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Grady County Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $24M Pike Settlements | 125+ Greek Orgs Tracked | Attorney911 — Chapters Closed, Millions Recovered | Federal Court | Former Insurance Defense | 1-888-ATTY-911

Earth, Georgia, Grady County, North America, United States

If you’re reading this, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college. Instead, they were tortured. We’re here to help families in Grady County, Georgia, fight back.

We are Attorney911, and we represent young people and their families who have been devastated by the senseless, brutal acts of hazing. Our firm is currently battling a national fraternity and a major university in federal court over a $10 million lawsuit for injuries a student sustained during hazing rituals. This isn’t just a legal fight for us; it’s a personal mission to ensure no other family in Grady County, Georgia, or anywhere else, endures such pain.

When we see stories of young lives shattered by hazing, we don’t just see a case number; we see a son, a daughter, a family torn apart. We understand the fear, the anger, and the desperate search for justice that brings you to our page. Families in Grady County deserve to know that they have powerful advocates in their corner – seasoned legal professionals who are not afraid to take on national organizations and complacent universities.

This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with knowledge. It details the horrifying reality of modern hazing, explores the legal avenues available to victims and their families in Grady County, and explains exactly how our aggressive, data-driven approach positions us as the leading authority in hazing litigation nationwide. Most importantly, it will show you how we are actively fighting this battle right now, and how we will apply that same relentless advocacy to your child’s case in Grady County.

The Landmark Case: A $10 Million Fight Happening Right Now – The Same Fight We’ll Bring to Grady County, Georgia

This is not a hypothetical discussion about what we might do. This is a look at what we are doing today, in federal court, against a national fraternity and a major university. This case is the cornerstone of our commitment to hazing victims, and it represents everything we stand for: aggressive representation, data-driven strategy, and unwavering accountability.

Families in Grady County, Georgia: What happened in Houston can, and often does, happen at universities and colleges your children attend. Fraternities with chapters similar to the one involved in our lawsuit operate across the nation, including those drawing students from Grady County. The negligence that allowed unspeakable acts to occur in our recent case is often mirrored in institutions across the country, including those near Grady County. We promise to bring the same level of aggressive, expert-level representation to your family in Grady County that we are currently bringing to this landmark case.

News Coverage: Multiple Outlets Have Reported

This lawsuit is a matter of public record, extensively covered by major news outlets. We encourage you to review their reports on this critical case:

We also acknowledge the public statement issued by one of the defendants:

Our $10 Million Lawsuit: Who We Are Suing

Our firm, Attorney911, filed this $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court on November 21, 2025. It names an exhaustive list of defendants to ensure every responsible party is held accountable. This aggressive, comprehensive approach is the standard we apply to every hazing case, including those for families in Grady County.

Defendants in our Nov 2025 Lawsuit:

  • Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity (University of Houston Beta Nu Chapter)
  • Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters
  • The Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation
  • The University of Houston
  • The University of Houston Board of Regents
  • The fraternity’s President
  • The Pledgemaster
  • Multiple current and former individual fraternity members
  • A former fraternity member AND his spouse, because hazing activities occurred at their private residence.

The Story of Leonel Bermudez: A Warning to Grady County Families

Leonel Bermudez was a young man with aspirations, a “ghost rush” planning to transfer to the University of Houston for the upcoming semester. He wasn’t even an enrolled student yet. He accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi on September 16, 2025, hoping to find a community. What he found instead was weeks of systematic abuse, torture, and hazing that landed him in the hospital for three nights and four days. He was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

Why Leonel’s story resonates for families in Grady County, Georgia:

  • Pi Kappa Phi has over 150 chapters nationally. They undoubtedly have chapters with members from Grady County, and some chapters may also be located at universities students from Grady County attend.
  • The exact same “traditions” that hospitalized Leonel are replicated in fraternity chapters across the country, including those that recruit from or are located near Grady County.
  • Universities, regardless of their location, bear a responsibility to protect their students from hazing. The institutional failures at the University of Houston could easily occur at any university, including those where students from Grady County pursue higher education.
  • If your child suffers from hazing at a university near Grady County, we will leverage the same legal strategies and aggressive advocacy we are employing in Leonel’s case.

As our attorney, Ralph Manginello, 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.”

Attorney Lupe Pena’s words to ABC13 underscore our motivation: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” We believe that by aggressively pursuing accountability in cases like Leonel’s, we can help protect students in Grady County and across the nation from similar horrors.

The Horrifying Details: What Happened to Leonel

The lawsuit meticulously details the ordeal Leonel endured:

The Incident: November 3, 2025
Leonel was singled out for punishment after missing an event. He was forced to participate in an extreme, prolonged workout session including:

  • Over 100 pushups and 500 squats.
  • High-volume running drills known as “suicides.”
  • Demanding exercises like “bear crawls,” “wheelbarrows,” and “save-you-brother” drills.
  • Multiple 100-yard crawls.
  • He was forced to recite the fraternity creed repeatedly while performing these exercises, under threat of immediate expulsion if he stopped.
  • He was pushed to such an extreme point of exhaustion that he could not stand without help and had to crawl to his bed when he finally made it home.

