If you are reading this, your family in Dawson County may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to find friendship and community at college, perhaps forging lifelong bonds. Instead, they were subjected to brutal hazing, an experience that has left them traumatized, injured, or worse. We understand your fear, your anger, and your desperate search for help at all hours. We are here to help families in Dawson County fight back against the fraternities, sororities, and universities that allowed this to happen.

We see you, Dawson County families. We are Attorney911, and we are national leaders in hazing litigation. We are actively fighting this battle right now in the courts of Texas, and we are ready to bring that fight to Dawson County and beyond.

The Nightmare in Houston: A Warning for Dawson County Families

What happened to Leonel Bermudez in Houston is a stark, current, and terrifying example of modern hazing. It is a story that every parent in Dawson County should hear, not to scare you, but to inform you of the very real dangers your children face at universities across America, including those many Dawson County students attend in Georgia and beyond. This is why we are fighting so aggressively in court right now.

In November 2025, we, the attorneys at Attorney911, filed a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members. Our client, Leonel Bermudez, was a “ghost rush” – a prospective member who wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet. He planned to transfer there for the upcoming semester. What these individuals and institutions did to someone who wasn’t even a registered student is a testament to the reckless indifference that fuels hazing.

Leonel accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi on September 16, 2025. What followed were weeks of systematic abuse, torture, and degradation that culminated in a harrowing incident on November 3. He was admitted to the hospital, where he spent three nights and four days battling severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. He was passing brown urine, a clear sign his muscles were breaking down from extreme physical exertion. This is not a story from a distant past; this is happening today, right in our backyard, and it could happen at any institution where fraternities operate, including those where your children in Dawson County might study.

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

Lupe Pena, our associate attorney, emphasized to ABC13 the core principle driving our firm’s aggressive approach: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

The Hazing Activities: Beyond Pranks to Torture

The details of Leonel’s hazing are not isolated incidents but a pattern of abuse tragically common in Greek life. This is what modern hazing looks like, far removed from the harmless “pranks” many parents might imagine:

• Simulated Waterboarding: As reported by KHOU 11, Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” sprayed directly in his face as he performed calisthenics. Houston Public Media rightly pointed out that “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.” This is not a game; this is cruel, inhumane treatment.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was made to consume large quantities of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. Then, in a horrific display of degradation, he was forced to continue running sprints through the vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: The November 3rd incident, which led to his collapse, involved over 100 push-ups, more than 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls – all while reciting the fraternity creed under threat of immediate expulsion. He was exercised until he literally could not stand without assistance. The Houston Chronicle also reported he was “being struck with wooden paddles.”
• Psychological Torture and Humiliation: Leonel was forced to carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature at all times. Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. He was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather. These acts are designed to break a person down mentally and emotionally, inflicting lasting psychological scars.
• Sleep Deprivation and Exhaustion: He was coerced into driving fraternity members during early morning hours, leading to significant exhaustion, which contributed to his physical and mental breakdown.

This systematic abuse wasn’t a one-off. On October 13, another pledge was hog-tied during a hazing session. Just two days later, on October 15, a pledge actually lost consciousness and collapsed during a forced workout, requiring other pledges to elevate his legs until he revived. Despite these clear warning signs, the hazing continued, demonstrating a profound and reckless indifference to human life and safety.

The Medical Aftermath: A Body Breaking Down

Leonel Bermudez’s body responded to this abuse by breaking down. His diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis means his muscle tissue rapidly deteriorated, releasing harmful proteins into his bloodstream. This directly led to acute kidney failure, a life-threatening condition where the kidneys can no longer filter waste from the blood. The sight of his “brown urine” was a terrifying indicator of this internal destruction. He required immediate, intensive medical care, spending four critical days hospitalized. While he survived, the long-term risk of permanent kidney damage remains a serious concern for his future. This is the same medical condition Attorney911 has successfully litigated before, and Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases.

Institutional Indifference: They Knew, They Failed

The University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters both issued statements after the lawsuit was filed, attempting to control the narrative. We know these words are carefully crafted to protect their reputations, but when decoded, they reveal a damning truth: they knew.

