The chilling silence of a 2 A.M. home in Calhoun County, Georgia, can be shattered by a single phone call. If you’re reading this, your child, who left your protective embrace for college, may have been subjected to unimaginable cruelty, disguised as “tradition.” The nightmare you believed only existed in news headlines has become your family’s terrifying reality. Your son or daughter was supposed to make friends, learn, and grow. Instead, they were tortured, abused, and potentially suffered life-altering injuries. We understand what you’re going through, and we are here to help families in Calhoun County fight back against the pervasive and dangerous culture of hazing.

Our firm, Attorney911, is a beacon of hope for families like yours across America, and we are ready to bring our aggressive, empathetic, and uniquely data-driven approach to every corner of Georgia, including Calhoun County. We are not just lawyers; we are advocates, strategists, and relentless warriors for justice, transforming the devastation of hazing into a powerful force for accountability and change. We are currently leading the charge in one of the most significant hazing lawsuits in the country, the $10 million Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, filed in November 2025. This case, and others like it, represents everything we stand for: aggressive representation of hazing victims, a data-driven litigation strategy, and unwavering accountability for every entity responsible for hazing injuries. What happened in Houston is happening now in Calhoun County. We’re here to stop it.

The Landmark Case: Attorney911 Fights Back Against Hazing at the University of Houston

Calhoun County, Georgia, Families: This Case is a Warning and a Promise

The story of Leonel Bermudez is not an isolated incident; it’s a stark warning to parents in Calhoun County and across Georgia that the insidious culture of hazing respects no geographical boundaries. What happened just weeks ago in Houston could easily happen at universities where students from Calhoun County attend. The same national fraternities and sororities with chapters near you engage in the same dangerous “traditions.” The same failures in oversight and negligence exist at institutions throughout Georgia. We are bringing our fight to federal courts and state courts across the nation, and we will bring the same aggressive representation and relentless pursuit of justice to any family in Calhoun County whose child has been harmed by hazing.

On November 21, 2025, Attorney911 filed a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, the University of Houston, its Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity members. This is not just a legal battle; it’s a declaration that we will not tolerate the torture of young people under the guise of “brotherhood.”

The Story of Leonel Bermudez: Your Child’s Nightmare Made Real

Leonel Bermudez was a “ghost rush,” a prospective member who had not even officially enrolled at the University of Houston yet, though he planned to transfer for the Spring 2026 semester. He was a young man with aspirations, hoping to find camaraderie and community in college. Instead, during a seven-week pledge period starting September 16, 2025, he endured systematic abuse and psychological torture that led to his hospitalization.

Think about that, Calhoun County families. They did this to someone who wasn’t even their student.

On November 3, 2025, Leonel was brutally punished for missing an event. He was forced into extreme physical exertion that included:

• Over 100 pushups and 500 squats.
• High-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and “save-your-brother” drills.
• Two-mile warmups followed by repeated 100-yard crawls.
• All while being forced to recite the fraternity creed under threat of immediate expulsion.

This relentless physical torment, as confirmed by news reports, pushed Leonel’s body to its breaking point. He became so exhausted he couldn’t stand without help. Attorney Ralph Manginello recounted to ABC13, “When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure.”

Leonel was admitted to the hospital on November 6, 2025, suffering from severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He spent three nights and four days hospitalized, passing brown urine — a classic symptom of muscle breakdown. The psychological toll was just as severe; he remains “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution,” a testament to the culture of fear instilled by his abusers.

The Horrific Hazing Activities Exposed: This is Not Pranks

Our lawsuit details a litany of barbaric acts that go far beyond typical “initiation rituals”:

• Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: Leonel and other pledges were “waterboarded with a garden hose” (KHOU 11). This is a technique condemned globally as torture. They were sprayed in the face with a hose while doing calisthenics, forced to run repeatedly under the threat of being waterboarded. This is torture. When done to enemy combatants, it’s considered a war crime. They did this to a college student.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Pledges were made to consume “large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting” (ABC13). After vomiting, they were forced to continue running sprints in their own vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: Beyond the pushups and squats, pledges were struck with “wooden paddles” (Houston Chronicle), forced to strip to their underwear in cold weather, and sprayed with water while minimally clothed.
• Psychological Torture and Humiliation: Leonel was made to carry a fanny pack containing “objects of a sexual nature” at all times. In one horrific incident on October 13, another pledge was “hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour” as fraternity members prepared for a meeting. Threats of physical punishment and expulsion enforced compliance.
• Sleep Deprivation: Pledges were forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, leading to dangerous exhaustion.

