If you’re reading this in Highland County, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college, to explore new ideas, and build a foundation for their future. Instead, they were tortured, humiliated, and physically harmed during a hazing ritual. We understand that chilling reality. We understand the fear, the anger, and the desperation that sends a parent searching for help in the middle of the night. We’re here to help families in Highland County, Pennsylvania, fight back.

At Attorney911, we are not just lawyers; we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™. We respond with immediate, aggressive help for legal emergencies, protecting the injured and defending the accused across America. Our commitment extends directly to Highland County, Pennsylvania, where we bring our extensive experience and unwavering dedication to every family facing the nightmare of hazing. While our offices are based in Texas, don’t let distance be a barrier. Our federal court authority and willingness to travel wherever justice demands mean that Highland County families receive the same aggressive, data-driven representation that defines our firm, especially in hazing cases.

The Haunting Echoes of Modern Hazing: A Warning to Highland County Families

Hazing is far from a harmless prank or a misunderstood rite of passage. It is a dangerous, often criminal, act that can derail young lives and shatter families. We’ve seen the devastating consequences firsthand, and we want families in Highland County, Pennsylvania, to understand that the threats are real, present, and insidious. Regardless of whether your child attends a university within Highland County or one of the many esteemed institutions across Pennsylvania or elsewhere in the country, the dangers of hazing are universal, yet they manifest with unsettling predictability.

When we talk about hazing, we’re not speaking in hypotheticals. We’re speaking from the front lines of an active battle against national fraternities, universities, and individuals who allow such heinous acts to occur. The case of Leonel Bermudez, filed in November 2025, is not just a lawsuit; it is the cornerstone of our mission, a stark and recent example of the barbaric realities of hazing in America, and a potent warning to every Highland County parent.

The Landmark Case: Attorney911 Battles Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston in a $10 Million Fight

This is not a theoretical exercise for us. This is happening right now. Within weeks of the hazing incident being reported, our firm, Attorney911, filed a $10 million lawsuit. This is the very fight we will bring to Highland County, Pennsylvania, if your child becomes a victim.

Leonel Bermudez was a “ghost rush,” a bright young man planning to transfer to the University of Houston for the spring semester. He had not even officially enrolled yet. He accepted a bid to the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, hoping for brotherhood and a sense of belonging. What he received instead was weeks of systematic abuse, humiliation, and physical torment that left him hospitalized for four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

We are suing the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (both the local University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter and the National Headquarters), the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity members, including the chapter president, pledgemaster, and even a former member and his spouse at whose residence some of the hazing occurred. This wide net of defendants reflects our commitment to holding every single responsible party accountable.

The media coverage of our lawsuit, featured on ABC13 Houston, KHOU 11, the Houston Chronicle, and Houston Public Media, underscores the severity and public interest in this case. Local news outlets are shining a light on actions that the University of Houston spokesperson themselves called “deeply disturbing” and representative of “a clear violation of our community standards.” Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, in their own statement, admitted to “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” They even closed the chapter. They knew. They just didn’t care enough to stop it before someone was gravely injured.

For Highland County families, this case is a critical warning. Pi Kappa Phi has over 150 chapters across America, including near some of Pennsylvania’s prominent universities. The same “traditions” that led to Leonel’s hospitalization happen at fraternities across the country, including those where youth from Highland County may attend. The same institutional failures we are exposing at the University of Houston exist at other universities. If your child is hazed, we will bring the same aggressive representation to Highland County.

As my colleague, Lupe Pena, powerfully stated to ABC13, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Our fight for Leonel Bermudez is aimed not only at securing justice for him but at sending a resounding message to every fraternity, university, and individual who thinks they can get away with this abuse.

The Horrific Timeline of Hazing: What Happened to Leonel Bermudez

The detailed timeline of Leonel Bermudez’s hazing ordeal paints a terrifying picture of sustained abuse:

