I Ha’åne Manatitipunik i Peligro: Sa’ Håfa Debidiña i Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands Un Agresibu na Abugådu Fina’måmaña

Yanggen un taitai este, posible na i familian-mu ha na’fa’på’pak unu gi kakahulo’ na momento gi lina’lå’-mu. Manmalågo i patgon-mu para un kolehu, bula un sueño, manhånao para u fanmaigo’ na amigu siha yan u fanaligao i lugåt-ñiha. Lao, ma na’mamposi, ma na’mamå’lao, yan posible na ma na’huyong i lina’lå’-ñiha. Este ti i kustombre gi kolehu ni’ ha såsåkkan, yan para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands, i sentimentu yan i fisikat na inafa’ñålang ginen i fina’måmaña gi kolehu sina magufi, espesiåtmente yanggen åpmam i distånsia gi entre hamyu yan i patgon-mu. In komprende hafa un såsa’on. Mana’fåtinas i patgon-mu na amigu gi kolehu. Lao, ma na’mamposi. Iguguaha ham para u in ayuda i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands para u fanå’ñå.

Ginen i Attorney911, yan i gipot-måmi matulaika gi prinsipu na agresibu na representasion para i manpobri gi mas grave na emerhensiana ligåt-ñiha. Para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands ni’ i famagu’on-ñiha ma na’pobri ginen i fina’måmaña, in representa este na emerhensiana respondi. I fina’måmaña un malångu yan peligroso na problema ni’ ha na’mafa’nana’ i kampus-siha gi kolehu gi Enteru America, yan sina ha na’på’pak i estudiante-siha ginen i Northern Mariana Islands ni’ manåttpresena i unibetsidåt-siha månu-siha gi i nasion. I “tradision-siha” ni’ kaseseha mana’lå’la’ ni’ guiyå-n tåno’, sororidåt-siha, gima’yu’us-siha, yan otru na organizasion-siha ni’ kåsi ha tråta i linia para i sitematiku na inafa’ñålang, ma na’såfyiña grave na fisikal yan saikologiku na inafa’ñålang, yan ålagunas minalångu.

Ti in tungo’ este ginen i teori, lao ginen i aktibu, yan mumumåna’ na litiga. Gi pa’go, i abugådu-siha, si Ralph Manginello yan si Lupe Peña, manma’gåfmana’ gi un $10 mit na pleitu contra i Pi Kappa Phi, i Unibetsidåt gi Houston, yan 13 na indibiduåt na miembron i gima’yu’us para i brutal na fina’måmaña gi kliyente-måmi, si Leonel Bermudez. Este na kåsu, ma fåyå gi Nobembre 2025, un mångnge’ na manalo’ na i fina’måmaña ti un relikiu gi i anå’o; un peligro gi pa’go ni’ sina ha na’såfyiña manu na familia, inkluyendu i manma’ånñao i famagu’on-ñiha ginen i taihuyong na tatalo’ gi Northern Mariana Islands para i åpmam na unibetsidåt-siha.

Este na kumprehensibu na giya ma desana para u na’fånnuma i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands i sinana ni’ manesesita. In explica håfa i fina’måmaña ha na’på’pak i estudiante-siha, hafa i lai ha sangan, håyi sina ma na’såfyiña, yan sa’ håfa i gipot-måmi mayuyaki para u na’segura i hustisiå para i patgon-mu. I åpmam na entre i Northern Mariana Islands yan i headquarters-måmi gi Houston ti un barrera para i agresibu na ligåt na aksion. In chachalani i kabales na rekursu-måmi, i federal na aturidå gi kåt, yan un ti manapårå na dinagiå gi akontabilidåt direchu gi kåso-mu, ma na’segura na i bos-ñiha i patgon-mu ma ekungok yan i manresponsable ma na’på’gü.

I Pesadillas gi Familia gi Northern Mariana Islands: Fina’måmaña gi America

I manåtno’ na isla-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands ha na’gåfmana’ un unikona kulturåt na erensia yan un fino’ na komunidåt. Yanggen i famagu’on ginen este na komunidåt manmamotma gi kustombre gi kolehu, ya mågi para i mainland U.S. o otru na institusion-siha gi rehion, i familiå-siha manå’nña i maligao un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åtmåsfera ni’ seguru, manå’nña un åatmåsfera para u fanmå’hå.
Este na tradision. Lao, i estadistika-siha manpå’pak. I hazing un nasionåt na krisis ni’ ha na’trånsende i geografiku na linderu yan i klasin i unibetsidåt-siha.

• Mas ki i taklo’ gi estudiante-siha (55%) ni’ maninvolu gi organizasion-siha gi griegu mananombra na ma sagi i hazing.
• Mas ki 40% gi estudiante-siha na atletås lokkue’ mananombra na ma sagi i hazing.
• Gof malångu, ginen i sakkan 2000, kada un åñu guaha unu na minalångu ginen i hazing gi Estados Unidos. Este ti manåstå’isi na incidente-siha; ma representa un sistemiku na såfyi gi ånmå yan un kulturåña na peligroso na “tradision-siha.”
• Gof trahik, 95% gi estudiante-siha ni’ ma sagi i hazing ti ma ripotta, despues ginen i tinå’o gi retalia, såmå, o un ti ma tungo’ na sense’ gi leåltå. Este na silencio ha na’åtmana i sigon gi inafa’ñålang, ma na’på’pak mas estudiante-siha gi peligro.

Para i saina-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands, i hinasso gi i patgon-ñiha, åpmam ginen i gima’, manå’dira este na inafa’ñålang un ti manhinasso. Lao i minagahet, i mismu na nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha yan sororidåt-siha ni’ manåktibu gi unibetsidåt-siha gi Enteru America, inkluyendu ayu-siha ni’ i estudiante-siha ginen i Northern Mariana Islands despues manmamotma, i mismu na organizasion-siha ni’ guaha i historia-ñiha gi grave na incidente-siha gi hazing, inafa’ñålang, yan ålagunas minalångu. I åpmam lao ha na’på’pak i sentimentu gi ti manå’dåyi, lao ti ha na’disminui i derechu-mu i patgon-mu o i abilidad-måmi para u in fana’ñålang i patgon-mu.

I problema ti gaige gi indibiduåt na taotao-siha, lao gi institusion-siha. I unibetsidåt-siha yan i nasionåt na organizasion-siha gi griegu despues guaha i åpmam na anti-hazing na pulitikå-siha, lao ålagunas na biahi, ma såsåfyiña para u manfula. Ma tungo’ na guaha hazing. Ma tungo’ na peligroso. Manå’nña para u ma prioritisa i reputasion yan i rentå gi i seguridå gi estudiante – asta un trahediå ha na’mames i kannai-ñiha. Este na institusionåt na neglehensia i kaseha ni’ in target gi i litiga-måmi, yan un kritiku na kåmponte para u in tene’ i manresponsable na patti-siha.

I Manå’dåyi na Kapitulo gi Kåsu Bermudez: I $10 Mit na Tinå’o-måmi, Gi Pa’go Mas Taimanu

I mas åktibu na ebidensia gi i komitamentu-måmi yan i kapasidå para u in fana’ñålang i hazing ti un marketing na bråhå, lao un aktibu, yan mumumåna’ na ligåt na gera. Guaha ham gi pa’go manpråpraksede un $10 mit na pleitu, ma fåyå gi Nobembre 2025, contra i Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, i Unibetsidåt gi Houston, i Båtde gi Rehentes-ñiha, sångan na indibiduåt na miembron i gima’yu’us, yan i korporasion gi gima’-ñiha. Este na kåsu, Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al., gi pa’go ha susede gi Harris County Civil District Court, yan ha ha’gåfmana’ i agresibu, data-driven, yan ti manapårå na dinagiå gi litiga gi hazing.

Para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands, este na kåsu guaha i åpmam na sinifika:

• Este ha susede gi Houston, lao sina ha susede gi manu na unibetsidåt gi Enteru America månu i patgon-mu sina manå’tda. I mismu na nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha ni’ i mismu na peligroso na kulturå-siha manåktibu gi kampus-siha gi Enteru U.S.
• I espesifiku na aksion-siha gi hazing gi este na kåsu manpå’pak, ma na’mamposa i håyi na ti manå’i na hazing un ti malångu. Ma såga un mångnge’ na manalo’ gi hafa i “tradision” gi pa’go.
• I pleitu-måmi ha na’sågå i kada un entidad ni’ responsable, ginen i nasionåt na fraternidåt yan i unibetsidåt para i indibiduåt na miembron i korporasion gi gima’. Este i manera para u in sårag i tutos na akontabilidåt, yan i mismu na estratihå ni’ in deploya para i familia gi Northern Mariana Islands.

Este i malångu na estoriya gi hafa ha susede:

Ti manofisiåtmente si Leonel Bermudez un estudiante gi Unibetsidåt gi Houston. Ha susede un “ghost rush,” un prospectibu na estudiante ni’ ha asepta un bid para u fanmaigo’ i Pi Kappa Phi fraternidåt gi Setembre 16, 2025. Ha såsåkkan para u trånsfere para UH gi i primavera 2026 na semestre, må’å’ñao para u fanmaigo’ i komunidå gi unibetsidåt. Lao, ha endured siette na simåna gi sitematiku na inafa’ñålang yan tortura ni’ ha na’ånånå gi ospitåt yan grave na rhabdomyolysis yan akiut na kidney na såfyi.

I abugådu-måmi, si Ralph Manginello yan si Lupe Peña, ma na’huyong i malångu na detåyi-siha gi media:

“Yanggen ha såsåyiña gi gima’, ha kålå’kåg i hagåt-siha yan ha malågo para u fanå’tås. I tutos na ha’åne, gof ha såsåyiña yan ti sina ha måtmo. I tutos na ha’åne mas malångu, yan i tutos na ha’åne, i nana-ña ha dångkulo’ gi ospitåt, yan guaha un kidney na såfyi,” si Ralph Manginello ha na’huyong gi ABC13. I emosionåt na inafa’ñålang gof klaru: “Ma representa ginen i abugådu-siha, si Ralph Manginello yan si Lupe Pena. Ma sangan gi ABC13 na i kliyente-ñiha å’ñao para u na’ huyong un interbista ginen i retribusion.”

Si Lupe Peña ha na’claru i mison-måmi, ha sangan gi ABC13, “Yanggen este ha na’che’uy i daño para i otru na taotao, ayu i in såsåkkan para u in fana’chu. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

I Linia Temporåt gi Hazing Ma Na’huyong:

• Setembre 16, 2025: Si Leonel Bermudez ha asepta un bid para i Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu na kapitulo gi Unibetsidåt gi Houston.
• Setembre 16 – Nobembre 3, 2025: Si Leonel ha endured un ti manapårå na kampåña gi hazing.
• Oktubre 13, 2025: Un otru na plesa ma hug-tie’ ha’få’chå’på’ gi un lamesa yan un obheto gi pachot-ña gi mas ki un ora gi un gima’yu’us.
• Oktubre 15, 2025: Un diferentemente na plesa ha maigo’ i konscienså-ña yan ha bumåtdu gi un mamposi na aktibidå, ma na’esesita i otru na plesa para u ma na’dångkulo’ i patan-ña asta u rekubåra. Este manå’ångge na sinåt ni’ ti ma iñgora.
• Nobembre 3, 2025: Si Leonel ma na’mamposi gi un brutal na kastigu ginen i ti ma pågå i evento. Ma få’na’na’ para u na’huyong mas ki 100 na pushups, 500 na squats, yan sångan na otru na malångu na ehersisio-siha komo i “high-volume suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, yan ti manapårå na 100-yard ना crawls guihi ha sangan i kreedu gi gima’yu’us. Ma na’å’ñao yan i inmeditå na ekspulsion yanggen ha fåtma. Ma na’mamposi “pasadu i punto gi fisikat na inafa’ñålang” asta ti sina ha såga sin ayuda.
• Nobembre 4-5, 2025: Si Leonel gof ti sina ha måtmo yan gof ha såsåyiña. I kondision-ña ha måktos.
• Nobembre 6, 2025: I nana-ña si Leonel ha dångkulo’ gi ospitåt gi Houston despues ha obserba na “ha fåsåyi un kulot kåfe na i’chen”—un kritiku na sinåt gi muscular na måktos. Ma diagnotisa yan grave na rhabdomyolysis yan akiut na kidney na såfyi.
• Nobembre 6-10, 2025: Si Leonel ha såga tres na puñot yan kuattro na ha’åne gi ospitåt, ma sagi intensibu na medikåt na tratamentu para u ma såfbyi i kidney-ñiha yan i lina’lå’-ña.
• Nobembre 14, 2025: I Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters ha ofisiåtmente ha så’gå i Beta Nu Chapter. Este na aksion ha susede siette na ha’åne antes gi i pleitu-måmi ma fåyå, un klaru na indiKaså na ma tungo’ i grave na såfyiña yan ha såsåkkan para u ma miti i måktos.
• Nobembre 21, 2025: Attorney911 ha fåyå un $10 mit na pleitu gi Harris County Civil District Court.

I Aktibidad-siha gi Hazing Ma Na’huyong:

I pleitu, gof ma ripottå ginen i ABC13, KHOU 11, i Houston Chronicle, yan i Houston Public Media, ha deskribe i aksion-siha gi inafa’ñålang na gof malångu ni’ ma na’såkkan i konsienså:

• Waterboarding/Simuladu na Maña’fuyi: Si Leonel ma na’mamposi gi “simuladu na waterboarding yan un ha’gåle’ gi hulu’,” ma påhå’gi gi mata gi i calisthenics, yan ma få’na’na’ para u kåråtå gi i tinå’o gi i mas biahi gi waterboarding. Komo i Houston Public Media ha sangan, “I waterboarding, ni’ ha simula i maña’fuyi, un klase gi tortura.” Este ti un kolehu na pråk; un gera na krimen.
• Ma Få’na’na’ Para u Kånna’ Asta u Bumåbula: I plesa-siha ma få’na’na’ para u mankånå masåda na leche, hot dogs, yan peppercorns asta u manbumåbula. Despues, ma få’na’na’ para u mankåråtå i sprints gi i malångu na kondision-ñiha yan u manå’tås gi i bumåbula na patsåt-ñiha.
• Ekstremu na Fisikat na Kastigu: Pasadu i 500 na squats yan 100 na pushups, si Leonel ha endured “high-volume suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother drills,” dos mit na warmups antes gi i workouts, yan ti manapårå na 100-yard na crawls. Ma na’palang i kannai-ñiha yan pa’pak na guma’ot. Un otru na plesa ha maigo’ i konscienså-ña durante este na manmalångu na sesion-siha.
• Saikologiko na Tortura yan Humiliasion: Si Leonel ma få’na’na’ para u na’huyong i attilu-ña gi manångnga’ na tiempo yan u tene’ “un fanny pack ni’ guaha i obheto-siha gi sexuat na naturå” gi kada biahi. I tinå’o gi fisikat na kastigu o ekspulsion manåstå’isi. I hog-tying na incidente ni’ maninvolu un otru na plesa ha ha’gåfmana’ i degradasion ni’ manåstå’isi gi i kapitulå.
• Ti Manå’tås Yan Maninana’: Ma få’na’na’ para u mankårå i miembron i gima’yu’us gi i dångkulo’ na otru na ha’åne, i inafa’ñålang-ña si Leonel ma na’intensionåtmente ha susede.