This isn’t bonding, Calhoun County. This is systematic dehumanization and abuse.

Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

Rhabdomyolysis, the medical condition Leonel suffered, is the breakdown of muscle tissue that releases a damaging protein called myoglobin into the blood. It is a serious and potentially fatal condition that can cause acute kidney failure. Leonel’s passing of brown urine, his inability to walk, and “very high creatine kinase levels” confirm the severity of the muscle damage. He still faces the risk of permanent kidney damage, requiring ongoing medical monitoring and potentially further intensive treatment. Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases, making our firm uniquely equipped to handle the complex medical aspects of this case.

Institutional Response: Collusion and Calculated Indifference

What followed the hazing was a swift but calculated response from the defendants. The University of Houston spokesperson stated to Houston Public Media that “The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards,” and mentioned “potential criminal charges.” This is an admission of serious wrongdoing and UH’s belief that criminal acts occurred.

Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, in its own November 21, 2025, website statement, announced it “closed its Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This means they closed the chapter seven days before our lawsuit was filed. They knew what was coming. It was a clear attempt to distance themselves, demonstrating “consciousness of guilt.” Their statement then brazenly declared, “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time,” exposing a shocking lack of remorse. They’re not sorry; they’re already planning their comeback while our client recovers.

Why This Case Matters to Calhoun County, Georgia, Families

1. “Tradition” is Torture: This case shatters the illusion of harmless college antics. It demonstrates that hazing is assault, battery, and torture. The same perverse “traditions” are likely occurring at fraternities and sororities active at universities near Calhoun County.
2. Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where much of this torture occurred. Universities near Calhoun County have the same power and moral obligation to stop hazing—and the same liability when they fail to do so.
3. National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi National immediately suspended and dissolved the chapter, admitting “violations.” This proves they knew the conduct was wrong. These same national organizations operate chapters throughout Georgia, including areas frequented by Calhoun County students.
4. One Victim Can Save Lives: As Attorney Lupe Pena eloquently stated, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Your child’s fight for justice in Calhoun County can send a powerful message and protect future generations.
5. A $10 Million Message: This lawsuit sends an unequivocal message that there is a severe price for torturing our kids. Families in Calhoun County have the same right to demand accountability and the same ability to impact change.

News outlets like Click2Houston, ABC13, and Hoodline extensively covered this groundbreaking lawsuit, putting a national spotlight on the ongoing crisis of hazing. You can read their reports here:

• Click2Houston (KPRC 2) – November 21, 2025
• ABC13 (KTRK) – November 21-22, 2025
• Hoodline – November 22, 2025

The Pi Kappa Phi national organization itself issued a statement on November 21, 2025, confirming the chapter’s closure on November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

For too long, hazing has been dismissed as harmless fun, “boys being boys,” or a necessary “rite of passage.” This is a dangerous misconception that enables torture and abuse. The reality, as tragically demonstrated by Leonel Bermudez’s case and countless others, is far grimmer. Hazing is a calculated act of power, designed to humiliate, degrade, and control individuals, often leading to severe physical injury, psychological trauma, and even death. It is deeply disturbing that these practices persist in organizations dedicated to education and leadership development.

In Calhoun County, Georgia, your children attend college with expectations of growth and safety. But the hazing epidemic is not confined to any one region or type of institution. It occurs in fraternities, sororities, sports teams, clubs, marching bands, ROTC programs, and other student organizations across America. Students from Calhoun County, attending universities throughout Georgia or elsewhere, face these very real dangers.

Hazing is NOT:

• “Pranks”: Pranks are benign. Waterboarding is torture.
• “Building character”: Character is built through respect, not degradation.
• “Brotherhood/Sisterhood”: True bonds are forged through shared values and mutual support, not abuse.
• “Team building”: Teams are built on trust, not fear.

Hazing IS:

• Assault and Battery: Striking, beating, forced exercise, and forced consumption are criminal acts.
• Psychological Torture: Humiliation, threats, and sleep deprivation inflict lasting emotional scars.
• Reckless Endangerment: Forcing alcohol, food to the point of vomiting, or extreme physical strain knowingly places lives at risk.
• Wrongful Death or Injury: The tragic outcome when institutions fail to intervene.

