If you’re reading this in Crisp County, Georgia, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went off to college, hoping to find community and friendship. Instead, they were subjected to abuse, humiliation, and potentially life-threatening hazing. We understand what you’re going through, Crisp County. Your child was supposed to make friends, but they were tortured instead. We’re here to help families in Crisp County fight back.

Hazing is not a harmless rite of passage. It is assault. It is battery. In the worst cases, it is manslaughter or murder. We are Attorney911, and our firm is actively fighting this battle right now. Just weeks ago, in November 2025, we filed a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members for the brutal hazing of our client, Leonel Bermudez. He was waterboarded. He was hog-tied. He was forced to eat until he vomited. He endured psychological torture, sleep deprivation, and physical exertion so extreme his muscles broke down and his kidneys failed. He spent four agonizing days in the hospital with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. And he wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet; he was a “ghost rush” planning to transfer. They did this to someone who was not even their student.

This is what hazing looks like today, in Texas, at universities just like those your children from Crisp County might attend, whether in Georgia or across the country. And Attorney911 is the firm that fights back. We bring the same aggressive, data-driven, and relentless pursuit of accountability for hazing victims that we’re applying in Houston to Crisp County families and victims nationwide.

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

Our current $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is the centerpiece of everything we stand for. This isn’t theoretical; this is real, ongoing litigation in Harris County Civil District Court. This case shows how aggressively we pursue justice for hazing victims. For families in Crisp County, this case serves as a stark warning and a powerful example of what can be done to hold powerful institutions accountable.

The same fraternities that operate at the University of Houston also have chapters at universities throughout Georgia, including institutions near Crisp County. The same dangerous “traditions” that led to Leonel’s hospitalization could be happening right now at a college or university your child attends or plans to attend. The same institutional negligence that we allege against the University of Houston exists at countless campuses across the nation. We are ready to bring the full weight of our experience and resources to bear for Crisp County families, just as we are for Leonel Bermudez.

Fresh from the Press: Media Coverage of Our Fight

Our lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston has garnered significant media attention across major news outlets. This coverage isn’t just about reporting, it’s about amplifying the crisis of hazing and putting institutions on notice. These reports highlight the detailed allegations against the fraternity and the university:

ABC13 Houston: On November 21-22, 2025, ABC13 ran a detailed report titled “Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges.” This coverage featured direct quotes from our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, shedding light on the brutal nature of the hazing and the victim’s fear of retribution.
KHOU 11: On November 21, 2025, KHOU 11 reported, “$10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations.” KHOU was the first to identify our client, Leonel Bermudez, by name, and importantly, revealed that the hazing took place in a “University-owned fraternity house,” highlighting UH’s premises liability.
Houston Chronicle: The Houston Chronicle’s November 22, 2025, article, “UH fraternity hazing lawsuit,” listed some of the particularly egregious physical hazing activities, including “high-volume suicides,” “bear crawls,” “wheelbarrows,” and “being struck with wooden paddles.”
Houston Public Media: On November 24, 2025, Houston Public Media delivered a comprehensive piece, “University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing,” confirming the $10 million figure and explicitly stating that “waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.” This report also included a statement from a University of Houston spokesperson.
Pi Kappa Phi National (DEFENDANT): Even the national fraternity issued a statement on their website on November 21, 2025, titled “Pi Kappa Phi Closes Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston,” acknowledging “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This is a crucial admission of wrongdoing directly from a defendant.

The Defendants: Who We Are Holding Accountable

Our $10 million lawsuit, filed in Harris County Civil District Court, names a comprehensive list of defendants, reflecting our strategy to engage every entity responsible for Leonel’s horrific injuries:

Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter): The local chapter that directly orchestrated and executed the hazing.
Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters: The national organization, responsible for oversight and enforcement of anti-hazing policies, which clearly failed.
Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation: The entity associated with the fraternity that owned or controlled the property where hazing occurred.
University of Houston: The institution itself, which owned the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place and failed in its duty to protect students.
UH Board of Regents: The governing body of the university, bearing ultimate institutional responsibility.
Fraternity President and Pledgemaster: Key chapter leaders who directed and facilitated the hazing practices.
Current and Former Members: Including 13 individual fraternity members who either participated in the hazing or allowed it to happen.
A Former Member and His Spouse: Notably, hazing sessions occurred at their private residence, extending liability beyond university property.

Leonel’s Story: A Warning for Crisp County Families

Leonel Bermudez was not just a name in a lawsuit; he was a young man with aspirations. He was a “ghost rush,” meaning he had not yet formally enrolled at the University of Houston but intended to transfer for the Spring 2026 semester. The fact that he was not even officially a student yet underscores the recklessness and callous disregard for human life displayed by the fraternity and the failure of institutional oversight. They inflicted this horror on someone who was not even their student.

