🚨 Hazing Victims in DeKalb County: You Are Not Alone — We Will Fight for You

A fraternity near DeKalb County waterboarded a student until his kidneys failed. The same hazing happens at Northern Illinois University and other institutions across Illinois. If your child was hazed in DeKalb County, we will fight for your family with the same fury we’re bringing to our current $10 million hazing lawsuit in Texas.

🏥 What Happened in Texas — And What’s Happening in DeKalb County

In November 2025, a University of Houston fraternity pledge named Leonel Bermudez accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi. What followed was weeks of systematic abuse that hospitalized him for three nights and four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

The fraternity:

• Waterboarded him with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
• Forced him to perform 500 squats and 100+ pushups until he collapsed
• Struck him with wooden paddles
• Forced him to eat until he vomited, then made him keep running
• Forced another pledge to lie hog-tied with an object in his mouth for over an hour
• Forced pledges to strip to underwear in cold weather and spray them with hoses

Leonel Bermudez was so exhausted after one hazing session that he couldn’t stand without help and had to crawl up the stairs when he got home. His mother rushed him to the hospital when he started passing brown urine — a classic sign of muscle breakdown. He was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure and spent four days in the hospital.

This didn’t just happen in Texas. It happens in DeKalb County too.

Pi Kappa Phi and other national fraternities have chapters at Northern Illinois University and other schools across Illinois. The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client exist at DeKalb County fraternities and sororities. The same negligence exists at DeKalb County institutions.

If your child was hazed in DeKalb County, we will fight for your family with the same aggression we’re bringing to this case.

⚖️ Your Legal Rights as a DeKalb County Hazing Victim

Under Illinois law, hazing is illegal and institutions have a duty to protect students. If your child was hazed in DeKalb County, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills (past, present, and future)
• Pain and suffering (physical and emotional)
• Lost wages and future earning capacity
• Punitive damages (to punish the organization for egregious conduct)
• Educational disruption (tuition, scholarships, academic delays)

Illinois Anti-Hazing Act (720 ILCS 5/12C-50):

“A person commits hazing when he or she knowingly requires the performance of any act by a student or other person in a school, college, university, or other educational institution of this State, for the purpose of induction or admission into any group, organization, or society associated or connected with that institution, if the act is not sanctioned or authorized by that educational institution and the act results in bodily harm to any person.”

This law applies to all DeKalb County schools, including Northern Illinois University.

Consent is not a defense. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, Illinois law explicitly states that consent does not excuse hazing.

💰 Why DeKalb County Families Choose Attorney 911 for Hazing Cases

While we’re based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including DeKalb County. Here’s why DeKalb County families trust us:

1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now

We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical — we’re in the fight right now. DeKalb County families get the same aggressive representation.

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

Both of our attorneys — Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena — worked for insurance companies before switching sides to represent victims. We know exactly how they think, strategize, and try to deny claims. We’ve seen their playbook from the inside — now we use that knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for DeKalb County victims.

3. Federal Court Authority

We’re admitted to practice in U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas — which means we can pursue DeKalb County cases in federal court if needed. This is critical when suing national fraternities and universities.

4. Dual-State Bar Licenses

We’re licensed in Texas and New York — giving us strategic advantages when litigating against national organizations headquartered in different states.

5. Se Habla Español

We have bilingual staff and can serve Spanish-speaking DeKalb County families without language barriers.

6. We Will Travel to DeKalb County

For depositions, trials, and client meetings, our attorneys will travel to DeKalb County. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

7. Contingency Fee Representation — $0 Upfront

We understand that cost can be a prohibitive factor for DeKalb County families. We take hazing cases on contingency — you pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless and until you get paid.

8. Proven Track Record in High-Stakes Litigation

• BP Texas City Explosion — Involved in multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation
• Hundreds of DUI/DWI defenses — Exposed improperly maintained breathalyzer machines
• Federal civil rights litigation — U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals experience
• Multi-million dollar settlements — Recovered millions for clients across wrongful death, trucking, and car accident cases

9. We Know Greek Life Culture

Our attorneys understand the dynamics of fraternity and sorority life — the peer pressure, the power structures, the “traditions” that are actually abuse. We know how to expose the culture that enables hazing.

