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Elkhart County (Earth/North America/United States/Indiana/Elkhart County) Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $50M+ in National Settlements Exposed | Attorney911 β€” The Firm That Shut Down Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu | Federal Court | Former Insurance Defense | 1-888-ATTY-911

February 21, 2026 19 min read
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🚨 Hazing Victims in Elkhart County: You Are Not Alone. We Are Fighting for You.

If your child has been hazed at a fraternity, sorority, sports team, or any student organization in Elkhart County or nearby, we can help. Attorney 911 is currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston β€” and we will bring the same aggressive representation to Elkhart County families.

πŸ“ž Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

Available 24/7 for Elkhart County hazing emergencies

The Hazing Crisis in Elkhart County: What Every Parent Needs to Know

Elkhart County is home to hardworking families who send their children to college expecting them to be safe. You trust that universities and Greek organizations near Elkhart County will protect your child. But the reality is shocking: hazing is happening at colleges and universities across Indiana, including near Elkhart County, and it’s putting students’ lives at risk.

What Hazing Really Looks Like in Elkhart County

Hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or “harmless tradition.” In our current case against Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston, we’ve uncovered:

  • Waterboarding β€” simulated drowning with a garden hose
  • Forced eating until vomiting β€” then forced to continue exercising
  • Extreme physical punishment β€” 500 squats, 100+ pushups, bear crawls until collapse
  • Wooden paddles β€” physical beatings
  • Sleep deprivation β€” forced to drive members during early morning hours
  • Psychological torture β€” humiliation, degradation, threats of expulsion

This isn’t happening in some distant state. The same national fraternities operate at universities near Elkhart County. The same culture of abuse exists. And your child could be next.

The Medical Consequences of Hazing in Elkhart County

In our current case, the victim suffered:

  • Rhabdomyolysis β€” muscle breakdown that releases toxic proteins into the blood
  • Acute kidney failure β€” life-threatening condition requiring hospitalization
  • Four days in the hospital β€” fighting for his life

Other hazing victims have suffered:

  • Alcohol poisoning from forced drinking
  • Traumatic brain injuries from beatings or falls
  • Hypothermia from exposure
  • Sexual assault
  • Death

Why Elkhart County Families Can’t Trust Universities to Protect Their Children

Universities near Elkhart County have known about hazing for years. In our current case:

  • The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where the hazing occurred
  • They had a prior hazing incident in 2017 at a different fraternity that hospitalized a student
  • They did nothing to prevent this from happening again
  • They collected rent while students were being tortured

Elkhart County parents: If this can happen at a major university, it can happen at institutions near Elkhart County. And when it does, universities will protect themselves β€” not your child.

The Legal Rights of Elkhart County Hazing Victims

If your child has been hazed in Elkhart County or nearby, you have legal rights. You can sue for:

  • Medical expenses β€” past and future
  • Pain and suffering β€” physical and emotional
  • Lost wages β€” if hazing affected your child’s ability to work
  • Educational disruption β€” if hazing caused academic problems
  • Punitive damages β€” to punish the organization and prevent future hazing

Most importantly: Consent is NOT a defense. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, Indiana law does not allow consent as a defense to hazing.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Hazing in Elkhart County?

In our current case, we are suing:

  • The local fraternity chapter β€” for organizing and conducting the hazing
  • The national fraternity organization β€” for failing to supervise and prevent hazing
  • The university β€” for owning the property and failing to protect students
  • Individual members β€” for participating in and facilitating the hazing

Elkhart County families: These same defendants can be held liable for hazing near Elkhart County.

The $10 Million Message We’re Sending to Elkhart County Hazers

We are currently litigating a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t just about compensation β€” it’s about sending a message:

Hazing costs MILLIONS. Torturing our children has consequences. Elkhart County families will not stand by while institutions abuse our children.

This same message applies to Elkhart County. If hazing happens near Elkhart County, we will fight for you with the same determination.

