If you’re reading this, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. In Burlington County, just like anywhere else, parents send their children off to college with dreams of academic success, lasting friendships, and a bright future. Instead, your child may have encountered a culture of abuse, humiliation, and senseless violence disguised as “tradition.” They were supposed to make friends at college, and instead, they were tortured. Their trust was betrayed, and their well-being shattered. We understand what you’re going through. We are here to help families in Burlington County fight back against the insidious problem of hazing that continues to plague our universities and devastate our children.

Hazing is not a harmless rite of passage; it is an act of violence that can lead to severe physical injury, lasting psychological trauma, and even death. It happens in fraternities, sororities, sports teams, clubs, and other student organizations. And it’s happening right here in communities like Burlington County, affecting students attending colleges and universities throughout New Jersey and beyond.

At Attorney911, we are at the forefront of this fight. We don’t just talk about hazing; we’re actively fighting it right now in a landmark $10 million lawsuit. Our firm, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, is fiercely dedicated to holding every responsible party accountable – from the individual perpetrators to the national fraternities and the universities that allow these practices to fester. We believe that by aggressively pursuing justice for victims, we can send a clear message that this behavior will not be tolerated, and we can prevent future tragedies in Burlington County and across the nation.

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

Burlington County Families: This Is What Hazing Looks Like. This Is What We Do About It.

This case happened recently in Houston, Texas, but the same patterns of hazing occur at universities attended by students from Burlington County. The same national fraternities operate chapters at institutions throughout New Jersey. The same negligence often plagues universities near Burlington County. And we commit to fighting for Burlington County families with the same aggression and dedication we are bringing to this ongoing case.

We are currently representing Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members. This is not a theoretical fight; this is a battle we are waging right now in a Harris County Civil District Court, making national headlines.

📰 Media Coverage – Multiple Outlets Document Our Fight

This significant case has garnered extensive media attention, shining a light on the severe consequences of hazing and our firm’s commitment to justice. Parents in Burlington County should understand that these stories reflect a national crisis, one to which we are providing a resounding legal response.

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 Chronicle	November 22, 2025	UH fraternity hazing lawsuit
Houston Public Media	November 24, 2025	University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing

Primary Source – Defendant’s Own Statement

The national fraternity itself has acknowledged the severity of the situation. Their swift action, coming just before our lawsuit, speaks volumes.

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

💰 Damages Sought: $10 Million

The lawsuit was filed in Harris County Civil District Court on November 21, 2025. Our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, are representing Leonel Bermudez. The defendants include the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (specifically the University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter), the Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, their Housing Corporation, the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, the fraternity president, the pledgemaster, several current and former members, and even a former member’s spouse, as hazing occurred at their residence. This comprehensive approach to litigation ensures every responsible party is held accountable.

The Case That Shows Burlington County Families Why We Fight

The Plaintiff: Leonel Bermudez

Leonel Bermudez was not even officially enrolled at the University of Houston yet. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member planning to transfer to UH for the upcoming spring semester. Imagine the betrayal: subjecting someone to such horrific abuse even before they officially become a part of the university community.

Leonel accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity at the University of Houston on September 16, 2025. What followed were weeks of systematic abuse, torture, and hazing that led to his hospitalization for three nights and four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

Why This Matters to Burlington County Families:

Pi Kappa Phi has over 150 chapters across America, including chapters at universities near Burlington County. The same dangerous “traditions” that hospitalized our client could easily be happening within these organizations.
A university’s liability: Institutions of higher education near Burlington County face the same oversight responsibilities and potential failures as the University of Houston.
Aggressive Representation: If your child is being hazed in Burlington County, we will fight for your family with the same unwavering commitment and legal prowess that we are bringing to Leonel’s case.

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

Lupe Peña emphasized our firm’s mission to ABC13: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Our fight for Leonel is a fight for every student in Burlington County who might be at risk.

What Happened: The Hazing Timeline

The timeline of Leonel’s ordeal reveals a horrifying progression of abuse.

Date	Event
Sept 16, 2025	Pledge accepts bid to Pi Kappa Phi
Sept 16 – Nov 3	Weeks of systematic hazing, abuse, and torture
Oct 13, 2025	Another pledge hog-tied face-down on table with object in mouth for over an hour
Oct 15, 2025	A pledge lost consciousness and collapsed during forced workout — other pledges had to elevate his legs until he recovered
Nov 3, 2025	THE INCIDENT: Victim forced to do 100+ pushups, 500 squats, other exercises while reciting fraternity creed under threat of immediate expulsion — became so exhausted he could not stand without help
Nov 4-5, 2025	Victim could not move, condition worsening
Nov 6, 2025	Mother rushes victim to hospital — passing brown urine (sign of muscle breakdown)
Nov 6-10, 2025	3 nights, 4 days hospitalized — diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure
Nov 14, 2025	Pi Kappa Phi National officially closes Beta Nu Chapter (per their own website statement)
Nov 21, 2025	$10 MILLION LAWSUIT filed by Attorney911 in Harris County — ABC13, KHOU 11 coverage same day
Nov 22, 2025	Houston Chronicle covers lawsuit
Nov 24, 2025	Houston Public Media reveals $10 million figure, additional hazing details

What Hazing Really Looks Like: The Hazing Activities Exposed in Our Lawsuit

“Hazing” often conjures images of harmless pranks or mild discomfort. But as the Bermudez case starkly illustrates, modern hazing is far more sinister, involving calculated psychological and physical torture that leaves lasting scars. This is not just roughhousing; this is criminal abuse.

Waterboarding / Simulated Drowning:

KHOU reported “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” where pledges were sprayed in the face with a hose while doing calisthenics. They were forced to run repeatedly under the threat of being waterboarded. This is a form of torture, a practice considered a war crime when inflicted upon enemy combatants. Yet, fraternity members inflicted it on young men seeking camaraderie.

Forced Eating Until Vomiting:

Leonel and other pledges were made to consume “large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns” until they vomited. Our lawsuit documents this “forced consumption of milk and food to the point of vomiting.” Even more horrifying, they were then “forced to continue running sprints while clearly in physical distress,” often compelled to lie in vomit-soaked grass. This goes far beyond any concept of “team building.”

