Hazing Victims in Gunnison County Deserve Justice

The Same Hazing That Hospitalized a UH Student Could Happen at Western Colorado University

Gunnison County families: If your child attends Western Colorado University or any college near Gunnison, they face the same hazing risks that hospitalized our client in Houston. The same national fraternities operate here. The same culture of abuse exists. And the same institutions fail to protect students.

At Attorney 911, we are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston after our client was waterboarded, forced to do 500 squats, and hospitalized with kidney failure. This isn’t just happening in Texas — it’s happening nationwide, including right here in Gunnison County.

Gunnison County Parents: Your Child Could Be Next

Western Colorado University has active Greek organizations including:

• Pi Kappa Phi (the same fraternity we’re suing in Houston)
• Sigma Chi
• Phi Delta Theta
• Other national fraternities and sororities

These organizations have chapters across Colorado and the nation. The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client exist at Western Colorado University and other Gunnison County institutions.

What Gunnison County Families Need to Know About Hazing

Hazing Isn’t Tradition — It’s Torture

In our current case, Pi Kappa Phi members:

• Waterboarded a pledge with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
• Forced him to do 500 squats and 100 pushups until he collapsed
• Struck him with wooden paddles
• Made him eat until he vomited, then forced him to continue exercising
• Another pledge lost consciousness during these workouts

This isn’t brotherhood. This isn’t tradition. This is torture. And it happens at universities near Gunnison County too.

Universities Near Gunnison County Are Complicit

The University of Houston owned the fraternity house where our client was waterboarded. They collected rent while students were tortured. They had the power to inspect and regulate — but they chose not to.

Western Colorado University and other institutions near Gunnison County have the same responsibility. They have the same power to stop hazing. And when they fail, they share liability for the harm done to Gunnison County students.

National Organizations Know — And Do Nothing

Pi Kappa Phi National knew about deadly hazing at their chapters for years:

• 2017: Andrew Coffey died at Pi Kappa Phi (Florida State)
• 2025: Our client hospitalized at Pi Kappa Phi (University of Houston)

They had 8 years to fix their culture. They did nothing. The same national organizations operate chapters near Gunnison County — and they’re doing the same thing here.

Gunnison County Victims Are Afraid to Speak Out

Our client fears retribution for coming forward. Gunnison County hazing victims face the same fear. The culture of intimidation is real. But silence protects the abusers.

We protect our clients. We fight for justice. And we ensure that speaking out doesn’t mean facing retaliation alone.

Legal Rights for Gunnison County Hazing Victims

Colorado Hazing Law Protects Your Child

Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-9-124 makes hazing a crime. It defines hazing as:

“Any activity by which a person recklessly endangers the health or safety of or causes a risk of bodily injury to an individual for purposes of initiation or admission into or affiliation with any student organization.”

This includes:

• Forced physical activity (like 500 squats)
• Forced consumption of food, alcohol, or drugs
• Waterboarding or simulated drowning
• Beating or paddling
• Sleep deprivation
• Psychological abuse

Colorado law explicitly states: “Consent of the victim is not a defense.” Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the law says that doesn’t matter. Hazing is illegal regardless of consent.

Civil Lawsuits Hold Institutions Accountable

In addition to criminal charges, Gunnison County families can file civil lawsuits to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses (hospitalization, treatment, therapy)
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Lost wages
• Academic disruption
• Punitive damages (to punish the wrongdoers)

Who can be sued in Gunnison County hazing cases:

• The local fraternity/sorority chapter
• The national organization
• The university or college
• Individual members who participated
• Housing corporations
• Alumni who facilitated

Statute of Limitations — Act Now

In Colorado, you typically have:

• 2 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit
• 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Your legal rights expire. Contact us immediately if your child has been hazed in Gunnison County.