September 16, 2025: Leonel accepts a bid to Pi Kappa Phi, beginning a torturous pledge period.
September 16 – November 3, 2025: Weeks of systematic hazing, abuse, and torture. During this time, pledges were subjected to an enforced dress code, mandatory study hours, weekly interviews, and being forced to drive fraternity members in the early morning hours, leading to severe exhaustion.
October 13, 2025: In a chilling foreshadowing, another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour during a hazing incident.
October 15, 2025: Tragically, another pledge lost consciousness and collapsed during a forced workout. Other pledges had to elevate his legs until he recovered, a clear warning sign ignored by those in charge.
Throughout this period, Leonel was subjected to:
- Waterboarding: Sprayed in the face with a garden hose while doing calisthenics, simulating drowning, a practice considered torture. Pledges were forced to run repeatedly under the threat of being waterboarded.
- Extreme Physical Punishment: This included being struck with wooden paddles, forced to do 100+ pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “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.
- Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns to the point of vomiting, then forced to run sprints while clearly in physical distress. He was even forced to lie in vomit-soaked grass.
- Psychological Torture and Humiliation: This included being forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather, and constantly carrying a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature.
November 3, 2025: The climax of the abuse. Leonel was subjected to an extreme workout as punishment for missing an event. He performed 100+ pushups, 500+ squats, various crawls and drills, until he was so exhausted he could not stand without help. He crawled up the stairs into his house.
November 4-5, 2025: Leonel’s condition worsened. He was “really sore and couldn’t really move,” and “the next day was worse,” as recounted by my colleague Ralph Manginello.
November 6, 2025: His mother rushed him to the hospital. He was passing brown urine, a critical sign of severe muscle breakdown. He was diagnosed with acute kidney failure and severe rhabdomyolysis and hospitalized for three nights and four days.
November 21, 2025: Our firm filed the $10 million lawsuit.

This disturbing chain of events underscores that hazing is not the benign activity some wish to portray. It is an act of violence, control, and psychological manipulation that puts young lives at severe risk. For parents in Highland County, Pennsylvania, the detailed accounts from this recent case serve as a grim warning about the reality students face today from organizations that purport to build character and community.

What Hazing Truly Looks Like Today: Beyond the Stereotypes and into the Shadows

Many parents, particularly those who may have participated in Greek life decades ago, harbor outdated notions of hazing—perhaps a harmless scavenger hunt or a night of silly rituals. We are here to tell you, as experts on hazing litigation, that this antiquated view is dangerously inaccurate. Hazing today, as evidenced by the Bermudez case and countless others across the nation, is often a brutal, calculated campaign of abuse designed to break down a person’s physical and psychological defenses.

This is not “boys being boys.” It is not “tradition.” It is not “building brotherhood.”
IT IS ASSAULT. IT IS BATTERY. IT IS TORTURE. IT IS RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT. AND TOO OFTEN, IT IS NEGLIGENT HOMICIDE OR MURDER.

The Categories of Modern Hazing:

Physical Abuse: This includes beatings, paddling, branding, burning, and forced exercise to the point of collapse and injury. Leonel Bermudez suffered extensive physical abuse, including being struck with wooden paddles and forced into extreme calisthenics.
Forced Consumption: Binge drinking, often mandatory, is a leading cause of hazing deaths. Pledges are forced to consume large amounts of alcohol, food, or even non-food substances. Leonel was forced to eat until he vomited, then made to continue physical activity in his own puke.
Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often kept awake for days or allowed only minimal sleep, impairing their judgment and increasing their vulnerability. Leonel was forced to drive members during early morning hours, contributing to his exhaustion.
Psychological Torture: Humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, isolation, and threats are common. Leonel’s experience with the fanny pack of sexual objects and being forced to strip to his underwear exemplifies this category.
Sexual Abuse: Forced nudity, sexual acts, or the handling of sexually explicit objects are shockingly prevalent. The objects in Leonel’s fanny pack directly fall into this abhorrent category.
Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As Leonel’s case tragically shows, simulated drowning with a garden hose is a real and terrifying tactic used by fraternities.
Exposure: Pledges are subjected to extreme cold or heat, confined in small spaces, or left stranded. Leonel was forced to strip in cold weather and hosed down.
Servitude: Forced cleaning, driving, and running errands for members are all forms of hazing that exploit pledges and strip them of their dignity and time.

The True Medical Consequences:

The physical abuse in hazing can lead to severe, life-threatening conditions:

Rhabdomyolysis & Acute Kidney Failure: This is precisely what Leonel Bermudez suffered – muscle breakdown that releases toxins into the bloodstream, leading to kidney shutdown. This is a medical emergency with potentially lifelong implications. My colleague, Ralph Manginello, has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases.
Alcohol Poisoning: The most common cause of hazing deaths, leading to brain damage, coma, and death.
Traumatic Brain Injury: Resulting from beatings, falls, or forced head trauma.
Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From exposure to extreme temperatures.
Cardiac Arrest: From extreme physical exertion beyond human limits.
Psychological Trauma: Long-term effects include PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation. Leonel’s fear of retribution, as reported by ABC13, is a direct consequence of this psychological harm.