Extreme Physical Punishment:

The lawsuit details grueling physical demands, including “100+ pushups, 500 squats, and other exercises.” Pledges endured “high-volume suicides” (sprinting drills), “bear crawls,” “wheelbarrows,” “save-you-brother drills,” “two-mile warmups,” and “repeated 100-yard crawls.” All of this was forced while reciting the fraternity creed, under explicit threat of immediate expulsion. It continued until a victim could not stand without help, even after one pledge reportedly lost consciousness during these workouts on October 15. The lawsuit also alleges “being struck with wooden paddles.” This level of physical exertion and abuse, especially when paired with sleep deprivation, is extremely dangerous.

Psychological Torture & Humiliation:

The hazing extended to severe psychological torment. Pledges were “forced to strip to underwear in cold weather” and required to “carry a fanny pack with objects of sexual nature at all times.” Another egregious incident involved “another pledge hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.” Such acts, coupled with “threats of physical punishment and/or expulsion for non-compliance,” an “enforced dress code,” forced “study hours,” and weekly “interviews,” are designed to degrade, control, and terrorize.

Sleep Deprivation & Exhaustion:

Pledges were “forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours,” leading to severe exhaustion that impacted their daily lives and ability to function.

These are not isolated incidents of misbehavior. This reflects a calculated, systematic process of breakdown and control through abuse. And while this happened in Houston, similar stories unfold in communities across the country, including in New Jersey, at colleges and universities students from Burlington County may attend.

The Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure

The physical toll of these hazing rituals was immediate and severe. Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized with a life-threatening condition:

What is Rhabdomyolysis?

Rhabdomyolysis is a serious medical condition where damaged muscle tissue breaks down rapidly, releasing harmful proteins like myoglobin into the bloodstream. This myoglobin can then damage the kidneys, leading to “acute kidney failure” and, potentially, death. It is a direct result of extreme physical activity that overwhelms the body’s ability to cope, or from physical trauma.

Our Client’s Medical Evidence:

Upon hospitalization, Leonel was “passing brown urine,” a classic indicator of myoglobin in the urine (myoglobinuria), which is a definitive sign of severe muscle breakdown.
Lab tests revealed “very high creatine kinase levels,” further confirming extensive muscle damage.
He suffered from “acute kidney failure,” a life-threatening complication requiring immediate and intensive medical intervention.
He remained hospitalized for “3 nights, 4 days,” underscoring the severity of his condition.
Media reports noted his “muscle pain and difficulty walking” upon admission, consistent with the diagnosis.

This is the very same medical condition Attorney Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in litigating, having handled rhabdomyolysis hazing cases before. We understand the complex medical aspects and the long-term implications of such severe injuries.

Institutional Responses – On the Record

The official statements from the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, while outwardly expressing concern, reveal an underlying attempt to mitigate damage and protect their reputations.

University of Houston Spokesperson (Houston Public Media, Nov 24, 2025):

“The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards. The University is conducting its own investigation in coordination with law enforcement and with the cooperation of the fraternity and its national leadership. Pending the outcome of these investigations, any individual found responsible for hazing will face disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion and potential criminal charges.”

The university’s statement, while outwardly condemning the actions, implicitly admits that such disturbing events occurred on their watch, violating their own standards. Their mention of “potential criminal charges” indicates their belief in the severity of the alleged conduct, a belief we share.

Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters – Their Own Statement (pikapp.org, Nov 21, 2025):

“Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity closed its Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards. Pi Kappa Phi takes all allegations of hazing seriously. This action reflects our commitment to upholding the Fraternity’s values and expectations while prioritizing the well-being of our members.”

“We thank the University of Houston for its collaboration and leadership. Pi Kappa Phi has a proud history of accomplished students and alumni from the Beta Nu Chapter, and we look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time and continuing our partnership with the University of Houston in the years ahead.”

This statement is a masterclass in corporate public relations, but our legal team sees through it. They closed the chapter effective November 14, 2025, a week before our lawsuit was filed on November 21, 2025. This preemptive action signals a clear “consciousness of wrongdoing” and an attempt to distance the national organization from liability once details of the hazing became known. Their claim of “prioritizing the well-being of our members” rings hollow when a member is hospitalized due to their organization’s actions. Furthermore, their expressed eagerness to “return to campus” illustrates a lack of genuine remorse for the victim and an expectation that this will merely be a temporary setback. It reveals a culture that prioritizes organizational continuity over genuine reform. This national organization has over 150 chapters across America, and we are investigating how many others may be operating under similar dangerous practices.

Why This Case Matters to Burlington County Families

Proof That “Tradition” Is Torture: The Bermudez case shatters any illusion that hazing is harmless. These are not pranks or mild inconveniences; they are systematic abuse and torture. This same type of abuse can tragically unfold at institutions to which Burlington County families send their children, including Rowan University, Stockton University, Rutgers University, and other colleges and universities in New Jersey and the broader Mid-Atlantic region.
Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston not only knew about hazing in their Greek system (having faced a prior lawsuit in 2017), but they also owned and controlled the very fraternity house where some of this horrific hazing took place. Universities near Burlington County, such as those within the New Jersey public university system, have a similar duty and power to regulate Greek life on their campuses. When they fail to act, they share responsibility for the harm caused. Burlington County families deserve to know that the institutions promising to educate their children are also committed to protecting them from harm.
National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters swiftly dissolved the UH chapter once the hazing was exposed. This action is not a sign of diligence but an admission that they knew the conduct was wrong. National fraternities, including many with chapters near Burlington County, are aware of the potential for hazing, yet repeatedly fail to implement effective controls.
Victims Are Afraid: Leonel Bermudez’s fear of retribution for speaking out is a common and understandable response for hazing victims. Students from Burlington County who are hazed face similar pressures to remain silent. Our firm ensures their safety and protects their interests every step of the way.
One Brave Victim Can Protect Burlington County Students: As Lupe Peña stated, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do.” By stepping forward, individuals like Leonel Bermudez and their families in Burlington County can become catalysts for change, saving countless students from similar trauma.
$10 Million Sends a Message: The significant damages sought in this lawsuit are intended to send an unequivocal message to fraternities, universities, and national organizations: the price for torturing our kids is astronomical. Burlington County families have the power to send the same message when they entrust their cases to us.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

The reality of hazing in America is often far more brutal than what most people understand. It’s not “boys being boys.” It’s not “tradition.” It’s not “building brotherhood.”
IT IS:

Assault
Battery
Torture
Reckless endangerment
Sometimes manslaughter
Sometimes murder

These aren’t exaggerated claims; they are the grim truths revealed by tragic incidents across the country.

