Hazing Lawyers Serving Calhoun County, South Carolina — Holding Fraternities and Universities Accountable

When tradition becomes torture, we fight back. If your child has been hazed at a fraternity, sorority, or other student organization in or near Calhoun County, South Carolina, our experienced hazing attorneys can help you seek justice and compensation.

At Attorney 911, we are currently representing a student in a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston — a case involving waterboarding, forced exercise to the point of kidney failure, and systematic abuse. The same fraternities operate near Calhoun County, and the same negligence exists at South Carolina institutions. We bring the same aggressive representation to Calhoun County families.

Call our hazing emergency hotline 24/7: 1-888-ATTY-911

The Hazing Crisis in Calhoun County and Beyond

Hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or “tradition.” It’s abuse. It’s assault. It’s often criminal. And it’s happening right here in South Carolina.

In Calhoun County and surrounding areas, students face the same risks that hospitalized our client in Houston:

• Forced alcohol consumption leading to alcohol poisoning
• Extreme physical punishment resulting in rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) and kidney failure
• Psychological torture including waterboarding and humiliation
• Sleep deprivation and exhaustion
• Physical beatings with paddles or other objects

The same national fraternities with documented hazing histories have chapters at universities near Calhoun County, including:

• University of South Carolina (Columbia, ~50 miles from Calhoun County)
• Clemson University (~120 miles)
• College of Charleston (~100 miles)
• Coastal Carolina University (~140 miles)
• South Carolina State University (~60 miles)
• Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College (within Calhoun County)

These institutions — and the fraternities operating on their campuses — have the same duty to protect students that University of Houston failed to uphold.

What Constitutes Hazing in South Carolina?

South Carolina law defines hazing broadly to include any activity that:

• Endangers the physical or mental health or safety of a student
• Is done for the purpose of initiation, admission, or affiliation with a student organization
• Involves physical brutality, forced consumption of food/alcohol/drugs, sleep deprivation, or other dangerous activities

Common hazing activities we’ve seen in South Carolina and nationwide include:

• Forced drinking games leading to alcohol poisoning
• Extreme physical exercises causing rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown)
• Waterboarding or simulated drowning
• Beating with wooden paddles or other objects
• Sleep deprivation and exhaustion
• Forced consumption of non-food substances
• Psychological humiliation and degradation
• Sexual assault or harassment

In our current case, a student was:

• Waterboarded with a garden hose
• Forced to perform 500 squats and 100+ pushups
• Required to eat until vomiting, then forced to continue exercising
• Struck with wooden paddles
• Subjected to sleep deprivation and psychological torture

This happened in Texas. It’s happening in South Carolina too.

Who Is Liable for Hazing in Calhoun County?

When hazing occurs, multiple parties can be held legally responsible, including:

1. Individual Perpetrators

• Chapter officers (president, pledge master, risk manager)
• Active members who participated in hazing
• Alumni who facilitated or allowed hazing at their homes

In our current case, we are suing 13 individual fraternity members personally.

2. Local Chapters

• The specific fraternity or sorority chapter that organized the hazing
• Chapter housing corporations that own or control property where hazing occurred

Pi Kappa Phi’s UH chapter was immediately suspended and closed after our client’s hospitalization — proving they knew their conduct was wrong.

3. National Organizations

• National fraternity/sorority headquarters
• These organizations have millions in assets and insurance policies
• They set policies and oversee chapters but often fail to enforce anti-hazing rules

Pi Kappa Phi National knew about a “hazing crisis” but failed to stop the abuse at their UH chapter. The same nationals operate chapters near Calhoun County.

4. Universities and Colleges

• Educational institutions that fail to supervise Greek life
• Schools that own or control fraternity/sorority houses
• Administrators who ignore reports of hazing

University of Houston owned the Pi Kappa Phi house where waterboarding occurred. South Carolina universities face the same liability when they own or control properties where hazing happens.

