If you’re reading this in Jones County, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college, build a community, and grow into a young adult. Instead, they were tortured, abused, and injured, all in the name of a so-called “brotherhood” or “sisterhood.” We understand the fear, the anger, and the desperation you feel. We’re here to help families in Jones County and across the nation fight back against the insidious culture of hazing that continues to plague our universities and colleges.

We are Attorney911, and we are not just talking about hazing; we are actively fighting it. Right now, our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, are litigating a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and the University of Houston, standing with a young man who was waterboarded, hog-tied, and hazed until his kidneys failed. This case, which made headlines across Houston just weeks ago, represents everything our firm stands for: aggressive representation of hazing victims, a data-driven litigation strategy, and relentless pursuit of accountability for every entity responsible for hazing injuries.

Hazing is not a harmless rite of passage. It is not “boys being boys.” It is systematic abuse, often bordering on torture, that can leave lasting physical and psychological scars, and tragically, often even death. Whether your child attends a university in Jones County, at a neighboring institution in Georgia, or anywhere else in the United States, we want you to know that you have legal rights and we are here to ensure those rights are protected.

The Landmark Case: Attorney911 vs. Pi Kappa Phi & University of Houston (2025)

The story of Leonel Bermudez is a chilling reminder of what hazing looks like today. This isn’t a story from decades ago; this happened in November 2025, right in Houston, Texas. The events that unfolded were so severe that the victim, a prospective member or “ghost rush” for Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, ended up hospitalized with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

We filed a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court on November 21, 2025, against not only the Pi Kappa Phi chapter and its national organization but also the University of Houston, its Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity members. This case is new, it is ongoing, and it is a stark demonstration of the kind of firm Attorney911 is: aggressive, thorough, data-driven, and relentless in pursuing justice for hazing victims like Leonel. We bring the same unwavering commitment to families in Jones County facing similar nightmares.

What Happened to Leonel Bermudez?

Leonel Bermudez accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi fraternity at the University of Houston on September 16, 2025. What followed were weeks of systematic abuse that culminated in a severe medical emergency. From media reports by ABC13 Houston, KHOU 11, the Houston Chronicle, and Houston Public Media, we piece together a harrowing timeline:

• Systematic Hazing Begins: Starting September 16 and continuing until November 3, Leonel was subjected to an enforced dress code, mandatory study hours, weekly interviews, and being forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, causing severe exhaustion. He was constantly threatened with physical punishment or expulsion for non-compliance.
• The Fanny Pack of Shame: He was forced to carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature at all times as a means of humiliation.
• Hog-Tying and Abuse: On October 13, another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. This wasn’t an isolated incident; it was part of a pattern.
• Another Pledge Collapses: Just two days later, on October 15, a pledge lost consciousness and collapsed during a forced workout session, requiring other pledges to elevate his legs to revive him. This was a clear warning, yet the hazing continued.
• The Waterboarding: Leonel was subjected to simulated waterboarding with a garden hose on multiple occasions. He was sprayed directly in the face while performing calisthenics, a dehumanizing act that constitutes torture.
• Forced Consumption: He was made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. Even then, he was forced to continue running sprints while in physical distress, and made to lie in his own vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: On November 3, 2025, as punishment for missing an event, Leonel was forced to perform extreme physical exertions: a two-mile warm-up, over 100 pushups, over 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-your-brother” drills, and repeated 100-yard crawls, all while reciting the fraternity creed. He was threatened with immediate expulsion if he stopped.
• Collapse and Kidney Failure: He became so exhausted that he could not stand without help, crawling into bed when he finally got home. His condition worsened over the next two days, leaving him unable to move. On November 6, his mother rushed him to the hospital, where he was passing brown urine—a classic sign of muscle breakdown. He was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, requiring a terrifying three nights and four days of hospitalization.

As 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.”

What Leonel endured was not harmless. Rhabdomyolysis is the breakdown of muscle tissue, releasing damaging proteins into the bloodstream that can cause acute kidney failure and death. This is the same medical condition Attorney911 has successfully litigated in other hazing cases, and Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in handling these complex claims. The ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage looms large for Leonel.

The Institutional Response (and lack thereof)

Within days of Leonel’s hospitalization, Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters suspended the UH chapter. By November 14, the chapter was permanently closed, with members voting to surrender their charter. Criminal referrals were initiated. The University of Houston acknowledged the events as “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of our community standards,” launching its own investigation and cooperation with law enforcement.