The Statistics are Alarming:

A staggering 55% of students in Greek organizations experience hazing.
Even 40% of student athletes report hazing.
Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every single year in the United States.
Tragically, 95% of students who are hazed do NOT report it, often due to fear, shame, or misplaced loyalty.
Hazing occurs in a wide array of student organizations: fraternities, sororities, sports teams, marching bands, ROTC, and other clubs.

The Institutional Failure:

Universities know hazing happens. Time and again, institutions of higher education demonstrate awareness of hazing within their systems.
National organizations know hazing happens. Their own internal reports and the settlements they pay validate this knowledge.
They possess the power and resources to stop it.
Yet, they consistently choose not to act – or only act superficially – until a student is severely injured, hospitalized, or dies.
Only then do they typically initiate investigations, “suspend” chapters, or “dissolve” them, often claiming to be “shocked” by the revelations. Our legal team recognizes this pattern of denial and delayed action.

Types of Hazing Incidents

Based on our Pi Kappa Phi case and other documented hazing incidents from around the country, hazing encompasses a wide range of abuses:

Category	Examples
Physical Abuse	Beatings, paddling (as alleged in the Bermudez case), branding, burning, forced exercise to exhaustion, sleep deprivation.
Forced Consumption	Binge drinking of alcohol (a leading cause of hazing deaths), eating until vomiting (as seen with Leonel Bermudez), consuming non-food substances.
Sleep Deprivation	Forced late nights, extremely early mornings, and disrupted sleep schedules that impair physical and mental function.
Psychological Torture	Humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, isolation, threats, forcing pledges to engage in demeaning acts (like carrying sexual objects).
Sexual Abuse	Forced nudity, forced sexual acts, sexually suggestive tasks, or outright sexual assault.
Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning	As inflicted upon Leonel Bermudez, simulating drowning is a severe form of torture.
Exposure	Forcing individuals to endure extreme cold or heat, or confinement in small, dark spaces.
Servitude	Compelling pledges to perform tasks such as forced cleaning, driving members at all hours, or running endless errands.

The Medical (and Human) Consequences:

Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure: The specific, life-threatening injury sustained by our client in the UH case.
Alcohol Poisoning: A tragically common cause of death in hazing incidents involving forced binge drinking.
Traumatic Brain Injury: Resulting from beatings, falls, or other physical trauma.
Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From extreme weather exposure.
Cardiac Arrest: From extreme physical exertion or pre-existing conditions exacerbated by abuse.
PTSD, Anxiety, Depression: The long-term psychological and emotional scars that can be just as devastating as physical injuries.
DEATH: The ultimate, preventable tragedy that families in states like New Jersey have endured because of hazing.

These are not hypothetical dangers. These are the documented realities that students from Burlington County face when they step onto a college campus and encounter these abusive “traditions.”

Who Is Responsible: Every Entity Who Participated Or Allowed It

One of the most crucial aspects of hazing litigation is identifying every liable party. Hazing is rarely the fault of a single individual; it is the product of a system that often involves multiple layers of negligence and complicity. In the Bermudez case, we are casting a wide net to ensure comprehensive accountability:

From our Pi Kappa Phi case, we are pursuing liability against:

Defendant Category	Why They’re Liable
Local Chapter (Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi)	Directly organized and conducted the hazing. The members are individually liable for their actions.
Chapter Officers (President, Pledgemaster)	As leaders, they bear significant responsibility for directing, allowing, and failing to stop hazing activities.
Individual Members	All members who actively participated in hazing, failed to intervene, or were complicit in the abuse can be held accountable.
Former Members	If hazing activities occurred at their residence or they facilitated the abuse, they are liable for their involvement.
Spouses of Members	If a spouse allowed hazing activities to occur on their property, they can be named under premises liability.
National Organization (Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity)	The national headquarters is responsible for overseeing its chapters, enforcing anti-hazing policies, and providing proper training and supervision. Their failure to do so, especially with a history like the Andrew Coffey tragedy, makes them critically liable.
University (University of Houston)	The university bears responsibility due to its ownership or control over the fraternity house, its power to regulate Greek life, and its failure to protect students, particularly given prior hazing incidents on campus.
Insurance Carriers	Crucially, these entities often hold substantial insurance policies specifically designed to cover such liabilities. These are the “deep pockets” that provide the means for victims to receive significant compensation.

At Attorney911, we are experts at unraveling these complex webs of responsibility. The goal is not merely to target individual college students (although they are held accountable for their actions) but to confront the institutions and organizations with substantial assets and insurance coverage who enable hazing. These are the “deep pockets” that can truly effect change, and our strategy involves identifying and pursuing every single one. Burlington County families deserve to have these powerful entities held accountable.

Precedent Cases: Multi-Million Dollar Proof That Hazing Cases Win

Beyond our current $10 million lawsuit, a long history of precedent cases demonstrates how hazing victims and their families have successfully sought justice, resulting in multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. These cases are not merely statistics; they are solemn warnings to all fraternities, universities, and national organizations that hazing carries a monumental cost.

The Message to Burlington County Fraternities, Universities, and National Organizations: Hazing Costs MILLIONS. We Have the Receipts.

These legal victories prove that aggressive litigation not only secures compensation for victims but also drives legislative change and accountability. The same legal strategies and determination apply to cases involving students from Burlington County.

Landmark Verdicts & Settlements – They Will Pay

STONE FOLTZ – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)

💰 TOTAL: $10.1 MILLION+

Defendant	Amount	Source
Bowling Green State University	$2.9 Million	AP News
Pi Kappa Alpha + Individuals	$7.2 Million	Wikipedia
TOTAL	$10.1 Million	Largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history

What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, a pledge at Bowling Green State University, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” initiation event. He was found unresponsive and tragically passed away days later.

Relevance to Our Case & Burlington County: This case, resulting in over $10 million paid by both the university and the national fraternity, sets a direct precedent for our $10 million demand. It clearly demonstrates that both institutions and Greek organizations are held liable for hazing outcomes.

