If you’re reading this in Macon County, Georgia, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college. They were supposed to thrive, to learn, to grow. Instead, they were tortured. They were abused. They were hazed. We’re here to help families in Macon County fight back.

We are Attorney 911, and we are actively fighting this battle right now in a $10 million lawsuit against a national fraternity and a major university. This isn’t theoretical; this is real. This is happening in our shared corner of the world, and it happened just weeks ago. What happened in Houston can, and often does, happen at institutions where students from Macon County attend college. Whether your child attends Mercer University or Middle Georgia State right here in Macon County, or a larger university across the state or nation, the dangers of hazing are universal. We are here to bring the same aggressive representation to hazing victims and their families in Macon County that we deliver every day in our work.

The Landmark Case in Our Own Backyard: Leonel Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi & University of Houston (2025)

This case, filed in November 2025, represents everything we stand for at Attorney 911. It is a stark warning to fraternities, universities, and parents across the country, showing just how brutal hazing has become. And most importantly, it shows what our firm does about it: we fight relentlessly for justice.

Leonel Bermudez was a “ghost rush”—a prospective member of the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. He wasn’t even enrolled at the university yet; he was planning to transfer for the upcoming semester. Yet, he was subjected to weeks of horrific hazing that culminated in his hospitalization for severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

We filed a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court, naming Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members as defendants. The media coverage of this case, by outlets like ABC13 Houston, KHOU 11, the Houston Chronicle, and Houston Public Media, is a testament to the egregious nature of the hazing Leonel endured. You can read their reports here:

ABC13 Houston: Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges (November 21-22, 2025)
KHOU 11: $10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations (November 21, 2025)
Houston Chronicle: UH fraternity hazing lawsuit (November 22, 2025)
Houston Public Media: University of Houston, Pi Kappa Phi fraternity sued for $10 million over alleged hazing (November 24, 2025)

Leonel’s story is heartbreakingly common, and it serves as a critical warning for parents in Macon County. It demonstrates that hazing is not a relic of the past; it is a current, dangerous reality at universities your children might attend.

What Happened to Leonel Bermudez: The Hazing Timeline

Leonel accepted his bid to Pi Kappa Phi on September 16, 2025. What followed was an escalating pattern of abuse:

October 13, 2025: Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. This wasn’t even Leonel, but it shows the pervasive brutality.
October 15, 2025: A pledge lost consciousness and collapsed during a forced workout. Even after this alarming incident, the hazing continued.
November 3, 2025: This was the night Leonel’s body gave out. He was forced to do over 100 pushups, 500 squats, and numerous other exercises like “suicides,” bear crawls, and wheelbarrows, all while reciting the fraternity creed under threat of expulsion. He became so utterly exhausted that he could not stand without help.
November 4-5, 2025: Leonel was unable to move, his condition rapidly worsening.
November 6, 2025: His mother rushed him to the hospital, where doctors immediately noticed he was passing brown urine—a classic sign of severe muscle breakdown. He was diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
November 6-10, 2025: Leonel spent three nights and four days hospitalized, receiving intensive medical care.
November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National officially closed its Beta Nu Chapter, an admission of wrongdoing that came just days before our lawsuit was filed.
November 21, 2025: We filed the $10 million lawsuit.

As our 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.”

The Chilling Details: What Hazing Looks Like Today

The hazing Leonel suffered was far beyond typical college pranks. It was systematic torture:

Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose” as reported by KHOU. He was sprayed directly in the face while doing calisthenics and forced to run repeatedly under the threat of being waterboarded again. This isn’t a game; this is a form of torture.
Forced Eating Until Vomiting: He was made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. Then, he was forced to continue running sprints in physical distress, and even lie in the vomit-soaked grass.
Extreme Physical Punishment: Beyond the 100+ pushups and 500 squats, he endured high-volume sprints (“suicides”), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother” drills, two-mile warmups, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was struck with wooden paddles. This relentless exertion broke down his body.
Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather. He had to carry a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature at all times. The earlier hog-tying incident involving another pledge underscores the culture of degradation. Threats of physical punishment or expulsion were constant.
Sleep Deprivation: He was forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, contributing to his physical and mental exhaustion.

This is not “building character.” This is abuse, torture, and systemic misconduct.

The Medical Nightmare: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

Leonel’s body reached its breaking point, leading to a life-threatening medical condition: rhabdomyolysis. This occurs when damaged muscle tissue releases harmful proteins into the bloodstream, which can severely damage the kidneys and lead to acute kidney failure.