I Medikåt na Emerhensia: Rhabdomyolysis yan Kidney na Såfyi

I ekstremu na fisikat na inafa’ñålang ni’ ma na’mamposi gi Leonel ha na’huyong rhabdomyolysis, un grave na kondision ni’ i såfyi na muscular na tela ha na’pasa i peligroso na protinå-siha gi i dågån. Este na kondision, yanggen ti ma tratå, sina ha na’huyong akiut na kidney na såfyi yan ålagunas minalångu. I sintomå-ña si Leonel—ma påpåså kulot kåfe na i’chen, grave na muscular na såfyi, difikultåt gi i må’gåga’, yan ekstremu na dångkulo’ na creatine kinase na nibet—manåstå’isi na indikådor-siha gi grave na rhabdomyolysis. I kuattro-na-ha’åne na ospitålisasion-ña un kritiku na interbensiom para u ma na’che’uy i permanente na kidney na såfyi o mas malångu. Este ti un abstrak na inafa’ñålang; un lina’lå’ na såfyi na evento.

Institusionåt na Respondi: Admision gi Tådfida’

I respondi ginen i Pi Kappa Phi National yan i Unibetsidåt gi Houston, despues gi i mångnge’ na fino’-ñiha, manåstå’isi un admision gi grave na tådfida’:

• I Kaseha na website gi Pi Kappa Phi (Nobembre 21, 2025): Ma anunsiå na i Beta Nu Chapter ma så’gå “efektibu Nobembre 14, 2025, despues gi i mansåfyi na pulitikå gi risk management gi Fraternity yan i estandåris gi konduta gi miembru.” Este na så’gå, ha susede siette na ha’åne antes gi i pleitu-måmi ma fåyå, ha na’klaru i sinana gi i gråvidad gi i situasion yan i såsåkkan-ñiha gi dåño na kontrol. I estatementu-ñiha, “Manå’nña ham para u in sågå gi kampus gi i apropiåu na tiempo,” ha indikå lokkue’ un såfyi na tutos na inemågo’ yan un business-as-usual na aktitut gi i seguridå gi estudiante.
• I portabos gi Unibetsidåt gi Houston (Houston Public Media, Nobembre 24, 2025): Un UH na portabos ha sangan, “I evento-siha ni’ ma imbestigå manåstå’isi na manmalångu yan ma representa un klaru na såfyi gi i estandåris gi komunidå-måmi… manu na indibiduåt ni’ ma tungo’ na responsable gi hazing sina ha såga disiplinåriu na aksion, asta yan i ekspulsion yan i posible na kriminåt na kågo’.” Este ha na’klaru i gråvidad gi i hazing yan ha såtsåså i unibetsidåt na ha såsåkkan kriminåt na kågo’ i åddi gi sibil na responbidåd.

Sa’ Håfa Este na Kåsu Ha Resonå yan i Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands:

Este ti un lokal na estoriya gi Houston; un nasionåt na manalo’. I Northern Mariana Islands sina åpmam ginen Texas, lao i familiå-siha gi Enteru nasion manmanå’chå’gui i famagu’on-ñiha para unibetsidåt-siha månu i Pi Kappa Phi yan i otru na nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha manåktibu. Este na organizasion-siha despues manmanene’ i mismu na peligroso na “tradision-siha” gi Enteru kapitulå-ñiha. I Unibetsidåt gi Houston, komo sångan na institusion-siha gi Enteru U.S., guaha i ånmå na såfyi. I abilidad gi i gipot-måmi para u in tene’ este na multifacetu na ligåt na såfyi ha na’segura na i mismu na inustisiå contra i estudiante-siha ginen i Northern Mariana Islands ma dåtmo yan i mismu na agresibu, data-driven na ligåt na aksion.

Håfa Tutu’an i Hazing Ha Fåfå’fåtinas: Pasadu i Estereotipu-siha

Para i saina-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands, i imåhen gi i hazing gi kolehu sina ma limitå gi ti malångu na pråk-siha o ålagunas na inkonbeniensia. I magåhet mas malångu. I hazing gi pa’go despues i sitematiku na inafa’ñålang, ma desana para u ma måktos i hinasso gi un plesa yan u ma instila absolutuna obedisia ginen i å’å’ñao, humiliasion, yan fisikat na tortura. Ti “manå’nå’a i lahi-siha” o “karåkter na manna’huyong”; un bininu, yan sina guaha i lina’lå’ na konsekuensias.

I manå’dåyi na kåsu Bermudez ha klaru na ha’gåfmana’ i tutos na naturå gi moderno na hazing. I aksion-siha ni’ ma na’mamposi contra si Leonel Bermudez ti manåstå’isi na incidente-siha lao un kalkulå na kampåña gi saikologiku yan fisikat na tortura ni’ ha na’spiral gi medikåt na emerhensia.

Este i honestu na hå’få gi i hazing despues ha enta’, ginen i mumumåna’ na kåsu-måmi yan i nasionåt na data:

• Fisikat na Inafa’ñålang yan Tortura: Este ha inkluyå’ i brutal na patsåt yan pa’pak na guma’ot, komo i ma sagi si Leonel, branding, ma få’na’na’ na calisthenics para i punto gi bumåtdu (komo i 500 na squats yan 100 na pushups asta kidney na såfyi), yan ålagunas “simuladu na waterboarding” o otru na klase gi water torture. I plesa-siha sina ma få’na’na’ para u manåstå’isi na fisikat na ehersisio, ma na’depriva i maigo’, o ma ekspone gi malångu na ambiente-siha, ma na’på’pak i hipothermia o heatstroke.
• Ma Få’na’na’ na Konsumu: Este un halla’marka gi sångan na incidente-siha gi hazing yan despues ha na’huyong i mas grave na inafa’ñålang yan minalångu. I manpobri ma få’na’na’ para u mankonsumu masåda na kantidå gi alkahåt, ma na’huyong i alkohol na manana’gu, o mankånå masåda na kantidå gi ti manmagof na kånnå’, o ålagunas ti mankånnå’ na sustånsia-siha, despues asta u manbumåbula. I kåsu Bermudez ha involu i ma få’na’na’ na kånna’ leche, hot dogs, yan peppercorns, despues gi otru na fisikat na distress gi i bumåbula-ñiha.
• Sexuat na Inafa’ñålang yan Humiliasion: I hazing despues ha inkluyå’ i aksion-siha gi sexuat na degradasion, komo i ma få’na’na’ na nudes, sexuat na åsåt, simuladu na sexuat na aksion-siha, o i tinene’ gi sexuat na obheto-siha, komo i ma få’na’na’ si Leonel yan i fanny pack. Este na kategoria gi hazing ha na’såfyiña i åpmam yan permanente na saikologiku na dåño.
• Saikologiko na Tortura: Este ha involu i taktikå-siha ni’ ma desana para u ma måktos i indibiduåt gi i menså. Ha inkluyå’ i kåstånt na berbal na inafa’ñålang, tinå’o, isolasion, ti manå’tås, yan ekstremu na humiliasion. I å’å’ñao gi retribusion, komo i kliyente-måmi si Leonel ha ha’gåfmana’, un dångkulo’ na saikologiku na så’fyi ni’ ma na’såfyiña ginen i hazer-siha. Este na taktikå-siha sina ha na’huyong i grave na mental na malångu-siha komo i PTSD, ansiedad, depresion, yan ålagunas suicidåt na sinåsakan.
• Servitut yan Kontrol: I plesa-siha despues manma tatratå komo sirbidu, ma få’na’na’ para u manå’chå’gui i sinåsakan, manå’såga’, mankårå ti manapårå na errands, o mankårå i miembron i gima’yu’us gi Enteru oras, ma na’huyong i autonomina-ñiha yan i basiku na humanu na dignidad. I ma få’na’na’ na dress codes, istudiån na oras, yan simanå na “interbista-siha” ni’ si Leonel ha endured ha kontribuhi gi este na kabales na kontrol.

I Medikåt na Managahet:

I impaktu gi este na inafa’ñålang åpmam ginen i menot, ma na’huyong grave yan ålagunas permanente na inafa’ñålang:

• Rhabdomyolysis yan Kidney na Såfyi: Komo i ma li’e’ gi i mumumåna’ na kåsu-måmi, i ekstremu na fisikat na ehersisio sina ha na’huyong muscular na måktos yan lina’lå’ na peligroso na kidney na dåño.
• Alkohol na Manana’gu: Ma få’na’na’ na binge drinking un åktibu na rason gi minalångu gi hazing, ma na’såfyiña ti manå’dåyi na utak na dåño o organ na såfyi.
• Traumatiku na Utak na Inafa’ñålang (TBI): Ginen i bumåtdu, palu gi i utå’, o ekstremu na fisikat na presyon.
• Hipothermia/Heatstroke: Eksposision gi ekstremu na kondision-siha gi tiempo sina ha na’huyong lina’lå’ na peligroso na temperatula gi tatå.
• Kardiak na Atåkå: I ekstremu na fisikat na ehersisio sina ha na’huyong utak na såfyi.
• PTSD, Ansiedad, Depresion: I saikologiku na eskår despues ha då’åhi åpmam despues gi i fisikat na såfyi ma å’ñao, ma na’esesita åñu-siha gi teråpiå. Unu gi i espesifiku na area gi expertiå-måmi i rekubåra i kompensasion para i manpobri gi saikologiku na trawma.

Para i estudiante-siha ginen i Northern Mariana Islands, ni’ sina manå’adaptåña gi un nuebu na kulturåt na ambiente, este na dramatiku’ na experensia-siha sina mas ma na’isola yan mas malångu. I falsuna presensia gi ‘brotherhood’ o ‘sisterhood’ ha na’tågo’ un sistema gi brutalidåt. In na’segura na este na managahet-siha ma komprende mankabales ginen i hurådu-siha yan ma åkontå gi i dåño-siha ni’ in dagiå.

Håyi i Responsable? Ma Tene’ i Kada un Entidad ni’ Responsable

Yanggen un patgon ginen i Northern Mariana Islands ma dåño ginen i hazing, despues ti guaha un taotao o un organizasion ni’ responsable. I experensia-måmi, espesiåtmente gi i kåsu Bermudez, ha ha’gåfmana’ na sångan na patti-siha i despues manresponsable. In såsåkkan para u in tene’ i kada un entidad ni’ responsable, ginen i indibiduåt na taotao-siha asta i dångkulo na institusion-siha ni’ ha na’åtmana i inafa’ñålang. Este na kumprehensibu na dinagiå i kritiku para u in segura i maksimum na kompensasion yan u in na’segura na este na trahediå-siha ti ma susede mas biahi.

Este i balånsi gi håyi sina ma tene’ ni’ responsable, komo i ma ha’gåfmana’ ginen i mumumåna’ na $10 mit na pleitu-måmi:

1. I Lokal na Kapitulo gi i Fraternity/Sorority:

   • Sa’ håfa manresponsable: I kapitulo direchu ha plånå, ha organizå, yan ha fulå i ritu-siha gi hazing. Sigi i inmeditå na taotao-siha ni’ manå’dira gi inafa’ñålang. Gi i kåsu Bermudez, i Beta Nu Chapter gi Pi Kappa Phi direchu ha responsabile gi i waterboarding, ma få’na’na’ na ehersisio, yan otru na aksion-siha gi inafa’ñålang.
   • I Dinagiå-måmi: In såsåkkan para u in istablisa i direchu na involbimentu gi i kapitulo gi i aktibidad-siha gi hazing, despues ma na’sågå i kapitulo komo un ti maninkorpora na asosiasion o ginen i lideråtgu-ña.

2. Opisial-siha gi Kapitulo yan Indibiduåt na Miembron-siha:

   • Sa’ håfa manresponsable: I presidente, pledgemaster, risk manager, yan otru na lider-siha gi i kapitulo despues man direchu yan man orkestrå i hazing. I rank-and-file na miembron-siha ni’ maninvolu, manå’dira, o ålagunas man testigo yan ti ma ripotta i hazing sina lokkue’ ma tene’ personalu na responsable. Gi i kåsu Bermudez, in na’sågå i presidente gi gima’yu’us, pledgemaster, yan sångan na mumumåna’ yan kanhi na miembron-siha.
   • I Dinagiå-måmi: In gagiå i indibiduåt-siha para i intentional na tortå-siha komo i åsåt yan batrri. I Stone Foltz na kåsu na prezedente, månu i presidente gi kapitulo ma tene’ personalu na responsable para un $6.5 mit na hudgamentu, ha probå na i indibiduåt-siha ti sina ma fanatågo’ patras gi i då’åyen gi gima’yu’us. Este na indibiduåt-siha, despues estudiante-siha gi kolehu o hoben na profesionales, manå’dira grave na personalu yan finansiat na konsekuensias, ma na’claru i gråvidad gi i aksion-ñiha.

3. Nasionåt na Organizasion gi Fraternity o Sorority:

   • Sa’ håfa manresponsable: I nasionåt na organizasion-siha, yan i åpmam na rekursu-ñiha yan i nasionåt na presensia, guaha un klaru na dibet para u ma superbiså i lokal na kapitulo-ñiha, u ma fulå i anti-hazing na pulitikå-siha, yan u ma na’segura i seguridå gi estudiante. Yanggen ma såsåfyiña para u manfå’chu, ma tene’ ni’ responsable. Gi i kåsu Bermudez, i Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters un sentråt na defendanto sa’ guaha i actual na sinana gi “un hazing na krisis” yan un dokumentå na historia gi måtmaña na hazing (i minalångu-ña si Andrew Coffey gi 2017), lao ma såsåfyiña para u ma na’che’uy i ospitålisasion-ña si Leonel.
   • I Dinagiå-måmi: In tene’ i nasionåt na organizasion-siha ni’ responsable gi neglehento na superbisasion, såfyi para u manå’entrene, yan såfyi para u manfulå i kaseha na pulitikå-ñiha. In target despues i sineransåt na tagå’na-siha yan i dångkulo na asåti-siha. I dual-state bar admissions-måmi (Texas yan New York) yan i federal na aturidå gi kåt ha na’i ham un estratihiku na abantåhi gi dagiå gi este na dångkulo na nasionåt na entidad-siha, ni’ sina guaha headquarters-ñiha o sångan na operasion-siha gi tåfada gi Texas.

