If you’re reading this in Indiana, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went to college or joined an organization, hoping for friendship and community. Instead, they were subjected to abuse, humiliation, and potentially life-threatening hazing. We understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help families in Indiana fight back against the fraternities, sororities, universities, and individuals responsible.

Hazing is not a harmless rite of passage. It is not “boys being boys” or simple tradition. As we see with disturbing frequency, modern hazing is often torture, assault, and reckless endangerment, leading to severe injuries, psychological trauma, and even death. When your child is brutalized by an organization that promised fellowship, it is a betrayal of trust that no family should ever have to endure. We know the pain, anger, and fear that grips parents in Indiana when they discover their child has been victimized.

We are Attorney911, and we are actively fighting this battle right now. Our firm, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, is currently litigating a landmark $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and the University of Houston for severe hazing that led to a student’s hospitalization with acute kidney failure. This isn’t theoretical; this is real, ongoing, and aggressive legal action. We bring this same level of dedication, data-driven strategy, and relentless pursuit of justice to hazing victims and their families across the nation, including here in Indiana.

The Haunting Echoes of Campus Brutality: The Leonel Bermudez Case

Just weeks ago, a nightmare unfolded in Houston, Texas, a nightmare that resonates deeply with students and parents in Indiana. It’s a stark reminder that the same dangers lurk on campuses throughout your state. Our firm, Attorney911, filed a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court in November 2025, detailing the horrific hazing inflicted upon Leonel Bermudez by members of the University of Houston’s (UH) Pi Kappa Phi fraternity.

Leonel Bermudez wasn’t even an enrolled student at the University of Houston yet; he was a “ghost rush,” a prospective transfer student planning to officially join in the spring semester. Yet, he was subjected to nearly two months of systematic abuse, humiliation, and physical torment by fraternity members. This was not a few harmless pranks; it was intentional, calculated brutality.

Here’s a glimpse into the terror Leonel endured, as detailed in our lawsuit and reported by news outlets like ABC13 Houston and KHOU 11:

• Waterboarding with a Garden Hose: Perhaps the most shocking accusation, Leonel was subjected to simulated waterboarding, being sprayed directly in the face with a garden hose while performing calisthenics. As Houston Public Media rightly noted, “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.”
• Extreme Physical Punishment: He was forced to perform grueling exercises to the point of collapse, including over 100 pushups, 500 squats, “high-volume suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. This wasn’t just exercise; it was forced exertion designed to break him.
• Being Struck with Wooden Paddles: Physical assault was a routine part of his initiation, including being hit with wooden paddles.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Leonel and other pledges were made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and even peppercorns until they vomited, then ordered to continue running sprints while “clearly in physical distress” and forced to “lie in vomit-soaked grass.”
• Psychological Torture and Humiliation: This included being coerced to carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature “at all times,” being stripped to his underwear in cold weather, and witnessing another pledge hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.
• Sleep Deprivation and Coercion: He was routinely forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, leading to exhaustion, and threatened with physical punishment or expulsion if he failed to comply with any of the demands.

The consequences for Leonel were devastating. After a particularly brutal session on November 3, 2025, where he was punished for missing an event and pushed past his physical limits, he could barely move. As Ralph Manginello recounted to 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.”

Leonel was hospitalized for three nights and four days, diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. Rhabdomyolysis is a dangerous condition where muscle tissue breaks down, releasing toxins that damage the kidneys. It can be fatal and can lead to permanent kidney damage.

Why this case is so important for Indiana families:

• Pi Kappa Phi has over 150 chapters nationwide, including near Indiana institutions like Indiana University Bloomington, Purdue University, Ball State University, and Butler University. The same national fraternity that allowed this to happen in Houston operates in your community.
• The same “traditions” of abuse that hospitalized Leonel can easily occur at Indiana fraternities. Hazing culture is not confined by state lines.
• Indiana universities face the same legal liabilities as the University of Houston. UH’s own spokesperson admitted the events were “deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards,” and mentioned “potential criminal charges.” This is an institution recognizing profound failure.
• This $10 million lawsuit demonstrates our commitment. We don’t just talk about hazing; we’re actively fighting it in court, demanding justice for victims and accountability from every responsible party. We are ready to bring that aggressive representation to Indiana. As Lupe Peña stated to ABC13, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Parents in Indiana send their children to college expecting them to be safe, to learn, and to grow. Not to be tortured and hospitalized. The Leonel Bermudez case is a stark warning, but it’s also a beacon of hope, showing that victims can fight back and win against powerful institutions.