What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Elkhart County

If your child has been hazed at a university near Elkhart County, take these steps immediately:

  1. Get medical attention β€” even if injuries seem minor
  2. Preserve all evidence β€” texts, photos, videos, social media posts
  3. Do NOT talk to the organization β€” they will try to control the narrative
  4. Do NOT post on social media β€” anything you post can be used against you
  5. Call Attorney 911 immediately β€” 1-888-ATTY-911

Time is critical. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Statutes of limitations expire. Call us now.

Why Elkhart County Families Choose Attorney 911

We Are Currently Fighting This Battle β€” Right Now

While other law firms talk about hazing, we are actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit. We know the defendants. We know their tactics. We know how to win.

We Have the Experience Elkhart County Families Need

  • 25+ years of litigation experience β€” Ralph Manginello
  • Former insurance defense attorneys β€” we know how defendants think
  • Federal court admission β€” we can pursue cases nationwide
  • Dual-state bar licenses β€” Texas AND New York
  • Multi-million dollar case experience β€” including BP Texas City explosion litigation

We Understand the Unique Challenges of Elkhart County Hazing Cases

While we are based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including Elkhart County. We understand:

  • The culture of Greek organizations near Elkhart County
  • The institutional failures that allow hazing to continue
  • The fear and shame that prevent victims from coming forward
  • The legal strategies needed to hold institutions accountable

We Offer Remote Consultations for Elkhart County Families

You don’t need to travel to Texas to get our help. We offer:

  • Video consultations β€” meet with us from your Elkhart County home
  • Phone consultations β€” call 1-888-ATTY-911 anytime
  • Travel to Elkhart County β€” we come to you for depositions and meetings

We Work on Contingency β€” $0 Upfront for Elkhart County Families

We understand that cost can be a barrier to justice. That’s why we take hazing cases on contingency:

  • $0 upfront β€” you pay nothing to hire us
  • $0 unless we win β€” we only get paid if we recover compensation for you
  • No financial risk β€” if we don’t win, you owe us nothing

We Speak Spanish β€” Se Habla EspaΓ±ol

Hazing affects students from all backgrounds. If your family speaks Spanish, we can communicate in your preferred language:

  • Consultations in Spanish
  • Case updates in Spanish
  • Translation of all documents
  • No language barriers to justice

The Attorney 911 Difference: How We Fight for Elkhart County Families

We Build Cases with Expert Witnesses

Hazing cases require specialized knowledge. We work with:

  • Medical experts β€” to document the physical and psychological injuries
  • Greek life culture experts β€” to explain the coercive environment
  • Institutional negligence experts β€” to show how universities fail to protect students
  • Economic experts β€” to calculate future medical expenses and lost earning capacity

We Preserve Evidence Immediately

In hazing cases, evidence disappears quickly. We:

  • Send immediate preservation letters to all defendants
  • Obtain text messages and social media posts before they’re deleted
  • Identify and interview witnesses before memories fade
  • Document everything to build a strong case

We Negotiate from Strength

We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing case. This gives us leverage in negotiations:

  • Defendants know we’re not afraid to go to trial
  • They know we have a track record of winning
  • They know we won’t accept lowball offers

We Travel to Elkhart County

While we are based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide. We will:

  • Travel to Elkhart County for depositions, client meetings, and trials
  • Coordinate with local counsel if needed
  • Ensure you have local support while benefiting from our national expertise

We Provide Remote Consultations

Elkhart County families can meet with us through:

  • Video calls β€” Zoom, FaceTime, or other platforms
  • Phone calls β€” 1-888-ATTY-911
  • Email β€” ralph@atty911.com

Distance is not a barrier to justice. We are here for Elkhart County families.

