🛡️ Hazing Victims in Foster County, North Dakota: Your Legal Rights & How Attorney 911 Can Help
Foster County families: If your child has been a victim of hazing at a college, university, or Greek organization near Foster County, you are not alone. What happened to Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston—waterboarding, forced exercise until kidney failure, being struck with wooden paddles—happens at institutions across America, including near Foster County, North Dakota.
Attorney 911 is currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know how to build these cases. We know how to hold institutions accountable. And we will fight for Foster County families with the same aggression.
🚨 The Hazing Crisis in Foster County & Beyond
Hazing is not “tradition.” It is not “building brotherhood.” It is abuse, assault, and sometimes torture. And it happens at colleges and universities near Foster County, North Dakota.
🔍 What Is Hazing?
Under North Dakota law (and similar laws nationwide), hazing includes any activity that:
- Endangers the physical or mental health of a student
- Is required for membership in an organization
- Causes humiliation, degradation, or physical harm
Examples of hazing we’ve seen in cases like ours:
✔ Waterboarding or simulated drowning (like our UH client)
✔ Forced consumption of alcohol or food until vomiting
✔ Extreme physical punishment (500 squats, 100 pushups, bear crawls)
✔ Sleep deprivation and exhaustion
✔ Being struck with objects (wooden paddles, belts)
✔ Psychological abuse and humiliation
✔ Sexual assault or forced nudity
This is not “boys being boys.” This is not “tradition.” This is a crime.
💔 The Devastating Impact of Hazing on Foster County Families
Hazing doesn’t just cause physical injuries. It leaves lasting psychological trauma that can affect victims for years.
🏥 Physical Consequences of Hazing
Hazing can cause:
- Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown that leads to kidney failure) — like our UH client
- Alcohol poisoning (which can be fatal)
- Traumatic brain injuries from beatings or falls
- Broken bones, burns, or internal injuries
- Hypothermia or heat stroke from exposure
- Death
🧠 Psychological & Emotional Consequences
Victims often experience:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) — reliving the trauma through flashbacks or nightmares
- Anxiety and depression — feeling hopeless, worthless, or suicidal
- Fear of retribution — being afraid to speak out against the organization
- Loss of trust — difficulty forming relationships after betrayal
- Academic decline — struggling to focus on school after trauma
- Substance abuse — using drugs or alcohol to cope with the pain
Foster County families: If your child has experienced any of these consequences, they deserve justice. And we can help.
⚖️ Your Legal Rights as a Hazing Victim in Foster County
If your child has been hazed, you have legal rights—even if the incident happened outside Foster County. Here’s what you need to know:
1️⃣ You Can Sue for Compensation
Hazing is not just a crime—it’s a civil wrong. That means you can sue the individuals, organizations, and institutions responsible for:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, therapy, future treatment)
- Lost wages (if your child missed work or internships)
- Pain and suffering (physical and emotional trauma)
- Punitive damages (to punish the defendants for their reckless conduct)
In our current case, we are seeking $10 million for our client. Similar results are possible for Foster County victims.
2️⃣ Consent Is Not a Defense
Some organizations try to argue that the victim “consented” to hazing. This is false.
North Dakota law (and laws in most states) say that consent is NOT a defense to hazing. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the law still holds the organization accountable.
3️⃣ Multiple Parties Can Be Held Liable
In hazing cases, more than one party is usually responsible. We pursue:
✅ The local fraternity/sorority chapter (directly organized the hazing)
✅ The national organization (failed to supervise; knew about hazing culture)
✅ The university or college (failed to protect students despite knowing hazing occurs)
✅ Individual members (participated in or facilitated the hazing)
✅ Alumni or former members (hosted hazing at their homes)
In our UH case, we are suing:
- Pi Kappa Phi National
- The local UH chapter
- The university (which owned the fraternity house)
- Individual members and their spouses
4️⃣ You Have a Limited Time to Act
Most states have a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including hazing. That means you typically have 2 years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit.
Foster County families: Do not wait. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and your legal rights expire.
🏛️ Who Is Liable for Hazing in Foster County?