The Disturbing Statistics:

Over 55% of students involved in Greek organizations experience hazing.
Over 40% of student athletes report being hazed.
Since the year 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every single year in the United States.
A staggering 95% of students who are hazed do NOT report it, often due to fear of retaliation, shame, or loyalty to the organization.
Hazing is not limited to fraternities; it occurs in sororities, sports teams, marching bands, ROTC, and other student groups.

The Institutional Cover-Up:

Universities and national organizations are not ignorant of these problems. They know hazing occurs. They have the power to stop it. Yet, they consistently fail to act until a tragedy forces their hand. Only then do they “suspend” chapters, hire PR firms, and claim they are “shocked” by the revelations. The Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters shut down their UH chapter a week before our lawsuit was even filed – a clear act of damage control, not genuine concern.

For families in Highland County, Pennsylvania, the bottom line is this: the reality of hazing is far more dangerous than you might imagine. Your children are not exempt from these risks, whether they attend a state university like Penn State or Temple, a private institution like Bucknell or Lafayette, or a university anywhere else in the nation, even locally at institutions like Allegheny College or Saint Francis University if a child from Highland County ventured there. The same national fraternities that perpetrate these acts operate on campuses across Pennsylvania.

Who Is Truly Responsible: Unmasking the Multi-Layered Negligence

When a hazing incident causes injury or death, the question inevitably arises: who can be held accountable? At Attorney911, our answer is simple and comprehensive: everyone who participated, everyone who allowed it, and every institution that turned a blind eye. We don’t just sue the individual college students involved; we target the powerful entities that enable such abuse.

In the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, this principle is clearly demonstrated. We are pursuing a broad range of defendants, from the individual students to the national fraternity and the university itself. This comprehensive approach is critical to ensuring maximum accountability and compensation for hazing victims in Highland County, Pennsylvania.

The Defendants and Their Forms of Liability:

The Local Chapter (e.g., Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu at UH):
- Direct Liability: The chapter directly organized, planned, and executed the hazing activities. Their members were the perpetrators.
- Vicarious Liability: The chapter is responsible for the actions of its members during chapter-sanctioned events.
Chapter Officers (e.g., President, Pledgemaster):
- Individual Liability: These individuals bear leadership responsibility. They directed the hazing, failed to stop it, or actively participated in it. As the Stone Foltz case tragically illustrates, individual chapter officers can be held personally liable for millions of dollars.
- Criminal Liability: Under Texas law, hazing that causes serious bodily injury is a Class A misdemeanor, and hazing that causes death is a State Jail Felony. The University of Houston spokesperson has already hinted at “potential criminal charges” in the Bermudez case.
Individual Members Who Participated:
- Individual Liability: Every person who actively participated in the hazing can be sued for assault, battery, and negligence. This includes the members who sprayed Leonel with the hose, forced him to exercise, or struck him with paddles.
Former Members and Their Spouses Who Hosted Hazing:
- Premises Liability: In the Bermudez case, hazing occurred at the private residence of a former fraternity member and his spouse. This makes them liable as property owners who allowed dangerous, illegal activity on their premises and failed to intervene. This broadens the scope of liability beyond just students or official fraternity property.
The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization (e.g., Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters):
- Negligent Supervision: The national organization has a duty to supervise its local chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, and ensure compliance with their own rules. Pi Kappa Phi National’s failure to prevent the hazing of Leonel Bermudez, despite knowing about a prior hazing death (Andrew Coffey in 2017) and an alleged “hazing crisis,” is a clear breach of this duty.
- Vicarious Liability: For the actions of its local chapter, especially when the national organization has a history of similar incidents.
- “Deep Pockets”: National fraternities possess substantial assets, endowments, and multi-million dollar liability insurance policies. They are often the primary targets for significant financial recovery.
The University or College (e.g., University of Houston, UH Board of Regents):
- Negligent Supervision/Oversight: Universities have a duty to ensure student safety, especially concerning activities by their recognized student organizations. UH’s failure came despite a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017 involving another fraternity on their campus. They knew hazing was a problem, yet failed to implement effective safeguards.
- Premises Liability: Critically, in the Bermudez case, the University of Houston directly owned the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place. This makes their liability undeniable for allowing dangerous and illegal activities on their own property. Universities in Highland County, Pennsylvania, or those attended by Highland County students, that own or control fraternity houses, or that turn a blind eye to activities on their campus, face similar exposure.
- Institutional Knowledge: When a university has a history of hazing incidents, it can no longer claim ignorance. Each incident creates a record of knowledge that should compel them to act.
- “Deep Pockets”: Universities, especially large public institutions, have substantial financial resources, endowments, and extensive insurance coverage for such liabilities.