What Hazing Really Looks Like Today

For many parents in Indiana, the word “hazing” might conjure images of silly pranks or harmless dares from decades ago. We often hear phrases like “boys will be boys” or “it’s just a tradition that builds character.” Let us be clear: the reality of modern hazing, as tragically demonstrated by cases like Leonel Bermudez’s and countless others across the country, is far more sinister. It is not building character; it is breaking it. It is not harmless; it is dangerous, criminal, and often fatal.

This is not about making new friends by doing a silly dance or carrying a fake paddle. This is institutionalized violence. This is systemic abuse. And it can happen at colleges and universities throughout Indiana, from the bustling campuses of Indiana University Bloomington and Purdue, to the tight-knit communities of Ball State or Butler University.

What modern hazing looks like:

• Physical Torture and Extreme Exertion:

  • Simulated Waterboarding: As Leonel Bermudez experienced, being sprayed forcefully in the face with a garden hose, creating the sensation of drowning. This is a form of torture.
  • Forced “Workouts” to the Point of Organ Failure: Hundreds of pushups and squats, bear crawls, “suicides,” and other exercises performed until muscles break down, leading to conditions like rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, as our client suffered. Another pledge in the Pi Kappa Phi case even lost consciousness during these forced drills.
  • Paddling and Beatings: Being struck with wooden paddles, belts, or other objects, leaving bruises, welts, and internal injuries.
  • Exposure to the Elements: Forced to stand for hours in extreme cold or heat, or stripped to underwear and sprayed with water, risking hypothermia or heatstroke.
  • Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often forced to stay awake for extended periods, driving members, performing tasks, or engaging in late-night activities, leading to exhaustion, impaired judgment, and accidents.

• Forced Consumption of Dangerous Substances:

  • Binge Drinking: Perhaps the most common and deadliest form of hazing, where pledges are forced to consume massive quantities of alcohol in short periods, leading to alcohol poisoning, coma, and death. Max Gruver at LSU with Phi Delta Theta, Timothy Piazza at Penn State with Beta Theta Pi, and Andrew Coffey at FSU with Pi Kappa Phi are tragic examples of this.
  • Eating Until Vomiting: Forcing pledges to eat inedible or excessive amounts of food, sometimes mixed with disgusting substances, until they vomit, only to be further humiliated or forced to continue. Leonel Bermudez was forced to eat large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited, then made to run through it.
  • Ingestion of Non-Food Items: Swallowing strange or dangerous substances.

• Psychological and Emotional Abuse:

  • Extreme Humiliation and Degradation: Being forced to wear degrading costumes, carry sexually explicit objects (like Leonel’s fanny pack), or perform humiliating acts in public or private.
  • Verbal Abuse and Intimidation: Constant yelling, insults, threats, and intimidation tactics designed to break down a pledge’s self-esteem and enforce obedience.
  • Social Isolation: Being forbidden from interacting with non-fraternity members or even certain family members, fostering dependence on the group.
  • “Interrogations” and “Lineups”: Being subjected to intense questioning, often while standing for hours or in uncomfortable positions, sometimes accompanied by physical punishment.
  • Threats of Retaliation: Pledges are often explicitly warned against reporting hazing, with threats of physical harm, social ostracization, or damage to their academic/social standing. This is why our client, Leonel Bermudez, is fearful of retribution.

• Sexual Harassment and Assault: Hazing can escalate to forced nudity, sexually suggestive acts, or even sexual assault. This is an egregious violation that can lead to lifelong trauma.

The Devastating Consequences that Impact Indiana Families:

The outcomes of this brutality are far-reaching and devastating:

• Severe Physical Injuries: Broken bones, burns, internal organ damage (like Leonel’s kidney failure), concussions, dehydration, hypothermia, brain damage, and even death.
• Acute Alcohol Poisoning: A leading cause of hazing deaths.
• Psychological Trauma: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, loss of trust, and long-term emotional scars.
• Academic and Career Derailment: Forced to drop out, failing grades, lost scholarships, and damaged future career prospects.
• Financial Burden: Massive medical bills, therapy costs, and lost income.

Parents in Indiana need to understand that this is the face of hazing in America today. It is not a joke, and it should never be tolerated. The tragedy and trauma extend far beyond the individual victim, impacting families, friends, and entire communities in Indiana.

Holding All Responsible Parties Accountable for Hazing in Indiana

When hazing shatters a student’s life in Indiana, the anger is immense, and the quest for justice begins. Our approach at Attorney911, as demonstrated in our aggressive pursuit of the Pi Kappa Phi and University of Houston case, is to cast a wide net, holding every single entity responsible accountable. This includes not just the students who are directly involved, but the organizations themselves, their national leadership, and the institutions that provide them a home.