Pi Kappa Phi National’s statement confirmed they closed their Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025, “following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This closure occurred seven days before our lawsuit was even filed, demonstrating clear consciousness of wrongdoing and an attempt to get ahead of the inevitable legal action. Their patronizing phrase, “we look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time,” speaks volumes about their lack of genuine remorse and the belief that they can simply lie low and resume operations. Their statement also proudly declared they are “on more than 150 campuses across America,” starkly highlighting the systemic nature of the problem.

The University of Houston’s spokesperson called the events “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of our community standards,” and noted that “any individual found responsible for hazing will face disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion and potential criminal charges.” While these words seem strong, they come too late for Leonel. The University owned the fraternity house where some of this hazing occurred. They had direct oversight. Furthermore, the University of Houston has a documented history of hazing problems, including a $1 million lawsuit in 2017 involving a Pi Kappa Alpha pledge who suffered a lacerated spleen. They knew. They had been warned. And they still failed to protect Leonel Bermudez.

This landmark case, unfolding right now in Houston, serves as a critical warning for Dawson County families. Hazing is not a distant problem; it is a present threat. The same national fraternities that operate in Texas also have chapters at universities in and around Dawson County. The same institutional negligence observed at the University of Houston can exist at campuses where your children attend. If your child is being hazed in Dawson County or anywhere your family sends them for higher education, we will fight for you with the same aggression, data-driven strategy, and unwavering commitment to accountability that we are bringing to Leonel’s case.

What Hazing Truly Looks Like: Beyond Misconceptions

When we talk about hazing, many parents in Dawson County might envision harmless pranks or mild inconveniences, perhaps a little lighthearted teasing or a late-night scavenger hunt. That image couldn’t be further from the brutal reality our clients face. Hazing today is often premeditated abuse, designed to break down individuals, instill fear, and enforce absolute obedience through physical, psychological, and even sexual degradation. It is not “boys being boys” or innocent “tradition.” It is a calculated act of violence and control that causes real, lasting harm.

Our case involving Leonel Bermudez tragically illustrates this evolution of hazing into outright torture. Here’s a closer look at the types of hazing activities and their devastating consequences:

Physical Abuse as a “Tradition”:
What colleges and fraternities often label as “physical challenges” or “team-building exercises” are, in fact, often brutal assaults. In Leonel’s case, this included:

• Extreme Calisthenics: The forced performance of over 500 squats, 100 push-ups, miles of running “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and 100-yard crawls pushed him beyond human limits, resulting in severe muscle breakdown.
• Paddling and Beatings: Being struck with wooden paddles is a direct assault, leaving physical and psychological scars.
• Exposure: Forcing students to strip to their underwear in cold weather and spraying them with hoses, as happened to Leonel, is a dangerous form of exposure that can lead to hypothermia and further humiliation.

Forced Consumption: A Deadly Ritual:
Many hazing incidents involve forced or excessive consumption, often of alcohol, but also of food or other substances to the point of illness. Leonel’s experience included:

• Eating Until Vomiting: Milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns were forced upon him until he vomited. This isn’t just unpleasant; it’s a deliberate act of humiliation that can have severe health consequences, including aspiration.
• Forced Alcohol Consumption: While Leonel’s case highlighted forced food, many hazing incidents involve binge drinking, leading to alcohol poisoning. This was the cause of death for Andrew Coffey, a Pi Kappa Phi pledge at Florida State.

Psychological and Emotional Torture: The Invisible Wounds:
The deepest scars from hazing are often unseen. These tactics are designed to erode self-esteem, break loyalty to outside influences, and create dependency on the group. Consider:

• Humiliation and Degradation: Being made to carry sexually suggestive objects, hog-tied, or forced to lie in your own vomit are profoundly dehumanizing acts that inflict severe mental anguish.
• Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to stay awake for extended periods, or wake up at odd hours for tasks, weakens their mental and physical resilience, making them more susceptible to manipulation.
• Isolation and Intimidation: Threats of physical punishment or expulsion from the fraternity for non-compliance create an environment of fear and control, isolating the victim from potential help. Leonel’s own fear of “retribution” for speaking out is direct evidence of this psychological impact.