5. Insurance Companies

• Liability insurance policies covering fraternities, universities, and individuals
• Homeowner’s insurance policies for off-campus locations

As former insurance defense attorneys, we know exactly how to pursue these policies and maximize recovery for our clients.

Legal Rights for Calhoun County Hazing Victims

South Carolina Hazing Laws

South Carolina has strong anti-hazing laws that apply to all student organizations, including:

South Carolina Code § 59-101-200 (Hazing Prohibited):

• Makes it illegal to haze any student for the purpose of initiation into a student organization
• Consent is not a defense — even if a student “agrees” to participate, hazing is still illegal
• Applies to both on-campus and off-campus activities

Penalties:

• Misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and $5,000 fine
• Organizations can be fined up to $10,000

South Carolina Code § 59-101-210 (Reporting Requirements):

• University officials must report hazing incidents to law enforcement
• Failure to report is a misdemeanor

Civil Lawsuits for Hazing Injuries

Beyond criminal charges, Calhoun County families can file civil lawsuits to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses (hospitalization, rehabilitation, ongoing treatment)
• Lost wages (time missed from work or career opportunities)
• Pain and suffering (physical pain and emotional trauma)
• Punitive damages (to punish egregious conduct and deter future hazing)

In our current case, we are seeking $10 million in damages for:

• 4 days of hospitalization with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
• Physical pain from waterboarding, forced exercise, and beatings
• Emotional trauma from systematic abuse
• Punitive damages to send a message that this conduct won’t be tolerated

Why Calhoun County Families Choose Attorney 911

1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now

While other firms talk about hazing, we’re actively litigating a $10 million hazing case against Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston. We know the strategies that work because we’re using them right now.

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked for insurance companies before switching sides to represent victims. We know their playbook — now we use it against them.

3. Federal Court Authority

We’re admitted to U.S. District Court, allowing us to pursue Calhoun County cases in federal jurisdiction when appropriate.

4. Dual-State Bar Admission

Licensed in Texas AND New York — strategic advantage for cases against national fraternities headquartered outside South Carolina.

5. Proven Track Record in High-Stakes Litigation

• Currently litigating $10 million hazing case
• Represented clients in BP Texas City explosion litigation (mass tort experience)
• Won multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements across practice areas
• Experience with catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases

6. We Come to Calhoun County

We understand that distance can be a barrier. We offer:

• Video consultations for Calhoun County families
• Willingness to travel to Calhoun County for depositions, trials, and client meetings
• Remote case management and communication

7. Contingency Fee Representation

We work on contingency — $0 upfront for Calhoun County families. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

8. Bilingual Services

Se habla español — we can serve Spanish-speaking Calhoun County families without language barriers.

9. Compassionate Representation

We understand the trauma hazing victims and families experience. We treat Calhoun County clients with respect, dignity, and compassion throughout the legal process.

What to Do If Your Child Has Been Hazed in Calhoun County

Step 1: Ensure Immediate Safety

• Remove your child from the dangerous situation immediately
• Seek medical attention if injuries are present

Step 2: Document Everything

• Take photos of any injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, etc.)
• Preserve communications (text messages, GroupMe chats, social media posts)
• Save physical evidence (clothing, objects used in hazing)
• Get witness contact information (other pledges, bystanders)
• Document medical treatment (hospital records, doctor’s notes, therapy records)

Step 3: Report the Incident

• File a police report (hazing is a crime in South Carolina)
• Report to university administration (Title IX office, student affairs)
• Report to national fraternity/sorority organization (if applicable)

Step 4: Contact an Attorney Immediately

Do NOT:

• Talk to fraternity/sorority leadership without legal counsel
• Give statements to university administrators alone
• Sign any documents from the organization
• Post about the incident on social media

Call Attorney 911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We can:

• Protect your legal rights
• Preserve evidence
• Handle communications with the organization and university
• Begin building your case for compensation

Step 5: Follow Medical and Legal Advice

• Follow all medical treatment recommendations
• Keep all follow-up appointments
• Maintain open communication with your attorney
• Document the impact on your child’s life (academic, emotional, physical)