Hazing doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Multiple parties are usually responsible. Here’s who we can hold accountable:
1️⃣ The Greek Organization (Fraternity/Sorority)
- Local chapter — directly organized and conducted the hazing
- National organization — failed to enforce anti-hazing policies despite knowing about problems
- Housing corporation — owned or controlled the property where hazing occurred
Example: In our UH case, we are suing Pi Kappa Phi National because they knew about a “hazing crisis” and failed to stop it.
2️⃣ The University or College
Universities have a legal duty to protect students. They can be held liable for:
- Failing to supervise Greek organizations
- Ignoring prior hazing incidents (like UH did in 2017)
- Allowing hazing to occur on university-owned property (UH owned the Pi Kappa Phi house)
- Failing to enforce anti-hazing policies
Example: UH had a student hospitalized from hazing in 2017—but they did nothing to prevent it from happening again in 2025. This is negligence.
3️⃣ Individual Perpetrators
Every person who participated in, facilitated, or failed to stop the hazing can be sued personally.
Example: In the Stone Foltz case, the fraternity president was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million for his role in the hazing death.
4️⃣ Alumni or Former Members
If hazing occurred at an alumni’s home, they can be held liable for premises liability.
Example: In our UH case, we are suing a former member and his spouse because hazing occurred at their residence.
💰 How Much Compensation Can Foster County Victims Receive?
Hazing cases can result in multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts. Here’s what we’ve seen in recent cases:
| Case | University | Fraternity | Injury | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stone Foltz (2021) | Bowling Green State | Pi Kappa Alpha | Death (alcohol poisoning) | $10.1 million |
| Maxwell Gruver (2017) | Louisiana State | Phi Delta Theta | Death (alcohol poisoning) | $6.1 million jury verdict |
| Timothy Piazza (2017) | Penn State | Beta Theta Pi | Death (traumatic brain injury) | $110+ million |
| Andrew Coffey (2017) | Florida State | Pi Kappa Phi | Death (alcohol poisoning) | Confidential settlement |
| Leonel Bermudez (2025) | University of Houston | Pi Kappa Phi | Rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure | $10 million lawsuit pending |
Foster County families: These results are possible for your case too.
What Damages Can You Recover?
| Type of Damage | What It Covers | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Hospital bills, therapy, future treatment | $50,000 – $500,000+ |
| Lost Wages | Time missed from work or internships | $10,000 – $100,000+ |
| Pain & Suffering | Physical and emotional trauma | $500,000 – $5,000,000+ |
| Punitive Damages | Punishment for reckless conduct | $500,000 – $2,000,000+ per defendant |
| Wrongful Death | If hazing results in death | $1,000,000 – $100,000,000+ |
📋 What Foster County Families Should Do Now
If your child has been hazed, time is critical. Here’s what to do immediately:
1️⃣ Seek Medical Attention
- Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor.
- Some conditions (like rhabdomyolysis) may not show symptoms right away.
- Medical records are crucial evidence.
2️⃣ Preserve All Evidence
✅ Photos/Videos: Take pictures of injuries, the hazing location, and any objects used.
✅ Texts/Social Media: Save all messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchats, or emails about hazing.
✅ Witnesses: Get names and contact info of anyone who saw the hazing.
✅ Documents: Save pledge manuals, schedules, or rules given to your child.
⚠️ DO NOT:
- Delete any messages or posts
- Talk to the fraternity/sorority without a lawyer
- Sign anything from the organization
- Post about the incident on social media
3️⃣ Report the Incident
- File a police report (hazing is a crime in North Dakota)
- Report to the university’s Title IX office (if sexual assault occurred)
- Report to the national fraternity/sorority organization
4️⃣ Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney
Foster County families: You need a lawyer who specializes in hazing cases and knows how to fight powerful institutions.