Leonel accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi on September 16, 2025. What followed was an unrelenting campaign of abuse and torture that stretched for weeks. His ordeal culminated in multiple nights and days in the hospital, grappling with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

As 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.”

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

The Hazing Timeline: A Descent into Torture

The timeline of Leonel Bermudez’s hazing reveals a systematic and escalating pattern of abuse:

September 16, 2025: Leonel accepts a bid to Pi Kappa Phi.
September 16 – November 3, 2025: Weeks of systematic hazing, abuse, and torture begin, escalating over this period.
Throughout this period: Leonel is subjected to an enforced dress code, required study hours, weekly interviews, and forced to carry a fanny pack containing sexual objects. He’s made to drive fraternity members at all hours, leading to severe exhaustion. Threats of physical punishment or expulsion enforce compliance.
October 13, 2025: A particularly horrifying event occurs where another pledge is hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.
October 15, 2025: During a forced workout, a pledge loses consciousness and collapses. Other pledges are forced to elevate his legs until he recovers. This grave incident did not stop the hazing.
Multiple occasions: Leonel is waterboarded with a garden hose, an act recognized globally as torture. He’s also forced to eat massive quantities of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomits, only to be forced to continue exercising while drenched in his own puke. He is exposed to cold weather, sprayed with water, and even struck with wooden paddles.
November 3, 2025: The climax of the abuse. Leonel is brutally punished with over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls while reciting the fraternity creed. He is threatened with immediate expulsion if he stops. He becomes so exhausted he cannot stand without help.
November 4-5, 2025: Leonel’s condition worsens, unable to move due to extreme soreness.
November 6, 2025: Leonel’s mother rushes him to the hospital after he begins passing brown urine – a classic sign of severe muscle breakdown. He is diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. On the same day, Pi Kappa Phi National suspends the chapter.
November 6-10, 2025: Leonel is hospitalized for three nights and four days, undergoing intensive medical treatment.
November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National officially closes the Beta Nu Chapter.
November 21, 2025: Our $10 million lawsuit is filed in Harris County Civil District Court, immediately garnering widespread media attention.

What Hazing Really Looks Like Today

For too long, hazing has been dismissed as harmless fun or “boys being boys.” The truth, as revealed in Leonel Bermudez’s case, is far darker. Hazing is systematic abuse that can lead to severe injury, permanent damage, and even death. It needs to be understood as what it truly is: assault, battery, torture, reckless endangerment, and sometimes, manslaughter or murder.

Crisp County parents often send their children to college expecting them to be safe, to further their education, and to mature into responsible adults. They do not expect their children to be subjected to the kind of abuse found in war zones.

Hazing Activities Exposed in Our Lawsuit: Not Pranks, But PURE Torture

The allegations in our lawsuit paint a grim picture of extreme and life-threatening activities:

Waterboarding / Simulated Drowning: Leonel was sprayed in the face with a garden hose while doing calisthenics, simulating drowning. This is recognized as torture by international human rights organizations and, as Houston Public Media noted, “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.” They did this to a college student. Crisp County families need to understand this gravity.
Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Pledges, including Leonel, were made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited. Afterward, they were forced to continue running sprints in their own vomit-soaked grass.
Extreme Physical Punishment: This included forced exercises like over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and 100-yard crawls. Pledges were struck with wooden paddles. On one occasion, a pledge lost consciousness and collapsed during these workouts.
Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was forced to carry a fanny pack with sexually explicit objects. Another pledge was hog-tied face-down with an object in his mouth. Pledges were stripped to their underwear in cold weather. All these acts were accompanied by threats of expulsion or further physical harm.
Sleep Deprivation & Exhaustion: Forced early-morning drives for fraternity members led to chronic exhaustion.

The Medical Consequences: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

The physical toll of this abuse was severe. Leonel suffered from rhabdomyolysis, a condition where damaged muscle tissue releases proteins into the bloodstream, which can severely damage the kidneys. This led to acute kidney failure, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical intervention. His passing brown urine was a classic warning sign of this dangerous condition. He was hospitalized for four days, and faces potential long-term kidney damage. This is the same medical condition that our firm has successfully litigated before, demonstrating Ralph Manginello’s specific expertise in these severe hazing cases.

Institutional Responses: Deflection and Damage Control

The official responses from the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters reveal attempts at damage control rather than genuine remorse:

University of Houston Spokesperson (Houston Public Media): Admitted the “events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards,” and mentioned “potential criminal charges.” This is an admission against interest, acknowledging the severity and potential illegality of the actions.
Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters (Their own website): Stated they “closed its Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” Importantly, they closed the chapter seven days before our lawsuit was filed, suggesting they knew litigation was imminent. Their statement also proudly declared, “we look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time,” betraying a shocking lack of remorse.