Systematic Abuse and Torture:
The November 3rd incident was not isolated. Over weeks of pledging, Leonel and other pledges were subjected to:

  • Waterboarding: Pledges were subjected to simulated waterboarding with a garden hose, having water sprayed directly in their faces while being forced to do calisthenics. They were threatened with this torture if they stopped exercising. This is a tactic recognized globally as a form of torture.
  • Forced Consumption: They were compelled to consume large quantities of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited, then forced to resume physical exertion, lying in their own vomit-soaked grass.
  • Extreme Physical Punishment: Beyond the November 3rd incident, pledges were regularly subjected to excessive workouts, being struck with wooden paddles, and forced to strip down to their underwear in cold weather. One pledge even lost consciousness during a forced workout in mid-October 2025, and fraternity members had to elevate his legs until he recovered.
  • Psychological Torture and Humiliation: Leonel was forced to carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature. In a particularly egregious incident on October 13, 2025, another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.
  • Sleep Deprivation: Pledges were forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, disrupting their sleep and leading to chronic exhaustion.

The Medical Reality: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

Leonel’s body broke down under the immense strain. When his mother rushed him to the hospital, he was “passing brown urine,” a classic sign of rhabdomyolysis.

What is Rhabdomyolysis? This is a serious condition where damaged muscle fibers release their contents into the bloodstream. These substances, especially a protein called myoglobin, can damage the kidneys, leading to acute kidney failure. In severe cases, it can be fatal.

Leonel’s Diagnosis and Treatment:

  • He was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
  • Hospital tests revealed “very high creatine kinase levels,” confirming significant muscle damage.
  • He required three nights and four days of hospitalization, receiving intensive medical treatment to prevent permanent organ damage.
  • He experienced extreme muscle pain and difficulty walking, classic symptoms of his condition.

Institutional Responses: A Calculated Effort to Limit Blame

The responses from the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters reveal their internal knowledge and attempts to control the narrative.

University of Houston Spokesperson (as reported by Houston Public Media):
“The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards. The University is conducting its own investigation in coordination with law enforcement and with the cooperation of the fraternity and its national leadership. Pending the outcome of these investigations, any individual found responsible for hazing will face disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion and potential criminal charges.”

What this statement means:

  • A tacit admission of severe wrongdoing: “Deeply disturbing” and “clear violation” are strong terms.
  • Anticipating criminal charges: The university itself acknowledges the criminal nature of the acts.
  • Coordination with defendants: “In coordination with law enforcement and with the cooperation of the fraternity and its national leadership” implies a united front, but also confirms that UH and Pi Kappa Phi National were working together before the lawsuit was filed.

Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters (from their official website statement, Nov 21, 2025):
“Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity closed its Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards. Pi Kappa Phi takes all allegations of hazing seriously. This action reflects our commitment to upholding the Fraternity’s values and expectations while prioritizing the well-being of our members.”
“We thank the University of Houston for its collaboration and leadership. Pi Kappa Phi has a proud history of accomplished students and alumni from the Beta Nu Chapter, and we look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time and continuing our partnership with the University of Houston in the years ahead.”

What this statement actually means to us:

  • Consciousness of guilt: They closed the chapter a week before our $10 million lawsuit was filed. They knew criminal and civil action was imminent.
  • Admission of “violations”: They admit their own policies were breached.
  • Hollow “commitment”: Their alleged “commitment to upholding values” and “prioritizing well-being” stands in stark contrast to the fact that their chapter hospitalized a student using torture tactics.
  • Planning their return: Despite the severe injuries inflicted, their focus is on “returning to campus,” demonstrating a disturbing lack of remorse or true understanding of the gravity of the situation. This suggests they believe they can weather the storm and resume operations without fundamental change.

Why This Case Matters So Deeply to Families in Grady County

  1. “Tradition” is Torture: This case rips apart the facade of “harmless fun” or “team-building.” Waterboarding, forced eating till vomiting, and extreme physical abuse are not pranks; they are systematic torture. Families in Grady County must understand that this kind of brutality can and does happen at institutions across the nation, including those your children may attend.
  2. Universities Are Complicit: The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where some of these horrific acts occurred, yet failed to prevent them. This demonstrates a deep institutional failure. Universities that students from Grady County attend have similar powers and responsibilities, and face identical liability when they fail to protect their students.
  3. National Organizations Are Aware: Pi Kappa Phi’s national headquarters acted swiftly to suspend and dissolve the chapter once news broke, proving they recognized the severe misconduct. The same national fraternities operate chapters near Grady County, indicating their national organizations are aware of potential issues within their systems.
  4. Victims Are Silenced by Fear: Our client is “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution,” a common and tragic reality for hazing victims. Students from Grady County who endure hazing often face the same fear, which is why aggressive legal representation is crucial to protect them.
  5. One Brave Victim Protects Many: As Lupe Pena stated, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do.” By bravely coming forward, Leonel Bermudez is not only seeking justice for himself but is also creating a ripple effect that can force change and protect countless other students, including those from Grady County. Your Grady County case could similarly save lives.
  6. A $10 Million Message: This lawsuit seeks substantial damages not just for Leonel’s injuries, but to send an undeniable message that torturing students carries a massive financial penalty, forcing institutions to prioritize safety over “tradition.” Families in Grady County who suffer similar tragedies deserve the opportunity to send the same resounding message.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

When you hear the word “hazing,” your mind might conjure images of silly pranks or harmless initiations. We need to shatter that perception. What our client, Leonel Bermudez, endured, and what countless other students face every year, is not innocent fun. It is calculated, systematic abuse designed to break spirits and bodies. This violence transcends typical college antics and should alarm every parent in Grady County.

This is what hazing looks like in America today:

  • Assault: Being struck with wooden paddles, as Leonel was, is not a game; it is physical battery.
  • Torture: Waterboarding, the simulated drowning Leonel suffered with a garden hose, is internationally recognized as a torture technique.
  • Reckless Endangerment: Forcing someone to eat until they vomit and then continue strenuous exercise in their own mess shows a complete disregard for human life and dignity.
  • Coercion and Control: The demands for extreme workouts, sleep deprivation, and psychological manipulation are designed to strip pledges of their autonomy.
  • Medical Catastrophe: Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, as experienced by Leonel, are life-threatening medical emergencies, not side effects of “brotherhood.”