What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Gunnison County

Immediate Steps:

1. Get medical attention — Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions (like rhabdomyolysis) can be life-threatening
2. Document everything — Take photos of injuries, save all communications (texts, social media, emails)
3. Preserve evidence — Don’t delete anything; fraternities often try to destroy evidence
4. Do NOT confront the organization — They will coordinate their story and intimidate witnesses
5. Do NOT post on social media — Anything you post can be used against you
6. Contact an attorney immediately — Free consultations available

How Attorney 911 Can Help Gunnison County Families:

• Free case evaluation — We’ll review your situation at no cost
• Evidence preservation — We’ll ensure critical evidence isn’t destroyed
• Medical documentation — We’ll coordinate with healthcare providers
• Legal strategy — We know how to build strong hazing cases
• Nationwide representation — We can pursue cases anywhere in America
• Contingency fee — You pay nothing unless we win your case

Why Choose Attorney 911 for Gunnison County Hazing Cases

We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now — And We’ll Fight for Gunnison County Families Too

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

Former Insurance Defense Attorneys — We Know Their Playbook

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

Federal Court Authority — We Can Pursue Cases Nationwide

We’re admitted to U.S. District Court and have federal litigation experience. This means we can pursue hazing cases against national organizations no matter where they’re headquartered. Distance is not a barrier to justice for Gunnison County families.

Dual-State Licensed — Texas and New York

We’re licensed in both Texas and New York, giving us strategic advantages when pursuing national fraternities and universities.

Bilingual Services — Se Habla Español

We understand that Gunnison County has a diverse community. Our staff is bilingual, and we can serve Spanish-speaking families without language barriers.

Proven Results in Complex Cases

• Currently litigating $10 million hazing case
• BP Texas City explosion litigation — multi-billion dollar mass tort experience
• Multi-million dollar settlements in personal injury cases
• Former insurance defense attorneys — insider knowledge of how to maximize claims

We Travel to Gunnison County

We will come to Gunnison County for:

• Client meetings
• Depositions
• Court appearances
• Trials

You don’t have to come to us — we come to you.

Contingency Fee — No Upfront Costs

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

• $0 upfront — You pay nothing to hire us
• $0 unless we win — We only get paid if you receive compensation
• No financial risk — If we don’t win, you owe us nothing

Gunnison County families shouldn’t have to choose between justice and financial security. With our contingency fee, they don’t have to.

The Attorney 911 Difference for Gunnison County Families

We See Your Child as a Person — Not a Paycheck

Too many lawyers see cases as dollar signs. We see hazing victims as people who’ve been betrayed by institutions they trusted. We see your child. And we fight for them with everything we have.

We Understand the Culture

Ralph Manginello is a Hall of Fame athlete and former youth coach. He understands team dynamics, locker room culture, and the pressures that lead to hazing. This insight helps us build stronger cases.

We’re Not Afraid of Big Institutions

Universities and national fraternities have deep pockets and experienced lawyers. We’re not intimidated. We’ve taken on massive corporations in court — and won.

We Protect Our Clients

Hazing victims often fear retribution for speaking out. We ensure our clients are protected throughout the legal process. Your safety and privacy are our priority.

Common Questions from Gunnison County Families

Q: My child was hazed but didn’t go to the hospital. Is it still worth pursuing a case?

A: Yes. Even without hospitalization, hazing can cause:

• Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
• Academic disruption
• Lost opportunities
• Emotional distress

We can pursue compensation for these non-physical injuries.

Q: The fraternity says my child “consented” to the activities. Does that matter?

A: No. Colorado law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the law says that doesn’t matter. Hazing is illegal regardless of consent.

Q: We’re worried about retaliation. How do you protect clients?

A: We take several steps to protect our clients:

• Confidentiality — We don’t disclose client identities without permission
• Legal protections — We can file motions to prevent retaliation
• Evidence handling — We ensure sensitive information is protected
• Coordination with authorities — We work with law enforcement when appropriate

Your safety is our priority.

Q: My child attends Western Colorado University. Can you still help us?