These responses demonstrate that powerful institutions often prioritize their reputation and future operations over genuine accountability. For Crisp County families, this proves that without aggressive legal representation, these institutions will continue to operate with impunity.

Why This Case Matters to Crisp County Families

Proof That “Tradition” is Torture: These aren’t just pranks. This is systematic, violent abuse. Hazing is a national crisis that affects communities like Crisp County.
Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where the hazing occurred. Universities near Crisp County, such as Albany State University, South Georgia State College, or Middle Georgia State University, have the same power to stop hazing and bear the same liability when they fail.
National Organizations Know: Pi Kappa Phi’s national leadership immediately suspended and then dissolved the UH chapter, proving they knew exactly what was wrong. The same national Greek organizations that lead to cases like Leonel’s operate at universities where Crisp County students enroll, and they know what’s happening.
Victims Are Afraid: Leonel Bermudez is fearful of retribution. Victims in Crisp County face similar fears. We protect our clients and ensure their safety.
One Brave Victim Can Protect Crisp County Students: As Lupe Peña said, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do.” Your case in Crisp County could set a precedent and save lives.
$10 Million Sends a Message: This substantial demand is the price for torturing our children. It’s a message that Crisp County families, through aggressive representation, can also send.

The Hazing Crisis: Why Crisp County Families Need Us

Hazing is a pervasive and dangerous issue in colleges and universities across the United States. It transcends specific institutions or states; it is a national epidemic. Crisp County, Georgia, like any other community that sends its students to college, is not immune from this crisis. Whether your child attends a state university, a private college, or a technical institution in Georgia or elsewhere, the risk of hazing in fraternities, sororities, sports teams, or other organizations is alarmingly real.

The Alarming Numbers: More Than Just “Bad Press”

55% of students in Greek organizations experience hazing. This staggering statistic from hazing.org reveals that hazing is not an isolated incident but a common experience within these groups.
40% of student athletes report hazing. It’s not just fraternities; hazing permeates other student groups, including sports.
Since 2000, there has been at least one hazing-related death every year in the United States. This horrific statistic underscores the deadly consequences of unchecked hazing practices.
95% of students who are hazed do NOT report it. Shame, fear of retribution, and a misplaced sense of loyalty often silence victims, allowing the cycle of abuse to continue. This is why immediate, expert legal intervention is so crucial.

The Institutional Betrayal: Trust Broken

Universities and national Greek organizations often claim to have “zero-tolerance” hazing policies. Yet, these policies frequently prove ineffective in practice. They know hazing exists. They know it causes harm. They have the power to stop it. Yet, all too often, they fail to act decisively until a student is severely injured or dies. Then, they issue PR statements, suspend chapters, and claim to be “shocked.” This cycle of neglect and damage control is what Attorney911 aims to disrupt fundamentally.

For Crisp County parents, who entrust their children to these institutions, this failure is a profound betrayal. Whether your child attends the University of Georgia, Georgia Southern, Kennesaw State, or a smaller college in Georgia, the same national fraternities that have caused harm elsewhere maintain chapters there. The same pattern of institutional negligence that allowed Leonel Bermudez to be tortured can occur at any campus.

Types of Hazing: Beyond the Stereotypes

Hazing is far more than just peer pressure or silly pranks. It involves brutal physical, psychological, and sometimes sexual abuse. Based on cases like Leonel’s and other documented incidents, hazing can take many forms:

Physical Abuse: Beatings, paddling, branding, forced exercise to exhaustion (leading to conditions like rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, as in Leonel’s case).
Forced Consumption: Binge drinking, funneling alcohol, forced eating until vomiting, or consuming non-food substances. These often lead to alcohol poisoning, aspiration, or severe gastrointestinal distress.
Sleep Deprivation: Requiring pledges to stay awake for extended periods, perform tasks at all hours, or disrupting sleep, leading to physical and mental breakdown.
Psychological Torture: Humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, isolation, threats, and creating an environment of constant fear and anxiety. This can lead to severe mental health issues like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Sexual Abuse: Forced nudity, sexual acts, or carrying sexually explicit objects (as seen in Leonel’s case). This is not hazing; it is sexual assault.
Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As Leonel experienced, this is a form of water torture that inflicts extreme terror.
Exposure: Forcing students into extreme hot or cold environments, or small, confined spaces, leading to hypothermia, heatstroke, or panic attacks.

The medical consequences of such abuse are severe: rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, alcohol poisoning, traumatic brain injury, burns, broken bones, hypothermia, and long-term psychological damage. These are not minor injuries; they are life-altering or life-ending.