Common Tactics of Modern Hazing

Based on our years of experience fighting these cases and the details uncovered in lawsuits like Leonel’s, hazing commonly involves:

Category Examples
Physical Abuse Beatings, paddling, branding, burning, forced and excessive exercise to the point of collapse (like 500 squats or 100 pushups), forced calisthenics, carrying heavy objects, sleep deprivation leading to exhaustion, hog-tying, forced nudity in public or cold weather, prolonged standing in uncomfortable positions.
Forced Consumption Binge drinking or chugging of alcohol; rapid consumption of specific foods (like large quantities of milk or hot dogs) until vomiting; eating non-food items; ingesting foul-tasting or dangerous substances (like peppercorns). This often results in alcohol poisoning, choking, or, as in Leonel’s case, severe metabolic disruption like rhabdomyolysis.
Psychological Torture Humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, extensive yelling and berating, isolation from friends and family, threats of physical punishment or social ostracism, forced public embarrassment, constant surveillance or monitoring, sleep deprivation creating heightened anxiety and susceptibility to manipulation.
Sexual Hazing Forced nudity, simulated sexual acts, sexual assault, carrying sexually explicit objects (like Leonel’s fanny pack), forcing pledges to interact with exotic dancers, creation or distribution of compromising photos or videos. This is a severe and often criminal aspect of hazing.
Servitude & Deprivation Forced cleaning duties at all hours, running errands for members, driving members at inconvenient times (leading to exhaustion), confiscation of phones or personal belongings, forced academic study hours, limited food or water intake.
Forced Illegal Acts Requiring pledges to steal, vandalize property, engage in underage drinking, or participate in other unlawful activities.
Mock Rituals Mock abductions, mock interrogations, mock funerals, often involving blindfolds, restraints, and threats, designed to induce fear and psychological trauma.

The Devastating Medical Consequences

The “traditions” of hazing leave behind more than just memories; they leave behind severe injuries, often with lifelong impact:

  • Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure: Directly observed in Leonel Bermudez’s case from extreme physical exertion. This requires immediate medical intervention and can lead to permanent kidney damage or death.
  • Alcohol Poisoning: A tragically common outcome of forced binge drinking, as seen in the deaths of Maxwell Gruver, Stone Foltz, and Andrew Coffey (from Pi Kappa Phi).
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From falls (like Timothy Piazza), beatings, or violent shaking.
  • Internal Organ Damage: Lacerated spleen (as in the 2017 UH hazing case), liver damage, gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From exposure to extreme temperatures.
  • Cardiac Arrest: From extreme physical exertion or electrolyte imbalances caused by dehydration.
  • Infections: From branding, cuts, or poor hygiene forced upon pledges.
  • Psychological Trauma: Persistent Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, trust issues, and suicidal ideation, which can linger for years and require extensive therapy.

The types of incidents that happened at the University of Houston, involving physical torture, forced consumption, and simulated waterboarding, can happen at any university or organization. Students from Grady County are not immune to these dangers if they join student groups, sports teams, or fraternities and sororities. Understanding the true scope of hazing is the first step toward protecting our children and seeking justice when harm occurs.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Entity Accountable

When hazing occurs, it’s never just the actions of a few individuals. It’s a systemic failure, often involving multiple layers of responsibility. Our firm aggressively pursues every entity that contributes to or enables hazing, ensuring comprehensive accountability. For families in Grady County, this means we cast a wide net, holding everyone—from the individual perpetrators to the national organizations and universities—responsible.

In Leonel Bermudez’s $10 million lawsuit, we are actively pursuing claims against a diverse group of defendants, demonstrating our commitment to this multi-faceted approach:

  1. The Local Chapter (Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu):

    • Why they are liable: This is the immediate group that planned, organized, and carried out the hazing rituals. They are directly responsible for the acts committed.
    • Application to Grady County: Any local chapter of a fraternity or sorority at a college attended by students from Grady County that engages in hazing is directly liable for the harm caused. This includes chapter officers (President, Pledgemaster, Risk Manager) who often direct or approve these activities, and individual members who participate.

  2. The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization (Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters):

    • Why they are liable: National organizations often know about the hazing culture within their chapters but fail to provide adequate oversight, training, or enforcement of anti-hazing policies. They rely on “risk management policies” that are rarely enforced until a tragedy strikes. Pi Kappa Phi National’s immediate closure of the UH chapter post-hospitalization suggests prior awareness and failure to act. The prior death of Andrew Coffey at an FSU Pi Kappa Phi chapter in 2017 provides undeniable evidence that the national organization had reason to know, and a duty to take action to stop, future hazing incidents.
    • Application to Grady County: Any national Greek organization with a chapter that draws students from or is located near Grady County is a potential defendant. These organizations typically have significant financial resources and liability insurance to cover such incidents.

  3. The University or College (University of Houston, UH Board of Regents):

    • Why they are liable: Universities and colleges have a legal and moral duty to protect their students. In Leonel’s case, the University of Houston is particularly culpable because it owned the fraternity house where some of the hazing took place. This creates a clear case for premises liability. Furthermore, UH had a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017 (a student with a lacerated spleen from Pi Kappa Alpha hazing), indicating a pattern of institutional negligence regarding Greek life safety that they failed to address before Leonel’s incident.
    • Application to Grady County: Any university or college attended by students from Grady County can be held liable for negligent supervision of Greek life, failure to enforce anti-hazing policies, and, if applicable, premises liability on property they own or control.