4. Korporasion-siha gi Gima’ (Lokal yan Nasionåt):

   • Sa’ håfa manresponsable: Sångan na fraternidåt-siha manåktibu ginen separå na korporasion-siha gi gima’ ni’ guaha, ha lease, o ha mahåyå i propieståd-siha månu i hazing despues ha susede. Este na entidad-siha guaha i premisas na responbidåd gi i peligroso na kondision-siha gi i propieståd-ñiha. I Beta Nu Housing Corporation, direchu asociado yan i Pi Kappa Phi, un defendanto gi i kåsu Bermudez.
   • I Dinagiå-måmi: Ginen i tinå’o gi IRS-registered na organizasion-siha gi griegu, in pinpoint este na entidad-siha, despues in diskubre sångan na propieståd na ha guaha yan insuranse na kåbiyu ni’ sina ha kontribuhi gi un settlementu.

5. I Unibetsidåt o Kolehu:

   • Sa’ håfa manresponsable: I unibetsidåt-siha guaha i ti manå’dåyi na dibet para u ma protehi i estudiante-ñiha, espesiåtmente yanggen i hazing ha susede gi unibetsidåt-owned o kontrolå na propieståd. Ma regulå despues i griegu na lina’lå’, guaha i få’nå’nå’ para u maninterbende, yan manå’å’ñao gi i riesgo-siha. Gi i kåsu Bermudez, i Unibetsidåt gi Houston yan i Båtde gi Rehentes-ñiha manåktibu na defendanto-siha. Gof kritiku, i hazing ha susede gi un “Unibetsidåt-owned na fraternidåt na gima’,” ha na’i UH un ti manå’dåyi na premisas na responbidåd. UH lokkue’ guaha i anterior na sinana gi estudiante-siha gi ospitålisasion-siha ginen i hazing gi 2017, lao ma såsåfyiña para u manfulå i efektibu na seguridå.
   • I Dinagiå-måmi: In target i unibetsidåt-siha ni’ neglehento na superbisasion, premisas na responbidåd, yan såfyi para u ma protehi i estudiante-siha. I unibetsidåt-siha manå’dira dångkulo’ na reputasionåt na dåño i åddi gi sibil na kastigu yanggen i trahediå-siha gi hazing manå’tda gi luz.

6. Manhanåo na Miembron-siha yan i Esposa-ñiha/Familiå-siha:

   • Sa’ håfa manresponsable: Ålagunas na biahi i hazing ha susede gi tåfada-campus na residensia-siha ni’ guaha o ma kontrolå ginen i manhanåo na miembron-siha o i familiå-ñiha. Yanggen ma ånå o ma facilita i hazing gi i propieståd-ñiha, sina lokkue’ ma tene’ ni’ responsable sigon gi premisas na responbidåd yan otru na teyori-siha gi neglehensia. Gi i kåsu Bermudez, un manhanåo na miembru yan i esposa-ña man na’sågå na defendanto-siha sa’ i hazing na sesion-siha man susede gi i pribådu na residensia-ñiha.
   • I Dinagiå-måmi: Este ha na’dångkulo’ i iskopu gi guaha na insuranse na kåbiyu, posible na ha inkluyå’ i poliså-siha gi homeowner, ma na’segura na i Enteru na såsa’en para i rekubåri ma eksplorå.

7. Manufaktura/Manå’dira na Alkohåt o Sustånsia-siha:

   • Sa’ håfa manresponsable (Dram Shop): Yanggen un lisensidu na estableSimentu (bar, restorånt) o ålagunas indibiduåt-siha ma na’manå’dira alkahåt para i menot-siha o i binit åktibu na taotao-siha, ma kontribuhi gi i inafa’ñålang gi hazing, sina lokkue’ ma tene’ ni’ responsable sigon gi “dram shop” na lai-siha. I gipot-måmi guaha espesifiku na expertiå gi dram shop na responbidåd.
   • I Dinagiå-måmi: In imbestigå i fuente gi alkahåt yan otru na sustånsia-siha ni’ maninvolu gi hazing para u in identifika i åddi na responsable na patti-siha.

I Få’nå’nå’ gi “Deep Pockets”:

I impottåt para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands para u ma komprende na i dagiå gi hazing ti un åstå’isi na måmaña’la i “broke college kids.” I ålktimu na såsåkkan i tene’ i institusion-siha ni’ guaha i “deep pockets”—nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha ni’ guaha i multi-mit na dolat na endowment-siha yan insuranse na pulitikå-siha, yan unibetsidåt-siha ni’ guaha i åpmam na rekursu-ñiha yan responbidåd na kåbiyu. Este i entidad-siha ni’ guaha i få’nå’nå’ para u ma så’gå i hazing, yan i ayu-siha ni’ debidiña u manå’dira i finansiat na konsekuensias yanggen ma såsåfyiña. Komo manhanåo na abugådu-siha gi insuranse na depensa, si Ralph Manginello yan si Lupe Peña guaha i inbaluåbu na insaidu na sinana gi håfa i este na dångkulo na organizasion-siha yan i insuranse-ñiha manevaluå, manedepensa, yan manå’gå i pleitu-siha, ha na’i i kliyente-måmi un kritiku na abantåhi.

Håfa na Este na Kåsu-siha Ha Gannå: Multi-Mit na Dolar na Pru’eba

I hinasso gi dagiå gi un nasionåt na fraternidåt o un dångkulo na unibetsidåt sina ha såfyiña un malångu para un familia ginen i Northern Mariana Islands. Lao i historia, yan i mumumåna’ na litiga-måmi, ha probå na este na batålla-siha sina ma gannå, yan i finansiat yan sitemiku na konsekuensias para i manresponsable na patti-siha sina dångkulo. I familiå-siha gi Enteru America mansegura multi-mit na dolat na hudgamentu-siha yan settlementu-siha gi kåso-siha gi hazing, ti åstå’isi para i kompensasion, lao para u ma få’na’na’ i kritiku na kåmbiå-siha ni’ manå’få’ma i lina’lå’.

I $10 mit na pleitu-måmi para si Leonel Bermudez ti un årbiteru na numiru; ma tuno’ manfå’chå’på’ gi este na sångan na prezedente-siha:

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

• Kabales na Rekubåri: $10.1 Mit+
• Håfa ha susede: Si Stone Foltz, un 20-na-åñu na plesa gi Bowling Green State University, ma få’na’na’ para u kumånna’ un Enteru na boteya gi alkahåt durante un Pi Kappa Alpha hazing na evento gi Matso 2021. Ha måtma ginen i akiut na alkohol na manana’gu.
• I Akontabilidåt: I familia Foltz ha segurå $7.2 mit ginen i Pi Kappa Alpha National yan i miembron-ña, yan un åddi na $2.9 mit ginen i Bowling Green State University, ma na’markå i mas dångkulo na publku na unibetsidåt hazing na pågå gi historia gi Ohio. Mas resiente, gi Disembre 2024, un hurådu ha få’nå’nå’ i manhanåo na kapitulo presidente, si Daylen Dunson, para u personalu na pågå $6.5 mit gi un inafa’ñålang na hudgamentu gi minalångu.
• Sinifika para i Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands: Este na kåsu direchu ha sågå i $10 mit na demand-måmi para si Leonel Bermudez. Ha probå na bå’t i unibetsidåt-siha yan i nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha manå’dira multi-mit na dolat na responbidåd, yan kritiku, na i indibiduåt na opisial-siha sina ma tene’ personalu na responsable.

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

• Kabales na Rekubåri: $6.1 Mit na Hudgamentu gi Hurådu
• Håfa ha susede: Gi Setembre 2017, i 18-na-åñu na si Max Gruver ha måtma ginen i akiut na alkohol na manana’gu (BAC 0.495) durante un Phi Delta Theta hazing na evento gi LSU, månu i plesa-siha ma få’na’na’ para u mankånna’ eksesibu na alkahåt para ti manå’dåyi na respondi-siha durante un mock “Bible study.”
• I Akontabilidåt: I familia-ña ma na’i $6.1 mit na hudgamentu gi hurådu. I kriminåt na konsekuensias manåstå’isi, yan un miembru ma kondena gi neglehento na homisidiå yan ma sensensiå para u présida. I trahediå ha na’huyong i Max Gruver Act, ma na’huyong i hazing un felony gi Louisiana.
• Sinifika para i Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands: Este na hudgamentu ha ha’gåfmana’ na i hurådu-siha manmå’fåtinas para u manå’dira sångan na åwåt-siha gi kåso-siha gi hazing. Ha ha’gåfmana’ i posible para i bå’t sibil yan kriminåt na akontabilidåt, yan håfa i este na kåsu-siha despues ha na’huyong i lehislatibu na refomå-siha, ma na’sinåt i kåmbiå gi sosietåt na tolerånsia para i hazing.

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

• Kabales na Rekubåri: $110 Mit+ (Estimidu na Settlementu)
• Håfa ha susede: Gi Febreru 2017, si Timothy Piazza, un 19-na-åñu na Penn State na plesa, ma få’na’na’ para u mankonsumu 18 na gollai gi 82 na minutu durante un Beta Theta Pi “gauntlet” hazing na rituå. Yan un BAC gi 0.36, ha bumåtdu gi hagåt-siha, ma såfyiña un traumatiku na utak na inafa’ñålang yan internal na manana’gu. I miembron i gima’yu’us manå’nå’da gi mas ki 12 na oras antes gi i tinå’o gi 911. Ha måtma dos na ha’åne despues. I seguridå na kamera-siha gi i lånau gi kapitulo gof ma na’huyong i malångu na evento-siha.
• I Akontabilidåt: I familia Piazza ha segurå un kumfidentsiåt na settlementu ma estimå para u mas ki $110 mit ginen sångan na patti-siha. Dåskåchå na miembron i gima’yu’us manå’dira kriminåt na kågo’, yan sångan na kondenasion-siha para i inabolunta ria na manmålågo’ yan hazing. I Pennsylvania ha fåyå i kumprehensibu na Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.
• Sinifika para i Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands: Este na dångkulo’ na settlementu ha na’claru i presiu ni’ i institusion-siha manpå’gå yanggen guaha klaru na ebidensia gi malångu na hazing yan un ti manå’dåyi na inemågo’ para i lina’lå’ gi un manpobre. Ha såtsågå un benchmark para i kåsu-siha yan åpmam na ebidensia, un kategoria ni’ in såsangan na i kåsu-ña si Leonel Bermudez ha såfyiña.

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

• Håfa ha susede: Gi Nobembre 3, 2017, i Pi Kappa Phi na plesa si Andrew Coffey ha måtma ginen i akiut na alkohol na manana’gu despues ma få’na’na’ para u kumånna’ un Enteru na boteya gi bourbon gi un “Big Brother Night” hazing na evento gi Florida State University.
• I Akontabilidåt: Nuibe na miembron i gima’yu’us manå’dira kriminåt na kågo’, yan FSU ha permanente ha så’gå i kapitulo. I familia-ña ha gagiå un sibil na pleitu, ni’ ha na’huyong un kumfidentsiåt na settlementu.
• Sinifika para i Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands: Este na kåsu unikåtmente kritiku sa’ i Pi Kappa Phi i fraternidåt ni’ maninvolu. Si Andrew Coffey ha måtma gi Nobembre 3, 2017. Ocho na åñu despues, gi Nobembre 3, 2025, si Leonel Bermudez ha bumåtdu ginen i hazing gi otru na kapitulo gi Pi Kappa Phi. Este na malångu na koinsidensia ha probå na i Pi Kappa Phi National guaha i actual na note gi i måtmaña na hazing na problema yan ocho na åñu para u ma såfyiña, lao ma såsåfyiña. Este na ånmå gi neglehensia sina sentråt para i årgumentu-måmi para i punitibu na dåño-siha contra i Pi Kappa Phi.

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

• Kabales na Rekubåri: $4 Mit+ Settlementu
• Håfa ha susede: Gi Febreru 2021, si Adam Oakes, un 19-na-åñu na Delta Chi na plesa gi VCU, ha måtma ginen i akiut na alkohol na manana’gu despues ma få’na’na’ para u kumånna’ un Enteru na boteya gi Jack Daniel’s whiskey durante un hazing na evento.
• I Akontabilidåt: I familia-ña, ni’ iniziatmente ha dagiå $28 mit, ha segurå un settlementu gi mas ki $4 mit gi Oktubre 2024. Sas na miembron i gima’yu’us manå’dira kriminåt na kågo’, yan i familia ha såksiña ha abogado para i Adam’s Law gi Virginia, ma mandåt i anti-hazing na edukasion.
• Sinifika para i Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands: Este na resiente na settlementu, ginen un iniziatmente na $28 mit na demand, ha na’fånnuma na i sångan na rekubåri-siha manå’dåyi pat ålagunas ti ha susede un kabales na hurådu na pleitu. Ha ha’gåfmana’ lokkue’ i lehislatibu na impaktu gi este na trahik na kåsu-siha.

I Mensåhi para i Northern Mariana Islands:

Este na prezedente-siha ha na’huyong un ti manå’dåyi na mensåhi para i nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha, unibetsidåt-siha, yan i insuranse na tagå’na-siha: I hazing un multi-mit na dolat na responbidåd. I $10 mit ni’ in såksakan para si Leonel Bermudez ha reflehå ti åstå’isi i gråvidad gi inafa’ñålang-ña yan i ti manå’dåyi gi defendanto-siha lao lokkue’ i istabliså na balu hurådu-siha yan institusion-siha ni’ ma tene’ i manå’dira na responsable. Para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands, este na kåsu-siha manå’dira i esperansa yan un klaru na såsa’en para i hustisiå.