Who Is Responsible: Every Entity and Individual Who Participated or Allowed It

Our lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston demonstrates our commitment to holding every liable party accountable. We don’t just target the immediate perpetrators; we look at the entire chain of command and oversight.

Local Chapter: The Beta Nu chapter directly organized and carried out the hazing. The chapter officers, such as the president and pledgemaster, bear direct responsibility.
Individual Members: Every member who participated in, directed, or witnessed the hazing and failed to intervene can be held liable. This includes former members who hosted hazing at their residences, and even their spouses who allowed it.
National Fraternity/Sorority Organizations: National bodies like Pi Kappa Phi National often have millions in assets and insurance. They possess specific expertise tailored for national fraternity litigation. They are responsible for overseeing local chapters, enforcing anti-hazing policies, and ensuring member safety. When they fail, resulting in harm, they are financially liable. The fact that Pi Kappa Phi National immediately suspended and dissolved the UH chapter indicates their awareness of the wrongdoing, yet their earlier failure to prevent it.
Universities & Colleges: Institutions like the University of Houston share significant liability, especially when they own or control the property where hazing occurs. Universities have a duty to protect students, to regulate Greek life, and to enforce their own anti-hazing policies. When they fail to do so, they are accountable. This applies to public and private universities that Crisp County students may attend, including the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Emory University, and smaller state colleges.
Insurance Carriers: These entities ultimately bear much of the financial burden for settlements and verdicts. As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña possess invaluable insider knowledge of how insurance companies operate, strategize, and attempt to minimize claims. This experience allows us to anticipate their tactics and maximize recovery for our clients.

We pursue everyone involved, because accountability requires a comprehensive approach. It’s not about suing “broke college kids”; it’s about forcing powerful institutions and individuals to take responsibility.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof

The devastation caused by hazing demands significant compensation. We bring a $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez not arbitrarily, but because it aligns with a growing body of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in hazing cases across the nation. These precedent cases send an unequivocal message: hazing will cost you millions.

For Crisp County families, these outcomes prove that justice is achievable, and the financial and emotional toll of hazing can be compensated. These aren’t isolated incidents; they are part of a national reckoning.

Landmark Verdicts & Settlements: Justice for Hazing Victims

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Total: $10.1 Million+
Stone Foltz, 20, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation event and died from alcohol poisoning. The tragic case resulted in over $10.1 million in settlements, with Bowling Green State University paying $2.9 million and the fraternity and individuals contributing $7.2 million. This established a critical precedent for institutional and organizational liability, with the recent judgment in December 2024 against Daylen Dunson, a former chapter president, personally for $6.5 million. Our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez stands firmly within this established range, even though Leonel survived with life-threatening injuries.
Maxwell Gruver – Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017): Total: $6.1 Million Verdict
Maxwell Gruver, 18, died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume excessive alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta hazing ritual. A jury awarded his family $6.1 million. This verdict, along with his mother’s tireless advocacy, led to the passing of the “Max Gruver Act” in Louisiana, making hazing a felony. This case highlights that juries are willing to deliver substantial verdicts against fraternities for egregious hazing.
Timothy Piazza – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017): Total: $110+ Million (Estimated)
Timothy Piazza, 19, was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi event, leading to a fall that caused traumatic brain injury. Fraternity members delayed seeking medical help for 12 hours. His death resulted in confidential settlements estimated to be over $110 million and the passage of Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.” This case, with its strong video evidence, demonstrates the immense value placed on a young life tragically lost to hazing.
Andrew Coffey – Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Same Fraternity as Our Case
Andrew Coffey, 20, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink a full bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night.” This is particularly significant for Leonel Bermudez’s case as Andrew Coffey died in a hazing incident involving the same national fraternity. This establishes a pattern of dangerous behavior by Pi Kappa Phi National and directly supports claims of foreseeable harm and negligent oversight.
Adam Oakes – Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021): $4+ Million Settlement
Adam Oakes, 19, died after a Delta Chi hazing event involving forced alcohol consumption. His family, after initially seeking $28 million, recently settled his wrongful death case for over $4 million in October 2024. This case again demonstrates substantial financial accountability.
University of Alabama / Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2023): Traumatic Brain Injury Case
A recent lawsuit was filed against Sigma Alpha Epsilon at the University of Alabama for a traumatic brain injury sustained during hazing, indicating that even non-fatal serious injuries warrant significant legal action and compensation.
University of Houston / Pi Kappa Alpha (2017-2019): Prior UH Hazing Case
Critically, the University of Houston faced a prior $1 million hazing lawsuit in 2017 when a Pi Kappa Alpha pledge, Jared Munoz, suffered a lacerated spleen. A grand jury even indicted the national organization. This incident proves that UH had prior knowledge of severe hazing on its campus and failed to prevent recurrence.