Here are the categories of defendants we target in hazing litigation, and why each bears responsibility:

1. The Individual Perpetrators:
These are the fraternity or sorority members, officers, and alumni who directly plan, execute, or participate in hazing activities.

• Why they are liable: They commit assault, battery, false imprisonment, and other intentional torts. In states like Indiana with robust anti-hazing laws, they can also face criminal charges. In our Houston case, we named the fraternity president, pledgemaster, several current members, and even former members and their spouse who hosted hazing at their residence. As the $6.5 million judgment against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president in the Stone Foltz case, clearly shows, individual officers can and should be held personally liable.

2. The Local Chapter:
This refers to the specific fraternity or sorority chapter on an Indiana university campus that conducted the hazing.

• Why they are liable: The chapter itself, as an organized entity, is vicariously liable for the actions of its members under its direction. They often enforce the “traditions” and create the environment where hazing flourishes. They may directly organize and conduct the abusive activities.

3. The National Fraternity or Sorority Organization:
These are the large, multi-million dollar corporate entities that oversee hundreds of chapters across the country, including in Indiana. Pi Kappa Phi, the national fraternity in our Houston case, has over 150 chapters nationwide.

• Why they are liable: National organizations often have extensive funds and liability insurance policies. They are responsible for:
  • Failure to Supervise: They have a duty to oversee their local chapters and ensure compliance with anti-hazing policies. When they fail to do so, and hazing occurs, they are liable.
  • Failure to Enforce Policies: They frequently have anti-hazing policies, but often fail to properly enforce them. As alleged in our lawsuit and reported by KHOU 11, Pi Kappa Phi National “failed to enforce anti-hazing rules and policies despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'”
  • Pattern of Hazing: When a national organization has a history of hazing incidents across multiple chapters, it establishes a pattern of negligence and a knowing disregard for student safety. The fact that Andrew Coffey died in a Pi Kappa Phi hazing incident in 2017, just eight years before Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized, is devastating evidence of this pattern.
  • Responsibility for Culture: They cultivate a national culture and set the “traditions” that often foster hazing.

4. The University or College:
The educational institution itself, such as Indiana University Bloomington, Purdue University, or Ball State University, where the hazing took place or involved their recognized student organizations.

• Why they are liable: Universities and colleges have a significant responsibility to protect their students, especially when they grant recognition and resources to Greek letter organizations. Their liability stems from:
  • Duty to Protect Students: They owe a duty of care to their students to provide a safe environment.
  • Negligent Supervision: Failure to adequately supervise Greek life, enforce university anti-hazing policies, or respond effectively to previous incidents. In our Houston case, the University of Houston is a defendant because, among other things, they owned the fraternity house where some hazing occurred. This creates direct premises liability. Furthermore, UH had a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017, clearly putting them on notice of the dangers on their campus.
  • Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on university-owned property (like a fraternity house), the university, as the property owner, can be held liable for dangerous conditions.
  • Institutional Knowledge: If the university knew or should have known about hazing within its Greek system and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it, they are liable.

5. Fraternity/Sorority Housing Corporations:
These are separate corporate entities that often own or manage the physical fraternity or sorority houses, even if those houses are on or adjacent to university land. They are explicitly named in our Houston case.

• Why they are liable: They have a duty to maintain safe premises and often serve as financial conduits for the chapter. They can be held liable for allowing dangerous activities to occur on property they own or manage.

6. Individual Alumni or Advisors:
Alumni who continue to advise, influence, or directly participate in chapter activities, or those (like former members and their spouses in our case) who host hazing at their private residences.

• Why they are liable: They can be held liable for their direct involvement, negligent supervision, or for providing a venue where hazing occurs. Alumni often have more substantial assets than current students, making them significant targets for accountability.

7. Insurance Carriers:
Every national fraternity, university, and often individuals, will have liability insurance policies.

• Why they are liable: These policies are designed to cover the very types of injuries and damages that arise from hazing incidents. As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña possess invaluable insider knowledge of how these insurance companies operate, allowing us to anticipate their tactics and aggressively pursue the maximum possible recovery for our clients.

When we take on a hazing case in Indiana, we don’t guess who is responsible. We conduct a thorough investigation, drawing on our experience and the extensive data we maintain on Greek organizations, to identify every single entity that can be held liable. Our goal is not just compensation, but systemic change, and that means making every responsible party pay.