The Power of “Deep Pockets”:

It’s important for Highland County families to understand that pursuing these cases is not about financially ruining individual college students. While individual perpetrators bear moral and legal responsibility, the significant financial compensation needed to cover medical bills, long-term care, lost education, and profound pain and suffering typically comes from the “deep pockets” of national organizations and universities, through their vast assets and liability insurance policies.

As former insurance defense attorneys, my colleague Lupe Peña and I possess invaluable insider knowledge of how these large institutions and their insurance carriers operate. We know their “playbook” because we used to be on their side. Now, we use that knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for victims, knowing exactly where to find the leverage and the funding.

If your child in Highland County, Pennsylvania, has been a victim of hazing, know that there are multiple avenues for accountability. We will aggressively pursue every entity responsible—from the students who committed the acts to the national organizations and universities that allowed them to flourish—just as we are doing in the landmark Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof for Highland County Families

The pain and suffering inflicted by hazing are immeasurable, but our legal system provides a path to financial compensation that can help victims and their families rebuild their lives and send a powerful message of accountability. For families in Highland County, it’s crucial to understand that these are not small claims. We are pursuing multi-million dollar recoveries because the costs of severe hazing—medical, psychological, educational, and emotional—are astronomical.

The landmark hazing cases of the past decade vividly demonstrate the scale of these awards, setting significant precedents that inform our strategies for victims in Highland County and nationwide. These powerful victories show both universities and national fraternities that the cost of negligence is steep.

Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha, 2021)

Total Recovery: Over $10.1 Million
What Happened: Stone Foltz, a pledge, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” event. He died of alcohol poisoning.
Breakdown: Bowling Green State University settled for $2.9 million, and Pi Kappa Alpha National, along with individual members, paid over $7.2 million. In a separate, recent development in December 2024, a former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million in damages based on the mere minutes Stone Foltz was conscious after hazing.
Significance for Highland County: This case sets a direct precedent for our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case, showing that such figures are achievable. It also proves that both universities and national fraternities, along with individual officers, will be held financially accountable.

Maxwell Gruver (Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta, 2017)

Total Recovery: $6.1 Million Verdict
What Happened: During a “Bible Study” drinking game, 18-year-old Max Gruver was forced to consume excessive alcohol for incorrect answers. He died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495—six times the legal limit.
Legal Outcome: A jury awarded his family $6.1 million. The case also led to criminal convictions and the passage of the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
Significance for Highland County: This jury verdict demonstrates that courts and communities are outraged by hazing and are willing to award substantial sums. The criminal conviction and legislative change underscore the severe societal consequences of such acts.

Timothy Piazza (Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi, 2017)

Total Recovery: Estimated $110 Million+ (Multiple Settlements)
What Happened: Timothy Piazza was forced to drink 18 shots in 82 minutes during a bid acceptance event. Highly intoxicated, he fell repeatedly, suffering fatal brain injuries. Fraternity brothers waited 12 hours to call 911, and the entire incident was captured on security cameras.
Legal Outcome: The family received a confidential settlement estimated at over $110 million. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, including involuntary manslaughter, with several receiving prison sentences. Pennsylvania passed the “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.”
Significance for Highland County: This is one of the largest hazing settlements ever recorded, highlighting the massive financial and legal repercussions for egregious conduct and institutional cover-ups. Strong evidence, such as the video footage in Piazza’s case, can significantly increase settlement figures.

Andrew Coffey (Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi, 2017)

Total Recovery: Confidential Settlement (Chapter Closed)
What Happened: Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge of Pi Kappa Phi (the same national fraternity as the Bermudez case), was forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during “Big Brother Night.” He died of acute alcohol poisoning.
Significance for Highland County: This is devastating for Pi Kappa Phi. It proves the national organization had full knowledge, dating back to 2017, that their chapters were engaging in deadly hazing rituals. Eight years later, Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized under their watch. This history establishes a clear pattern of negligence and provides strong grounds for punitive damages in our case to ensure this national organization pays a financial penalty that forces them to address their systemic problems.

