children.

The Hazing Activities Exposed in Our Lawsuit — What Leonel Endured:

The types of hazing Leonel Bermudez suffered are tragically common, yet horrifying in their execution. These are not isolated incidents; they are calculated acts intended to break down an individual. Imagine your child enduring any of the following, as Leonel did:

1. Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning:

• Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose.” Pledges were sprayed in the face with a hose while doing calisthenics, and forced to run repeatedly under the threat of being waterboarded again. This is torture. When done to enemy combatants, it is considered a war crime. Yet, these fraternities do it to college students.

2. Forced Eating Until Vomiting, Followed by Continued Abuse:

• Pledges were forced to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited.
• After vomiting, they were forced to continue running sprints while clearly in physical distress.
• They were even made to lie in the vomit-soaked grass after being sick. This is pure degradation and a severe health risk.

3. Extreme Physical Punishment Beyond Human Limits:

• Leonel was forced to perform over 100 pushups, 500 squats, and numerous other exercises.
• He endured high-volume “suicides” (running drills), bear crawls, and wheelbarrows.
• He was made to perform “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls.
• He had to recite the fraternity creed while exercising under threat of immediate expulsion.
• These activities continued until he was so exhausted he could not stand without help – an act designed to cause physical breakdown.
• He was also “struck with wooden paddles,” a clear act of physical assault.

4. Psychological Torture and Humiliation:

• Pledges were forced to strip to their underwear in cold weather, enhancing their vulnerability.
• Leonel was made to carry a fanny pack containing “objects of a sexual nature” at all times – a deeply humiliating act.
• In another incident, a pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. This is false imprisonment and psychological terror.
• Threats of physical punishment or expulsion for non-compliance created an atmosphere of fear and coercion.

5. Sleep Deprivation and Exhaustion:

• Pledges were forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, disrupting their sleep and ensuring constant exhaustion. This chronic sleep deprivation significantly impairs judgment, physical capabilities, and mental health.

The Medical Consequences – Rhabdomyolysis:

The phrase “rhabdomyolysis” might sound clinical, but its impact is brutal. It is the breakdown of muscle tissue that releases a damaging protein (myoglobin) into the bloodstream. This can cause acute kidney failure and, if untreated, death. Leonel’s brown urine was a horrifying signal that his muscles were literally dissolving. He spent four days in the hospital, and the long-term risk of permanent kidney damage is a very real concern. Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases, making him uniquely equipped to handle the complexities of Leonel’s situation, and other cases like it in Floyd County.

It’s imperative for parents in Floyd County to understand: Hazing is not benign. It is a dangerous, often criminal, act that can lead to severe physical injury, lifelong psychological trauma, and even death. The culture that allows these acts thrives on secrecy and fear. But we are here to expose it and bring those responsible to justice.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Enabler Accountable

When a child is brutally hazed, it’s easy to point fingers at the immediate perpetrators. However, our approach at Attorney911 is to cast a wide net, identifying and holding accountable every individual and institution that enabled, ignored, or facilitated the abuse. This is how we ensure maximum accountability and compensation for victims and their families in Floyd County.

In the Leonel Bermudez case, we have strategically named a comprehensive list of defendants, demonstrating that responsibility extends far beyond just a few bad actors:

1. The Local Chapter: Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu at University of Houston

• Why they are liable: This is the nexus of the hazing. The local chapter directly organized and conducted the abusive activities. Their officers, like the President and Pledgemaster, were the architects of the torment, directing and overseeing the rituals. The members who participated are individually liable for their actions.

2. The National Organization: Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters

• Why they are liable: National fraternities often claim ignorance or distance from local chapter activities. However, our lawsuit alleges that Pi Kappa Phi National “failed to enforce anti-hazing rules and policies despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'” They have documented hazing deaths in their history (Andrew Coffey in 2017), meaning they had a clear duty to act and failed. National organizations possess vast resources, including substantial assets and liability insurance, making them “deep pockets” from which to recover damages.

3. The Housing Corporation: Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation

• Why they are liable: This entity often owns or controls the fraternity house where hazing frequently occurs. As property owners, they have a responsibility to ensure a safe environment. If hazing takes place on their premises, they can be held liable for failing to prevent dangerous conditions.