Milestones of Justice: What Hazing Cases Can Win for Indiana Victims

The horrifying reality of hazing often leaves families in Indiana feeling powerless. But take heart: landmark verdicts and multi-million dollar settlements across the country demonstrate that justice can be won. These cases set powerful precedents, sending a clear message to fraternities, universities, and national organizations that the cost of hazing is astronomical. The same fierce legal strategies that brought these results are precisely what we bring to every hazing case in Indiana.

We don’t just talk about justice; we achieve it. Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is in line with, and in many ways exceeds, the egregiousness found in these precedent-setting cases.

Here are just a few examples that show what is possible for Indiana hazing victims:

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

Total Payout: Over $10.1 Million

In 2021, Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old student at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a Pi Kappa Alpha “Big/Little” event. Pledges were forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol.

• BGSU paid $2.9 million. This demonstrates that universities themselves bear significant financial liability for hazing on their campuses.
• Pi Kappa Alpha National and individuals paid $7.2 million. This shows that national fraternities with their deep pockets and their individual members are held financially responsible.
• In December 2024, the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was ordered to pay an additional $6.5 million in personal liability. This serves as a stark warning to individual fraternity members that they are not immune from personal accountability.
• The Stone Foltz case led to the passage of “Collin’s Law” in Ohio, making hazing a felony and increasing penalties.

What This Means for Indiana: Our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is directly comparable to this tragic outcome. If your child in Indiana suffers, we will pursue the university, the national fraternity, and the individuals with the same tenacity.

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

Total Payout: $6.1 Million Verdict

In 2017, LSU freshman Max Gruver, an 18-year-old, died from acute alcohol poisoning after a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” hazing event. Pledges were forced to chug hard liquor for incorrect answers to trivia questions. His blood alcohol content was a fatal 0.495.

• A jury awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million in a civil lawsuit. This is critical: juries are outraged by hazing and are willing to award substantial damages.
• Several fraternity members faced criminal charges, with one convicted of negligent homicide.
• The case spurred the creation of the “Max Gruver Act” in Louisiana, making hazing a felony offense.

What This Means for Indiana: Hazing is happening today at institutions in Indiana. A jury in Indiana will likely react with similar outrage to egregious hazing conduct, especially if there’s clear evidence of intentional harm, such as the waterboarding and physical abuse in our Bermudez case.

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

Total Payout: Estimated $110 Million+ (Multiple Settlements)

In 2017, Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old student at Penn State, died after a Beta Theta Pi hazing ritual involving forced alcohol consumption (“the gauntlet” – 18 drinks in 82 minutes). He suffered a fatal brain injury after falling down stairs during his severe intoxication, and fraternity members tragically waited 12 hours to call for help.

• The Piazza family reached a series of confidential settlements totaling an estimated over $110 million from numerous defendants, including the national fraternity and Penn State University.
• Multiple fraternity members faced criminal charges, with some convicted of involuntary manslaughter.
• This case led to the comprehensive “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law” in Pennsylvania.

What This Means for Indiana: The Piazza case underlines a crucial point: when clear and compelling evidence exists (especially video, as in Piazza’s case, or the detailed allegations and prior history in Bermudez’), settlements can be astronomical. Our data-driven approach means we seek to uncover every piece of evidence to build the strongest possible case for Indiana victims.

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

Total Payout: Settlement (Confidential) + Criminal Charges

Tragically, Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old Florida State student, died in 2017 from alcohol poisoning during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” ritual where he was forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon. This is the same national fraternity involved in our Leonel Bermudez case.

• Nine fraternity members were charged with hazing.
• The Pi Kappa Phi chapter at FSU was permanently closed.
• His family reached a confidential settlement.

What This Means for Indiana: The Andrew Coffey case is a smoking gun for Pi Kappa Phi. It proves that the national organization had actual notice in 2017 that their chapters engaged in deadly hazing. The fact that Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized eight years later under similar circumstances (same fraternity, extreme hazing) demonstrates a horrific pattern of negligence and a failure to act, making Pi Kappa Phi National highly vulnerable to substantial punitive damages in our ongoing $10 million lawsuit. This pattern evidence is invaluable for any hazing case against Pi Kappa Phi chapters in Indiana.

These cases are not isolated incidents; they represent a nationwide pattern of abuse and institutional failure. They unequivocally prove that a hazing victim’s life-altering injuries or wrongful death can lead to multi-million dollar recoveries. For parents in Indiana, these precedents mean that justice, even against the largest universities and national fraternities, is not just a hope—it’s an achievable reality with the right legal team.