However, as Attorney Lupe Peña noted 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.” Our lawsuit forced these details into the open, compelling the institutions to act. Yet, Pi Kappa Phi National’s statement on their website, dated November 21, 2025, also declared, “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time,” showcasing a blatant disregard for the severe harm caused and an eagerness to merely restart. This implies no genuine change in culture will occur without external pressure.

What This Hazing Looks Like Today

If your child is attending or considering institutions like Wesleyan College, Georgia College & State University, or even larger universities across Georgia, they could encounter the same dangers Leonel did. These aren’t isolated incidents in faraway places; the same national fraternities operate in Jones County and at universities your children attend, often fostering a culture where such abuse is normalized.

The reality of hazing today goes far beyond simple pranks or inconvenient tasks. It is often calculated, prolonged, and brutally physical or psychologically damaging. It is about power, control, and degradation. When parents in Jones County send their children off to college, they expect them to be safe, to be nurtured, and to learn in an environment free from violence and humiliation. The systematic abuse Leonel endured, in environments meant for learning and growth, is a profound betrayal of that trust.

It is not “boys being boys.” It is not “tradition.” It is not “building brotherhood.”

IT IS:

• Assault
• Battery
• Torture
• Reckless endangerment
• Sometimes manslaughter
• Sometimes murder

This is why Attorney911 stands ready to fight for Jones County families. We have the experience, the knowledge, and the fierce determination to pursue justice relentlessly.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

Many parents in Jones County might imagine hazing as lighthearted pranks or demanding chores, perhaps involving some mild embarrassment. The truth, tragically, is far darker and more dangerous. Hazing has evolved into brutal, systematic abuse, often involving physical violence, psychological torment, and life-threatening activities. What happened to Leonel Bermudez illustrates this horrifying reality.

The hazing incidents we combat, like the one at the University of Houston, expose the true nature of what students endure:

• Extreme Physical Abuse: This includes forced, sustained physical exertion to the point of collapse and injury. Leonel was subjected to hundreds of pushups and squats, bear crawls, “suicides,” and 100-yard crawls. He was even struck with wooden paddles. This is not exercise; it is physical punishment designed to break victims down.
• Forced Consumption: A common and dangerously prevalent form of hazing involves forcing pledges to consume excessive amounts of alcohol, food (like milk or hot dogs), or even non-food items (such as peppercorns) until they vomit. This often leads to alcohol poisoning, choking hazards, or severe gastrointestinal distress, as Leonel experienced.
• Simulated Waterboarding: This is a technique considered torture by international standards. Leonel was sprayed in the face with a garden hose while performing calisthenics, simulating drowning. The psychological terror and physical distress of being unable to breathe are profound and can have lasting impacts.
• Psychological Torture and Humiliation: Hazing often includes acts specifically designed to degrade and humiliate. Forcing Leonel to carry a fanny pack with sexual objects, subjecting him to cold weather exposure in his underwear, and hog-tying other pledges are all examples of this insidious psychological warfare. This emotional abuse leads to severe mental anguish, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
• Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to drive members in the early morning hours, combined with late-night hazing sessions, creates a state of chronic exhaustion. This impairs judgment, increases vulnerability, and puts students at risk of accidents, as well as exacerbating physical and mental health issues.
• Isolation and Control: The constant threats of expulsion for non-compliance, enforced dress codes, mandatory study hours, and required interviews are all tactics to isolate pledges and exert complete control over their lives, stripping them of their autonomy.

Medical Consequences of Hazing Often Include:

• Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure: As Leonel’s case tragically showed, extreme physical exertion can cause muscle breakdown, leading to life-threatening kidney damage.
• Alcohol Poisoning: Forced binge drinking is a leading cause of hazing deaths, shutting down vital bodily functions.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From beatings, falls during forced activities, or impacts.
• Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: Exposure to extreme weather conditions.
• Dehydration and Malnutrition: Restricted access to food and water.
• Sexual Trauma: Injuries and lasting psychological effects from sexual abuse.
• Psychological Disorders: Long-term conditions like PTSD, severe anxiety, and depression.
• DEATH: The ultimate, irreversible consequence of hazing.

These acts are not about building character or camaraderie; they are about establishing dominance and control through pain and fear. The fact that a pledge at the University of Houston lost consciousness during a workout, and that Leonel was so physically broken he couldn’t stand, demonstrates the severe risks involved. This is why immediate, aggressive legal action is crucial for Jones County families. When such violence occurs, it leaves indelible marks, and those responsible – from the individuals to the institutions – must be held accountable.