10. We Care About Your Child

We see your child as a person, not a paycheck. We’ve seen what fraternities do to kids. We’re fighting it in court right now. We will fight hard for your DeKalb County family because we truly care.

🏛️ Who We Sue for DeKalb County Hazing Victims

When your child is hazed in DeKalb County, we pursue every liable party, including:

In our current case, we’re suing:

• Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters
• The local UH chapter
• The housing corporation
• The University of Houston
• The UH Board of Regents
• The fraternity president
• The pledgemaster
• Multiple current and former members
• A former member and his spouse (hazing occurred at their residence)

We will pursue the same comprehensive strategy for DeKalb County families.

📋 What to Do If Your Child Was Hazed in DeKalb County

Immediate Steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention

   • Even if injuries seem minor, get checked immediately
   • Document everything with medical records
   • Rhabdomyolysis, alcohol poisoning, and other hazing injuries can have delayed symptoms

2. Preserve All Evidence

   • Photos/Videos: Document injuries, hazing locations, any physical evidence
   • Texts/Group Chats: Screenshot all communications about hazing (GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram, etc.)
   • Social Media: Preserve any posts or messages related to the incident
   • Witnesses: Get names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the hazing
   • Documents: Save pledge manuals, schedules, or any written materials given to your child

3. Do NOT Talk to the Organization

   • The fraternity/sorority, university, or their lawyers will try to control the narrative
   • Do not give statements without legal counsel present
   • Do not sign anything from the organization

4. Do NOT Post on Social Media

   • Anything you post can be used against you
   • Avoid discussing the incident online
   • Avoid posting photos that could be misinterpreted (e.g., party photos)

5. Contact Attorney 911 Immediately

   • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7)
   • Email: ralph@atty911.com
   • The 2-year statute of limitations in Illinois starts running immediately
   • Evidence disappears quickly — witnesses forget, messages get deleted, organizations destroy records

Why You Need a Lawyer Immediately:

• Insurance companies and universities have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim
• They will try to blame your child — “they consented,” “they knew the risks”
• They will offer lowball settlements before you know the full extent of your damages
• They will pressure you to sign away your rights before you understand your options

We level the playing field. Once you hire us:

• We handle all communication with the organization, university, and insurance companies
• We preserve evidence before it disappears
• We build your case with expert witnesses, medical records, and documentation
• We fight for maximum compensation for your child’s injuries

💔 Common Hazing Injuries in DeKalb County — And How We Prove Them

Hazing in DeKalb County causes physical, psychological, and financial harm. We pursue compensation for all of it.

📚 Precedent Cases: Hazing Victims Win Millions

These cases prove that hazing lawsuits win — and the same results are possible for DeKalb County families.

In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million for Leonel Bermudez. The same compensation is available for DeKalb County hazing victims.

🎯 Why DeKalb County Families Trust Attorney 911

We Understand Hazing Culture

We know the dynamics of Greek life — the peer pressure, the power structures, the “traditions” that are actually abuse. We know how to expose the culture that enables hazing.

We Know How to Fight National Organizations

National fraternities and universities have teams of lawyers and deep pockets. We have 25+ years of litigation experience and know how to take them on.

We’re Not Afraid to Go to Trial

Many personal injury lawyers settle for low amounts because they’re afraid of trial. We’re trial attorneys — we’re not afraid to take your DeKalb County hazing case to court if that’s what it takes to get justice.

We Travel to DeKalb County

For depositions, trials, and client meetings, our attorneys will travel to DeKalb County. We’re committed to serving DeKalb County families.

We Speak Spanish

We have bilingual staff and can serve Spanish-speaking DeKalb County families without language barriers.

We Work on Contingency — $0 Upfront

We understand that cost can be a barrier for DeKalb County families. We take hazing cases on contingency — you pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless you win.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions for DeKalb County Families

Q: My child was hazed at Northern Illinois University. Can you help us?