Strong Laws Protect Indiana Hazing Victims

When your child is harmed by hazing, it’s not just a personal tragedy; it’s a violation of the law. While our firm is based in Texas, the legal principles that underpin our successful hazing litigation, including the $10 million lawsuit in the Bermudez case, are universal. Many states, including Indiana, have strong anti-hazing laws that empower victims and their families. Furthermore, fundamental civil liability theories, such as negligence and assault, provide avenues for justice regardless of state statutes.

Indiana’s Anti-Hazing Law

Indiana, like many states, has enacted laws specifically to combat hazing. While some details may differ from Texas law, the core protections are often similar, and the spirit of holding perpetrators accountable is equally strong.

In general, Indiana’s anti-hazing laws prohibit conduct that:

• Endangers Mental or Physical Health: Any act that creates an unreasonable risk of harm to a student’s mental or physical well-being.
• Occurs for Initiation or Membership: The act must be connected to joining, pledging, or maintaining membership in an organization, regardless of whether it happens on or off campus.
• Consent is Not a Defense: Critically, many anti-hazing statutes, similar to Texas Education Code § 37.154, explicitly state that a victim’s “consent” to hazing is NOT a defense to prosecution or civil liability. This is vital because fraternities often try to shift blame by claiming the victim willingly participated. The law recognizes that true consent cannot be given under duress, coercion, or the threat of social exclusion.

Penalties under Indiana’s anti-hazing laws can include:

• Criminal Charges: Individuals directly involved in hazing may face misdemeanor or even felony charges, depending on the severity of the injury. If hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, the penalties escalate significantly.
• Organizational Sanctions: Universities and national organizations can be stripped of their recognition, fined, or banned from operating in the state if they condone or fail to prevent hazing.

These laws provide a powerful foundation for our legal efforts, working in conjunction with broader civil liability claims.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Charges, Securing Compensation

Even if criminal charges are not pursued or do not result in a conviction, civil lawsuits allow Indiana victims to seek substantial financial compensation for their suffering. These civil claims are typically tried in state courts in Indiana, and our team has the expertise to navigate such legal landscapes.

Here are the key civil liability theories we employ:

1. Negligence: This is often a primary claim against individuals, fraternities, national organizations, and universities. We prove that they:

   • Owed a Duty of Care: An obligation to protect the student (e.g., a university’s duty to provide a safe campus, a national fraternity’s duty to supervise its chapters).
   • Breached That Duty: They failed to act reasonably to prevent hazing (e.g., ignoring red flags, failing to enforce policies, providing excessive alcohol). The University of Houston, for example, is a defendant in our current lawsuit for these exact reasons, especially since they owned the property where Leonel Bermudez was hazed and even had a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017.
   • Caused the Injuries: Their breach directly led to the student’s injuries.
   • Resulted in Damages: The injuries resulted in quantifiable (economic) and non-quantifiable (non-economic) losses.

2. Premises Liability: If hazing takes place on property owned or controlled by the university (like a fraternity house), the institution can be held liable as a property owner for unsafe conditions. Similarly, if hazing occurs at a private residence, the homeowner can be liable for allowing dangerous activities.

3. Negligent Supervision: This applies when national fraternities fail to adequately supervise their local Indiana chapters, or when Indiana universities fail to monitor Greek life activities. The “hazing crisis” and prior incidents at UH, uncovered in our Leonel Bermudez case, demonstrate this clear failure of supervision.

4. Assault and Battery: These are direct claims against individual perpetrators who intentionally cause harmful or offensive contact. Waterboarding, paddling, or forced physical exertion for injury are clear examples.

5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): This claim addresses the profound psychological harm caused by hazing. It applies when conduct is so outrageous and extreme as to cause severe emotional distress, such as the waterboarding and humiliation Leonel endured.

6. Wrongful Death: If hazing tragically leads to a student’s death, families in Indiana can file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation for their immense loss, including funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support.

7. Conspiracy/Aiding and Abetting: Those who conspire to commit hazing or who knowingly aid and abet the perpetrators can also be held liable, connecting individuals who may not have been physically present for every act.

Important Note for Indiana Families: The 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases in Indiana (similar to Texas) is a critical deadline. This means you generally have two years from the date of injury or death to file a lawsuit. However, hazing cases are complex, and evidence can disappear quickly. It is crucial to act immediately.

The legal framework is robust, providing multiple avenues for pursuing justice and compensation for hazing victims in Indiana. We know how to leverage these laws to protect your child’s rights and hold every responsible party accountable.

