If you’re reading this, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college, to explore new horizons, and to learn in a safe environment. Instead, they were tortured. They were abused. They were hazed to the point of severe injury or even death. We understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help families in Mitchell County fight back against the insidious practice of hazing that continues to plague our college campuses and youth organizations.

For too long, hazing has been dismissed as harmless fun, a rite of passage, or “boys being boys.” But for families in Mitchell County and across the nation, hazing is a nightmare. It’s a dangerous and often criminal act that leaves physical scars, psychological trauma, and, tragically, sometimes ends in wrongful death. We know that when a parent discovers their child has been threatened, coerced, or brutalized in the name of “brotherhood” or “sisterhood,” their world is shattered. That’s why we, Attorney911, stand ready to bring aggressive, data-driven, and relentless representation to your family, just as we are doing right now in a groundbreaking $10 million hazing lawsuit.

The Haunting Echoes of Hazing: What Happened to Leonel Bermudez Could Happen to Your Child in Mitchell County

Imagine being told your child was waterboarded. Hog-tied. Forced to eat until they vomited, then made to run through their own vomit. Forced to do hundreds of squats and push-ups until their muscles broke down, leading to kidney failure. This isn’t a scene from a horror film; this is exactly what happened to Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston in the fall of 2025. This disturbing case, which we are currently litigating, stands as a stark warning to every family in Mitchell County: hazing is real, it is brutal, and it is happening across America, including at universities where your children might attend.

Leonel Bermudez was what’s known as a “ghost rush,” a prospective fraternity member who wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet, but planned to transfer for the upcoming semester. Despite not being an official student, he accepted a bid to the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on September 16, 2025. What followed was an almost two-month-long nightmare of systematic abuse that culminated in a harrowing incident on November 3, 2025.

When Leonel finally made it home that night, he literally crawled up the stairs and collapsed into bed. The next day, he was so sore he couldn’t move. The day after that, he was worse. His mother, recognizing the severity, rushed him to the hospital on November 6. There, doctors confirmed he was passing brown urine, a tell-tale sign of severe muscle breakdown. He was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, conditions that could have been fatal. Leonel spent three terrifying nights and four grueling days in the hospital, fighting for his life, with the very real risk of permanent kidney damage.

This is the grim reality of hazing today. It’s not the playful pranks of movies; it’s physical violence, psychological torture, and life-threatening abuse. The fact that the perpetrators inflicted this upon someone who wasn’t even technically their student speaks volumes about the reckless disregard for human life and dignity that has become deeply embedded in some fraternity cultures.

Within days of Leonel’s hospitalization and the hazing being reported, the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi chapter was suspended. The members, facing immense pressure, voted to surrender their charter, and the chapter was permanently closed. Criminal referrals were initiated, and the University of Houston acknowledged the events were “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of our community standards.”

But accountability demanded more. On November 21, 2025, we, Attorney911, filed a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court. Our lawsuit names not only Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, the local chapter, and its housing corporation, but also the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity members – including the president, pledgemaster, and even a former member and his spouse who allowed hazing activities to occur at their residence.

This case is new, it is ongoing, and it is a testament to everything we stand for: aggressive representation of hazing victims, data-driven litigation strategy, and unrelenting pursuit of accountability for every single entity responsible for hazing injuries and deaths.

This is not theoretical. We are actively fighting in court, right now.
Parents in Mitchell County need to understand that the same national fraternities operate at universities in Georgia. The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client could be happening at their local chapters. The same institutional negligence that allowed hazing at the University of Houston exists at countless other campuses. If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority in or near Mitchell County, or any organization, they face the same risks. And we will bring the same aggressive representation to Mitchell County families that we are bringing to Leonel’s case.

You can read more about this unfolding case in these reports:

This case is the proof that Attorney911 is not theoretical. We are not hypothetical. We are not “someday we hope to handle hazing cases.” We are fighting right now. We tell Leonel’s story so parents understand what hazing looks like, and so they understand that Attorney911 is the firm that fights back for their community members in Mitchell County.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes in Mitchell County

Families in Mitchell County often have a preconceived notion of what hazing entails, perhaps envisioning harmless pranks or mild inconveniences. The brutal reality, however, is far more sinister. Hazing today is rarely about friendly competition or simple initiation rites; it’s about power, control, and often, torture. It’s an escalating cycle of abuse that can lead to severe physical injury, lasting psychological trauma, and even death.