What Elkhart County Families Can Expect When They Call Us

Step 1: Free Consultation

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll:

  • Listen to your story
  • Evaluate your case
  • Explain your legal options
  • Answer your questions

Step 2: Evidence Preservation

If we take your case, we’ll immediately:

  • Send preservation letters to all defendants
  • Gather and secure all evidence
  • Interview witnesses
  • Document the full extent of the hazing and injuries

Step 3: Medical Documentation

We’ll work with medical providers to:

  • Obtain all medical records
  • Document the physical and psychological injuries
  • Calculate future medical expenses
  • Establish the long-term impact of the hazing

Step 4: Demand Letter

We’ll send a demand letter to all defendants outlining:

  • The facts of the hazing
  • The injuries suffered
  • The legal basis for liability
  • The compensation we’re seeking

Step 5: Negotiation

We’ll negotiate aggressively with defendants to:

  • Obtain fair compensation for your child
  • Avoid the stress of a trial if possible
  • Ensure accountability for the hazing

Step 6: Litigation (If Necessary)

If defendants refuse to offer fair compensation, we will:

  • File a lawsuit on your behalf
  • Conduct discovery to gather evidence
  • Depose defendants and witnesses
  • Prepare for trial

Step 7: Trial (If Necessary)

If we cannot reach a fair settlement, we will:

  • Present your case to a judge and jury
  • Fight for maximum compensation
  • Hold the defendants accountable

Step 8: Resolution

Whether through settlement or trial, we will:

  • Obtain the compensation your child deserves
  • Ensure the defendants are held accountable
  • Work to prevent future hazing incidents

The Precedents That Prove Elkhart County Families Can Win

Hazing cases result in multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts. Here are just a few examples:

Case University Fraternity Outcome
Stone Foltz Bowling Green State Pi Kappa Alpha $10.1 million
Maxwell Gruver Louisiana State Phi Delta Theta $6.1 million jury verdict
Timothy Piazza Penn State Beta Theta Pi $110+ million (estimated)
Andrew Coffey Florida State Pi Kappa Phi Settlement (confidential)

Elkhart County families: These same results are possible for you. We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing case β€” and we will fight for Elkhart County victims with the same determination.

The Laws That Protect Elkhart County Hazing Victims

Indiana Hazing Law

Indiana has strong laws against hazing. Under Indiana Code Β§ 35-42-2-2, hazing is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Definition of Hazing in Indiana:

A person who recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally performs an act that creates a substantial risk of bodily injury to a student enrolled in a secondary school, college, or university, and the act is done in connection with an initiation or admission into, or affiliation with, a student organization.

Key Points for Elkhart County Families:

  • Consent is NOT a defense β€” even if your child “agreed” to participate
  • Organizations can be held liable β€” fraternities, sororities, sports teams, etc.
  • Individuals can be held liable β€” members who participated in or facilitated hazing

Civil Liability for Hazing in Indiana

In addition to criminal charges, Elkhart County hazing victims can sue for:

  • Negligence β€” failure to protect students
  • Assault and battery β€” intentional harmful contact
  • Intentional infliction of emotional distress β€” extreme and outrageous conduct
  • Premises liability β€” if hazing occurred on university property
  • Negligent supervision β€” failure to monitor student organizations

Statute of Limitations for Elkhart County Hazing Cases

Indiana law gives you 2 years from the date of the hazing incident to file a lawsuit.

Do not wait. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Your legal rights expire.

The Institutions That Fail Elkhart County Students

Greek Organizations Near Elkhart County

The same national fraternities and sororities that operate at the University of Houston have chapters at universities near Elkhart County. These organizations have a long history of hazing:

Fraternity Hazing Incidents
Pi Kappa Phi Andrew Coffey (2017, death); Leonel Bermudez (2025, hospitalization) β€” OUR CURRENT CASE
Pi Kappa Alpha Multiple deaths and hospitalizations nationwide
Sigma Alpha Epsilon Multiple deaths and hospitalizations nationwide
Phi Delta Theta Maxwell Gruver (2017, death)
Beta Theta Pi Timothy Piazza (2017, death)

Elkhart County parents: These same organizations operate near Elkhart County. They have the same culture of abuse.

Universities Near Elkhart County

Universities near Elkhart County have a responsibility to protect students. But too often, they fail:

  • They own fraternity houses but don’t inspect them
  • They know hazing happens but don’t stop it
  • They prioritize reputation over safety
  • They collect tuition and fees while students are being abused

In our current case, the University of Houston owned the fraternity house where the hazing occurred. They had a prior hazing incident in 2017. They did nothing to prevent this from happening again. The same failures happen at universities near Elkhart County.