Common Hazing Tactics and Their Devastating Impact:

• Physical Abuse: This includes acts like beatings, paddling, branding, forced calisthenics (as seen in Leonel’s case with his 500 squats), sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, and confinement in small spaces. These activities often lead to severe injuries such as rhabdomyolysis, broken bones, heatstroke, hypothermia, and traumatic brain injuries.
• Forced Consumption: This is tragically common and often fatal. Pledges are forced to consume excessive amounts of alcohol, food (sometimes non-edible substances), or other liquids until they vomit or pass out. This can result in alcohol poisoning, choking, aspiration, and severe internal injuries. Leonel was forced to eat until he vomited and then run in his own vomit, a barbaric act designed to humiliate.
• Psychological Degradation: This involves systematic humiliation, verbal abuse, threats, forced servitude, and social isolation. The “fanny pack with sexual objects” and “hog-tying” incident in the Bermudez case are prime examples. These tactics can lead to severe mental anguish, anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and even suicidal ideation.
• Waterboarding: As explicitly detailed in the Bermudez case, simulating drowning with a garden hose is an extreme form of psychological and physical torture that can cause immense fear, physiological distress, and long-term trauma.
• Sexual Abuse: Forced nudity, sexual acts, or carrying sexually suggestive objects are abhorrent forms of hazing that can leave victims permanently scarred.

The psychological wounds from hazing can be even deeper and more enduring than physical injuries. Victims often struggle with PTSD, anxiety, depression, difficulty forming healthy relationships, and substance abuse. Many suffer in silence, fearing retaliation or shame. These hidden emotional scars are just as valid and compensable as broken bones or kidney failure.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Everyone Accountable

When hazing leaves a student injured or dead, the responsibility extends far beyond the immediate perpetrators. Our aggressive, data-driven strategy ensures that every entity that participated in, condoned, or negligently allowed the hazing to occur is held accountable. This approach is exemplified in the Bermudez case, where we’ve cast a wide net of accountability.

In Calhoun County, Georgia, just as in Houston, we pursue all liable parties. This often includes individual students, local chapters, the powerful national organizations, and even the educational institutions themselves.

The Defendants We Target:

1. Individual Perpetrators: The students who directly engage in hazing acts, those who organize them, and those who stand by and do nothing. In Leonel’s case, we named 13 individuals, including the fraternity president, pledgemaster, and other members. It’s crucial for parents in Calhoun County to understand that even the “nice kid” who forces a pledge to drink could face severe personal liability.
2. Local Chapter: The student organization itself is responsible for the conduct of its members and for creating an environment where hazing thrives. The Beta Nu chapter of Pi Kappa Phi directly organized and conducted the hazing of Leonel.
3. National Fraternity or Sorority Organization: These powerful entities oversee hundreds of chapters across the country, including those near Calhoun County. They collect dues, provide guidance, and are supposed to enforce anti-hazing policies. When they fail to adequately supervise their local chapters, fail to enforce rules despite clear warning signs, or have a documented history of hazing deaths and injuries, they are directly liable. Pi Kappa Phi National’s own public statements demonstrate they knew of violations and failed to act.
4. The University or College: Educational institutions have a moral and legal duty to protect their students from harm. When they recognize Greek organizations, provide them with housing, or tolerate a known culture of hazing, they can be held responsible for institutional negligence. In the Bermudez case, the University of Houston is a defendant because it owned the fraternity house where hazing occurred, had the power to regulate its Greek life activities, and had prior knowledge of hazing incidents on its campus. Universities near Calhoun County have similar responsibilities and face the same liabilities.
5. Housing Corporations: Many fraternities and sororities operate through separate housing corporations that own or manage the chapter properties. These entities also bear responsibility if hazing occurs on their premises. This is why the Beta Nu Housing Corporation is a defendant in the Bermudez case.
6. Alumni Boards/Advisors: Often, alumni provide oversight, financial support, and even guidance to local chapters. If they knew about hazing or contributed to a culture that allowed it, they can also be held liable. In the Bermudez lawsuit, former members and even their spouses are named defendants because hazing activities occurred at their private residence.
7. Insurance Carriers: These are often the “deep pockets” that ultimately pay out multi-million dollar settlements. We pursue every applicable insurance policy, including general liability, institutional policies, and even homeowners’ insurance. Our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are former insurance defense attorneys and know exactly how to leverage this intricate system to maximize recovery for our clients.