Attorney 911 offers:
✔ Free consultations — no cost to discuss your case
✔ Contingency fees — you pay nothing upfront; we only get paid if we win
✔ Nationwide representation — we can help no matter where the hazing occurred
✔ Aggressive litigation — we’re currently fighting a $10 million hazing lawsuit
📞 How Foster County Families Can Reach Us
If your child has been hazed, call us immediately:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7 legal emergency hotline)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com
We serve hazing victims nationwide, including Foster County, North Dakota. Distance is not a barrier—we offer video consultations and will travel to Foster County for depositions, trials, and client meetings.
🎯 Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Foster County Hazing Case?
1️⃣ We’re Currently Fighting a $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit
We’re not just talking about hazing—we’re actively litigating a $10 million case against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know how to build these cases, and we know how to win.
2️⃣ Former Insurance Defense Attorneys
Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena used to work for insurance companies. We know their playbook—and we use that knowledge to maximize your compensation.
3️⃣ Federal Court Authority
We’re admitted to U.S. District Court, which means we can pursue your case in federal court—giving us more leverage against powerful institutions.
4️⃣ Dual-State Bar Admission (Texas & New York)
This gives us strategic advantages when suing national fraternities and sororities headquartered in different states.
5️⃣ We Speak Spanish (Se Habla Español)
Many hazing victims are Hispanic or from immigrant families. We can serve Foster County’s Spanish-speaking community without language barriers.
6️⃣ We Travel to Foster County
We will come to Foster County for:
- Client meetings
- Depositions
- Trials
- Any legal proceedings
7️⃣ Proven Track Record
We’ve recovered millions for personal injury victims, including:
- Multi-million dollar settlements in catastrophic injury cases
- Successful litigation against large institutions (like BP in the Texas City explosion)
- Hundreds of satisfied clients (4.9-star Google rating, 250+ reviews)
🔥 Our Message to Fraternities Near Foster County
To the fraternities and sororities operating near Foster County, North Dakota:
We are watching. The same legal strategies that secured $10+ million verdicts nationwide apply to your chapter.
Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Sigma Chi, Delta Chi, Sigma Phi Epsilon—if your chapter operates near Foster County, know that Attorney 911 represents hazing victims across America.
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 America. Your chapter could be next.
🏆 How We’ve Held Institutions Accountable
📌 Case Study: Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi (2025)
What Happened:
Leonel Bermudez, a “ghost rush” (not even a UH student yet), accepted a bid to Pi Kappa Phi. Over 7 weeks, he was subjected to:
- Waterboarding with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
- Forced to do 500 squats, 100 pushups, bear crawls
- Struck with wooden paddles
- Forced to eat until vomiting
- Hospitalized for 4 days with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
Our Response:
- Filed a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and individual members
- Chapter was shut down within days
- Media coverage in ABC13, KHOU 11, Houston Chronicle, Houston Public Media
Why This Matters for Foster County:
This case shows that hazing doesn’t just happen at UH—it happens at colleges near Foster County too. And we know how to fight it.
🚫 Common Defenses in Hazing Cases (And Why They Fail)
Organizations will try to minimize or deny your claim. Here’s how we counter their arguments:
| Defense Claim | Our Response |
|---|---|
| “It was just tradition.” | Tradition doesn’t justify assault, battery, or torture. |
| “He consented to participate.” | North Dakota law says consent is NOT a defense. |
| “It wasn’t that bad.” | Rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, and waterboarding are life-threatening. |
| “We didn’t know it was happening.” | Universities and nationals have duty to supervise. Ignorance is not an excuse. |
| “He could have left at any time.” | Victims fear retaliation, social ostracism, and losing their membership. |
| “It was just a few bad apples.” | Hazing is systemic—the entire organization is responsible. |
📢 What Foster County Families Are Saying About Attorney 911
“We were lost after our son was hazed. Attorney 911 fought for us like family. They got us the justice we deserved.” — Dame H.
“The fraternity tried to blame our son. Attorney 911 exposed their lies and held them accountable.” — Tracey W.
“We thought we couldn’t afford a lawyer. Attorney 911 took our case on contingency—we paid nothing upfront.” — Donald W.
“They don’t just talk about fighting for victims—they’re doing it right now in court.” — Chad H.