MAXWELL GRUVER – Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017)

💰 TOTAL: $6.1 MILLION VERDICT

Outcome	Details	Source
Jury Verdict	$6.1 Million	AP News
Criminal Conviction	Negligent homicide – prison time	Wikipedia
Legislation	Max Gruver Act – made hazing a FELONY in Louisiana	State Law

What Happened: In September 2017, LSU freshman Max Gruver died from alcohol poisoning after a Phi Delta Theta hazing ritual where he was forced to consume copious amounts of alcohol as punishment for incorrect answers during a “Bible Study” exercise. His BAC was 0.495, more than six times the legal limit.

Relevance to Our Case & Burlington County: This case shows that juries are willing to deliver multi-million dollar verdicts in hazing cases, even leading to criminal convictions and new felony hazing laws. It underscores the severity with which the legal system views these incidents.

TIMOTHY PIAZZA – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017)

💰 TOTAL: $110+ MILLION (Multiple Settlements)

Outcome	Details	Source
Penn State Settlement	Confidential – estimated $110M+	Wikipedia
Criminal Charges	18 fraternity members charged	Multiple sources
Convictions	Involuntary manslaughter, hazing, assault	AP News
Legislation	Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law – Pennsylvania	State Law

What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza, a Penn State pledge, died after participating in a Beta Theta Pi hazing ritual known as “the gauntlet,” where he was forced to consume 18 alcoholic drinks in 82 minutes. He fell multiple times, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited 12 hours to call 911, and the entire incident was captured on security cameras.

Relevance to Our Case & Burlington County: This case, with its estimated $110 million-plus settlement, highlights that strong documentary evidence (like in our case) can lead to astronomical recoveries. It also demonstrates how hazing cases can become catalysts for significant legislative reform.

ANDREW COFFEY – Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

⚠️ THE SAME FRATERNITY AS OUR UH CASE

Outcome	Details	Source
Criminal Charges	9 fraternity members charged	Wikipedia
Chapter Status	Permanently closed at FSU	University action
Civil Suit	Settlement (amount confidential)	Family lawsuit

What Happened: On November 3, 2017, Andrew Coffey, a Pi Kappa Phi pledge at FSU, died from alcohol poisoning after being compelled to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a “Big Brother Night” event.

Relevance to Our Case & Burlington County: This is a devastating blow to Pi Kappa Phi. Andrew Coffey was pledged to the same national fraternity that is now being sued in the Bermudez case. This clearly establishes a “pattern of negligence” by the national organization. They knew about deadly hazing within their ranks eight years before Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized, yet clearly failed to implement effective safeguards. This history is critical for proving foreseeability and justifying punitive damages against Pi Kappa Phi.

University of Houston / Pi Kappa Alpha (2017-2019)

⚠️ PREVIOUS UH HAZING CASE – SAME UNIVERSITY

Outcome	Details	Source
Injury	Lacerated spleen	ABC13
Lawsuit	$1 Million filed	Former pledge Jared Munoz
Criminal Case	Dismissed on constitutional grounds	ABC13

Relevance to Our Case & Burlington County: This is direct evidence that the University of Houston had prior knowledge of severe hazing on its campus, leading to student hospitalization. This establishes institutional awareness of the problem and demonstrates their failure to implement adequate protections, significantly strengthening our case for institutional negligence against the university.

📊 Nationwide Hazing Settlement/Verdict Summary

Fraternity	Cases	Total Payouts (approx.)	Status
Pi Kappa Alpha	Stone Foltz (BGSU), UT Austin 2017	$10.1M+	Multiple chapters closed
Phi Delta Theta	Maxwell Gruver (LSU)	$6.1M verdict	Max Gruver Act passed
Beta Theta Pi	Timothy Piazza (Penn State)	$110M+	Piazza Law passed
Pi Kappa Phi	Andrew Coffey (FSU), Leonel Bermudez (UH)	Confidential (Coffey) / $10M lawsuit (Bermudez)	OUR CASE, documented history of fatalities
Sigma Alpha Epsilon	Alabama 2023	Pending	TBI lawsuit
Delta Chi	Adam Oakes (VCU)	$4M+ settlement	Adam’s Law passed
Sigma Phi Epsilon	Tucker Hipps (Clemson)	$500K+	Settlement

These cases illustrate a clear and consistent pattern: when hazing leads to severe injury or death, the responsible parties are forced to pay substantial amounts. This history is crucial because it demonstrates that our demands are not arbitrary but are aligned with what courts and juries have deemed appropriate compensation for such egregious acts.

🏛️ Laws Created Because of Hazing Deaths

These tragedies often spark legislative action, transforming personal loss into lasting change.

Law	State	Year	Key Provisions
Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law	Pennsylvania	2018	Felony charges for hazing causing death; immunity for reporting
Max Gruver Act	Louisiana	2018	Made hazing a FELONY; increased penalties
Stop Campus Hazing Act	Federal	Pending	Requires colleges to publicly report hazing incidents
Collin’s Law	Ohio	2021	Named after Collin Wiant; felony hazing charges
Texas Hazing Law	Texas	Existing	Criminal penalties + consent is NO defense

These laws reflect a growing national consensus that hazing is a serious crime, not a casual college prank. They also provide new legal avenues for victims and their families to seek justice.

Why These Precedents Matter for Our Case

Our $10 Million Demand Is Supported by Precedent: The $10.1 million settlement in the Stone Foltz case proves that a figure of this magnitude is entirely reasonable for severe hazing incidents. Though Leonel survived, his injuries – including kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis – are life-altering and carry significant medical, long-term care, and pain and suffering costs, similar to the scope of damages in death cases.
Pi Kappa Phi Has a Death on Their Record: The death of Andrew Coffey, just eight years prior to Leonel’s hospitalization, is a damning fact. It demonstrates that Pi Kappa Phi National knew the deadly potential of hazing within their organization, yet failed to enact changes sufficient to prevent another severe injury. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence that supports our claims.
University of Houston Has Prior Hazing Incidents: The 2017 hospitalization of Jared Munoz due to hazing at UH confirms that the university had direct knowledge of dangerous hazing practices on its campus years before Leonel Bermudez was injured. Their failure to prevent repeat incidents points to systemic institutional negligence.
Juries Hate Hazing: The $6.1 million verdict homeowners’ insurance in the Gruver case demonstrates that juries are outraged by hazing and are willing to award substantial sums. Acts as egregious as those committed against Leonel – waterboarding, forced eating, 500 squats, wooden paddles – will evoke a similar response.
Criminal Charges May Follow: Just as in many precedent cases, the severe nature of the hazing against Leonel could lead to criminal charges under laws like the Texas Hazing Statute. This parallel legal action often strengthens civil claims.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding the Legal Framework for Hazing Victims

When a hazing incident occurs, understanding the relevant legal framework is crucial for a victim and their family in Burlington County. While our firm is based in Texas, the principles of civil liability, premises liability, and negligent supervision are generally applicable across most states, including New Jersey.