When your child is harmed by hazing in Calhoun County, don’t let anyone tell you it’s “just kids” or that no one is accountable. We find every responsible entity, from the individual students to the national organizations and universities, and we hold them all to account.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof

For families reeling from the shock and trauma of hazing, the thought of a legal battle against powerful institutions can be daunting. But the truth is, hazing cases win, and they win big. The high-profile multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements nationwide are not just abstract numbers; they represent comprehensive justice for victims and powerful deterrents against future abuse. In Calhoun County, Georgia, if your family has suffered from hazing, you deserve the same justice.

Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is not a shot in the dark; it is grounded in a proven track record of significant awards in hazing litigation across the country. These precedents demonstrate that juries and institutions are increasingly willing to impose severe financial penalties to force accountability and change.

Landmark Verdicts & Settlements That Send a Message:

• Stone Foltz — Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021) — Over $10.1 Million Result: Stone Foltz was tragically killed from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation. The legal actions resulted in massive accountability:
  • Bowling Green State University paid $2.9 million.
  • Pi Kappa Alpha National and individuals paid $7.2 million.
  • In December 2024, a jury ordered former chapter president Daylen Dunson to pay $6.5 million personally. This case proves that both universities and national fraternities pay, and individual perpetrators face severe personal liability. Our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez is directly aligned with this precedent.
• Maxwell Gruver — Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017) — $6.1 Million Verdict: Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, died from acute alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.495) after being forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta hazing ritual known as “Bible Study.”
  • A jury awarded his family $6.1 million.
  • The criminal outcome included prison time for one fraternity member convicted of negligent homicide.
  • This case also led to the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana. This verdict proves that juries are willing to punish fraternities and individuals severely for their actions, and it inspired legislative change.
• Timothy Piazza — Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017) — Over $110 Million (Estimated): Timothy Piazza died from a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding after being forced to drink 18 alcoholic beverages in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi hazing event. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911, capturing their inhumane actions on security cameras.
  • The civil settlements, though confidential, are estimated to exceed $110 million.
  • 18 fraternity members faced criminal charges, with several convicted of hazing and involuntary manslaughter.
  • This case spurred the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania, introducing harsher penalties for hazing. This case demonstrates that strong evidence of egregious conduct can lead to astronomical settlements and widespread institutional reform.
• Andrew Coffey — Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017) — Confidential Settlement: Andrew Coffey, a Pi Kappa Phi pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon.
  • Nine fraternity members were charged, and the chapter was permanently closed.
  • This is the SAME national fraternity involved in the Leonel Bermudez case. This critical history provides powerful pattern evidence, demonstrating that Pi Kappa Phi National knew eight years ago that their hazing practices were deadly, yet failed to implement effective changes, leading directly to Leonel’s hospitalization.
• Adam Oakes — Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021) — Over $4 Million Settlement: Adam Oakes died from alcohol poisoning after a Delta Chi hazing event at VCU. His family initially sought $28 million and ultimately secured a settlement of over $4 million, with a substantial portion dedicated to the “Love Like Adam” Foundation. This case led to “Adam’s Law” in Virginia and confirms the continued willingness of institutions to pay millions for hazing deaths.

The Message to Calhoun County, Georgia, Institutions and Greek Organizations:

Hazing costs millions. We have tracked over $136 million in hazing-related settlements and verdicts in America. These cases establish clear patterns of liability and demonstrate that justice is achievable. The same legal strategies, evidence-gathering techniques, and aggressive litigation we employ in Houston and across the nation are available to families in Calhoun County. Every university, every national organization, and every local chapter operating near Calhoun County should consider these cases a solemn warning: if you allow hazing, you will pay.

Texas Law Protects You, and Federal Law Extends Everywhere

For families in Calhoun County, Georgia, understanding the legal framework is crucial. While our firm is based in Texas, the principles of liability for hazing are universal, and federal law ensures our ability to pursue justice nationwide. Many states, including Georgia, have anti-hazing statutes similar to Texas’s laws, and civil negligence claims apply everywhere.

What this means for you in Calhoun County: The detailed Texas laws outlined below provide a strong template for legal action that can be adapted to Georgia’s statutes. Furthermore, our firm’s admission to federal courts allows us to bring hazing lawsuits in federal jurisdiction, which can be particularly advantageous when suing national fraternities or universities that receive federal funding.

