If you’re reading this in Warren County, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went off to college, hoping to make friends and build a future. Instead, they were subjected to abuse, humiliation, and even torture. The nightmare of hazing is a reality that shatters lives and devastates families. We understand what you’re going through, and we want you to know that you are not alone. Our firm, Attorney911, is here to help families in Warren County and across the nation fight back against the institutions and individuals responsible for these unthinkable acts.

We are not just legal advocates; we are a shield for victims and a sword for justice. We are currently embroiled in a significant $10 million lawsuit against a national fraternity and a major university following a horrific hazing incident. This isn’t theoretical – we are actively fighting this battle right now. Our aggressive, data-driven approach, combined with our deep understanding of the legal landscape and the insidious nature of hazing, positions us as the definitive authority on hazing litigation nationwide. We bring this same relentless pursuit of accountability to every family we represent, including those in Warren County.

Your Nightmare Just Became Real, And We Are Here To Help

The phone rings. Your child is sick, traumatized, or worse, in the hospital. The story slowly unfolds – not of innocent fun, but of systematic abuse, forced consumption, sleep deprivation, and physical torment. The institutions you trusted to protect your child have failed. This could be any college town, any university, and any fraternity or sorority. It could be a university near Warren County, whether it’s a prominent school in Virginia or a regional college that draws students from diverse backgrounds. The shock, betrayal, and anger are overwhelming. You’re searching for answers, for help, for someone to truly understand the depth of your pain. We do.

At Attorney911, we believe that no student should ever have to endure the trauma of hazing, and no family should bear that burden alone. We are committed to holding every responsible party accountable, from individual perpetrators to national organizations and the universities that enable such environments. Our approach is direct, compassionate, and results-oriented. We recognize that families in Warren County send their children to college expecting them to be safe, to learn, and to grow. When that trust is betrayed, we are here to restore justice.

The Landmark Case: A Wake-Up Call for Warren County Families

This case happened in Houston, Texas, very recently. But the same hazing tactics, the same reckless disregard for student safety, and the same institutional failures are present at universities near Warren County, Virginia. The same national fraternities operate chapters that recruit students from Warren County. If it happened in Houston, it can happen anywhere, and this is what we’re actively fighting to prevent. This is not just a lawsuit; it’s a testament to our profound commitment to holding those accountable who perpetrate and enable hazing.

Our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are spearheading a $10 million lawsuit filed in Harris County Civil District Court in November 2025. The case, Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al., names as defendants Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (both the national organization and the local chapter), its housing corporation, the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity members. This lawsuit is making headlines across Texas and beyond, shining a harsh light on the dark reality of modern hazing.

Here’s why this ongoing fight in Houston should resonate deeply with parents in Warren County:

Pi Kappa Phi operates on over 150 campuses nationwide, including many institutions that draw students from Warren County. The “traditions” that tragically impacted our client are not isolated to one chapter.
Universities everywhere face similar challenges and liabilities when it comes to Greek life oversight. The institutional failures at the University of Houston are a blueprint for what can happen at any college or university near Warren County if negligence prevails.
Our aggressive legal strategy in this case is precisely what we will deploy for Warren County families. We tackle every layer of responsibility, ensuring no stone is left unturned in our pursuit of justice.

Parents send their children from communities across Warren County, like Front Royal, to colleges and universities, trusting that those institutions will provide a safe environment. When that trust is broken, Attorney911 is ready to step in.

The Victim: Leonel Bermudez – A Story That Demands Justice

Leonel Bermudez was not even a University of Houston student when he endured weeks of systematic abuse. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective transfer student who had accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on September 16, 2025. He was planning to enroll at UH for the Spring 2026 semester. They did this to someone who wasn’t even enrolled yet, someone who was simply trying to build a future.

Within weeks of accepting his bid, Leonel was plunged into a nightmare that epitomizes the brutality of modern hazing. The abuse culminated in a horrific incident on November 3, 2025, leading to his hospitalization for severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He spent three nights and four days in the hospital, grappling with a life-threatening condition directly caused by the fraternity’s actions.

Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, expressed the grim reality to ABC13: “When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure.”

This is the very essence of hazing today: a systematic erosion of a student’s physical and mental well-being, often with devastating consequences. Lupe Pena, our associate attorney, 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.” We echo this sentiment. Every case we take is aimed at preventing such tragedies from befalling another family, whether in Houston, Warren County, or anywhere else.