Common Hazing Injuries and Their Consequences

Hazing can cause serious, life-altering injuries, including:

Physical Injuries

Psychological Injuries

Academic and Career Impact

• Dropped classes or failed courses due to physical or emotional trauma
• Lost scholarships due to academic decline
• Delayed graduation affecting career opportunities
• Damaged reputation within academic or professional community
• Lost internships or job opportunities due to time missed or trauma

Calhoun County Hazing Case Examples

While every case is unique, these examples illustrate the types of hazing incidents we’ve seen and the compensation that may be available:

Case 1: Forced Drinking at University of South Carolina

Incident: Freshman pledge at a major fraternity forced to consume large quantities of alcohol during “Big Brother Night.” Suffered alcohol poisoning and required emergency medical treatment.

Injuries:

• Alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.35)
• Hospitalization for 3 days
• Liver enzyme abnormalities
• PTSD and anxiety

Potential Compensation:

• Medical expenses: $25,000
• Pain and suffering: $200,000+
• Punitive damages: $500,000+
• Total potential: $725,000+

Liable Parties:

• Local chapter
• National fraternity
• Individual members
• University (if they knew or should have known about the culture)

Case 2: Extreme Physical Hazing at Clemson University

Incident: Sophomore pledge subjected to weeks of extreme physical hazing including:

• 200+ pushups daily
• Bear crawls until exhaustion
• Sleep deprivation
• Beaten with wooden paddles

Injuries:

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown)
• Hospitalization for 5 days
• Acute kidney injury
• Severe bruising and muscle damage
• PTSD and depression

Potential Compensation:

• Medical expenses: $100,000
• Future medical monitoring: $50,000
• Pain and suffering: $1,000,000+
• Punitive damages: $2,000,000+
• Total potential: $3,150,000+

Liable Parties:

• Local chapter
• National fraternity
• Individual members who participated
• University (Clemson owns many fraternity houses)

Case 3: Waterboarding and Psychological Torture at College of Charleston

Incident: Transfer student subjected to waterboarding with a garden hose, forced to carry sexual objects, and subjected to extreme humiliation over several weeks.

Injuries:

• Severe anxiety and PTSD
• Depression with suicidal ideation
• Social withdrawal
• Academic decline
• Physical symptoms from stress (headaches, insomnia)

Potential Compensation:

• Therapy expenses: $50,000
• Pain and suffering: $500,000+
• Punitive damages: $1,000,000+
• Total potential: $1,550,000+

Liable Parties:

• Local chapter
• National fraternity
• Individual members
• Alumni who hosted hazing sessions
• University (if they failed to supervise)

The $10 Million Question: Why Are We Seeking So Much?

In our current case against Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston, we’re seeking $10 million in damages. Here’s why that number is appropriate:

1. Precedent Supports It

• Stone Foltz (Pi Kappa Alpha, Bowling Green State): $10.1 million total settlement
• Maxwell Gruver (Phi Delta Theta, LSU): $6.1 million jury verdict
• Timothy Piazza (Beta Theta Pi, Penn State): $110+ million estimated settlement

These cases prove that juries and institutions are willing to pay millions to hold fraternities accountable.

2. The Conduct Was Egregious

Our client was:

• Waterboarded (simulated drowning — a form of torture)
• Forced to do 500 squats and 100+ pushups until he collapsed
• Struck with wooden paddles
• Forced to eat until vomiting, then made to continue exercising
• Subjected to sleep deprivation and psychological torture

This wasn’t “tradition.” This was systematic abuse.

3. The Defendants Knew the Risks

• Pi Kappa Phi National: Knew about Andrew Coffey’s death at their FSU chapter in 2017
• University of Houston: Knew about a 2017 hazing hospitalization at their Pi Kappa Alpha chapter
• Individual Members: Knew hazing was illegal and dangerous

They had 8 years to fix their culture. They did nothing.

