If you’re reading this, your family in Newton County may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college, to explore new academic horizons, and to build a foundation for their future. Instead, they were tortured. They were abused. And now, they are suffering. We understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help families in Newton County fight back.

We know that when tragedy strikes, especially something as deeply personal and violating as hazing, the thought of navigating a complex legal system can feel overwhelming. You’re scared. You’re angry. And you’re searching for answers at 2 AM, wondering how to protect your child and seek justice. We want you to know that you are not alone, and expert help is within reach.

At Attorney911, we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™, and we move first, fast, and decisively when a legal emergency hits. For Newton County families whose children have been victimized by hazing, this means immediate, aggressive, and professional legal intervention. We are actively fighting this battle right now, and we will bring the same relentless pursuit of justice to your Newton County family.

The Case That Haunts Us All: What Happened in Houston Could Happen to Your Child in Newton County

What happened to Leonel Bermudez in Houston is a stark, terrifying warning for every parent in Newton County. This isn’t a story from decades ago, or a fictional tale. This is a current, ongoing fight, and we at Attorney911 are at the very forefront, representing Leonel Bermudez against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and a host of individuals involved. This case, filed in November 2025, is a $10 million lawsuit that showcases exactly what kind of firm we are: aggressive, thorough, data-driven, and relentless in pursuing accountability for hazing victims.

The Facts of the Bermudez Case: A Warning for Newton County

Leonel Bermudez was a young man with dreams, a prospective transfer student to the University of Houston, eagerly anticipating his college journey. He accepted a bid to join the Beta Nu chapter of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on September 16, 2025. What was supposed to be an exciting new chapter turned into weeks of systematic abuse, psychological torture, and physical torment.

What they did to Leonel Bermudez:

• Waterboarding with a garden hose: He was sprayed in the face with a hose while doing calisthenics, a dehumanizing act that simulates drowning. This is torture, a violation of human rights when done to enemy combatants, and it was inflicted upon a young man trying to find brotherhood.
• Hog-tied and humiliated: Lawsuit details another pledge being hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. This wasn’t an isolated incident; it speaks to the culture of degradation. Leonel himself was forced to carry a fanny pack with objects of a sexual nature at all times, a form of public humiliation.
• Forced eating until vomiting: He was made to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. Then, in a horrific display of control, he was forced to continue running sprints, often lying in his own vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme physical punishment: He endured endless rounds of over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (running drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was forced to recite the fraternity creed during these grueling exercises, further intertwining pain with forced loyalty. They subjected him to these drills until his muscles literally broke down.
• Medical Catastrophe: This brutal regimen led to severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. Leonel’s mother rushed him to the hospital when he began passing brown urine, a classic sign of muscle breakdown. He spent four agonizing days in the hospital, fighting for his life, with permanent kidney damage remaining a serious ongoing risk.

This happened to someone who wasn’t even enrolled at the University of Houston yet. He was a “ghost rush,” planning to transfer. They did this to a prospective student, before he even officially became part of their university community. The sheer recklessness and disregard for human life and dignity are staggering.

Within weeks of Leonel’s hospitalization, the Pi Kappa Phi chapter was suspended. Its members voted to surrender their charter, and the chapter was permanently closed. Criminal referrals were initiated. But this isn’t enough. We believe in total accountability.

The $10 Million Lawsuit: Our firm filed a $10 million lawsuit naming the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, the national Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, its housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity members, including the president, pledgemaster, risk manager, and others who actively participated or enabled the abuse. This case, currently active in Harris County Civil District Court, is a testament to our commitment to justice.

You can read more about this harrowing case in the news:

• ABC13 (KTRK): “Abuse and hazing led to hospitalization of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge, lawsuit alleges” (https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/)
• KHOU 11: “$10 million lawsuit filed against UH, fraternity over hazing allegations” (https://www.khou.com/article/news/local/university-of-houston-hazing-lawsuit-uh-pi-kappa-phi/285-8d6916f4-23b9-456a-a484-77c916ceac71)
• Hoodline: “University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Face $10M Lawsuit Over Alleged Hazing and Abuse” (https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/)

Why This Case Matters to Newton County Families

This could be your child. The same national fraternities operating at the University of Houston have chapters at universities across the country, including institutions where students from Newton County attend college. The “traditions” that hospitalized Leonel Bermudez are not unique to one chapter; they are often deeply ingrained in the culture of Greek life nationwide.

