If you’re reading this in Prince George 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 grow, to learn. Instead, they were brutalized by hazing, enduring physical and psychological torment that left them injured, traumatized, or worse. We understand what you’re going through. Your child deserves justice, and you deserve answers. At Attorney911, we are here to help families in Prince George County fight back against the fraternities, sororities, universities, and individuals who cause such profound harm. We are actively fighting these battles right now, and we bring that same aggressive, data-driven representation to every victim, no matter where they are.

The Haunting Echoes of Hazing: What Families in Prince George County Need to Understand

Hazing is not a tradition. It is not a rite of passage. It is abuse, plain and simple, and it has devastating consequences for students and their families across America, including here near Prince George County. We have seen firsthand the deep emotional and physical scars that hazing leaves behind. Parents in Prince George County send their children to institutions of higher learning, trusting that these environments will foster growth and safety. Yet, far too often, that trust is betrayed by dangerous practices masquerading as “brotherhood” or “sisterhood.”

We know that when you discover your child has been hazed, the shock, anger, and fear can be overwhelming. You might feel isolated, unsure where to turn. That’s why we’re here. We want families in Prince George County to know that they are not alone, and there is a path to justice. Our firm, Attorney911, is dedicated to aggressively representing hazing victims and their families, ensuring that every responsible party is held accountable.

We are not just talking about hazing; we are fighting it in the courts right now. Our landmark $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston serves as a stark warning to organizations nationwide that these actions will not go unpunished. The same patterns of negligence, the same national fraternities, and the same institutional failures that led to our client’s hospitalization in Houston can occur at institutions where Prince George County students attend. We want Prince George County families to understand what this looks like and how we can help.

The Landmark Case in Houston: A Warning to Prince George County Families and Institutions

Attorney911 is Fighting This Battle Right Now – The Same Fight We’ll Bring to Prince George County

This is not a hypothetical scenario; this is a case we filed just weeks ago in a Houston courtroom, making headlines across Texas. The incidents in this case are not isolated to a single university or a single state. The horrifying realities of hazing are universal, and they deeply affect students and families everywhere.

Prince George County Families: This is what hazing looks like today. This happened in Houston, a major metropolitan area not unlike others your children might encounter for college. The same national fraternities operate at universities that Prince George County students attend. The same institutional negligence exists at colleges and universities where your children are pursuing their education. We will bring the same aggressive, data-driven, and relentless fight to Prince George County victims that we are bringing to this case.

📰 Media Coverage of the Bermudez Case: We Are Making Headlines

Our case has drawn significant media attention, bringing the hidden horrors of hazing into the public eye. This media coverage reinforces the seriousness of these incidents and our firm’s commitment to exposing the truth.

Source	Date	Link
ABC13 Houston	November 21-22, 2025	Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges
KHOU 11	November 21, 2025	$10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations
Houston Public Media	November 24, 2025	University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing

Even the defendant, Pi Kappa Phi National, released a statement in response, confirming their chapter’s closure:

Source	Date	Link
Pi Kappa Phi National (DEFENDANT)	November 21, 2025	Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston

The Defendants: Who We Are Holding Accountable

We have filed a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court on November 21, 2025. Our firm, Attorney911, with attorneys Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, is actively pursuing justice against every entity that contributed to this horrifying incident. Our legal strategy is to cast a wide net, ensuring all responsible parties are brought to justice.

The Defendants in Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al. include:

Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity: The national organization, responsible for oversight and policies.
Pi Kappa Phi (University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter): The local chapter that directly conducted the hazing.
Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation: The entity that owns or controls the property where some of the hazing occurred.
University of Houston: The institution responsible for student safety and oversight of student organizations.
University of Houston Board of Regents: The governing body with institutional oversight failures.
Fraternity President, Pledgemaster, and other current members: Individuals who directly orchestrated or participated in the hazing.
Former members and a spouse: Including those who allowed hazing to occur at their private residence, expanding the scope of liability beyond campus borders.

The Victim: Leonel Bermudez’s Story

Leonel Bermudez was a young man with aspirations, preparing to transfer to the University of Houston for the upcoming semester. He was a “ghost rush,” meaning he wasn’t even an enrolled student yet, making the fraternity’s actions all the more egregious. He accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi on September 16, 2025, hoping to build friendships and find community. What he found instead was weeks of systematic abuse and torture that landed him in the hospital for three nights and four days.

Attorney Ralph Manginello described the chilling aftermath: “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.”

His diagnosis was severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, a life-threatening condition caused by extreme physical exertion. Mr. Bermudez’s urine was brown, a classic symptom of significant muscle breakdown, and his creatine kinase levels were alarmingly high. This isn’t just a minor injury; this is a severe medical emergency with potential long-term health consequences for a young man starting his life.

Mr. Peña, our co-counsel, emphasized our firm’s mission: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” We believe that Leonel’s courage to speak out can prevent another Prince George County family from experiencing similar devastation.