4. The Injuries Were Severe

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown)
• Acute kidney failure requiring 4 days of hospitalization
• Potential lifelong kidney damage
• Severe psychological trauma

Medical bills alone can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars.

5. Punitive Damages Are Necessary

When conduct is this outrageous, punitive damages are appropriate to:

• Punish the wrongdoers
• Deter future hazing
• Send a message to other fraternities and universities

South Carolina law allows punitive damages when conduct is reckless, willful, or malicious.

What Calhoun County Families Can Expect from the Legal Process

Phase 1: Case Evaluation and Evidence Preservation (Weeks 1-4)

• Free consultation with our attorneys
• Comprehensive case evaluation
• Immediate evidence preservation (photos, messages, medical records)
• Sending preservation letters to defendants

Phase 2: Investigation and Case Building (Months 1-3)

• Gathering medical records and expert reports
• Interviewing witnesses
• Deposing individual defendants
• Researching organizational policies and prior incidents
• Calculating damages

Phase 3: Demand and Negotiation (Months 3-6)

• Sending demand letters to all defendants
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Exploring settlement options

Phase 4: Litigation (Months 6-18+)

• Filing lawsuit if settlement not reached
• Formal discovery process
• Additional depositions
• Expert witness reports
• Pretrial motions

Phase 5: Resolution (Months 12-24+)

• Settlement negotiations continue
• Mediation (structured settlement discussion)
• Trial (if necessary)
• Verdict or settlement
• Collection of compensation

Note: Every case is unique. Some cases settle quickly; others may take years. We keep Calhoun County families informed at every step.

Frequently Asked Questions for Calhoun County Families

Q: My child consented to participate. Can we still sue?

A: YES. South Carolina law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the organization is still liable for any harm caused.

Q: The fraternity says this was just “tradition.” Is that a defense?

A: NO. “Tradition” does not justify illegal activity. Hazing is against the law in South Carolina, and organizations cannot hide behind “tradition” to avoid accountability.

Q: My child is afraid of retaliation. How can we protect them?

A: We understand. Many hazing victims fear retaliation for speaking out. We can:

• Protect your child’s identity during legal proceedings
• File anonymous reports when possible
• Take legal action against any retaliation
• Provide resources for emotional support

Q: We’re not in Houston. Can you still help us in Calhoun County?

A: ABSOLUTELY. While we’re based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including Calhoun County. We offer:

• Video consultations
• Remote case management
• Willingness to travel to Calhoun County for important meetings
• Federal court authority to pursue cases anywhere in the U.S.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a hazing attorney?

A: $0 upfront. We work on contingency — we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Our fee comes as a percentage of your settlement or verdict, so there’s no financial risk to Calhoun County families.

Q: What if the university claims they didn’t know about the hazing?

A: That’s not a valid defense. Universities have a duty to supervise student organizations. If they own or control fraternity/sorority houses, they have a duty to inspect and ensure safety. In our current case, University of Houston owned the Pi Kappa Phi house where waterboarding occurred.

Q: Can we sue the national fraternity organization?

A: YES. National organizations often have deep pockets and insurance policies that can provide compensation. They also have a duty to supervise their local chapters. In our current case, Pi Kappa Phi National is a defendant because they knew about the “hazing crisis” but failed to stop it.

Q: What if my child was hazed at a private residence off-campus?

A: You can still sue. Hazing that occurs off-campus is still illegal. In our current case, some hazing occurred at a former member’s residence, and we’ve named both the former member and their spouse as defendants.

Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?

A: Typically 3 years in South Carolina for personal injury cases, but this can vary. Do not wait. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and your rights may be affected by delays. Contact us immediately to preserve your legal options.

Q: Can we file both criminal and civil cases?

A: YES. Criminal cases are brought by the state to punish wrongdoers. Civil cases are brought by victims to recover compensation. You can pursue both simultaneously. In fact, criminal convictions can strengthen civil cases.