In the case of Leonel Bermudez, the hazing he endured at Pi Kappa Phi was nothing short of criminal and barbaric. It exposed the true, horrific face of modern hazing:

Simulated Waterboarding: Leonel was sprayed in the face with a garden hose while doing calisthenics, simulating a drowning experience – a tactic considered torture when used against enemy combatants in wartime. He and other pledges were forced to run repeatedly under the threat of being waterboarded.
Extreme Physical Punishment: Days and nights were filled with grueling workouts, including over 100 push-ups, more than 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (sprinting drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and “save-your-brother” drills. These activities were forced until he was so exhausted he could not stand without help, sometimes after running two-mile warm-ups or repeated 100-yard crawls. Pledges were struck with wooden paddles. On one terrifying occasion, another pledge lost consciousness during these forced exertions and collapsed, requiring others to elevate his legs until he recovered.
Forced Consumption Until Vomiting: Leonel and other pledges were made to consume excessive amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited. Then, in a horrific display of degradation, they were forced to continue running sprints while in physical distress, and lie in their own vomit-soaked grass.
Psychological Torture and Humiliation: Leonel was forced to carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature at all times. He was coerced into stripping down to his underwear in cold weather. Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. Threats of physical punishment and expulsion from the fraternity were constant for non-compliance.
Sleep Deprivation: Pledges were forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, disrupting their crucial sleep and leading to chronic exhaustion.
Control and Servitude: Beyond the physical and psychological abuse, pledges were subjected to an enforced dress code, mandatory study hours, weekly interviews, and being reduced to personal servants for older members.

This is not “character building.” This is assault, battery, reckless endangerment, and often, criminal behavior. It’s a profound betrayal of trust, especially for young people from Mitchell County who leave home expecting a supportive environment. The physical harm can be devastating, leading to conditions like rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, as in Leonel’s case. The psychological scars, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and lasting trust issues, can impact victims for a lifetime.

Mitchell County families deserve to know that this systematic abuse is the true face of hazing, and it is a pervasive problem that transcends college campuses into sports teams, marching bands, ROTC programs, and various other clubs and organizations. When your child is subjected to this kind of treatment, it’s not a misunderstanding; it’s a crime, and it demands justice.

Who Is Responsible? Holding Every Liable Party Accountable for Hazing in Mitchell County

When hazing leaves a student injured or dead, you shouldn’t have to navigate the complex legal landscape alone. Our strategy, proven in cases like Leonel Bermudez’s, is to pursue every single individual and institution whose negligence or direct actions contributed to the harm. This comprehensive approach is crucial for achieving full accountability and maximum compensation for families in Mitchell County.

In hazing cases, liability typically extends far beyond the immediate perpetrators. We cast a wide net to ensure that everyone who knew, should have known, or directly participated in the hazing is held responsible:

The Local Fraternity or Sorority Chapter: This is often the most direct defendant. The chapter organizes the activities, the officers direct them, and the members participate. They are directly liable for the hazing acts committed. In Leonel’s case, the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter was where the hazing was orchestrated.
The National Fraternity or Sorority Organization: These national bodies have an overarching responsibility for their chapters. They establish rules, risk management policies, and codes of conduct. When hazing occurs, national organizations can be held liable for:
- Failure to Supervise: Not adequately monitoring local chapters.
- Failure to Enforce Policies: Having anti-hazing policies but failing to implement or enforce them.
- Pattern of Hazing: If there’s a history of hazing within the national organization (as with Pi Kappa Phi, which had a death in 2017), it indicates a systemic failure. These national organizations often have millions in assets and comprehensive liability insurance policies, making them significant targets for recovery.
The University or College: Educational institutions have a fundamental duty to protect their students from foreseeable harm, especially on campus or within recognized student organizations. Universities can be held liable for:
- Negligent Supervision: Failing to adequately oversee Greek life or other student organizations.
- Institutional Knowledge: Knowing about prior hazing incidents on campus (as the University of Houston did) but failing to take effective preventative action.
- Premises Liability: If hazing occurs in university-owned or university-controlled property, the institution has a responsibility as a landlord to ensure safety. In Leonel’s case, part of the hazing took place in a fraternity house directly owned by the University of Houston.
- Deliberate Indifference: Consciously disregarding known risks or reports of hazing.
- Failure to Implement Effective Policies: Having insufficient policies or failing to enforce existing ones.
Individual Fraternity or Sorority Members: Every person who actively participated in, directed, or even significantly contributed to the hazing can be held personally responsible. This includes:
- Chapter Officers: The president, pledgemaster, and other leaders who plan and direct hazing. They have a heightened duty of care and control.
- Active Members: Any members who participated in the hazing activities.
- Alumni or Former Members: As seen in our current lawsuit, a former member and his spouse were named as defendants because portions of the hazing occurred at their private residence. This extends liability to anyone who provides a venue or facilitates the hazing.
Advisors and Other Oversight Bodies: Faculty advisors, alumni advisors, or university staff with direct oversight responsibilities can also be held liable for negligent supervision or failure to act.
Insurance Carriers: While not direct perpetrators, the various liability insurance policies held by national organizations, universities, and individuals (such as homeowners’ or renters’ insurance) are crucial sources of recovery for victims and their families. As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña possess invaluable insider knowledge of how these carriers operate, empowering us to anticipate their strategies and maximize our clients’ claims.

