🏛️ Hazing Lawsuit Attorney in Morgan County, Tennessee | Attorney 911
Morgan County Families: We Are Fighting the Hazing Crisis — And We Will Fight for You
If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Morgan County, Tennessee, you are not alone. We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston — and we are ready to bring that same aggressive representation to Morgan County families.
Hazing doesn’t stop at state lines. The same fraternities that waterboarded our client in Houston operate chapters near Morgan County. The same universities that failed to protect students in Houston have the same oversight failures at institutions near Morgan County. And the same culture of abuse that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez exists right here in Tennessee.
Morgan County parents deserve the same legal firepower we’re bringing to Texas. Your child deserves justice.
🚨 The Hazing Crisis in Tennessee: What Morgan County Families Need to Know
Hazing Is Not “Tradition” — It’s Abuse
Hazing is not harmless fun. It’s not “building brotherhood.” It’s not “paying your dues.”
It is:
- Assault — Beating, paddling, physical abuse
- Torture — Waterboarding, sleep deprivation, forced consumption
- Battery — Unwanted physical contact, sexual humiliation
- Reckless endangerment — Forcing activities that cause rhabdomyolysis, alcohol poisoning, traumatic brain injury
- Sometimes manslaughter — When hazing kills
And it happens at colleges and universities near Morgan County, Tennessee.
Tennessee Hazing Laws: Your Legal Rights
Tennessee has strong anti-hazing laws designed to protect students. Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 49-7-123, hazing is defined as:
“Any intentional or reckless act, on or off campus, by one student acting alone or with others, which is directed against any other student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student, or which induces or coerces a student to endanger his or her mental or physical health or safety, for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization.”
Key Provisions for Morgan County Families:
- Criminal Penalties: Hazing is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and fines up to $2,500.
- Consent Is Not a Defense: Even if your child “agreed” to participate, that does not excuse the conduct.
- Organizational Liability: Fraternities, sororities, and universities can be held legally responsible for hazing that occurs on their watch.
- Reporting Requirements: Universities must report hazing incidents to state authorities. Failure to report is a violation of the law.
If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Morgan County, Tennessee, they have legal rights — and so do you.
💔 The Case That Shows Morgan County Families What Hazing Really Looks Like
Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi: A $10 Million Warning to Morgan County
What Happened:
In Fall 2025, Leonel Bermudez, a prospective member of Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston, was subjected to weeks of systematic abuse that hospitalized him for three nights and four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
The Hazing Activities:
- Waterboarding with a garden hose — simulated drowning, a form of torture
- Forced to perform 500+ squats and 100+ pushups until he collapsed
- Struck with wooden paddles — physical assault with weapons
- Forced to eat milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting — then forced to continue running
- Sleep deprivation — forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours
- Humiliation — forced to carry a fanny pack with sexual objects, stripped to underwear in cold weather
- Psychological torture — another pledge hog-tied face-down on a table for over an hour
The Result:
- Severe rhabdomyolysis — muscle breakdown causing kidney damage
- Acute kidney failure — life-threatening condition requiring hospitalization
- Four days in the hospital — fighting for his life
- Permanent health risks — potential long-term kidney damage, PTSD, and anxiety
The Response:
- Pi Kappa Phi closed the chapter immediately — but only after the hospitalization
- The University of Houston launched an investigation — but only after a student was hospitalized
- No one apologized — Pi Kappa Phi’s statement said they “look forward to returning to campus”
Why This Matters to Morgan County Families:
This happened in Houston, Texas. But the same fraternities operate near Morgan County, Tennessee. The same universities near Morgan County have the same oversight failures. And the same culture of abuse exists in Tennessee.
If your child is being hazed at a college or university near Morgan County, we will fight for you with the same intensity we’re bringing to this case.
🏛️ Who Is Liable for Hazing in Morgan County?