Why this case resonates deeply with Prince George County families:

The Perpetrators Are Everywhere: Pi Kappa Phi is a national fraternity with over 150 chapters across America, including near universities where Prince George County students matriculate. The destructive “traditions” that led to Leonel’s hospitalization are often perpetuated across these chapters.
Universities Are Accountable: Just as the University of Houston owned the fraternity house where some of this hazing occurred, universities your children attend near Prince George County have a responsibility to keep students safe. They have the power to regulate, suspend, or even ban organizations, and they are liable when they fail to protect students.
National Organizations Have a Pattern: Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters immediately suspended and dissolved the chapter after Bermudez’s hospitalization. This reactive measure proves they inherently knew the conduct was wrong. However, this same national organization also had a student, Andrew Coffey, die in one of their hazing incidents in 2017 – meaning they have a documented, deadly track record.
Victims Are Silenced: Our client, Leonel, fears retribution for speaking out. This fear is a common and cruel component of hazing culture, creating a wall of silence that allows abuse to continue. Prince George County victims face this same fear, but we are here to protect them.
Your Case Can Save Lives: Leonel’s story, and our fight for him, can empower other victims and ultimately prevent future tragedies. Your Prince George County case against hazing could be the catalyst for broader change.
A $10 Million Message: Our $10 million lawsuit isn’t just about compensation; it’s about sending an undeniable message about the severe cost of such abuses. This is the financial price for torturing our kids, and Prince George County families have the right to send the same message when their children are harmed.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond Pranks, It’s Torture

Many parents in Prince George County might envision hazing as harmless pranks or minor inconveniences, perhaps a bit of forced silly behavior or mild discomfort. The truth is far more sinister. Hazing has evolved into systematic abuse and torture that impacts students’ physical and mental health, with some incidents leading to devastating injuries or even death.

The Terrifying Reality of the Bermudez Case: What Was Done to Leonel

The hazing documented in our lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston is a chilling example of the current reality. It reveals tactics that cross the line from ritual to outright torture. These are not “boys being boys” – these are acts of calculated cruelty, designed to break down a person’s will and inflict suffering.

Here are some of the brutal hazing activities Leonel Bermudez was forced to endure:

Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” sprayed directly in the face while performing strenuous calisthenics. This is a tactic widely recognized internationally as torture, simulating the horror of drowning. The Houston Public Media, reporting on our case, explicitly stated: “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.”
Extreme Physical Punishment: He was forced to perform over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (running drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. This was not exercise; it was forced exertion designed to break him. He described being “exercised past the point of physical exhaustion,” collapsing and being unable to stand on his own. During these drills, pledges were also struck with wooden paddles.
Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Leonel was compelled to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. This horrific act didn’t end there; he was then forced to continue running sprints in his own vomit-soaked grass, a profound act of degradation.
Psychological Torture and Humiliation: Leonel was forced to carry a “fanny pack that held objects of a sexual nature at all times.” Other pledges experienced equally disturbing acts, such as one being “hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.” He was also forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather, enhancing his physical discomfort and humiliation. These acts are designed to strip individuals of their dignity and autonomy.
Sleep Deprivation and Exhaustion: Pledges, including Leonel, were compelled to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, leading to severe exhaustion. This systematic sleep deprivation further weakened their physical and mental state, making them more vulnerable to abuse.
Threats and Coercion: All of these “tasks” were carried out under the constant threat of physical punishment and/or expulsion from the fraternity if he failed to comply. This psychological manipulation is a core component of hazing, trapping victims in a cycle of abuse.

The immediate consequence of this torture for Leonel Bermudez was rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, requiring a four-day hospitalization. He passed brown urine, a classic and alarming sign of muscle breakdown. The physical toll was severe, leaving him unable to move or even walk. The psychological damage, including fear of retribution, is an ongoing battle.

The Broader Crisis: Hazing Statistics

What happened to Leonel is far from an isolated incident. The statistics paint a grim picture of a pervasive problem:

Prevalence: Over 55% of students involved in Greek organizations experience hazing. Hazing is not limited to fraternities and sororities; it also occurs in athletic teams, marching bands, ROTC programs, and various clubs and student organizations.
Severity: Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every year in the United States. These are not “accidents” but direct consequences of reckless behavior.
Underreporting: A staggering 95% of students who are hazed do NOT report it. The culture of secrecy, fear of retribution, and loyalty (often misplaced) perpetuates the cycle of abuse.