  4. The Housing Corporation (Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation):

    • Why they are liable: These entities often own and manage the physical property of the fraternity house. They can be held responsible for allowing dangerous activities to occur on their premises and for failing to ensure a safe environment.
    • Application to Grady County: Many fraternities at universities utilize housing corporations, which hold significant assets and can therefore be named as defendants. We track these corporate entities through our extensive database.

  5. Individual Perpetrators:

    • Why they are liable: This includes the chapter president, pledgemaster, and any other current or former members who actively participated in, directed, or enabled the hazing. In Leonel’s case, even a former member and his spouse were named because hazing occurred at their private residence, making them liable under premises liability and potential conspiracy. These individuals can be held personally responsible for assault, battery, and other intentional torts.
    • Application to Grady County: We will identify and pursue every individual involved, seeking to hold them personally accountable for their actions, just as seen in the Stone Foltz case where a former chapter president was held personally liable for a $6.5 million judgment.

  6. Insurance Carriers:

    • Why they are liable: The financial compensation in these cases often comes from the various insurance policies held by the national organization, the university, housing corporations, and even the personal liability insurance of individual members (e.g., homeowner’s policies). As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena possess an insider’s understanding of how these carriers operate, how they value claims, and, most importantly, how to compel them to pay the maximum possible settlement.
    • Application to Grady County: We meticulously identify all potential insurance policies that can contribute to a fair settlement for families in Grady County, leveraging our experience to navigate their complex terms and maximize recovery.

The “Deep Pockets” Principle: Hazing litigation is not about bankrupting college students. It is about compelling large, well-funded institutions and their insurers—the “deep pockets”—to create safer environments. When these entities face multi-million dollar liabilities for their failures, real change can begin to happen. Our fight is to make hazing so financially devastating for these organizations that they are compelled to stamp it out for good. We will bring this same financial pressure to bear for victims in Grady County.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof

The devastation caused by hazing is immeasurable, but justice demands financial accountability. Landmark verdicts and settlements across the nation prove that when families stand up and fight, they can secure multi-million dollar compensation. These precedents send a powerful message to fraternities, universities, and national organizations: hazing costs millions, and we have the receipts.

Families in Grady County, Georgia, need to know that these significant outcomes are not just for cases in other states; the same legal principles and aggressive strategies are applicable to cases arising near them. We use these precedents to inform our demands, to negotiate from a position of strength, and to show defendants in your child’s case that we are prepared to secure justice on a similar scale.

Landmark Verdicts & Settlements: Paying the Price for Hazing

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021)

Total Recovery: Over $10.1 Million

  • What Happened: In March 2021, at a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation event, Stone Foltz was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol. He was found unresponsive the next morning and died from alcohol poisoning.
  • The Outcome: This case resulted in criminal convictions for multiple fraternity members, the permanent expulsion of the fraternity from campus, and combined settlements exceeding $10.1 million. Bowling Green State University paid $2.9 million, and Pi Kappa Alpha National, along with individual members, contributed an additional $7.2 million. In a later development in December 2024, a former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was personally ordered to pay a separate $6.5 million judgment.
  • Relevance to Grady County: This case shows that both universities and national fraternities face multi-million dollar liabilities. Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is directly aligned with the financial scale established by this precedent. It demonstrates that courts are willing to hold individuals personally responsible, a critical lesson for any local chapter officers.

Maxwell Gruver – Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017)

Total: $6.1 Million Jury Verdict

  • What Happened: In September 2017, Max Gruver, 18 years old, died from acute alcohol poisoning (with a BAC of 0.495) after being forced to drink excessive alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” event at LSU.
  • The Outcome: A jury awarded Max’s family $6.1 million. This tragic death also led to the passage of the Max Gruver Act, which made hazing a FELONY in Louisiana, marking a significant legislative shift.
  • Relevance to Grady County: This jury verdict underscores that when cases proceed to trial, juries are willing to award millions for hazing deaths. It also highlights how these cases can lead to vital legal reforms, a goal we passionately pursue.

Timothy Piazza – Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017)

Total: Estimated Over $110 Million (Multiple Settlements)

  • What Happened: Following a bid acceptance night in February 2017, Timothy Piazza was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes, reaching a dangerously high BAC of 0.36. He suffered a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding after falling down stairs, but fraternity brothers delayed calling 911 for 12 hours. He later died. The entire horrific incident was captured on security cameras.
  • The Outcome: This case resulted in one of the largest hazing settlements ever, estimated to be over $110 million. Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, including involuntary manslaughter, and Pennsylvania passed the comprehensive Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.
  • Relevance to Grady County: The Piazza case demonstrates that when evidence is strong and the misconduct egregious (like the detailed evidence in Leonel Bermudez’s case), settlements can reach monumental figures. It also reinforces that states often respond to major hazing tragedies with enhanced legislation.

Andrew Coffey – Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017)

The Same National Fraternity as Our Case

  • What Happened: In November 2017, Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon at a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” event.
  • The Outcome: Nine fraternity members were criminally charged, and the Pi Kappa Phi chapter was permanently closed at FSU. A civil suit filed by the family resulted in a confidential settlement.
  • Relevance to Grady County: This is a crucial precedent for Leonel Bermudez’s case. Andrew Coffey’s death means Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters knew its chapters engaged in deadly hazing rituals years before Leonel’s hospitalization. Despite this knowledge, they failed to implement sufficient safeguards, demonstrating a clear pattern of negligence and foreseeability that strengthens our case for clients like those we represent from Grady County.