Universities are often complicit through their inaction, and the same negligence seen at the University of Houston can be found at other institutions. If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority at a university near Newton County, or even one across the country, they face the exact same hazing risks. We will fight for Newton County families just like we are fighting for Leonel Bermudez.

As our very own Lupe Peña stated to ABC13, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” We believe that one brave victim can protect countless others, and your Newton County case could save lives.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

If you’re reading this, you probably have a vague idea of what hazing is. Maybe some silly pranks, some forced chores, or a little mild embarrassment. We are here to tell you that today’s hazing is far more sinister, far more dangerous, and tragically, far more common than most parents in Newton County realize. It’s not “boys being boys.” It’s not a harmless “tradition.” It is torture, plain and simple.

The incidents Leonel Bermudez endured are not isolated. They represent the dark reality of hazing across America, a reality that impacts students from communities like Newton County every year.

The Grim Reality of Modern Hazing Incidents

Based on documented cases, including Leonel Bermudez’s terrifying experience, hazing routinely involves:

• Extreme Physical Abuse: This is not just a push-up or two. This includes beatings, paddling, branding, burning, and forced exercise to the point of collapse or injury. Leonel’s 500 squats and 100 pushups were just the beginning of a grueling regimen that pushed his body to its breaking point.
• Forced Consumption: This often involves binge drinking, chugging dangerous amounts of alcohol, or eating until vomiting. In Leonel’s case, it was milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns, followed by being forced to exercise in his own vomit. This is a common tactic that can lead to alcohol poisoning, choking, and severe gastrointestinal distress.
• Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often intentionally deprived of sleep through late-night activities and forced early mornings, leading to exhaustion, impaired judgment, and increased vulnerability. Leonel was forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, contributing to his exhaustion.
• Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Hazing aims to break individuals down psychologically, instilling fear, loyalty, and obedience. This involves verbal abuse, isolation, threats, and degrading acts. The fanny pack incident and the hog-tying of another pledge highlight the level of depravity. Victims often fear retribution, just as Leonel Bermudez does, a fear that itself becomes a form of psychological torment.
• Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: As Leonel’s case tragically demonstrates, simulated drowning is a horrific form of abuse. It’s a method of torture that causes intense fear, panic, and a feeling of impending death.
• Exposure: Forcing pledges into harsh weather conditions, confined spaces, or leaving them stranded are also forms of hazing that can lead to hypothermia, hyperthermia, and other serious health issues.
• Sexual Abuse or Exploitation: This can include forced nudity, sexually suggestive acts, or actual sexual assault. The use of sexual objects, as in Leonel’s case, is a deeply disturbing component many victims endure.
• Servitude: Pledges are often treated as personal servants, forced to clean, run errands, and chauffeur active members, stripping away their dignity and time.

The Devastating Medical Consequences

The injuries from hazing are far from minor pranks. They can be life-altering, and tragically, often fatal. Leonel Bermudez suffered:

• Rhabdomyolysis: A severe condition where damaged muscle tissue releases harmful proteins into the bloodstream. Our firm has significant experience litigating cases involving rhabdomyolysis.
• Acute Kidney Failure: A direct, life-threatening consequence of rhabdomyolysis, requiring intensive medical care, as Leonel received during his four days in the hospital. The long-term risk of permanent kidney damage is a grim reality.

Other profound medical consequences seen in hazing incidents include:

• Alcohol Poisoning: The leading cause of hazing deaths, often from forced binge drinking.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From beatings, falls, or forced activities that lead to head trauma.
• Hypothermia/Hyperthermia: From exposure to extreme cold or heat.
• Cardiac Arrest: From extreme physical exertion, especially in individuals with undiagnosed heart conditions.
• Infections: From wounds, burns, or unsanitary conditions.
• PTSD, Anxiety, Depression: The psychological scars often last long after physical wounds heal, requiring extensive therapy and support.
• Death: The ultimate, heartbreaking consequence that far too many families, from Newton County and beyond, have endured.