4. The University: University of Houston and the UH Board of Regents

• Why they are liable: Universities like the one near Floyd County and throughout Virginia have a fundamental duty to protect their students. In the Bermudez case, the University of Houston is particularly culpable because it owned and controlled the fraternity house where some of the most egregious hazing took place. This establishes clear premises liability. Furthermore, the University of Houston had a prior hazing incident in 2017 involving another fraternity that hospitalized a student. They were on notice and failed to implement sufficient safeguards, demonstrating negligent supervision and institutional negligence. Universities wield immense power over Greek life, including the ability to regulate, suspend, or remove organizations. When they fail to use this power, they become complicit.

5. Individual Perpetrators:

• Why they are liable: This includes the fraternity president, the pledgemaster, and individual fraternity members who participated in, directed, or failed to stop the hazing. In the Bermudez case, this also included former members who hosted hazing at their residence, and even the spouse of a former member for allowing such activities on their property. Every person who actively participated in, commanded, or facilitated the abuse can be held personally and financially responsible. This is a critical point for parents in Floyd County to understand – these are not anonymous acts; individuals are accountable.

Connecting to Floyd County, Virginia:

What happened in Houston is not unique. Fraternities and sororities with national affiliations operating at universities throughout Virginia likely adhere to similar organizational structures. This means:

• The national headquarters of fraternities and sororities with chapters at universities near Floyd County face the same liability. They have assets, insurance, and a duty to oversee their chapters.
• Universities in Virginia have the same duty of care towards their students. If hazing occurs on their property or under their watch, they are just as liable as the University of Houston. This includes institutions like Radford University, Virginia Tech in nearby Blacksburg, and other colleges and universities across the Commonwealth.
• Individuals involved in hazing in Floyd County and surrounding areas can be held personally responsible.

Our firm’s experience as former insurance defense attorneys, particularly Lupe Pena’s background at a national defense firm like Litchfield Cavo LLP, provides us with invaluable insider knowledge. We know how these multi-layered defendants-—national organizations, universities, and their insurance carriers-—strategize to minimize their liability. We understand their tactics because we used to employ them. Now, we use that knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize compensation for our clients in Floyd County.

This multi-faceted approach ensures that we don’t just seek justice from one source; we pursue accountability from every single entity that allowed harm to come to your child. No one gets a pass.

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

For families in Floyd County grappling with the aftermath of hazing, the idea of pursuing justice against powerful fraternities and universities can feel overwhelming. These institutions have vast legal teams and seemingly endless resources. But the truth is, hazing lawsuits can be won, and they do result in multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. We have the proof. These precedent cases send a clear message: hazing costs millions, and we will secure justice for victims like your child in Floyd County.

These landmark cases highlight a crucial reality: juries and courts are increasingly unwilling to tolerate hazing. Each significant award reinforces the fact that fraternities, sororities, and universities can no longer claim ignorance or hide behind decades of “tradition.”

Examples of Precedent-Setting Hazing Cases:

1. Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021) – Over $10.1 Million

   • What Happened: Stone Foltz was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation event. He died from alcohol poisoning.
   • The Outcome: This case resulted in the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history. Bowling Green State University paid $2.9 million, and Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity along with individuals settled for $7.2 million. Most recently, in December 2024, the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was ordered to pay an additional $6.5 million in personal liability.
   • Significance for Floyd County: This case directly supports our $10 million demand in the Bermudez lawsuit. It demonstrates that both universities and fraternities are held financially liable, and that individual perpetrators can face massive personal judgments.

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

   • What Happened: During a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” event, Max Gruver was forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol for answering questions incorrectly. He died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495—more than six times the legal limit.
   • The Outcome: A jury awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million. This verdict also led to criminal convictions, including negligent homicide, and spurred the passage of the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
   • Significance for Floyd County: This shows that juries are willing to deliver multi-million dollar verdicts in hazing cases, especially when conduct is egregious. It also illustrates how these cases can drive legislative change, creating stronger protections for students.

3. Timothy Piazza – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017) – Over $110 Million (Estimated)

   • What Happened: Timothy Piazza was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi bid acceptance night. He fell down a flight of stairs, suffered severe head injuries, and fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911. He died from a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. The entire horrific incident was captured on security cameras.
   • The Outcome: The Piazza family reached a confidential settlement estimated to be over $110 million. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, with several serving prison time. Pennsylvania enacted the “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law” in his memory.
   • Significance for Floyd County: This case, while involving a death, shows the immense financial consequences when evidence of egregious conduct and institutional cover-ups is strong. Our Bermudez case, with its documented torture tactics and the university’s awareness, draws parallels that could lead to similarly high awards.