Legislative Impact of Hazing Cases

These devastating tragedies have driven legislative change, creating stronger anti-hazing laws and more severe penalties. These laws help protect students from Grady County and across the nation:

  • Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law (Pennsylvania, 2018): Introduced felony hazing charges and immunity for those who report hazing incidents.
  • Max Gruver Act (Louisiana, 2018): Made hazing a FELONY offense and increased penalties dramatically.
  • Collin’s Law (Ohio, 2021): Named after Collin Wiant, another hazing victim, this law also introduced felony hazing charges.
  • Texas Hazing Law: As detailed in the next section, Texas already has robust anti-hazing statutes, including criminal penalties and the critical provision that consent is not a defense.

Why These Precedents Fuel Our Fight for Grady County Families

  1. Our $10 Million Demand is Realistic: The Stone Foltz case proves that a $10 million demand for serious hazing injuries leading to multi-day hospitalization and potential long-term health issues is entirely consistent with judicial and settlement trends.
  2. Pi Kappa Phi’s Documented History: The death of Andrew Coffey at a Pi Kappa Phi chapter eight years before Leonel’s hospitalization is a smoking gun. It proves the national organization had ample warning and failed to address its dangerous culture, exposing them to greater liability and punitive damages in cases for Grady County students.
  3. University of Houston’s Prior Knowledge: The 2017 hazing hospitalization at UH (albeit a different fraternity) demonstrates that the university had prior notice of hazing dangers on its campus. This highlights institutional negligence and reinforces their duty to prevent future incidents, a lesson applicable to any university drawing students from Grady County.
  4. Juries Despise Hazing: The $6.1 million verdict in the Gruver case signals that juries are outraged by hazing and are willing to award substantial damages, especially for egregious conduct like the waterboarding and forced physical exertion Leonel endured.
  5. Criminal and Civil Accountability: Hazing is a crime, not just a violation of university policy. The criminal consequences often run parallel to civil lawsuits, creating multiple avenues for justice and accountability for victims from Grady County.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights Beyond Grady County

While our firm’s headquarters are in Houston, and our current landmark case unfolds in Texas, the legal principles that underpin hazing litigation are universal. Most states have anti-hazing laws, and fundamental civil liability theories apply regardless of location. For families in Grady County, Georgia, this means that even though we are based in Texas, our expertise and federal court authority enable us to pursue justice for hazing victims anywhere across the nation, including your local community. The core tenets of the law, such as the impossibility of consenting to hazing, are foundational principles we wield regardless of jurisdiction.

In Texas, our anti-hazing laws are particularly robust, providing a powerful framework for accountability. These laws are a testament to our state’s commitment to protecting students, and they offer a model for how we build cases nationwide.

Texas Anti-Hazing Law: Education Code §§ 37.151-37.157

This comprehensive statute explicitly defines hazing, outlines severe penalties, and establishes clear responsibilities for educational institutions and organizations.

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): The Broad Scope of Abuse

Texas law defines hazing broadly, encompassing almost any act that endangers a student for the purpose of joining or maintaining membership in an organization, whether it occurs on or off campus. This definition is crucial because it covers the vast majority of activities witnessed in hazing incidents, including those perpetrated against Leonel Bermudez.

A hazy act is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act that endangers mental or physical health and safety, such as:

  • Physical Brutality: This includes whipping, beating, striking (like Leonel being struck with wooden paddles), branding, electric shocking, or placing harmful substances on the body.
  • Physical Exertion and Deprivation: Activities like sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements (being forced to strip in cold weather, as Leonel recounted), confinement in small spaces, or calisthenics and other similar activities that subject the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or adversely affect their health or safety. This directly covers the immense physical exertion that caused Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure.
  • Forced Consumption: Requiring a student to consume food, liquid, alcohol, or other substances that pose an unreasonable risk of harm or negatively affect their health. This explicitly covers Leonel’s forced eating until vomiting.
  • Criminal Acts: Any activity that causes a student to violate the Penal Code.
  • Alcohol Coercion: Forcing a student to consume alcohol to a degree that a reasonable person would believe them to be intoxicated.

Application to Grady County: While specific state laws may vary, most states have similar broad definitions of hazing that would encompass the types of abuses Leonel suffered. Our firm meticulously researches the specific laws of each jurisdiction, ensuring every applicable statute is brought to bear on your case.

Criminal Penalties for Hazing (§ 37.152): Consequences for Perpetrators

Texas law imposes serious criminal penalties for hazing, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies:

  • Class B Misdemeanor: For engaging in hazing, soliciting, encouraging, aiding hazing, or even having firsthand knowledge and failing to report it. Punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
  • Class A Misdemeanor: For hazing that causes serious bodily injury. This carries up to 1 year in jail and a $4,000 fine. Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure absolutely constitute serious bodily injury.
  • State Jail Felony: For hazing that causes death. This is punishable by 180 days to 2 years in state jail and a $10,000 fine. Had Leonel not received critical medical care, his case could have fallen into this category.

Application to Grady County: The fact that hazing is a criminal offense in Texas, and increasingly in other states, is a powerful tool. It means that the individuals involved can face not only civil lawsuits but criminal prosecution, potentially leading to jail time. For families in Grady County, this provides another pathway to justice and demonstrates the severity with which the law views these acts.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Holding Institutions Accountable

Organizations themselves can face severe penalties:

  • Fines up to $10,000.
  • Denial of permission to operate on campus.
  • Forfeiture of property.