The Unfolding Horror: A Timeline of Abuse

The details of Leonel’s ordeal, as uncovered through our investigation and detailed in the lawsuit, are chilling:

September 16, 2025: Leonel accepts a bid to Pi Kappa Phi, eager to join the brotherhood.
September 16 – November 3, 2025: Weeks of systematic hazing begin. This period involved an enforced dress code, mandatory study hours, weekly interviews with members, and being forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, leading to severe exhaustion. To further degrade him, Leonel was compelled to carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature at all times. Threats of physical punishment or expulsion loomed constantly.
October 13, 2025: In a separate, equally disturbing incident, another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. This occurred while fraternity members prepared for a meeting, underscoring the casual cruelty of the environment.
October 15, 2025: Horrifyingly, another pledge lost consciousness and collapsed during a forced workout session. Instead of seeking immediate medical help, his “brothers” simply elevated his legs until he revived, demonstrating a callous disregard for human life and severe lack of judgment.
November 3, 2025 (The Main Incident): Leonel was singled out for punishment after missing an event. He was subjected to an extreme physical regimen, including a two-mile warmup, over 100 push-ups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-your-brother” drills, and repeated 100-yard crawls. While enduring this torture, he was forced to recite the fraternity creed, with threats of immediate expulsion if he stopped. He was sprayed in the face with a garden hose, simulating waterboarding. He was made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited, then forced to continue running sprints through his own vomit, and lie in it. He was also subjected to being struck with wooden paddles and forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather. This ordeal continued until he was so exhausted he could not stand without help.
November 6, 2025: Leonel’s mother rushed him to the hospital after he collapsed at home, passing brown urine – a classic sign of severe muscle breakdown.
November 6-10, 2025: Leonel was hospitalized for three nights and four days, diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters officially closed the Beta Nu Chapter.
November 21, 2025: Attorney911 filed the $10 million lawsuit.

This disturbing timeline, meticulously pieced together through legal and media channels alike, paints a grim picture of systematic abuse and criminal neglect. Our work is to ensure that every detail, every act of cruelty, is brought to light and every responsible party is held accountable.

Why This Case Is a Warning to Warren County

The Pi Kappa Phi case is a crucial warning sign for families across Warren County. When we speak of “hazing,” we are not talking about harmless pranks. We are describing acts of physical brutality, psychological torture, and reckless endangerment that can, and often do, lead to severe injury or death.

The institutions are complicit: The University of Houston owned the very fraternity house where some of these atrocities occurred. They had the power to regulate, inspect, and intervene, yet failed to do so effectively. Universities near Warren County, whether Liberty University, James Madison University, or Shenandoah University, have a similar duty of care to their students. Their inaction can make them just as liable.
National organizations turn a blind eye: Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters closed the chapter only after Leonel’s hospitalization, admitting to “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy.” This suggests they knew or should have known about a pattern of abuse. Many fraternities and sororities with chapters near Warren County operate under the same national umbrellas that often overlook or tacitly permit dangerous behaviors.
Victims fear speaking out: Leonel’s reluctance to give interviews highlights the intense fear of retribution that victims often face. We offer a safe harbor, protecting our clients and empowering them to seek justice without fear.

This tragic story underscores that hazing is a nationwide crisis, not an isolated incident. The tactics employed by the Pi Kappa Phi chapter against Leonel could be happening right now at a college or university attended by students from Warren County. For example, students from high schools like Skyline High School or Warren County High School may go on to colleges where Greek life is prevalent. We want those families to know that we are ready to fight for them with the same ferocity and expertise we are demonstrating in the Bermudez case.

Media Attention: Shining a Light on the Crisis

The Bermudez case has garnered significant media attention, which helps amplify the message that hazing will not be tolerated. KPRC 2 (Click2Houston), ABC13 (KTRK), KHOU 11, and Houston Public Media have all covered the lawsuit extensively. This widespread coverage is not merely news; it’s a vital tool. It helps us educate the public, put universities and fraternities nationwide on notice, and empower other victims to come forward. It demonstrates that Attorney911 does not shy away from the spotlight when seeking justice, a critical factor for families in Warren County who want their voices heard.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

Many parents in Warren County might hold an outdated image of hazing—harmless pranks or mild inconveniences. But the truth, as revealed in cases like Leonel Bermudez’s, is far more sinister. Hazing today is not “boys being boys.” It is not “tradition” or “building brotherhood.” It is systematic abuse, psychological torment, physical degradation, and often, criminal assault.

