Hazing Victims in Colquitt County: Know Your Rights and How to Fight Back
Colquitt County Families: Your Child Deserves Justice
If your son or daughter has been a victim of hazing at a fraternity, sorority, or other student organization in or near Colquitt County, Georgia, you’re not alone. What happened to them wasn’t “tradition” or “team bonding” – it was abuse. And it’s time to hold those responsible accountable.
At Attorney 911, we’re currently fighting a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston after a student was hospitalized with kidney failure from extreme hazing. The same fraternities that operate at universities near Colquitt County have the same dangerous cultures. Your child’s case could be next.
What Is Hazing – And Why It’s Illegal in Georgia
Hazing isn’t just harmless fun. It’s any activity that endangers a student’s physical or mental health for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in an organization. In Georgia, hazing is a criminal offense that can result in jail time.
Examples of hazing that happens at Colquitt County-area schools:
- Forced excessive alcohol consumption
- Physical beatings or paddling
- Extreme exercise to the point of collapse
- Sleep deprivation
- Psychological abuse and humiliation
- Sexual assault or inappropriate touching
- Waterboarding or other forms of torture
Georgia law is clear: Consent is NOT a defense. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the law still holds the perpetrators accountable.
The Hazing Crisis in Georgia and Beyond
Hazing isn’t just happening at big universities – it’s happening right here near Colquitt County. The same national fraternities involved in high-profile hazing deaths across the country have chapters at Georgia colleges and universities.
Recent hazing cases that made national news:
- 2025: A University of Houston student was hospitalized with kidney failure after being waterboarded and forced to do 500 squats during Pi Kappa Phi hazing
- 2021: Stone Foltz died at Bowling Green State University after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol – his family won a $10.1 million settlement
- 2017: Maxwell Gruver died at LSU after a Phi Delta Theta hazing ritual – the family won a $6.1 million jury verdict
- 2017: Timothy Piazza died at Penn State after a Beta Theta Pi drinking ritual – the family settled for over $110 million
These aren’t isolated incidents – they’re part of a dangerous culture that exists at universities near Colquitt County too.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for Hazing in Colquitt County?
When hazing happens, multiple parties can be held legally and financially responsible:
- The Local Chapter – The fraternity or sorority that directly organized the hazing
- National Organization – The parent organization that failed to supervise and prevent hazing
- University/College – The institution that failed to protect your child despite knowing the risks
- Individual Members – The students who participated in or facilitated the hazing
- House Corporations – The entities that own or control the property where hazing occurred
In our current case, we’re suing:
- Pi Kappa Phi National Organization
- The local chapter
- The housing corporation
- The University of Houston (which owned the fraternity house)
- Individual fraternity members
What Damages Can Colquitt County Families Recover?
Hazing victims and their families may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, rehabilitation, future treatment)
- Lost wages (time missed from work or school)
- Pain and suffering (physical and emotional trauma)
- Mental health treatment (therapy for PTSD, anxiety, depression)
- Educational disruption (tuition, lost scholarships)
- Punitive damages (to punish the defendants and prevent future hazing)
In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million – an amount that reflects the severity of the injuries and sends a message that this behavior won’t be tolerated.
Why Colquitt County Families Choose Attorney 911
We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now
While other law firms talk about hazing cases, we’re actively litigating one. We filed a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston just weeks ago. We know the strategies that work because we’re using them right now.
Former Insurance Defense Attorneys
Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked for insurance companies before switching sides to represent victims. We know how the other side thinks because we used to be on their team. This gives us an unfair advantage in negotiations and litigation.
Nationwide Reach for Colquitt County Victims
While we’re based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including in Colquitt County and throughout Georgia. We have:
- Federal court authority
- Dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York)
- Willingness to travel to Colquitt County for depositions and trials
- Remote consultation technology
Proven Results in High-Stakes Cases
- Currently litigating a $10 million hazing case
- Involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation (one of the largest industrial disasters in U.S. history)
- Recovered millions for victims in personal injury cases
- Extensive experience with catastrophic injuries like rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
We Speak Spanish
Many hazing victims in Colquitt County come from Spanish-speaking families. We’re fluent in Spanish and can serve your family without language barriers.
No Upfront Costs for Colquitt County Families
We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. No hourly fees, no retainers, no financial risk to you.
What Should Colquitt County Families Do If Their Child Was Hazed?
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if your child says they’re “fine,” get them checked by a doctor. Some injuries (like rhabdomyolysis from extreme exercise) may not show symptoms right away but can be life-threatening.
