Hazing Lawyers Serving Lee County, Illinois — Attorney 911
Justice for Hazing Victims in Lee County and Beyond
If your child has been the victim of fraternity hazing, sorority hazing, or any form of abusive initiation in Lee County, Illinois, you are not alone. Attorney 911 is fighting this battle right now — and we will fight for Lee County families with the same determination.
We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This is not theoretical — we are in the courtroom, in the media, and in the fight. Lee County hazing victims deserve the same aggressive representation.
The Hazing Crisis in Lee County, Illinois
Hazing is not just a problem in big cities or major universities. It happens right here in Lee County, Illinois, and at colleges and universities across the region. The same national fraternities and sororities that have caused serious injuries and deaths nationwide operate chapters near Lee County. The same dangerous “traditions” that hospitalized our client in Houston exist at institutions where Lee County families send their children.
What Lee County Parents Need to Know:
- Hazing is illegal in Illinois — It violates state criminal law and can result in felony charges.
- Consent is not a defense — Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the law says consent does not justify hazing.
- Universities are liable — Schools have a duty to protect students from known hazards, including hazing in Greek organizations.
- National organizations are liable — Fraternities and sororities with chapters near Lee County have paid millions in settlements for hazing injuries.
- You have legal rights — Victims of hazing can sue for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
Our Current Case: A Warning for Lee County Families
Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi — $10 Million Hazing Lawsuit
What Happened:
Leonel Bermudez, a young man hoping to transfer to the University of Houston, accepted a bid to join Pi Kappa Phi fraternity in September 2025. What followed was weeks of systematic abuse that hospitalized him with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after being forced to perform extreme physical exercises, including 500 squats and 100 pushups under threat of expulsion.
The Hazing Activities:
- Waterboarding with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
- Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting
- Being struck with wooden paddles
- Extreme physical punishment (bear crawls, wheelbarrows, two-mile warmups)
- Sleep deprivation (forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours)
- Psychological torture (carrying sexual objects, threats of expulsion)
The Outcome:
- Hospitalized for 3 nights and 4 days with kidney failure
- Diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis — a life-threatening condition caused by muscle breakdown
- Pi Kappa Phi immediately closed the chapter — proving they knew what was happening
- $10 million lawsuit filed against the fraternity, university, and individuals
Why This Matters to Lee County Families:
- Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters across America, including near Lee County.
- The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client happen at Lee County-area fraternities.
- Universities near Lee County face the same liability failures as UH.
- If your child is being hazed, we will fight for you just like we’re fighting in Houston.
Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Lee County Hazing Case
1. We Are Fighting This Fight Right Now
While many law firms talk about hazing cases, we are actively litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit. This is not theoretical for us — it’s personal. We know how to build these cases, how to negotiate with institutions, and how to win in court.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys — We Know Their Playbook
Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked as insurance defense attorneys before switching sides to represent victims. We know exactly how insurance companies, universities, and fraternities try to minimize or deny claims. We use that knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize your recovery.
3. Nationwide Reach — We Serve Lee County Families
While based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including in Lee County, Illinois. Our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses allow us to pursue cases against national fraternities and universities regardless of location. We will travel to Lee County for depositions, trials, and client meetings.
4. Contingency Fee Representation — $0 Upfront Cost
Lee County families pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis — you don’t pay us unless and until we win your case. This levels the playing field against institutions with deep pockets.
5. Bilingual Services — Se Habla Español
We understand that hazing affects families from all backgrounds. Our bilingual staff ensures that Spanish-speaking Lee County families receive the same high-quality representation without language barriers.
6. Proven Track Record in High-Stakes Litigation
- BP Texas City explosion litigation — Mass tort experience against major corporations
- $6.5 million personal judgment against an individual in a hazing case (Stone Foltz case)
- Multi-million dollar settlements in personal injury and wrongful death cases
- Former federal court experience — U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
Who Is Liable for Hazing in Lee County?