The Catastrophic Consequences:
These activities are directly linked to life-altering and often fatal outcomes:

• Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure: As Leonel Bermudez experienced, extreme physical exertion can lead to muscle tissue breakdown, poisoning the kidneys.
• Alcohol Poisoning: A leading cause of hazing deaths, often from forced binge drinking, as seen in the cases of Andrew Coffey, Max Gruver, and Timothy Piazza.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From falls, beatings, or other physical assaults.
• Hypothermia/Heatstroke: From forced exposure to extreme weather conditions.
• Psychological Disorders: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation are common long-term consequences, often overlooked but devastating to a young person’s future.

For Dawson County parents, it’s crucial to understand that these aren’t isolated incidents of bad judgment; they are often systemic practices embedded within certain Greek organizations, sanctioned implicitly or explicitly by a culture of secrecy and misplaced “tradition.” The universities and national organizations often look the other way until a tragedy forces their hand, and even then, their initial reaction is usually to protect themselves, not the victim. That is why we exist.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Entity Accountable

When hazing leaves a student injured or dead, it’s not just a few “bad apples” who are to blame. The reality is that multiple layers of individuals and institutions often bear responsibility, from the individual perpetrators to the top leadership of national organizations and universities. Our strategy at Attorney911 is to cast a wide net, identifying and pursuing every possible liable party to ensure comprehensive accountability and maximum compensation for victims and their families in Dawson County.

In the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi case, our $10 million lawsuit specifically targets a multitude of defendants, demonstrating our comprehensive approach:

• The Local Chapter (Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu): This is the direct perpetrator, the entity that organized and executed the hazing activities. Their members, including the chapter president and pledgemaster, were directly involved in planning and carrying out the abuse. Our lawsuit names these specific officers and other participating members.
• The National Organization (Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc.): National fraternities like Pi Kappa Phi, with over 150 chapters across America, have a profound responsibility to oversee their local chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, and ensure member safety. In Leonel’s case, we allege the national organization failed to do so, despite knowing about a “hazing crisis” and having a student die in one of their chapters (Andrew Coffey in 2017) just eight years prior. These national bodies have millions in assets and liability insurance, making them a crucial target for meaningful recovery.
• The Housing Corporation (Beta Nu Housing Corporation): Often, a separate corporate entity owns and manages the physical fraternity house. If hazing occurs on their property, they can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment and for allowing dangerous activities to occur on their premises.
• The University (University of Houston and UH Board of Regents): Universities have a legal and moral obligation to protect their students, especially when they own or control the property where hazing happens. The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where much of Leonel’s hazing occurred. Despite a prior student hospitalization from hazing on their campus in 2017, the university failed to implement adequate safeguards. Their failure to supervise Greek life, enforce policies, and create a safe campus environment makes them directly complicit.
• Individual Members and Alumni: This includes the fraternity president, the pledgemaster, and various current and former members who either participated in, directed, or enabled the hazing. Crucially, our lawsuit also names a former member and his spouse, because some of the hazing sessions occurred at their off-campus residence. This highlights that liability can extend beyond active college students to anyone who facilitates or allows hazing to occur on their property. These individuals can be held personally responsible for their actions.

Why This Multi-Defendant Approach Matters for Dawson County Families:

Hazing cases are complex. The institutions involved — national fraternities and universities — possess vast resources, legal teams, and insurance carriers dedicated to minimizing their liability. They will invariably try to deflect blame, point fingers at the “bad apples,” and argue that they couldn’t possibly know what was happening behind closed doors.

Our firm’s comprehensive approach dismantles these defenses by:

1. Connecting the Dots: We link the actions of individual members to the failures of chapter leadership, national oversight, and university administration.
2. Exposing Systemic Negligence: Hazing is rarely an isolated incident. We prove that it’s often a foreseeable outcome of a permissive culture, inadequate policies, and a lack of enforcement.
3. Targeting “Deep Pockets”: While individual perpetrators may have limited personal assets, national fraternities, housing corporations, and universities typically have substantial insurance coverage and financial resources. Our goal is to ensure your family receives maximum compensation, and that means going after every entity capable of providing it.
4. Applying Pressure for Change: By holding all responsible parties accountable, we create a powerful incentive for these institutions to fundamentally change their practices, protecting future generations of students from the horrors of hazing.