Texas Anti-Hazing Laws (Education Code § 37.151-37.157): A Model for Accountability

The Texas Education Code provides a robust legal framework that defines hazing and establishes both criminal penalties and organizational liability.

• Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Texas law broadly defines hazing as “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into… if the act endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student.” This includes physical brutality, sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, excessive calisthenics, forced consumption of food or alcohol, and activities that violate the Penal Code.

  Calhoun County Relevance: The hazing Leonel Bermudez endured—waterboarding, forced eating, extreme calisthenics—falls squarely within several categories of this definition. It’s highly probable your child’s hazing experience in Calhoun County, Georgia, will meet similar definitions under Georgia’s anti-hazing statutes (specifically, Georgia Code § 16-5-61).

• Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Individuals who engage in or fail to report hazing can face criminal charges ranging from Class B misdemeanors (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine) to State Jail Felonies (180 days to 2 years in state jail, $10,000 fine) if hazing results in death. When hazing causes “serious bodily injury,” like Leonel’s kidney failure, it’s a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
  Calhoun County Relevance: Calhoun County authorities and prosecutors in Georgia can pursue similar criminal charges against individuals involved in hazing, holding them personally accountable for their actions.

• Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Under Texas law, an organization commits an offense if it “condones or encourages hazing.” Penalties include fines up to $10,000 and denial of the right to operate on campus.
  Calhoun County Relevance: This allows for holding local chapters and national organizations liable, not just individuals. Georgia’s laws also target organizational responsibility.

• Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is perhaps the most crucial aspect of Texas hazing law for many victims. The statute explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution… that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”
  Calhoun County Relevance: Hazing perpetrators frequently attempt to minimize their actions by claiming the victim “consented” or “knew what they were signing up for.” Texas law, and increasingly, laws in states like Georgia, unequivocally reject this argument. No one can truly consent to being tortured, abused, or having their life endangered.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Prosecution, Seeking Justice in Calhoun County

While criminal charges punish wrongdoers, civil lawsuits are how hazing victims and their families recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain, and suffering. Our firm leverages multiple civil liability theories in Calhoun County:

• Negligence (Universal in Calhoun County): We prove that the university, national organization, or individuals had a duty to protect your child, breached that duty through their actions or inactions, and that this breach directly caused the injuries. This is a foundational claim in all personal injury cases.
• Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university or fraternity housing corporation, that entity can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment. This is central to our claim against the University of Houston, which owned the house where Leonel was waterboarded. This applies equally to Calhoun County educational institutions.
• Negligent Supervision: This theory holds national organizations and universities accountable for failing to properly supervise their local chapters or Greek life systems. Given the documented history of hazing, both nationally and at the University of Houston, this is a powerful claim.
• Assault and Battery: Individual hazers directly responsible for physical contact (like paddling or striking) or forced consumption can be sued for intentional torts, allowing for personal accountability.
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): The outrageous and extreme nature of hazing acts, such as waterboarding or forced humiliation, can form the basis for an IIED claim, recognizing the severe psychological harm inflicted.

Federal Court Authority: Extending Our Reach to Calhoun County

Our legal team is admitted to federal courts, including the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This allows us to pursue hazing cases in federal jurisdiction, an advantage when dealing with national fraternities or universities that receive federal funding. It means that even if a hazing incident happens in Calhoun County, Georgia, we have the authority to litigate your case in the most effective venue, without being confined by state lines. Our dual-state bar admissions (Texas and New York) further provide a strategic advantage when taking on national organizations that may be headquartered or incorporated in different states.

In Calhoun County, Georgia, you deserve justice, and the law provides powerful tools to achieve it. We will navigate these complex legal waters for you, ensuring that the full force of the law is brought to bear against those who harmed your child.

Why Attorney911 Is Calhoun County’s Choice for Hazing Cases

When your child is harmed by hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the nuances of this complex legal landscape and isn’t afraid to take on powerful institutions. Attorney911 is that firm, and we are ready to serve families in Calhoun County, Georgia, with the same aggressive, compassionate, and data-driven approach that defines every case we handle. We understand the unique challenges facing families in Calhoun County, and we are dedicated to bringing our top-tier legal expertise directly to you, regardless of distance.