2. Preserve All Evidence
- Take photos of any injuries
- Save all communications (texts, social media, emails)
- Document everything (dates, times, locations, what happened)
- Get witness information (names and contact info of other pledges or witnesses)
- Keep all medical records
3. Do NOT Talk to the Organization or University Without Legal Counsel
Fraternities, sororities, and universities will try to protect themselves – not your child. Anything your child says can be used against them. Refer all communication to your attorney.
4. Do NOT Post on Social Media
Insurance companies and defense attorneys will scour social media for anything that can be used to minimize your claim. Stay off social media until your case is resolved.
5. Contact Attorney 911 Immediately
Time is critical. In Georgia, you typically have 2 years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and your rights expire.
Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation.
The Hazing Case We’re Fighting Right Now – And What It Means for Colquitt County
The Incident That Hospitalized Our Client
In November 2025, a University of Houston student was hospitalized with severe rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure after weeks of extreme hazing by Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. The hazing included:
- Waterboarding with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
- Forced to do 500 squats and 100+ pushups until he collapsed
- Struck with wooden paddles
- Forced to eat until vomiting and then made to continue exercising
- Sleep deprivation from being forced to drive fraternity members at all hours
- Psychological abuse and humiliation
The student spent 4 days in the hospital fighting for his life. This happened at a fraternity house owned by the University of Houston.
Why This Case Matters for Colquitt County
-
The Same Fraternities Operate Near Colquitt County
- Pi Kappa Phi has chapters at universities across the country, including in Georgia
- Other fraternities with hazing histories also have chapters near Colquitt County
-
Universities Near Colquitt County Have the Same Oversight Failures
- The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where the hazing occurred
- Universities near Colquitt County have the same power – and the same responsibility – to prevent hazing
-
National Organizations Know About the Problem
- Pi Kappa Phi had a student die from hazing in 2017 – 8 years before our client was hospitalized
- They knew about the “hazing crisis” and did nothing
- The same pattern of negligence exists at fraternities near Colquitt County
-
This Can Happen to Any Student Near Colquitt County
- Our client wasn’t even a University of Houston student yet – he was a “ghost rush” expected to transfer
- Hazing doesn’t just happen to enrolled students – it can happen to anyone involved in Greek life
Common Hazing Defenses – And Why They Fail
When fraternities, sororities, and universities are sued for hazing, they often try to blame the victim. Here’s how we fight back:
| Defense Claim | Our Counter-Argument |
|---|---|
| “He/she consented to participate” | Georgia law explicitly says consent is NOT a defense to hazing |
| “It was just tradition” | Tradition doesn’t make illegal activity legal |
| “We didn’t know it was happening” | Universities and national organizations have a duty to supervise |
| “It was just a prank” | Torture is not a prank – waterboarding is a war crime |
| “The injuries weren’t that serious” | Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure are life-threatening conditions |
| “We’ve already punished the chapter” | Closing a chapter doesn’t compensate the victim or prevent future hazing |
What to Expect When You Work With Attorney 911
1. Free, Confidential Consultation
We’ll listen to your story and evaluate your case at no cost to you.
2. Immediate Action to Protect Your Rights
- Send preservation letters to defendants demanding they keep all evidence
- Gather medical records and other documentation
- Begin building your case immediately
3. Aggressive Negotiation with Defendants
We’ll demand fair compensation from:
- The fraternity/sorority
- The national organization
- The university
- Individual perpetrators
- Insurance companies
4. Litigation if Necessary
If the defendants won’t offer a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to trial. We don’t back down from powerful institutions.
5. Maximizing Your Compensation
We’ll fight for every dollar you deserve, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages
Colquitt County Universities and Colleges: Greek Life Hazing Risks
Many universities and colleges near Colquitt County have active Greek life organizations. The same national fraternities involved in hazing deaths and lawsuits have chapters at these schools:
| University/College Near Colquitt County | Greek Life Presence | Notable Fraternities/Sororities |
|---|---|---|
| Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College | Yes | Multiple fraternities and sororities |
| Valdosta State University | Yes | Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, others |
| Georgia Southwestern State University | Yes | Multiple fraternities and sororities |
| Albany State University | Yes | Multiple fraternities and sororities |
| Thomas University | Yes | Smaller Greek system |
This is not a complete list. If your child attends a college or university near Colquitt County with Greek life, they face the same hazing risks that hospitalized our client.
Warning Signs of Hazing Near Colquitt County
Parents should be alert for these warning signs that your child may be experiencing hazing:
-
Physical signs:
- Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries
- Exhaustion or sleep deprivation
- Weight loss
- Signs of alcohol poisoning (vomiting, confusion, passing out)
- Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis (dark urine, muscle pain, difficulty moving)
-
Behavioral changes:
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Sudden secrecy about activities
- Anxiety or depression
- Fear of retaliation
- Reluctance to discuss Greek life activities
-
Academic decline:
- Dropping grades
- Missing classes
- Difficulty concentrating
If you notice any of these signs, talk to your child and consider contacting an attorney.