For Dawson County parents, understanding who can be held responsible is the first step toward justice. Whether it’s a prominent university in Georgia, a local college, or any institution across the nation where your child attends, we have the expertise and the commitment to pursue every liable party.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof

For families in Dawson County grappling with the aftermath of hazing, one of the most pressing questions is often, “Can we truly get justice? Can this firm actually make a difference?” The answer is a resounding yes. Our $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is not an ambition; it is a demand backed by a powerful history of precedent-setting multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in hazing cases across America. These cases prove that when victims and their families stand up, justice can be served, and institutions will pay.

We don’t just talk about hazing litigation; we are currently engaged in a live, high-stakes battle. Our $10 million demand in the Leonel Bermudez case is directly supported by recent, similar tragedies that have resulted in massive payouts:

• Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha, 2021) — $10.1 Million+: Stone Foltz died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha hazing ritual. His family ultimately secured over $10.1 million in settlements, with $2.9 million coming from Bowling Green State University and $7.2 million from the Pi Kappa Alpha national organization and individuals. This case is particularly relevant to Leonel’s, as our demand for $10 million is directly in line with this outcome, even though Leonel survived. The egregious nature of his injuries and the pattern of institutional failures against Andrew Coffey justify this figure. Furthermore, in December 2024, a criminal judgment against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, ordered him to personally pay $6.5 million. This demonstrates how aggressively courts are punishing individual perpetrators.
• Maxwell Gruver (Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta, 2017) — $6.1 Million Verdict: Max Gruver died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume excessive alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta hazing event. His family won a $6.1 million jury verdict, and his death spurred the creation of the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana. This shows that juries are willing to award millions for hazing deaths, and their verdicts can lead to broader legislative change.
• Timothy Piazza (Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi, 2017) — $110 Million+ (Estimated): Timothy Piazza died after consuming 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi hazing event. He fell down stairs, suffering a traumatic brain injury, and fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling for help. The civil settlement in this case, though confidential, is widely estimated to be over $110 million, making it one of the largest hazing outcomes in U.S. history. Security camera footage capturing the hours of neglect played a crucial role. His death also led to Pennsylvania’s stringent Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.
• Andrew Coffey (Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi, 2017) — Same Fraternity, Prior Death: Andrew Coffey, a pledge of Pi Kappa Phi (the same national fraternity involved in Leonel’s case), died in 2017 from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon. This case, eight years before Leonel’s hospitalization, proves that Pi Kappa Phi National had actual notice of deadly hazing within its ranks and still failed to prevent such abuses. This tragic history directly supports our argument for punitive damages.
• Adam Oakes (Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi, 2021) — $4 Million+ Settlement: Adam Oakes died from alcohol poisoning during a Delta Chi hazing event. His family’s lawsuit, originally seeking $28 million, settled for over $4 million in October 2024, with part of the settlement funding the “Love Like Adam” Foundation and leading to “Adam’s Law” in Virginia.
• UT Austin Sigma Chi (2025) — Pending Death Lawsuit: Tragically, in the very same week our Bermudez lawsuit was filed, another hazing death lawsuit emerged in Texas, this time against Sigma Chi at UT Austin, involving a freshman who died by suicide after “horrific abuse.” This underscores the pervasive and deadly nature of hazing even in our state.

Why These Precedents Are Pivotal for Dawson County Families:

1. Validating the Demand: These multi-million dollar outcomes demonstrate that our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is not arbitrary but squarely aligned with what families facing hazing-related death or severe injury have successfully recovered.
2. Proving Institutional Accountability: In virtually every major case, both the national fraternity and the university have been held financially responsible, often paying millions. This reinforces our strategy to target every layer of culpability for Dawson County victims.
3. Foreseeability: The extensive record of hazing deaths and serious injuries makes it impossible for fraternities and universities to claim ignorance. The harm is demonstrably foreseeable, strengthening claims of negligence and deliberate indifference.
4. Punitive Damages: The egregious conduct in hazing, consistently resulting in severe injury or death, often warrants punitive damages. These damages, designed to punish wrongdoers and deter similar behavior, are a significant component of many of these multi-million dollar awards.
5. Driving Change: Beyond monetary compensation, these landmark cases have fueled legislative action, leading to stricter anti-hazing laws (like the Max Gruver Act and Timothy Piazza Law) and greater university oversight. Your Dawson County case can contribute to this critical wave of societal change.