When hazing occurs, everyone who participated or allowed it to happen can be held legally responsible. In our Pi Kappa Phi case, we are pursuing:
1. The Local Chapter
- Direct liability: The chapter organized and conducted the hazing.
- Officers: The president, pledgemaster, and other leaders who directed the activities.
- Members: Every individual who participated in or witnessed the hazing and failed to stop it.
2. The National Organization
- Oversight failure: National fraternities and sororities have a duty to supervise their chapters. When they fail, they are liable.
- Pattern of negligence: Pi Kappa Phi had a student die from hazing in 2017 (Andrew Coffey at FSU). They did nothing to fix their culture — and now Leonel Bermudez is hospitalized.
- Deep pockets: National organizations have substantial assets and insurance policies.
3. The University
- Premises liability: If the hazing occurred on university-owned property (like a fraternity house), the university is responsible for maintaining a safe environment.
- Negligent supervision: Universities have a duty to monitor Greek life and prevent hazing. When they fail, they are liable.
- Institutional knowledge: If the university knew or should have known about hazing (e.g., prior incidents), their liability increases.
4. Individual Perpetrators
- Personal liability: Every person who participated in the hazing can be sued individually.
- Criminal exposure: Hazing is a crime in Tennessee. Individuals can face jail time.
- Homeowner’s insurance: If hazing occurred at a private residence, the homeowner’s insurance may provide coverage.
5. Insurance Companies
- Liability coverage: Fraternities, sororities, and universities typically have insurance policies that cover hazing incidents.
- Deep pockets: Insurance companies have the financial resources to pay substantial settlements and verdicts.
Morgan County families: If your child has been hazed, we will pursue every liable party — and every available dollar.
💰 What Is Your Morgan County Hazing Case Worth?
Hazing cases can result in substantial compensation for victims and their families. The amount depends on factors like:
| Factor | How It Affects Your Case Value |
|---|---|
| Severity of injuries | More severe injuries (e.g., hospitalization, permanent damage) = higher compensation |
| Medical expenses | Past and future medical bills are fully compensable |
| Psychological harm | PTSD, anxiety, depression, and emotional distress are compensable |
| Lost wages | Time missed from work or school due to injuries |
| Academic impact | Disruption to education, lost scholarships, delayed graduation |
| Egregious conduct | Waterboarding, forced consumption, physical abuse = higher punitive damages |
| Pattern of abuse | Prior hazing incidents at the same chapter or university increase liability |
| Institutional knowledge | If the university or national organization knew about hazing and did nothing, punitive damages apply |
Precedent Cases: Multi-Million Dollar Proof
| Case | University | Fraternity | Outcome | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stone Foltz | Bowling Green State | Pi Kappa Alpha | Settlement | $10.1 million |
| Maxwell Gruver | Louisiana State | Phi Delta Theta | Jury Verdict | $6.1 million |
| Timothy Piazza | Penn State | Beta Theta Pi | Settlement | $110+ million |
| Andrew Coffey | Florida State | Pi Kappa Phi | Settlement | Confidential |
| Adam Oakes | Virginia Commonwealth | Delta Chi | Settlement | $4+ million |
Morgan County families: These cases prove that hazing victims can — and do — win millions. Your case could be next.
📋 What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Morgan County
If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Morgan County, Tennessee, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and legal deadlines apply. Here’s what to do:
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
- Even if your child says they’re “fine,” get them checked by a doctor.
- Hazing injuries like rhabdomyolysis, alcohol poisoning, and traumatic brain injury may not be immediately apparent.
- Medical records are critical evidence for your case.
2. Preserve All Evidence
- Photos and videos: Document injuries, hazing locations, and any physical evidence.
- Text messages and social media: Save all communications about the hazing (GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram, etc.).
- Witness information: Get names and contact information for other pledges or witnesses.
- Documents: Save pledge manuals, schedules, or any written rules given to your child.
3. Do NOT Talk to the Organization or University Alone
- Fraternities, sororities, and universities will try to control the narrative.