This isn’t about scaring parents in Newton County; it’s about informing them. When your child leaves for college, whether it’s the University of Georgia, Emory University, or any other institution, they deserve to be safe. We are here to ensure that if that trust is broken, those responsible are held fully accountable.

Who Is Truly Responsible: Suing Everyone Who Enabled the Abuse

When a child from Newton County is hazed, it’s rarely just one person or one organization to blame. The culture of hazing is often deeply entrenched, with multiple layers of responsibility, stretching from individual perpetrators to powerful national organizations and universities. At Attorney911, we investigate every angle and sue every entity responsible to ensure our clients receive the maximum compensation they deserve.

Our lawsuit in the Bermudez case exemplifies this comprehensive approach. We don’t just target the students who directly inflicted the harm; we demand accountability from every adult and every institution that either participated, coordinated, supervised, or turned a blind eye.

Understanding the Layers of Legal Responsibility

1. The Local Fraternity/Sorority Chapter:

   • Direct Perpetrators: The chapter leadership, including the president and pledgemaster (as named in our lawsuit), who organize and direct hazing activities, and individual members who actively participate.
   • Vicarious Liability: The chapter itself can be held accountable for the actions of its members, especially when hazing is integral to its “traditions.”
   • Negligent Supervision: The chapter failed to prevent, monitor, or stop potentially harmful activities.

2. The National Fraternity/Sorority Organization:

   • Deep Pockets, Ultimate Control: These are multi-million dollar corporations with vast assets and substantial liability insurance. They hold the ultimate authority over their local chapters, including chartering, disciplining, and setting national policies.
   • Failure to Supervise: The national organization has a duty to ensure its chapters comply with anti-hazing policies and state laws. When they fail, as Pi Kappa Phi National did despite a documented history of hazing deaths (like Andrew Coffey’s in 2017), they are directly liable. KHOU 11 reported allegations that the national organization failed to enforce anti-hazing policies despite knowing about a “hazing crisis.”
   • Their Own Actions Speak Loudly: Pi Kappa Phi’s national leadership immediately suspended and dissolved the UH chapter after Leonel’s hospitalization. This action, taken just seven days before our lawsuit was filed, is a clear admission that they knew the local chapter’s conduct was wrong and that they have the power to intervene.

3. The University or College:

   • Institutional Negligence: Universities have a non-delegable duty to protect their students and ensure a safe campus environment. This includes regulating Greek life, enforcing anti-hazing policies, and responding to reports of misconduct.
   • Premises Liability: In Leonel’s case, the University of Houston owned the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place. This is a critical point. When a university owns or controls the property where hazing occurs, they assume a legal responsibility for ensuring its safety. They cannot claim ignorance when torture happens on their own property.
   • Prior Knowledge: The University of Houston had a prior incident in 2017 where a student was hospitalized from hazing in a different fraternity. This establishes that the university had direct knowledge of hazing on its campus and failed to adequately prevent a recurrence. As an Attorney911 spokesperson noted, the UH spokesperson’s statement acknowledged the events were “deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards,” further solidifying institutional awareness.
   • Failure to Act: Despite having the power to regulate, suspend, or remove organizations, and prior knowledge of hazing, the university failed to protect Leonel Bermudez.

4. Individual Members and Alumni:

   • Each person who actively planned, participated in, or facilitated the hazing can be held personally liable for assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
   • In the Bermudez case, former members who hosted hazing activities at their private residence, and even a spouse who allowed it, are named as defendants. This expands the net of accountability to property owners who enable hazing. Individual liability is real, as proven in the Stone Foltz case where a former chapter president was personally hit with a $6.5 million judgment.

5. Insurance Carriers:

   • Behind every national organization, university, and even many individual defendants, there are insurance policies. These are the “deep pockets” that often fund multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts.
   • As former insurance defense attorneys, both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña know exactly how to navigate these complex policies, identify all layers of coverage, and maximize recovery. We know their playbook because we helped write it.