For Dawson County parents whose children have been victimized by hazing, these precedents offer powerful reassurance: justice is attainable, and institutions that prioritize “tradition” over human safety can and will be held accountable. We are the firm that knows how to leverage this history to fight for your family’s future.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights

For Dawson County families, navigating the legal landscape after a hazing incident can feel overwhelming. Many wonder if their child has any real recourse, especially when powerful institutions are involved. We want to be clear: under Texas law, and similar statutes across many states, your child is protected, and those responsible for their abuse can be held accountable, criminally and civilly.

While our firm is headquartered in Houston, our expertise in hazing litigation extends to Dawson County and nationwide. We are deeply familiar with the Texas Education Code’s anti-hazing provisions (Sections 37.151 through 37.157), which provide a robust framework for student protection.

Key Provisions of Texas Hazing Law (Education Code § 37.151-37.157):

• Broad Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Texas law defines hazing expansively. It includes “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus…that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student” for the purpose of joining or maintaining membership in an organization. This includes physical brutality, sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, calisthenics that cause unreasonable risk, forced consumption of food, alcohol, or other substances, and activities that involve a violation of the Penal Code.
  • Application to Leonel Bermudez: His experience of physical abuse, forced eating, waterboarding, extreme calisthenics leading to rhabdomyolysis, sleep deprivation, and exposure to cold all fall squarely within this definition.
• Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Hazing is not just a university policy violation; it’s a crime in Texas.
  • Simple hazing is a Class B Misdemeanor (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine).
  • Hazing causing serious bodily injury (like Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure) is a Class A Misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail, $4,000 fine).
  • Hazing causing death is a State Jail Felony (180 days to 2 years state jail, $10,000 fine).
  • Even failing to report hazing with firsthand knowledge is a Class B Misdemeanor.
  • The University of Houston’s own spokesperson acknowledged “potential criminal charges” in Leonel’s case, confirming the criminal dimension of these acts.
• Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Organizations can be penalized up to $10,000, denied the right to operate, and forced to forfeit property if they condone or encourage hazing, or if their officers, members, pledges, or alumni participate in hazing. This applies directly to the local chapter and, often, the national organization.
• Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is one of the most crucial protections for hazing victims. The law 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.” Fraternities and sororities often try to shift blame, claiming victims “chose to participate” or “could have said no.” Texas law unequivocally rejects this argument. Under the law, you cannot consent to be abused or assaulted. This is a powerful tool in dismantling the defense’s strategy.
• University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Universities are legally mandated to report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor. This creates a paper trail and holds institutions accountable for tracking these incidents.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Prosecution:

While criminal charges can punish perpetrators, civil lawsuits are how Dawson County victims and their families secure financial compensation for their immense suffering and losses. Our legal team pursues a range of civil claims, including:

• Negligence: This is the bedrock of most personal injury claims. We establish that the university, national fraternity, local chapter, and individual members had a duty of care to protect students, they breached that duty through their actions or inactions (like allowing hazing), and this breach directly caused the injuries and damages.
• Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (like the UH fraternity house), or by a housing corporation or even a private residence, those property owners can be held liable for failing to provide a safe environment.
• Negligent Supervision: National organizations and universities have a duty to supervise local chapters and student activities. Their failure to do so, especially with knowledge of prior incidents (like Andrew Coffey’s death or the 2017 UH hazing), constitutes negligent supervision.
• Assault and Battery: Individual participants who physically harmed a student can be sued directly for assault (threat of harm) and battery (unwanted physical contact).
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: Hazing that rises to the level of “outrageous conduct” and causes severe emotional distress (like PTSD, anxiety, or depression) can lead to claims for intentional infliction of emotional distress. Waterboarding, as a form of torture, clearly meets this threshold.