A: Absolutely. While we’re based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide. We can:

• Conduct consultations via video call
• Travel to Gunnison County for meetings and depositions
• File lawsuits in federal court if needed
• Coordinate with local counsel when necessary

Distance is not a barrier to justice for Gunnison County families.

Q: How much does it cost to hire you?

A: $0 upfront. We take hazing cases on contingency, which means:

• You pay nothing to hire us
• We advance all case expenses
• We only get paid if we win your case
• Our fee comes from the settlement/verdict, not from your pocket

If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

Q: How long does a hazing case take?

A: Every case is different, but hazing cases typically take:

• 6-12 months for minor injuries with clear liability
• 12-24 months for moderate injuries or contested cases
• 2-4 years for severe injuries or complex cases

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing compensation.

Q: Can we pursue both criminal and civil cases?

A: Yes. Criminal cases are handled by prosecutors and focus on punishing the wrongdoers. Civil cases are handled by private attorneys (like us) and focus on compensating the victim.

We can:

• Coordinate with criminal investigators
• Use criminal evidence in civil cases
• Pursue civil claims regardless of criminal outcomes

Gunnison County Hazing Cases We Can Handle

We represent Gunnison County families in all types of hazing cases, including:

The Hazing Crisis in Colorado

Colorado Has Seen Its Share of Hazing Tragedies

While Colorado hasn’t had as many high-profile hazing deaths as other states, the problem is real and present at Colorado universities, including those near Gunnison County:

• University of Colorado Boulder has faced multiple hazing investigations
• Colorado State University has suspended Greek organizations for hazing
• Western Colorado University has active Greek life with potential for hazing
• Numerous smaller colleges in Colorado have Greek organizations with hazing risks

Colorado Hazing Law — What Gunnison County Families Should Know

Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-9-124 makes hazing a crime:

(1) A person commits hazing if:
(a) With intent to cause bodily injury to another person, he or she knowingly causes such injury to any person; or
(b) Recklessly endangers the health or safety of or causes a risk of bodily injury to an individual for purposes of initiation or admission into or affiliation with any student organization.

Penalties:

• Class 3 Misdemeanor for reckless endangerment
• Class 2 Misdemeanor if bodily injury occurs
• Class 1 Misdemeanor if serious bodily injury occurs
• Class 4 Felony if death results

Key Provisions:

• Consent is not a defense — Even if the victim agreed to participate, hazing is still illegal
• Applies to all student organizations — Fraternities, sororities, sports teams, bands, clubs, etc.
• Applies to both on- and off-campus activities

Civil Liability for Colorado Hazing

In addition to criminal charges, Gunnison County families can file civil lawsuits to recover compensation. Colorado law allows lawsuits for:

• Negligence — Failure to protect students
• Premises liability — Dangerous conditions on property
• Assault and battery — Intentional harmful contact
• Intentional infliction of emotional distress — Extreme and outrageous conduct
• Wrongful death — If hazing results in death

Potential defendants in Colorado hazing cases:

• The local fraternity/sorority chapter
• The national organization
• The university or college
• Individual members who participated
• Housing corporations
• Alumni who facilitated

Western Colorado University Greek Life — What Gunnison County Families Should Watch For

Western Colorado University has active Greek organizations that may engage in hazing. Gunnison County families should be aware of:

Fraternities at Western Colorado University:

• Pi Kappa Phi — Same national organization we’re suing in Houston
• Sigma Chi
• Phi Delta Theta
• Other national fraternities

Sororities at Western Colorado University:

• Alpha Phi
• Delta Gamma
• Chi Omega
• Other national sororities

Warning Signs of Hazing at Western Colorado University:

• Sudden changes in behavior — Withdrawal, anxiety, depression
• Unexplained injuries — Bruises, burns, broken bones
• Secretive behavior — Avoiding questions about activities
• Exhaustion — Sleep deprivation is common in hazing
• Sudden academic decline — Hazing disrupts students’ ability to focus
• Possession of unusual items — Items used in hazing rituals
• Unexplained absences — Late-night or early-morning activities
• References to “traditions” or “brotherhood/sisterhood” — Often used to justify hazing

What Western Colorado University Should Be Doing:

• Regular inspections of Greek houses
• Anti-hazing training for all Greek organizations
• Clear reporting mechanisms for hazing incidents
• Swift disciplinary action against organizations that haze
• Transparency about hazing incidents

If Western Colorado University isn’t doing these things, they’re failing Gunnison County students.