The Attorney911 Difference for Calhoun County Families:

1. Currently Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit: We aren’t just talking about hazing; we’re actively fighting it right now in a high-stakes case against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical – it’s real, live litigation that proves our aggressive approach and deep expertise. Calhoun County families get the benefit of this cutting-edge experience.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook: Both of our lead attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, began their careers working for major insurance companies and national defense firms. Ralph P. Manginello honed his skills understanding how insurance companies strategize to deny claims, having worked on the defense side before dedicating his practice to victims. Lupe E. Peña, a third-generation Texan fluent in Spanish, spent years at the national defense firm Litchfield Cavo LLP, defending insurance companies in high-stakes cases. This insider knowledge is an unfair advantage for our clients. We know how the other side thinks, how they value claims, and precisely how to dismantle their defenses to maximize your compensation. This is invaluable when confronting national fraternities and universities in Calhoun County who routinely deploy their own defense teams.
3. 25+ Years of Battle-Tested Courtroom Experience: Ralph Manginello brings over two and a half decades of litigation experience, having handled everything from complex multi-billion dollar mass torts (like the BP Texas City Explosion litigation) to high-profile criminal cases. This breadth of experience means we are prepared for any fight, any defendant, and any courtroom challenge, whether it’s in Houston, or a courtroom in Calhoun County.
4. Federal Court Admissions & Dual-State Bar Licenses: We are admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and Ralph is a member of both the Texas and New York State Bars. This dual-state capability offers a strategic advantage when litigating against national fraternities and sororities that are often headquartered or incorporated outside of Texas but have chapters in Calhoun County. It means we have the reach and authority to pursue justice wherever it takes us.
5. Data-Driven Hazing Intelligence: We maintain one of the most comprehensive private databases of Greek organizations in Texas, including IRS-registered entities, EINs, and historical incident data. This intelligence allows us to identify every responsible party—from the national headquarters to local housing corporations—and craft precise legal strategies. We don’t guess who to sue; we know. This same systematic approach is applied to identify and target defendants relevant to hazing incidents affecting Calhoun County students.
6. Unwavering Dedication to Hazing Victims: We are emotionally invested in these cases. We’ve seen firsthand the devastation hazing causes, and we are committed to using our skills to create real change. When Lupe Peña spoke to ABC13 about the Bermudez case, he emphasized, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” This is our passion, and it drives our relentless pursuit of justice for every Calhoun County family.
7. Empathetic and Bilingual Support (Se Habla Español): We understand that navigating a legal crisis is overwhelming, especially for families dealing with trauma or language barriers. Our staff is warm, professional, and genuinely cares about our clients. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, ensuring that Hispanic families in Calhoun County receive comprehensive and culturally sensitive legal support without language ever being a barrier to justice.
8. Contingency Fee Basis – No Upfront Costs for Calhoun County Families: We understand that the financial burdens of medical care and lost time can be immense. That’s why we take hazing cases on contingency. You pay absolutely nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This levels the playing field, allowing any family in Calhoun County, regardless of their financial situation, to challenge powerful fraternities, universities, and their insurance companies. We come to you; distance is not a barrier to justice. We offer video consultations for Calhoun County residents and our attorneys travel for depositions, trials, and client meetings as needed.
9. Proven Results Against Major Corporations: Ralph Manginello’s experience in the BP Texas City Explosion litigation, a multi-billion dollar mass tort against a petrochemical giant, demonstrates our capacity to tackle the most complex, high-stakes cases against massive corporate defendants. The organizational structure and legal strategies required in such mass torts directly apply to the multi-defendant challenges posed by hazing litigation involving national fraternities and universities.

Calhoun County deserves justice. Your child deserves justice. Choose Attorney911, the firm that isn’t just prepared to fight; we’re already in the fight, winning.

Client Testimonials: Trust Built on Real Results

Our 4.9-star Google rating from over 250 reviews speaks volumes. Clients consistently praise our commitment, communication, and ability to secure meaningful results. Phrases like “They treat you like family,” “Amazing communication,” and “He is a true Pitt bull and fighter” underscore the personalized and aggressive representation we provide. We believe that every client, whether in Houston or Calhoun County, should receive such dedicated service.

Meet the Lawyers Fighting for Calhoun County Hazing Victims:

Ralph P. Manginello — Managing Partner

Beyond his extensive legal credentials, Ralph brings a unique background to hazing litigation. As a Hall of Fame athlete and youth sports coach, he understands the dynamics of team environments and the pressures young people face, making him acutely aware of how hazing cultures develop and escalate. His journalism background also means he is trained to investigate, uncover hidden facts, and tell compelling stories – essential skills for exposing what institutions want to hide in hazing cases. As a father of three, he knows firsthand what is at stake when a child is harmed.