It is:

Assault and Battery: Direct physical harm, often involving repetitive and intense violence.
Torture: Acts designed to inflict severe physical or mental suffering.
Reckless Endangerment: Placing individuals in situations where their safety and health are severely at risk.
Sometimes Manslaughter or Murder: When hazing goes too far, resulting in preventable deaths.

These are the realities we confront, and these are the devastating consequences that can impact students from Warren County attending colleges anywhere.

The True Face of Hazing: A Catalog of Cruelty

Based on incidents like Leonel Bermudez’s, here are the types of activities that constitute modern hazing:

Physical Abuse: This includes beatings, brandings, extreme calisthenics (like the 500 squats and 100 push-ups Leonel endured), forced exposure to the elements, and even simulated waterboarding. The wooden paddles used on Leonel are a stark reminder of the intentional infliction of pain.
Forced Consumption: Binge drinking is a tragically common hazing ritual, leading to alcohol poisoning and death, as seen in many precedent cases. But hazing also involves forced consumption of non-alcoholic substances, often in obscene quantities (like milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns to induce vomiting).
Psychological Torture: This category is broad and deeply damaging, encompassing humiliation (such as wearing sexual objects, stripping), degradation, verbal abuse, sleep deprivation, intimidation tactics, and isolation. The lasting mental and emotional scars can be profound.
Servitude: Pledges are often forced to act as personal servants, performing tasks for older members, driving them at all hours, or cleaning their quarters. This contributes to exhaustion and a sense of powerlessness.
Sexual Harassment and Abuse: While not directly alleged in Leonel’s physical injuries, forced nudity and the carriage of sexual objects point to a disturbing undercurrent of sexual humiliation that is too often part of hazing.

The Devastating Medical Consequences

The injuries sustained from hazing are rarely minor. Leonel Bermudez’s diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure is a horrifying example. Rhabdomyolysis is a condition where damaged muscle tissue releases proteins into the bloodstream that can overwhelm and destroy the kidneys. It is a direct result of extreme physical exertion and brutalization. Other life-threatening medical consequences of hazing include:

Alcohol Poisoning: The leading cause of hazing deaths, resulting from forced binge drinking.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From falls, blows to the head, or extreme physical exertion.
Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From forced exposure to extreme temperatures.
Cardiac Arrest: Resulting from extreme physical stress or dehydration.
Psychological Trauma: Including PTSD, severe anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation, which can have lifelong impacts.

These are not risks taken in a pursuit of camaraderie; they are the intentional infliction of harm. We want parents in Warren County to understand that the “traditions” promoted by fraternities can lead to these catastrophic outcomes for their children.

Who Is Responsible for Hazing? Everyone Who Participated or Allowed It.

One of the most critical aspects of our aggressive litigation strategy is to identify and pursue every single entity that bears responsibility for hazing. This isn’t just about targeting the individuals who carried out the abuse; it’s about holding the entire ecosystem accountable. When a student from Warren County is hazed, we look at the big picture.

Our lawsuit in the Bermudez case meticulously names multiple layers of defendants, demonstrating our commitment to comprehensive accountability:

Individual Perpetrators: This includes the active members who directly engaged in hazing activities, as well as the chapter’s leadership like the President and Pledgemaster who directed or allowed the abuse. Even former members who hosted hazing activities at their private residences, and their spouses who permitted it, can be held liable. The Stone Foltz case proved this with a $6.5 million judgment against a single chapter president.
Local Fraternity/Sorority Chapters: The Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi is directly responsible for organizing and conducting the hazing. Chapters often operate under their own bylaws but are ultimately agents of the national organization.
National Fraternity/Sorority Organizations: These are “deep pockets” with significant assets and comprehensive insurance policies. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., the national body, is a key defendant because it failed to adequately supervise its local chapter, failed to enforce anti-hazing policies, and should have known about its chapters’ dangerous propensities, especially given Andrew Coffey’s death in 2017. Their quick action to close the chapter after Leonel’s hospitalization further demonstrates their awareness of wrongdoing. These national organizations, including Pi Kappa Phi, Delta Chi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi, Sigma Chi, and Kappa Sigma, have chapters across America, including those potentially drawing students from Warren County to colleges and universities across the region.
Universities and Colleges: The University of Houston and its Board of Regents are crucial defendants. The university owned the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place, making it directly liable under premises liability laws. Furthermore, universities have a fundamental duty to protect their students, oversee Greek life, and ensure a safe campus environment. Our investigation revealed that UH had a prior hazing incident in 2017 involving a different fraternity that resulted in a student’s hospitalization, establishing a clear pattern of institutional negligence. Universities near Warren County, such as George Mason University, Radford University, or Virginia Tech, all have a similar duty to protect students from hazing.
Housing Corporations: Entities like the Beta Nu Housing Corporation own and manage the physical property of fraternities. They can be held liable if they fail to prevent dangerous activities on property they control.
Insurance Carriers: Ultimately, the funds for significant settlements and verdicts typically come from the liability insurance policies held by the national organizations, universities, and sometimes even individual homeowners’ policies. As a firm with former insurance defense attorneys, we understand exactly how to navigate these complexities to maximize recovery.

This layered approach ensures that every party that contributed to the harm, either directly or through negligence, is brought to justice. It’s not about singling out “a few bad apples”; it’s about dismantling a system that allows hazing to flourish with impunity.

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

For families in Warren County grappling with the aftermath of hazing, one of the most pressing questions is whether legal action can truly make a difference. The answer is a resounding yes. Our pursuit of $10 million in the Bermudez case is not an arbitrary figure; it is grounded in a strong history of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in hazing litigation nationwide. These precedents send a clear message: hazing costs millions, and we have the receipts.

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

Total Recovery: Over $10.1 Million
Stone Foltz died in 2021 after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha “Big/Little” event. The comprehensive accountability sought by his family resulted in:

A $2.9 million settlement from Bowling Green State University, marking the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio’s history.
A $7.2 million settlement from Pi Kappa Alpha National and several individuals.
In December 2024, a chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was ordered to pay $6.5 million personally, proving that individual accountability is fiercely pursued.
This case is a direct parallel to our current lawsuit, demonstrating that institutions and fraternities are held to account for millions, and that individual perpetrators can face massive personal liability.

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

Jury Verdict: $6.1 Million
Maxwell Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, died in 2017 from acute alcohol poisoning with a BAC of 0.495 after being forced to drink excessive alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” event. A jury awarded his family $6.1 million, and key perpetrators faced criminal negligence charges. This case directly led to the passing of the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana. The significant jury verdict proves that when hazing cases proceed to trial, juries are often outraged and willing to award substantial damages.

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

Estimated Recovery: Over $110 Million
Timothy Piazza’s tragic death in 2017 after a brutal Beta Theta Pi hazing ritual led to one of the largest hazing settlements in U.S. history, estimated to be over $110 million. Piazza suffered a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding after multiple falls while severely intoxicated during “the gauntlet,” a forced drinking ritual. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911. Security camera footage laid bare the full extent of the negligence and cruelty. This case resulted in multiple criminal convictions, including involuntary manslaughter, and spurred Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.” This monumental outcome highlights the potential for massive accountability when egregious conduct is met with compelling evidence.

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

Same Fraternity. Same Deadly Pattern.
Tragically, Andrew Coffey died in 2017 at a “Big Brother Night” event hosted by the Pi Kappa Phi chapter at Florida State University. He was forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey 101 bourbon and died from alcohol poisoning. This resulted in criminal charges against nine fraternity members and the permanent closure of the FSU chapter. While the civil settlement amount remains confidential, the key takeaway for Leonel Bermudez’s case is critical: This is the SAME national organization. Eight years after a student died under their watch, Pi Kappa Phi allowed Leonel Bermudez to be waterboarded and hospitalized, demonstrating a shocking pattern of negligence and a failure to learn from past tragedies. This pattern of conduct is a powerful tool in seeking punitive damages.