His symptoms were classic and terrifying: severe muscle pain, difficulty walking, and most alarmingly, brown urine due to the presence of myoglobin. His creatine kinase levels, a marker of muscle damage, were extremely high. He spent four days in the hospital, fighting for his life, and now faces the ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage.

We understand these medical terms, and we understand the lasting impact such injuries have on victims and their families in Macon County.

The Institutional Cover-Up and Admission of Guilt

The responses from both Pi Kappa Phi National and the University of Houston speak volumes:

Pi Kappa Phi National’s Statement (November 21, 2025): They stated they “closed its Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This came seven days before our lawsuit was even filed. They knew what was coming. They admitted “violations.” Yet, they concluded their statement by saying, “we look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time.” This brazen lack of remorse demands accountability through a substantial verdict.
University of Houston Spokesperson (November 24, 2025): While expressing that “The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards,” they also coordinating with the fraternity. Most significantly, UH noted any individuals found responsible could face “potential criminal charges.” This is not just a policy violation; it’s a criminal act.

As our attorney Lupe Pena told 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.” This case is not just about Leonel Bermudez; it’s about holding institutions accountable to protect families in Macon County and everywhere else.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

For parents in Macon County, Georgia, seeking information about hazing, it’s crucial to understand that modern hazing extends far beyond innocent pranks. It is systematic abuse designed to inflict pain, humiliation, and often, serious bodily harm. The story of Leonel Bermudez is not an isolated incident but a chilling example of the current reality.

What institutions still call “tradition” or “team building” often constitutes:

Physical assault
Battery
Torture
Reckless endangerment
Sexual abuse
And, tragically, sometimes manslaughter or murder

The statistics paint a grim picture:

Over 55% of students involved in Greek organizations experience hazing.
40% of student-athletes report being hazed.
Since the year 2000, there has been at least one hazing death every single year in the United States. Hazing has claimed over 100 lives in the past few decades.
A staggering 95% of students who are hazed do not report it, often due to fear, shame, or loyalty to the group.

Hazing is endemic, not just in fraternities and sororities, but also in Macon County high school sports teams, bands, ROTC programs, and various clubs and student organizations at local institutions like Mercer University or Middle Georgia State University.

The institutional failure is clear: universities know hazing happens. National organizations know hazing happens. They have the power, and the responsibility, to stop it. Yet, too often, they choose not to—until a student is hospitalized, permanently injured, or dies. Only then do they scramble to “suspend” or “dissolve” chapters, claiming they are “shocked” by the revelations. But their actions, like Pi Kappa Phi closing their chapter just days before our lawsuit, prove they often know precisely what kind of terror is being inflicted.

Categories of Hazing We See in Macon County and Beyond

Based on our ongoing Pi Kappa Phi case and years of experience, hazing falls into severe categories:

Physical Abuse: This includes forced, excessive exercise to exhaustion (like Leonel’s 500 squats), beatings, paddling (Leonel was struck with wooden paddles), branding, burning, or other physically dangerous actions.
Forced Consumption: This often involves binge drinking leading to alcohol poisoning, chugging large amounts of liquids (milk, hot water), or eating until vomiting (as Leonel was forced to do). It can also include consuming non-food substances.
Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to stay awake for extended periods, engage in late-night activities, or perform duties during early morning hours, disrupting their studies and physical health.
Psychological Torture: Humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, isolation, terror threats, and creating an atmosphere of fear and subservience. Leonel’s experience with the fanny pack of sexual objects and the hog-tying incident are prime examples.
Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As Leonel experienced, this is the deliberate induction of fear of suffocation, crossing a line into outright torture.
Exposure: Forcing students to endure extreme cold or heat, or confining them in small, uncomfortable spaces.
Servitude: Making pledges perform menial tasks, cleaning, or driving members around, often interfering with their academic responsibilities.

The True Costs: Medical and Psychological Consequences

The consequences of hazing are profound, leaving lasting scars both visible and invisible:

Rhabdomyolysis and Acute Kidney Failure: Directly experienced by Leonel Bermudez. This can lead to chronic kidney disease, the need for dialysis or transplant, and even death.
Alcohol Poisoning: A common and deadly outcome, often seen in cases like Andrew Coffey and Maxwell Gruver.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From falls, beatings, or violent shaking.
Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From exposure to extreme temperatures.
Cardiac Arrest: From extreme physical exertion or drug use.
Infections: From injuries or unsanitary conditions.
Sexual Assault: A tragically common, yet underreported, element of hazing.
Long-term Psychological Damage: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, severe depression, suicidal ideation, academic decline, social withdrawal, and substance abuse are common. Leonel’s current fear of retribution for speaking out highlights the deep psychological impact.