Adam Oakes (Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi, 2021)

Total Recovery: $4 Million+ Settlement
What Happened: Adam Oakes died of alcohol poisoning at a Delta Chi fraternity party. The family initially filed a $28 million lawsuit.
Significance for Highland County: This recent settlement (October 2024) again shows that multi-million dollar payouts are becoming standard for hazing victims. It also demonstrates that initial demands can be much higher than the eventual settlement, which the defendants know.

UT Austin Sigma Chi (November 2025)

Status: Lawsuit Recently Filed
What Happened: An 18-year-old University of Texas at Austin freshman died by suicide after “horrific abuse” during hazing at the Sigma Chi fraternity.
Significance for Highland County: This tragic case, filed in the same week as the Bermudez lawsuit, underscores the pervasive and deadly nature of hazing, even extending to the psychological trauma that can lead to suicide. It also highlights hazing as a statewide problem in Texas, drawing more scrutiny to these organizations.

The Message to Highland County Families:

These cases underscore a critical point for parents in Highland County, Pennsylvania: If your child has been a victim of hazing, you are not alone, and there is a proven path to justice and compensation. The multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in these cases prove that when victims and their families stand up, they can force institutions to pay and make much-needed changes.

We bring this proven track record and knowledge of these precedents directly to Highland County. Whether your child faces physical injury, psychological trauma, or wrongful death due to hazing, we will leverage these powerful examples to fight for the maximum possible compensation your family deserves. These results are not just for specific cases; they represent a national standard of accountability that we will demand for you.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights Beyond “Consent”

For Highland County families, understanding the legal framework surrounding hazing is crucial, especially when national fraternities or universities might try to deflect blame. While our firm is based in Texas, the principles of law—particularly concerning negligence, assault, and liability—apply across the nation. Moreover, strong anti-hazing laws like those in Texas empower victims, and similar statutes exist in many states, including Pennsylvania.

Texas Hazing Laws: A Model for Accountability

Texas has robust anti-hazing laws designed to protect students and hold perpetrators accountable. These are codified in the Texas Education Code, Sections 37.151 through 37.157.

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151):
Texas law defines hazing broadly as “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act… directed against a student for the purpose of pledging… if the act:

Involves physical brutality (e.g., whipping, beating, striking, branding).
Involves sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement, calisthenics, or similar activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or adversely affects mental or physical health.
Involves forced consumption of substances (food, liquids, alcohol) that poses an unreasonable risk of harm.
Involves any activity that violates the Penal Code.
Involves coercing a student to consume drugs or excessive alcohol leading to intoxication.

How the Bermudez Case Aligns with this Definition:
Leonel Bermudez’s ordeal checkmarks nearly every item on this list:

He was struck with wooden paddles (physical brutality).
He suffered sleep deprivation and exposure to cold (exposure to elements).
His 500+ squats and other exercises unequivocally fall under calisthenics causing “unreasonable risk of harm,” directly leading to rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure.
He was subjected to forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting.
The waterboarding, being hog-tied, and other acts likely constitute violations of the Penal Code (assault).

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152):
Texas law imposes severe criminal penalties for hazing:

Class B Misdemeanor: For merely engaging in hazing, or failing to report it, carrying up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes “serious bodily injury,” like Leonel Bermudez’s kidney failure, perpetrators face up to 1 year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
State Jail Felony: If hazing causes death, carrying 180 days to 2 years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
The law also holds organizations accountable: a chapter can commit an offense if it “condones or encourages hazing.” Penalties can include fines up to $10,000, denial of operating rights, and forfeiture of property. This is why we can target the Pi Kappa Phi local chapter and National Headquarters.

Universities Must Report (§ 37.155):
University chief administrative officers are legally required to report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days. Failure to do so is a Class B misdemeanor, highlighting the institutional responsibility.

The Critical “Consent Is NOT A Defense” Clause (§ 37.154)

This is perhaps one of the most powerful provisions in Texas hazing law, and it directly combats the insidious defense tactic often employed by fraternities and universities:

“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.”

For Highland County parents, this means: no matter what a fraternity (or its lawyers) tries to claim—”he agreed to participate,” “he knew what he was getting into,” “he could have left”—the law explicitly states that a victim cannot legally consent to being hazed. This provision recognizes the immense power imbalance, peer pressure, and psychological manipulation inherent in hazing. When acts of hazing occur, they are illegal and criminal, regardless of any coerced “consent.”

