Hazing Lawyers in Johnson County, Nebraska – Attorney 911 Fights for Victims

Justice for Johnson County Students Subjected to Abuse

Johnson County families: Your child trusted their university. They trusted their fraternity or sorority. They trusted that these institutions would keep them safe. That trust was betrayed.

At Attorney 911, we are currently fighting a landmark $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston – and we bring that same aggressive representation to Johnson County, Nebraska. If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Johnson County, we can help.

Call now for a free, confidential consultation:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911

The Hazing Crisis in Johnson County – What Families Need to Know

Hazing isn’t “tradition.” It isn’t “building character.” It isn’t “just part of college.” It’s abuse. It’s assault. It’s torture. And it’s happening at colleges and universities near Johnson County.

What Johnson County Parents Should Watch For:

• Physical abuse: Beatings, forced exercise to exhaustion, exposure to extreme temperatures
• Forced consumption: Alcohol poisoning risks, eating until vomiting, consuming dangerous substances
• Psychological torture: Waterboarding, humiliation, sleep deprivation
• Sexual abuse: Forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects
• Medical emergencies: Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown), kidney failure, traumatic brain injury

Our client in Houston was waterboarded with a garden hose. He was forced to do 500 squats until his muscles broke down and he was hospitalized with kidney failure. This happens at Johnson County-area universities too.

Why Johnson County Families Choose Attorney 911

1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now

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 courtroom fighting for victims today. Johnson County families get the same aggressive representation.

2. Nationwide Reach – We Serve Johnson County

While based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including in Johnson County, Nebraska. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) allow us to pursue cases against national fraternities and sororities no matter where they’re headquartered.

3. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

Both of our attorneys – Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena – are former insurance defense lawyers. We know how insurance companies think. We know their playbook. We know how to dismantle their defenses. This gives Johnson County victims an unfair advantage.

4. Federal Court Authority

We’re admitted to practice in U.S. District Court and have experience in federal appellate courts. This allows us to pursue Johnson County cases in federal jurisdiction when appropriate.

5. Proven Track Record

• Recovered millions for personal injury victims
• Currently litigating $10 million hazing case
• Experience with rhabdomyolysis injuries from hazing
• Former BP Texas City explosion litigation (mass tort experience)
• 25+ years of courtroom experience

6. We Come to Johnson County

For depositions, client meetings, and trials, we travel to Johnson County. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

7. Contingency Fee – $0 Upfront

Johnson County families pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. You don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you.

The Hazing Case That’s Shaking Johnson County – And Why It Matters to You

Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi – The $10 Million Fight

What happened in Houston can happen in Johnson County. This case shows exactly what hazing looks like – and what we’re fighting against.

The victim: Leonel Bermudez, a transfer student who wasn’t even enrolled at University of Houston yet. He was a “ghost rush” – expected to transfer for Spring 2026.

The abuse:

• Waterboarded with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
• Forced to do 500 squats until he couldn’t stand
• Struck with wooden paddles
• Forced to eat until vomiting, then made to lie in vomit-soaked grass
• Another pledge lost consciousness during forced workouts
• Carried sexual objects in a fanny pack at all times
• Hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth

The result:

• Severe rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown)
• Acute kidney failure
• 3 nights, 4 days hospitalized
• Crawled up stairs when he got home because he couldn’t walk

The aftermath:

• Pi Kappa Phi closed the chapter immediately when they heard about the lawsuit
• The university called the conduct “deeply disturbing”
• Criminal charges are possible (per UH statement)

Why this matters to Johnson County:

• Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters nationwide – including near Johnson County
• The same fraternities operate at Johnson County universities
• The same “traditions” exist in Johnson County
• Universities near Johnson County have the same oversight failures

Who We Sue for Johnson County Hazing Victims

When your child is hazed, everyone who participated or allowed it should be held accountable. In our current case, we’re suing:

Johnson County families: We pursue every liable party to maximize your recovery.

What Johnson County Hazing Victims Can Recover

Hazing causes real harm – and victims deserve real compensation. We fight for:

Economic Damages

• Medical bills (hospitalization, treatment, therapy)
• Future medical expenses (kidney monitoring, potential dialysis/transplant)
• Lost wages (time missed from work during recovery)
• Lost earning capacity (if injuries affect future career)
• Educational costs (tuition for disrupted semester, transfer expenses)

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical pain and suffering (from beatings, forced exercise, medical treatment)
• Mental anguish (PTSD, anxiety, depression from abuse)
• Emotional distress (humiliation, shame, loss of trust)
• Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in normal activities)

Punitive Damages

• Punishment for egregious conduct (waterboarding, 500 squats, paddling)
• Deterrent to prevent future hazing
• Applies when conduct shows reckless disregard for safety

In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million – and we’ll fight for the same for Johnson County victims.

Precedent Cases – Johnson County Victims Can Win Big

Hazing cases result in multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. Johnson County victims can recover substantial compensation.