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

   • What Happened: Andrew Coffey died from alcohol poisoning during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night,” where he was forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon.
   • The Outcome: Nine fraternity members were charged, and the chapter was permanently closed. The family reached a confidential settlement.
   • Significance for Floyd County: This is critical because it involves the same national fraternity, Pi Kappa Phi, that we are suing in the Bermudez case. This demonstrates a documented pattern of deadly hazing that the national organization was aware of, but failed to address effectively. This significantly strengthens our claim for punitive damages against Pi Kappa Phi.

The Message to Institutions (Including those near Floyd County):

These cases send a clear and undeniable message: families of hazing victims will not be silenced, and juries will hold powerful institutions accountable. Universities in Virginia, and the national fraternities with chapters operating there, must pay attention. What happened to Andrew Coffey, Max Gruver, Timothy Piazza, and Stone Foltz can, and already has, happen at other institutions. Our lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is another powerful example of this escalating legal and societal pressure.

For families in Floyd County, these precedents are more than just stories; they are proof that justice is attainable, and that your child’s pain and suffering are compensable. We are committed to achieving results that stand shoulder-to-shoulder with these landmark awards, forcing real change and securing the future your child deserves.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights in Hazing Cases

Hazing is illegal. This isn’t a gray area, and it’s certainly not a “right of passage.” The laws in Texas, and indeed in many states across the U.S., explicitly prohibit hazing and provide legal avenues for victims and their families to seek justice. For parents in Floyd County, Virginia, understanding these legal frameworks is crucial, as many states share similar statutes, and federal laws create additional layers of protection. Furthermore, our firm’s federal court authority means we can pursue your case regardless of where the incident occurred in the United States.

Texas Hazing Laws: The Education Code Chapter 37, Subchapter F

Texas has some of the most robust anti-hazing laws in the nation, codified in the Texas Education Code § 37.151-37.157. These laws define what constitutes hazing, outline criminal penalties, establish organizational liability, and, critically, remove the defense of consent.

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): The law broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of joining or maintaining membership in an organization, and occurs on or off campus. The statute goes on to list specific types of acts:

• Physical Brutality: Whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing a harmful substance on the body, or similar activities. (Directly applicable to Leonel being struck with wooden paddles.)
• Endangerment Activities: Sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement, calisthenics, or other activities risking harm or harming mental/physical health. (Directly applicable to Leonel’s extreme physical exertion, waterboarding, stripping in cold weather, and sleep deprivation.)
• Forced Consumption: Forcing a student to consume substances like food, liquid, alcohol, or drugs, causing risk of harm. (Directly applicable to Leonel being forced to eat grotesque amounts of food until vomiting.)
• Criminal Acts: Any activity inducing a student to violate the Texas Penal Code.
• Coerced Alcohol/Drug Consumption: Coercing consumption of drugs or alcohol to the point of intoxication.

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152):

• Engaging in hazing, soliciting hazing, or failing to report hazing can be a Class B Misdemeanor.
• Hazing causing serious bodily injury (like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure) is a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail.
• Hazing causing death is a State Jail Felony, punishable by 180 days to 2 years in state jail.
  The University of Houston spokesperson’s mention of “potential criminal charges” underscores the severe legal ramifications individuals face.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Organizations, not just individuals, are liable if they condone or encourage hazing, or if their officers, members, pledges, or alumni commit or assist in hazing. Penalties can include fines up to $10,000, denial of operating permission, or forfeiture of property. This means the fraternity chapter, and potentially the national organization, can be held criminally liable.

Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is one of the most critical aspects of Texas law: “It is not a defense to prosecution for an offense under this subchapter that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

This shatters the common defense used by fraternities and universities: “he agreed to it.” When Leonel Bermudez was waterboarded or forced to perform hundreds of squats, he could not legally consent to those acts. The law recognizes the inherent power imbalance and coercive nature of hazing. This is a powerful tool in civil litigation, effectively neutralizing a frequent defense tactic.