- They may ask your child to sign documents or give statements.
- Do not sign anything without consulting an attorney first.
- Do not give recorded statements to university officials or insurance companies.
4. Report the Hazing
- To the university: File a formal complaint with the university’s Title IX office or student affairs department.
- To law enforcement: Consider filing a police report. Hazing is a crime in Tennessee.
- To the national organization: Report the incident to the fraternity or sorority’s national headquarters.
5. Contact an Attorney Immediately
- Hazing cases are complex. You need an attorney with experience fighting powerful institutions.
- Statutes of limitations apply. In Tennessee, you typically have 1 year to file a personal injury lawsuit.
- Evidence disappears fast. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
📞 Morgan County Families: Call Us Now for a Free Consultation
If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Morgan County, Tennessee, we can help. We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit — and we are ready to bring that same aggressive representation to Morgan County families.
Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Morgan County Hazing Case?
✅ Hazing Litigation Experts: We are currently fighting a $10 million hazing case against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know how to win.
✅ Former Insurance Defense Attorneys: Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked for insurance companies before switching sides. We know their playbook — and we use it against them.
✅ Federal Court Authority: We are admitted to practice in U.S. District Court, giving us the power to pursue hazing cases nationwide — including in Morgan County.
✅ Dual-State Bar Admission: Licensed in Texas and New York, with experience taking on national fraternities and universities.
✅ Aggressive Representation: We don’t back down from powerful institutions. We fight for maximum compensation for our clients.
✅ Contingency Fee Basis: You pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
✅ Se Habla Español: We serve Spanish-speaking families in Morgan County without language barriers.
✅ Nationwide Reach: While we are based in Texas, we represent hazing victims across America — including in Morgan County, Tennessee.
📞 Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com
We offer free, confidential consultations for Morgan County families. We will travel to Morgan County for depositions, trials, and client meetings.
Morgan County parents: Your child’s safety and future are at stake. Don’t wait — call us now.
🏫 Colleges and Universities Near Morgan County, Tennessee
Morgan County is home to a strong community with deep family values. Many Morgan County families send their children to colleges and universities across Tennessee, where they may encounter Greek life and hazing risks. We serve hazing victims from all institutions near Morgan County, including:
Public Universities Near Morgan County:
- Tennessee Technological University (TTU) — Cookeville, TN (~60 miles from Morgan County)
- Greek Life: Active fraternities and sororities, including Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Chi, and others with documented hazing histories.
- University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) — Knoxville, TN (~100 miles from Morgan County)
- Greek Life: One of the largest Greek systems in the country. Multiple hazing incidents reported in recent years.
- Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) — Murfreesboro, TN (~120 miles from Morgan County)
- Greek Life: Active Greek community with multiple fraternities and sororities.
- East Tennessee State University (ETSU) — Johnson City, TN (~150 miles from Morgan County)
- Greek Life: Growing Greek presence with hazing risks.
Private Colleges Near Morgan County:
- Bryan College — Dayton, TN (~70 miles from Morgan County)
- Greek Life: Smaller Greek community, but hazing can occur in any organization.
- Lee University — Cleveland, TN (~90 miles from Morgan County)
- Greek Life: Active fraternities and sororities with potential hazing risks.
- Carson-Newman University — Jefferson City, TN (~100 miles from Morgan County)
- Greek Life: Greek organizations present, with oversight challenges similar to larger schools.
Community Colleges Near Morgan County:
- Roane State Community College — Multiple campuses, including Harriman (~20 miles from Morgan County)
- Greek Life: Limited Greek presence, but clubs and organizations may have hazing risks.
- Chattanooga State Community College — Chattanooga, TN (~100 miles from Morgan County)
- Greek Life: Smaller Greek community, but hazing can occur in any setting.
Morgan County families: No matter where your child attends school in Tennessee, if they have been hazed, we can help.