Other Recent Cases:

Adam Oakes (VCU / Delta Chi, 2021): A $4+ million settlement was reached in October 2024 after Adam Oakes died from alcohol poisoning during a Delta Chi hazing ritual. This case, like others, also led to new anti-hazing legislation (“Adam’s Law”) in Virginia, underscoring the legislative impact of these cases.
UT Austin / Sigma Chi (Nov 2025): A wrongful death lawsuit was just filed this very week, alleging “horrific abuse” leading to the death by suicide of an 18-year-old freshman. This demonstrates the pervasive nature of hazing, even in our home state, and further illustrates the ongoing legal fight against these organizations.

These cases are not just statistics; they are human stories of immense suffering and profound injustice. They underscore that hazing claims are valid, they are winnable, and they can lead to monumental changes. For families in Warren County, these precedents prove that justice is not only possible but often necessary to drive institutional change and prevent future tragedies.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding the Legal Framework

While many Warren County students may attend colleges outside of Texas, understanding the strong anti-hazing laws in our home state, Texas, is crucial. Because hazing is a nationwide problem, many states have similar laws, and federal laws also apply. Our firm’s expertise in navigating these legal frameworks means we can apply robust legal strategies regardless of where the hazing occurred.

Texas Hazing Laws: Education Code § 37.151-37.157

Texas has one of the nation’s most comprehensive anti-hazing statutes, providing a powerful legal foundation for civil lawsuits and criminal prosecutions. Key provisions include:

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Texas law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student for the purpose of membership, if the act endangers the student’s mental or physical health or safety. This broadly covers physical brutality (like striking, beating), sleep deprivation, forced consumption (including alcohol or food), and any activity creating an unreasonable risk of harm. The description of Leonel Bermudez’s experience—waterboarding, forced eating, 500 squats, wooden paddles—aligns with multiple elements of this definition.
Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Hazing is a serious crime in Texas. Simple hazing is a Class B Misdemeanor. Hazing causing serious bodily injury (like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure) is a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine. Hazing causing death is a State Jail Felony, punishable by up to two years in state jail and a $10,000 fine. The University of Houston spokesperson even mentioned “potential criminal charges” in their statement about Leonel’s case, confirming the seriousness of the situation.
Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Fraternities and sororities themselves can be held liable. An organization commits an offense if it condones, encourages, or if an officer or member commits hazing. Penalties can include fines, denial of the right to operate, and forfeiture of property. This is why Pi Kappa Phi National (and its local chapter) were named defendants.
Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is a critical provision. Texas law explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution for an offense under this subchapter that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.” This unequivocally dismantles the common defense used by perpetrators and institutions to blame the victim, telling perpetrators that “he agreed to it” is not an excuse.

Civil Liability: What Warren County Victims Can Sue For

Beyond criminal charges, civil lawsuits provide the means for victims and their families to recover damages and achieve justice. Our firm pursues a range of civil liability theories, which apply broadly across all states, including Virginia:

Negligence Claims: This is the most common legal basis, alleging that the responsible parties (individuals, chapters, nationals, university) failed in their duty of care to protect the student, and this failure directly caused the student’s injuries.
Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university or housing corporation (as in Leonel’s case, where UH owned the fraternity house), they can be held liable for maintaining an unsafe environment.
Negligent Supervision: This applies when national organizations fail to adequately supervise their local chapters, or when universities fail to properly oversee Greek life and other student organizations.
Assault and Battery: Individual perpetrators can be sued for intentional harmful or offensive contact. The wooden paddles and waterboarding in Leonel’s case unequivocally constitute assault and battery.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: This applies when the hazing involves outrageous, extreme conduct that causes severe emotional anguish, leading to conditions like PTSD, depression, or anxiety.
Wrongful Death: In the tragic event of a hazing-related death, families can sue for the loss of their loved one, including future earnings, medical expenses, and funeral costs, with punitive damages often being awarded.

For families in Warren County, understanding these legal frameworks is essential. While hazing laws may vary slightly by state, the fundamental principles of negligence, institutional accountability, and protecting victims’ rights remain consistent. Our firm is equipped to navigate these complexities, ensuring that hazing victims from Warren County receive the aggressive and expert representation they deserve.