An organization is liable if it “condones or encourages hazing” or if its members or alumni commit or assist in hazing. This is why we sued both the local chapter and Pi Kappa Phi National.

Application to Grady County: This strong provision directly impacts national fraternities and universities, emphasizing their responsibility to prevent hazing within their structures. We use this to establish liability against these larger entities, regardless of whether they have a physical presence in Grady County.

Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): The Game Changer

This is perhaps the most critical aspect of Texas’s anti-hazing law, and a principle we argue vigorously in every case:

“It is not a defense to prosecution for an offense under this subchapter that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

This crucial clause in Texas law strips away the most common defense used by fraternities and universities: “He agreed to participate.” “He knew what he was signing up for.” “He could have left at any time.” The Texas Legislature explicitly foreclosed these arguments.

Why this is so important for families in Grady County:

  • Removes Blame from the Victim: This powerful statute prevents perpetrators from shifting blame onto your child by claiming they “consented.” The law recognizes that true consent is impossible in an environment of coercion, peer pressure, and fear.
  • Focuses on the Perpetrator’s Actions: It forces the legal focus squarely onto the illegal and harmful actions of those who committed the hazing, rather than the impossible choices of the victim.
  • A Weapon Against Institutional Excuses: When universities and fraternities in Grady County try to minimize their responsibility by claiming pledges voluntarily participated, we cite this legal principle to dismantle their defense.

Institutional Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Forcing Transparency

Chief administrative officers of educational institutions must report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days of becoming aware of them. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor. This provision forces transparency and creates a paper trail, aiding our investigations.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Prosecution

Even if criminal charges are not pursued, civil lawsuits offer a powerful avenue for victims from Grady County to seek justice and significant financial compensation. We leverage multiple legal theories to hold all responsible parties accountable:

  1. Negligence Claims: The cornerstone of most personal injury lawsuits. We argue that institutions (universities, national fraternities) and individuals had a “duty of care” to protect the student, breached that duty through their actions or inactions, directly causing the injuries and damages.
  2. Premises Liability: When hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (like the UH fraternity house) or another entity, that entity has a responsibility to maintain a safe environment. Failing to do so makes them liable. This is particularly relevant for families in Grady County if hazing occurred in a registered fraternity house or campus facility.
  3. Negligent Supervision: This applies when an organization (national fraternity, university) fails to adequately supervise its local chapter or student groups, allowing hazing to occur. Their failure to enforce policies or respond to warnings makes them responsible.
  4. Assault and Battery: Individual perpetrators can be sued for intentional physical harm (battery) or the threat of it (assault). This directly applies to acts like waterboarding, paddling, or forced physical exertion.
  5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): Reserved for egregious conduct that causes severe emotional harm. Torture tactics like waterboarding and psychological manipulation are prime examples that warrant IIED claims.
  6. Vicarious Liability: This doctrine holds an organization responsible for the actions of its members, especially when those members act within the scope of their organizational duties or for the benefit of the organization.

For families in Grady County: These civil claims exist in almost every state. Our attorneys are skilled at navigating the intricacies of state-specific laws while building a compelling case based on these fundamental liability theories. Your family can pursue justice and compensation regardless of where the hazing occurred or whether criminal charges are filed.

Why Attorney911 Is the Choice for Hazing Victims in Grady County, Georgia

We understand that choosing a legal team after a hazing incident is one of the most critical decisions a family can make. You need compassionate advocates, but also relentless litigators. At Attorney911, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, we offer a unique blend of experience, insight, and aggressive advocacy that truly sets us apart—qualities that are absolutely essential for families in Grady County seeking justice against powerful institutions.

We are not just a law firm; we are legal emergency lawyers. When hazing strikes your family in Grady County, you need immediate, aggressive, and professional help.

Our Unmatched Advantages for Grady County Families:

  1. Currently Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit: We aren’t just talking about hazing; we are actively fighting it right now in federal court, against Pi Kappa Phi National and the University of Houston. This tangible, ongoing legal battle means we are immersed in the latest hazing litigation strategies, medical expert networks for rhabdomyolysis and other hazing injuries, and institutional defense tactics. Families in Grady County benefit directly from this real-time, cutting-edge experience. We will bring these same strategies to your case.
  2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys: Both Ralph Manginello (he/him/his) and Lupe Pena (he/him/his) are former insurance defense attorneys. Mr. Pena, a third-generation Texan and Sugar Land native, worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm. This means they’ve seen every trick in the book. They understand how insurance companies evaluate claims, how they formulate their defense strategies, and how they attempt to minimize payouts. Now, they use that invaluable insider knowledge to dismantle those defenses and maximize recovery for victims from Grady County. They know their playbook because they wrote it.
  3. Federal Court Authority & Nationwide Reach: Our attorneys are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and possess dual state bar licenses (Texas and New York). This federal authority and multi-state licensure are crucial when pursuing national fraternities and universities that often have operations across state lines. While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we proudly serve hazing victims nationwide, including those in Grady County. Distance is not a barrier to justice; we offer remote consultations and will travel to Grady County for depositions, meetings, and trial as needed.
  4. Battle-Tested Against Massive Corporations: Ralph Manginello was involved in the multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP following the Texas City refinery explosion that killed 15 workers and injured 180+. This experience demonstrates our capacity to take on—and win against—massive corporate defendants with seemingly limitless resources. The same tenacity and strategic acumen apply to challenging large universities and national Greek organizations for victims in Grady County.
  5. Hazing-Specific Expertise: We have direct experience with fraternity litigation, have handled cases involving rhabdomyolysis (the exact injury Leonel suffered), and understand the nuanced liability of universities and national organizations. We track Greek life organizational data across Texas, maintaining one of the most comprehensive private directories of IRS-registered Greek entities, including legal names and EINs. When hazing happens, we know exactly who is behind the Greek letters and who to sue.
  6. “Se Habla Español”: Our staff, including Lupe Pena, is fluent in Spanish. This is a critical advantage for the diverse families of Grady County, ensuring that language barriers never impede access to justice or clear communication throughout the legal process.
  7. No Upfront Cost – Contingency Fees: We understand that the financial burden of a hazing incident is immense. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay us absolutely nothing unless and until we secure compensation for you. This commitment levels the playing field, making expert legal representation accessible to all families in Grady County, Georgia, regardless of their financial situation. For a deeper understanding of how these fee structures work, you can watch our video on “How Contingency Fees Work” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.
  8. Deep Personal Investment: Ralph, a father of three, and Lupe, a family man himself, understand the profound impact hazing has on young individuals and their loved ones. This isn’t just a job; it’s a mission driven by empathy and a fierce commitment to protecting students. We treat every family in Grady County like our own.
  9. Relentless Pursuit of Evidence: Ralph Manginello’s journalism background trained him to investigate, uncover facts, and tell compelling stories. This is vital in hazing cases where institutions try to hide or minimize evidence. We aggressively challenge flawed evidence and expose inconsistencies, ensuring that the truth—and justice—prevail. We also advise clients on preserving evidence, from texts and photos to medical records. Our video “Using Your Phone to Document Evidence” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides valuable guidance on this critical step.