⚠️ Warning Signs of Hazing in Morgan County Students
Hazing often goes unreported because victims are ashamed, afraid of retaliation, or don’t recognize it as abuse. Morgan County parents: Watch for these warning signs in your child:
Physical Signs:
- Unexplained injuries (bruises, cuts, burns)
- Extreme fatigue or exhaustion
- Difficulty walking or moving
- Signs of alcohol poisoning (vomiting, confusion, blackouts)
- Weight loss or changes in appetite
- Sleep disturbances
Behavioral Signs:
- Sudden changes in mood or behavior
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Increased secrecy about activities
- Fear of certain people or places
- Reluctance to talk about their organization
- Anxiety, depression, or PTSD symptoms
Academic Signs:
- Declining grades
- Missing classes or assignments
- Withdrawal from extracurricular activities
- Dropping out of school
Social Signs:
- Sudden new friendships with older students
- Wearing unusual clothing or accessories
- Carrying strange objects (e.g., paddles, fanny packs)
- Avoiding certain topics or conversations
If you notice these signs in your Morgan County child, they may be experiencing hazing. Call us immediately for guidance.
📢 A Message to Morgan County Fraternities and Sororities
To the fraternities and sororities operating near Morgan County, Tennessee: We are watching.
The same legal strategies that secured $10 million verdicts in Texas and across America apply to your chapters. The same national organizations that paid millions for hazing deaths and injuries oversee your activities. And the same culture of abuse that hospitalized our client in Houston exists in Tennessee.
If you haze students near Morgan County, we will find you. We will sue you. And we will shut you down.
Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi, Sigma Chi, Kappa Sigma — if your chapter operates near Morgan County, know this:
- We track your house corporations.
- We track your alumni chapters.
- We track your national insurance structures.
- We know your documented history of hazing deaths and injuries.
- If your Tennessee chapter harms a student, we will pursue every liable entity.
The Beta Nu chapter at University of Houston learned this the hard way. Your chapter could be next.
🎓 A Message to Tennessee Universities Near Morgan County
To the universities near Morgan County, Tennessee: The same institutional negligence that made University of Houston a defendant exists at your campus.
You have a legal and moral duty to protect your students. When you fail, the consequences are devastating:
- Students hospitalized with kidney failure.
- Students dying from alcohol poisoning.
- Families shattered by preventable tragedies.
You have the power to stop hazing. You choose not to.
University of Tennessee, Tennessee Tech, MTSU, ETSU, Bryan College, Lee University — if hazing occurs at your institution:
- We will sue you for premises liability.
- We will sue you for negligent supervision.
- We will sue you for failing to act despite prior knowledge.
- We will hold you accountable in court — and in the court of public opinion.
The University of Houston owned the house where a student was waterboarded. They collected rent while students were tortured. They had the power to stop it — and they didn’t.
Is that the legacy you want for your university?
🏆 Our Commitment to Morgan County Families
At Attorney 911, we don’t just talk about fighting hazing — we’re doing it right now. We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know how to build these cases. We know how to win. And we know how to bring justice to Morgan County families.
When you hire Attorney 911, here’s what you get:
- Immediate action: We preserve evidence, identify liable parties, and build your case from day one.
- Aggressive representation: We don’t back down from powerful institutions. We fight for maximum compensation.
- Nationwide reach: We serve hazing victims across America — including in Morgan County, Tennessee.
- Compassionate guidance: We understand the trauma of hazing. We treat Morgan County families with respect and care.
- Contingency fee basis: You pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
- 24/7 availability: Hazing emergencies don’t wait. Neither do we. Call us anytime.
Morgan County parents: Your child’s safety and future are too important to trust to just any attorney. Choose the firm that’s fighting — and winning — hazing cases right now.
📞 Call Now for a Free Consultation: 1-888-ATTY-911
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com
We serve Morgan County, Tennessee, and all of Tennessee. Distance is not a barrier to justice.
If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Morgan County, call us now. We will fight for you — and we will win.