A: Yes. We serve hazing victims nationwide, including at Northern Illinois University and other DeKalb County schools. We’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing case and will bring the same aggressive representation to DeKalb County families.

Q: We’re worried about the cost of hiring a lawyer. How much does it cost?

A: $0 upfront. We work on contingency — you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee comes out of the settlement or verdict, so there’s no financial risk to your family.

Q: What if my child “consented” to the hazing?

A: Consent is not a defense. Under Illinois law, you cannot consent to hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the organization is still liable.

Q: How much is my DeKalb County hazing case worth?

Every case is different, but hazing cases typically settle for hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, depending on:

• The severity of injuries
• The egregiousness of the conduct
• Whether the university or national organization knew about prior hazing
• The impact on your child’s life and future

In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million. The same compensation is available for DeKalb County families.

Q: How long will my case take?

Most hazing cases settle within 12-24 months, but complex cases can take longer. We work as quickly as possible to get you the compensation you deserve.

Q: Will my child have to testify?

Possibly, but we prepare our clients thoroughly. Most cases settle before trial, so your child may never have to testify in court.

Q: What if the fraternity or university offers us a settlement?

Do not accept any settlement without consulting us first. Insurance companies and universities often offer lowball settlements before you know the full extent of your damages. We’ll negotiate for the maximum compensation your family deserves.

Q: Can you help if my child was hazed at a high school in DeKalb County?

Yes. Hazing happens at high schools, colleges, and universities in DeKalb County. We represent victims of all ages.

Q: What if my child is afraid of retaliation?

We understand the fear of retaliation. We protect our clients and ensure their safety throughout the legal process. Many hazing victims are afraid to come forward — we provide the support and legal protection they need.

🏆 Our Commitment to DeKalb County Families

When your child is hazed in DeKalb County, you need aggressive, experienced, and compassionate legal representation. That’s what we provide.

We Promise DeKalb County Families:

✅ Immediate response — We’re available 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911
✅ Aggressive representation — We fight for maximum compensation
✅ Compassionate support — We treat your family with respect and care
✅ No upfront costs — You pay nothing unless we win
✅ Nationwide service — We serve DeKalb County families no matter where the hazing occurred
✅ Travel to DeKalb County — We come to you for meetings, depositions, and trials

📞 DeKalb County Families: Contact Us Now

If your child was hazed in DeKalb County, call us immediately. The 2-year statute of limitations is running — don’t wait until it’s too late.

24/7 Legal Emergency Hotline for DeKalb County Hazing Victims:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Email:

📧 ralph@atty911.com

Website:

🌐 attorney911.com

Video Consultations Available

DeKalb County families can meet with our attorneys remotely via video call.

We Will Travel to DeKalb County

For depositions, trials, and client meetings, our attorneys will travel to DeKalb County.

🔥 Our Message to DeKalb County Fraternities, Sororities, and Universities

To the fraternities and sororities operating near DeKalb County: We are watching.

The same legal strategies that secured $10+ million verdicts nationwide apply to your chapter. If you haze students in DeKalb County, we will find every liable entity.

Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi, Sigma Chi, Kappa Sigma — if your chapter operates near DeKalb County, know that Attorney 911 represents hazing victims across America.

To Northern Illinois University and other DeKalb County institutions:
The same institutional negligence that made University of Houston a defendant exists at your campus. Act now or face the same accountability.

The Beta Nu chapter at University of Houston? SHUT DOWN. Charter surrendered. Criminal referrals initiated. Our client’s $10 million lawsuit is ongoing.

That’s what happens when you haze in DeKalb County too.

💙 To DeKalb County Hazing Victims: You Are Not Alone

We know what you’re going through. We know the fear, the shame, the anger. We know you might be afraid to come forward.

You are not alone.

Our client was afraid too — afraid of retribution, afraid of being ostracized. But he came forward because he knew it was the right thing to do. And now we’re fighting for him.

If you were hazed in DeKalb County, we will fight for you too.

Call us. We will listen. We will believe you. And we will fight for justice.

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

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Serving DeKalb County and Nationwide

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