When Macon County parents send their children to college, they expect them to be safe. We are here to ensure that when that trust is betrayed by hazing, every responsible party is held fully accountable.

Who Is Responsible for Hazing? Everyone Who Participated or Allowed It.

When hazing occurs, it’s rarely just one person or one organization to blame. The culture that cultivates and enables hazing is often deeply entrenched, involving multiple layers of individuals and institutions. In our landmark Pi Kappa Phi case, we are aggressively pursuing accountability from every single entity that played a role, directly or indirectly. This comprehensive approach is what Macon County hazing victims deserve.

Here’s a breakdown of who can be held liable, and why, for hazing in Macon County and across the nation:

1. Local Chapters and Their Members

Why they’re liable: The local chapter and its individual members are the direct perpetrators. They organize, facilitate, and participate in the hazing activities. In Leonel Bermudez’s case, the Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston directly organized and carried out the brutal acts. The chapter president and pledgemaster, along with other current members, are named defendants. Every individual who participated in the waterboarding, physical torture, or forced consumption can be held personally responsible.
Legal Basis: Assault, Battery, Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress, Negligence. Every person who actually inflicted harm, or stood by and allowed it to happen instead of intervening, can be individually sued.

2. National Fraternity/Sorority Organizations

Why they’re liable: The national organizations oversee hundreds of local chapters. They are responsible for setting anti-hazing policies, providing education, and ensuring compliance. In our Pi Kappa Phi case, the national organization immediately suspended and then dissolved the UH chapter once the hazing was exposed. This action is a clear admission that they knew the conduct was wrong. National organizations often fail to adequately supervise local chapters, enforce their own anti-hazing policies, or address known patterns of abuse.
Legal Basis: Negligent Supervision, Vicarious Liability (for the actions of their chapters and members), Direct Negligence (for failing to prevent hazing despite knowledge). These national bodies possess significant assets and robust insurance policies, making them a primary target for substantial damages. The death of Andrew Coffey at another Pi Kappa Phi chapter in 2017 provides undeniable evidence that the national organization had actual notice of deadly hazing within its ranks.

3. Universities and Colleges

Why they’re liable: Universities have a fundamental duty to protect their students and provide a safe learning environment. In Leonel’s case, the University of Houston owned and directly controlled the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place. KHOU 11 reported this as a “University-owned fraternity house,” directly tying the institution to the location of the abuse. Despite a prior hazing hospitalization at UH in 2017 involving another fraternity, the university failed to implement adequate safeguards or supervise Greek life effectively.
Legal Basis: Premises Liability (for incidents on their property), Negligent Supervision (of student organizations), Direct Negligence, Breach of Contract (implied contract to provide a safe educational environment). Universities, including those near Macon County like Mercer University, Middle Georgia State University, Fort Valley State University, or Georgia College & State University, are expected to monitor student conduct and enforce anti-hazing policies. Their failure to do so translates directly into liability.

4. Housing Corporations

Why they’re liable: Many fraternities operate through separate housing corporations that own or manage the chapter properties. These entities have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their premises. The Beta Nu Housing Corporation itself is a named defendant in our lawsuit, illustrating another layer of accountability.
Legal Basis: Premises Liability, Negligence.

5. Individual Alumni and Other Facilitators

Why they’re liable: Hazing often extends beyond current students. The lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi includes a former member and his spouse, because some significant hazing sessions allegedly occurred at their private residence. This shows active alumni involvement and complicity.
Legal Basis: Premises Liability (for hosting hazing at a private residence), Conspiracy, Aiding and Abetting, Direct Participation. Alumni often have significant assets or homeowner’s insurance that can cover damages.

6. Insurance Carriers

The “Deep Pockets”: While not typically named as primary defendants, insurance carriers are the ultimate source of recovery in most hazing cases. This includes the liability insurance policies held by the national fraternity, the university’s institutional insurance, and even homeowner’s insurance policies of individual members or alumni where hazing may have occurred.
Why our experience matters: Our firm, Attorney 911, is led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, both former insurance defense attorneys. We understand exactly how these insurance companies operate, how they value claims, and the tactics they employ to minimize payouts. This insider knowledge is a significant advantage for our clients in Macon County, allowing us to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery.