For families in Mitchell County, this means that even if a local university or chapter attempts to sweep an incident under the rug, the web of liability is broad. We use our detailed intelligence databases on Greek organizations and decades of litigation experience to identify every single entity that can be held accountable, ensuring that those responsible for your child’s suffering cannot hide behind corporate structures or institutional denials. We do not just sue the chapter; we sue everyone with a hand in the incident.

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

Mitchell County families often wonder if fighting back against a powerful university or a national Greek organization is truly worth it. The answer is a resounding yes. Our courts and juries across America have sent an unequivocal message: hazing will not be tolerated, and its cost is measured in millions of dollars. The substantial verdicts and settlements in hazing cases demonstrate that justice can be served, and they fuel our resolve to fight for your child.

These landmark cases prove that your child’s health, safety, and life are priceless. We leverage these real-world results to demand the maximum compensation possible for our clients in Mitchell County and nationwide:

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

Total Recovery: $10.1 Million+
Stone Foltz, a pledge at Bowling Green State University, died in March 2021 from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha “Big/Little” event. This tragic loss resulted in:

$2.9 million settlement from Bowling Green State University, demonstrating the university’s institutional liability.
$7.2 million in settlements from Pi Kappa Alpha National and various individual members.
In December 2024, a jury delivered a separate $6.5 million judgment against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, highlighting that individual perpetrators cannot escape personal financial accountability.
The combined payout of over $10.1 million in the Stone Foltz case is the largest hazing settlement in Ohio’s public university history. Our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is directly aligned with this significant precedent.

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

Jury Verdict: $6.1 Million
In September 2017, Maxwell Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman at LSU, died from acute alcohol poisoning with a blood alcohol content of 0.495—more than six times the legal limit. He was forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol during a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” event where incorrect answers led to more drinking. A jury delivered a powerful message by awarding his family $6.1 million. This case also led to the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, making hazing a felony. This verdict proves that juries are willing to award multi-million dollar sums for hazing-related deaths.

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

Estimated Total Recovery: $110 Million+
Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old sophomore, died in February 2017 after consuming 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi hazing ritual at Penn State. He suffered multiple falls, including down a flight of stairs, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity brothers waited 12 hours before calling for help, a delay that was captured on shocking security camera footage. The resulting settlements, though largely confidential, are estimated to exceed $110 million. This monumental case, with its strong evidence of deliberate indifference, also led to Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law. This precedent demonstrates the immense value of cases with clear evidence of egregious conduct and institutional cover-ups.

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

Chapter Closed, Criminal Charges, Confidential Settlement
Andrew Coffey died in November 2017 from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Wild Turkey 101 bourbon during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” event at Florida State University. Crucially, this is the SAME national fraternity, Pi Kappa Phi, involved in Leonel Bermudez’s case. Nine fraternity members faced criminal hazing charges, the chapter was permanently closed, and a civil suit resulted in a confidential settlement. This case is a critical piece of evidence against Pi Kappa Phi National, illustrating their documented history of deadly hazing that they failed to prevent from recurring with Leonel Bermudez eight years later.