Institutional Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Universities must report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor. This creates a paper trail and holds institutions accountable for transparency.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Charges

Even if criminal charges are not pursued or result in a conviction, victims in Floyd County can still bring powerful civil lawsuits. These civil claims seek financial compensation for damages suffered, and they exist in every state, regardless of local criminal prosecution decisions.

1. Negligence Claims: This is a cornerstone of most personal injury lawsuits. We argue that the universities, national fraternities, and local chapters had a duty of care to protect your child, that they breached that duty through their actions or inactions (like allowing hazing), that this breach caused your child’s injuries, and that your child suffered damages as a result.
2. Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (as in the Bermudez case with the University of Houston owning the fraternity house), or on private property of individuals (like the former member’s residence), those property owners can be held liable for allowing a dangerous condition to exist.
3. Negligent Supervision: This applies when institutions (like a national fraternity or a university Greek life office) fail to adequately supervise their chapters or student organizations, leading to harm.
4. Assault and Battery: The physical acts of hazing—like the wooden paddles, waterboarding, or forced physical exertion—constitute assault (the threat of harmful contact) and battery (the actual harmful contact). Each individual who participated in these acts can be sued.
5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: Hazing often involves conduct so extreme and outrageous that it causes severe emotional distress, leading to conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. This claim directly addresses the profound psychological harm inflicted.

Why This Matters to Families in Floyd County, Virginia:

Students from Floyd County attend colleges and universities across Virginia and beyond. Virginia also has its own legislative response to hazing deaths, known as “Adam’s Law,” passed in memory of Adam Oakes who died hazing at Virginia Commonwealth University. This law, like Texas’s, targets egregious hazing, mandates reporting, and seeks to curb the problem. While the specific statutes may differ by state, the fundamental principles of accountability for negligence, assault, and other harmful acts remain consistent across legal jurisdictions.

Our firm’s dual-state bar admissions (Texas and New York) and federal court admissions allow us to pursue these cases strategically, whether the hazing occurred at Virginia Tech, Radford University, the University of Virginia, or any institution across the country. Distance is not a barrier to justice. We will use every legal tool available to ensure that your family receives the compensation and accountability you deserve.

Why Attorney911: Your Unfair Advantage in the Fight Against Hazing

When your child has been subjected to the trauma of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a strategic partner who can navigate complex legal battles against powerful institutions. Attorney911 is built for precisely this fight. We offer a distinctive combination of experience, insight, and unwavering commitment that makes us the clear choice for families in Floyd County, Virginia, facing the aftermath of hazing.

Here’s why we are your unfair advantage:

1. Unmatched Experience: Ralph P. Manginello – 25+ Years in the Courtroom

• Battle-Tested Trial Attorney: Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, brings over 25 years of courtroom experience. He has faced down formidable opponents in high-stakes litigation, including the multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP following the Texas City refinery explosion—a testament to his capacity to take on massive corporate defendants. This experience is directly transferable to hazing cases, where institutional negligence is often at play.
• Dual-State Bar Admissions (Texas AND New York): This unique qualification provides a strategic advantage when dealing with national fraternities and sororities that often have headquarters or significant operations outside Texas. It broadens our legal reach and deepens our understanding of multi-state legal challenges.
• Federal Court Admissions: Both Ralph and Lupe are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal authority means we can pursue hazing cases in federal court, offering another powerful avenue for justice, especially when incidents involve interstate organizations or federal civil rights violations. We can bring this federal leverage to bear on cases originating in Floyd County, Virginia.
• Journalism Background: Ralph’s initial training in journalism equipped him with a relentless drive to investigate, uncover facts, and tell a compelling story—skills essential for hazing cases where information is often hidden or suppressed.

2. Insider Knowledge: Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

• Ralph Manginello and Lupe Eleno Peña both honed their skills defending insurance companies and large corporations. Lupe, in particular, worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a national defense firm. This means they’ve seen the opposition’s playbook from the inside.
• Knowing Their Tactics: They understand precisely how insurance companies value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts. They know the manipulation tactics adjusted use. This insider knowledge allows them to anticipate the defense’s moves, dismantle their arguments, and negotiate from a position of strength to maximize recovery for our clients in Floyd County.