Why Attorney911 Is the Choice for Indiana Hazing Victims

When your family in Indiana is reeling from the trauma of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the unique complexities of these cases. Attorney911, though headquartered in Houston, offers unmatched expertise and a proven track record that makes us the obvious choice for hazing victims and their families across the nation, including here in Indiana.

Here’s why Indiana families choose us:

1. Currently Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit: We aren’t theoretical. We are on the front lines, fighting one of the most high-profile hazing cases in the country right now. Our aggressive $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for the waterboarding and kidney failure of Leonel Bermudez demonstrates our active commitment and expertise. This direct, real-time experience means families in Indiana benefit from cutting-edge litigation strategies and immediate application of current hazing legal developments. We bring this same fight to Indiana.

2. Unrivaled Insider Knowledge: Former Insurance Defense Attorneys: Both our managing partner, Ralph P. Manginello, and associate attorney, Lupe Eleno Peña, previously worked as insurance defense lawyers. This isn’t a coincidence; it’s a strategic advantage for you.

   • Ralph Manginello: Our founder and president, Mr. Manginello has over 25 years of courtroom experience. He has seen the insurance company’s playbook from the inside. He knows their tactics, their valuation methods, and their strategies to minimize payouts. Now, he uses that knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for our clients.
   • Lupe Peña: Mr. Peña honed his skills at Litchfield Cavo LLP, a national insurance defense firm, where he defended insurance companies and corporations across multiple practice areas. He learned firsthand how large insurance companies value claims and strategize defenses. This insider intelligence is invaluable when negotiating with or litigating against the deep pockets of national fraternities and universities in Indiana.
   • The Unfair Advantage: Together, they represent a combined 37+ years of legal experience, providing an “unfair advantage” for victims, as they truly understand how the other side thinks and operates.

3. Nationwide Reach and Federal Court Authority: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our ability to serve Indiana hazing victims is absolute.

   • Federal Court Admissions: Both Mr. Manginello and Mr. Peña are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial when dealing with national fraternities and universities, which often have interstate operations. We can pursue your Indiana hazing case in federal jurisdiction when appropriate, offering a strategic advantage.
   • Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas and New York. This dual-state bar admission provides a strategic advantage for cases against national fraternity and sorority organizations that might be headquartered in any state.
   • Willingness to Travel: Distance is not a barrier to justice. We are committed to traveling to Indiana for depositions, client meetings, and trials as needed to aggressively represent your child’s interests.
   • Remote Consultations: Indiana families can easily schedule video consultations with our attorneys, making access to our expertise convenient and accessible, regardless of your location within Indiana.

4. Hazing-Specific Expertise and Prior Rhabdomyolysis Cases: Mr. Manginello has direct experience with fraternity litigation, rhabdomyolysis cases (like Leonel Bermudez’s), and holding universities accountable. This specialized knowledge means we understand the medical complexities and the unique dynamics of Greek life hazing.

5. Capacity to Take on Massive Corporate Defendants: Ralph Manginello’s involvement in the multi-billion dollar BP Texas City Explosion litigation (which killed 15 workers and injured 180+) demonstrates our firm’s capability to handle complex, high-stakes litigation against massive corporate defendants—the same level of opposition presented by national fraternities and major universities in Indiana.

6. Journalism Background: Mr. Manginello’s Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Texas at Austin has given him skills critical for hazing litigation: the ability to investigate, uncover facts, and tell compelling stories to juries, exposing what institutions want to hide.

7. Contingency Fee Basis: No Upfront Cost for Indiana Families: We understand that dealing with the trauma of hazing comes with immense financial strain. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means:

   • You pay $0 upfront.
   • We don’t get paid unless and until you get paid. Our interests are perfectly aligned with yours.
   • This removes financial barriers, allowing Indiana families to pursue justice against powerful institutions without worrying about hourly legal fees. You can find more details on how contingency fees work in our video explanation at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc.

8. Compassionate and Aggressive Representation: Our firm’s Google My Business rating of 4.9 Stars from over 250 reviews speaks volumes. Clients consistently highlight our communication, responsiveness, and genuine care. Phrases like “You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such” (Chad Harris) and “They all go above and beyond and really care about you as a person” (Ambur Hamilton) reflect our commitment. For Indiana families, we offer both the warmth and empathy needed during a crisis, combined with the “true PITT BULL and fighter” (Chad Harris) mentality required to win.

9. Bilingual Services (Se Habla Español): Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, ensuring that Hispanic families in Indiana can navigate the legal process without language barriers.