Texas Lai ha Protehi Håmyu: Kumprende i Anti-Hazing na Statutå-siha

Para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands ni’ i patgon-ñiha ma na’åstå’isi ginen i hazing, i kumprende i ligåt na kådra i kritiku. Mientras i gipot-måmi matuno’ gi Texas, i prinsipu-siha gi anti-hazing na lai-siha yan sibil na responbidåd despues manmismu gi Enteru stådu-siha. Mas sigi, i federal na aturidå gi kåt ha sinifika na sina in gagiå i kåsu gi patgon-mu gi federal na hurisdiksion, ålagunas yanggen i hazing ha susede gi tåfada gi Texas. Sina in chachalani i mismu na agresibu na ligåt na estratihå-siha ni’ in fulå sigon gi Texas na lai para i kåsu gi patgon-mu, månu ha susede.

Let’s look at the specific protections afforded by Texas law, which guides our strategy for hazing victims:

Texas Edukasional na Kodi: Un Fuerte na Ligåt na Fundasion

I Texas guaha i robustu na anti-hazing na lai-siha ma desana para u ma protehi i estudiante-siha yan u ma tene’ i manå’dira yan i institusion-siha ni’ responsable. Este na statutå-siha (Texas Education Code § 37.151-37.157) manå’dåyi yan klaru:

• Definsion gi Hazing (§ 37.151): I Texas na lai ha difini i hazing komo manu na intentional, sinana, o reckles na aksion, gi o gi tåfada gi kampus, ma direkta contra un estudiante para i såsåkkan para u fanmaigo’ o u manene’ i miembru gi un organizasion, yanggen este na aksion:

  • Ha involu fisikat na brutalidåt (whipping, beating, striking, branding, ets., komo si Leonel ha sagi yan pa’pak na guma’ot).
  • Ha involu ti manå’tås, eksposision gi elementu-siha (komo i ma na’huyong gi manångnga’ na tiempo yan ma påhå’gi i hulu’), kunfainmentu, o calisthenics (500 na squats, 100 na pushups, bear crawls) ni’ ha na’på’pak un ti manå’dåyi na riesgo gi dåño o ha na’åstå’isi i fisikat o mental na salu. I rhabdomyolysis-ña si Leonel yan i kidney na såfyi direchu ha såfyiña este.
  • Ha involu ma få’na’na’ na konsumu gi kånnå’, likidu, o alkahåt ni’ ha na’huyong ti manå’dåyi na riesgo (komo i leche, hot dogs, yan peppercorns ni’ si Leonel ma få’na’na’ para u kånna’ asta u bumåbula).
  • I kåsu Bermudez-måmi ha såfyiña sångan na elementu gi este na statutåt na difinsion, ha ha’gåfmana’ na direchu i este na lai-siha manfulå gi grave na hazing.

• Kriminåt na Kastigu-siha (§ 37.152): I hazing un krimen gi Texas.

  • I involbimentu gi hazing o i solicite-ña i despues un Class B Misdemeanor.
  • I hazing ni’ ha na’huyong grave na fisikat na inafa’ñålang (komo i rhabdomyolysis-ña si Leonel Bermudez yan i kidney na såfyi) ha na’dångkulo para un Class A Misdemeanor, ma kastiga yan asta un åñu gi sånga-otras yan un $4,000 na kastigu.
  • I hazing ni’ ha na’huyong minalångu un State Jail Felony, ma kastiga yan asta dos na åñu gi state jail yan un $10,000 na kastigu.
  • I portabos gi Unibetsidåt gi Houston ålagunas ha ha’gåfmana’ i “posible na kriminåt na kågo'” gi relasion gi kåsu-ña si Leonel, ha indikå na i aturidå-siha manene’ i este na lai-siha manmanene’ manå’dåyi.

• Organizasionåt na Responbidåd (§ 37.153): I lai ha få’fåsåyi i indibiduåt-siha. Un organizasion ha såfyiña un ofensa yanggen ha “kondena o ha na’ångga i hazing” o yanggen i opisial-ñiha o miembron-ñiha manå’dira hazing. I kastigu-siha sina ha inkluyå’ i kastigu-siha gi asta $10,000 yan i tinå’o gi derechu para u manåktibu gi kampus. Este direchu ha na’på’pak i nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha yan i lokal na kapitulo-siha.

• Konsesion TI un Depensa (§ 37.154): Este i mas kritiku na proteksion para i manpobri gi hazing. I Texas Lehislasyon ha sangan klaru: “Ti un depensa para i prosekusyon… na i taotao ni’ i hazing ma direkta contra ha tumåyak o ha åsepta i hazing na aktibidad.”

  • Este ha så’gå i komon na depensa ni’ ma fulå ginen i fraternidåt-siha yan unibetsidåt-siha: “Ha sågå para u fanmaigo’,” o “Sina ha sågå.”
  • I lai ha na’klaru na i tutos na konsesion ti sina ha ekiste gi koersibuna hazing na ambiente-siha. Para un estudiante ginen i Northern Mariana Islands, ni’ sina ha sagi i dångkulo’ na presyon para u mankomforme gi un nuebu, ti manå’i na ambiente, este na ligåt na prinsipu i espesiåtmente vital.

• Unibetsidåt na Ripotta na Rekuisitu-siha (§ 37.155): I unibetsidåt-siha manligåtmente manmandåt para u ma ripotta i incidente-siha gi hazing para i Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board gi lånau gi 30 na ha’åne, o u manå’dira kriminåt na kastigu-siha. Este ha na’segura i akontabilidåt yan ha na’huyong un papet na då’åyi para u in diskubre durante i diskubrimientu.

Sibil na Responbidåd: Pasadu i Kriminåt na Kågo’

Mientras i kriminåt na kågo’ mankastiga i taotao-siha ni’ manå’dira i inafa’ñålang, i sibil na pleitu-siha ma desana para u ma kompenså i manpobri para i dångkulo’ na inafa’ñålang-ñiha yan i manå’åhi. Manå’dåyi gi yanggen kriminåt na kågo’ ma fåyå o ha na’huyong kondenasion-siha, i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands sina manå’dagiå sångan na sibil na pleitu-siha:

1. Neglehensia: Este i mas komon na sibil na pleitu. Ha asertå na i defendanto-siha (indibiduåt-siha, fraternidåt-siha, unibetsidåt-siha) guaha i dibet gi kåru para i estudiante, ha breach ayu na dibet ginen i tinå’o o ha na’huyong hazing, ni’ ha na’huyong sångan na dåño (inafa’ñålang, medikåt na bilyå, saikologiku na trawma).
2. Premisas na Responbidåd: Yanggen i hazing ha susede gi propieståd ni’ guaha o ma kontrolå ginen i unibetsidåt o un korporasion gi gima’ (komo i Unibetsidåt-owned na fraternidåt na gima’ gi i kåsu Bermudez), este na entidad-siha sina ma tene’ ni’ responsable gi såfyi para u manå’ga i seguru na premisas yan u ma ånå i peligroso na kondision-siha para u manekiste.
3. Neglehento na Superbisasion: Este ha fulå yanggen i nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha ma såfyiña para u manadekuåtmente manå’a i kapitulo-ñiha, o i unibetsidåt-siha ma såfyiña para u manrigulå i griegu na lina’lå’, ma na’huyong incidente-siha gi hazing. I inaksion-ñiha direchu ha kontribuhi gi i dåño ni’ ma sagi i estudiante-siha, inkluyendu ayu-siha ginen i Northern Mariana Islands.
4. Åsåt yan Batrri: Este i intentional na tortå-siha ni’ sina ma chachalani contra i indibiduåt na taotao-siha. I “Batrri” i intentional na dåño o ofensibo na fisikat na kåntak (e.g., paddling, striking, ma få’na’na’ na waterboarding). I “Åsåt” i intentional na na’huyong åprhension gi dåño o ofensibo na kåntak.
5. Intentional na Inafa’ñålang gi Emosionåt na Stress (IIED): Este na pleitu ha dagiå i grave na saikologiku na dåño ni’ ma na’huyong ginen i hazing. Ha rekuairi i probasion na i defendanto-siha maninvolu gi “extremu yan malångu” na konduta ni’ ha na’huyong “grave na emosionåt na stress.” I waterboarding, ma få’na’na’ na humiliasion, yan sitematiku na tortura manå’dåyi este na nibet.

Håfa este ha sinifika para i Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands:

Este na ligåt na kådra-siha ha na’fånnuma i estudiante-siha ginen i Northern Mariana Islands yan i familiå-ñiha para u ma såkkan i kumprehensibu na hustisiå. I gipot-måmi gof ha komprende este na lai-siha yan ha fulå para u ma nå’huyong i ti manå’dåyi na kåsu-siha. I fakta na “konsesion ti un depensa” ha sinifika na manu na såsåkkan para u ma sågår i patgon-mu para i kaseha na inafa’ñålang ti ligåtmente balidu. In fulå este na statutå-siha para u in tene’ i kada un responsable na patti—indibiduåt-siha, lokal na kapitulo-siha, nasionåt na organizasion-siha, yan i edukasionåt na institusion-siha—manå’dåyi na responsable para i malångu na impaktu gi hazing.

Sa’ Håfa i Attorney911 i Klaru na Option para i Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands

Yanggen ha susede un emerhensia gi hazing, i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands manesesita mas ki un abugådu; manesesita un mananå’ågå ni’ ti åstå’isi ha komprende i kumplehu na hazing na litiga lao lokkue’ guaha i experensia, rekursu, yan ti manapårå na komitamentu para u manågå contra i få’nå’nå’ na institusion-siha. I Attorney911 i ayu na mananå’ågå. Mientras i prinsipu na opisina-måmi gi Houston, Austin, yan Beaumont, i reach-måmi, kapasidå, yan dedikasitn ha å’pmå gi Enteru nasion, ha na’i un ti manå’dåyi na representasion para i manpobri gi hazing ginen i Northern Mariana Islands.

Este i rason sa’ håfa i Attorney911 i klaru na option para i familia-mu:

1. Unmatched Hazing Litiga na Expertiå: Guaha Ham Gi i Tinå’o Gi Pa’go.

Sångan na gipot-siha sina ha sangan na manå’chu’ i personal na inafa’ñålang. Guaha ham gi pa’go manåktibu manågå gi un $10 mit na hazing na pleitu contra i Pi Kappa Phi yan i Unibetsidåt gi Houston—un kåsu ni’ guaha sångan na media na atension gi Enteru Texas. Este ti teoretiku; este i tutos na tåno’, agresibu na litiga ni’ ha susede gi pa’go. Ti ham “someday we hope to handle hazing cases”; guaha ham manfå’få’chu, yan manfå’få’chu efektibu, yan i kliyente-måmi, si Leonel Bermudez, gi i sentro. Este na hands-on, mumumåna’ na experensia ha sinifika na in chachalani un ti manå’dåyi na kumprende gi i taktikå-siha, depensa-siha, yan ebidensia ni’ manesesita para u in gannå este na kumplehu na kåsu-siha gi hazing para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands.

2. Deep Insaidu na Sinana: Manhanåo na Abugådu-siha gi Insuranse na Depensa.

Bå’t i lider na abugådu-måmi, si Ralph Manginello yan si Lupe Peña, manåktibu gi inisiåtmente na karrera-ñiha manå’chå’gui para i otru na så’en—manedepensa i insuranse na tagå’na-siha yan korporasion-siha. Este ha na’i ham un ti manå’dåyi na estratihiku na abantåhi.

• Si Ralph Manginello ha då’åhi åñu-siha ha å’å’nåk i taktikå-siha ni’ i insuranse na tagå’na-siha manfulå para u ma sågå i pleitu-siha yan u ma minimisa i pågå-siha. Gi pa’go, ha fulå ayu na playbook contra i ayu-siha, ha tungo’ i estratihå-ñiha antes gi u manfulå.
• Si Lupe Peña, ni’ ha då’åhi yan un nasionåt na depensa na gipot, Litchfield Cavo LLP, ha såståga’ insaidu na sinana gi håfa i dångkulo na korporasion-siha yan i insuranse-ñiha manåktibu, manevaluå pleitu-siha, yan manestratihå depensa-siha gi sångan na area gi pråktis. Gi pa’go ha fulå este na “insaidu na informasion” para u ma na’huyong i kåsu-ñiha yan u ma maximisa i rekubåri para i kliyente-måmi.
  Este na unikona background ha sinifika na in antisipa i kåmbiå-ñiha, in komprende i valuasionåt na metodu-ñiha, yan guaha i insintu-måmi ni’ manesesita para u in åpmå i depensa-ñiha, ha na’i i manpobri gi hazing gi Northern Mariana Islands un esensiåt na edge.

3. Federal na Aturidå gi Kåt yan Enteru Nasion na Reach.

I hazing despues ha involu i nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha yan unibetsidåt-siha ni’ manåktibu gi tåfada na linderu gi stådu. I gipot-måmi ma admiti para u manpråktiså gi U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, ha na’i ham federal na aturidå gi kåt. I åddi, si Ralph Manginello guaha i dual-state bar admissions gi Texas YAN New York, ha na’i ham estratihiku na fleksibilidad yanggen manbatålla contra i nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha ni’ sina guaha headquarters-ñiha o manåktibu sångan gi tåfada gi Texas. Este ha sinifika na sina in gagiå i kåsu gi hazing gi patgon-mu manå’dåyi gi månu ha susede i incidente gi Estados Unidos, ma chachalani i expertiå-måmi direchu gi i familia gi Northern Mariana Islands. Sina in biahe para i deposision-siha, pleitu-siha, yan kritiku na kliyente na miting-siha, manåktibu komo i ligåt na emerhensia na espesialista-siha manå’dåyi gi distånsia.

4. Manprobå na Track Record Contra i Grandes Korporasion-siha.

I anterior na involbimentu-ña si Ralph Manginello gi i multi-bilion na dolat BP Texas City Explosion na litiga (ni’ ha måtma 15 na obrero yan ha na’såfyiña 180+) ha ha’gåfmana’ i kapasidå-måmi para u in såksiña in tene’ i masibuna korporåt na defendanto-siha ni’ guaha ti manå’dåyi na rekursu. Este na experensia ha trånslata direchu gi kåsu-siha gi hazing, månu in såsåsåyan despues yan i nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha yan få’nå’nå’ na unibetsidåt-siha ni’ manå’tsåsåkkan para u ma få’nå’nå’ i tamaño-ñiha yan influensia-ñiha contra i manpobri. Manå’å’ñao ham ti å’ñao para u in få’fåsåyi yan i dångkulo’ na players.

