If you’re reading this in Northumberland County, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child was supposed to make friends at college, build connections, and embark on a new chapter. Instead, they were tortured, humiliated, and injured. We understand this nightmare. We’re here to help families in Northumberland County, and across America, fight back.

At Attorney 911, we are Legal Emergency Lawyers™, and we specialize in turning the pain and rage that comes from a hazing incident into aggressive, data-driven legal action. We believe that no family in Northumberland County should have to endure such a trauma alone, and we are committed to holding every responsible entity accountable for their actions.

This isn’t about blaming “boys being boys” or dismissing abuse as “tradition.” This is about the severe, often criminal, acts perpetrated under the guise of brotherhood or sisterhood. It’s about institutions that turn a blind eye, national organizations that fail to supervise, and individuals who engage in horrific acts with reckless disregard for human life.

We know what you’re going through, and we’re ready to stand with you. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, is at the forefront of hazing litigation in America, currently battling powerful institutions in a $10 million lawsuit. The same legal strategies, the same relentless pursuit of justice, and the same aggressive representation we deliver in Texas, we bring to hazing victims and their families in Northumberland County.

The Haunting Echoes of Abuse: The $10 Million Fight of Leonel Bermudez

The story of Leonel Bermudez is not just a case we are handling; it is the very embodiment of what Attorney 911 stands for. It’s a stark warning to every family in Northumberland County about the very real dangers lurking in Greek life, and a testament to our unwavering commitment to justice. This happened just weeks ago in Houston, Texas, but the same patterns of abuse, the same institutional failures, and the same national fraternities exist at colleges and universities that students from Northumberland County attend.

Leonel Bermudez was not even a student at the University of Houston 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. What was meant to be an exciting new beginning quickly descended into weeks of systematic abuse, psychological torture, and extreme physical hazing. This systematic torment culminated in Leonel’s hospitalization for three nights and four days with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure.

We filed a $10 million lawsuit in Harris County Civil District Court on November 21, 2025. This lawsuit doesn’t just name the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity and its local chapter; it targets the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, the fraternity’s housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity members, including the chapter president, pledgemaster, and even a former member and his spouse who hosted hazing activities at their private residence. This is what data-driven, comprehensive hazing litigation looks like: every responsible party is identified, and every avenue for accountability is pursued.

The Horrors Leonel Endured: A Glimpse into Modern Hazing

The hazing Leonel suffered was far beyond typical college pranks. It was systematic, brutal, and inhumane:

Simulated Waterboarding: Leonel was sprayed in the face with a garden hose while performing calisthenics, simulating drowning. This is a form of torture, reminiscent of interrogation techniques deemed illegal and inhumane.
Forced Consumption Until Vomiting: He was made to consume large quantities of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until he vomited. Then, he was forced to continue running sprints while physically distressed and lie in his own vomit-soaked grass.
Extreme Physical Punishment: As punishment for missing an event, Leonel was forced to perform over 100 push-ups, more than 500 squats, high-volume “suicides” (sprint drills), bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and repeated 100-yard crawls. He was made to recite the fraternity creed while being physically pushed to his limits.
Physical Beatings: The lawsuit alleges he was struck with wooden paddles.
Psychological Torture: He was forced to strip to his underwear in cold weather and carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature at all times. Another pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour.
Sleep Deprivation and Exhaustion: He was compelled to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, leading to chronic exhaustion.
Threats and Coercion: Leonel was threatened with physical punishment and immediate expulsion from the fraternity if he didn’t comply with the hazing demands.

On November 3, 2025, after suffering weeks of this abuse, Leonel was forced into a punishing exercise regimen. He became so utterly exhausted that he could not stand without help. He crawled up the stairs into his home. Over the next two days, his condition worsened. On November 6, his mother rushed him to the hospital, noting he was “passing brown urine”—a tell-tale sign of severe muscle breakdown. He was admitted and diagnosed with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, spending three nights and four days in the hospital. He now faces potential long-term kidney complications.

Institutional Knowledge and Reckless Indifference

This wasn’t an isolated incident, nor was it a surprise to the national fraternity or university:

Pi Kappa Phi’s Deadly History: Just eight years earlier, on November 3, 2017—the exact same calendar date—Andrew Coffey died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon at Pi Kappa Phi’s Florida State University chapter. Pi Kappa Phi National had eight years to address this deadly pattern within its organization, yet it appears they did nothing effective. They “knew” about this deadly risk, yet Leonel was hospitalized.
University of Houston’s Prior Incidents: In 2017, a student at the University of Houston was hospitalized with a lacerated spleen due to hazing at another fraternity on campus, Pi Kappa Alpha. The University of Houston knew hazing was a problem within its Greek system. Despite having eight years to implement stricter oversight and safeguard its students—especially when they owned the very fraternity house where Leonel was hazed—the university failed to act.

Both Pi Kappa Phi National and the University of Houston received “actual notice” that hazing was a dangerous and potentially lethal activity associated with their organizations. Their failure to implement effective changes demonstrates a “conscious indifference” to student safety that directly supports claims for punitive damages.