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Prosecution

Beyond criminal charges, hazing victims in Highland County, Pennsylvania, can pursue civil lawsuits for damages:

Negligence Claims: This is the most common civil claim. We must prove that the defendants (universities, national organizations, individuals) owed a duty of care to the student, breached that duty through their actions or inactions (by organizing/allowing hazing), and that this breach directly caused the student’s injuries and damages. Leonel’s kidney failure directly resulted from the gross negligence of Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston.
Premises Liability: As the University of Houston owned the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place, they are liable for failing to maintain a safe environment on their property. This principle applies to any university in Pennsylvania or across the country that owns or supervises fraternity housing where hazing occurs.
Negligent Supervision: National organizations have a duty to supervise their chapters, and universities have a duty to supervise Greek life. Their failure to enforce policies and prevent known dangers constitutes negligent supervision.
Assault and Battery: Individual perpetrators can be sued for intentional harmful contact (assault) and unwanted physical contact (battery). Waterboarding, paddling, or forced physical exertion are clear examples.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For acts so extreme and outrageous that they cause severe emotional distress, such as the psychological torture Leonel endured, victims can pursue this claim.
Wrongful Death: In tragic cases where hazing leads to death, families can pursue wrongful death claims for their immeasurable losses.

The legal landscape surrounding hazing is designed to protect students and hold responsible parties accountable. While the specifics of state laws might vary, the fundamental principles that enable us to aggressively pursue justice for Leonel Bermudez apply to hazing victims regardless of their location, whether in Highland County, Pennsylvania, or anywhere else. Our federal court admissions and dual-state bar licenses mean we can navigate these complex legal waters with authority and bring our fight to your child’s case, wherever it needs to be heard.

Why Attorney911 Is the Obvious Choice for Highland County Hazing Victims

When your child has been subjected to the horrors of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the nuances of hazing litigation, who knows the playbook of the defense, and who isn’t afraid to take on powerful institutions. For families in Highland County, Pennsylvania, Attorney911 offers a unique blend of experience, insight, and dedication that makes us the clear choice for pursuing justice.

Our Unmatched Credentials and Strategic Advantages:

25+ Years of Courtroom Experience: My colleague Ralph Manginello brings over two decades of battle-tested experience to the courtroom. This extensive trial experience means we are never intimidated by the prospect of taking a case to trial, a critical factor when dealing with insurance companies who often try to settle for less. We are ready to bring this proven expertise to Highland County cases.
Former Insurance Defense Insight: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are former insurance defense attorneys. This is our “secret weapon.” We literally know how the other side thinks because we used to be the other side. We understand how national fraternities, universities, and their insurance carriers evaluate claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts. We use this invaluable insider knowledge to dismantle their arguments and maximize recovery for our clients. For Highland County defendants, we know their playbook.
Federal Court Admissions: Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and experience in the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals, means we have the authority to pursue complex cases in federal courts. This is crucial for hazing cases that often involve national organizations, allowing us to pursue justice for Highland County victims without geographic limitations.
Dual-State Bar Admission (Texas AND New York): This dual licensing provides a strategic advantage, particularly when litigating against national fraternities and sororities that may be headquartered or incorporated in various states. It demonstrates our capacity to operate efficiently and effectively across state lines, a clear benefit for complex hazing cases that may span multiple jurisdictions for Highland County families.
High-Profile Case Experience Against Massive Corporations: Ralph Manginello’s involvement in the BP Texas City Explosion litigation—a multi-billion dollar mass tort against a massive corporate defendant following a catastrophe that killed 15 and injured over 180—proves our capacity to handle high-stakes cases against the largest institutional defendants. The skills developed in such a complex, high-pressure environment are directly applicable to taking on national Greek organizations and major universities for Highland County victims.
Proven Results in Hazing-Specific Cases: We are not hypothetically interested in hazing cases; we are actively litigating one right now. The $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for what happened to Leonel Bermudez is proof of our commitment and expertise. This isn’t theoretical; this is real-time, aggressive representation. My colleague, Ralph Manginello, has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases.
“Se Habla Español”: For the diverse communities of Highland County, including its Hispanic residents, our bilingual staff ensure that language is never a barrier to justice. We provide comprehensive legal services in Spanish, ensuring clear communication and comfortable representation for Spanish-speaking families affected by hazing.
Deep Understanding of Greek Life Culture: Ralph’s background as a Hall of Fame athlete and youth coach gives him an understanding of team dynamics, social pressures, and the environments where hazing often occurs, providing unique insight into dismantling fraternity defenses. My experience as a father of three further fuels our personal commitment to protecting young individuals.
Aggressive Approach to Evidence: From exposing flaws in police breathalyzer maintenance in DWI cases to dismantling prosecution cases through aggressive pre-trial litigation, our firm’s history is one of meticulously challenging evidence and uncovering the truth. This aggressive evidence-challenging approach is directly applied to hazing investigations, where institutions frequently attempt to hide, minimize, or destroy critical evidence.
Staff & Culture: Our team, including Leonor and our other dedicated staff, are friendly, empathetic, and genuinely passionate about helping our clients. We treat Highland County families like our own, offering consistent communication and making sure you feel heard and supported throughout the entire process. Just check our 4.9-star Google rating with over 250 reviews in Houston, where clients consistently praise our responsiveness and care.