Why This Matters to Dawson County Families:

The Texas legal framework provides robust protections and avenues for accountability. It allows us to pursue multiple defendants, establish clear violations, and counter common defenses. Even if your child’s hazing occurred outside of Texas, most states have similar anti-hazing laws and civil liability theories that can be applied. Furthermore, our federal court authority means we can pursue cases in federal jurisdiction, which can be critical when national organizations are involved.

This is not just about punishment; it’s about justice. It’s about ensuring your child’s medical bills are paid, their lost education and future earnings are recuperated, and their pain and suffering are recognized. It’s about sending a clear message that hazing will not be tolerated, and those who enable it will pay a steep price.

Why Attorney911: Your Champion in the Fight Against Hazing

Choosing the right legal representation after a hazing incident in Dawson County is perhaps one of the most critical decisions your family will make. You need a firm that not only understands the complexities of hazing litigation but also possesses the experience, dedication, and strategic insight to go up against powerful institutions like national fraternities and universities. At Attorney911, we are that firm.

We bring a unique blend of qualifications and a track record of aggressive advocacy that sets us apart, especially in the nuanced battle against hazing:

1. Unmatched Experience That Matters:

• 25+ Years of Courtroom Battle (Ralph P. Manginello): Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, is a seasoned litigator with over a quarter-century of experience in the toughest courtrooms across Texas and in federal courts. This isn’t theoretical knowledge; it’s battle-tested expertise. For Dawson County families, this means having a lawyer who knows how to navigate the legal system, challenge opponents, and present a compelling case to a jury. His experience in multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation, such as the BP Texas City Explosion, demonstrates his capability to take on massive corporate defendants – a skill directly applicable to confronting national fraternities and well-funded universities.
• Insider Knowledge from the Defense (Lupe Eleno Peña): Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm. This means he knows the insurance companies’ playbook inside and out. He understands their strategies for valuing claims, delaying payouts, and attempting to deny liability. Now, every tactic they taught him to use against victims, he uses for our clients. This “unfair advantage” of having former insurance defense attorneys on your side is invaluable for Dawson County families seeking full compensation.
• Deep Hazing-Specific Expertise: We are not general personal injury lawyers casually dabbling in hazing cases. We have specific experience with rhabdomyolysis hazing cases and have handled fraternity litigation, including those related to Kappa Sigma and Texas A&M. Our current $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is proof that we are actively leading the charge in this niche but critical area of law. We are fighting this fight right now.

2. Nationwide Reach, Local Dedication:

• Federal Court Authority: With attorneys admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, we have the authority to pursue complex hazing cases in federal court. This is crucial when dealing with national fraternities and universities that may have operations across state lines. This allows us to represent Dawson County families regardless of where the hazing incident occurred.
• Dual-State Bar Admissions: Ralph’s admission to both the Texas and New York State Bars provides a strategic advantage, particularly in litigation against national fraternities often headquartered in various states.
• We Come to You: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, distance is never a barrier to justice. We offer remote video consultations for Dawson County families and our attorneys are prepared to travel to Dawson County for depositions, client meetings, and trials as needed. Your location will not prevent you from receiving top-tier representation.
• Se Habla Español: We proudly offer bilingual staff and services, ensuring that Spanish-speaking families in Dawson County can communicate effectively and receive comprehensive legal support without language barriers. Lupe Peña, a third-generation Texan and fluent Spanish speaker, strongly embodies this commitment.

3. Data-Driven Strategy & Aggressive Advocacy:

• The Hazing Intelligence Database: We don’t guess who is responsible; we know. We maintain one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations in Texas, tracking over 125 IRS-registered entities, including EINs, legal names, addresses, house corporations, and alumni chapters. This allows us to identify and target every liable entity, from the individual pledgemaster to the national fraternity’s insurance carriers, from day one.
• Unwavering Aggression: Ralph P. Manginello founded Attorney911 to provide “immediate, aggressive, and professional help.” When powerful institutions prioritize their reputation over student safety, we meet their resistance with relentless advocacy. As Ralph’s client testimonial states, “He is a true PITT BULL and fighter. He don’t play!”
• Transparent Communication: We know this is a traumatic time. We commit to keeping Dawson County families informed at every stage of their case, ensuring you understand the strategy, timeline, and what to expect. Client testimonials consistently praise our communication and responsiveness.