Media Attention and the Fight for Accountability

Our aggressive litigation strategy has already brought significant attention to this case:

ABC13 Houston: Reported on November 21-22, 2025, providing direct quotes from our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, and detailing many of the hazing activities.
KHOU 11: On November 21, 2025, named Leonel Bermudez as the plaintiff and highlighted that the hazing occurred in a “University-owned fraternity house,” establishing direct premises liability. KHOU 11 also reported allegations that the national organization failed to enforce anti-hazing rules “despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'”
Houston Chronicle: On November 22, 2025, described the specific, grueling physical exercises Leonel was forced to perform, including “high-volume suicides” and “being struck with wooden paddles.”
Houston Public Media: Confirmed the $10 million demand on November 24, 2025, and famously stated, “Waterboarding, which simulates drowning, is a form of torture.” This outlet also publicized the University of Houston’s spokesperson acknowledging the events were “deeply disturbing” and a “clear violation of our community standards,” and that “potential criminal charges” were forthcoming.
Pi Kappa Phi National’s Own Admission: Critically, Pi Kappa Phi National closed its Beta Nu Chapter on November 14, 2025—just seven days before our lawsuit was filed. Their public statement on their website admitted to “violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” This pre-lawsuit closure is a clear sign of their consciousness of guilt.

This case is new, it is ongoing in Harris County Civil District Court, and it clearly demonstrates that Attorney 911 is not theoretical. We are actively fighting right now on behalf of hazing victims. For families in Northumberland County whose children attend universities across the country, this case is a critical reminder: these dangers are real, and aggressive legal action is possible.

What Hazing Truly Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

For many parents in Northumberland County, the word “hazing” might conjure images of silly pranks, late-night chores, or perhaps some roughhousing. The truth, however, is far more sinister and dangerous. Hazing has evolved into a culture of systematic abuse, psychological torment, extreme physical degradation, and, too often, death. What our client, Leonel Bermudez, endured in Houston is a horrifying example of modern hazing, a stark reminder that these activities are nothing short of torture.

This is not about “building character” or “team bonding.” It is about power, control, and the willingness of individuals and organizations to inflict severe harm under the guise of tradition. The tactics used are designed to break down a person, to instill fear, and to force submission, often creating a lifetime of trauma, even if physical injuries heal.

Let’s be clear about what hazing truly entails, dispelling any comforting myths:

Physical Abuse That Crosses the Line into Assault and Battery

Modern hazing often involves brutal physical acts that directly lead to injury, hospitalization, and sometimes death:

Forced Physical Exertion: Pledges are often made to perform extreme exercises, well beyond their physical limits, for extended periods. This includes hundreds of push-ups and squats, “suicides,” bear crawls, and other grueling activities that can lead to rhabdomyolysis and organ failure, as in Leonel’s case.
Beatings and Paddling: The use of wooden paddles and other objects to strike pledges is a common hazing ritual, resulting in severe bruising, lacerations, and internal injuries.
Exposure to the Elements: Pledges may be forced to strip to minimal clothing and endure prolonged exposure to cold or extreme heat, risking hypothermia, frostbite, or heatstroke. Leonel was forced to strip in cold weather and then sprayed with a hose.
Branding and Burning: In some of the most barbaric hazing rituals, individuals are branded with hot irons or subjected to burns, leaving permanent scars.
Water-Based Torture: Simulated waterboarding, as endured by Leonel, or forced immersion in water can induce panic, create a sense of drowning, and is outright torture.

Psychological and Emotional Torture

The invisible scars of hazing can often be the deepest and most enduring:

Humiliation and Degradation: Pledges are commonly subjected to deeply humiliating acts, such as carrying degrading objects (like Leonel’s fanny pack with sexual items), being forced into demeaning positions, or publicly ridiculed.
Isolation and Intimidation: Victims are often isolated from trusted friends, family, and resources, fostering dependence on their abusers. They face constant threats of physical punishment, social ostracization, or expulsion from the group if they do not comply, creating an environment of intense fear.
Sleep Deprivation: Forcing pledges to stay awake for extended periods or disrupting their sleep patterns is a common tactic to break down psychological resistance, impair judgment, and make them more susceptible to control. Leonel was forced to drive members during early morning hours, exacerbating his exhaustion.
Verbal Abuse and Threats: Constant yelling, insults, and threats of violence or social ruin create a climate of fear and psychological distress.

Forced Consumption: A Deadly Ritual

Perhaps one of the most common, and deadliest, forms of hazing involves forced consumption:

Binge Drinking and Alcohol Poisoning: Pledges are often compelled to drink excessive amounts of alcohol in short periods, leading to acute alcohol poisoning, brain damage, and death. Andrew Coffey’s death from forced bourbon consumption at Pi Kappa Phi’s FSU chapter is a tragic example.
Forced Eating or Ingestion of Harmful Substances: As seen in Leonel’s case, pledges may be forced to eat large quantities of unappetizing food, or even harmful substances, until they vomit. This is a cruel form of control that can lead to choking, aspiration, and severe internal distress.