Client Testimonials: Trust Built On Results

Our nearly 5-star rating on Google My Business with over 250 reviews reflects our unwavering commitment to client satisfaction and results. Clients consistently praise our communication, responsiveness, and aggressive advocacy.

  • “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client that’s caught in the middle of many other cases. You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” — Chad Harris
  • “I was in a very bad vehicle accident last year… when they picked up my case they were on it it did not take a very long time for us to settle… the settlement was in my favor in my opinion they did a great job.” — Sharon Giron
  • “Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions and concerns throughout the entire process until the end.” — Chelsea Martinez

This is the kind of dedication and results we bring to every family, including those facing the nightmare of hazing in Grady County.

We Don’t Just Talk About Hazing. We’re Fighting It Right Now.

Our involvement in the Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al. lawsuit is not merely a bullet point on a website; it is the living proof that we possess the expertise, the determination, and the strategy to challenge even the most powerful defendants. We are bringing these capabilities to hazing victims in Grady County, Georgia, and nationwide.

If your family in Grady County is grappling with the aftermath of hazing, know that you do not have to face this alone. We are here to help turn your pain into powerful, meaningful change.

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

If your child has been subjected to hazing in Grady County, Georgia, or at a university they attend, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. While shock, anger, and confusion are natural, taking swift, decisive action can make all the difference in building a strong legal case and securing justice. We understand you are scared and overwhelmed, but we are here to guide you through these urgent steps.

Immediate Action: Protecting Your Child and Preserving Evidence

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: This is paramount. If your child has sustained any physical injuries—no matter how minor they seem initially—or is experiencing psychological distress, ensure they receive professional medical care immediately.

    • Document Everything: Every visit to an emergency room, doctor’s office, or therapist must be documented. These medical records are primary evidence of harm. Ensure medical professionals are aware the injuries resulted from hazing. Even subtle signs like muscle soreness, bruising, or unusual fatigue should be checked. For more on the importance of immediate medical attention, watch our video: “Why Seeing a Doctor Right After an Accident Is Critical.”
    • Rhabdomyolysis Risk: As Leonel Bermudez’s case tragically showed, extreme physical exertion can lead to rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure. Symptoms like dark urine, severe muscle pain, and difficulty moving require urgent attention.
    • Psychological Support: Hazing inflicts deep emotional wounds. Seek counseling or therapy for your child. Mental health records are crucial evidence of psychological trauma, such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression.

  2. Preserve All Available Evidence – IMMEDIATELY: Hazing perpetrators and institutions will often attempt to destroy or hide incriminating evidence. You must act quickly to secure anything that could be relevant.

    • Photographs and Videos: Use your phone to take pictures of any physical injuries your child sustained (bruises, cuts, burns, rashes). Document the hazing location if possible, or any materials related to the hazing (clothing, objects, specific items mentioned in hazing rituals). This includes progression of injuries, from initial appearance to healing, or lack thereof. Our video “Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) offers vital guidance on this.
    • Digital Communications: SAVE EVERYTHING. This includes text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat conversations, Instagram DMs, emails, and any other digital correspondence related to the hazing. Take screenshots immediately, as these can be deleted by perpetrators.
    • Hazing Documents: Any “pledge manuals,” schedules, rules, creeds, or instructions given to your child related to hazing activities.
    • Witness Information: Collect names and contact information for any other pledges, fraternity/sorority members, or bystanders who witnessed the hazing. They may be afraid to come forward, but their information is invaluable.
    • Financial Records: Keep track of all medical bills, therapy costs, and any lost wages or academic expenses incurred as a result of the hazing.
    • Academic Records: Document any impact on grades, enrollment status, or scholarship eligibility.

  3. DO NOT Communicate with Perpetrators or Organizations Alone:

    • Avoid Fraternity/Sorority Leadership: Do not speak to the chapter president, pledgemaster, alumni advisors, or national representatives without legal counsel. Anything your child says can be twisted or used against them.
    • Avoid University Administration (Alone): The university’s priority is to protect itself, not your child. Do not give any formal statements or sign any documents without consulting an attorney first.
    • DO NOT Post on Social Media: Anything posted by your child online can be used by the defense to undermine their case. This includes photos, comments, or even seemingly innocent updates about their well-being. This is a critical mistake that can ruin a case. Our video “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident” helps explain why.
    • DO NOT Delete Anything: Deleting digital evidence (texts, photos) can be construed as tampering and severely harm a case.