Medical Consequences of Hazing: Life-Altering Injuries

The severe BGA hazing that our client endured resulted in a traumatic medical condition. The consequences of hazing can be medically devastating:

Rhabdomyolysis: As seen in Leonel’s case, extreme physical exertion can lead to muscle breakdown, releasing toxins into the bloodstream that cause kidney damage. This can result in permanent kidney dysfunction or even death.
Acute Kidney Failure: A direct, life-threatening complication of rhabdomyolysis, requiring urgent medical intervention and potentially long-term dialysis or transplant.
Alcohol Poisoning: Forced binge drinking is a leading cause of hazing deaths, leading to coma, brain damage, and organ failure.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From beatings, falls during forced activities, or alcohol-induced accidents.
Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: Exposure to extreme weather conditions, as with Leonel being forced to strip in the cold, can lead to severe body temperature dysregulation.
Cardiac Arrest: Extreme physical stress, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances can trigger heart failure.
PTSD, Anxiety, Depression: The psychological trauma can be profound and enduring, leading to long-term mental health challenges that require extensive therapy.
Sexual Trauma: Forced nudity, sexual acts, and sexual assault are tragically part of some hazing rituals, leaving deep psychological wounds.
Death: The ultimate, irreversible consequence, which tragically occurs every year.

This is not a game. This is not tradition. This is abuse that wrecks lives. Prince George County families need to be aware that these are the true stakes of hazing.

Who Is Responsible? Holding Every Participant and Enabler Accountable

When hazing leaves a student injured or dead, you might wonder who can actually be held legally responsible. The answer, as demonstrated in our $10 million lawsuit, is often everyone who participated, facilitated, or failed to prevent the abuse. We intentionally cast a wide net to ensure comprehensive accountability.

In hazing litigation, we pursue multiple layers of defendants. This strategy targets not only the individuals who directly inflict harm but also the institutions that enable such behavior through negligence, indifference, or a culture of silence.

Direct Perpetrators: The Individual Members

These are the students who perform the hazing acts. In our Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit, we have named:

The Fraternity President: As a leader, he is responsible for the chapter’s activities and culture. His direct oversight or allowance of hazing makes him culpable.
The Pledgemaster: This individual is specifically tasked with managing the pledge process, meaning they directly orchestrated the hazing activities.
Current and Former Members: Any individual who actively participated in, condoned, or failed to intervene in the hazing can be held personally liable for assault, battery, and negligence.
Former Members and Their Spouses: In our Bermudez case, former members and even a spouse were named because hazing occurred at their off-campus private residence, meaning they permitted or encouraged the abuse on their property. This expands the scope of liability beyond campus settings.

Why individual accountability matters: The Stone Foltz case at Bowling Green State University resulted in a $6.5 million personal judgment against the chapter president. This proves that individuals cannot hide behind the fraternity’s letters.

The Local Chapter: The Immediate Organizational Unit

The local Beta Nu chapter of Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston is a primary defendant. This is the organizational unit that:

Directly planned and executed the hazing schedule.
Fostered a culture where such abuse was considered acceptable or even mandatory.
Failed to protect its own pledges.

The chapter is vicariously liable for the actions of its members and directly liable for its failure to prevent hazing.

The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization: The “Deep Pockets”

National Greek letter organizations are often major defendants because they possess substantial financial resources and are responsible for overseeing their local chapters. In our Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit, the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (National Headquarters) and its Housing Corporation are key defendants.

Failure to Supervise: The national organization has a duty to ensure its chapters comply with anti-hazing policies. When they fail to adequately train, monitor, or discipline chapters, they are liable.
Knowledge of Prior Incidents (Pattern Evidence): In our case, Pi Kappa Phi National had actual knowledge of a prior hazing death (Andrew Coffey in 2017) and allegations of a “hazing crisis.” Their failure to prevent another severe incident for 8 years demonstrates deliberate indifference.
Deep Pockets: These national entities have millions in assets and comprehensive liability insurance policies, making them a viable source of compensation for victims.

Their public statement, closing the chapter just days before our lawsuit, serves as an admission of their awareness and an attempt to mitigate liability, but it does not absolve them.

The University or College: The Enabler of the Environment

Universities have a profound responsibility for the safety and well-being of their students. The University of Houston and the UH Board of Regents are named defendants for several critical reasons:

Premises Liability: Crucially, the University of Houston owned and controlled the fraternity house where significant hazing activities occurred. This establishes a clear premises liability claim, as a landlord has a duty to maintain safe conditions on its property.
Failure to Protect: Universities have the power to regulate, suspend, or permanently remove student organizations. Their failure to enforce anti-hazing policies, monitor Greek life, or respond effectively to past incidents constitutes negligence. The University of Houston had a previous hazing incident in 2017 involving another fraternity (Pi Kappa Alpha), where a student was hospitalized with a lacerated spleen. This prior incident put the university on actual notice of hazing dangers on its campus, yet they failed to implement effective safeguards.
Institutional Indifference: University administrations often prioritize public image, alumni donations, and the perceived benefits of Greek life over student safety. Their spokesperson’s statement acknowledging “deeply disturbing” violations but already coordinating with the fraternity highlights this institutional indifference.

Colleges and universities in Prince George County that host Greek life or student organizations have these same duties and liabilities.