4. Compassion and Contingency:

• True Empathy: We are parents too. We understand the profound emotional toll a hazing incident takes on a family. We approach every case with genuine empathy, treating your child as a person, not a case file. “You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such,” as one client review states.
• No Upfront Cost: We take all hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means Dawson County families pay absolutely nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This removes financial barriers, allowing every family to access premier legal representation, regardless of their current economic situation.

For Dawson County families whose child has been injured or killed by hazing, you are facing a fight against well-resourced, legally protected opponents. You need a champion who has been in this fight before, knows the enemy’s tactics, and is utterly committed to your cause. You need Attorney911. We are aggressively fighting hazing right now, and we are ready to fight for you.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Dawson County Families

If your child has been subjected to hazing in Dawson County or at any college nationwide, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. It can be a confusing, frightening, and emotionally overwhelming time, but taking swift and decisive action can be instrumental in protecting your child’s legal rights and building a strong case. We’ve seen situations where crucial evidence disappears within hours or days, so acting quickly is paramount.

Here are the immediate steps we advise every Dawson County family to take:

1. Prioritize Medical Attention, Immediately:

• Seek Care Now: Your child’s health is the absolute priority. If they have physical injuries, severe pain, or any concerning symptoms, get immediate medical attention at an emergency room or urgent care facility.
• Document Everything: Be explicit with medical professionals that the injuries are a result of hazing. Ensure all symptoms, observations (like Leonel’s brown urine or severe muscle pain), and diagnoses are thoroughly documented in their medical records.
• Consider Psychological Support: Hazing inflicts deep emotional wounds. Seek out mental health professionals (therapists, counselors) who can provide support and document the psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression). This is crucial for both healing and evidence.
• Save All Records: Keep every piece of paper – hospital bills, doctor’s notes, prescriptions, therapy invoices, and any referrals.

2. Preserve All Evidence – Do Not Delete Anything!:

• Digital Communications: This is a goldmine of evidence in hazing cases.
  • Text Messages: Screenshot and save every text message related to the hazing, including group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, etc.). Do not delete messages, as this can be seen as destruction of evidence.
  • Social Media: Take screenshots of any relevant posts, photos, or videos from fraternity/sorority accounts, other members, or even your child’s own account (before they might be pressured to delete).
  • Emails: Save all emails related to invitations, rules, or communications about the organization.
• Photos and Videos:
  • Injuries: Take clear, well-lit photos of any visible injuries as soon as possible, and continue to document their healing process over time.
  • Location: If safe to do so, discreetly photograph or video the location where the hazing occurred – the fraternity house, specific rooms, outdoor areas, etc.
  • Hazing Objects: If any physical objects were used in the hazing (like paddles), document them if safely possible.
• Physical Evidence: Carefully save any clothing worn during the hazing, especially if it’s torn, soiled, or blood-stained.
• Witness Information: Collect names, phone numbers, and any contact information for other pledges, witnesses, former members, or anyone who might have observed the hazing or its aftermath. Even if they are afraid to speak up now, their contact information is vital.
• Fraternity/University Documents: Keep any pledge manuals, schedules, rulebooks, or official communications from the fraternity or university that might provide context or contradict official policies.
• Financial Records: Document any expenses incurred due to the hazing – medical bills, lost wages from missed work, tuition or fees for a disrupted semester, or costs associated with changing schools.

3. Avoid Communication with the Other Side:

• Do Not Engage: Do not speak with any fraternity/sorority leadership, university administrators, or their attorneys without legal counsel present. They are not on your side and will attempt to gather information or coerce statements that can hurt your case.
• No Recorded Statements: Absolutely refuse to give any recorded statements to insurance adjusters or university representatives. They are trained to manipulate your words and find reasons to deny or minimize your claim.
• Do Not Sign Anything: Do not sign any documents, releases, or agreements provided by the fraternity, university, or their insurance companies. You could unknowingly waive critical legal rights.