Choosing Attorney911 means partnering with a legal team that is not just highly experienced, but deeply committed to fighting for hazing victims. We have the internal knowledge, the national reach, the federal court authority, and the proven track record needed to secure justice and meaningful compensation for your family in Indiana. We are ready to bring the same aggressive, data-driven fight from Houston directly to your doorstep.

What to Do Right Now if Your Child Was Hazed in Indiana

If you’re a parent in Indiana reading this, it’s likely because your family is living through a nightmare. Your child has been victimized by hazing, and you’re searching for answers, justice, and protection. The immediate aftermath of a hazing incident can be chaotic and overwhelming, but taking the right steps quickly is crucial to protecting your child’s legal rights and ensuring accountability.

Here’s what you and your child should do right now:

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Attention

• Remove Your Child from the Immediate Situation: If the hazing environment is ongoing or your child is still in danger, ensure their physical safety first.
• Seek Medical Care Immediately: Even if injuries seem minor, or your child resists because of shame or fear, it is critical to get a full medical evaluation. Conditions like rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure (as in the Bermudez case) often have delayed or subtle symptoms. Adrenaline can mask pain.
  • Go to the Emergency Room: If there are severe injuries, unconsciousness, excessive alcohol consumption, or any doubt about their health, go to the nearest emergency room in Indiana immediately.
  • Follow Up with Doctors: Ensure your child continues to see medical professionals (PCP, specialists, therapists) to document all physical and psychological injuries.
  • Medical Records are Key: These documents will be vital evidence in your case. They provide objective proof of the harm suffered.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence – Now (CRITICAL for Indiana Hazing Cases)

Hazing organizations and universities will often try to destroy or hide evidence. You must act quickly. As Ralph Manginello continuously preaches, “Take pictures. Take pictures. Take pictures. Take more pictures than you think you need to.” Our video on documenting evidence, “Using Your Phone to Document Evidence,” available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs, is an invaluable resource.

• Photographs and Videos:
  • Injuries: Take clear, close-up photos of all bruises, cuts, burns, swelling, or other physical marks. Document them daily as they change.
  • Hazing Locations: If safe, photograph the fraternity house, meeting place, or any other location where hazing occurred.
  • Physical Evidence: Capture images of any objects used in the hazing (e.g., paddles, alcohol containers, degrading items), or relevant surroundings (e.g., hazing schedules, rules posted).
• Digital Communications (DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING!):
  • Screenshots: Take screenshots of all relevant text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat conversations (before they disappear), Instagram DMs, Facebook messages, and emails.
  • Social Media Posts: Search for any social media posts by the perpetrators, the chapter, or even other pledges that might allude to hazing.
  • Save EVERYTHING: Digital evidence is often the smoking gun. Do not delete “old” messages, even if they seem irrelevant, as deletion can be seen as destruction of evidence.
• Witness Information:
  • Other Pledges: Silently gather names and contact information for other pledges and any witnesses (students, alumni, or even bystanders) who may have seen or known about the hazing. Their testimony can be invaluable.
  • Instruct Them: Advise potential witnesses NOT to talk to the fraternity or university administration without legal counsel.
• Hazing Documents: Any “pledge manuals,” schedules, rules, or communications your child received from the organization.
• Financial Records: Keep track of all medical bills, therapy costs, expenses for missed classes/tutoring, and any lost wages if your child was employed.
• Academic Records: Document any impact on grades, enrollment status, or scholarships. This helps quantify damages.

Step 3: Crucial “DO NOTs” to Protect Your Case

These mistakes can severely damage your ability to seek justice. Our video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY explains this in detail.

• DO NOT Talk to the Fraternity/Sorority, University Administration, or Their Lawyers: They are not on your side. Their primary goal is to protect their organization, minimize liability, and gather information that can be used against you. Any statement your child makes can be twisted. Direct all communication through your attorney.
• DO NOT Give Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters will try to get your child to give a recorded statement. Refuse. They are trained to elicit information that diminishes your claim.
• DO NOT Sign Anything: Do not sign any “waivers,” “confidentiality agreements,” or other documents given to you by the fraternity/sorority or university without consulting an attorney. You could unwittingly waive your rights.
• DO NOT Post on Social Media: Anything your child posts—photos of them “looking fine,” comments about the incident, or even unrelated party photos—can and will be used by the defense to discredit their injuries or narrative. Stay silent online.
• DO NOT Accept Initial Settlement Offers: Insurance companies will almost always offer a lowball settlement early on, hoping you’ll take it out of desperation before you understand the full extent of your damages.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Hazing Litigation Attorney Immediately

Time is of the essence. The Indiana statute of limitations typically gives you two years from the date of injury or death to file a hazing lawsuit. However, hazing cases are complex, and evidence can disappear quickly.