Your Child in Newton County Deserves This Level of Accountability

The colleges and universities where students from Newton County enroll often have vibrant Greek life scenes, from large state schools like the University of Georgia, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Emory University, to smaller institutions such as Georgia College & State University or Augusta University. These campuses, like UH, can become breeding grounds for hazing if not properly supervised. The national fraternities and sororities with chapters near Newton County, or to which Newton County students travel, are the same powerful entities we are currently fighting.

When hazing leaves a child from Newton County injured, traumatized, or worse, we will cast the widest net possible. We will identify every individual, every local chapter, every national organization, every housing corporation, and every university that bears responsibility, and we will hold them all accountable. This isn’t just about financial compensation; it’s about forcing systemic change and ensuring that no other Newton County family endures this pain.

They Will Pay: Multi-Million Dollar Precedents for Hazing Victims

Newton County families seeking justice after hazing need to understand one critical fact: these cases win, and they win big. The demand for $10 million in the Bermudez case is not arbitrary; it is rooted in a clear pattern of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements that have reshaped the landscape of hazing litigation across the country. We have the receipts, and these precedents send a powerful message to fraternities, universities, and national organizations: hazing costs millions.

These landmark cases prove that when institutions fail to protect students, they are held accountable through significant financial penalties. The same legal strategies, the same commitment to justice, and the same aggressive representation that led to these outcomes are precisely what we bring to every Newton County hazing case we take.

Landmark Verdicts & Settlements: The Cost of Hazing

1. Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021-2024)

   • Total Recovery: Over $10.1 Million. This includes a $2.9 million settlement from Bowling Green State University and a $7.2 million settlement from Pi Kappa Alpha National Fraternity and its members. Most recently, in December 2024, a former chapter president was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million in a judgment for his role in the hazing.
   • What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha initiation event.
   • Significance: This case explicitly demonstrates that universities and national fraternities face multi-million dollar liabilities, and individual chapter officers can be held personally responsible for millions. Our $10 million claim for Leonel Bermudez is directly aligned with this precedent, especially given the similarly egregious conduct. This was the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio’s history.

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

   • Verdict: $6.1 Million. A jury directly awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million in a wrongful death lawsuit.
   • What Happened: In September 2017, Max Gruver died from acute alcohol poisoning (with a BAC of 0.495, over six times the legal limit) after being forced to participate in a hazing ritual called “Bible Study” where pledges were made to drink excessive amounts of alcohol for incorrect answers.
   • Significance: This jury verdict sent an unmistakable message: juries are outraged by hazing and will award millions. The case also spurred the creation of the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana, showing how civil action can lead to legislative change.

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

   • Total Recovery: Estimated $110+ Million. While the exact settlement amounts are confidential, reports indicate settlements exceeding $110 million.
   • What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza sustained catastrophic injuries, including a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding, after being forced to consume 18 alcoholic drinks in 82 minutes during a “gauntlet” hazing ritual. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911, and the entire horrific ordeal was captured on security cameras. He died two days later.
   • Significance: This represents one of the largest hazing recoveries ever, proving that when the evidence is strong and the misconduct is egregious, institutions face staggering financial consequences. This case also led to the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law in Pennsylvania.

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

   • Outcome: Multiple criminal charges and convictions, an undisclosed civil settlement, and the permanent closure of the chapter.
   • What Happened: In November 2017, Andrew Coffey died from alcohol poisoning after a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” event where he was forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon.
   • Significance: This case is particularly crucial because it involves the same national fraternity, Pi Kappa Phi, that we are currently suing in the Bermudez case. Andrew Coffey’s death eight years prior to Leonel Bermudez’s hospitalization tragically proves that Pi Kappa Phi National knew about deadly hazing within its chapters and failed to implement effective preventative measures. For us, this establishes a clear pattern of negligence and supports demands for substantial punitive damages.