The multi-layered approach to identifying defendants ensures that every single party contributing to the hazing culture, whether actively participating or passively enabling, is held accountable. This approach is essential to securing maximum compensation for hazing victims and their families in Macon County.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Precedents Prove It

For families in Macon County, Georgia, seeking justice after a devastating hazing incident, it’s crucial to understand that these cases can, and often do, result in multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. We don’t just claim to fight for such outcomes; we’re aggressively pursuing a $10 million lawsuit right now, and our demands are founded on strong legal precedents established by other brave families across the nation.

These settlements and verdicts send an unequivocal message: hazing costs millions. And for families in Macon County, these precedents prove that the same legal strategies can be applied to win justice for victims here too.

The Message to Macon County Fraternities, Universities, and National Organizations: Hazing Will Cost You Millions.

Landmark Verdicts and Settlements: They Will Pay

Here are some of the most significant hazing cases that underscore the financial and legal accountability for these horrific acts:

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

Total Recovery: $10.1 Million+
What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, a pledge at Bowling Green State University, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during an initiation event. He died from acute alcohol poisoning.
The Outcome: Bowling Green State University settled with the family for $2.9 million. Pi Kappa Alpha national organization and individual members settled for an additional $7.2 million. Most recently, in December 2024, the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was ordered to pay an additional $6.5 million in a personal judgment. This precedent shows that our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is well within established compensation ranges.

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

Total Verdict: $6.1 Million Jury Verdict
What Happened: In September 2017, LSU pledge Max Gruver died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume excessive alcohol during a hazing ritual called “Bible Study.” Pledges were made to drink if they answered questions incorrectly.
The Outcome: A jury awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million. The criminal case led to a conviction for negligent homicide against a fraternity member. This tragic event also spurred the passage of the “Max Gruver Act,” making hazing a felony in Louisiana.

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

Total Recovery: $110 Million+ (Estimated)
What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza died after consuming 18 alcoholic drinks in 82 minutes during a “gauntlet” hazing ritual. He suffered a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding after multiple falls down basement stairs, and fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911. The horrific events were captured by security cameras.
The Outcome: While the exact settlement amount is confidential, it is estimated to be over $110 million from Penn State and Beta Theta Pi. Criminal charges were brought against 18 fraternity members, leading to multiple convictions for involuntary manslaughter and other offenses. This case also led to the “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law” in Pennsylvania.

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

The Same Fraternity as Our Case!
What Happened: In November 2017, Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” event.
The Outcome: Nine fraternity members were charged with hazing, and the chapter was permanently closed at FSU. The family reached a confidential settlement.
Critical Implication for Our Case: This proves that Pi Kappa Phi National knew about deadly hazing within its chapters years before Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized. They had a documented history of fatal hazing and failed to prevent it from happening again. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and foreseeability.

5. Other Recent Cases:

University of Alabama / Sigma Alpha Epsilon (2023): A lawsuit was filed alleging a traumatic brain injury (TBI) due to hazing, demonstrating that severe non-fatal injuries also lead to major litigation.
University of Houston / Pi Kappa Alpha (2017-2019): Disturbingly, the University of Houston itself had a prior hazing incident in 2017 where a student sustained a lacerated spleen. This means UH knew hazing was a problem on its campus and failed to prevent Leonel Bermudez from being victimized years later.

Why These Precedents Matter for Hazing Victims in Macon County

Our $10 Million Demand is Supported: Cases like Stone Foltz’s clearly validate multi-million dollar demands, even when the victim survives. While Leonel Bermudez thankfully survived, his injuries—severe rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, and the ongoing threat of permanent damage—are life-altering and merit substantial compensation.
Juries Will Impose Accountability: The $6.1 million verdict in the Gruver case unequivocally shows that juries are outraged by hazing and are willing to award significant sums to victims. The egregious acts Leonel suffered are likely to invoke similar outrage.
Hazing Leads to Legislative Change: The Max Gruver and Timothy Piazza laws demonstrate that these cases lead to real, systemic change, making future hazing more difficult and more severely punished. Justice for Macon County victims can drive similar reforms.
Proof of Institutional Knowledge: The Andrew Coffey case is a smoking gun against Pi Kappa Phi, showing they had direct knowledge of a fatal hazing incident years before Leonel Bermudez’s hospitalization. The Munoz case at UH proves the university also knew of severe hazing on its campus. This “pattern evidence” is crucial for proving gross negligence and securing punitive damages.

When a Macon County family steps forward after a hazing incident, they are not just fighting for their child; they are contributing to a nationwide movement for accountability. With Attorney 911, you get a legal team that understands these precedents and knows how to apply them to maximize your claim.