• Call Us Now: We offer free, confidential consultations for families in Indiana. You can reach us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We will immediately assess your case and advise you on the best course of action.
• Why Speed Matters: The sooner we are involved, the sooner we can:
  • Send legal letters demanding preservation of evidence to all potential defendants.
  • Begin our independent investigation before crucial evidence is lost or destroyed.
  • Protect your child from manipulation by the fraternity/university.
  • Ensure all necessary legal deadlines are met.
• We Will Come to You: While headquartered in Houston, we are fully prepared to travel to Indiana for depositions, client meetings, or trials to aggressively represent your family. We also offer easy video consultations, so you can connect with our expert team from the comfort and privacy of your home in Indiana.

If your child has been subjected to the horrors of hazing in Indiana, please do not suffer in silence. The justice system exists to protect victims and hold powerful institutions accountable. With Attorney911 on your side, you have fierce, experienced advocates ready to fight for your child’s rights and future.

Contact Attorney911: Your Legal Emergency Hotline for Hazing in Indiana

If you’re a parent in Indiana whose child has suffered from hazing, you are facing a legal emergency. The trauma is real, the betrayal is profound, and the need for justice is immediate. We are Attorney911, and we are ready to answer that call. Our aggressive representation is not just a promise; it’s a proven reality, as demonstrated by our ongoing $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We will bring that same relentless fight to secure justice for your family in Indiana.

Immediate Help for Indiana Families:

📞 CALL US 24/7: 1-888-ATTY-911

• Free, Confidential Consultation: Your first conversation with us costs absolutely nothing, and there’s no obligation. We’re here to listen, assess your situation, and provide clear legal guidance at a time when you need it most.
• No Upfront Fees: We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay us $0 upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice against powerful institutions without financial stress.
• Email Us: If you prefer, you can reach out directly to Ralph Manginello at ralph@atty911.com.
• Visit Our Website: Learn more about our commitment to hazing victims at attorney911.com.

We Serve Indiana Hazing Victims, No Matter Where It Happened:

While our firm is based in Texas with offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our expertise and reach extend nationwide. Hazing is a national crisis, and we are equipped to support victims and their families in Indiana and across the United States.

• We Travel to Indiana: We are committed to justice wherever it leads. Our attorneys are prepared to travel to Indiana for crucial depositions, important meetings, and trial proceedings to ensure your case receives the personalized attention it deserves. Distance will not be a barrier to securing your child’s future.
• Remote Consultations: For your convenience and privacy, we offer video consultations, allowing you to connect with our legal team from anywhere in Indiana without the need for travel.
• Federal Court Authority: Our admission to the U.S. District Court means we can pursue complex hazing cases against national fraternities and universities in federal court, bringing powerful leverage to your Indiana case.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: With licensure in both Texas and New York, our firm possesses the flexibility and legal foundation to challenge national organizations wherever they operate or are incorporated.

The Broader Impact of Hazing: Beyond Greek Life in Indiana

Hazing is not limited to fraternities and sororities. We represent victims of hazing in all types of organizations across Indiana and beyond, including:

• Indiana Sports Teams: From high school to collegiate athletics.
• University Clubs and Organizations: Any student group that uses abusive initiation rituals.
• Marching Bands and Fine Arts Groups: Hazing can occur in any hierarchical student organization.
• ROTC Programs and Military Schools: Even organizations valuing discipline can fall prey to hazing.

For Other Victims of UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

We know Leonel Bermudez was not the only one. Our lawsuit details how another pledge collapsed on October 15, and the systematic nature of the abuse indicates a pervasive pattern. If you or someone you know was also victimized by the Pi Kappa Phi chapter at the University of Houston, you have rights too. We can represent you, and together, we can strengthen the demand for justice. As Lupe Peña said, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Let Us Fight for Your Indiana Family:

Your child’s pain and trauma are unacceptable. The institutions and individuals who subjected them to hazing must be held accountable. With Attorney911, you gain experienced, empathetic, and aggressive legal advocates dedicated to fighting for your family in Indiana. We are legal emergency lawyers, and we are here to shut down your hazing emergency.

Don’t wait. The clock is ticking on your legal rights, and evidence can disappear. Contact Attorney911 today for a free consultation. Let us help you turn your family’s nightmare into a powerful statement for justice.