5. Adam Oakes – Virginia Commonwealth University / Delta Chi (2021)

   • Settlement: Over $4 Million. The family of Adam Oakes recently reached a settlement totaling over $4 million, including a substantial cash settlement and a donation to their anti-hazing foundation.
   • What Happened: In February 2021, Adam Oakes died from alcohol poisoning after a Delta Chi hazing event where he was forced to consume a large bottle of whiskey.
   • Significance: This confirms that settlements continue to be significant and often include components for both direct compensation and a legacy of change, like the “Love Like Adam” Foundation, which inspired “Adam’s Law” in Virginia.

The Message to Newton County Institutions: Hazing is Costly

The list of universities and Greek organizations being forced to pay millions for hazing-related injuries and deaths is long and growing. Whether it’s the University of Georgia, Kennesaw State University, Georgia Southern University, or any other institution that draws students from Newton County, the precedent is clear: you are on notice. The national fraternities and sororities with chapters near Newton County, such as Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, or Pi Kappa Phi, are now fully aware of the financial ramifications of their members’ actions.

These multi-million dollar outcomes serve as a powerful deterrent and a beacon of hope for Newton County families. They demonstrate that justice can be achieved, that negligent institutions can be held accountable, and that compensation can be secured for the immense suffering and loss caused by hazing. Our ongoing $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez proves that we are not theoretical; we are actively fighting to expand this legacy of accountability right now.

Your Legal Shield: How Texas Law Protects Newton County Victims

For families in Newton County grappling with the aftermath of hazing, understanding the legal framework is crucial. While our firm is licensed in Texas and New York, our federal court authority often allows us to pursue cases regardless of where the hazing occurred in the United States. Furthermore, many states, including Georgia, have anti-hazing laws that mirror the robust protections found in Texas law.

One of the most powerful aspects of Texas anti-hazing law, and one that resonates nationwide, is the explicit rejection of the “consent” defense. This means that if a fraternity tries to argue, “he agreed to participate,” or “he knew the risks,” the law stands firmly with the victim.

Texas Hazing Laws: A Model for Accountability

The Texas Education Code (§ 37.151-37.157) provides a clear legal foundation for prosecuting hazing and holding offenders accountable.

1. Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151):
Texas law broadly defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, that endangers a student’s mental or physical health for the purpose of joining or maintaining membership in an organization. This includes:

• Physical brutality: Whipping, beating, striking, branding, etc. (Leonel was struck with wooden paddles).
• Atypical physical activity: Sleep deprivation, exposure, confinement, calisthenics, or other activities risking harm or affecting health. (Leonel’s forced 500 squats, waterboarding, and sleep deprivation fit this perfectly).
• Forced consumption: Of food, liquid, alcoholic beverages, drugs, or other substances that risk harm. (Leonel’s forced eating until vomiting is a clear violation).
• Activities violating the Penal Code: Any act that also constitutes a crime. (Assault, battery, and even simulated torture are crimes).

The alleged actions against Leonel Bermudez fit multiple categories of this definition, making his case a textbook example of illegal hazing under Texas law.

2. Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152):
Hazing is not just a university violation; it’s a crime.

• Engaging in or assisting hazing can be a Class B Misdemeanor.
• Hazing causing serious bodily injury (like Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure) escalates to a Class A Misdemeanor, carrying up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
• Hazing causing death (like Andrew Coffey’s case) is a State Jail Felony, with up to two years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.

The University of Houston spokesperson even acknowledged “potential criminal charges” in Leonel’s case, highlighting the likelihood of parallel civil and criminal proceedings.

3. Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
The law explicitly states that an organization commits an offense if it “condones or encourages hazing” or if its officers, members, pledges, or alumni commit hazing. This means the local chapter, the national organization, and even individual members and alumni can face penalties, including fines up to $10,000, denial of campus operation, and forfeiture of property.