Who Is Responsible: Holding Every Entity Accountable

Hazing incidents, particularly those resulting in severe injury or death, rarely involve only one responsible party. Our strategy at Attorney911 is to identify and pursue every individual and institution that contributed to the harm, ensuring that victims and their families receive comprehensive justice. In Leonel Bermudez’s case, as in many hazing lawsuits for Jones County families and clients nationwide, we are pursuing multiple defendants, each with a distinct layer of culpability.

Here’s an overview of the parties we hold responsible, and why, based on our experience:

1. The Local Chapter of the Fraternity/Sorority:

   • Basis for Liability: The individual members of the local chapter are the direct perpetrators. They organized, planned, and executed the hazing activities. Their actions constitute assault, battery, and hazing under state laws.
   • In Bermudez’s Case: The Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi directly organized and conducted the waterboarding, forced eating, extreme exercise, and other abuses. Officers like the Chapter President and Pledgemaster are especially liable for their leadership roles.

2. Individual Members:

   • Basis for Liability: Every individual who actively participated in hazing, knew about it and failed to intervene, or facilitated the abuse can be held personally responsible. This includes current members, as well as alumni who might host events or encourage hazing.
   • In Bermudez’s Case: Our lawsuit names 13 individual fraternity members, including the President, Pledgemaster, and other current and former members. Even a former member’s spouse, who allowed hazing to occur at their residence, is named due to premises liability. As the Stone Foltz case proved, individual officers can be held personally liable for millions.

3. The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization:

   • Basis for Liability: National organizations have a duty to supervise their local chapters, establish clear anti-hazing policies, and enforce them diligently. When a national organization fails in these duties, or ignores a documented pattern of hazing across its chapters, it becomes liable for the resulting harm. They often have substantial assets and insurance coverage.
   • In Bermudez’s Case: Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters is a primary defendant. Our investigation revealed they failed to enforce anti-hazing rules despite knowledge of a “hazing crisis,” a stark admission reported by KHOU 11. The fact that Andrew Coffey died in a Pi Kappa Phi hazing incident in 2017 underscores their long-standing pattern of negligence. With 150+ chapters nationwide, including those that may operate near Jones County, the national organization carries immense responsibility.

4. The University or College:

   • Basis for Liability: Universities have a non-delegable duty to protect their students from foreseeable harm, especially on their campuses or in university-owned properties. This includes regulating Greek life, enforcing anti-hazing policies, and responding appropriately to hazing reports. When universities own the property where hazing occurs, their liability is even clearer.
   • In Bermudez’s Case: The University of Houston is a key defendant. Critically, KHOU 11 reported that the hazing occurred at a “University-owned fraternity house.” This establishes undeniable premises liability. Furthermore, UH had a prior hazing hospitalization in 2017 involving another fraternity, meaning they had actual notice of hazing dangers on their campus and failed to prevent a recurrence. This shows profound institutional negligence.

5. The University’s Governing Board (e.g., Board of Regents):

   • Basis for Liability: As the ultimate governing body, they hold fiduciary duties to safeguard the institution and its students. Their failure to ensure proper oversight and enforce policies can make them liable for institutional negligence.
   • In Bermudez’s Case: The UH Board of Regents is named as a defendant, reflecting the institutional level of responsibility extending beyond just the direct university administration.

6. Fraternity/Sorority Housing Corporations:

   • Basis for Liability: These entities often own or manage the specific fraternity or sorority houses. If hazing occurs on their property and they fail to take reasonable steps to prevent it, they can be held liable under premises liability laws.
   • In Bermudez’s Case: The Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc., which holds EIN 462267515, is included as a defendant. This specialized legal entity exists to manage property and often has significant insurance, adding another layer of accountability.

7. Insurance Carriers:

   • Basis for Liability: Ultimately, the funds for significant settlements often come from the liability insurance policies held by the national organizations, universities, and sometimes even individual homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies. As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña have invaluable insight into how these companies operate, strategize, and attempt to minimize or deny claims. We know how to pursue these policies to maximize recovery.

The “Deep Pockets” Strategy: It’s important to understand that holding these larger entities accountable is crucial for securing meaningful compensation. While individual students might not have substantial assets, national fraternities often have millions in assets and extensive liability insurance. Universities possess significant endowments and institutional insurance. Our firm does not guess; we maintain one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations—including EINs, legal names, addresses, and insurance structures. When hazing happens, we know exactly who to sue.

For families in Jones County, this comprehensive approach means that if your child is harmed by hazing, we will meticulously investigate every possible defendant to ensure justice is served, regardless of how complex the network of responsibility may be.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof for Jones County Families

For families in Jones County grappling with the aftermath of hazing, understanding what is financially possible can be a critical step toward healing and rebuilding. The reality is that hazing, when it results in serious injury or death, often leads to multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts. These cases are not just about compensation; they are about forcing accountability and change within institutions that have failed to protect students.