Texas Hazing Law Protects You: Consent Is Never a Defense

For families in Macon County whose child attends college in Texas, or for anyone seeking to understand the force of anti-hazing legislation, it’s vital to know that Texas law unequivocally condemns hazing. Our firm, Attorney 911, is based in Texas, and we leverage these robust state laws—along with federal statutes and common law—to protect hazing victims. Similar anti-hazing laws exist in Georgia (the Max Gruver Act, signed into law in 2021, and the Max Gruver 2.0 legislation passed in 2022) and most other states, providing similar protections regardless of where the hazing occurred. Our federal court authority and willingness to travel ensure that Macon County families can access our expertise, even if the incident happened outside of Texas.

Texas Education Code § 37.151-37.157: A Powerful Shield

The key takeaway for Macon County parents is this: Texas law explicitly states that consent is NOT a defense to hazing. This is a critical legal protection that disarms one of the most common arguments fraternities and universities attempt to use.

Let’s break down the core elements of Texas Anti-Hazing Law:

1. Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Broad and Comprehensive

Texas law defines hazing very broadly to encompass almost any harmful act:

“Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus… directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation, affiliation, holding office, or maintaining membership in an organization” that endangers mental or physical health or safety.
This includes:
- Physical brutality (whipping, beating, striking like the wooden paddles Leonel Bermudez endured, branding, shocking).
- Sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements (like being stripped in cold weather or sprayed with a hose), confinement, or calisthenics that subject the student to unreasonable risk of harm (such as Leonel’s 500 squats causing rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure).
- Forced consumption of food, liquids, or alcohol that risks harm (like Leonel being forced to eat until he vomited).
- Any activity that induces a student to commit a Penal Code violation.
- Coercing a student to consume drugs or alcohol to the point of intoxication.

Leonel Bermudez’s experience directly satisfies multiple elements of this definition, making his case, and others like it, clear violations of Texas law.

2. Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): The Game Changer

This is perhaps the most crucial aspect of the law for Macon County families:

“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 a fraternity, university, or individual that a student “voluntarily participated,” “knew what they were getting into,” or “could have left at any time” holds no legal weight in Texas courts. The Texas legislature explicitly created this provision because they understood that power dynamics, peer pressure, and the desire to belong make true consent impossible in a hazing context.

3. Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Individuals Can Go to Jail

Hazing is not just a campus infraction; it’s a crime in Texas:

Most hazing acts are at least a Class B Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
Hazing that causes serious bodily injury (like Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure) is a Class A Misdemeanor, carrying up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
Hazing that causes death is a State Jail Felony, punishable by 180 days to two years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.

The University of Houston spokesperson’s reference to “potential criminal charges” highlights the serious criminal implications faced by individuals involved in the Bermudez case.

4. Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): Chapters and Nationals Can Be Punished

Organizations themselves face stiff penalties if they condone or encourage hazing, or if their members commit hazing:

Fines of up to $10,000.
Denial of permission to operate on campus.
Forfeiture of property.

This directly applies to both the local Pi Kappa Phi chapter and the national organization, which were both aware of or enabled the hazing.

5. University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Accountability for Institutions

Texas law mandates that university chief administrative officers must report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days. Failure to report is a Class B Misdemeanor. This creates an additional layer of accountability for institutions to actively address and document hazing.

Civil Liability: Seeking Justice and Compensation for Macon County Victims

Beyond criminal charges, hazing victims and their families in Macon County can file civil lawsuits to recover damages for their suffering. These civil claims exist in almost every state and typically include:

Negligence Claims: Arguing that the university, national organization, or individuals failed in their duty of care to protect students, leading to injuries and damages.
Premises Liability: If the hazing occurred on property owned or controlled by the university (like the University of Houston in Leonel’s case) or an alumni’s home.
Negligent Supervision: When a national organization fails to adequately oversee its local chapters, or a university fails to properly supervise its Greek life organizations.
Assault and Battery: Direct claims against the individual perpetrators for intentional harmful contact.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For outrageous conduct that causes severe emotional harm, such as the waterboarding and psychological torment Leonel endured.

For Macon County hazing victims, understanding these legal frameworks is the first step toward reclaiming their power. We are here to guide you through this complex landscape and ensure that every applicable law is used to your advantage.

Why Attorney 911 Is the Right Choice for Macon County Hazing Victims

When a family in Macon County, Georgia, finds themselves grappling with the devastating aftermath of hazing, the need for exceptional legal representation is paramount. This isn’t just about filing a lawsuit; it’s about courageously confronting powerful institutions—universities, national fraternities, and their vast legal teams. At Attorney 911, we are uniquely equipped to meet this challenge, offering a blend of aggressive litigation, insider knowledge, and compassionate support that Macon County families deserve.