These cases are not isolated incidents; they represent a nationwide pattern of institutional failure and reckless disregard for student safety. They serve as a powerful warning to universities and fraternities: hazing costs millions. We leverage these real outcomes to show defendants in Mitchell County that we are prepared to take them to trial and secure similar judgments if they do not adequately compensate our clients. This proven track record gives Mitchell County families the confidence that they have a powerful advocate on their side, one who knows how to win.

Texas Law Protects You: A Shield Against Hazing in Mitchell County

For families in Mitchell County facing the aftermath of a hazing incident, understanding the law is the first step toward seeking justice. While the specifics of hazing laws can vary by state, Texas has robust statutes designed to protect students and hold perpetrators and institutions accountable. These laws are foundational to our litigation strategy, ensuring that consent is never an excuse for abuse, and that those responsible face clear legal consequences.

Texas Hazing Statute: Education Code §37.151-37.157

Under Texas law, hazing is clearly defined and strictly prohibited. This is crucial for parents and victims in Mitchell County to understand:

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151):
Texas law broadly defines “hazing” as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act occurring on or off campus, directed against a student for the purpose of joining or maintaining membership in an organization, if the act:

Involves physical brutality: Such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, or placing a harmful substance on the body.
Includes activities risky to health: Like sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in small spaces, calisthenics, or other activities posing an unreasonable risk of harm or adversely affecting mental or physical health.
Involves forced consumption: Such as food, liquid, alcoholic beverages, drugs, or other substances that pose an unreasonable risk or adversely affect health.
Requires illegal acts: Any activity that induces or requires a student to perform a duty or task violating the Penal Code.
Coerces alcohol/drug consumption: Forcing a student to consume alcohol or drugs to the point of intoxication.

Application to Leonel Bermudez: As detailed, Leonel’s ordeal satisfied multiple of these legal definitions: he was struck with wooden paddles (physical brutality), subjected to extreme calisthenics resulting in kidney failure (activities risky to health), forced to consume food until vomiting (forced consumption), and waterboarded (torture and physical brutality). This comprehensive definition ensures that virtually all forms of hazing fall under the purview of Texas law.

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152):
Texas hazing laws carry serious criminal penalties, underscoring the severity of these acts:

Class B Misdemeanor: For engaging in hazing, soliciting, encouraging, aiding hazing, or failing to report hazing with firsthand knowledge (up to 180 days jail, $2,000 fine).
Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes serious bodily injury (up to 1 year jail, $4,000 fine).
State Jail Felony: If hazing causes death (180 days-2 years state jail, $10,000 fine).

The medical condition Leonel suffered – rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure – undeniably constitutes “serious bodily injury,” meaning individuals involved could face Class A Misdemeanor charges. The University of Houston itself noted the potential for “criminal charges,” signaling the seriousness of the allegations.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
The law extends responsibility beyond individuals to the organizations themselves. A fraternity, sorority, or club commits an offense if it condones or encourages hazing, or if its officers, members, pledges, or alumni commit or assist in hazing. Penalties can include fines up to $10,000, denial of permission to operate, and forfeiture of property. This provision is vital for holding chapters and national organizations accountable.

Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154):
This is arguably one of the most critical aspects of Texas hazing law for Mitchell County families: “It is not a defense to prosecution… that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”
This means that any claim by a fraternity or university that your child “went along with it” or “knew what they were signing up for” is legally invalid. Under the law, you cannot consent to be hazed. This provision directly counters a common defense tactic and affirms the victim’s right to justice regardless of perceived participation.

Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155):
Chief administrative officers of educational institutions are legally required 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 places a clear legal obligation on universities to be transparent and accountable.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Prosecution

While Texas law provides for criminal prosecution, our focus is on civil lawsuits, which allow Mitchell County victims and their families to pursue comprehensive damages. These claims include:

Negligence: Demonstrating that the university, national organization, or individuals failed in their duty of care towards your child, leading to their injuries.
Premises Liability: If hazing occurred on property owned or controlled by the university (as in Leonel’s case) or an alumni house, holding the property owner responsible for maintaining a safe environment.
Negligent Supervision: Arguing that the national fraternity or university failed to adequately supervise individuals or chapters, thus allowing hazing to occur.
Assault and Battery: Direct claims against individuals who physically harmed your child.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For the extreme psychological suffering caused by outrageous hazing conduct.