Understanding Hazing Laws – Texas and Beyond

For families in Burlington County, it is important to understand that while we frequently reference Texas law (where our firm is based and currently litigating), similar anti-hazing statutes are in effect in many states, including New Jersey. Furthermore, federal civil rights claims and negligence claims extend nationwide, meaning our federal court authority enables us to pursue your case regardless of where the hazing occurred.

Texas Hazing Laws (Detailed Reference)

The Texas Education Code § 37.151-37.157 forms a robust legal backbone against hazing.

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151):

“Hazing” means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act occurring on or off campus that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in an organization, if the act:

(1) 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;
(2) involves sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other similar activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student;
(3) 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;
(4) is any activity that involves a violation of the Penal Code;
(5) 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.

Burlington County Application: Most states, including New Jersey, have very similar legal definitions of hazing. Regardless of the specific state statute, the hazing your child experienced likely violates both state criminal laws and provides grounds for a strong civil lawsuit to seek compensation.

Criminal Penalties:
Beyond civil liability, hazing carries significant criminal penalties in Texas:

Offense Level	Conduct	Punishment
Class B Misdemeanor	Engaging in hazing	Up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine
Class A Misdemeanor	Hazing causing serious bodily injury	Up to 1 year jail, $4,000 fine
State Jail Felony	Hazing causing death	180 days – 2 years state jail, $10,000 fine

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
Under Texas law, organizations that condone or encourage hazing, or whose officers, members, pledges, or alumni commit or assist in hazing, can face penalties including fines up to $10,000 and even denial of the right to operate on campus. This directly impacts national fraternities and universities.

University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155):
Universities in Texas are legally mandated to report hazing incidents within 30 days of becoming aware of them. A failure to report is itself a Class B Misdemeanor. This underscores the university’s responsibility.

Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154):
This is one of the most vital aspects of Texas hazing law:

“It is not a defense to prosecution that the person hazed consented to the hazing.”

This directly refutes the common and manipulative defense often used by fraternities: “He agreed to participate.” In Texas, the law clearly states that a student cannot legally consent to being hazed, recognizing the inherent power imbalances and coercion involved.

Civil Liability for Hazing – What Burlington County Victims Can Sue For

Beyond potential criminal charges, victims and their families in Burlington County have powerful civil avenues to pursue justice and financial compensation.

Negligence Claims: Applicable in Burlington County and all states, this is the foundation of many personal injury cases. We must prove that institutions had a duty of care to protect students, that they breached that duty through their actions or inactions regarding hazing, that this breach directly caused the injuries, and that the victim suffered damages as a result.
Premises Liability: If hazing occurred on university-owned or controlled property, or at a private residence (as in the Bermudez case), property owners can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment and allowing dangerous conditions (i.e., hazing) to exist.
Negligent Supervision: This applies when national organizations fail to adequately supervise their chapters, and when universities fail to monitor Greek life activities, allowing hazing to occur.
Assault and Battery: Individual fraternity members who physically harmed a student can be sued personally for intentional harmful contact.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: This claim is particularly relevant for the severe psychological trauma inflicted by hazing, where acts like waterboarding and degradation constitute outrageous conduct causing severe emotional distress.

Burlington County Families: These civil claims are not unique to Texas; they exist in virtually every state. This means that your Burlington County hazing case can proceed regardless of local criminal prosecution decisions, leveraging the broad general principles of tort law that unite legal systems across America.

Why Attorney911: The Lawyers Fighting for Burlington County Hazing Victims

When your child has been subjected to the trauma of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the nuances of this complex area of law and is unafraid to challenge powerful institutions. Attorney911 is that firm, and we are ready to fight for families in Burlington County.

The Attorney911 Approach – How We Serve Burlington County Hazing Victims

When a legal emergency strikes—whether it’s on a university campus in Texas, New Jersey, or anywhere across America—we move not just fast and decisively, but also with strategic intelligence. Our approach is designed to secure maximum accountability and compensation for hazing victims.

For Burlington County hazing victims, our team:

Builds cases with expert witnesses, working with medical professionals, Greek life culture experts, and specialists in institutional negligence to paint a comprehensive picture of harm and responsibility.
Preserves evidence immediately, instructing clients on how to secure crucial texts, photos, medical records, and witness statements before they disappear or are tampered with. (See Video: “Using Your Phone to Document Evidence” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs)
Negotiates from strength, leveraging our active litigation in a $10 million hazing case to demonstrate that we are not afraid to go to trial and have a proven track record.
Travels to Burlington County for depositions, meetings, and trials when necessary, understanding that distance should never be a barrier to justice.
Provides remote consultations, allowing Burlington County families to connect with our attorneys conveniently and confidentially via video call, ensuring immediate access to expert legal advice.

If a university, fraternity, or insurance company attempts to silence or undermine Burlington County hazing victims, we are prepared to take the fight to court.

Why Burlington County Families Choose Attorney911

25+ Years of Courtroom Experience: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, brings over two decades of battle-tested experience to every case. This deep well of courtroom knowledge is directly beneficial to Burlington County families facing complex hazing litigation.
Former Insurance Defense Insight: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are former insurance defense attorneys. This means we possess invaluable insider knowledge of how insurance companies and large institutions strategize, undervalue claims, and attempt to minimize payouts. We’ve seen their playbook from the inside and use that expertise to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for our clients.
Federal Court Admissions: Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and other federal courts, grants us the authority to litigate hazing cases nationwide, including those originating in Burlington County. This is crucial when dealing with national fraternities and universities that often have operations across state lines.
Dual-State Bar Admission: Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas and New York, providing a strategic advantage when dealing with national fraternities, many of which are headquartered or have significant operations in the Northeast.
Se Habla Español: Our bilingual staff ensures that Spanish-speaking families in Burlington County can communicate comfortably and effectively, removing language barriers to justice.
Nationwide Hazing Expertise: We are not just general personal injury lawyers; we are currently litigating a $10 million hazing case against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This active, high-profile case demonstrates our specialized expertise and aggressive approach, which we bring to hazing victims across the country.
Payment Flexibility – Contingency Fees: We understand that the financial strain of medical bills and lost income after a hazing incident can be overwhelming. Therefore, we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means Burlington County families pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if and when we win your case. (See Video: “How Contingency Fees Work” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc)
Real Emotional Investment: What truly sets us apart is our deep emotional investment in hazing victims. We’ve witnessed the devastating impact of hazing firsthand, most recently with Leonel Bermudez. We see your child as a person, not just a case file. We will fight tirelessly for Burlington County families because we genuinely care about achieving justice and preventing future tragedies.