Legislation Born from Tragedy: Protecting Students from Hazing

These powerful cases have not only resulted in multi-million dollar awards but have also spurred significant legislative change, transforming the legal landscape for hazing:

Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law (Pennsylvania, 2018): Introduced felony charges for hazing causing death and granted immunity for those who report hazing.
Max Gruver Act (Louisiana, 2018): Made hazing a felony and increased penalties.
Collin’s Law (Ohio, 2021): Named after Collin Wiant, introduced felony hazing charges with stronger legal ramifications.
Texas Hazing Law: Our state of Texas has existing laws that include criminal penalties and explicitly state that consent is NOT a defense to hazing.
Stop Campus Hazing Act (Federal): Pending federal legislation that would require colleges to publicly report hazing incidents, increasing transparency and accountability nationwide.

Why These Precedents Matter for Leonel Bermudez and Crisp County Families

Our $10 Million Demand is Fully Supported by Precedent: Cases like Stone Foltz’s, with a $10.1 million payout, set a clear benchmark. Given Leonel’s life-threatening injuries (rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure), our demand reflects the severe physical and emotional trauma he endured, along with future medical needs, pain, suffering, and potential punitive damages.
Pi Kappa Phi Has a Death on Their Record: The death of Andrew Coffey in 2017 is a critical piece of evidence against Pi Kappa Phi. It proves the national organization had actual knowledge of the deadly consequences of their chapters’ hazing activities and, as Leonel’s case shows, failed to implement adequate reforms in the eight years that followed. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and deliberate indifference, strengthening our claim for punitive damages.
University of Houston Has a Documented History of Hazing Problems: The Jared Munoz case in 2017 demonstrates that UH was on notice about severe hazing incidents occurring on its campus. Their failure to prevent Leonel’s hazing demonstrates institutional negligence and a disregard for student safety, directly enhancing our arguments for their liability.
Juries Despise Hazing: The $6.1 million verdict in the Gruver case proves that juries are outraged by hazing and are willing to award substantial sums. The specific acts in Leonel’s case – waterboarding, forced vomiting, 500 squats, and wooden paddles – are so egregious that they are likely to provoke similar outrage.
Potential for Criminal Charges: Texas law already makes hazing a crime, with severe penalties. The University of Houston spokesperson’s mention of “potential criminal charges” indicates that the conduct may also be criminally prosecuted, establishing clear wrongdoing that aids our civil case.

These precedents fortify our legal strategy and demonstrate that we are not merely asking for compensation, but for accountability that matches the severity of the crimes committed by fraternities and enabled by universities.

Texas Law Protects You: The Legal Framework for Crisp County Victims

For Crisp County families navigating the aftermath of hazing, understanding the legal landscape is crucial. While our firm is based in Texas, numerous states have similar anti-hazing statutes, and federal civil rights claims apply nationwide. This means that our firm, with our federal court authority and willingness to travel, can represent victims from Crisp County regardless of where the incident occurred.

Texas Anti-Hazing Laws: A Powerful Shield

Texas has robust anti-hazing legislation under its Education Code, Sections 37.151-37.157. These laws are designed to combat hazing and hold individuals and organizations accountable.

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Texas defines hazing broadly as “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act occurring on or off campus… against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation… if the act” endangers mental or physical health. This includes physical brutality, sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, calisthenics presenting unreasonable risk, and forced consumption of food or alcohol.
- Crisp County Connection: The acts committed against Leonel Bermudez—waterboarding, forced eating, 500 squats, exposure, paddling—fall squarely within multiple subsections of this definition, making the case unequivocally one of severe hazing under Texas law. The hazing your Crisp County child experienced would likely be covered by similar laws in Georgia or relevant states where they attend college.
Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Individuals who engage in hazing can face criminal charges ranging up to a State Jail Felony if the hazing results in death. Hazing causing serious bodily injury, such as Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, is a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Organizations, not just individuals, can also be penalized. If an organization condones, encourages, or if its officers or members commit hazing, it can face fines of up to $10,000 and be denied the right to operate on campus.
Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is one of the most critical aspects of Texas law. It 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.” This directly refutes the common defense used by fraternities that victims “voluntarily participated” or “knew what they signed up for.”
- For Crisp County Families: This means if a fraternity or university tries to diminish your child’s trauma by claiming they consented, the law fundamentally rejects that argument.
University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Universities are legally obligated to report hazing incidents. Failure to do so can also lead to criminal penalties. Our discovery will investigate whether the University of Houston adequately reported all hazing incidents leading up to Leonel’s case.