The Insurance Carriers: Where the Money Resides

Behind every organizational defendant are powerful insurance policies designed to cover such liabilities. These include:

National Organization’s Liability Insurance: Covering the national fraternity’s negligence and oversight failures.
University’s Institutional Insurance: Covering claims against the university for negligence, premises liability, and failure to protect students.
Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance: For individuals who hosted hazing activities at their private residences.
Personal Umbrella Policies: Additional liability coverage for affluent individuals.

As attorneys with a background in insurance defense, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena possess an insider’s understanding of how these companies operate. We know how to identify these policies, navigate their complexities, and aggressively pursue maximum compensation.

For Prince George County families, this means: Even if the direct perpetrators seem like “just college kids” with limited assets, the larger organizations and their insurance policies represent the “deep pockets” necessary to secure meaningful compensation for severe injuries and wrongful death. Our multi-defendant strategy is designed to ensure all liable parties contribute to your family’s recovery.

What These Cases Win: Justice and Millions in Damages

When a child is injured or dies due to hazing, the financial and emotional toll on a family is immeasurable. Our goal at Attorney911 is to ensure that victims and their families not only receive justice but also full financial compensation for their suffering. We draw upon decades of precedent from across the country to demonstrate that hazing cases can and do result in multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. For Prince George County families, these precedents prove that aggressive litigation can hold powerful institutions accountable.

The Message to Prince George County Fraternities, Universities, and National Organizations: Hazing Costs Millions. We Have the Receipts.

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

Total Recovery: $10.1 Million+

Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old student at Bowling Green State University, died in March 2021 after a Pi Kappa Alpha “Big/Little” initiation event where he was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol. He was found unresponsive the next morning and died from alcohol poisoning.

Bowling Green State University settled with the family for $2.9 million, marking the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history.
Pi Kappa Alpha National and several individual members contributed to an additional $7.2 million in settlements.
Most recently, in December 2024, a judgment of $6.5 million was issued against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, for his personal role in the incident.

Relevance to Prince George County: This case directly supports our own $10 million demand. It shows that both universities and national fraternities are willing to pay significant amounts, even in cases that don’t go to criminal conviction for every member. And critically, it demonstrates that chapter officers face serious personal financial exposure.

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

Jury Verdict: $6.1 Million

Maxwell Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman at LSU, died in September 2017 from acute alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.495) during a Phi Delta Theta hazing event called “Bible Study.” Pledges were forced to drink excessive alcohol for incorrect answers to fraternity questions.

A jury awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million in a civil lawsuit.
Criminal convictions followed, including negligent homicide charges leading to prison time for some members.
This tragedy led to the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, which made hazing a felony offense.

Relevance to Prince George County: This verdict proves that juries are prepared to award millions for hazing deaths. The criminal aspects and subsequent legislative changes emphasize the severity of these incidents in the eyes of the law and society.

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

Estimated Settlement: $110 Million+

Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old Penn State student, died in February 2017 after a Beta Theta Pi bid acceptance night where he was forced to consume 18 alcoholic drinks in 82 minutes. He fell down stairs, suffered a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding, and fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911. Security cameras inside the house captured the entire horrific event.

The confidential settlement with the Piazza family is estimated to be over $110 million.
Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, including involuntary manslaughter, and some received prison sentences.
This case spurred the creation of the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania.

Relevance to Prince George County: The Piazza case is the gold standard for hazing accountability. It demonstrates that when evidence is strong and the conduct egregious, settlements can reach astronomical figures. It also highlights the critical importance of preserving evidence, such as security footage.

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

Crucial for Our Case: Same National Fraternity

Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old FSU student, died in November 2017 from acute alcohol poisoning during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” where pledges were forced to drink heavily.

Nine fraternity members were charged criminally.
The chapter was permanently closed.
A civil suit resulted in a confidential settlement.

Relevance to Prince George County: This is devastating for Pi Kappa Phi. Andrew Coffey’s death means Pi Kappa Phi National knew seven years before Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized that their chapters engaged in deadly hazing. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and deliberate indifference by the national organization, amplifying the call for punitive damages in our Houston case and any Prince George County case involving Pi Kappa Phi.

Other Significant Hazing Recoveries:

Adam Oakes (VCU / Delta Chi, 2021): Settled for $4 million+ in October 2024, leading to new Virginia anti-hazing legislation (“Adam’s Law”). The family initially sought $28 million.
Texas A&M / Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2021): A pledge suffered chemical burns during hazing, resulting in a settlement over $1 million.
Sigma Chi (College of Charleston, 2024): A confidential settlement for severe hazing injuries was over $10 million.

What these precedents mean for Prince George County families:

Your Case Has Substantial Value: Whether it’s for death, permanent injury, or severe psychological trauma, hazing victims and their families consistently receive multi-million dollar compensation. Our $10 million lawsuit is well within the established range of these outcomes.
Accountability is Possible: These cases prove that universities, national fraternities, local chapters, and individual members can and will be held liable.
Hazing Leads to Legal Change: Many of these tragedies have spurred new, stronger anti-hazing laws, highlighting how civil litigation can be a force for broader societal good.
We Know the Landscape: We are intimately familiar with these cases, their strategies, and their outcomes. This knowledge empowers us to relentlessly pursue justice for Prince George County hazing victims.