Meet the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ Fighting for You

Our firm is led by two accomplished attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, both of whom are deeply committed to representing victims and bringing perpetrators to justice. We are not just lawyers; we are advocates, strategists, and, most importantly, family-focused individuals who understand the profound impact of hazing.

Ralph P. Manginello: The Battle-Tested Strategist

Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, brings over 25 years of courtroom experience to every case. His background makes him an unparalleled asset for Macon County hazing victims:

Former Insurance Defense Attorney: Ralph spent crucial years working on the defense side for insurance companies. This invaluable experience means he knows exactly how insurance companies think, strategize, and attempt to minimize or deny claims. He understands their playbook from the inside and uses that knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for our clients.
Multi-Billion Dollar Case Experience: Ralph was directly involved in the BP Texas City Explosion litigation, a multi-billion dollar mass tort case that involved 15 deaths and over 180 injuries. This demonstrates his capacity to handle complex, high-stakes litigation against massive corporate defendants—the same skills that are critical when taking on national fraternities and large universities.
Dual-State Bar Admission (Texas AND New York): This unique qualification provides a strategic advantage when dealing with national fraternity organizations, many of which are headquartered or have significant operations outside of Texas. We can pursue cases in multiple jurisdictions as needed.
Federal Court Authority: Admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and with federal appellate experience, Ralph can pursue hazing cases in federal jurisdiction. This is essential for cases involving federal civil rights claims or national organizations.
Hazing-Specific Expertise: Ralph has direct experience with fraternity litigation, rhabdomyolysis cases (like Leonel Bermudez’s medical condition), and holding universities accountable. He understands the nuances of Greek life culture and institutional negligence.
Journalism Background: With a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Texas at Austin, Ralph is trained to investigate, uncover facts, and tell compelling stories—a vital skill needed to expose the truth in hazing cases and present it persuasively to a jury.
Community Roots: As a father of three and a youth sports coach, Ralph understands team dynamics and the environments where hazing often occurs. He’s deeply committed to community safety, reflected in his support for Crime Stoppers of Houston.

Lupe Eleno Peña: The Insurance Insider

Lupe Eleno Peña, our associate attorney, is crucial to our firm’s “insurance counter-intelligence system.” Lupe is male, and his unique background makes him an invaluable advocate:

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. Now, he applies that insider knowledge to benefit hazing victims. As he puts it, he’s “willing to outwork, outsmart, and outfight the other side.”
Third-Generation Texan with Financial Acumen: Lupe’s deep Texas roots and pre-law career in finance provide him with a keen understanding of economic damages, future earnings calculations, and business acumen—critical when dealing with corporate defendants like national fraternities and universities.
Bilingual (Fluent in Spanish): With Spanish as his first language, Lupe ensures that Spanish-speaking families in Macon County affected by hazing receive comprehensive legal services without language barriers, providing comfort and clarity during a difficult time.
Wrongful Death Expertise: His extensive experience representing families in wrongful death cases is directly applicable to the most tragic hazing outcomes.

Why Macon County Families Choose Attorney 911: Our Unfair Advantage

1. Aggressive Representation, Proven Results:
We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit that is making national headlines. This is not just a theoretical practice area for us; we are in the fight right now. Macon County families receive the benefit of our real-time, data-driven litigation strategies.

2. Nationwide Reach, Local Dedication:
While headquartered in Houston, our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses allow us to represent hazing victims across the United States, including Macon County, Georgia. We conduct remote consultations via video, and our team is prepared to travel to Macon County for depositions, client meetings, and trials when necessary. Distance is never a barrier to justice.

3. No Upfront Costs: Contingency Fee Basis:
We understand that families dealing with the trauma and expense of a hazing incident shouldn’t have to worry about legal fees. We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This levels the playing field against well-funded institutions and big insurance companies.

4. Insider Knowledge of the Defense:
Our attorneys, Ralph and Lupe, both worked for the other side. They know the tactics, the loopholes, and the weaknesses in the defense’s strategy. This isn’t just legal theory; it’s battlefield intelligence used to your advantage.

5. Comprehensive Approach to Liability:
We don’t guess who is responsible; we know. Our Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine tracks thousands of Greek organizations and their corporate structures, ensuring we identify every liable entity—from individual members to national headquarters and negligent universities.