We Come to You, Highland County:

While our primary offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, distance is not a barrier to justice. We offer video consultations for Highland County families, and our attorneys are prepared to travel to Highland County, Pennsylvania, for depositions, meetings, and trials whenever necessary.

Contingency Fees: No Upfront Cost for Highland County Families:

We understand that facing a legal battle against powerful institutions can seem financially daunting, especially during a time of crisis. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless and until we win your case. This levels the playing field, ensuring that every Highland County family has access to top-tier legal representation, regardless of their current financial situation. We take the risk, so you don’t have to.

We are Attorney911. We are Legal Emergency Lawyers™. We are actively fighting the biggest names in hazing, and we are ready to fight for your family in Highland County, Pennsylvania.

What to Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Highland County Hazing Victims and Families

If you are reading this, it likely means your family in Highland County, Pennsylvania, is grappling with the devastating aftermath of a hazing incident. The moments immediately following such an event are critical. What you do—or don’t do—can significantly impact your ability to seek justice and compensation. We understand that you may be scared, overwhelmed, or even deeply ashamed. But please know that you are not alone, and there are concrete steps you can take right now to protect your rights.

This isn’t about blaming you or your child; it’s about empowering you with the knowledge to fight back against those who caused harm.

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Attention

Remove Your Child From Harm’s Way: If the hazing environment is ongoing or there’s a threat of retaliation, ensure your child is physically safe and removed from that situation immediately.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if the injuries seem minor or “just soreness,” get a professional medical evaluation. Many serious injuries, like Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, may not be immediately apparent. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some conditions have delayed symptoms.
- Go to the Emergency Room: If there’s any doubt, go to an ER. They can document injuries objectively.
- Be Honest with Medical Staff: Clearly state that the injuries were caused by hazing or forced activities involving a fraternity/club.
- Document Everything: Keep copies of all medical records, bills, prescriptions, and therapist notes. These are crucial for your legal case.

Step 2: Preserve ALL Evidence — This Is Non-Negotiable

The digital age means that much of the evidence will be found on phones and social media. This evidence disappears quickly.

Do NOT Delete Anything: This is the most crucial piece of advice. Do not delete text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat stories, Instagram DMs, emails, or any other digital communications related to the hazing. If anything looks incriminating, the perpetrators will try to delete it.
Take Screenshots: Actively screenshot conversations, posts, photos, and videos. Save them outside of the application (e.g., email them to yourself, save to a cloud drive like Google Drive or Dropbox).
Photograph and Video Record:
- Injuries: Take clear photos and videos of all physical injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling, rashes, even unusual urine color like Leonel’s brown urine) at the time they occur, and continue to document their healing process.
- Locations: If safe to do so, document the locations where hazing occurred (fraternity house, specific rooms, fields).
- Physical Evidence: Keep any items used in the hazing, clothing worn during the incident, alcohol containers, etc.
Identify Witnesses: Write down the names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the hazing, other pledges, or people who might know about it. Their testimony can be invaluable.
Document the Narrative: Have your child write down everything they remember about the hazing incident(s) in as much detail as possible, including dates, times, locations, who was involved, what was said, and what happened. Memories fade, so do this as soon as possible.
Financial Records: Keep track of all expenses related to the hazing (medical bills, lost wages, tuition, therapy costs).