5. Kompasibo, Empatiku, yan Kliyente-Sentradu na Dinagiå.

In komprende na i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands ni’ manå’dira i hazing manå’såsa’on un malångu na trawma. I dinagiå-måmi empatiku, mainago’, yan parent-facing. Ti ham manmalångu o kliniku; in tatratå i familia-mu komo i kaseha na gima’. I ti manå’dada’ na 5-istrelå na riBi’u-siha gi Google My Business (4.9 na estrelå yan mas ki 250 na riBi’u) despues ha ha’gåfmana’ i kåstånt na komunikasion-måmi, responbensu, yan tutos na kåru para i kliyente-måmi. Komo un testimoñu ha estatementu, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client that’s caught in the middle of many other cases. You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” Para un familia gi Northern Mariana Islands ni’ ha såsåyiña isolådu yan malångu, este na nibet gi personal na atension i inbaluåbu.

6. Bilingual na Serbisio-siha, Ma Fulå i Español.

Si Lupe Peña ha fulå i Español, ha ånå ham para u in na’i i kumprehensibu na ligåt na serbisio-siha para i Español-åktibu na familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands sin lenguaje na barrera. Ginen i inisiåtmente na konsultasion-siha para i mumumåna’ na kåsu na komunikasion-siha, in na’segura na i kada un kliyente mankabales ha komprende i derechu-ñiha yan i ligåt na prosesu gi i kaseha na lina’lå’ (Se habla español).

7. Kontingensia na Fee na Basas: Ti Guaha Upront na Gastu-siha, Ti Guaha Riesgo.

In komprende na i finansiat na kågå gi inafa’ñålang gi hazing dångkulo. Este i rason sa’ håfa in tene’ i kåsu-siha gi hazing gi un kontingensia na fee na basas. Este ha sinifika:

• Un pågå $0 upfront para u in kårtu ham.
• Ti in få’nå’nå’ yan i pågå yanggen TI IN GANNÅ i kåsu-mu ginen un settlementu o hudgamentu.
• Este ha alinia i finansiat na interese-måmi direchu yan i iyo-mu: in motiba para u in segura i maksimum na kompensasion ni’ posible para i familia-mu. Este na fleksibilidad ha na’åtmana i agresibu, top-tier na ligåt na representasion para i Enteru na familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands, manå’dåyi gi i inmeditå na finansiat na situasion-ñiha.

8. Ti Manapårå na Dinagiå gi Hustisiå: “Outwork, Outsmart, Outfight.”

I litiga na filosofiå-ña si Lupe Peña simple: “Yan i sågå-ña si Peña un fåsåyi un abugådu ni’ manmå’fåtinas para u outwork, outsmart yan outfight i otru na så’en.” Este na agresibu na mentalidåt i kritiku gi kåsu-siha gi hazing månu i defendanto-siha despues manå’såkkan para u manå’adång, manstonewal, o manintimida i manpobri. In metikulåsa in imbestigå, in prepara i kada un detåyi, yan in ågå ti manapårå para i kliyente-måmi.

9. Dedikådu para i Sitemiku na Kåmbiå.

Pasadu i kompensasion, manpasionåt ham gi i manå’dira sitemiku na kåmbiå. I involbimentu gi gipot-måmi gi un kåsu komo i Leonel Bermudez ti åstå’isi para un manpobre; i såsågå un få’nå’nå’ na mensåhi ni’ sina ha na’che’uy i futuro na trahediå-siha. Komo si Lupe Peña ha sangan, “Yanggen este ha na’che’uy i daño para un otru na taotao, ayu i in såsåkkan para u in fana’chu.” I kåsu gi familia gi Northern Mariana Islands sina un katalistå para i kåmbiå gi Enteru na kampus-siha gi kolehu.

I tinå’o gi un ligåt na gipot para un matto gi hazing, espesiåtmente ginen åpmam, un dångkulo’ na desision. In na’i ti åstå’isi ligåt na sinana, lao i batålla-tested na fåsåyi, insaidu na sinana, yan åpmam na empatiå ni’ manesesita para u in nabigå este na emosionåtmente manå’da yan ligåtmente kumplehu na kåsu-siha. Para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands, ham i dedikådu, agresibu na ligåt na emerhensia na abugådu-siha ni’ unesesita para u in ågå para i hustisiå.

Håfa Debidiña un Achu Gi Pa’go: Aksionåbu na Giya para i Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands

Yanggen i patgon-mu gi Northern Mariana Islands o manå’tda gi tåfada ha ma dåño ginen i hazing, i momento-siha ni’ inmeditå ha susede i incidente i kritiku. Mientras i såkkan yan i inafa’ñålang sina dångkulo’, i åstå’isi yan desisibu na aksion sina sångan ha na’på’pak i såksiña gi futuro na ligåt na pleitu. Este i inmeditå na såså’en ni’ debidiña un tene’, ma desana para u na’fånnuma i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands ålagunas ginen åpmam:

Paso 1: Prioritiså i Inmeditå na Seguridå yan Medikåt na Atension.

• Na’huyong i Patgon-mu ginen i Situasion: Yanggen i patgon-mu guaha gi un ambiente månu i hazing ha susede, i inmeditå na seguridå-ña i prioritå. Å’chå’gui yan i kampus na aturidå-siha o i manå’å’i na edad-siha para u ma na’segura na ma na’huyong ginen i dåño.
• Såkkan Medikåt na Kåru INMEDITATAMENTE:
  • ÅLAGUNAS YANGGEN I INAFA’ÑÅLANG PARENCY MANMENOT: I adrenaline sina ha na’tågo’ i såfyi. Mismu komo i kondision-ña si Leonel Bermudez ha måktos sångan gi sångan na ha’åne, sångan na inafa’ñålang gi hazing, espesiåtmente i internal na inafa’ñålang komo i rhabdomyolysis o konkuså-siha, sina ti inmeditåmente manå’a.
  • DOKUMENTA I ENTERU: Na’segura na i medikåt na profesionales mankabales ha dokumentå i Enteru na inafa’ñålang, sintomå-siha, yan i estoriya gi patgon-mu gi håfa ha susede. Este ha na’huyong un obhetibu, third-party na rikotdå vital para manu na ligåt na pleitu. Sangan klaru gi doktånt-siha na i inafa’ñålang i rason gi hazing.
  • PRESERBA I EBIDENSIA: Yanggen guaha bidibu na inafa’ñålang (bruises, såga’, såfyi), chachalani klaru na fotogråfiå-siha gi sångan na ånggulo yan distånsia. Mumumåna’ manchachalani fotogråfiå-siha komo i inafa’ñålang manå’gå para u ma dokumentå i progresion. Este direchu gi linia yan i rådviså-måmi gi i bidio “Sina Un Fulå i Celulåt-mu para u Dokumentå Un Ligåt na Kåsu?”

Paso 2: Preserbå i Enteru na Ebidensia. Este i KRITIKU.

I manpobri gi hazing despues manå’dira presyon para u ma så’gå i mensåhi-siha o u manå’sågå i silencio. Este i kritiku na såfyi ni’ sina sångan ha dåño i kåsu-ñiha.

• TI MA SÅ’GÅ MANU NA COSA: I kada un text message, social media post, GroupMe chat, Snapchat konbersasion, fotogråfiå, o bidio ni’ ma relasionå gi hazing o i organizasion debidiña ma preserbå. I depensa sina ha arguå despues na yanggen guaha så’gå, malångu para i kåsu-mu.
• SCREENSHOT I ENTERU: Chachalani screenshot-siha gi Enteru na relevante na dijitåt na komunikasion-siha. Såfyiña håfmetmente.
• SÅFVI I FISIKAT NA KOSTAS: Yanggen relevante, preserbå manu na fisikat na kostas ni’ manasosiådu yan i hazing (e.g., attilu ni’ ma dåño durante i hazing, espesifiku na obheto-siha ni’ ma fulå komo patti gi humiliasion o tortura).
• IDENTIFIKA I TESTIGO-SIHA: Diskråta in nå’å i nå’ån yan i kåntak na informasion gi otru na plesa-siha, mumumåna’ na miembron-siha ni’ sina man testigo gi inafa’ñålang, o manu na bystander-siha. I testimoñu-ñiha i inbaluåbu.
• DOKUMENTA I LUGÅT: Yanggen posible yan seguru, chachalani fotogråfiå-siha o bidio-siha gi i lugåt-siha månu i hazing ha susede (e.g., fraternidåt na gima’, common rooms, basement, tåfada-campus na residensia-siha komo i gima’ gi manhanåo na miembru gi i kåsu Bermudez, park-siha, remote area-siha).

Paso 3: TI MA KOMUNIKÅ YAN I PERPETRATOR-SIHA O INSTITUSION-SIHA.

• TI MA NA’I ESTETMENTU-SIHA: Ti ma å’gå yan i lideråtgu gi fraternidåt/sororidåt, otru na miembron-siha, unibetsidåt na administradasion (e.g., Dean of Students, Greek Life Office), o i abugådu-ñiha sin ma konsultå yan un abugådu antes. I prinsipu na såsåkkan-ñiha despues i protehi i organizasion, ti i patgon-mu. Manu na cosa ni’ i patgon-mu ha sangan sina ma fulå contra i ayu.
• TI MA PIRMÅ MANU NA COSA: Ti ma firmå manu na dokumentu ni’ ma na’huyong ginen i organizasion o unibetsidåt sin ligåt na riBi’u. Este na dokumentu-siha sina ha waiver i derechu gi patgon-mu.
• TI MA POST GI SOCIAL MEDIA: Manu na cosa ni’ i patgon-mu o i familia ha post gi social media sina ma eskrupinisa ginen i depensa yan ma fulå para u ma na’huyong i kåsu. I bidio-måmi “Ti Un Post Gi Social Media Despues gi Un Aksidente” ha na’claru este na kritiku na punto. Manene’ dijitåt na silencio gi i incidente.

Paso 4: Kåntak i Attorney911 Inmeditåmente.

• Tiempo i Esensiå: I statute of limitations para i personal na inafa’ñålang na kåsu-siha gi sångan na stådu-siha, inkluyendu i Texas, i despues dos na åñu ginen i fechu gi inafa’ñålang. Para i wrongful death, dos na åñu ginen i fechu gi minalångu. I bidio-måmi “Guaha Un Statute of Limitations Gi Kåsu-mu?” ha na’claru este na kritiku na deadline. I manå’nå’da ha na’å’dmå i imbestigasion, ha ånå i ebidensia para u manhuyong, yan i testigo-siha para u manå’adång.
• Free, Kumfidentsiåt na Konsultasion: In na’i free na konsultasion-siha para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands. Sina un å’gå yan i experensia na abugådu-siha gi hazing, si Ralph Manginello yan si Lupe Peña, para u in diskuti i situasion gi patgon-mu, u ma komprende i ligåt na option-mu, yan u ma estratihå i mas åktibu na såså’en. Sina in kondakta este ginen i phone o bidio na konfrensia, ma bridge i geografiku na distånsia.
• I Experensia-måmi Matters: Guaha ham gi pa’go manlitilitigå un $10 mit na hazing na pleitu. In tungo’ i nuances gi este na kåsu-siha, i taktikå-siha ni’ i depensa ha fulå, yan håfa para u in nå’huyong un gannå na estratihå.

Paso 5: Konsiderå i Fåyå Un Ripotta, lao yan Kåusion.

• Unibetsidåt na Ripotta (Title IX/Student Conduct): Mientras i ripotta para i unibetsidåt i impottåt para i institusionåt na akontabilidåt, debidiña ma få’chu sågå yan despues yan ligåt na kånsul. I unibetsidåt-siha despues guaha i dibet para u manimbestigå sigon gi Title IX yanggen sexuat na åsåt ha susede o sigon gi i kaseha na estudiante na konduta na pulitikå-siha.
• Police na Ripotta: Depende gi i gråvidad gi hazing, sina ha såfyiña kriminåt na aktibidad (åsåt, batrri, reckles na endangerment). I fåyå un police na ripotta sina ha inisiå un kriminåt na imbestigasion, ni’ ha pråksede independientemente gi un sibil na pleitu lao sina ha na’fuerte i kåsu-mu. I portabos gi Unibetsidåt gi Houston ålagunas ha hintåt gi “posible na kriminåt na kågo'” gi kåsu-ña si Leonel Bermudez.

Para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands, i komunikasion i kritiku. Ma ekipa ham para u in såfyi i kåsu-mu remoto ginen i bidio na konsultasion-siha, kåntak gi phone, yan seguru na dijitåt na komunikasion. I distånsia ti ha såkkan i agresibu na dinagiå-måmi gi hustisiå para i patgon-mu. Fulå este na såså’en, yan å’å’gå ham sin å’adång.

Kåntak Ham: I Ligåt na Emerhensia na Hotlina-mu para i Manpobri gi Hazing gi Northern Mariana Islands

I momento ni’ un diskubre na i patgon-mu ma dåño ginen i hazing, un ligåt na emerhensia. Para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands, ayu na krisis sina ha såsåyiña partikulåtmente isolådu yan malångu ginen i geografiku na distånsia. Lao ti åstå’isi hamyu. I Attorney911 i dedikådu na ligåt na emerhensia na hotlina-mu, listo para u ma respondi yan inmeditå, agresibu, yan profesional na ayuda, manå’dåyi gi månu i unibetsidåt gi patgon-mu gi Estados Unidos.

Guaha ham gi pa’go manågå gi un $10 mit na hazing na pleitu contra i Pi Kappa Phi yan i Unibetsidåt gi Houston. Este ti åstå’isi un kåsu para ham; un mision. I komitamentu-måmi para i akontabilidåt para i manpobri gi hazing ha difini håyi ham, yan in å’pmå ayu na mismu na ti manapårå na dedikasitn para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands.

Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands: Ti Un Å’adång. Kåntak Ham Gi Pa’go Mas Taimanu.

I bibet para u såkkan i hustisiå limitådu. I ebidensia ha så’gå, i memoriå-siha manhuyong, yan i ligåt na deadline-siha (statutes of limitations) manåstå’isi. I kada un momento ha åkontå.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

I Ligåt na Emerhensia na Hotlina-måmi guaha 24/7 para i manpobri gi hazing gi Northern Mariana Islands yan i familiå-ñiha.