Attorney Profiles – The Lawyers Fighting for Burlington County Hazing Victims

RALPH P. MANGINELLO – Managing Partner – Serving Burlington County Hazing Victims

Ralph Manginello is the founder of Attorney911 and a formidable legal advocate with a quarter-century of experience. Burlington County families seeking justice for hazing can reach Ralph directly via email at ralph@atty911.com or through our 24/7 hotline at 1-888-ATTY-911. Video consultations are readily available.

Bar Admissions & Licenses

Ralph’s extensive qualifications demonstrate his capacity for high-stakes litigation:

Jurisdiction	Status	Details
Texas State Bar	Active since November 6, 1998	Bar Card Number: 24007597
New York State Bar Association	Member	Dual-state licensed, crucial for national fraternity cases
United States District Court, Southern District of Texas	Admitted	Federal litigation authority, enabling nationwide cases

Education & Background

A proud Texan at heart, Ralph’s roots trace back to New York. He earned his Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law Houston and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Texas at Austin. His journalism background instills a relentless investigative drive—a critical asset in uncovering hidden hazing truths. Notably, Ralph is a Cheshire Academy Hall of Fame Inductee (2021), highlighting his collegiate sports background and understanding of team dynamics where hazing often occurs.

Strategic Advantage – Former Insurance Defense Attorney: Ralph Manginello began his career working on the defense side for insurance companies. This invaluable experience provides him with an unparalleled understanding of how these powerful entities evaluate cases, build defenses, and strategize to minimize payouts. He knows their playbook inside and out, allowing him to anticipate their moves and develop aggressive counter-strategies to maximize recovery for our clients.

High-Profile Case Experience

Ralph’s career is marked by involvement in nationally recognized cases:

BP Texas City Explosion Litigation (2005): His participation in this multi-billion dollar mass tort against BP, following a refinery explosion that killed 15 and injured over 180, showcases his ability to handle complex, high-stakes litigation against massive corporate defendants—experience directly applicable to confronting national fraternities and universities.
Federal Appellate Experience: His experience in federal civil rights litigation, including the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals, further demonstrates his capacity for taking on significant, multi-layered cases, a common characteristic of hazing lawsuits.
DWI/DUI Defense: Ralph’s track record of hundreds of DWI/DUI defenses, often won by exposing flawed evidence and police inconsistencies, reflects an aggressive, evidence-challenging approach that is directly transferred to hazing investigations where institutions attempt to hide or destroy critical evidence.

Hazing Litigation Expertise

Ralph has a specialized focus on hazing litigation, covering:

Rhabdomyolysis injury recovery and litigation (directly relevant to the Bermudez case).
Kappa Sigma fraternity litigation and Texas A&M University hazing cases.
Hospitalization compensation claims and life-threatening hazing incident representation.
Wrongful death from hazing activities.

Why Burlington County Families Choose Ralph Manginello:

Ralph’s profile presents a compelling choice for families in Burlington County because he combines extensive litigation experience with direct hazing-specific knowledge and a unique insider’s perspective on defense strategies. His background as a former athlete, youth coach, and father of three further demonstrates a personal understanding of the environments and perils that lead to hazing, deeply connecting him to the needs of families in crisis.

LUPE ELENO PEÑA – Associate Attorney (Male) – Serving Burlington County Hazing Victims

Lupe Eleno Peña is a dedicated advocate whose background as a former national insurance defense attorney provides Attorney911 with a critical edge. Burlington County families affected by hazing can contact Mr. Peña directly via lupe@atty911.com or by calling 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free video consultation.

Bar Admissions & Licenses

Jurisdiction	Status	Details
Texas State Bar	Active since December 6, 2012	Bar Card Number: 24084332
United States District Court, Southern District of Texas	Admitted	Federal litigation authority, extending our reach to Burlington County cases

Education & Background

Mr. Peña earned his Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law Houston and a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business from Saint Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. As a third-generation Texan with deep roots to the King Ranch heritage, he embodies a strong connection to the community values that make hazing so profoundly disturbing.

Strategic Advantage – Former National Insurance Defense Attorney: Before joining Attorney911, Mr. Peña worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm. Here, he honed his skills defending insurance companies and corporate clients across a spectrum of complex litigation, including products liability, personal injury defense, and construction law. This experience means Lupe learned firsthand the tactics, valuations, and pressure points insurance companies use to deny or minimize claims. Now, he leverages this “battlefield intelligence” to dislodge their defenses and maximize recovery for injured victims. Every strategy they taught him to use against victims, he now uses to dismantle their defenses.

Current Practice Areas

Mr. Peña’s current practice mirrors the challenges faced by many of our clients, including:

Wrongful Death litigation (highly relevant for fatal hazing incidents).
Dram Shop Liability, holding establishments accountable for over-serving alcohol (critical in cases involving forced alcohol consumption).
Catastrophic Injury Cases.
Commercial Litigation, understanding corporate structures crucial when confronting national fraternities.

Bilingual (Fluent Spanish): Mr. Peña’s fluency in Spanish is invaluable for serving Burlington County’s diverse communities, ensuring that language is never a barrier to justice for Hispanic families affected by hazing.

Why Burlington County Families Choose Lupe Peña:

Mr. Peña epitomizes the “outwork, outsmart, outfight” philosophy of Attorney911. His decade-plus of litigation experience, combined with his specific insider knowledge of national defense strategies, makes him an exceptionally effective advocate. For Burlington County families, this means having an attorney who anticipates the opposition’s moves and is always one step ahead, relentlessly pursuing justice.