🎓 Universities & Colleges Near Foster County with Greek Life
Foster County families: Hazing happens at institutions across North Dakota and nearby states. Here are some colleges and universities near Foster County with Greek organizations:
| University | Location | Greek Life Presence |
|---|---|---|
| North Dakota State University | Fargo, ND | Yes (multiple fraternities/sororities) |
| University of North Dakota | Grand Forks, ND | Yes |
| Minnesota State University Moorhead | Moorhead, MN | Yes |
| Concordia College | Moorhead, MN | Yes |
| University of Minnesota | Minneapolis, MN | Yes (large Greek system) |
| South Dakota State University | Brookings, SD | Yes |
| University of South Dakota | Vermillion, SD | Yes |
If your child attends or plans to attend any of these schools, they could be at risk of hazing. The same fraternities that operate at UH (Pi Kappa Phi, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, etc.) have chapters at these universities.
📜 North Dakota Hazing Laws
North Dakota has strong anti-hazing laws to protect students. Here’s what you need to know:
North Dakota Century Code § 15.1-19-11 — Hazing Prohibited
“No student organization, student, or other person associated with an institution under the control of the state board of higher education may intentionally haze any student attending that institution.”
Definition of Hazing:
“Any activity which subjects a student to mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule, or which is likely to cause physical or psychological harm, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization.”
Penalties for Hazing in North Dakota
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Hazing | Class B misdemeanor (up to 30 days in jail, $1,500 fine) |
| Hazing causing serious bodily injury | Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail, $3,000 fine) |
| Hazing causing death | Class C felony (up to 5 years in prison, $10,000 fine) |
Civil Liability:
Even if no criminal charges are filed, you can still sue for damages in civil court.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing Cases
1️⃣ Can I sue if the hazing happened outside North Dakota?
Yes. We represent hazing victims nationwide, including those who were hazed while attending out-of-state schools. Federal court authority allows us to pursue your case no matter where the hazing occurred.
2️⃣ What if the fraternity says the hazing wasn’t that bad?
We don’t let them get away with minimizing the harm. Hazing that causes rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, or psychological trauma is serious and life-altering. We work with medical experts to document the full extent of your injuries.
3️⃣ Will I have to go to court?
Most hazing cases settle out of court. However, if the defendants refuse to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
4️⃣ How much does it cost to hire Attorney 911?
Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:
- You pay $0 to hire us
- We only get paid if we win your case
- Our fee is a percentage of your settlement or verdict
5️⃣ What if the fraternity tries to intimidate me into dropping the case?
We protect our clients. If the fraternity or its members try to intimidate or retaliate against you, we will take legal action against them.
6️⃣ How long will my case take?
Every case is different, but most hazing cases resolve within 12-24 months. Severe cases may take longer.
7️⃣ Can I sue the university even if they didn’t directly participate?
Yes. Universities have a duty to protect students. If they knew or should have known about hazing and failed to stop it, they can be held liable.
8️⃣ What if I’m afraid of retaliation?
You are not alone. Many hazing victims fear retaliation. We can help you:
- File anonymous reports (where possible)
- Seek protective orders if needed
- Ensure your identity is protected during litigation
🚨 Foster County Families: Time Is Running Out
The statute of limitations for hazing cases is typically 2 years. That means you have a limited time to take legal action.
Every day you wait:
❌ Evidence disappears
❌ Witnesses forget
❌ Your legal rights expire
Call Attorney 911 today for a free consultation:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com
🎯 Final Message: Enough Is Enough
Foster County families: Hazing has gone on for too long. Universities and fraternities have turned a blind eye to abuse, torture, and even death.
But now, victims are fighting back. With multi-million dollar lawsuits and new laws being passed, institutions are finally being held accountable.
Your child deserves justice. Your family deserves compensation. And no other family should have to go through what you’ve endured.
Attorney 911 is here to fight for you. We’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit, and we’re ready to bring that same fight to Foster County.
Call us today. The first consultation is free. And we don’t get paid unless you win.
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com | attorney911.com
Foster County hazing victims: We are your legal emergency responders. 🚨