The $10 million lawsuit we filed in the Leonel Bermudez case is not an anomaly; it is firmly rooted in established precedent. Families across the nation have secured substantial financial recoveries in similar hazing injury and wrongful death cases. These precedent cases serve as powerful proof that justice can be won, and the same principles apply if hazing happens in Jones County, Georgia.

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

Total Payout: $10.1 Million+

Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old student at Bowling Green State University, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha hazing event in March 2021. His family’s pursuit of justice resulted in significant financial and legal outcomes:

• $2.9 Million from Bowling Green State University.
• $7.2 Million from Pi Kappa Alpha National and individual fraternity members.
• $6.5 Million judgment against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, in December 2024, demonstrating that individual officers can be held personally liable for substantial amounts.

This case is a direct comparison point for our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case. It highlights that both universities and national fraternities face multi-million dollar liabilities for hazing.

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

Jury Verdict: $6.1 Million

Maxwell Gruver, an 18-year-old LSU freshman, died in September 2017 from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta hazing ritual. The Gruver family’s lawsuit led to:

• A $6.1 Million jury verdict, sending a powerful message that juries are outraged by hazing and will award significant damages.
• Criminal convictions, including negligent homicide for one fraternity member.
• The passage of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making hazing a felony.

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

Estimated Payout: $110 Million+

Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old student at Penn State, died in February 2017 after consuming 18 drinks in 82 minutes as part of a Beta Theta Pi hazing ritual. He then fell multiple times, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding, while fraternity members waited 12 hours to call for help.

• The civil cases resulted in confidential settlements estimated to exceed $110 Million.
• Multiple criminal convictions, including involuntary manslaughter.
• The passage of the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania.

The sheer scale of the Piazza settlement underscores that when evidence of egregious conduct and institutional failure is strong—as it is in the Bermudez case—damages can be extraordinarily high.

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

Payout: Confidential Settlement

Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old FSU student, died in November 2017 from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey 101 bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi hazing event. This is the same national fraternity involved in Leonel Bermudez’s case.

• Criminal charges were filed against nine fraternity members.
• The chapter was permanently closed.
• The family reached a confidential civil settlement.

The Coffey case is a smoking gun in the Bermudez lawsuit. It proves that Pi Kappa Phi National had actual notice of the deadly consequences of hazing within its chapters years ago yet failed to implement sufficient changes to prevent a recurrence. This pattern of negligence strengthens the claim for punitive damages.

Other Notable Cases:

• Adam Oakes (VCU / Delta Chi, 2021): Died from alcohol poisoning during hazing; the family sued for $28 million and secured a $4 Million+ settlement in October 2024.
• University of Alabama / Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2023): Lawsuit filed for traumatic brain injury (TBI) from hazing, illustrating that serious, non-fatal injuries also command significant legal action.
• UT Austin / Sigma Chi (2025): Just weeks ago, a wrongful death lawsuit was filed against Sigma Chi and UT Austin after an 18-year-old freshman died by suicide following alleged “horrific abuse” during hazing, reinforcing the pervasive nature and tragic outcomes of hazing in Texas.

Why These Precedents Matter for Jones County Families:

1. Our $10 Million Demand is Realistic: Cases like Stone Foltz’s, where a non-fatal injury led to a $10.1 million total recovery, directly support the damages sought for Leonel Bermudez’s severe rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure.
2. Universities and Nationals Pay: These cases consistently show that both the universities and the national fraternity organizations are held liable and pay millions.
3. Juries Hate Hazing: The Gruver verdict demonstrates that jurors are often outraged by hazing and are willing to award substantial sums to victims and their families.
4. Pattern of Negligence is Key: The fact that Pi Kappa Phi had a death in 2017 (Andrew Coffey) makes Leonel Bermudez’s hospitalization critically important. It proves a long-standing, unaddressed pattern of negligence by the national organization. Similarly, the University of Houston’s prior hazing incident in 2017 shows institutional negligence.
5. Egregious Conduct Leads to Higher Damages: The waterboarding, forced consumption, and physical assaults in Leonel’s case are extremely egregious, justifying substantial non-economic and punitive damages.