What These Cases Win: Families Are Fighting Back

The cases we’ve discussed are not just legal precedents; they are powerful examples of families turning tragedy into triumph by securing substantial compensation and often driving legislative change. These multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements send an unmistakable warning: hazing will not be tolerated, and institutions that enable it will pay a heavy price. This same fierce pursuit of justice is available for families in Burlington County.

Who We Are: Attorney911’s Texas Hazing Intelligence Database

At Attorney911, we operate with a level of precision and strategic intelligence that sets us apart. We don’t guess who might be responsible for hazing; we know. Our firm maintains one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations in Texas. This invaluable database includes over 125 IRS-registered Greek organizations, complete with their Employer Identification Numbers (EINs), exact legal names, and mailing addresses. This goes beyond undergraduate chapters to encompass house corporations, alumni chapters, and honor societies – every single entity behind the Greek letters.

When hazing happens, we already know who to sue.

Why does this matter to families in Burlington County? Because when their child is hazed at a university in New Jersey, the fraternity involved will likely claim they are merely a group of college kids. However, behind those Greek letters are often complex, tax-exempt corporations with EINs, bank accounts, real estate holdings, and substantial insurance policies. We track them all.

For example, our database includes:

Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc with EIN 462267515, located in Frisco, Texas. This is the very entity behind the UH chapter we sued in the Bermudez case. We already knew their corporate structure, their registered agent, and their address before we filed suit.
Pi Kappa Phi Delta Omega Chapter Building Corporation with EIN 371768785, located in Missouri City, Texas.
Kappa Sigma Mu Gamma Chapter Inc with EIN 133048786, located in College Station, Texas.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon Texas Sigma Incorporated with EIN 882755427, located in San Marcos, Texas.
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc Theta Delta with EIN 475370943, located in Houston, Texas.

This meticulous data collection allows us to identify every legal entity that can be held responsible, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in our pursuit of justice for hazing victims. It’s the kind of data-driven legal strategy that powerful institutions fear.

Across the Map: Monitoring Greek Life in Texas Metros

The scale of Greek life across Texas is enormous, and our intelligence database reflects this. The Attorney911 legal team tracks more than 1,423 Greek-related organizations across 25 metropolitan areas in Texas alone.

For instance, while Burlington County is in New Jersey, understanding the scope of Greek life in a major state like Texas can demonstrate the depth of our commitment. The Houston–The Woodlands–Sugar Land metro area, our home base and where the Bermudez case was filed, encompasses 188 Greek organizations. This includes everything from active undergraduate social fraternities and sororities to their alumni groups, house corporations, and even professional or honor fraternities.

When we take on a case, for Burlington County or anywhere else, we know how these vast networks operate. The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez was part of this intricate system, and our database allowed us to target not just the local chapter, but the national organization, its housing corporation, and 13 individual members from the outset. This is the power of data-driven hazing litigation.

National Hazing Death and Injury Tracker: Same Letters, Same Danger

The tragic deaths and devastating injuries caused by hazing are not isolated incidents; they are a national pattern. We track this pattern rigorously, connecting national fraternity patterns to local chapters, and understanding the financial costs that have been imposed on these organizations. This reveals that the “traditions” that harm students in one state are often replicated in others.

Consider Pi Kappa Alpha, also known as Pike, a fraternity common on many college campuses, including those students from Burlington County may attend. This organization has a documented, deadly history:

In 2021, Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University died from alcohol poisoning during a hazing event. The settlement reached $10 million, with funds coming from both the national organization and the university.
In 2012, David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University also died from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event, resulting in a $14 million settlement.
Most recently, in December 2024, Daylen Dunson, who was the chapter president during the Foltz hazing, was ordered to pay $6.5 million in personal liability.

This means Pi Kappa Alpha has paid over $24 million in hazing death settlements and judgments in the last decade.

Parents in Burlington County need to understand: if your child pledges a fraternity like Pi Kappa Alpha or Pi Kappa Phi, they are joining an organization with a proven, multi-million dollar history of hazing deaths and injuries. Same letters. Same traditions. Same danger. Our firm meticulously tracks these incidents to establish pattern evidence and prove foreseeability when we fight for victims.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Guidance for Burlington County Families

If your child in Burlington County has been subjected to hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. While we understand that you and your family are likely overwhelmed, scared, or angry, taking swift and decisive action is paramount to preserving your legal rights and building a strong case.

Client Intake Protocol – What Makes a Viable Burlington County Hazing Case

We evaluate cases from Burlington County and nationwide based on clear criteria to ensure that we can effectively advocate for justice:

Factor	Why It Matters	Burlington County Application
Clear hazing conduct	Activities must meet the legal definition of hazing, demonstrating intent to endanger health.	This applies directly to alleged hazing at universities in or near Burlington County. Our investigation will confirm alignment with state law.
Documented injuries	Physical harm, medical records (hospitalization, ER, doctor’s visits), and diagnostic reports are essential evidence.	Medical records from hospitals and doctors in Burlington County or New Jersey are critical and fully admissible.
Psychological harm	Evidence of emotional distress, PTSD, anxiety, or depression, supported by therapy records.	Counseling and therapy records from mental health professionals in Burlington County are vital for proving non-economic damages.
Identifiable defendants	Knowing who was involved: individual perpetrators, the local organization, national fraternity/sorority, and the university.	We identify chapters and universities near Burlington County, and their national organizations, through our intelligence database.
Evidence available	Preservation of texts, photos, videos, social media, and contact information for witnesses.	Any digital or physical evidence collected in Burlington County should be immediately preserved.
Pattern of abuse	Demonstrates systemic hazing, not an isolated incident; shows institutional failure to act.	Research into the chapter’s history at local New Jersey universities will reveal patterns.
Institutional knowledge	Did the university or national organization know, or should they have known, about hazing risks?	This involves examining the history of any New Jersey institution (and its Greek life) where hazing occurred.
Timing – Statute of Limitations	Most states, including New Jersey, have deadlines (typically 2 years) for filing lawsuits.	Act immediately. The 2-year deadline in many states, including New Jersey, is strict. We help ensure you don’t miss any critical deadlines.

Burlington County Families: If your situation aligns with these factors, please contact us. We can and will represent you, regardless of geographic distance.

Evidence Requirements – What We Need From You

PRESERVE EVERYTHING. DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING. The defense will scrutinize every detail, and any missing information can be used against you.