Civil Liability: Seeking Justice and Compensation for Crisp County Victims

Beyond criminal charges, civil lawsuits provide a powerful avenue for victims and their families to seek justice and compensation for the profound harm caused by hazing.

Negligence Claims: This is a fundamental legal theory in all personal injury cases. It argues that the university, national organization, and individual members had a duty of care to protect students, that they breached that duty through their actions or inactions concerning hazing, that this breach caused the injuries, and that the victim suffered damages as a result.
Premises Liability: When hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (as was the case in Leonel’s situation at the University-owned fraternity house), the institution can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment and allowing dangerous conditions to exist.
Negligent Supervision: This claim targets the failure of national organizations to properly oversee their chapters and of universities to adequately monitor Greek life activities and enforce their policies.
Assault and Battery: The physical acts of hazing, such as waterboarding or paddling, constitute assault and battery, for which individual perpetrators and organizations can be held liable.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: The outrageous and extreme nature of hazing, particularly acts of torture like waterboarding, can lead to severe emotional distress, PTSD, and other psychological harms, forming a strong basis for this claim.
Vicarious Liability: This doctrine holds an entity (e.g., a national fraternity or university) responsible for the actions of its agents (e.g., local chapters, officers, or members) when those actions occur within the scope of their relationship.

For Crisp County families, these civil claims are vital because they allow for the recovery of actual financial damages, compensation for immense pain and suffering, and the imposition of punitive damages to punish egregious conduct and deter future harm. Our firm’s ability to navigate these complex legal theories, coupled with our federal court authority, allows us to pursue these cases across state lines, bringing our expertise directly to families in Crisp County.

Why Attorney911 is the Clear Choice for Crisp County Hazing Victims

When your family in Crisp County faces the devastation of hazing, you need legal representation that is not just knowledgeable, but aggressive, empathetic, and uniquely equipped to take on powerful institutions. Attorney911 embodies all these qualities, offering distinct advantages that set us apart from other firms. We are Legal Emergency Lawyers™ because we move FIRST, FAST, and DECISIVELY when a legal emergency strikes.

Crisp County families deserve the same aggressive, expert representation that we bring to our $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston.

Our Unmatched Expertise and Experience

25+ Years of Battle-Tested Courtroom Experience: Ralph Manginello brings over two decades of experience fighting complex, high-stakes cases. This deep well of courtroom expertise means we are not afraid to go to trial when negotiation fails, offering Crisp County families a proven advocate.
Former Insurance Defense Insight: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are former insurance defense attorneys. This is our “unfair advantage.” We have seen the defense playbook from the inside. We know how insurance companies and large institutions strategize to deny, delay, and minimize claims. This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate their moves, dismantle their defenses, and relentlessly pursue maximum compensation for hazing victims. For Crisp County families, this means we know how the fraternities, universities, and their insurers will try to fight your case, and we know exactly how to counter their tactics.
Federal Court Authority: Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and Ralph’s experience in the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals, provides us with the authority to pursue hazing cases in federal jurisdiction, regardless of where the incident occurred in Crisp County or nationwide. This is crucial when facing national fraternities or universities with multi-state operations.
Dual-State Bar Admission (Texas AND New York): Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York. This dual admission offers a strategic advantage, particularly when dealing with national fraternities and sororities that may be headquartered or have significant operations outside of Texas. We can leverage our capabilities to full effect against any defendant.
Experience with Multi-Billion Dollar Litigation (BP Texas City Explosion): Ralph Manginello’s involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, a multi-billion dollar mass tort against a massive corporate defendant, demonstrates our capacity to handle immensely complex cases against powerful entities. The same aggressive litigation strategies used against BP are applied to hazing cases against national fraternities and universities.
Direct Hazing Litigation Expertise: We are not theoretical. We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit. Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis injury recovery and litigation, a critical detail given Leonel Bermudez’s diagnosis. We also have experience with Kappa Sigma fraternity litigation and hazing cases involving Texas A&M University. This direct and recent experience equips us to handle the unique challenges hazing cases present effectively for Crisp County families.
Wrongful Death Expertise: Lupe Peña has direct experience in wrongful death cases, a critical background given the tragic potential of hazing incidents. This means we are prepared to handle the most devastating outcomes with sensitivity and legal acumen.
Dram Shop and Catastrophic Injury Experience: Lupe Peña’s background in dram shop liability cases (holding establishments accountable for over-serving alcohol) is directly applicable to hazing cases involving forced alcohol consumption. His expertise in catastrophic injury cases ensures we pursue maximum damages for life-altering injuries.