3. Specialized Hazing Expertise – Active and Proactive:

• Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit RIGHT NOW: The Leonel Bermudez case is not just a past success story; it’s an ongoing, active demonstration of our firm’s aggressive approach to hazing litigation. This isn’t theoretical; we’re in the trenches, fighting for a victim whose kidney function was compromised by hazing. Floyd County families can be assured they are getting representation from attorneys who are current experts in this niche and rapidly evolving field.
• Rhabdomyolysis Injury Recovery and Litigation: Ralph has specific expertise in cases involving rhabdomyolysis—precisely the debilitating injury sustained by Leonel Bermudez. This deep medical-legal knowledge ensures that the full impact of such injuries, including potential long-term complications and associated costs, is rigorously pursued.
• Experience with Major Fraternities: Our work shows a direct understanding of organizations like Pi Kappa Phi (the defendant in our current case), Kappa Sigma, and in-depth knowledge of hazing trends across various national Greek organizations.

4. Empathetic and Client-Centered Approach:

• “They Treat You Like Family”: Our Google reviews, boasting a 4.9-star rating from over 250 reviews, consistently highlight our firm’s compassionate and communicative approach. Clients repeatedly state they feel like “family” and appreciate our direct communication. For worried parents in Floyd County, choosing a firm that genuinely cares and keeps you informed is paramount.
• Bilingual Services (Se Habla Español): Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, ensuring that language barriers never stand in the way of justice for Hispanic families in Floyd County and beyond.
• No Upfront Cost (Contingency Fees): We understand that a hazing incident can create immense financial strain. We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely nothing upfront. We only get paid if and when we win your case. This removes the financial burden and levels the playing field against well-funded defendants. You can view a video explanation of this at How Contingency Fees Work.

5. Readiness to Serve Floyd County, Virginia:

• Nationwide Reach: While our headquarters are in Houston, we represent hazing victims across America, including Floyd County, Virginia. We utilize modern technology for remote consultations and are fully prepared to travel to Floyd County for depositions, client meetings, and trials when necessary. Distance will not deter our pursuit of justice.
• Proven Results – Not Just Talk: Our track record, from multi-million dollar wins against major corporations to securing deferred adjudications in criminal defense cases, demonstrates our aggressive approach and commitment to our clients.

When you choose Attorney911, you are not just hiring lawyers; you are gaining a dedicated team of former insiders who know how the opposition thinks, a fierce advocate with a quarter-century of courtroom experience, and a compassionate partner who sees your child as a person, not a payout. We are ready to fight for your family in Floyd County, just as we are fighting for Leonel Bermudez in Texas.

What to Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Floyd County Families

If your child in Floyd County, Virginia, has been the victim of hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, confused, or even paralyzed by fear. However, taking swift, decisive action can profoundly impact the strength and success of any future legal claim. Here are clear, actionable steps you should take:

Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Seek Immediate Medical Attention.

• Remove Your Child from the Situation: Ensure they are physically safe and away from any further harm or pressure from the perpetrators.
• Get Medical Help Immediately: Even if injuries seem minor or hidden, seek professional medical care without delay. This is paramount for your child’s health and crucial for documenting their injuries. Hazing-related injuries, like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis, can have delayed and severe consequences.
  • Document Everything Diagnosed: Ensure all symptoms, complaints, and diagnoses are clearly noted in medical records.
  • Follow All Medical Advice: Adhere strictly to doctor’s orders for treatment, follow-up appointments, and rehabilitation. Any deviation could be used by the defense to argue injuries were not serious. You can learn more about this in our video, “Why Seeing a Doctor Right After an Accident Is Critical,” available at our YouTube channel.

Step 2: Preserve ALL Evidence – “Document Everything!”

• Digital Communications: SAVE everything. Screenshots of text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat DMs, Instagram messages, emails, and any other digital communication relevant to the hazing. Do not delete anything, even if it seems insignificant.
• Photos and Videos: Take clear photos or videos of any physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, swelling) and anything related to the hazing (locations, objects used, damaged property). Continue to photograph the healing process. If your child is unable to, ask a trusted friend or family member to do it. Our video, “Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case?” (available at this link), emphasizes the importance of this.
• Witness Information: Collect names and contact information for anyone who witnessed the hazing, other pledges, or anyone who might have knowledge of the events. Their testimony can be invaluable.
• Physical Evidence: If possible and safe to do so, preserve any physical items related to the hazing, such as clothing, “pledge books,” or specific objects used in rituals.
• Financial and Academic Records: Keep records of all medical bills, therapy costs, and any lost wages if your child missed work. Document any impact on their academic performance, missed classes, or changes in enrollment status.