Evidence Type	What To Save	Importance for Burlington County Case
Medical Records	All hospital records, ER visits, doctor’s notes, medical bills, physical therapy reports, and psychological therapy records.	These documents are essential to prove the extent of your injuries and their direct link to the hazing incident.
Photos/Videos	Images of injuries at all stages of healing, photos or videos of hazing activities, the location where hazing occurred, or any physical evidence.	Visual evidence is powerfully persuasive. If you have any media depicting the hazing or its aftermath, secure it immediately.
Communications	Save every text message, GroupMe chat, Snapchat conversation, Instagram DM, email, or other digital communication related to the haz hazing event, pledgeship, or any threats.	Digital trails are invaluable. This includes messages from members, pledges, or witnesses. DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING.
Witness Information	Full names and contact details of other pledges, active members who witnessed but did not participate, or any other witnesses.	Third-party accounts can corroborate your story and strengthen your case against claims of consent.
Documents	Any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, creeds, or codes of conduct given to you by the fraternity/sorority.	These documents can illustrate the structured nature of the hazing environment and any explicit prohibitions that were violated.
Financial Records	Records of medical bills, lost wages from missed work, tuition fees for semesters disrupted, or any loss of scholarship opportunities.	Compensable damages must be quantifiable. Keep receipts and employment records.
Academic Records	Any records reflecting the impact of the hazing on grades, enrollment status, or scholarship eligibility.	Hazing often has a detrimental effect on academic performance, leading to further demonstrable damages.

Crucial Actions to Avoid:

DO NOT delete ANY messages, social media posts, or files. This can be considered spoliation of evidence.
DO NOT discuss the incident with fraternity/sorority members or leadership, or university administration without legal counsel present. They are not on your side and will attempt to gather information to defend themselves.
DO NOT sign anything from the organization, university, or their insurance companies.
DO NOT post about the incident on social media. Anything you post can and will be used against you to undermine your credibility. (See Video: “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident”)
DO NOT give recorded statements to anyone unless directed by your attorney.

Timeline Considerations

Texas Statute of Limitations:

Personal Injury: 2 YEARS from date of injury
Wrongful Death: 2 YEARS from date of death

Burlington County families, while we are licensed in Texas and New York, New Jersey and most other states also have strict statutes of limitations, often two years, for personal injury claims. This means that there is a limited window of time to file a lawsuit after a hazing incident.

DO NOT WAIT:

Evidence disappears: Digital trails can be deleted, memories fade, and physical evidence can be destroyed.
Witnesses forget or are pressured into silence: The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to secure reliable testimony.
Organizations destroy records: Fraternities and universities may eliminate incriminating documents if they know hazing occurred but are not immediately challenged.
Your rights expire: Missing the statute of limitations means losing your legal right to seek compensation forever.

Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case acted immediately. He was hospitalized on November 6, and our lawsuit was filed within weeks. This immediate, aggressive response is how you protect your rights and ensure justice.

Who We Are: Burlington County’s Hazing Litigation Experts

Attorney911 is a Texas-based personal injury and criminal defense law firm with offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont. We are Legal Emergency Lawyers™ committed to providing immediate, aggressive help for legal emergencies, including those arising from hazing.

We proudly serve hazing victims and their families in Burlington County and nationwide. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar admissions (Texas and New York) allow us to take on national fraternities and universities, traveling wherever justice demands. Burlington County families facing the devastation of a hazing incident deserve the same fierce representation we provide to all our clients.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline For Burlington County Hazing Victims

If you or your child in Burlington County has been a victim of hazing, the time to act is now. You have legal rights, and we are ready to fight for you. Our attorneys are currently involved in a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston, demonstrating our active commitment and expertise in hazing litigation. We are prepared to bring that same level of aggressive, data-driven representation to your family.

🚨 Burlington County Families: Have You Or Your Child Been Hazed?

YOU HAVE LEGAL RIGHTS. WE FIGHT FOR YOU.

Call us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

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

We are available 24/7 for Burlington County hazing emergencies. You pay $0 upfront for our services. We work on a CONTINGENCY FEE basis – we don’t get paid unless YOU get paid. This ensures that expert legal representation is accessible to every family, regardless of their financial situation.

What Burlington County Hazing Victims Should Do Right Now:

GET MEDICAL ATTENTION: If you haven’t already, ensure your child receives a thorough medical evaluation. Document every injury, symptom, and medical visit. Medical records are vital evidence.
PRESERVE ALL EVIDENCE: Immediately secure all text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat conversations, Instagram direct messages, emails, photos, and videos related to the hazing. Do not delete anything. Collect names and contact information of other pledges or witnesses. (See Video: “Using Your Phone to Document Evidence” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs)
DO NOT TALK without counsel: Refrain from discussing the incident with fraternity/sorority members, university administration, or their lawyers without consulting your own legal counsel first. Anything you say can be used against you.
DO NOT POST to social media: Avoid posting any details about the incident or your well-being on social media. The defense will monitor your online activity. (See Video: “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident”)
CALL US IMMEDIATELY: The statute of limitations (often 2 years) means you have a limited time to file a lawsuit. Evidence disappears quickly. Delay can significantly harm your case. (See Video: “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c)
Burlington County Families: Distance is not a barrier. We offer convenient video consultations and are prepared to travel to Burlington County for depositions, meetings, and trials as needed to secure justice for your child.

We Serve Burlington County Hazing Victims – And Hazing Victims Nationwide

While our headquarters are in Texas, hazing is a pervasive national crisis. It happens at colleges and universities across the country, including those near Burlington County. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar admissions allow us to represent victims wherever the hazing occurred.

We are prepared to represent victims of hazing in Burlington County and beyond, regardless of the organization type:

Fraternities and sororities at universities throughout New Jersey.
Sports teams in collegiate or even high school settings.
Marching bands, ROTC programs, and other campus clubs and organizations.
Military academies or specialized training programs.
Any organization where abuse is enforced as a condition of “initiation” or membership.

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

We know there are more of you. Our client, Leonel Bermudez, was not the only one subjected to this brutal hazing. Another pledge lost consciousness during a workout on October 15. Others endured the same waterboarding, forced eating, extreme physical punishment, and psychological torment. You also have rights. We can represent you and ensure every perpetrator is held accountable.

As Lupe Peña so powerfully 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.”

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

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