• Email Ham: ralph@atty911.com
• Bisita i Website-måmi: attorney911.com

Free, Kumfidentsiåt na Konsultasion: I inisiåtmente na konsultasion-mu yan ham i åbsolutamente libre. Este i oportunidad-mu para u un så’gå direchu yan i experensia na abugådu-siha gi hazing, si Ralph Manginello yan si Lupe Peña, sin manu na finansiat na obligasion. In ekungok i estoriya-mu, in evaluå i kåsu gi patgon-mu, yan in diskuti i Enteru na guaha na ligåt na option-siha espesifiku para i familia-mu gi Northern Mariana Islands.

In Få’få’chu Gi Contingency: Para i familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands ni’ guaha gi pa’go manmalångu ginen i medikåt na bilyå yan i emosionåt na distress, in na’huyong i finansiat na barrera gi hustisiå. In tene’ i kåsu-siha gi hazing gi un kontingensia na fee na basas. Este ha sinifika:

• Un pågå $0 upfront para u in retain i serbisio-måmi.
• Ham åstå’isi i pågå yanggen IN GANNÅ i kåsu-mu ginen un settlementu o un faboråbu na hudgamentu.
• In investå i tiempo-måmi yan rekursu-måmi gi kåsu gi patgon-mu, in tene’ i Enteru na finansiat na riesgo. Este ha na’segura na i kada un familia gi Northern Mariana Islands guaha i åkses para i top-tier na ligåt na representasion, manå’dåyi gi i abilidad-ñiha para u ma pågå i orå-siha na fee-siha. I bidio-måmi “Håfa i Kontingensia na Fee-siha Manåktibu” ha explica este gi detåyi.

I Distånsia Ti Un Barrera para i Hustisiå para i Familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands

Mientras i prinsipu na opisina-måmi gi Houston, Austin, yan Beaumont, in å’åsina in serbi i manpobri gi hazing gi Enteru nasion, inkluyendu ayu-siha ginen i Northern Mariana Islands:

• Bidio na Konsultasion-siha: In na’i seguru yan konbeniente na bidio na konsultasion-siha, ha ånå hamyu para u in å’gå yan i abugådu-måmi face-to-face ginen i å’långgi’ gi gima’-mu gi Northern Mariana Islands.
• Federal na Aturidå gi Kåt: I admision-måmi para i federal na kåt-siha ha ånå ham para u in gagiå i kumplehu na kåsu-siha ni’ maninvolu i nasionåt na organizasion-siha, manå’dåyi gi månu i ayu-siha o i hazing na incidente ha susede.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: Yan i abugådu-siha ni’ manlisensådu gi bå’t Texas yan New York, in såståga’ estratihiku na fleksibilidad yanggen in ba’batålla contra i nasionåt na fraternidåt-siha yan sororidåt-siha ni’ sina manåktibu ginen sångan na stådu-siha.
• In Biahe para Håmyu: Para i kritiku na deposision-siha, kliyente na miting-siha, o pleitu na prosesu-siha, i abugådu-måmi manmanagana’ para u manbiahe para i lugåt-mu. I hustisiå ti ha tungo’ geografiku na linderu, yan ti ham lokkue’.
• Bilingual na Serbisio-siha: Si Lupe Peña ha fulå i Español, ha na’segura na i Español-åktibu na familiå-siha gi Northern Mariana Islands manpåsåyi klaru yan kumprehensibu na ligåt na giya gi i preferente na lenguaje-ñiha.

Un Mensåhi para i Otru na Manpobri gi i UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

Para manu na otru na estudiante-siha ni’ man endured hazing i åddi gi si Leonel Bermudez gi kapitulo gi Unibetsidåt gi Houston Pi Kappa Phi, in tungo’ na guaha hamyu gi tåfada. Un otru na plesa ha bumåtdu gi Oktubre 15. Otru na taotao ma sagi i brutal na waterboarding yan ekstremu na fisikat na inafa’ñålang. Ti åstå’isi hamyu, yan guaha hamyu i derechu.

“Yanggen este ha na’che’uy i daño para un otru na taotao, ayu i in såsåkkan para u in fana’chu. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” — Lupe Peña

Kåntak ham. Let’s stand together yan in chachalani i Enteru na manresponsable na patti-siha para i hustisiå. I bråbet-mu sina un katalistå para u ma na’che’uy este ginen i futuro na henerasion gi estudiante-siha ginen i Northern Mariana Islands.

I ligåt na emerhensia-mu i då’åyen-måmi para i aksion. Kåntak i Attorney911 gi pa’go.

ENGLISH

The Hidden Dangers: Why Northern Mariana Islands Families Need an Aggressive Hazing Attorney Now

If you are reading this, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went away to college, full of dreams, excited to make new friends and find their place. Instead, they were tortured, abused, and perhaps even left fighting for their life. This is not the college experience anyone imagines, and for families in the Northern Mariana Islands, the emotional and physical toll of hazing can feel overwhelming, especially when distance separates you from your child. We understand what you’re going through. Your child was supposed to make friends at college. Instead, they were brutalized. We’re here to help families in the Northern Mariana Islands fight back.

We are Attorney911, and our firm is built on the principle of aggressive representation for victims in their gravest legal emergencies. For families in the Northern Mariana Islands whose children have been victimized by hazing, we represent that emergency response. Hazing is a pervasive and dangerous problem that infiltrates college campuses across America, and it can affect students from the Northern Mariana Islands attending universities anywhere in the country. The seemingly harmless “traditions” of fraternities, sororities, sports teams, and other student organizations too often cross the line into systematic abuse, causing severe physical and psychological harm, and sometimes even death.

We know this not from theory, but from active, ongoing litigation. Right now, our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, are immersed in a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi, the University of Houston, and 13 individual fraternity members for the brutal hazing of our client, Leonel Bermudez. This case, filed in November 2025, is a stark reminder that hazing is not a relic of the past; it is a present-day threat that can strike any family, including those watching their children leave the tranquil shores of the Northern Mariana Islands for distant universities.

This comprehensive guide is designed to empower Northern Mariana Islands families with the knowledge they need. We will explain how hazing impacts students, what the law says, who can be held accountable, and why our firm is uniquely positioned to secure justice for your child. The distance between the Northern Mariana Islands and our Houston headquarters is no barrier to aggressive legal action. We bring our full resources, federal court authority, and a relentless pursuit of accountability directly to your case, ensuring that your child’s voice is heard and those responsible are made to pay.

The Northern Mariana Islands Family’s Nightmare: Hazing in America

The serene islands of the Northern Mariana Islands offer a unique cultural heritage and a close-knit community. When children from this community embark on their college journey, whether to the mainland U.S. or other regional institutions, families expect them to find safe, nurturing environments where they can flourish academically and personally. They certainly don’t expect them to encounter dangers like those lurking within the secretive rituals of Greek life and other student groups.

Yet, the statistics are alarming. Hazing is a national crisis that transcends geographical boundaries and university types.

• Over half of students (55%) involved in Greek organizations admit to experiencing hazing.
• More than 40% of student athletes also report being hazed.
• Disturbingly, since the year 2000, at least one hazing-related death has occurred every single year in the United States. These are not isolated incidents; they represent a systemic failure of oversight and a culture of dangerous “traditions.”
• Tragically, 95% of students who are hazed do not report it, often due to fear of retaliation, shame, or a misplaced sense of loyalty. This silence allows the cycle of abuse to continue, putting more students at risk.

For parents in the Northern Mariana Islands, the thought of their child, far from home, enduring such abuse is unimaginable. But the truth is, the same national fraternities and sororities that operate actively at universities across America, including those to which students from the Northern Mariana Islands often matriculate, are the same organizations with histories of severe hazing incidents, injuries, and even deaths. The distance only amplifies the feeling of helplessness, but it does not diminish your child’s rights or our ability to fight for them.

The problem lies not just with individual bad actors, but with institutions. Universities and national Greek organizations often possess extensive anti-hazing policies, yet time and again, they fail to enforce them. They know hazing exists. They know it’s dangerous. They often choose to prioritize reputation and revenue over student safety – until a tragedy forces their hand. This institutional negligence is precisely what we target in our litigation, and it’s a critical component in holding all responsible parties accountable.

The Landmark Bermudez Case: Our $10 Million Fight, Right Now

The strongest evidence of our commitment and capacity to fight hazing is not a marketing brochure, but a live, ongoing legal battle. We are currently prosecuting a $10 million lawsuit, filed in November 2025, against Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, the University of Houston, its Board of Regents, multiple individual fraternity members, and their housing corporation. This case, Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, Inc., et al., is happening right now in Harris County Civil District Court, and it exemplifies our aggressive, data-driven, and relentless approach to hazing litigation.

For families in the Northern Mariana Islands, this case holds profound significance:

• This happened in Houston, but it could happen at any university across America where your child might be studying. The same national fraternities with the same dangerous cultures operate on campuses throughout the U.S.
• The specific acts of hazing in this case are horrifying, shattering any misconception that hazing is harmless. They serve as a stark warning of what “tradition” truly means today.
• Our lawsuit names every entity responsible, from the national fraternity and the university to individual members and the housing corporation. This is how you achieve true accountability, and it’s the same strategy we will deploy for your Northern Mariana Islands family.

Here is the devastating account of what happened:

Leonel Bermudez was not even officially a University of Houston student yet. He was a “ghost rush,” a prospective transfer student who had accepted a bid to join the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity on September 16, 2025. He was expecting to transfer to UH for the spring 2026 semester, eager to become part of the university community. Instead, he endured seven weeks of systematic abuse and torture that ultimately landed him in the hospital with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

Our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, laid bare the horrific details to the media:

“When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure,” Ralph Manginello recounted to ABC13. The emotional toll was clear: “He’s represented by attorneys Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena. They told ABC13 that their client is fearful of doing an interview due to retribution.”

Lupe Peña underscored our firm’s mission, stating 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.”

The Hazing Timeline Unveiled:

• September 16, 2025: Leonel Bermudez accepts a bid to Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter at the University of Houston.
• September 16 – November 3, 2025: Leonel endures a relentless campaign of hazing.
• October 13, 2025: Another pledge is hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour at a fraternity house.
• October 15, 2025: A different pledge loses consciousness and collapses during a forced workout, requiring other pledges to elevate his legs until he recovers. These were warning signs that were ignored.
• November 3, 2025: Leonel is subjected to a brutal punishment for missing an event. He is forced to perform over 100 pushups, 500 squats, and numerous other agonizing exercises like “high-volume suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and repeated 100-yard crawls while reciting the fraternity creed. He is threatened with immediate expulsion if he stops. He is pushed “past the point of physical exhaustion” until he cannot stand without help.
• November 4-5, 2025: Leonel is severely immobile and in extreme pain. His condition deteriorates.
• November 6, 2025: Leonel’s mother rushes him to a Houston hospital after observing he is “passing brown urine”—a critical sign of muscle breakdown. He is diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.
• November 6-10, 2025: Leonel spends three nights and four days hospitalized, receiving intensive medical treatment to save his kidneys and his life.
• November 14, 2025: Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters officially closes the Beta Nu Chapter. This action occurred seven days before our lawsuit was filed, a clear indication they knew of severe wrongdoing and sought to mitigate fallout.
• November 21, 2025: Attorney911 files a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court.

The Hazing Activities Exposed:

The lawsuit, widely reported by ABC13, KHOU 11, the Houston Chronicle, and Houston Public Media, described acts of abuse so egregious they shock the conscience:

• Waterboarding/Simulated Drowning: Leonel was subjected to “simulated waterboarding with a garden hose,” sprayed in the face during calisthenics, and forced to run under the threat of being waterboarded again. As Houston Public Media rightly pointed out, “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.” This is not a college prank; it is a war crime.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Pledges were forced to consume massive amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited. Then, they were compelled to continue running sprints in their distressed state and lie in their own vomit-soaked grass.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: Beyond the 500 squats and 100 pushups, Leonel endured “high-volume suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, “save-you-brother drills,” two-mile warmups before workouts, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was even struck with wooden paddles. Another pledge lost consciousness during these grueling sessions.
• Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather and carry “a fanny pack that held objects of a sexual nature” at all times. Threats of physical punishment or expulsion were constant. The hog-tying incident involving another pledge illustrates the degradation prevalent in the chapter.
• Sleep Deprivation & Exhaustion: Forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, Leonel’s exhaustion was intentionally induced.

The Medical Emergency: Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure

The extreme physical abuse inflicted on Leonel led to rhabdomyolysis, a serious condition where damaged muscle tissue releases harmful proteins into the bloodstream. This condition, if untreated, can cause acute kidney failure and even death. Leonel’s symptoms—passing brown urine, severe muscle pain, difficulty walking, and extremely high creatine kinase levels—are classic indicators of severe rhabdomyolysis. His four-day hospitalization was a critical intervention to prevent permanent kidney damage or worse. This is not some abstract injury; this is a life-altering event.

Institutional Responses: Admission of Guilt

The responses from both Pi Kappa Phi National and the University of Houston, despite their carefully crafted language, amounted to an admission of severe wrongdoing:

• Pi Kappa Phi’s Own Website (November 21, 2025): They announced the Beta Nu Chapter was closed “effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This closure, occurring seven days before our lawsuit was filed, clearly signals their awareness of the severity of the situation and their attempt at damage control. Their statement, “We look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time,” also indicates a lack of true remorse and a business-as-usual attitude toward student safety.
• University of Houston Spokesperson (Houston Public Media, November 24, 2025): A UH spokesperson said, “The events investigated are deeply disturbing and represent a clear violation of our community standards… any individual found responsible for hazing will face disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion and potential criminal charges.” This acknowledges the gravity of the hazing and suggests the university anticipates criminal charges in addition to civil liability.

Why This Case Resonates with Northern Mariana Islands Families:

This isn’t just a local Houston story; it’s a national warning. The Northern Mariana Islands may be far from Texas, but families nationwide send their children to universities where Pi Kappa Phi and other national fraternities operate. These organizations often maintain the same dangerous “traditions” across all their chapters. The University of Houston, like many institutions across the U.S., had oversight failures. Our firm’s ability to take on this multi-faceted legal challenge ensures that similar injustices against students from the Northern Mariana Islands will be met with the same aggressive, data-driven legal action.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

For Northern Mariana Islands parents, the image of college hazing might be limited to harmless pranks or mild inconveniences. The reality is far more sinister. Hazing today is often about systematic abuse, designed to break down a pledge’s will and instill absolute obedience through fear, humiliation, and physical torment. It is not “boys being boys” or “character building”; it is violence, and it can have lifelong consequences.