4. The Powerful “Consent Is Not a Defense” Clause (§ 37.154):
This is perhaps the most critical legal protection for hazing victims. The law states: “It is not a defense to prosecution for an offense under this subchapter that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

This provision directly counters the common defense tactic by fraternities: claiming the victim “voluntarily participated” or “knew what they were getting into.” Texas law unequivocally rejects this argument. Regardless of what a student might say or do under immense peer pressure, intimidation, or the desire to belong, their “consent” does not excuse criminal or negligent hazing behavior. The same principle often applies in many other states as well.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Prosecution

Even if criminal charges are not pursued or result in a conviction, Newton County families can (and should) pursue civil lawsuits to recover damages. Here are some of the key civil claims:

• Negligence: This is the bedrock of most personal injury claims. We would argue that the university, national fraternity, and local chapter owed a duty of care to the student, breached that duty by allowing or causing hazing, and this breach directly led to the student’s injuries and damages.
• Premises Liability: When hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university (like the UH fraternity house), or an individual (like the former member’s residence), they can be held liable for failing to provide a safe environment.
• Negligent Supervision: This applies broadly to universities that fail to adequately oversee Greek life, and national fraternities that fail to supervise their local chapters.
• Assault and Battery: Individual perpetrators can be sued for intentional harmful or offensive contact (e.g., paddling, waterboarding).
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): Reserved for truly extreme and outrageous conduct (like torture), IIED claims seek compensation for severe emotional suffering, such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
• Vicarious Liability: National organizations can be held responsible for the actions of their members and chapters, especially when they exercise control and oversight.

For Newton County families, this intricate web of laws ensures that hazing victims have multiple avenues to pursue justice and hold all responsible parties accountable. We are experts in navigating these complexities and will leverage every applicable law to fight for your child’s rights.

Why Attorney911? The Aggressive Edge for Newton County Families

When your child from Newton County is a victim of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a legal commando team that understands the nuanced battlefield of hazing litigation. You need aggressive, experienced, and deeply committed advocates who know how to outwork, outsmart, and outfight the powerful institutions that enabled the tragedy. You need Attorney911.

We are not a general personal injury firm that occasionally dabbles in hazing cases. Hazing litigation is a core focus for us, epitomized by our current $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical; this is real, live legal emergency response in action.

Here’s why families in Newton County choose Attorney911:

1. 25+ Years of Courtroom Battle-Tested Experience: Ralph P. Manginello, our managing partner, brings over two decades of intense courtroom experience. He has a proven track record of handling complex, high-stakes litigation, including his involvement in the multi-billion dollar BP Texas City Explosion mass tort litigation. That level of experience against massive corporate defendants is precisely what’s needed to take on national fraternities and major universities. Ralph is a true “pitt bull and fighter” (as one client put it), known for his aggressive and tenacious approach. You can learn more about Ralph’s background at his bio page: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/

2. Former Insurance Defense Insiders: We Know Their Playbook: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Eleno Peña (who is male, despite the common misperception of his name, as confirmed by our internal guidelines) are former insurance defense attorneys. This is our “unfair advantage.” Lupe Peña, in particular, worked for Litchfield Cavo LLP, a nationwide insurance defense firm. He spent years on the other side, learning how insurance companies value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to deconstruct their defenses and maximize recovery for our hazing victims. As one of our reviews says, “This place feels like having a family over your case.” Rest assured, our Newton County clients get the full benefit of this insight. You can learn more about Lupe’s strategic background at his bio page: https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/

3. Federal Court Authority & Dual-State Bar Membership: We are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us federal litigation authority. Ralph is also licensed in both Texas and New York. This dual-state and federal court admission provides a strategic advantage for hazing cases, especially when dealing with national fraternities headquartered in other states or cases that cross state lines. We can pursue justice for Newton County victims no matter where the hazing occurred.

4. Specialized Hazing Litigation Expertise: We’re not just general personal injury lawyers; we have specific experience with fraternity litigation, rhabdomyolysis cases (like Leonel’s), and holding universities accountable. Our ongoing $10 million lawsuit isn’t just a case; it’s a testament to our specialized expertise and active engagement in this fight.

5. A Deep Understanding of Greek Life Culture: Ralph Manginello, a Hall of Fame athlete and youth coach, understands team dynamics, locker room environments, and the pressures that often lead to hazing abuse. This insight allows us to dissect hazing culture with an informed perspective, recognizing not just the acts but the insidious traditions and power structures that enable them.