  4. Report the Hazing (with Legal Guidance):

    • Law Enforcement: Consider filing a police report. Hazing is a crime in Georgia and many other states.
    • University Title IX / Greek Life Office: Official reports to the university may be necessary, but do so with guidance from your attorney to protect your child’s rights.

The Critical Role of Timing: Why You Must Act Now

Time is a relentless enemy in hazing cases. Every day that passes can weaken your ability to secure justice.

  • Statute of Limitations: In Georgia, generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of injury. For wrongful death, it’s typically two years from the date of death. This means you have a limited window to file a lawsuit, and if you miss this deadline, your legal rights are lost forever. Our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c) explains this in detail.
  • Evidence Disappears: Digital evidence is easily deleted, and physical evidence can be cleaned up. Witnesses’ memories fade, or they may be pressured into silence. The sooner we are involved, the better we can preserve critical evidence.
  • Organizational Cover-Ups: Fraternities and universities are adept at damage control. They may conduct internal investigations designed to protect themselves, dispose of evidence, or influence witnesses.
  • Medical Treatment: Delays in seeking medical care can be used by the defense to argue that injuries were not serious or were unrelated to the hazing.

Leonel Bermudez’s case is a prime example of acting swiftly: He was hospitalized on November 6, 2025, and our $10 million lawsuit was filed just weeks later, on November 21, 2025. This immediate action was crucial to securing evidence and putting all defendants on notice.

Contact Attorney911 Immediately: Your First Step Towards Justice

Your child endured unspeakable acts. Now, it’s time to fight for them. We are available 24/7 to provide immediate, expert legal counsel.

For families in Grady County, Georgia, seeking a hazing lawyer:

  • Call our Legal Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911
  • Email directly: ralph@atty911.com
  • Free, Confidential Consultation: We will listen to your story, assess the details of your case, and provide clear guidance on your legal options—with no obligation and no upfront cost.
  • Remote Consultations: Even though our primary offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we offer video consultations and leverage technology to serve families in Grady County and nationwide. We will travel to you for depositions, client meetings, and trial as needed.

This is not just your fight; it’s our fight. We will stand with your family in Grady County, Georgia, and relentlessly pursue justice against every individual and institution responsible for the horror of hazing. Enough is enough. Call us today.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline in Grady County, Georgia

If your child in Grady County, Georgia, or anywhere across the nation, has been a victim of hazing, you are in a legal emergency. The clock is ticking, evidence is at risk, and you need immediate action. We are Attorney911, and we are here to provide that emergency response.

We understand that reaching out for legal help may feel overwhelming, especially during such a traumatic time. But remember, you are not alone, and you do not have to navigate this complex, painful journey by yourself. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, is ready to stand with you. We are aggressively fighting hazing right now, and we bring this same dedication and expertise to every family we represent, including those in Grady County.

Your Immediate Lifeline for Hazing Victims in Grady County, Georgia

Our firm is committed to being accessible the moment you need us. Whether it’s the middle of the night or a weekend, a legal emergency demands an immediate response.

📞 Call Our 24/7 Legal Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911

  • Direct Email: ralph@atty911.com
  • Visit Our Website: attorney911.com
  • Free, Confidential Consultation: Your initial consultation is always free. There is no obligation, and no risk. We are here to listen, to understand, and to provide expert guidance on your specific situation.

No Upfront Costs: We Don’t Get Paid Unless You Do

We firmly believe that financial hardship should never prevent a family in Grady County from accessing top-tier legal representation. This is why we handle all hazing cases on a contingency fee basis.

What this means for you:

  • $0 Upfront: You pay absolutely nothing out-of-pocket to hire us.
  • No Hourly Fees: We do not bill by the hour.
  • We Take the Risk: We cover all litigation costs and expenses as the case progresses.
  • We Only Get Paid If We Win: Our fees are a percentage of the compensation we recover for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing for our legal services.

Serving Grady County, Georgia, and Nationwide

While our primary offices are strategically located in Texas (Houston, Austin, and Beaumont), our capacity to represent hazing victims extends far beyond. We are equipped and ready to serve families impacted by hazing in Grady County, Georgia, and throughout the United States.

  • Remote Consultations: We can conduct comprehensive consultations via phone or video conference, making it convenient for families in Grady County to connect with us without travel.
  • Federal Court Authority: Our attorneys are admitted to federal courts, which allows us to pursue cases involving national organizations across state lines.
  • Dual-State Bar Licenses: With attorneys licensed in both Texas and New York, we possess a broader legal reach, especially valuable when dealing with national fraternities and university systems.
  • Commitment to Travel: When necessary for depositions, client meetings, or trial, our legal team will travel to Grady County to ensure your case receives the personalized attention it deserves.

Your Call Can Make a Difference

By contacting us, you’re not just seeking justice for your child; you’re joining a movement to force accountability and prevent future tragedies. As attorney Lupe Pena stated in our current $10 million lawsuit, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” Your courage in coming forward can protect other students in Grady County and across the country.

Don’t let fear, embarrassment, or loyalty to an organization keep you silent. Hazing is a serious crime that leaves lasting scars. Let us be your aggressive advocates, your voice for justice.

Call Attorney911 today. We are your legal emergency lawyers, and we are ready to fight for you.

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