The Warning Signs of Hazing in Elkhart County

Elkhart County parents: Be aware of these warning signs that your child may be experiencing hazing:

Behavioral Changes

  • Sudden withdrawal from family and friends
  • Increased secrecy about activities
  • Unexplained mood swings or depression
  • Fear of discussing certain organizations
  • Sudden loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy

Physical Signs

  • Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries
  • Fatigue or sleep deprivation
  • Weight loss or changes in appetite
  • Signs of alcohol or drug use
  • Difficulty walking or moving

Academic Issues

  • Sudden drop in grades
  • Missing classes or assignments
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Withdrawal from academic activities

Social Media Clues

  • Deleted social media posts or accounts
  • New, secretive social media groups
  • Posts about “traditions” or “initiation”
  • References to being “new” or “a pledge”

Direct Statements

  • “It’s just tradition”
  • “Everyone goes through it”
  • “It’s not as bad as it sounds”
  • “I can’t talk about it”
  • “It’s just part of joining”

Elkhart County parents: If you notice these signs, talk to your child. And call Attorney 911 immediately if you suspect hazing.

Elkhart County Families: You Are Not Powerless

Hazing can make victims and families feel powerless. But you have options:

Legal Options

  • File a lawsuit β€” hold the organization and individuals accountable
  • Seek compensation β€” for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more
  • Demand institutional change β€” force universities to implement real oversight

Support Options

  • Counseling β€” for your child and your family
  • Support groups β€” connect with other hazing victims and families
  • Advocacy organizations β€” work to change hazing culture

Prevention Options

  • Report to authorities β€” file police reports and Title IX complaints
  • Work with legislators β€” support stronger hazing laws
  • Educate other families β€” share your story to prevent future hazing

Attorney 911 Is Here to Help

We understand the trauma that hazing causes. We understand the fear of coming forward. We understand the desire for justice.

We are here to help Elkhart County families:

  • Fight for compensation
  • Hold institutions accountable
  • Prevent future hazing incidents

The Message to Elkhart County Fraternities and Universities

To the fraternities operating near Elkhart County:
We are watching. The same legal strategies that secured $10+ million verdicts nationwide apply to your chapter. If you haze students in Elkhart County, we will find every liable entity. We will pursue every insurance policy. We will hold every individual accountable.

To the universities near Elkhart County:
The same institutional negligence that made the University of Houston a defendant exists at your campus. Act now or face the same accountability. Own your fraternity houses? You own the liability. Have the power to regulate Greek life? You have the responsibility. Fail to protect students? You will pay.

To the national fraternity organizations:
Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi β€” if your chapter operates near Elkhart County, know that Attorney 911 represents hazing victims across America. We have proven these cases can be won. We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing case against Pi Kappa Phi. Your chapter could be next.

Elkhart County Hazing Victims: It’s Time to Step Forward

If you or your child has been hazed at a university near Elkhart County, you are not alone. We are currently representing a hazing victim in a $10 million lawsuit β€” and we will bring the same aggressive representation to Elkhart County families.

Call Attorney 911 now:
πŸ“ž 1-888-ATTY-911
πŸ“§ ralph@atty911.com

We offer:
βœ… Free, confidential consultations
βœ… $0 upfront β€” we work on contingency
βœ… Remote consultations for Elkhart County families
βœ… Travel to Elkhart County for your case
βœ… 24/7 availability for hazing emergencies

Time is critical. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Statutes of limitations expire. Call us now.

Together, We Can End Hazing in Elkhart County

Hazing doesn’t have to be a rite of passage. It doesn’t have to be “tradition.” It doesn’t have to be “just part of college.”

With your help, we can:

  • Hold institutions accountable
  • Secure compensation for victims
  • Change the culture of hazing
  • Protect future Elkhart County students

Elkhart County families: Your child deserves to be safe. Your family deserves justice. Call Attorney 911 today.

πŸ“ž 1-888-ATTY-911 | πŸ“§ ralph@atty911.com | 🌐 attorney911.com

Enough is enough. The fight starts now.

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