These cases are not just headlines; they are benchmarks. They represent the value society places on student safety and the dire consequences for institutions that fail to uphold that standard. If your child has been a victim of hazing, know that there is a proven path to justice and recovery, one that Attorney911 is prepared to lead for Prince George County families.

Texas Hazing Law Protects Your Child: Consent is Not a Defense

Understanding the legal framework is crucial for any Prince George County family seeking justice after a hazing incident. While our physical offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, the principles of law, particularly those concerning negligence and civil liability, extend across state lines and apply to cases involving students from Prince George County. We are also well-versed in Texas hazing laws, and we often find that other states have similar statutes. Furthermore, our federal court authority often allows us to pursue cases regardless of the state in which the hazing occurred, particularly against national organizations.

Texas Anti-Hazing Law: Education Code Chapter 37, Subchapter F

Texas has one of the country’s most comprehensive anti-hazing laws, and it’s a powerful tool for victims. This law defines hazing, outlines criminal penalties, and, crucially, addresses the issue of consent.

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151)

The Texas law broadly defines hazing as:

Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in an organization if the act:

is any type of physical brutality, such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity;

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 or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student;

involves consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or other substance…that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student;

is any activity that induces, causes, or requires the student to perform a duty or task that involves a violation of the Penal Code;

involves coercing…the student to consume…a drug; or…an alcoholic beverage or liquor in an amount that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the student is intoxicated…

How Leonel Bermudez’s case exemplifies this: Every category of abuse Leonel suffered (waterboarding, wooden paddles, 500 squats to kidney failure, forced eating until vomiting, sleep deprivation, cold exposure while minimal clothing) falls squarely within this comprehensive definition of hazing. This legislation clearly identifies the conduct Leonel endured as illegal and harmful.

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152)

Texas hazing law carries significant criminal penalties, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies:

Class B Misdemeanor: For engaging in hazing, soliciting or aiding hazing, or failing to report it if you have firsthand knowledge. This can mean up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
Class A Misdemeanor: Hazing that causes serious bodily injury. This carries up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine. Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure clearly qualify as serious bodily injury.
State Jail Felony: Hazing that causes death. This can result in 180 days to two years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.

In Leonel’s case, individuals who participated face Class A Misdemeanor charges, and the University of Houston spokesperson even referenced “potential criminal charges.” These concurrent criminal proceedings can strengthen a civil case by establishing wrongdoing.

Organizational Penalties (§ 37.153)

Organizations themselves can face severe consequences if they condone or encourage hazing. This includes fines up to $10,000, denial of operating permission on campus, or forfeiture of property. This is why Pi Kappa Phi National shuttered its UH chapter so quickly.

Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): The Game-Changer

This section is perhaps the most critical for victims and families in Prince George County:

“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 directly combats the common defense often used by fraternities and universities: “He knew what he was signing up for,” or “He could have left at any time.” The Texas Legislature explicitly removed consent as a defense because they recognized that the power dynamics and social pressures inherent in hazing make true, free consent impossible. This means your child, no matter their age, cannot legally consent to be hazed under Texas law.

University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155)

Universities are legally mandated to 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 like the University of Houston accountable for transparency.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Charges

While criminal charges punish the perpetrators, civil lawsuits are how hazing victims and their families in Prince George County recover compensation for their injuries and suffering. Our firm leverages a variety of legal theories to hold all responsible parties liable.

Negligence Claims: This is the most common claim. We argue that the university, national fraternity, local chapter, and even individuals owed a duty of care to the student, breached that duty by allowing or participating in hazing, and that this breach directly caused the student’s injuries and damages.
Premises Liability: As in the Bermudez case where the University of Houston owned the fraternity house, property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe. Allowing a dangerous condition like hazing to occur on their property makes them liable. This is highly relevant for fraternities that own their houses or universities that lease facilities to Greek organizations where hazing occurs.
Negligent Supervision: This theory holds that national organizations failed to adequately supervise their local chapters, and universities failed to monitor Greek life organizations effectively. Their lack of oversight directly contributed to the hazing.
Assault and Battery: These are intentional torts directly applicable to physical hazing acts like beatings, paddling, forced physical exertion, and simulated waterboarding. This holds individual perpetrators, and potentially organizations vicariously, liable for their direct actions.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: Hazing often involves extreme and outrageous conduct that causes severe emotional distress, leading to claims for psychological damages like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Wrongful Death: When hazing leads to a student’s death, families can pursue wrongful death claims for their immense loss, including funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and future financial support.
Federal Civil Rights Claims: In some instances, hazing may rise to the level of violating a student’s civil rights, allowing for claims in federal court. Our firm’s admission to federal courts gives us a strategic advantage in pursuing these complex cases across state lines for Prince George County families.