The laws are clear: hazing is illegal, dangerous, and carries severe consequences. For families in Mitchell County, these legal frameworks provide a pathway to justice, allowing us to pursue not only financial compensation but also to force institutional change that protects other students.

Why Attorney911? Your Fierce Advocate in Mitchell County

When your child is harmed by hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a relentless advocate who understands the intricate legal landscape, the devious tactics of opposing counsel, and the profound trauma your family is enduring. Attorney911 offers Mitchell County families unparalleled expertise and a unique strategic advantage in hazing litigation. We don’t just file lawsuits; we build compelling cases designed to win.

Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice for your family in Mitchell County:

Currently Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Case: This isn’t theoretical expertise. We are actively fighting for Leonel Bermudez against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston right now. This live litigation demonstrates our commitment, deep understanding, and current experience in complex hazing cases. Mitchell County families benefit directly from this real-time knowledge and aggressive approach.
The “Insurance Counter-Intelligence System” – Former Insurance Defense Attorneys: Both of our managing partners, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, began their careers defending insurance companies and corporations. Ralph has over 25 years of courtroom experience, including multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP. Lupe honed his skills at Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm, handling cases across products liability, personal injury defense, and more. This “insider baseball” knowledge is an invaluable asset. They know precisely how insurance companies value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts. They’ve seen the playbook from the other side, and now they use that intelligence to dismantle defenses and maximize recovery for victims in Mitchell County.
- From Lupe Peña to Mitchell County defendants: “With Mr. Peña you get an attorney willing to outwork, outsmart and outfight the other side.” He ensures we stay one step ahead of the institutions trying to evade responsibility.
Federal Court Authority: We are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and have experience in federal appellate courts. This federal court admission means we can challenge national fraternities and universities in federal jurisdiction, an essential tool when dealing with multi-state organizations. This grants us powerful reach for Mitchell County cases that might involve national Greek life or federal campus safety regulations.
Dual-State Bar Licenses (Texas AND New York): Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York. This dual licensure provides a strategic advantage, especially when dealing with national fraternities or universities headquartered in different states. It expands our reach and legal flexibility, directly benefiting Mitchell County families whose cases may involve entities based outside of Georgia.
Proven Track Record in High-Stakes Litigation: Ralph’s experience litigating against BP after the Texas City explosion (a mass tort case involving 15 deaths and 180+ injuries) demonstrates our firm’s capacity to take on massive corporate defendants and secure justice in the face of complex legal challenges. This experience is directly applicable to hazing cases against large universities and national Greek organizations.
Hazing-Specific Expertise and Rhabdomyolysis Litigation Experience: We don’t just dabble in hazing cases; we specialize in them. Ralph Manginello has direct experience with rhabdomyolysis hazing cases, making him uniquely qualified to understand the medical complexities and long-term implications of injuries like Leonel Bermudez’s. We understand the unique subcultures of Greek life, the psychological dynamics of hazing, and the institutional failures that allow it to persist.
Data-Driven Litigation Strategy: We maintain an extensive intelligence database on Greek organizations, including IRS filings, legal names, EINs, addresses, and incident histories. When hazing occurs, we don’t guess who is responsible; we know. This allows us to precisely identify every liable entity, from local chapters to national headquarters and alumni housing corporations, ensuring a comprehensive legal assault.
Compassionate, Parent-Facing Approach: While our legal strategy is aggressive, our tone with clients is empathetic and supportive. We understand the emotional toll hazing takes on victims and their families. Our 4.9-star Google rating with over 250 reviews consistently praises our communication, care, and dedication, with many clients stating, “They treat you like family.” We extend this same warmth and understanding to families in Mitchell County.
Bilingual Services (Se Habla Español): Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, ensuring that Hispanic families in Mitchell County facing hazing incidents can receive comprehensive legal services without language barriers. We believe justice should be accessible to everyone.
Contingency Fee Basis – No Upfront Cost: We believe that the cost of legal representation should never be a barrier to justice, especially for families grappling with the financial and emotional fallout of hazing. We take all hazing cases on contingency. This means:
- $0 upfront: You pay nothing to hire us.
- We don’t get paid unless you get paid: Our fees are a percentage of the settlement or verdict we secure for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.
  This structure levels the playing field, allowing families in Mitchell County to fight powerful institutions without financial risk.
Willingness to Travel and Remote Consultations: While headquartered in Houston, we proudly serve hazing victims in Mitchell County and across America. Distance is not a barrier to justice. We offer convenient video consultations for families who cannot travel, and our attorneys will travel to Mitchell County for depositions, client meetings, and trials when necessary.