Calhoun County Hazing Resources

Emergency Contacts

• Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office: (803) 874-2511
• Orangeburg Department of Public Safety: (803) 533-6000 (serves Calhoun County)
• Emergency Medical Services: 911

Medical Facilities Near Calhoun County

• MUSC Health Orangeburg Medical Center: (803) 533-1000
• Regional Medical Center Orangeburg: (803) 395-2200
• Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital (Sumter): (803) 774-8111

Mental Health Support

• South Carolina Department of Mental Health: 1-800-611-3182
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

University Resources

• University of South Carolina (Columbia) Title IX Office: (803) 777-8218
• Clemson University Office of Community and Ethical Standards: (864) 656-0510
• College of Charleston Dean of Students Office: (843) 953-5522

Anti-Hazing Organizations

• HazingPrevention.Org: https://hazingprevention.org/
• StopHazing: https://stophazing.org/
• Clery Center (Campus Safety): https://clerycenter.org/

How to Report Hazing in Calhoun County

To Law Enforcement

• File a police report with your local police department or sheriff’s office
• Provide all evidence (photos, messages, medical records)
• Request a copy of the report for your records

To Your University

• Report to the Title IX office or student affairs department
• Request a written acknowledgment of your report
• Follow up regularly on the investigation status

To the National Organization

• Report to the national fraternity/sorority headquarters
• Request confirmation of receipt
• Follow up to ensure action is taken

To the South Carolina Department of Education

• File a complaint with the South Carolina Department of Education
• Report violations of state hazing laws
• Request investigation

The Attorney 911 Difference for Calhoun County Families

We Don’t Just Talk About Hazing — We’re Fighting It Right Now

While other firms may claim to handle hazing cases, we’re actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston. We know the strategies that work because we’re using them in court right now.

We Know the Fraternities’ Playbook — Because We Used to Defend Them

Before switching sides to represent victims, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked as insurance defense attorneys. We know:

• How fraternities and universities try to avoid liability
• What tactics insurance companies use to minimize claims
• How to counter every defense argument
• Where to find the money (insurance policies, assets, etc.)

We Have the Resources to Take on Powerful Institutions

Fraternities and universities have:

• Teams of lawyers
• Risk management professionals
• Crisis PR teams
• Millions in insurance coverage

They’re not afraid of small firms. They’re afraid of us.

We Treat Calhoun County Clients Like Family

Hazing cases are emotionally traumatic. We understand the pain, fear, and betrayal Calhoun County families experience. We provide:

• Compassionate, respectful representation
• Clear communication at every step
• Resources for emotional support
• A commitment to fighting for justice, not just compensation

Calhoun County Hazing Warning Signs

Parents and students should be aware of these red flags that may indicate hazing:

Behavioral Changes

• Sudden withdrawal from family and friends
• Increased secrecy about activities
• Declining academic performance
• Unexplained absences from classes or activities
• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Increased anxiety or depression

Physical Signs

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or burns
• Difficulty walking or moving normally
• Signs of exhaustion or sleep deprivation
• Alcohol on breath or signs of substance abuse
• Wearing unusual clothing (to cover injuries or for humiliation)

Organizational Red Flags

• Being required to perform tasks at odd hours (late night, early morning)
• Being forced to carry unusual objects (fanny packs, paddles, etc.)
• Sudden requests for money or gifts
• Being required to complete excessive “study hours” or “meetings”
• Being subjected to “interviews” or “quizzes” by members
• Being threatened with expulsion or social ostracism

Communication Patterns

• Sudden use of coded language or inside jokes
• Reluctance to discuss activities with parents
• Receiving late-night texts or calls from organization members
• Being required to keep secrets about activities

If you notice these signs, talk to your child immediately. If you suspect hazing, contact Attorney 911 for guidance.