6. “Se Habla Español”: Eliminating Language Barriers: For the diverse families in Newton County, particularly our Hispanic community, Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish. This ensures clear communication, cultural understanding, and comprehensive legal services for Spanish-speaking clients, making sure no family is denied justice due to language barriers.

7. Client-Focused Communication and Empathy: We pride ourselves on treating our Newton County clients like family. Our client testimonials consistently highlight our commitment to communication, responsiveness, and genuine care. “You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such,” reads one review. We understand the emotional toll hazing takes and are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process with compassion and transparency. Our team ensures consistent communication; as one client noted, “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer regarding my case.”

8. Contingency Fee Basis: No Upfront Cost for Newton County Families: We understand that pursuing justice against powerful institutions can seem financially daunting. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency basis. This means you pay $0 upfront, and we only get paid if and when we win your case. This removes financial barriers, allowing every Newton County family to access aggressive, top-tier legal representation, regardless of their current financial situation. You can learn more about how contingency fees work here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

9. Willingness to Travel: While our offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, distance is not a barrier to justice. We are prepared to travel to Newton County for depositions, client meetings, and trials when necessary. We also offer convenient video consultations, ensuring Newton County families can easily connect with our attorneys wherever they are.

By choosing Attorney911, Newton County families gain not just legal representation, but a team with a demonstrated passion for justice, an unparalleled understanding of the opposition, and a proven ability to achieve significant results in emotionally charged, high-stakes hazing cases. We don’t just talk about hazing; we’re in the trenches fighting it right now.

What to Do Right Now: Empowering Newton County Families in a Legal Emergency

If your child in Newton County has been a victim of hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. What you do – and what you don’t do – can significantly impact their well-being and the strength of any future legal claim. We understand you’re likely feeling overwhelmed, scared, and angry. Our goal is to empower you with clear, actionable steps that you can take right now, to protect your child and preserve your legal rights.

This is your legal emergency. We are your first responders.

Immediate Actions: Prioritize Safety and Documentation

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: This is paramount, even if injuries seem minor or the incident occurred days ago. Some hazing injuries, like rhabdomyolysis or internal organ damage, may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.

   • Go to the ER or a doctor: Document everything with medical professionals. Tell them how the injuries occurred.
   • Preserve Records: Get copies of all hospital records, doctor’s notes, lab results, and any therapy records. These will be crucial evidence.
   • Why this matters: Delaying medical treatment allows the defense to argue that injuries weren’t severe or weren’t caused by the hazing. Your health, and your case, depend on prompt medical care.

2. Preserve ALL Evidence – EVERYTHING Is Important: This is perhaps the most crucial step. Hazing organizations are notorious for destroying evidence once an incident is reported.

   • Photos and Videos: Take pictures of all injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, skin discoloration) as they heal. If there are any photos or videos of the hazing itself, save them immediately.
   • Communications: This includes text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, emails, any written communication related to the hazing. DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING. Screenshots are vital. Our firm often relies on digital forensic experts to recover deleted data, but preservation is always best. You can learn more about documenting evidence here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs
   • Witness Information: Get names and contact details of other pledges, active members who may feel remorse, or any bystanders who witnessed the hazing.
   • Physical Items: Keep any clothing worn during the hazing, any “pledge books,” or other items given to your child.
   • Schedules & Manuals: Any pledge schedules, rulebooks, or “tradition” documents are invaluable.

3. DO NOT Communicate with the Fraternity/Sorority or University Administratiion Without Legal Counsel:

   • Silence is Golden: Do not speak to fraternity/sorority leaders, national organization representatives, or university officials, including Title IX offices, investigators, or risk management departments, without first consulting with an attorney.
   • Recorded Statements: If asked to give a statement, especially a recorded one, politely decline and state that you need to speak with your lawyer first. These statements are often used to twist your words or trap you into admissions that can harm your case. You can learn more about common mistakes to avoid here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY
   • Signing Documents: Never sign anything given to you by the organization or university without having your attorney review it first. You could inadvertently waive your rights.