Step 3: Crucial “DO NOTs” to Protect Your Case.

• DO NOT Delete ANYTHING: Deleting messages or other digital content can be considered spoliation of evidence and severely harm your case.
• DO NOT Talk to Perpetrators or Organizational Leadership: Do not engage directly with the fraternity/sorority members, their leadership, chapter alumni, or university administrators without legal counsel. They are not on your side and are often trained to elicit information that can be used against you.
• DO NOT Give Statements: Do not give recorded statements, written accounts, or any official statements to the fraternity, the university, or their insurance companies. Let your attorney handle all communications.
  • Remember, their goal is to minimize their liability, not to help your child. Our video, “Never Talk to the Insurance Company After an Accident,” reinforces this critical warning.
• DO NOT Post on Social Media: Refrain from posting about the incident, your feelings, or any details of your case on social media platforms. Anything you post can and will be used by the defense to undermine your credibility or the severity of your child’s injuries. Our video, “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident,” explains why this is so vital.
• DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, university, or their representatives without your attorney’s review. You could inadvertently waive your child’s legal rights.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney IMMEDIATELY.

• Time is Critical: In most states, including Virginia, there is a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. If you don’t file a lawsuit within this timeframe, your child will lose their right to seek compensation forever. Evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and perpetrators coordinate their stories. The sooner you act, the stronger your case. Our video, “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?”, available at this link, explains this urgency.
• Free Consultation: Call us. The initial consultation is completely free and confidential. We will review your child’s situation, explain their rights, and discuss the best course of action without any obligation.
• We Will Come To You: Even though our primary offices are in Texas, we serve clients nationwide. We offer video consultations for families in Floyd County, and our attorneys will travel to Virginia for depositions, meetings, and trials as needed. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

Floyd County Families: Your Child’s Voice Deserves to Be Heard. We Are Here to Be Their Advocate.

Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Let us turn your family’s pain into powerful action and ensure accountability for those who caused this trauma.

Contact Us: Your First Step Towards Justice

If your family in Floyd County, Virginia, is reeling from the devastating impact of hazing, know this: you don’t have to face this alone. Every moment counts, and reaching out to the right legal team immediately is your most crucial step towards justice and accountability.

We are Attorney911. We are Legal Emergency Lawyers™. And we are here to help your family.

Our commitment to aggressive representation, deep legal insight, and genuine compassion for victims is unwavering. We have just demonstrated this in filing a $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This is not just a case; it’s a mission to hold every institution, every organization, and every individual responsible for the torment they inflict on students under the guise of “tradition.”

Floyd County Families — Call Now for a FREE, Confidential Consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

This hotline is available 24/7. We understand that emergencies don’t keep business hours, and worried parents are often searching for help at 2 AM. Do not hesitate to call us anytime.

Email: You can also reach us directly via email at ralph@atty911.com.

Website: Visit us at attorney911.com for more information and resources.

What to Expect When You Contact Us:

• Free Consultation: Your initial discussion with us will always be free. We will listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide an honest assessment of your legal options without any obligation.
• No Upfront Fees (Contingency Basis): We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay us a single dollar upfront. We only get paid if and when we win your case. This ensures that expert legal representation is accessible to every family, regardless of financial circumstances.
• Compassionate but Aggressive Advocacy: You’ll find our team—from our bilingual staff to our lead attorneys Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña—to be both empathetic to your trauma and fiercely dedicated to fighting for your rights.
• Nationwide Reach, Local Focus for Floyd County: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our federal court admissions and willingness to travel mean we can effectively represent families in Floyd County, Virginia, and across the country. We regularly conduct video consultations and will travel for depositions, client meetings, and trials wherever justice demands.
• Protecting Your Privacy: We understand the sensitive nature of hazing incidents. All communications with our firm are confidential, and we will protect your child’s privacy throughout the legal process.

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

If you were another pledge involved in the Pi Kappa Phi hazing at the University of Houston, or if you witnessed it, we know Leonel was not the only one. Another pledge lost consciousness on October 15. Others endured the same waterboarding, forced eating, and physical abuse. You have rights too. Your story matters. Call us. Let’s work together to ensure true accountability and prevent this from ever happening again.

As 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.”

Your voice can make a difference. Your call to 1-888-ATTY-911 is the first step.