Hazing cases involve multiple defendants, all of whom can be held accountable:
| Defendant | Why They’re Liable |
|---|---|
| Local Fraternity/Sorority Chapter | Directly organized and conducted hazing activities |
| National Fraternity/Sorority Organization | Failed to supervise chapters; knew or should have known about hazing culture |
| University/College | Failed to protect students; had power to regulate Greek life; premises liability if hazing occurred on university property |
| Chapter Officers (President, Pledgemaster, etc.) | Leadership responsibility; directed hazing activities |
| Individual Members | Participated in hazing; failed to stop it |
| Former Members/Alumni | Hosted hazing events at their homes; premises liability |
| Insurance Companies | Provide coverage for institutional and individual liability |
Lee County Families: Every person and entity that participated in or allowed hazing can be sued. We will pursue all liable parties to maximize your recovery.
What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Lee County
Immediate Steps for Lee County Families:
-
Get Medical Attention
- Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions (like rhabdomyolysis) may not show symptoms immediately.
- Document everything — medical records are critical evidence.
-
Preserve All Evidence
- Text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat messages — Do not delete anything.
- Photos/videos of injuries, hazing activities, or locations.
- Witness information — Get names and contact details of other pledges or witnesses.
- Fraternity/sorority documents — Pledge manuals, schedules, or rules.
-
Do NOT Confront the Organization
- Do not talk to fraternity/sorority leadership, university administrators, or their lawyers without legal counsel.
- They will try to control the narrative, destroy evidence, or intimidate witnesses.
-
Do NOT Post on Social Media
- Anything you post can be used against you in court.
- Avoid discussing the incident online until your case is resolved.
-
Call Attorney 911 Immediately
- Statute of limitations: Illinois has a 2-year deadline to file a lawsuit. Evidence disappears quickly.
- Free consultation: We will evaluate your case and explain your legal options.
Damages Available for Lee County Hazing Victims
Hazing victims can recover economic and non-economic damages, including:
| Damage Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Hospital bills, rehabilitation, therapy, future medical care |
| Lost Wages | Time missed from work due to injuries |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain and emotional trauma from hazing |
| Mental Anguish | PTSD, anxiety, depression, humiliation |
| Loss of Enjoyment of Life | Inability to participate in normal activities |
| Punitive Damages | Additional compensation to punish egregious conduct (e.g., waterboarding, forced consumption, extreme physical abuse) |
In severe cases, damages can reach millions of dollars. Our current case seeks $10 million, and we have secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts in similar cases.
Precedent Cases: Hazing Victims Win Big
Hazing cases result in substantial settlements and verdicts when victims have strong legal representation:
| Case | Fraternity | University | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stone Foltz | Pi Kappa Alpha | Bowling Green State | $10.1 million settlement |
| Maxwell Gruver | Phi Delta Theta | Louisiana State | $6.1 million jury verdict |
| Timothy Piazza | Beta Theta Pi | Penn State | $110+ million settlement |
| Andrew Coffey | Pi Kappa Phi | Florida State | Confidential multi-million dollar settlement |
Lee County Families: These cases prove that hazing victims can and do win. The same legal strategies apply to Lee County cases.
Illinois Hazing Laws — What Lee County Families Need to Know
Illinois Anti-Hazing Statute (720 ILCS 5/12C-50)
Illinois law defines hazing as:
“Any act directed toward a student that endangers the physical health or safety of the student for the purpose of initiation or admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in, any group or organization.”
Criminal Penalties:
- Class A Misdemeanor — Up to 1 year in jail and $2,500 fine
- Class 4 Felony — If hazing results in bodily harm (up to 3 years in prison)
- Class 2 Felony — If hazing results in death (3-7 years in prison)
Civil Liability:
- Victims can sue for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
- Consent is not a defense — Illinois law explicitly states that a victim’s consent does not justify hazing.
Why Lee County Families Choose Attorney 911
1. We Understand the Culture
Ralph Manginello is a former athlete and youth coach who understands the pressures young people face in team environments. We know how hazing thrives in Greek life, sports teams, and other organizations near Lee County.