For families in Jones County, these multi-million dollar outcomes offer not only hope for financial recovery but also a powerful mechanism for justice. They show that speaking out, even against powerful institutions, can lead to monumental change and prevent future tragedies. Attorney911 is equipped with this knowledge and will fight vigorously to achieve comparable justice for hazing victims in Jones County.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Your Rights in Hazing Cases

For families in Jones County, Georgia, seeking justice for hazing, it’s crucial to understand the foundation of anti-hazing laws. While every state has its own specific statutes, the principles of accountability and victim protection are widespread. Our firm operates primarily under Texas law, which is often considered one of the stronger anti-hazing legal frameworks in the country. This serves as a model for understanding the legal rights available to hazing victims, regardless of location, especially since our federal court admissions and dual-state bar licenses allow us to pursue cases nationwide.

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

Texas law defines “hazing” comprehensively, ensuring that a wide range of harmful activities are covered:

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): This statute broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, directed against a student for the purpose of affiliation or membership in an organization, that endangers their mental or physical health or safety. The definition specifically includes:

• Physical Brutality: Such as striking, beating, branding, or placing harmful substances on the body. Leonel Bermudez’s hazing included being struck with wooden paddles and forced physical exertion.
• Sleep Deprivation: Forcing students to stay awake for extended periods or disrupting sleep. Leonel was forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, causing exhaustion.
• Exposure to Elements/Confinement: Subjecting students to harsh weather conditions or confining them in small spaces. Leonel was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather and sprayed with a garden hose.
• Calisthenics or Similar Activity: Any activity causing an unreasonable risk of harm or adversely affecting mental or physical health. Leonel’s 500 squats and other exercises led directly to rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure.
• Forced Consumption: Forcing the consumption of food, liquid, alcohol, or other substances that pose an unreasonable risk of harm. Leonel was forced to eat until he vomited.
• Activities Violating the Penal Code: Any task that involves a violation of criminal law.

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Texas law imposes serious criminal penalties for hazing, ranging from a Class B Misdemeanor for engaging in hazing to a State Jail Felony if hazing results in death. Given Leonel’s severe rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, those involved could face Class A Misdemeanor charges for causing serious bodily injury, meaning up to a year in jail. As the University of Houston spokesperson noted, “potential criminal charges” are a real possibility.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Crucially, organizations themselves can be found guilty of hazing if they condone or encourage it, or if their officers, members, or alumni engage in hazing. Penalties can include fines, denial of the right to operate, and forfeiture of property. This means both the local chapter and the national fraternity, like Pi Kappa Phi, can be held directly accountable.

Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is one of the most critical aspects of modern anti-hazing legislation. The statute explicitly states: “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 means that any argument by fraternities, universities, or individual members that your child “agreed to participate” or “knew what they were getting into” is legally invalid. Hazing involves inherent coercion through peer pressure, fear of ostracism, or threats, which negates true consent. We will shut down this defense immediately.

University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Educational institutions in Texas are mandated to report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor. This provision is vital for tracking incidents and holding universities accountable for transparency.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Charges

While criminal charges address the societal wrong of hazing, civil lawsuits allow victims and their families in Jones County to recover damages for their suffering. Our firm pursues multiple civil liability theories:

1. Negligence: This is the most common claim. We argue that the university, national fraternity, and individual members had a duty to protect students, they breached that duty through their actions or inactions concerning hazing, and this breach directly caused the injuries and damages.
2. Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (as in Leonel’s case, where the UH-owned fraternity house was a hazing site), or a fraternity’s housing corporation, these entities can be held liable for failing to maintain a safe environment.
3. Negligent Supervision: This applies when national organizations fail to adequately supervise their chapters, or universities fail to properly oversee Greek life, leading to foreseeable hazing.
4. Assault and Battery: These intentional torts directly apply to physical hazing acts like striking with paddles or waterboarding.
5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): Reserved for truly outrageous conduct that causes severe emotional distress, IIED claims are highly relevant in cases of psychological torture and extreme humiliation rampant in hazing.
6. Wrongful Death: In the most tragic cases, families can file wrongful death lawsuits to seek compensation for the loss of their loved one, including lost companionship, financial contributions, and funeral expenses. Punitive damages are often sought in these cases.

Nationwide Application for Jones County Families

While these laws specifically reference Texas, the foundational legal principles—negligence, assault, premises liability, and the inability to truly consent to criminal acts—are recognized across state lines. Furthermore:

• Federal Authority: Our admission to U.S. District Courts and our dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) allow us to pursue cases in federal courts, which are not bound by state lines, making us well-equipped to represent Jones County hazing victims involved with national organizations regardless of where their main operations or headquarters are.
• National Organizations: The same national fraternities operating in Texas, with their corporate structures and insurance, also have chapters at institutions near Jones County, Georgia, and across the country. Our strategies for holding them accountable are universally applicable.