Our Client-Centered Approach: Crisp County Families Are Our Priority

We Come to Crisp County: Our physical offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, but distance is not a barrier to justice. We travel to Crisp County, and wherever else needed, for depositions, client meetings, and trials. We also offer remote consultations via phone and video, ensuring Crisp County families can access our expertise conveniently.
Se Habla Español: Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our bilingual staff ensures that language is never a barrier to justice for Hispanic families in Crisp County or anywhere across the nation.
Contingency Fees – Zero Upfront Cost for Crisp County Families: We understand that the financial burden of hazing-related medical care and lost income is immense. We take hazing cases on contingency, meaning you pay $0 upfront. We only get paid when we win your case. This levels the playing field, allowing any Crisp County family to fight powerful fraternities and universities without financial risk.
Aggressive Legal Philosophy: Our philosophy is to “outwork, outsmart, and outfight” the other side. This means more preparation, more investigation, and relentless advocacy. We keep our clients informed at every step, ensuring full transparency in what can be a confusing and traumatic process.
Real Emotional Investment: What truly sets us apart is our genuine passion for hazing victims. We’ve witnessed the devastating impact of hazing firsthand. We fight for Crisp County families not just because it’s our job, but because we believe in holding institutions accountable and preventing future tragedies. We see your child as a person, not a paycheck.

Social Proof: What Our Clients Say

Our commitment is reflected in our client testimonials and our outstanding 4.9-star rating from over 250 reviews on Google My Business. Our clients consistently praise our communication, aggressive advocacy, and the empathetic way we treat them:

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client that’s caught in the middle of many other cases. You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” — Chad Harris (Emphasizes our family-first approach)
“If you’re ever in a car accident, I highly recommend you give them a call 10/10. The staff provides great customer service and show they are a firm that cares about their clients! Attorney Manginello & Leonore were both extremely nice, helpful, and made sure I was informed throughout the entire process. They’re the best!” — Devin Hebert (Highlights care and communication)
“Ralph didn’t have me driving out to court just to reschedule it like my last lawyer did. He saved me a lot of time, money, and very prompt on answering any and all questions I had. Case dismissed.” — Kristyn Hinchliffe (Illustrates efficiency and results)
“What seemed to be a crisis for my family and I with no way out on how to fight or solve our case, Atty. Manginello stepped in and absolutely fought for us. A true PITT BULL and fighter. He don’t play!” — Chad Harris (Reinforces Ralph’s aggressive advocacy)
“Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions and concerns throughout the entire process until the end.” — Chelsea Martinez (Showcases Lupe Peña’s client dedication)

These testimonials underscore our reputation for being aggressive advocates who genuinely care about our clients and achieve significant results—the very qualities Crisp County families will need when facing a hazing crisis.

What to Do Right Now for Crisp County Hazing Victims

Hazing incidents are legal emergencies. The immediate aftermath is critical, and the steps you take (or fail to take) can significantly impact your legal case. For families in Crisp County, acting quickly and strategically is paramount to securing justice and compensation.

Immediate Steps After a Hazing Incident: Your 2AM Checklist

If your child has been subjected to hazing, especially resulting in injury or illness, follow these steps to protect their rights and build a strong legal case:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention: This is the absolute priority. If there are any physical injuries, signs of illness (like Leonel’s brown urine), or psychological distress, get professional medical help immediately. Call 911 if necessary.
- Why it matters: Your child’s health is paramount. Additionally, medical records provide crucial documentation of injuries, establishing a timeline and causal link to the hazing. Delays in seeking treatment can be used by defense attorneys to argue the injuries were not severe or not hazing-related.
Preserve ALL Evidence (Digital, Physical, Testimonial):
- Digital Communications: Save every text message, GroupMe chat, Snapchat, Instagram DM, email, or social media post related to the hazing. Do not delete anything. Screenshots are invaluable. Use your phone to document. Here’s a video that explains how: Using Your Phone to Document Evidence.
- Photos/Videos: Take clear photographs of any injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, swelling) at all stages of healing. Document the location where the hazing occurred if possible, including fraternity houses, basements, fields, or private residences. If there are any videos of the hazing itself, secure them safely.
- Documents: Collect any “pledge manuals,” schedules, rules, or communications distributed by the organization.
- Witness Information: Get the names, phone numbers, and contact information of other pledges who witnessed or experienced similar hazing, as well as any other bystanders.
- Medical Records & Bills: Keep meticulous records of all doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, therapy sessions, and all corresponding medical bills.
- Academic/Financial Records: Document any academic impact (missed classes, dropped grades), lost wages from missed work or internships, or tuition/fees for semesters disrupted by the hazing.
DO NOT Communicate with the Fraternity/Sorority or University Alone:
- Avoid Contact: Do not talk to fraternity members, officers, alumni, university administrators, or their lawyers without your own legal counsel present. They are not on your side; they will try to gather information to protect their institution and could inadvertently damage your case.
- No Recorded Statements: Absolutely refuse to give any recorded statements to insurance adjusters or university officials. What you say can and will be used against you.
- Do Not Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, university, or their representatives without first consulting with an attorney. You could unknowingly waive critical legal rights.
Stay Off Social Media: Refrain from posting anything about the hazing incident, your injuries, or your emotional state on any social media platform. Defense attorneys will scour your profiles for anything that can contradict your claims (e.g., photos showing you smiling or participating in activities). Also, avoid deleting old posts, as this can be construed as destruction of evidence.
Contact Attorney911 Immediately: Hazing cases have strict deadlines (statutes of limitations). In Texas, this is typically two years from the date of injury or death, but critical evidence disappears quickly.
- Why sooner is better: The sooner you involve us, the quicker we can send preservation letters, interview witnesses while memories are fresh, and gather evidence before it vanishes. Our video, Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?, emphasizes this urgency.
- Free Consultation: Your first consultation with us is free. There’s no risk in reaching out to understand your legal options.