These results are possible for Johnson County victims too.

Nebraska Hazing Laws – Your Legal Rights

While our firm is based in Texas, we understand Nebraska’s legal landscape and can pursue cases for Johnson County victims under applicable laws.

Key Legal Principles:

• Hazing is illegal in Nebraska under state law
• Consent is not a defense – even if your child “agreed” to participate
• Universities have a duty to protect students
• National organizations can be held liable for chapter conduct
• Individuals can be sued personally for their role in hazing

Nebraska Statute of Limitations:

• Personal injury: 4 years from date of injury
• Wrongful death: 2 years from date of death

Don’t wait – evidence disappears and witnesses forget. Contact us immediately to protect your rights.

What Johnson County Families Should Do Immediately

If your child has been hazed, time is critical. Follow these steps:

1. Get Medical Attention

• Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor
• Document all symptoms and treatment
• Follow up with specialists if needed

2. Preserve Evidence

• Save all communications (texts, emails, social media, GroupMe)
• Take photos of injuries at all stages of healing
• Document the scene where hazing occurred
• Get witness names and contact information
• Preserve physical evidence (clothing, objects used in hazing)

3. Do NOT Talk to the Organization

• Do not confront fraternity/sorority leadership
• Do not give statements to university administrators
• Do not sign anything from the organization
• Do not post on social media about the incident

4. Contact Attorney 911 Immediately

• Free consultation: 1-888-ATTY-911
• We handle all communication with the organization and insurance companies
• We preserve evidence before it disappears
• We protect your rights from the beginning

The Attorney 911 Difference – Why Johnson County Families Trust Us

We’re Not Just Lawyers – We’re Advocates

We’ve seen what fraternities do to kids. We’re fighting it in court right now. We see your child as a person – not a paycheck. And we will fight hard for Johnson County families because we truly care.

We Know How They’ll Fight Back – And How to Win

The fraternity will claim:

• “He agreed to participate”
• “It’s just tradition”
• “He knew the risks”
• “He could have left at any time”

We know how to defeat these arguments:

• Consent is not a defense under Nebraska law
• “Tradition” doesn’t justify assault
• Fear of retaliation negates “voluntary” participation
• Universities and nationals have a duty to protect

We Have the Resources to Win

• Expert witnesses (medical, Greek life culture, institutional negligence)
• Investigators to gather evidence
• Medical experts to document injuries
• Economic experts to calculate damages
• The financial backing to take on national organizations

Common Hazing Scenarios in Johnson County – And How We Fight Them

Scenario 1: Forced Alcohol Consumption

What happens: Pledges forced to drink until passing out or vomiting
Medical risks: Alcohol poisoning, choking on vomit, death
Legal claims: Negligence, assault, battery, wrongful death

Scenario 2: Extreme Physical Abuse

What happens: Beatings, paddling, forced exercise to exhaustion
Medical risks: Broken bones, rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, traumatic brain injury
Legal claims: Assault, battery, reckless endangerment

Scenario 3: Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning

What happens: Pledges sprayed with hoses, held underwater, simulated drowning
Medical risks: Traumatic stress, PTSD, physical injury
Legal claims: Assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress

Scenario 4: Sleep Deprivation

What happens: Forced late nights, early mornings, no sleep for days
Medical risks: Exhaustion, accidents, mental health crises
Legal claims: Negligence, reckless endangerment

Scenario 5: Sexual Humiliation/Abuse

What happens: Forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects
Medical risks: PTSD, anxiety, depression, trust issues
Legal claims: Sexual assault, intentional infliction of emotional distress

Johnson County families: No matter what form the hazing took, we can help.

Universities Near Johnson County – And Their Liability

Johnson County is home to quality educational institutions, but hazing happens everywhere. Universities near Johnson County with Greek life include:

• University of Nebraska-Lincoln (Lincoln, NE)
• University of Nebraska at Omaha (Omaha, NE)
• Creighton University (Omaha, NE)
• Nebraska Wesleyan University (Lincoln, NE)
• Doane University (Crete, NE)

These universities have a duty to protect their students. When they fail, they can be held liable.

How Universities Fail Johnson County Students:

• Ignoring prior hazing incidents (they know it happens)
• Failing to inspect fraternity/sorority houses (even when they own them)
• Allowing Greek life to police itself (conflict of interest)
• Covering up incidents to protect reputation
• Failing to enforce anti-hazing policies

We hold universities accountable for these failures.

Fraternities and Sororities Near Johnson County – Know the Risks

The same national fraternities and sororities involved in hazing deaths and lawsuits operate at Johnson County-area universities:

Johnson County parents: If your child is pledging one of these organizations, they face the same risks that hospitalized our client in Houston.