Distance is not a barrier to justice. If your child was hazed in Jones County or anywhere else, the law provides a path for accountability, and Attorney911 is prepared to walk that path with you. We will ensure that not only do you understand your legal rights, but that those rights are aggressively enforced.

Why Attorney911: Your Fierce Advocates in Jones County

When your family in Jones County is facing the aftermath of a devastating hazing incident, you need more than just a lawyer; you need fierce advocates, strategists, and compassionate guides who understand the horror of what you’re facing. Attorney911 is built for these legal emergencies. Our unique combination of experience, insight, and aggressive dedication positions us as the decisive choice for hazing victims and their families, no matter where in Jones County the incident occurred or where your child attends college.

1. We Are Actively Fighting This Battle Right Now

This isn’t theoretical for us. We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston in Harris County Civil District Court. This case, involving waterboarding and kidney failure, is happening NOW, and it demonstrates exactly how we will fight for your family in Jones County. We’re in the trenches, making headlines, and holding powerful institutions accountable. This direct, recent experience is invaluable.

2. Ralph Manginello: Battle-Tested with Insider Knowledge

Ralph P. Manginello is not just an attorney; he’s a seasoned litigator with over 25 years of courtroom experience.

• Former Insurance Defense Attorney: Crucially, Ralph spent time working on the defense side for insurance companies. He knows their playbook—how they think, strategize, and try to minimize or deny claims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to anticipate their moves and dismantle their defenses, maximizing recovery for our clients in Jones County.
• Multi-Billion Dollar Case Experience: Ralph was involved in the BP Texas City Explosion litigation, a mass tort case against a massive corporate defendant. This experience proves his capacity to take on powerful institutions like national fraternities and universities, which is exactly what hazing cases demand.
• Dual-State Bar Admissions (Texas and New York): This gives us a strategic advantage when dealing with national fraternities often headquartered across state lines, allowing us to pursue justice in various jurisdictions without limitations.
• Federal Court Authority: Admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, Ralph can pursue cases in federal jurisdiction, which is often essential when dealing with multi-state national organizations or civil rights violations.
• Hazing-Specific Expertise: Ralph has direct experience with fraternity litigation, including cases involving rhabdomyolysis—the same severe injury Leonel Bermudez suffered. He understands the medical complexities and the legal nuances unique to hazing claims.
• Journalism Background: His undergraduate background in journalism equipped him with skills to investigate, uncover facts, and tell compelling stories in court, which is vital when institutions want to hide the truth about hazing.
• Hall of Fame Athlete & Youth Coach: Ralph understands team dynamics, the pressures young people face, and the environments where hazing often occurs. This personal insight adds another layer to his empathetic and strategic approach.
• Father of Three: He knows firsthand what it means to be a parent, and the profound impact when a child is harmed by hazing. He approaches every case with the dedication of a parent fighting for their own.

3. Lupe Peña: The Insurance Counter-Intelligence Expert

Lupe Eleno Peña, also a male attorney, brings another crucial layer of insider knowledge to our firm.

• Former National Insurance Defense Attorney: Lupe worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm. He learned firsthand how large insurance companies value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts across a multitude of practice areas. He now leverages this knowledge to dismantle their strategies and maximize recovery for our clients.
• 12+ Years of Litigation Experience: His experience in personal injury, commercial litigation, and construction law ensures a robust approach to complex cases.
• Fluency in Spanish (“Se Habla Español”): For Jones County’s diverse community, including Spanish-speaking families, Lupe’s bilingual capabilities ensure seamless communication and culturally sensitive representation, breaking down language barriers to justice.
• Third-Generation Texan with Finance Background: His deep local roots and pre-law career in finance provide unique insights into economic damages, future earnings calculations, and corporate structures, which are critical when pursuing national fraternities.
• Aggressive Philosophy: Lupe’s approach—to “outwork, outsmart, and outfight the other side”—is the mentality required to take on powerful fraternities, universities, and national organizations.

4. Comprehensive Texas Hazing Intelligence Database

We don’t guess who to sue; we know. Attorney911 maintains one of the most comprehensive private directories of Greek organizations in Texas, including their EINs, legal names, addresses, house corporations, and insurance structures. This means we can quickly identify every entity behind the Greek letters, even for chapters that might operate near Jones County.