Why Attorney911: Your Champion in the Fight Against Hazing

Choosing the right legal representation after a hazing incident is one of the most critical decisions a family in Warren County will make. You need more than just a lawyer; you need a champion with specific expertise, unwavering dedication, and a proven track record against powerful institutions. Attorney911 stands as that champion. Here’s why families across Warren County and beyond trust us with their most urgent and sensitive legal challenges:

Unmatched Hazing Litigation Expertise

We are not just a personal injury firm; we are at the forefront of hazing litigation nationwide. Our lead attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are currently leading the charge in the $10 million Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi lawsuit against a national fraternity and a major university. This isn’t theoretical; this is real-time, aggressive litigation against entities that believe they are untouchable. We are demonstrating a data-driven, relentless approach that families in Warren County can directly benefit from.

Strategic Advantages That Level the Playing Field

Our firm possesses unique advantages that give our clients an edge against well-funded defendants:

Former Insurance Defense Attorneys: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena spent significant portions of their careers working for insurance companies and large corporate defendants. They literally know the defense’s playbook inside and out. Lupe Peña, for instance, previously worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm, where he defended companies against claims just like those we now bring. This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate their tactics, dismantle their arguments, and force them to pay what our Warren County clients deserve.
Federal Court Admissions: Both Ralph and Lupe are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court authority means we are not confined by state borders; we can pursue cases against national fraternities and universities in federal courts, where powerful defendants often face stricter scrutiny and higher stakes. This is particularly crucial for Warren County families whose children might attend universities across different states.
Dual-State Bar Admission: Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice law in both Texas and New York. This dual-state licensure provides a strategic advantage, especially when dealing with national fraternities and sororities often headquartered outside of Texas, allowing us to navigate complex multi-state legal battles with ease.
Mass Tort and High-Stakes Litigation Experience: Ralph’s involvement in the multi-billion dollar BP Texas City Explosion litigation demonstrates our capacity to take on massive corporate defendants in highly complex, high-stakes environments. This experience is directly transferable to hazing cases involving powerful national organizations and universities.
Se Habla Español: We are proud to have bilingual staff who can provide comprehensive legal services in Spanish. For Hispanic families in Warren County, this ensures that language is never a barrier to justice, allowing for clear and empathetic communication throughout the legal process.

Deep Roots, Broad Reach: Serving Warren County From Our Texas Bases

While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our commitment to justice for hazing victims extends nationwide. We regularly represent clients across various states, and we are fully prepared to serve families in Warren County, Virginia.

Remote Consultations: We leverage technology to offer video consultations, making it easy for Warren County families to connect with our attorneys from the comfort and privacy of their homes.
Willingness to Travel: Distance is not a barrier to justice for us. Our attorneys are prepared to travel to Warren County for depositions, client meetings, and trials whenever necessary.
24/7 Availability: Legal emergencies don’t adhere to business hours. Our hotline, 1-888-ATTY-911, is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ensuring that scared parents searching for help at 2 AM can reach us immediately.

Empathy, Dedication, and No Upfront Cost

We understand that pursuing legal action after a tragedy can be daunting, especially considering potential legal fees. That’s why we take all hazing cases on a contingency fee basis.

You pay $0 upfront. There are no hourly fees, no retainers, and no hidden costs.
We don’t get paid unless and until you get paid. This directly aligns our interests with yours. We are fully invested in securing maximum compensation for your family.
We take the financial risk. This allows families in Warren County to pursue justice against well-funded institutions without adding financial strain to their existing burdens.

We are not just lawyers; we are compassionate allies who see your child as a person, not a case number. Our Google reviews, boasting a 4.9-star rating from over 250 testimonials, frequently highlight our clients’ appreciation for our communication, responsiveness, and genuine care. As Chad Harris, a satisfied client, put it: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client that’s caught in the middle of many other cases. You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” This is the level of dedication we bring to every family, including yours in Warren County.

A Reputation for Results

Our track record speaks for itself, from multi-million dollar wins in personal injury cases to dismissals in complex criminal defense matters. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of courtroom experience, coupled with his background as a journalist trained to uncover truth, makes him a formidable advocate. Lupe Pena’s decade-plus of experience fighting insurance companies from the inside now arms him with invaluable insights to secure substantial recoveries for victims. Together, they represent a combined 37+ years of legal experience, with the unique advantage of having faced the defense from both sides.