6. Compassionate and Empathetic Support:
We lead with empathy. We understand the fear, anger, and heartbreak that hazing inflicts. Our staff is bilingual, friendly, and genuinely passionate about guiding families through these dark times. As one client testimonial states, “You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.”

7. Proven Track Record:
With thousands of cases handled and millions recovered for clients—including in multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against major corporations—our firm has the experience and tenacity to take on any defendant, no matter how powerful. Our Google reviews, with a 4.9-star rating from over 250 clients, speak to our consistent commitment to client satisfaction and results.

Choosing Attorney 911 means choosing a legal team that is aggressive, thorough, data-driven, and relentless in pursuing accountability. For families in Macon County facing the nightmare of hazing, we are the obvious choice to fight back.

What To Do Right Now if Your Child Has Been Hazed in Macon County

If you are a parent in Macon County, Georgia, reading this page, it’s likely you are experiencing one of the most frightening and confusing times of your life. Your child has been injured by hazing, and you’re searching for answers and help, perhaps in the middle of the night. We understand. The immediate aftermath of a hazing incident requires swift, decisive action to protect your child’s health, safety, and legal rights.

Here’s a clear, actionable guide on what you should do right now:

Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Medical Care

Your child’s physical and mental well-being is the absolute top priority.

Remove Your Child from the Situation: If your child is still in an environment where they could be hazed again, get them out immediately.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor or hidden, hazing can cause severe damage like internal injuries, rhabdomyolysis, concussions, or alcohol poisoning.
- Go to the nearest emergency room in Macon, like Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center, or a local urgent care clinic.
- Be explicit with medical staff about how the injuries occurred – state clearly that they are due to hazing. This medical documentation is crucial evidence.
- Ensure all injuries, no matter how small, are documented. Rhabdomyolysis symptoms, like severe muscle pain and dark urine, require immediate intervention.
Mental Health Support: Hazing inflicts severe psychological trauma. Seek immediate counseling or therapy from a qualified professional in Macon County. Document these sessions, as they are essential for demonstrating non-economic damages.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence – EVERYTHING Is Important

Time is of the essence. Evidence disappears quickly.

Medical Records: Obtain copies of ALL medical records, doctor’s notes, test results, and hospital bills. This will include documentation from Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center or any other facility.
Photos and Videos:
- Injuries: Take clear, well-lit photos of your child’s injuries from multiple angles and distances. Continue to photograph injuries as they heal.
- Hazing Locations: If safe to do so, document any locations where hazing occurred (fraternity house, off-campus residence, remote fields, landmarks around Macon County, etc.).
- Objects/Items: Photograph any items, clothing, or substances involved in the hazing.
Digital Communications: This is often the most damning evidence. DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING.
- Text Messages: Screenshot all relevant text messages between your child and fraternity members, other pledges, or anyone discussing hazing. Pay attention to dates and times.
- Group Chat Apps: Secure screenshots from apps like GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, WhatsApp, GroupMe, or Discord. These are often used to coordinate hazing.
- Emails: Save any emails related to the organization or specific hazing events.
Witness Information: Gather names, phone numbers, and any other contact information for anyone who witnessed the hazing, including other pledges, former members, or bystanders. They may be reluctant to come forward, but their information is vital.
Organizational Documents: Keep any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or codes of conduct provided by the fraternity or university that your child received.
Financial Records: Document any medical expenses, time missed from work (if applicable), lost tuition or fees, or missed scholarship opportunities due to the hazing.

Step 3: Avoid Critical Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

In the early stages, defense teams for fraternities and universities will be working to minimize their liability. Anything you say or do can be used against you.

DO NOT Delete Any Messages or Posts: Deleting digital evidence can be seen as obstruction and severely harm your case.
DO NOT Talk to Fraternity/Sorority Leadership: They are not on your side. They will try to get your child to recant, minimize the incident, or sign away their rights. Always defer them to your attorney.
DO NOT Give Statements to University Administration Alone: Universities have a vested interest in protecting their reputation. Any statements your child gives can be used to protect the institution, not your child.
DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, alumni, or university without legal counsel review. These documents may contain waivers of rights or confidentiality agreements designed to silence victims.
DO NOT Post About the Incident on Social Media: Anything posted can be taken out of context and used by the defense. This includes photos, angry messages, or even seemingly innocuous comments about being “fine.”
DO NOT Confront Perpetrators Personally: This could escalate the situation and compromise your child’s safety or future legal action.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Hazing Litigation Attorney Immediately