Our landmark Bermudez case starkly illustrates the true nature of modern hazing. The acts perpetrated against Leonel Bermudez were not isolated incidents but a calculated campaign of psychological and physical torture that spiraled into a medical emergency.

Here’s an honest look at what hazing often entails, based on our ongoing cases and national data:

• Physical Abuse and Torture: This includes brutal beatings with wooden paddles, as Leonel suffered, branding, forced calisthenics to the point of collapse (like the 500 squats and 100 pushups until kidney failure), and even “simulated waterboarding” or other forms of water torture. Pledges might be forced into extreme physical exertion, deprived of sleep, or exposed to harsh environments, risking hypothermia or heatstroke.
• Forced Consumption: This is a hallmark of many hazing incidents and often leads to the most severe injuries and deaths. Victims are compelled to consume massive amounts of alcohol, leading to alcohol poisoning, or eat large quantities of unappetizing food, or even non-food substances, often until vomiting. The Bermudez case involved forced eating of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns, followed by further physical distress in their vomit.
• Sexual Abuse and Humiliation: Hazing often includes acts of sexual degradation, such as forced nudity, sexual assault, simulated sexual acts, or the carrying of sexually explicit objects, as Leonel was forced to do with the fanny pack. This category of hazing inflicts profound and lasting psychological damage.
• Psychological Torture: This involves tactics designed to break down an individual mentally. It includes constant verbal abuse, threats, isolation, sleep deprivation, and extreme humiliation. The fear of retribution, as our client Leonel articulated, is a powerful psychological weapon wielded by hazers. These tactics can lead to severe mental health issues like PTSD, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation.
• Servitude and Control: Pledges are often treated as servants, forced to perform demeaning tasks, clean, run endless errands, or drive fraternity members at all hours, stripping them of their autonomy and basic human dignity. The enforced dress codes, study hours, and weekly “interviews” Leonel endured contributed to this total control.

The Medical Realities:

The impact of such abuse is far from minor, leaving severe and sometimes permanent injuries:

• Rhabdomyolysis and Kidney Failure: As seen in our current case, extreme physical exertion can lead to muscle breakdown and life-threatening kidney damage.
• Alcohol Poisoning: Forced binge drinking is a leading cause of hazing deaths, inflicting irreversible brain damage or organ failure.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): From falls, blows to the head, or extreme physical strain.
• Hypothermia/Heatstroke: Exposure to extreme weather conditions can cause life-threatening body temperature changes.
• Cardiac Arrest: Extreme physical exertion can trigger heart failure.
• PTSD, Anxiety, Depression: The psychological scars often last long after physical wounds heal, requiring years of therapy. One of our specific areas of expertise is recovering compensation for victims of psychological trauma.

For students from the Northern Mariana Islands, who may already be adapting to a new cultural environment, such traumatic experiences can be even more isolating and devastating. The false pretense of ‘brotherhood’ or ‘sisterhood’ disguises a system of brutality. We ensure that these realities are fully understood by juries and are accounted for in the damages we pursue.

Who Is Responsible? Holding Every Entity Accountable

When a child from the Northern Mariana Islands is harmed by hazing, it is rarely just one person or one organization at fault. Our experience, particularly in the Bermudez case, has shown us that multiple parties are typically responsible. We believe in holding every single entity accountable, from the individual perpetrators to the largest institutions that enabled the abuse. This comprehensive approach is crucial for securing maximum compensation and ensuring that such tragedies are not repeated.

Here’s a breakdown of who can be held responsible, as demonstrated by our current $10 million lawsuit:

1. The Local Chapter of the Fraternity/Sorority:

   • Why they are liable: The chapter directly plans, organizes, and implements the hazing rituals. They are the immediate perpetrators of the abuse. In the Bermudez case, the Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi was directly responsible for the waterboarding, forced exercise, and other acts of cruelty.
   • Our Approach: We seek to establish the chapter’s direct involvement in the hazing activities, often naming the chapter as an unincorporated association or through its leadership.

2. Chapter Officers and Individual Members:

   • Why they are liable: The president, pledgemaster, risk manager, and other leaders within the chapter often direct and orchestrate the hazing. Rank-and-file members who participate, aid, or even witness and fail to report hazing can also be held personally liable. In the Bermudez case, we named the fraternity president, pledgemaster, and numerous current and former members.
   • Our Approach: We pursue individuals for intentional torts like assault and battery. The Stone Foltz case precedent, where a chapter president was held personally liable for a $6.5 million judgment, proves that individuals cannot hide behind the fraternity’s shield. These individuals, often still college students or young professionals, face severe personal and financial consequences, underscoring the gravity of their actions.

3. National Fraternity or Sorority Organization:

   • Why they are liable: National organizations, with their extensive resources and nationwide presence, have a clear duty to supervise their local chapters, enforce anti-hazing policies, and ensure student safety. When they fail to do so, they are held responsible. In the Bermudez case, Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters is a central defendant because it had actual knowledge of “a hazing crisis” and a documented history of deadly hazing (Andrew Coffey’s death in 2017), yet failed to prevent Leonel’s hospitalization.
   • Our Approach: We hold national organizations accountable for negligent supervision, failure to train, and failing to enforce their own policies. We often target their insurance carriers and substantial assets. Our dual-state bar admissions (Texas and New York) and federal court authority give us a strategic advantage in pursuing these large national entities, which may have headquarters or significant operations outside of Texas.

4. Housing Corporations (Local and National):

   • Why they are liable: Many fraternities operate through separate housing corporations that own, lease, or manage the properties where hazing often occurs. These entities have premises liability for dangerous conditions on their property. The Beta Nu Housing Corporation, directly associated with Pi Kappa Phi, is a defendant in the Bermudez case.
   • Our Approach: By tracking IRS-registered Greek organizations, we pinpoint these entities, often discovering significant property holdings and insurance coverage that can contribute to a settlement.

5. The University or College:

   • Why they are liable: Universities have a non-delegable duty to protect their students, especially when hazing occurs on university-owned or controlled property. They often regulate Greek life, possess the power to intervene, and are aware of the risks. In the Bermudez case, the University of Houston and its Board of Regents are key defendants. Crucially, the hazing occurred in a “University-owned fraternity house,” giving UH undeniable premises liability. UH also had prior knowledge of student hospitalizations from hazing in 2017, yet failed to implement effective safeguards.
   • Our Approach: We target universities for negligent supervision, premise liability, and failure to protect students. Universities face immense reputational damage alongside civil penalties when hazing tragedies come to light.

6. Former Members and Their Spouses/Families:

   • Why they are liable: Sometimes hazing occurs at off-campus residences owned or controlled by former members or their families. If they allow or facilitate hazing on their property, they can also be held liable under premises liability and other negligence theories. In the Bermudez case, a former member and his spouse are named defendants because hazing sessions occurred at their private residence.
   • Our Approach: This broadens the scope of available insurance coverage, potentially including homeowner’s policies, ensuring all avenues for recovery are explored.

7. Manufacturers/Providers of Alcohol or Substances:

   • Why they are liable (Dram Shop): If a licensed establishment (bar, restaurant) or even individuals illegally provided alcohol to minors or visibly intoxicated individuals, contributing to hazing injuries, they too can be held accountable under “dram shop” laws. Our firm has specific expertise in dram shop liability.
   • Our Approach: We investigate the source of alcohol and other substances involved in hazing to identify additional responsible parties.

The Power of the “Deep Pockets”:

It is important for Northern Mariana Islands families to understand that pursuing hazing litigation is not about simply suing “broke college kids.” The ultimate goal is to hold accountable the institutions with “deep pockets”—national fraternities with multi-million dollar endowments and insurance policies, and universities with vast resources and liability coverage. These are the entities that have the power to stop hazing, and they are the ones who must bear the financial consequences when they fail. As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña possess invaluable insider knowledge of precisely how these large organizations and their insurers evaluate, defend, and settle claims, giving our clients a critical advantage.

What These Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof

The thought of taking on a national fraternity or a major university might seem daunting for a family from the Northern Mariana Islands. But history, and our ongoing litigation, proves that these battles can be won, and the financial and systemic consequences for the responsible parties can be immense. Families across America have secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in hazing cases, not just for compensation, but to force critical changes that save lives.

Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez is not an arbitrary number; it is firmly rooted in these significant precedents:

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

• Total Recovery: $10.1 Million+
• What Happened: Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old pledge at Bowling Green State University, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha hazing event in March 2021. He died from acute alcohol poisoning.
• The Accountability: The Foltz family secured $7.2 million from Pi Kappa Alpha National and its members, and an additional $2.9 million from Bowling Green State University, marking the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history. Most recently, in December 2024, a jury ordered the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, to personally pay $6.5 million in a wrongful death judgment.
• Significance for Northern Mariana Islands Families: This case directly supports our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez. It proves that both universities and national fraternities face multi-million dollar liability, and critically, that individual officers can be held personally responsible.

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

• Total Recovery: $6.1 Million Jury Verdict
• What Happened: In September 2017, 18-year-old Max Gruver died from acute alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.495) during a Phi Delta Theta hazing event at LSU, where pledges were forced to drink excessive alcohol for incorrect answers during a mock “Bible study.”
• The Accountability: His family was awarded a $6.1 million jury verdict. The criminal consequences were also severe, with one member convicted of negligent homicide and sentenced to prison. The tragedy spurred the creation of the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
• Significance for Northern Mariana Islands Families: This verdict demonstrates that juries are willing to deliver substantial awards in hazing cases. It highlights the potential for both civil and criminal accountability, and how such cases often lead to legislative reforms, signaling a shift in societal tolerance for hazing.

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

• Total Recovery: $110 Million+ (Estimated Settlement)
• What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza, a 19-year-old Penn State pledge, was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi “gauntlet” hazing ritual. With a BAC of 0.36, he fell down stairs, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited over 12 hours before calling 911. He died two days later. Security cameras inside the chapter house notoriously captured the horrific events.
• The Accountability: The Piazza family secured a confidential settlement estimated to be over $110 million from numerous parties. Eighteen fraternity members faced criminal charges, with multiple convictions for involuntary manslaughter and hazing. Pennsylvania passed the comprehensive Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law.
• Significance for Northern Mariana Islands Families: This colossal settlement underscores the price institutions pay when there is clear evidence of egregious hazing and a blatant disregard for a victim’s life. It sets a benchmark for cases with overwhelming evidence, a category we firmly believe Leonel Bermudez’s case falls into.

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

• What Happened: On November 3, 2017, Pi Kappa Phi pledge Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon at a “Big Brother Night” hazing event at Florida State University.
• The Accountability: Nine fraternity members faced criminal charges, and FSU permanently closed the chapter. His family pursued a civil lawsuit, which resulted in a confidential settlement.
• Significance for Northern Mariana Islands Families: This case is uniquely critical because Pi Kappa Phi was the fraternity involved. Andrew Coffey died on November 3, 2017. Eight years later, on November 3, 2025, Leonel Bermudez collapsed from hazing at another Pi Kappa Phi chapter. This horrific coincidence proves that Pi Kappa Phi National had actual notice of its deadly hazing problem and eight years to fix it, but failed. This pattern of negligence will be central to our arguments for punitive damages against Pi Kappa Phi.

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

• Total Recovery: $4 Million+ Settlement
• What Happened: In February 2021, Adam Oakes, a 19-year-old Delta Chi pledge at VCU, died from acute alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of Jack Daniel’s whiskey during a hazing event.
• The Accountability: His family, who initially sought $28 million, secured a settlement of over $4 million in October 2024. Six fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the family successfully advocated for Adam’s Law in Virginia, mandating anti-hazing education.
• Significance for Northern Mariana Islands Families: This recent settlement, stemming from an initial $28 million demand, reinforces that significant recoveries are achievable even if a case does not proceed to a full jury trial. It also highlights the legislative impact of these tragic cases.

The Message for the Northern Mariana Islands:

These precedents send an unequivocal message to national fraternities, universities, and their insurance carriers: Hazing is a multi-million dollar liability. The $10 million we are seeking for Leonel Bermudez reflects not only the severity of his injuries and the recklessness of the defendants but also the established value juries and institutions place on holding perpetrators accountable. For Northern Mariana Islands families, these cases offer hope and a clear path to justice.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Anti-Hazing Statutes

For Northern Mariana Islands families whose child has been hazed, understanding the legal framework is crucial. While our firm is based in Texas, the principles of anti-hazing laws and civil liability are often similar across states. Furthermore, our federal court authority means we can pursue your child’s case in federal jurisdiction, even if the hazing occurred outside of Texas. We can bring the same aggressive legal strategies that we employ under Texas law to your child’s case, wherever it took place.

Let’s look at the specific protections afforded by Texas law, which guides our strategy for hazing victims:

Texas Education Code: A Strong Legal Foundation

Texas has robust anti-hazing laws designed to protect students and hold perpetrators and institutions accountable. These statutes (Texas Education Code § 37.151-37.157) are broad and clear:

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

  • Involves physical brutality (whipping, beating, striking, branding, etc., as Leonel suffered with wooden paddles).
  • Involves sleep deprivation, exposure to elements (like being stripped in cold weather and sprayed with a hose), confinement, or calisthenics (500 squats, 100 pushups, bear crawls) that pose an unreasonable risk of harm or adversely affect physical or mental health. Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure directly fall under this.
  • Involves forced consumption of food, liquid, or alcohol that creates unreasonable risk (like the milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns Leonel was forced to eat until vomiting).
  • Our Bermudez case satisfies multiple elements of this statutory definition, showing how directly these laws apply to severe hazing.

• Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152): Hazing is a crime in Texas.

  • Engaging in hazing or soliciting it is generally a Class B Misdemeanor.
  • Hazing that causes serious bodily injury (like Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure) escalates to a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
  • Hazing that causes death is a State Jail Felony, punishable by up to two years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.
  • The University of Houston spokesperson even highlighted “potential criminal charges” in relation to Leonel’s case, indicating that the authorities take these laws seriously.

• Organizational Liability (§ 37.153): The law goes beyond individuals. An organization commits an offense if it “condones or encourages hazing” or if its officers or members commit hazing. Penalties can include fines of up to $10,000 and the denial of the right to operate on campus. This directly impacts national fraternities and local chapters.

• Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154): This is arguably the most critical protection for hazing victims. The Texas Legislature explicitly stated: “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 shuts down the common defense used by fraternities and universities: “He signed up for it,” or “He could have just left.”
  • The law recognizes that true consent cannot exist in coercive hazing environments. For a student from the Northern Mariana Islands, who may feel immense pressure to conform in a new, unfamiliar environment, this legal principle is especially vital.