For Prince George County hazing victims, the diverse legal theories allow us to build a robust case, ensuring that every level of responsibility, from individual abuse to institutional indifference, is addressed. The law is on the side of the victims, and we are here to wield it with precision and power.

Why Attorney911 Is the Choice for Prince George County Hazing Victims

When your family in Prince George County is facing the nightmare of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need battle-tested advocates who understand the intricate legal landscape and the specific challenges of hazing litigation. Attorney911 offers unparalleled expertise, drawing on decades of legal experience, insider knowledge, and a relentless commitment to justice. We are not a theoretical firm; we are actively fighting these battles right now, and we will bring that same ferocity to your case.

Meet Your Advocates: Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena

Both attorneys at Attorney911 are men, bringing a powerful combination of experience, perspective, and strategic insight to hazing cases.

Ralph P. Manginello: The Aggressive Litigator and Hazing Expert

Ralph Manginello, the managing partner of Attorney911, leads our hazing litigation efforts. With over 25 years of courtroom experience, he is a seasoned trial attorney known for his aggressive pursuit of justice.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney: Ralph began his career defending insurance companies. This invaluable experience means he knows their strategies, their weaknesses, and how to dismantle their defenses to maximize recovery for victims. He’s seen their playbook from the inside, and now he uses it against them to benefit Prince George County hazing victims.
Multi-Billion Dollar Case Experience: Ralph was involved in the mass tort litigation against BP following the catastrophic Texas City refinery explosion. This experience in high-stakes cases against massive corporate defendants proves his capability to take on powerful university systems and national fraternities on behalf of Prince George County families.
Federal Court Authority & Dual-State Bar Admission: Ralph is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, and is licensed in both Texas and New York. This dual-state licensure provides a strategic advantage in cases against national fraternities headquartered in other states, allowing us to pursue comprehensive justice beyond state borders, including for Prince George County victims.
Hazing-Specific Expertise: Ralph has direct experience litigating cases involving rhabdomyolysis injuries (like Leonel Bermudez’s diagnosis) and fraternity-related hazing. He understands the medical and legal complexities unique to these cases.
Dedication to Community: As an active member of his community, a youth sports coach, and a father of three children, Ralph understands the profound impact hazing has on young individuals and their families. This personal connection fuels his passion for representing hazing victims.
Journalism Background: With a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Ralph is trained to investigate, uncover facts, and tell compelling stories – crucial skills when exposing what institutions try to hide in hazing cases.

Lupe Eleno Peña: The Insider with Insurance Defense Secrets

Lupe Eleno Peña is a highly skilled associate attorney at Attorney911. Like Ralph, Mr. Peña brings critical insider knowledge from his previous career.

Former National Insurance Defense Attorney: Lupe previously worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm. In this role, he gained a deep understanding of how large insurance companies value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts.
Applying Insider Knowledge: Every tactic he learned defending insurance companies, he now uses to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for his clients. This insider perspective is an unfair advantage for hazing victims in Prince George County facing well-funded adversaries.
Wrongful Death and Dram Shop Expertise: Lupe has extensive experience in wrongful death cases and Dram Shop cases (holding establishments accountable for over-serving alcohol). This experience is directly applicable to hazing cases involving fatalities or forced alcohol consumption.
Strong Analytical Skills: With a background in finance and a B.B.A. in International Business, Lupe is adept at analyzing financial damages and understands corporate structures, which is critical when pursuing complex multi-defendant cases against national fraternities and universities.
Bilingual Advantage: Fluent in Spanish, Lupe ensures that Hispanic families in Prince George County receive comprehensive legal guidance without language barriers. Se habla español, meaning he can reach a broader segment of the Prince George County community.

What Sets Attorney911 Apart for Prince George County Families:

Currently Litigating a $10M Hazing Case: We are not theoretical. We are actively fighting the biggest hazing case in the nation. Prince George County families get the same aggressive, real-world representation.
Unmatched Insider Knowledge: Both Ralph and Lupe are former insurance defense attorneys. We know exactly how the defense thinks, what their weaknesses are, and how to counter their strategies. This is invaluable when taking on well-funded universities and national fraternities.
Nationwide Reach: While based in Texas, we serve hazing victims in Prince George County and across America. Our firm’s federal court authority, dual-state bar licenses, remote consultation technology, and willingness to travel ensure distance is not a barrier to justice. We will come to Prince George County for depositions, meetings, and trials when needed.
No Upfront Cost (Contingency Fee): We understand that families are already burdened by medical costs and emotional trauma. We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay $0 upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. This levels the playing field against institutions with endless legal budgets.
Proven Track Record of Success: From multi-million dollar settlements in car accidents and workplace injuries to landmark hazing litigation, our results speak for themselves. We have obtained millions of dollars for our clients.
Compassionate and Aggressive: We combine genuine empathy for our clients with an unyielding determination to hold wrongdoers accountable. We treat Prince George County families like our own, fighting for them with every resource at our disposal. Our Google reviews, with a 4.9-star rating from over 250 testimonies, reflect this commitment.
Data-Driven Litigation: We maintain a comprehensive database of Greek organizations in Texas, complete with EINs, legal names, and insurance structures. This intelligence allows us to identify and target every responsible entity without guessing. We know who to sue, and we know our targets.