Step 3: Crucial “Do NOTs”

These actions can severely harm your case:

Do NOT Speak to the Fraternity/Sorority Leadership: They are not your friends. They will try to get you to sign waivers, minimize the incident, or pressure your child into silence.
Do NOT Speak to University Administration Alone: University officials are primarily concerned with protecting the institution’s reputation, not your child’s well-being. Any statements given to them can be used against your case later. Refer all inquiries to your attorney.
Do NOT Sign ANYTHING: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, university, or their representatives without having your own attorney review them first.
Do NOT Post on Social Media: Anything you or your child posts on social media can and will be used by the defense to discredit your claims. Stay completely silent on social media about the incident until your case is resolved.
Do NOT Confront Perpetrators Directly: This can escalate the situation, destroy evidence, or even lead to further harm. Let your legal team handle all communications.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Hazing Litigation Attorney Immediately

Time is of the essence.

Statute of Limitations: In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases is typically two years from the date of injury or death. Similar deadlines exist in Pennsylvania and other states. Missing this deadline means you lose your right to sue forever. Don’t wait.
Evidence Disappears: The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to gather crucial evidence. Witnesses’ memories fade, digital evidence is deleted, and organizations clean up their acts.
Free Consultation: We offer a completely free, confidential consultation. There is no obligation, and no cost to speak with us about your child’s hazing incident in Highland County, Pennsylvania.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911, 24/7.
Our team is ready to listen, evaluate your case, and guide you through the next steps. We will handle all communications with the involved parties, conduct a thorough investigation, and build a powerful case for justice.

For families in Highland County, Pennsylvania, dealing with a hazing incident is traumatic. Let us shoulder the legal burden, so you can focus on your child’s healing and recovery. Your child didn’t deserve this, and together, we will demand accountability.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline for Highland County Hazing Victims

🚨 Highland County Families: Have You or Your Child Been Hazed?

You are likely feeling overwhelmed, angry, and betrayed. Your instincts are telling you to act, to protect your child, and to fight for justice. Listen to those instincts. What happened to your child was not a prank; it was a crime, and it demands immediate action.

Our firm is actively engaged in the fight against hazing right now, as evidenced by our $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical – we are in the courtroom, leveraging our expertise and resources to hold powerful institutions accountable for their egregious failures. We bring this same level of aggressive, dedicated representation to every hazing victim and family we serve, including those in Highland County, Pennsylvania.

Your Legal Emergency Starts Here:

📞 DIAL 1-888-ATTY-911 NOW

Attorney911 is available 24/7 for Highland County hazing emergencies. There is no wrong time to call. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights and preserving critical evidence.

Email: ralph@atty911.com

Website: attorney911.com

WE WORK ON CONTINGENCY: “$0 Upfront for Highland County Families”

We understand that you are already facing tremendous emotional and possibly financial strain. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis.

You pay us absolutely $0 upfront.
We don’t get paid unless and until YOU get paid.
This means there is no financial barrier to securing top-tier legal representation from a firm that has proven its ability to take on national fraternities and universities. We take the risk, so your family in Highland County doesn’t have to.

No Matter Where You Are in Highland County, We Can Help:

While our offices are headquartered in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our reach extends far beyond state lines. Hazing is a national crisis, and its impact is felt in communities like Highland County throughout Pennsylvania, and across the United States.

Federal Court Authority: Our admission to federal courts allows us to pursue complex cases that involve national organizations, regardless of where they are headquartered.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: With attorneys licensed in both Texas and New York, we possess a strategic advantage in navigating national litigation.
Video Consultations: For your convenience and privacy, we offer remote video consultations, making it easy for Highland County families to connect with us from anywhere.
We Come to You: When necessary for depositions, client meetings, or trials, our dedicated legal team is prepared to travel to Highland County, Pennsylvania. Distance will not be a barrier to securing the justice you deserve.

Hazing Is Not Limited to Fraternities:

We represent victims of hazing in a wide array of organizations, wherever it occurs, including:

Fraternities and sororities at universities throughout Pennsylvania and nationwide.
Sports teams, from high school to collegiate levels, in Highland County and beyond.
Marching bands and other performance groups.
ROTC programs and military academies.
Any club, organization, or group that uses abuse, degradation, or harmful activities as part of an initiation or membership process.

A Message to Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

We know Leonel Bermudez was not the only one. Our lawsuit describes an environment where another pledge collapsed on October 15, and others were subjected to the same waterboarding, forced eating, physical abuse, and humiliation. If you or someone you know was a victim of hazing by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter at the University of Houston, you have rights too.

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.”

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

Don’t let fear, shame, or loyalty prevent you from seeking help. The legal clock is ticking. Evidence disappears. Memories fade. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Protect your child’s future, and hold those responsible accountable. Contact Attorney911 today. Your call is confidential, your consultation is free, and your fight is our fight.