Choosing Attorney911 means choosing a firm that is actively engaged in the fight against hazing, armed with insider knowledge, proven strategies, and a deep commitment to justice. For Mitchell County families, we offer not just legal representation, but a promise to fight for the accountability and compensation your child deserves.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Mitchell County Hazing Victims

The moment you realize your child has been subjected to hazing, every minute counts. The actions you take immediately can significantly impact the strength of your legal case. This is a legal emergency, and just like any emergency, a clear, decisive response is critical. For families in Mitchell County, waiting can mean lost evidence, forgotten details, and expiring legal rights.

Here’s our critical guidance on what you should do right now if your child has been a victim of hazing:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention, Even if Injuries Seem Minor:

Prioritize Health: Your child’s physical and mental well-being is paramount. Get them to a doctor, urgent care, or emergency room immediately.
Document Everything: Ensure all injuries, however small, are thoroughly documented by medical professionals. Insist that the medical records clearly state how the injuries occurred – “hazing incident,” “fraternity event,” “forced physical activity,” etc.
Follow Doctor’s Orders: Adhere strictly to all medical advice, attend all appointments, and complete all prescribed treatments (physical therapy, counseling, medication). Any deviation can be used by defense attorneys to argue that the injuries were not severe or that your child was not committed to recovery. We consistently emphasize this point in our client education videos at Attorney911, and you can learn more by watching “Why Seeing a Doctor Right After an Accident Is Critical.”

2. Preserve All Evidence – EVERYTHING:

Photographs and Videos: Take clear, timestamped photos and videos of any visible injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, swelling) as soon as possible, and continue to document their healing progression. Also, capture images or videos of the locations where hazing occurred, any items used in the hazing, and any relevant surroundings. Our video “Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case?” highlights the critical importance of this step.
Digital Communications: This is often the most damning evidence. DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING. Save every text message, GroupMe chat, Snapchat conversation, Instagram DM, email, or social media post related to the hazing. Screenshot group chats, individual messages, and any posts from other members. This includes any “rules,” schedules, or threats from the organization.
Documents: Collect any pledge manuals, schedules, codes of conduct, or written rules distributed by the organization.
Witness Information: Gather the names, phone numbers, and contact information for any other pledges, active members, or bystanders who witnessed the hazing. Their testimony can be invaluable.
Social Media Review: Go through your child’s social media accounts and screenshot any relevant posts, photos, or mentions from the time of the hazing. Be aware that the defense will scrutinize their social media activity. Our video “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident” provides crucial warnings.
Financial and Academic Records: Keep records of all medical bills, receipts for expenses related to the injury, proof of lost wages (if applicable), and any academic documents that show a decline in performance or withdrawal due to the hazing.

3. DO NOT Communicate with the Perpetrators or Institutions Without Legal Counsel:

Silence is Golden: Do not speak directly with fraternity/sorority leadership, chapter members, university administrators, or their attorneys. They are not on your side; they are trying to protect themselves and their institutions.
No Recorded Statements: Absolutely refuse to give any recorded statements to anyone without your attorney present. Anything you say can be twisted and used against you. Our video “Never Talk to the Insurance Company After an Accident” underscores this advice.
Do Not Sign Anything: Do not sign any documents, waivers, or agreements from the fraternity, sorority, or university. These documents often waive your legal rights to pursue compensation.
Avoid Social Media Engagement: Refrain from posting about the incident on social media, discussing it publicly, or engaging in any online debates.

4. Contact Attorney911 IMMEDIATELY – TIME IS CRITICAL:

Free Consultation: We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to assess your case. Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We can help Mitchell County families navigate this difficult time.
Statute of Limitations: In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death cases is two years from the date of the injury or death. This may seem like a long time, but evidence disappears, memories fade, and cases become harder to build as time passes. Delaying can mean losing your right to sue forever. Our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” provides more details on this crucial deadline.
Evidence Preservation: The sooner we are involved, the faster we can send preservation letters to all liable parties, legally compelling them to retain evidence like text messages, security camera footage, and internal communications that they might otherwise destroy.
Local and National Reach: Even if you are in Mitchell County, our firm – headquartered in Houston with federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses – can represent your child wherever the hazing occurred. We offer remote consultations via video and will travel to Mitchell County for depositions and trials when necessary.