When your child is harmed by hazing, you need a firm that is not afraid to take on powerful institutions, a firm that has the expertise to win, and a firm that genuinely cares. For Prince George County families, Attorney911 is that firm. We bring our full resources, experience, and dedication to ensuring justice for hazing victims.

What to Do Right Now: Your Immediate Steps After Hazing

The moments following a hazing incident are critical. For families in Prince George County, knowing precisely what steps to take can significantly impact the outcome of a future legal claim. There may be immense pressure from the fraternity, the university, or even other students to remain silent. However, protecting your child’s rights and future begins with immediate, decisive action.

Here’s crucial guidance for Prince George County families and victims:

1. Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Remove Your Child from the Situation: If your child is still in an unsafe environment, get them out immediately. Their physical and psychological safety is paramount.
Emergency Medical Care: If there are any signs of physical injury, extreme exhaustion, unconsciousness, severe dehydration, or alcohol poisoning (like Leonel Bermudez’s kidney failure), call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room without delay.
- Document Everything: Ensure all injuries are thoroughly documented by medical professionals. Ask for copies of all medical records, including test results, discharge summaries, and billing statements. These will be crucial evidence.
- Monitor Symptoms: Some hazing injuries, like rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, can have delayed or long-lasting symptoms. Continue to monitor your child’s health closely and seek follow-up care as recommended by doctors.
Mental Health Support: Hazing inflicts severe psychological trauma. Seek professional mental health support from a therapist or counselor experienced in trauma. Keep records of these sessions and any diagnoses, such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression.

2. Preserve All Evidence – “Document Everything!”

This is perhaps the most critical step you can take for your child’s case. Anything that can prove the hazing occurred, who was involved, and the extent of the harm is invaluable. As Attorney Manginello emphasizes, “Take pictures. Take pictures. Take pictures. Take more pictures than you think you need to.”

Photos and Videos:
- Injuries: Photograph all physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, swelling) as they appear, and document their progression over time.
- Hazing Locations: If safe to do so, photograph the locations where the hazing occurred – fraternity houses, off-campus residences, fields, common areas.
- Physical Evidence: Take photos of any items used in hazing (e.g., paddles, alcohol containers, degrading clothing, items used in forced consumption).
Digital Communications: These are often goldmines for hazing cases.
- Texts, GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, Facebook Messenger: Screenshot and save every single message related to the hazing. This includes instructions, threats, pictures, videos, and comments from members, pledges, or advisors. Do not delete anything, even if it seems irrelevant.
- Social Media Posts: Screenshot any posts from fraternity members, pledges, or the organization itself that relate to the pledge process or hazing.
Witness Information: Collect names, phone numbers, and any other contact information for other pledges, witnesses to the hazing, or anyone who might have knowledge of the fraternity’s activities.
Official Documents: Preserve any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or communications your child received from the fraternity or university regarding the pledge process.
Financial Records: Keep meticulous records of all medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages (if your child missed work or internships), and any academic expenses related to the disruption caused by the hazing.

3. Critical “Do Nots” – Protect Your Case

What you do not do can be as important as what you do do. Avoid these common mistakes that can jeopardize a hazing claim:

DO NOT Delete Anything: Resist the urge to delete messages, photos, or social media posts, even if they’re embarrassing. Deleting evidence can severely harm your case and may lead to spoliation of evidence claims.
DO NOT Speak to the Fraternity/Sorority: Do not communicate with chapter leadership, advisors, alumni, or national fraternity representatives without legal counsel. They will be looking for ways to minimize their liability and may try to coerce or intimidate your child.
DO NOT Speak to University Administration Alone: Universities have their own legal and public relations teams whose primary goal is to protect the institution, not your child. Any statements made to them can be used against your child’s case. If you must communicate with the university, do so only after consulting with an attorney.
DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, university, or their insurance representatives without having them reviewed by your own attorney. You could inadvertently waive critical legal rights.
DO NOT Post on Social Media: Anything your child or family posts on social media can be used by the defense to discredit witnesses, minimize injuries, or argue against the severity of the hazing. Stay completely silent about the incident online.
DO NOT Confront Perpetrators: While understandable, confronting those responsible can escalate the situation and potentially create additional legal complications. Let your legal team handle all interactions.

4. Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney IMMEDIATELY

Time is critical. The statute of limitations (typically two years in most states for personal injury and wrongful death cases) means you have a limited window to file a lawsuit. Moreover, evidence disappears, memories fade, and defendants strategize quickly to cover their tracks.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911: Our legal emergency hotline is available 24/7 for Prince George County families. The initial consultation is free, and we stand ready to provide immediate guidance.
Remote Consultations: We understand that Prince George County families may not be able to travel to our Texas offices. We offer convenient video consultations to discuss your case remotely.
We Come to You: When necessary, our attorneys will travel to Prince George County for depositions, client meetings, and trials, ensuring you have face-to-face representation as needed.