How to Protect Your Child from Hazing in Gunnison County

Before College:

1. Research the school’s Greek life — Look for hazing incidents in the news
2. Talk to current students — Ask about the culture of specific organizations
3. Visit during recruitment — Observe how organizations present themselves
4. Set clear expectations — Discuss what is and isn’t acceptable
5. Teach your child to recognize hazing — Many students don’t realize they’re being hazed

During College:

1. Maintain open communication — Encourage your child to talk about their experiences
2. Watch for warning signs — Changes in behavior, unexplained injuries, exhaustion
3. Educate about resources — Make sure they know how to report hazing
4. Encourage them to trust their instincts — If something feels wrong, it probably is
5. Remind them it’s okay to leave — No organization is worth their safety

If Hazing Occurs:

1. Get medical attention — Some injuries aren’t immediately apparent
2. Document everything — Photos, communications, witness information
3. Report to authorities — Campus security, local police, Title IX office
4. Contact an attorney — Know your legal rights and options
5. Seek support — Counseling for psychological trauma

The Message to Fraternities Near Gunnison County

To Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Chi, Phi Delta Theta, and all other Greek organizations operating near Gunnison County:

We are watching.

The same legal strategies that secured $10+ million verdicts nationwide apply to your chapters. We track your house corporations, your alumni chapters, your national insurance structures.

If you haze students in Gunnison County, we will find every liable entity. We will pursue every insurance policy. We will hold every individual accountable.

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 Colorado.

If your Gunnison County chapter harms students, you could be next.

How Gunnison County Families Can Reach Us

Legal Emergency Hotline for Gunnison County Hazing Victims:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com

Free Consultation for Gunnison County Families:

• Call 24/7 — We’re available when you need us
• Video consultations — Meet with us remotely
• Travel to Gunnison County — We’ll come to you for meetings
• Contingency fee — You pay nothing unless we win

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

1. We listen — We’ll hear your story in detail
2. We evaluate — We’ll assess the strength of your case
3. We explain — We’ll outline your legal options
4. We plan — We’ll create a strategy tailored to your situation
5. We answer questions — We’ll address all your concerns

Gunnison County families: You don’t have to face this alone. We’re here to help.

The Time to Act Is Now

For Gunnison County Families:

Every day you wait is a day closer to losing your legal rights. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Statutes of limitations expire.

If your child has been hazed in Gunnison County, call us today.

For Western Colorado University:

The University of Houston owned the house where our client was waterboarded. They collected rent while students were tortured. They had the power to stop it — and they didn’t.

Western Colorado University has the same responsibility. They have the same power. Will they use it?

For National Fraternities:

Pi Kappa Phi had 8 years to fix their culture after Andrew Coffey died. They did nothing. Now another student has been hospitalized.

How many more students have to be hurt before you act?

A Final Message to Gunnison County Parents

Gunnison County families: Your child went to college expecting to be safe. They trusted their university. They trusted their fraternity or sorority. They trusted that these institutions would protect them.

That trust was betrayed.

We understand the pain you’re feeling. We understand the anger. And we’re here to turn that pain and anger into accountability.

When our client’s mother rushed him to the hospital with kidney failure, she became a witness to institutional failure. When Gunnison County families lose children to hazing, they deserve answers and justice.

We will fight for your Gunnison County family. We will honor your loved one by ensuring this never happens to another Gunnison County family.

The time to act is now.

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

Gunnison County hazing victims deserve justice. We’re here to deliver it.