5. Report The Hazing (Strategically):

Consult Your Attorney First: Before making any official reports, discuss the best strategy with your attorney. Sometimes, a well-timed report can be beneficial; other times, it can prematurely alert the defendants and allow them to destroy evidence.
University-Mandated Reporting (Title IX): Your attorney can help you understand your rights and options for reporting to the university or through Title IX channels if applicable.
Law Enforcement: Depending on the severity and nature of the hazing, a police report may be warranted. Your attorney can advise on this and help ensure the report is accurate and thorough.

Your child’s future, and the accountability of those who harmed them, depend on prompt, informed action. Do not let fear or confusion paralyze you. As Lupe Peña said 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.” Call Attorney911 today.

Mitchell County Families: We Are Here To Help – Call Us Now

If you’re reading this, your child has likely suffered unimaginable trauma, physical injury, or worse, due to hazing. The pain, anger, and fear you feel are valid, and you are not alone. We want you to know that Attorney911 stands ready to fight for your family in Mitchell County with the same aggressive, data-driven, and compassionate approach we bring to every hazing case, including our current $10 million lawsuit.

DO NOT WAIT. Every moment counts.

Time is not on your side. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and crucial legal deadlines can pass. If your child has been a victim of hazing, whether at a university in Georgia, Texas, or anywhere in the nation, please contact us immediately.

Mitchell County Families – Call Now – Free Consultation

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Available 24/7 for Mitchell County hazing emergencies.

Email us directly: ralph@atty911.com

Visit our website for more information: attorney911.com

We Work on Contingency – No Upfront Cost for Mitchell County Families

We understand that you are going through an incredibly difficult time, both emotionally and financially. We believe that the cost of legal representation should never prevent a family from seeking justice. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis.

You pay $0 upfront.
We don’t get paid unless and until you get paid.
We bear the financial risk, aligning our interests directly with yours.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Mitchell County Hazing Case?

Active Litigation Against Major Defendants: We are currently battling Pi Kappa Phi National, the University of Houston, and 13 individuals in a $10 million hazing lawsuit. This isn’t theoretical; this is real-time, in-the-trenches experience you can trust.
Insider Knowledge of Defense Tactics: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are former insurance defense attorneys. We know how universities and national organizations strategize against victims, and we use that knowledge to your advantage.
Nationwide Reach with Local Sensitivity: While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our federal court authority and dual-state bar licenses (Texas and New York) allow us to pursue justice for Mitchell County families regardless of where the hazing occurred. We offer video consultations for your convenience and will travel to Mitchell County for depositions and trials as needed. Distance is not a barrier to justice.
Proven Track Record: From multi-million dollar verdicts against corporate giants to precedent-setting hazing cases, our history of aggressive representation yields results.
Compassionate & Bilingual Support: We treat you like family. Our team is dedicated to providing warm, empathetic support throughout your ordeal. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, offering seamless communication for Mitchell County’s Spanish-speaking families.

Who We Represent in Mitchell County

Hazing is not limited to Greek life. We represent victims of hazing in:

Fraternities and sororities at universities and colleges near Mitchell County, such as Albany State University, Darton State College, Georgia Southwestern State University, and other institutions across Georgia and the Southeast.
High school and college sports teams, including those in Mitchell County schools.
Marching bands and musical ensembles.
ROTC programs.
Clubs, associations, and other student organizations.
Any group that uses dangerous or abusive initiation rites.

Hazing is a crisis that betrays the trust of students and families. The culture of silence and the institutional indifference must end. In Mitchell County, we understand the tight-knit community values and the devastating impact such violations have. We are committed to fighting for justice within your community and beyond.

Don’t let them get away with it. Let us be your first responders in this legal emergency. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Let’s bring them to justice. Enough is enough.

Mitchell County Fraternity Hazing Attorneys | $24M Pike Settlements Exposed | Attorney911 — The Firm That Closed Beta Nu | Federal Court | Former Insurance Defense | 1-888-ATTY-911