When you choose Attorney911, you choose a firm that is actively fighting the battle, bringing aggression, expertise, and empathy to secure justice for hazing victims. For families in Warren County, that means having a powerful team in your corner, ready to advocate fiercely for your child and hold every responsible party accountable.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Warren County Families

If your child has been the victim of hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. While the emotional toll is immense, taking swift, decisive action can significantly impact the success of any future legal claim. Here are the steps we urge families in Warren County to take:

1. Prioritize Medical Attention and Document Injuries

Safety and well-being come first. If your child has been physically harmed, seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.

Call 911 or visit the Emergency Room: For severe injuries (like suspected alcohol poisoning, traumatic brain injury, severe pain, or any symptoms akin to Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure), do not delay. Take an ambulance if offered.
See a Doctor Immediately: For less severe but still concerning injuries, schedule an appointment with a doctor or urgent care.
Document Everything: Ensure medical professionals meticulously document all injuries, symptoms, treatments, and your child’s account of how the injuries occurred. Keep every record, bill, and prescription. This creates an invaluable paper trail that links the hazing directly to the harm.
Photograph Injuries: Take clear, close-up photos of all bruises, cuts, burns, or other physical marks immediately, and continue to photograph them as they heal. This visual evidence is extremely powerful. Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case tragically developed rhabdomyolysis, leading to his urine turning brown—a critical medical symptom that was documented.

2. Preserve All Evidence – Quickly and Discreetly

Hazing perpetrators often attempt to destroy evidence or coerce victims into silence. It is crucial to collect and preserve every piece of information your child can provide.

Text Messages and Group Chats: Screenshots are paramount. This includes messages from individuals, group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, etc.) detailing hazing activities, instructions, threats, or discussions about the incident. Do not delete anything from your child’s phone.
Photos and Videos: Any images or videos of hazing activities, locations, or participants are vital. If your child has any, secure them immediately.
Witness Information: Gather names, phone numbers, and any contact information for other pledges, fraternity/sorority members, or bystanders who witnessed the hazing or its aftermath. Even if they are reluctant to come forward immediately, their information is crucial.
Fraternity/Sorority Documents: Collect any manuals, schedules, rulebooks, creeds, or other documents provided to pledges. These often contain codes or rules that, while seemingly harmless, can be linked to the hazing.
Social Media: Create archives or screenshots of any social media posts or profiles relevant to the fraternity/sorority and its members. Crucially, your child should immediately stop posting anything about the incident on their own social media accounts. Anything they post can be twisted by the defense.
Personal Journal/Notes: Encourage your child to write down everything they remember about the hazing incidents – dates, times, locations, who was involved, what was said, what they were forced to do. Details fade quickly, and these notes can prove invaluable later.

3. Do NOT Communicate Without Legal Counsel

This is a critical step. Hazing incidents are often followed by attempts from the fraternity/sorority, the university, or their legal representatives to control the narrative and minimize liability.

Refuse to Give Statements: Your child should not give any statements (written, oral, or recorded) to the fraternity, the national organization, university administrators, or their lawyers without our firm present.
Do Not Sign Anything: Do not sign any “non-disclosure agreements,” “waivers,” or other documents presented by the fraternity or university without legal review. You may unknowingly waive critical legal rights.
Avoid Confrontation: Do not allow your child to confront fraternity members or leadership directly. This can escalate the situation, destroy evidence, or further traumatize your child.
Let Us Handle It: Once you retain Attorney911, we will handle all communications with the responsible parties. Our firm’s direct contact will put a stop to any attempts to manipulate or silence your child.

4. Understand Your Rights and the Urgency

Statute of Limitations: In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases is two years from the date of the injury or death. While other states may have different timelines, it is always imperative to act quickly. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and delaying can jeopardize your case.
Consent is Not a Defense: Remember, Texas law (and similar statutes in other states) explicitly states that a victim’s “consent” to hazing is not a legal defense. No one can truly consent to being a victim of assault or torture.
Confidentiality: We understand the fear of retribution. We prioritize the privacy and safety of our clients and work diligently to protect them throughout the legal process.

5. Call Attorney911 Immediately: Your Free Consultation Awaits

The single most important step you can take is to contact experienced hazing litigation attorneys as soon as possible.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911: Our legal emergency hotline is available 24/7. Don’t hesitate to reach out, even in the middle of the night.
Email ralph@atty911.com: Send us an email with a brief description of your situation.
Schedule a Free Consultation: We offer comprehensive, no-obligation consultations. We will review your case, explain your legal options, and answer all your questions. We will come to you, or we can arrange a video consultation for families in Warren County and wherever needed.