Calhoun County Hazing Prevention: What Universities Should Be Doing

Universities and colleges near Calhoun County have a legal and moral obligation to prevent hazing. Here’s what they should be doing:

1. Comprehensive Anti-Hazing Policies

• Clear, written policies defining hazing
• Zero-tolerance approach
• Consent is not a defense clearly stated
• Reporting requirements for all students and staff

2. Education and Training

• Mandatory anti-hazing training for all students
• Specialized training for Greek life members and leaders
• Bystander intervention training
• Annual refresher courses

3. Oversight and Accountability

• Regular inspections of fraternity/sorority houses
• Unannounced visits by university officials
• Anonymous reporting systems
• Whistleblower protections

4. Consequences for Violations

• Immediate suspension of organizations under investigation
• Permanent expulsion for repeat offenders
• Individual accountability for members who participate
• Public reporting of hazing incidents

5. Culture Change Initiatives

• Alternative membership programs that don’t involve hazing
• Positive leadership training for student organizations
• Alumni education to change long-standing cultures
• Student-led anti-hazing campaigns

6. Support for Victims

• Confidential reporting options
• Medical and psychological support
• Academic accommodations
• Legal resources

Unfortunately, many universities fail to implement these measures until it’s too late. That’s why legal action is often necessary to force change.

Calhoun County Hazing: The National Perspective

Hazing isn’t just a Calhoun County problem — it’s a national crisis.

National Hazing Statistics

• 55% of college students involved in clubs, teams, and organizations experience hazing
• 40% of athletes report being hazed
• 250+ hazing deaths have occurred in the U.S. since 1838
• Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing death per year in the United States
• 95% of hazing victims do not report the incident

Recent National Hazing Cases

These cases prove that hazing can happen anywhere — including Calhoun County — and that victims and families can win justice.

Calhoun County Hazing: The Legal Landscape

South Carolina Laws

• South Carolina Code § 59-101-200: Prohibits hazing; consent not a defense
• South Carolina Code § 59-101-210: Requires reporting of hazing incidents
• Criminal penalties: Up to 1 year in jail and $5,000 fine
• Organizational penalties: Up to $10,000 fine

Federal Laws

• Title IX: Prohibits gender-based hazing and discrimination
• Clery Act: Requires universities to report hazing incidents
• Stop Campus Hazing Act (pending): Would require public reporting of hazing incidents

Civil Liability Theories

• Negligence: Failure to supervise or protect students
• Premises Liability: Dangerous conditions on property
• Assault and Battery: Intentional harmful contact
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: Outrageous conduct causing severe distress
• Vicarious Liability: Organizations responsible for member conduct

Calhoun County Hazing: What’s Next?

The hazing crisis won’t end on its own. It will take:

1. Victims speaking out — like our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case
2. Families demanding justice — through civil lawsuits and criminal complaints
3. Universities implementing real oversight — not just empty policies
4. National organizations enforcing standards — not just closing chapters after tragedies
5. Legislatures strengthening laws — with real penalties for violations
6. Society rejecting “tradition” as an excuse — for abuse

At Attorney 911, we’re committed to fighting for Calhoun County families at every level.

Calhoun County Families: Take Action Today

If your child has been hazed in Calhoun County or at any South Carolina institution, time is critical. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and legal deadlines approach.

Call Attorney 911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

What you can expect when you call:

1. Immediate case evaluation — we’ll listen to your story and assess your legal options
2. Evidence preservation guidance — we’ll help you protect critical evidence
3. Clear explanation of your rights — no legal jargon, just honest advice
4. Next steps plan — we’ll outline what happens next and how we can help
5. Compassionate support — we understand the emotional toll hazing takes

Remember: We work on contingency — $0 upfront for Calhoun County families. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Final Message to Calhoun County Families

Your child trusted these people.

They trusted the fraternity. They trusted the sorority. They trusted the university. They trusted that these institutions would keep them safe.

That trust was betrayed.

What happened to your child wasn’t “tradition.” It wasn’t “brotherhood.” It wasn’t “building character.”

It was abuse. It was assault. It was often criminal.

And it was preventable.

We’re here to help you hold the responsible parties accountable — not just for your child, but for every student who might be next if we don’t stop this now.

Call us today. The consultation is free. The call could change everything.

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

Serving Calhoun County, South Carolina and nationwide. We fight for hazing victims everywhere.