What to Expect During Your Johnson County Hazing Case

Phase 1: Free Consultation

• We listen to your story
• We evaluate your case
• We explain your legal options
• No obligation – completely confidential

Phase 2: Investigation

• Gather evidence (medical records, communications, photos)
• Identify all liable parties
• Preserve evidence before it disappears
• Consult with medical and economic experts

Phase 3: Demand and Negotiation

• Send demand letter to defendants
• Negotiate with insurance companies
• Push for fair settlement

Phase 4: Litigation (if needed)

• File lawsuit in appropriate court
• Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
• Prepare for trial or mediation

Phase 5: Resolution

• Settlement or jury verdict
• Secure compensation for your family
• Hold defendants accountable

Johnson County Hazing FAQs

Q: My child consented to participate. Can we still sue?

A: Yes. Nebraska law states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the organization can still be held liable.

Q: The fraternity says it was just “tradition.” Is that a defense?

A: No. “Tradition” doesn’t justify illegal activity. Assault is assault, whether it’s called “tradition” or not.

Q: My child is afraid of retaliation. Can you protect them?

A: Yes. We take all necessary steps to protect our clients from retaliation. This includes:

• Keeping their identity confidential when possible
• Filing protective orders if needed
• Pursuing punitive damages against those who retaliate

Q: How much is my Johnson County hazing case worth?

A: Every case is different, but factors include:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Psychological trauma
• Lost wages or earning capacity
• Egregiousness of conduct (waterboarding, 500 squats, etc.)
• University’s knowledge of prior incidents
• National organization’s pattern of negligence

In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million. Johnson County cases can reach similar amounts.

Q: How long does a Johnson County hazing case take?

A: Timeline varies, but most cases settle within 12-24 months. Complex cases with multiple defendants may take longer.

Q: Do we have to go to court?

A: Most cases settle out of court. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial to ensure we can get you the best possible result.

Q: My child was hazed at a Johnson County university but I live in another state. Can you still help?

A: Yes. We represent hazing victims nationwide, including Johnson County. We offer video consultations and travel to Johnson County as needed.

Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?

A: You can still sue. Hazing is illegal whether it happens on or off campus. We can pursue the fraternity, national organization, and individuals regardless of location.

Q: My child is an international student. Does that affect our case?

A: No. Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation. We have bilingual staff and experience representing international students.

Johnson County Hazing Warning Signs

Parents: Watch for these red flags that your child may be experiencing hazing:

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or burns
• Difficulty walking or moving
• Extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation
• Weight loss or changes in eating habits
• Signs of alcohol poisoning (vomiting, confusion, passing out)

Behavioral Signs:

• Sudden withdrawal from family/friends
• Increased secrecy about activities
• Fear or anxiety about Greek life events
• Changes in mood or personality
• Decline in academic performance
• Avoiding certain topics or locations

Communication Signs:

• Texts or social media posts about “pledge events”
• References to “traditions” that sound concerning
• Mention of being “punished” or “disciplined”
• Talk about “earning” membership through challenges

If you notice these signs, contact us immediately for guidance.

Johnson County Resources for Hazing Victims

Medical Resources:

• Bryan Health (Lincoln, NE) – Emergency care
• CHI Health St. Elizabeth (Lincoln, NE) – Emergency care
• Nebraska Medicine (Omaha, NE) – Specialized care

Mental Health Resources:

• University of Nebraska-Lincoln Counseling Center – (402) 472-7450
• University of Nebraska at Omaha Counseling Center – (402) 554-2409
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 988

Reporting Resources:

• University of Nebraska-Lincoln Office of Student Conduct – (402) 472-2021
• University of Nebraska at Omaha Office of Student Conduct – (402) 554-3523
• Nebraska State Patrol – (402) 471-4545

Contact Attorney 911 – Johnson County’s Hazing Lawyers

If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Johnson County, we can help. We offer:

✅ Free, confidential consultation – No obligation
✅ $0 upfront cost – We work on contingency
✅ Nationwide representation – We serve Johnson County families
✅ Aggressive advocacy – We fight for maximum compensation
✅ Compassionate service – We treat you like family

Call now for immediate help:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Email:

📧 ralph@atty911.com

Video Consultations Available:

We can meet with Johnson County families remotely via video call.

We Come to Johnson County:

For depositions, client meetings, and trials, we travel to Johnson County as needed.

Johnson County Hazing – The Time to Act Is Now

Johnson County families: Hazing is not harmless. It’s not tradition. It’s abuse. And it’s happening to students near Johnson County right now.

Our client in Houston was waterboarded. He was forced to do 500 squats until his muscles broke down. He spent four days in the hospital with kidney failure. This could be your child.

But there is hope. We are fighting this battle right now – and we’re bringing that same fight to Johnson County. With our experience, resources, and determination, we can hold the responsible parties accountable and get your family the compensation you deserve.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Your legal rights expire.

Call Attorney 911 today:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Justice for Johnson County hazing victims starts here.