Georgia Hazing Laws: What Colquitt County Families Need to Know
Georgia has strong laws against hazing, but enforcement is often lacking. Here’s what you need to know:
Georgia Criminal Law (O.C.G.A. § 16-5-61)
- Hazing is a misdemeanor offense
- If hazing results in serious bodily injury or death, it becomes a felony
- Consent is NOT a defense – even if your child “agreed” to participate
- Individuals can face jail time for hazing
Civil Liability
- Victims can sue for money damages
- Universities and national organizations can be held responsible
- Punitive damages may be awarded for especially egregious conduct
University Policies
- Most Georgia universities have anti-hazing policies
- Violations can result in expulsion from the university
- However, universities often fail to enforce these policies
How to Report Hazing in Georgia
If your child has been hazed, you can report it to:
- The university’s Greek life office
- Local law enforcement (Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office or city police)
- Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI)
- Attorney 911 – we can guide you through the reporting process
Remember: Reporting hazing can help protect other students from going through the same experience.
Colquitt County Hazing Victims: You’re Not Alone
Hazing can make victims feel isolated and ashamed. But you’re not alone.
- Other students have gone through the same thing – and won justice
- Universities and fraternities have paid millions in settlements
- The law is on your side – hazing is illegal in Georgia
- We’re here to fight for you – with the same aggression we’re using in our current $10 million case
Colquitt County Families: Take Action Now
Step 1: Call Attorney 911
1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
- Available 24/7
- Free, confidential consultation
- No obligation
Step 2: Preserve Evidence
- Save all texts, social media, and emails
- Take photos of injuries
- Get witness contact information
- Keep all medical records
Step 3: Don’t Talk to the Other Side
- Refer all communication to your attorney
- Don’t give statements without legal counsel
- Don’t sign anything
Step 4: Let Us Fight for You
- We’ll handle all negotiations
- We’ll gather evidence and build your case
- We’ll take them to court if necessary
Frequently Asked Questions from Colquitt County Families
Q: My child was hazed but doesn’t want to report it. What should I do?
A: We understand that victims often fear retaliation or social consequences. You don’t need your child’s permission to consult with an attorney. We can advise you on your legal options and help you decide the best course of action.
Q: The fraternity says my child consented. Does that mean we can’t sue?
A: No. Georgia law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the law still holds the perpetrators accountable.
Q: We’re worried about the cost of a lawsuit. How much will this cost us?
A: Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis – we only get paid if we win your case. There’s no financial risk to your family.
Q: The university says they’re investigating. Should we wait?
A: No. University investigations are designed to protect the university – not your child. Contact an attorney immediately to protect your rights.
Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
A: In Georgia, you typically have 2 years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. However, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible – evidence disappears and witnesses forget over time.
Q: My child attends a college near Colquitt County. Can you still help us?
A: Yes. We represent hazing victims nationwide, including in Georgia and the Colquitt County area. We can handle your case remotely or travel to you as needed.
Q: What if my child was hazed but not physically injured?
A: Psychological trauma is just as real as physical injury. If your child suffered emotional distress, PTSD, anxiety, or depression from hazing, they may still have a case.
Q: The fraternity already punished the chapter. Isn’t that enough?
A: No. Closing a chapter doesn’t compensate your child for their injuries. It doesn’t cover medical bills, therapy costs, or pain and suffering. Your child deserves justice.
Q: How much is our case worth?
A: Every case is different. Factors that affect case value include:
- Severity of injuries
- Medical expenses
- Psychological trauma
- Lost wages or educational opportunities
- The egregiousness of the hazing
- Whether the university or national organization knew about prior hazing
In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million – an amount that reflects the severity of the injuries and sends a message that this behavior won’t be tolerated.
Colquitt County: It’s Time to End the Culture of Hazing
Hazing has been a problem for decades, but it doesn’t have to be this way. With strong legal action, we can:
- Hold perpetrators accountable
- Force universities to implement real oversight
- Make fraternities and sororities change their cultures
- Protect future students from going through what your child experienced
Your child didn’t deserve this. No student does. Together, we can make sure this never happens to another Colquitt County family.
Contact Attorney 911 Today
For Colquitt County hazing victims and families:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com
Available 24/7 – Free, confidential consultation – No upfront costs
We’re fighting this battle right now. Let us fight for your Colquitt County family too.