Lupe Eleno Peña — Associate Attorney (Male)

Lupe’s insider perspective from working at a national insurance defense firm is a formidable asset. He knows precisely how insurance companies value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize payouts. He now uses that knowledge exclusively to benefit hazing victims, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in dismantling the opposition’s arguments. His deep Texas roots and fluency in Spanish also make him an invaluable advocate for Calhoun County’s diverse population.

Together, Ralph and Lupe form a powerhouse legal team, combining over 37 years of legal experience, federal court authority, and a profound commitment to holding powerful institutions accountable. This is the team Calhoun County families need in their corner.

What to Do Right Now: Your Action Plan for Justice

If your child has been a victim of hazing in Calhoun County, Georgia, or anywhere else, the immediate aftermath can feel chaotic and overwhelming. It’s critical to act swiftly and strategically to protect their rights and maximize their chances of justice. Time is of the essence; evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and crucial legal deadlines are ticking.

Here’s an actionable plan for families in Calhoun County:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: This is the absolute priority. If your child has sustained any physical injuries—no matter how minor they seem—seek immediate medical care. Insist on a thorough examination and ensure all injuries, even seemingly small bruises or scrapes, are documented by medical professionals. For internal injuries potentially caused by hazing, like rhabdomyolysis or internal organ damage, go to the Emergency Room. Medical records are critical evidence in a hazing lawsuit. Delays in seeking treatment can be used by the defense to argue that injuries weren’t severe or related to the hazing.
2. Preserve All Evidence: Document Everything!
   • Medical Records: Keep copies of all hospital records, doctor’s notes, prescriptions, physical therapy reports, and medical bills.
   • Photos/Videos: Photograph every injury at all stages of healing. If there’s any photographic or video evidence of the hazing itself, save it immediately. This includes any images or videos that might have been taken by the hazers themselves and shared among them.
   • Communications: This is paramount. Save and screenshot every single text message, GroupMe chat, Snapchat, Instagram DM, email, or any other digital communication related to the hazing. This includes conversations between your child and fraternity/sorority members, other pledges, and anyone discussing the events. Do not delete anything. As Attorney911 emphasizes, “Take pictures. Take pictures. Take pictures. Take more pictures than you think you need to.”
   • Witness Information: Collect the names and contact information (phone numbers, email, social media handles) of any other pledges, active members, or bystanders who witnessed the hazing or have knowledge of it.
   • Hazing “Documentation”: Save any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or communications your child received from the organization.
   • Financial Records: Keep track of any medical bills, lost wages (if your child missed work), and tuition/fees for any semesters your child had to withdraw from or struggled through due to the hazing.
   • Academic Records: Document how the hazing impacted your child’s grades, ability to attend classes, or pursuit of scholarships.
3. Do NOT Communicate with the Organization, University, or Their Representatives Without Legal Counsel:
   • Do NOT deal with the fraternity/sorority leadership: They will attempt to coerce silence, coordinate stories, and minimize wrongdoing.
   • Do NOT give statements to university administrators alone: While you should typically report hazing to the university, do so only after consulting with an attorney. Universities prioritize their own liability and reputation over your child’s well-being. Any statement given can be used against your child.
   • Do NOT talk to insurance companies: Whether it’s the fraternity’s, the university’s, or even your own, insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Attorney911 advises, “Never talk to the insurance company after an accident” without your lawyer present.
   • Do NOT sign anything: Do not sign any documents, waivers, or confidentiality agreements presented by the fraternity, university, or their legal representatives without your attorney’s review.
4. Stay Off Social Media: This is a critical warning. Do not post anything about the hazing incident, your child’s injuries, or the lawsuit on social media. Do not post photos showing your child “doing fine” or at parties. Anything your child or family posts can and will be used by the defense to undermine the case. As our video “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident” warns, silence is golden online during litigation.
5. Call Attorney911 Immediately: The Statute of Limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases in Georgia, like in Texas, is typically two years from the date of the injury or death. While this may seem like ample time, evidence can disappear quickly, witnesses’ memories fade, and important details can be lost. Our attorneys can step in immediately to preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and file the necessary legal actions to protect your child’s rights.
   • Distance is Not a Barrier: Even though our offices are in metropolitan Texas (Houston, Austin, Beaumont), we serve hazing victims in Calhoun County and across the country. We offer video consultations for Georgia families, and our attorneys are prepared to travel to Calhoun County for depositions, meetings, and trials as needed. Your location will not prevent us from fighting for you.
   • Free, Confidential Consultation: Calling us costs you nothing and places you under no obligation. It simply empowers you with knowledge of your rights and options.