2. We Are Not Afraid to Go to Trial
Many law firms settle cases quickly to avoid the courtroom. We are trial attorneys who are not afraid to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to get justice.
3. We Have Media Experience
Our current hazing case has been covered by ABC13, KHOU 11, Houston Chronicle, and Houston Public Media. We know how to use media attention to pressure defendants and build public support for your case.
4. We Travel to Lee County
We will come to Lee County for depositions, client meetings, and trials. Distance is not a barrier to justice.
5. We Care About Lee County Families
We see your child as a person — not a paycheck. We will fight hard for Lee County families because we truly care about ending the culture of hazing.
Contact Attorney 911 — Free Consultation for Lee County Families
If your child has been hazed in Lee County, Illinois, call us now. We are ready to fight for you.
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7 Legal Emergency Hotline)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com
Free Consultation • $0 Upfront Cost • Contingency Fee Representation
Frequently Asked Questions for Lee County Families
1. Can I sue if my child consented to hazing?
Yes. Illinois law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the organization and individuals can still be held liable.
2. How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Illinois?
Illinois has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including hazing. However, do not wait — evidence disappears quickly, and witnesses forget.
3. Can I sue the national fraternity or just the local chapter?
Yes, you can sue both. National organizations have deep pockets and are often liable for failing to supervise their chapters. In our current case, we are suing both the local chapter and Pi Kappa Phi National.
4. What if the hazing happened off-campus?
You can still sue. Hazing is illegal regardless of where it occurs, whether on-campus, at a fraternity house, or at a private residence.
5. Can I afford a lawyer?
Yes. We work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
6. Will my child get in trouble for reporting hazing?
Illinois has anti-retaliation laws that protect students who report hazing. We will ensure your child is protected from retaliation.
7. What if my child is afraid to come forward?
We understand the fear of retribution. Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case was also afraid to speak out. We will protect your child’s identity and safety while building the strongest possible case.
Hazing Warning Signs for Lee County Parents
Hazing often starts subtly and escalates over time. Be aware of these warning signs:
| Category | Warning Signs |
|---|---|
| Behavioral Changes | Withdrawal, anxiety, depression, sudden mood swings |
| Physical Signs | Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries; exhaustion; weight loss |
| Academic Issues | Sudden drop in grades; missing classes; avoiding school |
| Social Changes | Avoiding friends or family; spending excessive time with Greek organization |
| Financial Issues | Unexplained expenses; requests for money; missing personal items |
| Communication | Secretive about activities; avoiding questions about Greek life |
If you notice these signs, ask questions. If your child is being hazed, call us immediately.
Our Commitment to Lee County Families
We are Attorney 911 — Legal Emergency Lawyers™. When a legal emergency hits, we move first, fast, and decisively.
For Lee County hazing victims, our team will:
- Build your case with expert witnesses (medical, Greek life culture, institutional negligence)
- Preserve evidence immediately — texts, photos, medical records, witness statements
- Negotiate from strength — we’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing case
- Travel to Lee County — for depositions, trials, and client meetings
- Provide remote consultations — Lee County families can video chat with our attorneys
If a university, fraternity, or insurance company tries to silence Lee County hazing victims, we take it to court.
Final Message to Lee County Families
Hazing is not tradition. It is not bonding. It is not brotherhood or sisterhood.
It is abuse. It is assault. It is sometimes manslaughter or murder.
Lee County families: Your child trusted these organizations. That trust was betrayed. But you are not powerless.
We are Attorney 911. We are Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena. And we are fighting this battle right now — for Leonel Bermudez, for Andrew Coffey, for Maxwell Gruver, for Timothy Piazza, and for every hazing victim in Lee County and across America.
If your child has been hazed, call us. We will fight for you.
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 | 📧 ralph@atty911.com | 🌐 attorney911.com
Justice for Lee County hazing victims starts with a call.