Overcoming Common Obstacles for Crisp County Victims

We understand that victims and families in Crisp County may face unique challenges in the wake of hazing:

Fear of Retribution/Social Ostracism: Leonel Bermudez himself was “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution.” This is a common and legitimate fear. We implement strict protocols to protect our clients’ privacy and safety.
“Ghost Rush” Status: If your child was a “ghost rush” or not yet officially enrolled when hazed, know that hazing laws and civil liability often extend to prospective members.
Distance to Our Offices: While our core offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve Crisp County families and victims nationwide. We utilize video consultations, phone calls, and, when necessary, travel to directly meet with clients and conduct investigations.
Language Barriers: Our team includes bilingual staff and Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, ensuring clear communication and full legal support for Crisp County’s diverse communities.

Timeliness is Critical: The Statute of Limitations

In Texas, and many other states, you generally have two years from the date of injury (or death, in wrongful death cases) to file a lawsuit. While this may seem like a long time, hazing cases are complex. Evidence must be gathered, witnesses interviewed, and legal strategies developed—all of which take time. Missing the deadline means losing your right to seek justice and compensation forever.

Leonel Bermudez’s case is a prime example of quick action: hospitalized on November 6, 2025, and our lawsuit filed by November 21, 2025. This immediate response is crucial for critical evidence preservation and maximizing legal recourse.

Contact Attorney911: Your Legal Emergency Lawyers™

Crisp County families, if your child has suffered due to hazing, you are not alone. The nightmares Leonel Bermudez endured are happening across the country, but you have powerful legal options. We are currently leading the fight against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston, demanding accountability for egregious hazing. We bring that same fierce dedication and expertise directly to Crisp County.

You have legal rights. We are fighting this fight right now – and we’ll fight for Crisp County victims too.

CRISP COUNTY FAMILIES: CALL NOW — FREE CONSULTATION

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

This hotline is available 24/7 for hazing emergencies. We understand that these moments are terrifying, and we’re here to provide immediate, expert assistance.

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

We work on CONTINGENCY for Crisp County families – you pay $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless YOU get paid. This ensures that access to justice is never limited by your ability to pay.

We Serve Crisp County Hazing Victims — And Hazing Victims Nationwide

While our physical offices are based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, hazing knows no geographical boundaries. It occurs at colleges and universities in Crisp County, across Georgia, and throughout the entire United States. We are equipped and ready to evaluate and litigate your Crisp County case, regardless of location, through:

Federal Court Authority: Our admission to the U.S. District Court allows us to pursue cases in federal jurisdiction, which can be crucial when dealing with national organizations.
Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York, providing strategic advantages in national fraternity litigation.
Remote Consultations: We offer convenient video and phone consultations, ensuring Crisp County families can meet with us from the comfort of their home.
Travel Commitment: We travel to Crisp County for crucial depositions, client meetings, and trials when necessary. Distance is never a barrier to pursuing justice.

Hazing is not limited to Greek life. We represent victims of hazing in:

Fraternities and sororities at institutions near Crisp County, such as Albany State University, South Georgia State College, Middle Georgia State University, or even larger universities in Georgia like UGA and Georgia Tech.
Sports teams, marching bands, ROTC programs, clubs, and other student organizations at Crisp County schools and any other educational institution across the nation.

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

Leonel Bermudez was not the only one subjected to abuse. Other pledges were affected, with one even losing consciousness. If you or someone you know was part of the Pi Kappa Phi hazing at the University of Houston, you have rights too. We know there are more victims.

As Lupe Peña so 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.”

Call us. Let’s bring them ALL to justice. This is your chance to turn your painful experience into meaningful change, preventing others from suffering the same fate.

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