For families in Warren County, your child’s pain and trauma are real, and the fight for justice is urgent. By taking these critical steps, you empower yourself and your child to stand up against hazing and demand accountability. We are here to guide you every step of the way, just as we are doing for Leonel Bermudez.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline in Warren County and Beyond

If your family in Warren County or anywhere across the country has been impacted by hazing, the time to act is now. The trauma is real, the injuries are severe, and the responsible parties must be held accountable. You don’t have to face this nightmare alone.

We are Attorney911, and we stand ready to be your legal emergency hotline. We understand the pain, anger, and confusion you’re experiencing, and we are fiercely committed to securing justice for hazing victims and their families.

Warren County Families: Call Your Legal Emergency Hotline Today!

The critical first step is to speak with an experienced hazing litigation attorney who understands the complexities of these cases and has a proven track record of fighting powerful institutions. Our team is actively engaged in this fight, and we bring that same aggressive, data-driven approach directly to your case, no matter where you are located.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

This hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, because justice can’t wait. We know that these emergencies often strike at the worst possible times, and we are here to provide immediate support and guidance.

Email: You can also reach our lead attorney directly at ralph@atty911.com.

Website: Visit us online at attorney911.com to learn more about our firm and our commitment to hazing victims.

We Work on Contingency: Zero Upfront Cost for Warren County Families

We understand that pursuing a complex legal case can seem financially daunting. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis.

You pay us absolutely nothing upfront.
We only get paid if we win your case through a settlement or a verdict.
Our fees are taken as a percentage of the recovery, meaning our success is directly tied to yours.

This model ensures that every family, regardless of financial means, has access to premier legal representation against national fraternities, universities, and other powerful entities. Your focus should be on your child’s healing, not on legal bills.

Nationwide Service: Our Reach Extends to Warren County, Virginia

While Attorney911 is headquartered in Houston, Texas, with additional offices in Austin and Beaumont, our commitment to hazing victims knows no geographical bounds. We regularly serve clients across the nation, and we are fully equipped to represent families in Warren County.

Federal Court Authority: Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and our experience in federal civil rights litigation, allows us to pursue cases in federal jurisdiction, which is often crucial when dealing with national organizations.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello’s licensure in both Texas and New York provides a strategic advantage for cases involving national fraternities that may be headquartered or operate across state lines.
Remote Consultations: We offer convenient and confidential video consultations, allowing you to connect with our attorneys from your home in Warren County, or wherever you may be.
Travel Commitment: When necessary, our attorneys will travel to Warren County for depositions, client meetings, and trials, ensuring your case receives personalized attention and aggressive representation on the ground.

Hazing is a problem that plagues fraternities, sororities, sports teams, clubs, and various organizations at universities throughout Virginia and across the United States. Whether your child attends George Mason University, James Madison University, Shenandoah University, or any other institution, the risks of hazing are real. Our firm is prepared to handle cases that arise from any of these scenarios in Warren County and beyond.

For Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing: Your Opportunity for Justice

To other former pledges or current members of the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter at the University of Houston, or any other chapter of Pi Kappa Phi or any other Greek organization for that matter: we know Leonel Bermudez was not alone. Our lawsuit alleges a “pattern of similar hazing and policy violations.” Another pledge lost consciousness during a workout. Others were present during the waterboarding, the forced eating, the physical abuse.

You, too, have rights. You, too, may be entitled to compensation for your physical and psychological injuries. We can represent you, ensure your story is heard, and hold every responsible party accountable. As Lupe Pena emphasized, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Joining forces with an experienced firm like Attorney911 not only provides a path to personal justice and healing but also contributes to a larger movement to end hazing nationwide. Your courage in coming forward can protect countless other students from enduring the same torment.

Take Action Today: The Path to Healing and Accountability Starts Here

Don’t let fear, shame, or the intimidating power of institutions prevent you from seeking justice. Your child’s future, and the safety of countless other students, depends on people like you speaking up.

Contact Attorney911 today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain how we can fight aggressively for your family in Warren County.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.
Email: ralph@atty911.com

We’re ready to put our expertise, our insider knowledge, and our unwavering dedication to work for you. Let us be your champions in the fight against hazing.