• Our database includes over 125 IRS-registered Greek organizations in Texas. For instance, we track entities like Beta Nu Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Housing Corporation Inc. with EIN 462267515, based in Frisco, Texas, which happens to be the same entity behind the UH chapter we sued.
• We know that the Houston–The Woodlands–Sugar Land metro area, for example, contains 188 Greek-related organizations, while the Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington area has 510. This intelligence allows us to pinpoint responsible parties across Texas and understand the scale of risk your children face.
• We can track powerful national brands, like the numerous Pi Kappa Alpha house corporations and alumni chapters we monitor, which have paid over $24 million in hazing death settlements nationally. The same letters, with the same dangerous traditions, exist near Jones County.

5. Client-Centered Approach & No Upfront Costs

We understand the trauma and financial strain hazing incidents place on families. That’s why:

• Contingency Fees: Jones County hazing victims pay $0 upfront. We work on a contingency basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless and until you get paid. This ensures that expert legal representation is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
• Nationwide Reach with Local Service: While headquartered in Houston, we serve hazing victims in Jones County and across America. We offer remote consultations via video and are fully prepared to travel to Jones County for depositions, meetings, and trials when your case demands it. Distance is not a barrier to justice.
• Empathetic and Bilingual Staff: Our team is committed to treating Jones County families like family, providing compassionate support alongside aggressive legal action. Our bilingual staff ensures that Spanish-speaking families receive clear, comprehensive legal assistance without language barriers.

When hazing leaves a family shattered in Jones County, the choice of legal representation is critical. Attorney911 offers not just legal expertise, but a proven track record, an empathetic approach, and the strategic advantages of former insurance defense attorneys who know how to win against even the most powerful defendants. We don’t just talk about hazing; we’re actively fighting it, and we are ready to fight for you.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Jones County Families After Hazing

If your child in Jones County has been a victim of hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. Confusion, shock, fear, and anger can make it difficult to think clearly, but taking the right steps can significantly impact your child’s recovery and the strength of a potential legal claim. We understand the enormous emotional burden you’re carrying, and we’re here to provide clear, actionable guidance.

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Attention

Your child’s physical and mental well-being are paramount.

• Seek Medical Care Immediately: Even if injuries seem minor, get professional medical attention. Hazing injuries, like rhabdomyolysis in Leonel’s case, can have delayed or subtle symptoms with severe consequences. A medical professional can diagnose injuries, initiate treatment, and, crucially, create official medical records.
  • Document Everything: Ensure all symptoms, complaints, and details of the hazing are clearly communicated to medical staff and recorded in their notes. If your child is passing brown urine, feeling extreme muscle pain, or experiencing any psychological distress, ensure this is documented.
• Ensure Physical Safety: If your child is still in an environment where hazing is occurring or they fear retaliation, remove them from that situation immediately.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence Immediately

Hazing incidents, especially in the context of Greek life, often leave a digital trail and physical evidence that can quickly disappear.

• Digital Communications: SAVE EVERYTHING.
  • Text Messages: Group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp), individual texts, and any messages discussing hazing, instructions, attendance, or threats.
  • Social Media: Screenshots of posts, stories, DMs from Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, etc., related to pledge activities or the fraternity/sorority. Do not rely on “stories” that expire; screenshot them.
  • Emails: Any emails from the organization, university, or individual members related to the pledge process.
  • Do NOT Delete Anything: Deleting messages, even old ones, can be viewed as spoliation of evidence and harm your case. Even if you think it’s irrelevant or embarrassing, save it.
• Photos and Videos:
  • Injuries: Take clear photos and videos of all injuries—bruises, cuts, burns, swelling, changes in urine color (as in rhabdomyolysis). Continue to document the healing process over time.
  • Scene Evidence: If possible and safe, take photos or videos of the hazing locations (fraternity house, specific rooms, parks, vehicles). Note any specific items used in hazing (bottles, paddles, hazing uniforms).
• Physical Evidence:
  • Documents: Save any “pledge manuals,” schedules, rules, or codes of conduct given to your child.
  • Clothing: Preserve any clothing worn during the hazing that might contain evidence like vomit or other substances.
• Witness Information: Collect names, phone numbers, and contact details of anyone who witnessed the hazing, other pledges who experienced it, or individuals who can corroborate your child’s story. Their testimony can be invaluable.

Step 3: Avoid Common Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

The defense—the fraternity, the university, and their insurance companies—will be looking for ways to minimize or deny your claim.

• Do NOT Talk to Them Alone: Do not give statements to fraternity leadership, university administrators, or insurance adjusters without legal counsel present. Their primary goal is to protect their institution, not your child.
• Do NOT Sign Anything: Do not sign any documents, releases, or agreements provided by the organization or university without your attorney reviewing them first. These documents often include clauses that waive your legal rights.
• Do NOT Post on Social Media: Anything you or your child posts on social media can and will be used against your case. This includes posts about the incident, general discussions about college life, photos looking “happy” or “fine,” or any activity that contradicts claims of suffering. Stay off social media entirely regarding the incident.
• Do NOT Confront Directly: While natural to want answers, confronting the individuals or the organization directly without legal advice can lead to evidence tampering, witness intimidation, or statements that harm your legal position.