4. Stay Off Social Media:

• Absolute Silence: Even if it feels natural to share your experience, absolutely do not post anything about the hazing incident on social media. Everything you post can and will be used against you by the defense to discredit your claims. This includes seemingly innocuous “I’m fine” posts.
• Check Privacy Settings: Ensure your child’s social media accounts are set to the highest privacy settings.

5. Contact a Qualified Hazing Litigation Attorney Immediately:

• Time is of the Essence: There is a two-year statute of limitations in most states for personal injury and wrongful death claims. Waiting too long means evidence can disappear, witness memories fade, and your legal rights can expire forever.
• Free, Confidential Consultation: We offer free, no-obligation consultations to Dawson County families. This allows you to understand your legal options without financial commitment. We will discuss the specifics of your case, explain the legal process, and answer your questions.
• We Work on Contingency: You pay nothing upfront. We cover all litigation costs and are only paid if we win your case. This eliminates any financial barrier to seeking justice.

Dawson County Families: You are not alone in this fight. The courage of Leonel Bermudez and his family in speaking out with our firm is already protecting countless other students. By taking these steps, you not only protect your child’s rights but also contribute to a larger movement for accountability and change.

Contact Us: Your Advocates for Justice in Dawson County

For families in Dawson County, the aftermath of a hazing incident can feel isolating and overwhelming. You might be experiencing a whirlwind of emotions – fear, anger, confusion, and a desperate need for answers and justice. We understand that finding the right legal partner is paramount, and we are here to offer the aggressive, experienced, and compassionate representation your family deserves.

We are Attorney911, and our commitment to fighting for hazing victims is unwavering. We are actively engaged in demanding accountability from powerful institutions, as demonstrated by our $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We don’t just talk about these cases; we live them, and we bring that real-world, current fighting experience directly to Dawson County families.

Dawson County Families: Don’t Wait. Call Us Now.

The window for seeking justice can be shorter than you think, with critical evidence disappearing and legal deadlines approaching. Every hour counts.

📞 IMMEDIATE HELP FOR DAWSON COUNTY HAZING VICTIMS: 1-888-ATTY-911

This 24/7 hotline is available for Dawson County hazing emergencies. Speak directly with our team who understands the urgency and sensitivity of your situation.

Email: ralph@atty911.com

Website: attorney911.com

Why Contact Us Now?

• Free, Confidential Consultation: Your initial consultation with us is absolutely free, with no obligation. This allows you to speak openly about your situation, understand your legal options, and learn how we can help, all without any financial commitment.
• No Upfront Fees (Contingency Basis): We believe that financial hardship should never prevent a family from pursuing justice. We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means we cover all upfront litigation costs, and you only pay us if and when we win your case. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.
• We Come To You (Virtually or In-Person): While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve Dawson County and hazing victims nationwide. We can conduct comprehensive video consultations with your family, making geographical distance a non-issue. For critical depositions, meetings, or trials, our attorneys are prepared to travel to Dawson County.
• Time is Critical: The statute of limitations (typically two years in most states) means there’s a deadline to file a lawsuit. Moreover, critical evidence – text messages, social media posts, witness memories – can vanish quickly. The sooner you contact us, the more effectively we can preserve evidence and build your case.

Our Promise to Dawson County Families:

• Aggressive Representation: We are fierce advocates. Our experience against corporate giants and our insider knowledge of insurance defense tactics enable us to aggressively pursue every liable party.
• Compassionate Support: We approach every case with empathy, understanding the immense pain your family is enduring. Your child is not just a case file; they are a young person whose future has been impacted, and we will fight for them as if they were our own.
• Comprehensive Accountability: We target all responsible parties – the individual perpetrators, the local chapter, the national organization, the housing corporation, and the university leadership – to ensure maximum compensation and lasting change.
• A Voice for the Voiceless: We protect victims who fear retribution. We ensure your story is heard and that those who sought to silence you are finally held accountable.

Dawson County parents, if your child’s college experience has turned into a nightmare of hazing, know that you do not have to endure this alone. We are ready to stand with you, fight for your child, and demand the justice they deserve.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today. Let us help you turn your family’s nightmare into a powerful fight for accountability.