This is the most critical step to securing justice.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 Right Now: We are available 24/7 for a free, confidential consultation. The sooner you call, the sooner we can begin to preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights.
Statute of Limitations: In Georgia, like Texas, there is typically a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases. For example, the statute of limitations for bringing a personal injury claim in Georgia is generally two years from the date of the injury (Georgia Code § 9-3-33). While two years may seem like a long time, evidence disappears, memories fade, and opportunities to solidify your case diminish. Don’t wait.
Remote Consultations: Even though our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we regularly conduct video consultations with families in Macon County and across the country. Distance is not a barrier to receiving expert legal counsel. We will travel to Macon County for depositions, client meetings, and trials when necessary.
Contingency Fee: We take hazing cases on contingency. You pay absolutely $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win your case. This allows you to focus on your child’s recovery without financial burden.

Remember, Your Child’s Case Can Drive Change

As our attorney Lupe Pena 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.” Your courage in stepping forward in Macon County can help protect other students and hold negligent institutions accountable.

Macon County Families: You Are Not Alone. Call Us Today.

🚨 Have You or Your Child Been Hazed? Call Attorney 911 Now.

The terrifying experience your family in Macon County is enduring did not need to happen. Hazing incidents like what happened to Leonel Bermudez in Houston, and the tragic precedents of Andrew Coffey, Max Gruver, and Timothy Piazza, prove that these are preventable acts of violence. Your child, whether they attend Mercer University, Middle Georgia State University, Fort Valley State University, or Georgia College & State University, deserves safety and respect when they pursue higher education. When institutions and individuals prioritize tradition over human lives, we step in to enforce accountability.

Our attorneys are actively litigating a $10 million lawsuit for a hazing victim. This is not just a fight in Texas; it’s a nationwide stand against hazing, and we bring that same aggressive, data-driven approach directly to families in Macon County, Georgia.

Macon County Families: Call Us for a Free, Confidential Consultation Now.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Email: ralph@atty911.com

Website: attorney911.com

We are available 24/7 for hazing emergencies in Macon County and across the country.

Here’s why Macon County families choose Attorney 911 for hazing cases:

No Upfront Cost: We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay absolutely $0 upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This means financial constraints will never prevent you from seeking justice.
Proven Aggression: We are not theoretical. We are currently fighting a $10 million hazing lawsuit right now. We know how to build these complex cases, hold powerful institutions accountable, and pursue the maximum compensation for your child’s suffering.
Insider Advantage: Our lead attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are both former insurance defense lawyers. They’ve seen the playbook from the other side and use that knowledge to dismantle the defense strategies of fraternities and universities.
Federal Court Authority: Our admission to federal courts and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) allow us to pursue cases against national organizations, regardless of their headquarters or where the hazing occurred. We can take your Macon County case to the federal level if advantageous.
We Come to You: While based in Houston, we regularly conduct video consultations with families in Macon County. For depositions, client meetings, and trials, our team is committed to traveling wherever justice demands. Distance is not a barrier when your child’s future is at stake.
Expert Knowledge: We understand the nuances of hazing culture, medical injuries like rhabdomyolysis, and the complex web of liability involving individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and universities.
Bilingual Services: Our team includes fluent Spanish speakers (Se habla español) to ensure that Macon County’s Hispanic families can communicate clearly and comfortably throughout the legal process.

Our Fight Extends Beyond Fraternities and Sororities

Hazing is not limited to Greek life. We represent victims of hazing in various organizations and environments that operate in and around Macon County, including:

Macon County College & University Fraternities and Sororities: Including local chapters at Mercer University, Middle Georgia State University, Fort Valley State University, and Georgia College & State University, as well as any other institution where students from Macon County may enroll.
High School Sports Teams: Whether in Macon County, Bibb County, or elsewhere in Georgia.
Marching Bands and Other Arts Organizations.
ROTC Programs and Military Organizations.
Clubs and Student Groups at local schools and colleges.
Any organization that uses abuse as an “initiation” or “team-building” ritual.

To Other Victims of Hazing:

If you are a student or former student who survived hazing in Macon County or elsewhere, and you are reading Leonel Bermudez’s story, we want you to know: you are not alone. The fear of retribution, the shame, and the pressure to remain silent are powerful. But your voice matters. Many other students were subjected to the same abuse as Leonel.

As Lupe Pena 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 be your voice. Let us fight for you. Call us today, and let’s bring all responsible parties to justice.

Your Legal Emergency is Our Priority.
IMMEDIATE HELP. AGGRESSIVE REPRESENTATION. RESULTS.