4. DO NOT Post About the Incident on Social Media:

   • No Public Statements: Anything you or your child post on social media could be used against your case by shrewd defense attorneys. This includes posts about the incident, discussions with friends, or even photos that portray your child as “fine” or enjoying themselves, which could minimize the perceived severity of the hazing.

5. Contact an Attorney IMMEDIATELY:

   • Time is Critical: There are strict deadlines (statutes of limitations) for filing lawsuits. In many states, including Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury is generally two years from the date of injury. However, gathering evidence and building a strong case takes time. Delaying can mean vital evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, or your legal rights expire completely. Learn more about statutes of limitations here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
   • Free Consultation: We offer a free, confidential consultation to Newton County families. There’s no obligation, just an opportunity to understand your legal options.
   • We Handle Everything: Once you hire us, we handle all communications with the opposing parties, gather evidence, consult with experts, and build a comprehensive legal strategy, allowing your family to focus on healing.

This incident is not your fault, and you do not have to fight this battle alone. The institutions responsible will have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests. You need your own powerful advocates to level the playing field.

Newton County Families: Call Us Now. We Fight. We Win.

If your child in Newton County has been tragically harmed by hazing, you are likely feeling a profound sense of betrayal, anger, and helplessness. We want you to know that you are not powerless. You have legal rights, and we are ready to fight for them. Attorney911 is actively representing hazing victims against powerful institutions, showing the world that hazing has devastating consequences for the perpetrators. We are here to bring that same aggressive, unwavering commitment to justice to your Newton County family.

Our $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is not just a filing; it’s a declaration. It proves that we know how to build these complex cases, how to dismantle institutional defenses, and how to hold every responsible party—from individual students to national organizations and universities—fully accountable. When you choose Attorney911, you choose a firm that is actively leading this fight, not just observing it.

Your Immediate Call to Action:

🚨 Newton County Families: Have You or Your Child Been Hazed? Call Our Legal Emergency Hotline Now.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

• Available 24/7: We are here for you whenever you need us, day or night.
• Email Us: If you prefer, email us directly at ralph@atty911.com.
• Free Consultation: Your initial consultation is completely free and confidential. There’s no obligation, just an opportunity to discuss your situation and understand your legal options.
• Contingency Fee Basis: We take hazing cases on contingency. This means you pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if and when we win your case. This commitment ensures that financial concerns never stand between your family and the justice you deserve.

Distance is Not a Barrier to Justice for Newton County Victims

While our offices are based in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, our reach and capability extend nationwide. Hazing is a national crisis, affecting students in Newton County and beyond, whether they attend universities in Georgia or state schools across the country. We are fully equipped to represent your family, leveraging:

• Federal Court Authority: Our admission to U.S. District Courts allows us to pursue cases in federal jurisdiction, which can be essential when dealing with national organizations.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello holds licenses in both Texas and New York, providing additional strategic advantages when navigating multi-state litigation.
• Video Consultations: We offer convenient and secure video consultations so that Newton County families can meet with our attorneys from the comfort of their homes, without needing to travel.
• Commitment to Travel: When necessary for depositions, critical meetings, or trials, our attorneys will travel to Newton County to ensure your case receives the on-the-ground attention it deserves.

We represent victims of hazing in all forms, not just fraternities and sororities:

• Fraternities and sororities at universities and colleges, including those in or near Newton County.
• Sports teams at all levels of education in Newton County.
• Marching bands, ROTC programs, clubs, and organizations at Newton County schools and across the nation.
• Any organization that uses abuse disguised as “initiation.”

To Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing Incident:

We know Leonel Bermudez was not the only one. We know that another pledge collapsed and lost consciousness. We know others were forced to endure waterboarding, forced eating, and severe physical abuse. If you were a victim of Pi Kappa Phi hazing, or witnessed it, you have rights. Your decision to come forward could be instrumental in holding all responsible parties accountable and preventing future tragedies.

As Lupe Peña expressed, “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 us. Let’s stand together and bring them all to justice.

Your search brought you here because you’re looking for help and answers. We are your answer. Contact Attorney911 today, and let us begin the fight for your Newton County family. Visit our website at attorney911.com for more information.