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay $0 upfront, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case. This ensures that financial concerns do not prevent Prince George County families from seeking the justice they deserve.

By taking these immediate steps, Prince George County families can lay a strong foundation for a successful legal claim, protecting their rights and holding those responsible for hazing accountable.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Lawyers for Prince George County Hazing Victims

If your family in Prince George County is grappling with the devastating aftermath of hazing, you are facing a legal emergency. This is a moment where rapid, decisive action by experienced legal professionals is not just beneficial, but absolutely critical. At Attorney911, we are more than just lawyers; we are your first responders in a legal crisis, and we bring relentless advocacy to every hazing victim we represent.

We are currently fighting a $10 million battle against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for egregious hazing that led to our client’s hospitalization. This isn’t theoretical; this is real, ongoing litigation in Harris County Civil District Court. We understand the tactics of national fraternities, the negligence of universities, and the profound trauma inflicted upon victims and their families. We will bring this same level of aggressive, data-driven representation to Prince George County families.

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

You have legal rights, and we are here to champion them. We are fighting this exact fight right now, and we will fight just as relentlessly for Prince George County victims.

Your child’s suffering is not a minor incident to be swept under the rug. It is a profound wrong that demands justice and accountability.

Prince George County Families — Call Now for a Free Consultation

Don’t wait. The clock is ticking on legal deadlines, and critical evidence can disappear quickly. Our team is available around the clock to provide the immediate guidance and support you need.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

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

We are available 24/7 for Prince George County hazing emergencies. You will speak directly with our experienced team who understands what you’re facing.

We Work on Contingency: Zero Upfront Cost for Prince George County Families

We believe that no family should be denied justice due to financial constraints. That’s why we take hazing cases on a CONTINGENCY FEE BASIS.

You pay $0 upfront.
There are no hourly fees.
We only get paid if and when we win your case.

This model aligns our interests directly with yours and removes the financial barrier to accessing top-tier legal representation, allowing you to focus on your child’s recovery.

What Prince George County Hazing Victims Should Do Right Now:

Seek Medical Attention: Ensure all injuries, physical and psychological, are professionally documented and treated. Medical records are vital evidence.
Preserve All Evidence: Secure copies of all texts, photos, videos, social media messages, and documents related to the hazing. Do not delete anything.
Do NOT Communicate with Defendants: Refuse to speak with fraternity members, university officials, or their lawyers without your own legal counsel present. They are not on your side.
Do NOT Post on Social Media: Any online activity can be used against your child’s case. Maintain complete silence about the incident online.
Call Us Immediately: The statute of limitations imposes strict deadlines, and evidence often disappears quickly. The sooner we get involved, the stronger your case will be.
Remote Consultations and Travel: For Prince George County families, distance is not an obstacle. We offer video consultations via phone or internet, and our attorneys are prepared to travel to Prince George County for depositions, client meetings, and trials as necessary.

We Serve Prince George County Hazing Victims — And Hazing Victims Nationwide

While our headquarters are in Houston, Texas, with additional offices in Austin and Beaumont, our reach extends far beyond state lines. Hazing is a national crisis, affecting colleges and universities across the United States, including those where Prince George County students enroll.

We can evaluate and represent your Prince George County hazing case regardless of its specific location through:

Federal Court Authority: Our attorneys are admitted to U.S. District Courts, enabling us to pursue complex cases against national organizations in federal jurisdiction.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas and New York, providing a strategic advantage when dealing with national fraternities and sororities often headquartered in other states.
Advanced Remote Technology: We leverage secure video conferencing platforms to conduct consultations and collaborate with Prince George County families and witnesses efficiently.
Commitment to Travel: Justice knows no geographical boundaries. We routinely travel for critical legal proceedings, ensuring your case receives the in-person attention it demands.

Hazing is not limited to Greek life. We represent victims of hazing in:

Fraternities and sororities at universities attended by Prince George County students.
University sports teams and athletic programs your children may join.
Marching bands and other musical organizations.
ROTC programs and military academies.
Various clubs and student organizations that engage in initiation rituals.
Any group that uses abuse, humiliation, or forced activities as part of “initiation.”

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing: We Know You Are Out There

Leonel Bermudez was not the only student subjected to abuse by the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter. Our lawsuit details how another pledge collapsed unconscious on October 15, and others endured the same waterboarding, forced eating, extreme exertion, and psychological torment.

If you or someone you know was part of this hazing incident, you have rights, too. Do not suffer in silence.

As Lupe Pena passionately 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.” Your courage can be a powerful force for change and healing. Call us. Let’s bring them all to justice.

Attorney911 is ready to fight for you. Your legal emergency is our call to action.

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