• University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155): Universities are legally mandated to report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days, or face criminal penalties. This ensures accountability and creates a paper trail for us to uncover during discovery.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Charges

While criminal charges punish the perpetrators, civil lawsuits are designed to compensate the victim for their immense suffering and losses. Regardless of whether criminal charges are filed or result in convictions, Northern Mariana Islands families can pursue a range of civil claims:

1. Negligence: This is the most common civil claim. It asserts that defendants (individuals, fraternities, universities) owed a duty of care to the student, breached that duty by allowing or causing hazing, which caused identifiable damages (injuries, medical bills, psychological trauma).
2. Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university or a housing corporation (like the University-owned fraternity house in the Bermudez case), these entities can be held liable for failing to maintain safe premises and allowing dangerous conditions to exist.
3. Negligent Supervision: This applies when national fraternities fail to adequately oversee their chapters, or universities fail to properly regulate Greek life, leading to hazing incidents. Their inaction directly contributes to the harm suffered by students, including those from the Northern Mariana Islands.
4. Assault and Battery: These are intentional torts that can be brought against individual perpetrators. “Battery” is intentional harmful or offensive physical contact (e.g., paddling, striking, forced waterboarding). “Assault” is intentionally causing apprehension of harmful or offensive contact.
5. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): This claim addresses the severe psychological harm caused by hazing. It requires proving the defendants engaged in “extreme and outrageous” conduct that caused “severe emotional distress.” Waterboarding, forced humiliation, and systematic torture easily meet this high standard.

What This Means for Northern Mariana Islands Families:

These legal frameworks empower students from the Northern Mariana Islands and their families to seek comprehensive justice. Our firm meticulously understands these laws and leverages them to build unassailable cases. The fact that “consent is not a defense” means that any attempt to blame your child for their own suffering is legally invalid. We use these statutes to hold every responsible party—individuals, local chapters, national organizations, and educational institutions—fully accountable for the devastating impact of hazing.

Why Attorney911 is the Obvious Choice for Northern Mariana Islands Families

When a hazing emergency strikes, Northern Mariana Islands families need more than just a lawyer; they need an advocate who not only understands the complexities of hazing litigation but also possesses the experience, resources, and unwavering commitment to stand against powerful institutions. Attorney911 is that advocate. While our primary offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, our reach, capabilities, and dedication extend nationwide, offering unparalleled representation for hazing victims from the Northern Mariana Islands.

Here’s why Attorney911 is the clear choice for your family:

1. Unmatched Hazing Litigation Expertise: We Are in the Fight Right Now.

Many firms may say they handle personal injury. We are actively fighting a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston—a case that has garnered significant media attention across Texas. This isn’t theoretical; this is real-world, aggressive litigation happening today. We are not “someday we hope to handle hazing cases”; we are doing it, and doing it effectively, with our client, Leonel Bermudez, at the center. This hands-on, current experience means we bring an unparalleled understanding of the tactics, defenses, and evidence needed to win these complex hazing cases for Northern Mariana Islands families.

2. Deep Insider Knowledge: Former Insurance Defense Attorneys.

Both of our lead attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, began their careers working for the other side—defending insurance companies and corporations. This gives us an incredible strategic advantage.

• Ralph Manginello spent years learning the tactics insurance companies use to deny claims and minimize payouts. Now, he uses that playbook against them, knowing their strategies before they employ them.
• Lupe Peña, having worked with a national defense firm, Litchfield Cavo LLP, gained firsthand knowledge of how large corporations and their insurers operate, evaluate claims, and strategize defenses across multiple practice areas. He now applies this “insider information” to dismantle their cases and maximize recovery for our clients.
  This unique background means we anticipate their moves, understand their valuation methods, and possess the insights needed to overcome their defenses, giving Northern Mariana Islands hazing victims an essential edge.

3. Federal Court Authority and Nationwide Reach.

Hazing often involves national fraternities and universities operating across state lines. Our firm is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, granting us federal court authority. Additionally, Ralph Manginello holds dual-state bar admissions in Texas AND New York, giving us strategic flexibility when battling national fraternities that may be headquartered or operate significantly outside of Texas. This means we can pursue your child’s hazing case regardless of where the incident occurred in the United States, bringing our expertise directly to your Northern Mariana Islands family. We will travel for depositions, trials, and critical client meetings, acting as your legal emergency specialists no matter the distance.

4. Proven Track Record Against Major Corporations.

Ralph Manginello’s prior involvement in the multi-billion dollar BP Texas City Explosion litigation (which killed 15 workers and injured 180+) demonstrates our capacity to successfully take on massive corporate defendants with limitless resources. This experience translates directly to hazing cases, where we often contend with national fraternities and powerful universities that attempt to leverage their size and influence against victims. We are unafraid to go toe-to-toe with the biggest players.

5. Compassionate, Empathetic, and Client-Centered Approach.

We understand that families in the Northern Mariana Islands dealing with hazing are experiencing profound trauma. Our approach is empathetic, warm, and parent-facing. We’re not cold or clinical; we treat your family like our own. Our countless 5-star reviews on Google My Business (4.9 stars with over 250 reviews) frequently highlight our consistent communication, responsiveness, and genuine care for our clients. As one testimonial states, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client that’s caught in the middle of many other cases. You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” For a Northern Mariana Islands family feeling isolated and overwhelmed, this level of personal attention is invaluable.

6. Bilingual Services, Fluent in Spanish.

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, allowing us to provide comprehensive legal services to Spanish-speaking families in the Northern Mariana Islands without language barriers. From initial consultations to ongoing case communications, we ensure that every client fully understands their rights and the legal process in their native language (Se habla español).

7. Contingency Fee Basis: No Upfront Costs, No Risk.

We understand that the financial burden of a hazing injury is immense. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay $0 upfront to hire us.
• We don’t get paid unless we WIN your case through a settlement or verdict.
• This aligns our financial interests directly with yours: we are motivated to secure the maximum compensation possible for your family. This flexibility makes aggressive, top-tier legal representation accessible to all Northern Mariana Islands families, regardless of their immediate financial situation.

8. Relentless Pursuit of Justice: “Outwork, Outsmart, Outfight.”

Lupe Peña’s litigation philosophy is simple: “With Mr. Peña you get an attorney willing to outwork, outsmart and outfight the other side.” This aggressive mentality is crucial in hazing cases where defendants often attempt to delay, stonewall, or intimidate victims. We meticulously investigate, prepare every detail, and fight tirelessly for our clients.

9. Dedicated to Systemic Change.

Beyond compensation, we are passionate about driving systemic change. Our firm’s involvement in a case like Leonel Bermudez’s is not just about one victim; it’s about sending a powerful message that will hopefully prevent future tragedies. As Lupe Peña said, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do.” Your Northern Mariana Islands family’s case can be a catalyst for change across college campuses.

Choosing a law firm for a hazing matter, especially from a distance, is a monumental decision. We offer not just legal acumen, but the battle-tested strength, insider knowledge, and deep empathy required to navigate these emotionally charged and legally complex cases. For families in the Northern Mariana Islands, we are the dedicated, aggressive legal emergency lawyers you need to fight for justice.

What to Do Right Now: Actionable Guidance for Northern Mariana Islands Families

If your child in the Northern Mariana Islands or studying away has been the victim of hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. While the shock and confusion can be overwhelming, swift and decisive action can profoundly impact the success of any future legal claim. Here are the immediate steps you should take, designed to empower Northern Mariana Islands families even from afar:

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Attention.

• Remove Your Child from the Situation: If your child is still in an environment where hazing is occurring, their immediate safety is paramount. Work with campus authorities or trusted adults to ensure they are removed from harm’s way.
• Seek Medical Care IMMEDIATELY:
  • EVEN IF INJURIES SEEM MINOR: Adrenaline can mask pain. Just like Leonel Bermudez’s condition worsened significantly over a few days, some hazing injuries, especially internal ones like rhabdomyolysis or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
  • DOCUMENT EVERYTHING: Ensure medical professionals fully document all injuries, symptoms, and your child’s account of what happened. This creates an objective, third-party record vital for any legal claim. Tell the doctors clearly that the injuries are the result of hazing.
  • PRESERVE EVIDENCE: If there are visible injuries (bruises, cuts, burns), take clear photographs at multiple angles and distances. Continue taking photos as injuries heal to document the progression. This is directly in line with our advice in our video “Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case?”

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence. This is CRITICAL.

Hazing victims often feel pressured to delete messages or remain silent. This is a critical mistake that can severely damage their case.

• DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING: Every text message, social media post, GroupMe chat, Snapchat conversation, photo, or video related to the hazing or the organization must be preserved. The defense will always argue that if something was deleted, it was harmful to your case.
• SCREENSHOT EVERYTHING: Take screenshots of all relevant digital communications. Store them securely.
• SAVE PHYSICAL ITEMS: If relevant, preserve any physical items associated with the hazing (e.g., clothing damaged during hazing, specific objects used as part of humiliation or torture).
• IDENTIFY WITNESSES: Discreetly note the names and contact information of other pledges, current members who may have witnessed the abuse, or any bystanders. Their testimony is invaluable.
• DOCUMENT THE LOCATION: If possible and safe, take photos or videos of the locations where hazing occurred (e.g., fraternity house, common rooms, basement, off-campus residences like the former member’s home in the Bermudez case, parks, remote areas).

Step 3: Do NOT Communicate with the Perpetrators or Institutions.

• DO NOT Give Statements: Do not speak with fraternity/sorority leadership, other members, university administration (e.g., Dean of Students, Greek Life Office), or their lawyers without consulting with an attorney first. Their primary goal is often to protect the organization, not your child. Anything your child says can be used against them.
• DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the organization or university without legal review. These documents may waive your child’s rights.
• DO NOT Post on Social Media: Anything your child or family posts on social media can be scrutinized by the defense and used to undermine the case. Our video “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident” emphasizes this crucial point. Maintain digital silence regarding the incident.

Step 4: Contact Attorney911 Immediately.

• Time is of the Essence: The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in most states, including Texas, is generally two years from the date of the injury. For wrongful death, it’s two years from the date of death. Our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” highlights this critical deadline. Waiting delays investigation, allows evidence to vanish, and witnesses to forget.
• Free, Confidential Consultation: We offer free consultations to Northern Mariana Islands families. You can speak with our experienced hazing attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, to discuss your child’s situation, understand your legal options, and strategize the best course of action. We can conduct these via phone or video conference, bridging the geographical distance.
• Our Experience Matters: We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit. We know the nuances of these cases, the tactics the defense will employ, and how to build a winning strategy.

Step 5: Consider Filing a Report, but with Caution.

• University Report (Title IX/Student Conduct): While reporting to the university is important for institutional accountability, it should be done thoughtfully and ideally with legal counsel. Universities often have a duty to investigate under Title IX if sexual assault occurred or under their own student conduct policies.
• Police Report: Depending on the severity of the hazing, it may constitute criminal activity (assault, battery, reckless endangerment). Filing a police report can initiate a criminal investigation, which proceeds independently of a civil lawsuit but can strengthen your case. The University of Houston spokesperson even hinted at “potential criminal charges” in Leonel Bermudez’s case.

For Northern Mariana Islands families, communication is key. We are equipped to handle your case remotely through video consultations, phone calls, and secure digital communication. Distance will not hinder our aggressive pursuit of justice for your child. Follow these steps, and reach out to us without delay.

Contact Us: Your Legal Emergency Hotline for Northern Mariana Islands Hazing Victims

The moment you discover your child has been a victim of hazing, it’s a legal emergency. For families in the Northern Mariana Islands, that crisis can feel particularly isolating and overwhelming due to geographical distance. But you are not alone. Attorney911 is your dedicated legal emergency hotline, ready to respond with immediate, aggressive, and professional help, no matter where your child’s university is located in the United States.

We are currently fighting a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t just a case for us; it’s a mission. Our commitment to accountability for hazing victims defines who we are, and we extend that same unwavering dedication to families in the Northern Mariana Islands.

Northern Mariana Islands Families: Don’t Wait. Call Us Now.

The window for seeking justice is limited. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and legal deadlines (statutes of limitations) are strict. Every moment counts.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Our Legal Emergency Hotline is available 24/7 for Northern Mariana Islands hazing victims and their families.

• Email Us: ralph@atty911.com
• Visit Our Website: attorney911.com

Free, Confidential Consultation: Your initial consultation with us is absolutely free. This is your opportunity to speak directly with experienced hazing litigation attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, without any financial obligation. We will listen to your story, evaluate your child’s case, and discuss all available legal options specific to your family in the Northern Mariana Islands.

We Work on Contingency: For Northern Mariana Islands families already burdened by medical bills and emotional distress, we remove the financial barrier to justice. We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay $0 upfront to retain our services.
• We only get paid if we WIN your case through a settlement or a favorable verdict.
• We invest our time and resources into your child’s case, taking on all the financial risk. This ensures that every Northern Mariana Islands family has access to top-tier legal representation, regardless of their ability to pay hourly fees. Our video “How Contingency Fees Work” explains this in detail.

Distance Is No Barrier to Justice for Northern Mariana Islands Families

While our main offices are in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we proudly serve hazing victims nationwide, including those from the Northern Mariana Islands:

• Video Consultations: We offer secure and convenient video consultations, allowing you to speak with our attorneys face-to-face from the comfort of your home in the Northern Mariana Islands.
• Federal Court Authority: Our admission to federal courts allows us to pursue complex cases involving national organizations, regardless of where they or the hazing incident occurred.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: With attorneys licensed in both Texas and New York, we gain strategic flexibility when confronting national fraternities and sororities that may operate out of various states.
• We Travel to You: For critical depositions, client meetings, or trial proceedings, our attorneys are prepared to travel to your location. Justice knows no geographical bounds, and neither do we.
• Bilingual Services: Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, ensuring that Spanish-speaking families in the Northern Mariana Islands receive clear and comprehensive legal guidance in their preferred language.

A Message to Other Victims of the UH Pi Kappa Phi Hazing:

To any other students who endured hazing alongside Leonel Bermudez at the University of Houston Pi Kappa Phi chapter, we know you are out there. Another pledge collapsed on October 15. Others faced the brutal waterboarding and extreme physical abuse. You are not alone, and you have rights.

“If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” — Lupe Peña

Call us. Let’s stand together and bring all responsible parties to justice. Your bravery can prevent this from happening to the next generation of students from the Northern Mariana Islands.

Your legal emergency is our call to action. Contact Attorney911 today.

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