Step 4: Contact Attorney911 Immediately

Time is of the essence in hazing cases.

• Call 1-888-ATTY-911: Our legal emergency hotline is available 24/7. Don’t wait. We offer free, confidential consultations for Jones County families.
• The Statute of Limitations: In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is typically two years from the date of injury. Waiting too long can mean losing your right to pursue a claim entirely. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and opportunities for accountability diminish.
• We Will Come to You: While based in Texas, distance is not a barrier for us. We offer remote video consultations for Jones County families, and we will travel for depositions, trials, and critical client meetings as needed. Our federal court admissions and dual state bar licenses allow us to pursue justice beyond state lines.
• No Upfront Fees: We take hazing cases on contingency. You pay $0 upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. This removes the financial burden, allowing you to focus on your child’s recovery.

Step 5: Report to Appropriate Authorities (with Legal Guidance)

With legal counsel, consider these reporting options:

• University Officials: An official report to the university’s Greek Life office or Dean of Students office, often followed by a Title IX report if sexual harassment or assault is involved.
• Law Enforcement: Filing a police report, especially if criminal acts like assault, battery, or felony hazing have occurred.
• National Organization: While they may downplay the incident, reporting to the national fraternity/sorority organization officially documents their knowledge.

By taking these urgent steps, you empower medical professionals to treat effectively, legal teams to build a strong case, and ultimately, your child to reclaim their voice and pursue justice. Attorney911 is ready to guide Jones County families through every single step of this difficult journey.

Contact Us: Your Fight Starts Now, in Jones County

If your child has been subjected to the horrific realities of hazing in Jones County, Georgia, or while attending college anywhere in the country, you are likely feeling overwhelmed, angry, and scared. We want you to know that you are not alone, and you do not have to endure this nightmare in silence. We are Attorney911, and we are ready to fight for you, just as we are fighting right now for Leonel Bermudez against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston.

Your Legal Emergency Is Our Mission in Jones County

We understand the unique cultural fabric of Jones County, from its close-knit communities to the aspirations of its young people heading off to institutions like Wesleyan College, Mercer University, Georgia College & State University, or even major universities across Georgia and beyond. The trust placed in these institutions, and in the “brotherhoods” and “sisterhoods” they host, is often shattered by hazing. When that trust is betrayed, our team stands ready to seek justice.

Why contact Attorney911 for your hazing case in Jones County?

• Proven Aggression in Hazing Litigation: We aren’t theoretical. Our active $10 million lawsuit shows we know how to build multi-defendant cases, prove institutional negligence, and hold perpetrators accountable. The same strategies we deploy in major Texas courts will be brought to bear for your family in Jones County.
• Deep Pockets Expertise: We understand that the real money for compensation comes from national fraternities and universities. Our intelligence on Greek organizations and our insider knowledge as former insurance defense attorneys mean we know how to pursue every layer of insurance and assets.
• Nationwide Reach, Local Commitment: While our headquarters are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) enable us to represent hazing victims across America, including Jones County, Georgia. We offer remote video consultations and are committed to traveling for depositions, trials, and important meetings to ensure your case receives the attention it deserves.
• No Upfront Cost, No Risk: We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely $0 upfront for our legal services. We only get paid when we win your case. Your focus should be on your child’s recovery, not legal fees.

Your Call Could Save Lives

As Attorney Lupe Peña profoundly stated regarding the Bermudez case, “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 decision to pursue justice for hazing in Jones County can send a powerful message, not just to the individuals and organizations directly involved, but to every fraternity, sorority, and university across the nation. It can help protect the next generation of students.

Don’t Wait – Time is Critical for Jones County Hazing Victims

The statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including hazing, varies by state but is typically two years from the date of injury. However, evidence disappears quickly: text messages are deleted, social media posts vanish, witnesses’ memories fade, and complicit organizations actively work to cover their tracks. Waiting jeopardizes your claim.

If your child has been a victim of hazing in Jones County, Georgia, or anywhere else, reach out to us immediately.

🚨 Jones County Families: Call Us Now for a FREE, Confidential Consultation

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Our Legal Emergency Hotline is available 24/7.
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com

We are here because hazing is a legal emergency. We are here to fight for you. Let us turn your family’s pain into powerful accountability. Enough is enough.