You Are Not Alone. We Can Help.

Many hazing victims feel isolated and ashamed, fearing retribution or that they are somehow complicit. Your attorney serves as your shield, protecting you from manipulation and ensuring your story is heard. We guide you through every step of the legal process, from investigation and evidence gathering to negotiations and, if necessary, trial. We know the tactics that institutions use to deny accountability, and having fiercely experienced attorneys on your side can significantly increase your chances of obtaining the maximum possible compensation.

If your family in Calhoun County has been impacted by hazing, seize control of the situation. Take these immediate steps, and then reach out to us. We will fight for the justice your child deserves.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline in Calhoun County, Georgia

The moment you realize your child has been a victim of hazing, it becomes an emergency situation – a legal emergency that demands immediate, aggressive action. For families in Calhoun County, Georgia, facing this crisis, Attorney911 is your dedicated hotline to justice. We are ready to listen, advise, and fight for you with the same unwavering commitment we demonstrate in our landmark cases across the nation.

Calhoun County, Georgia, Families, Call Us Now for a Free Consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Email Us 24/7: ralph@atty911.com

Visit Our Website: attorney911.com

We understand that you may be feeling scared, angry, and overwhelmed. That’s why we make contacting us as easy and reassuring as possible.

• Available 24/7: Hazing emergencies don’t keep business hours, and neither do we. Our hotline is open around the clock to ensure you can reach us when you need us most.
• Free, Confidential Consultation: Your initial consultation with us is completely free and confidential. This is your opportunity to share your story without judgment, understand your legal options, and get clear answers to your urgent questions. There is no obligation, only empowerment.
• No Upfront Fees – We Work on Contingency: We believe that access to justice should not be determined by your financial situation. We take all hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means:
  • You pay $0 upfront.
  • We only get paid if we win your case.
  • Our fees are a percentage of the compensation we secure for you. If we don’t win, you don’t pay us a dime for our legal services. This arrangement allows you to pursue justice against powerful institutions without financial risk.
• We Come to You (or Meet Virtually): While our primary offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, distance is never a barrier to justice. We regularly conduct remote consultations via phone or video conference, allowing Calhoun County families to meet with us from the comfort and privacy of their homes. For critical phases of your case, such as depositions or trials, our team is prepared to travel to Calhoun County, Georgia, or any necessary location.

Don’t Wait. Act Now.

The window for pursuing justice in hazing cases can be narrow. The statute of limitations, typically two years in Georgia, means that any delay could jeopardize your child’s legal rights. More importantly, crucial evidence can be lost or destroyed over time. By contacting us immediately, you empower our team to:

• Preserve vital evidence: From digital communications to witness testimonies, every piece of evidence is critical.
• Navigate complex legal and institutional landscapes: We handle all communications with fraternities, national organizations, universities, and their insurance companies, shielding you from their tactics.
• Build a powerful, data-driven case: Leveraging our intelligence database and aggressive litigation strategies.
• Seek the maximum compensation: For medical expenses, psychological trauma, lost educational opportunities, and severe pain and suffering.

We Represent All Types of Hazing Victims in Calhoun County

Hazing is not limited to fraternities. We represent victims of hazing in a wide range of organizations at universities, colleges, and schools where students from Calhoun County might attend, including:

• Fraternities and sororities
• Sports teams and athletic programs
• Marching bands and musical collectives
• ROTC programs
• Academic clubs and social organizations
• Any group that uses abuse, humiliation, or forced activities as an “initiation ritual.”

To Other Victims of University of Houston/Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

If you are a student who also suffered abuse at the hands of the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi chapter or witnessed the hazing that injured Leonel Bermudez, we know you are out there. We encourage you to reach out to us discreetly and confidentially. Your testimony could be vital to strengthening our case and preventing future harm. You have rights, and we are here to protect them.

Your child’s pain and your family’s suffering demand accountability. Let Attorney911 be your force for justice in Calhoun County, Georgia. Call us today.