The long-term consequences of these acts extend far beyond the immediate physical injuries. Victims often suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and profound difficulty trusting others. Their academic performance can plummet, and their entire college experience can be irrevocably tainted. This is the reality of hazing that parents in Northumberland County need to understand. It’s not a game; it’s abuse that irrevocably alters lives.

Who Is Responsible: Every Entity That Participated or Allowed Hazing

When hazing occurs, it’s never just the actions of a few individuals. It involves a systemic failure of oversight, accountability, and ethical conduct. Our approach at Attorney 911 is to identify and pursue every single entity that bears responsibility, ensuring that justice is comprehensive and that powerful institutions cannot evade accountability. For a family in Northumberland County seeking justice, understanding the full scope of potential defendants is crucial.

In the Leonel Bermudez case, we have cast a wide net, naming a constellation of defendants who collectively contributed to his horrific injuries. This strategy ensures that deep pockets are held responsible, not just the college students who often bear the immediate blame.

Here is a breakdown of who can be held responsible in a hazing lawsuit:

1. The Local Chapter of the Fraternity or Sorority

The chapter itself is often the most direct perpetrator. They are the immediate organizers and implementers of the hazing rituals.

Liability Basis: Directly organizing, conducting, and participating in hazing activities. They are responsible for the actions of their members, especially when those actions are part of a sanctioned, albeit illegal, “pledge process.”
Bermudez Case Example: The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Chapter at the University of Houston directly orchestrated the abuse Leonel endured.

2. Individual Perpetrators

Every person who actively participates in, directs, encourages, or fails to intervene in hazing can be held personally liable. This includes:

Chapter Officers: The president, pledgemaster, risk manager, and other leaders who plan and oversee hazing. In Leonel’s case, the chapter president and pledgemaster were specifically named.
Active Members: Any fraternity or sorority member who actively engages in hazing acts.
Former Members and Their Spouses: Critical for establishing premises liability. In Leonel’s lawsuit, a former member and his spouse were named because significant hazing sessions occurred at their residence. This means that anyone who allows their property to be used for hazing, even if they are not active members, can be held responsible.
Liability Basis: Assault, battery, negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and criminal hazing statues (which often establish a basis for civil claims). The Stone Foltz case shows that individual chapter presidents can be held personally liable for millions.

3. The National Fraternity or Sorority Organization

These are the “deep pockets” that often have vast resources, insurance coverage, and a legal duty to oversee their chapters.

Liability Basis: Negligent supervision, failure to enforce anti-hazing policies, actual or constructive knowledge of hazing, and vicarious liability for the actions of their local chapters. National organizations often have risk management policies that they fail to enforce.
Bermudez Case Example: Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters is a primary defendant. Our lawsuit alleges they failed to enforce anti-hazing rules “despite knowledge of ‘a hazing crisis.'” Andrew Coffey’s death from hazing at their Florida State chapter eight years prior is undeniable proof that they knew the deadly risks but failed to act.

4. The University or College

Educational institutions have a profound responsibility to protect their students, and their negligence can lead to significant liability.

Liability Basis: Negligent supervision of Greek life, failure to prevent foreseeable harm, premises liability (if hazing occurs on university-owned property), and failure to investigate or respond appropriately to hazing reports. Universities often own or control fraternity housing, giving them direct power to intervene.
Bermudez Case Example: The University of Houston and the UH Board of Regents are named defendants. UH owned the fraternity house where much of the hazing took place. Furthermore, the university had actual knowledge of hazing dangers, having seen another student hospitalized from hazing in 2017. Their failure to act after that prior incident is a clear demonstration of institutional negligence.

5. Campus Officials and Administrators

Specific individuals within university administration, such as Greek life advisors, deans of students, or even university presidents, can sometimes be pulled into litigation if their direct actions or inactions contributed to the harm.

Liability Basis: Negligence in their official duties, deliberate indifference to known hazing problems, or direct cover-ups.

6. Housing Corporations

Many fraternities and sororities operate through separate housing corporations that own or manage the chapter house.

Liability Basis: Premises liability for unsafe conditions at the house, negligent maintenance, or failure to prevent illegal activities on their property.
Bermudez Case Example: The Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu Housing Corporation is a named defendant, highlighting the importance of identifying every corporate entity associated with the Greek organization.

7. Insurance Carriers

Ultimately, the goal of any personal injury lawsuit is to secure fair compensation, and this almost always comes from insurance policies.

Liability Basis: Providing coverage to any of the above defendants. National fraternities, universities, and housing corporations typically carry substantial liability insurance policies
Our Advantage: Our firm uniquely includes Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, both former insurance defense attorneys. They know precisely how insurance companies value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize payouts. This insider knowledge is a formidable advantage for our clients in Northumberland County.

For any family in Northumberland County whose child has been impacted by hazing, know this: we leave no stone unturned. We leverage our comprehensive intelligence database on Greek organizations and our deep understanding of institutional liability to ensure that every culpable party is brought to justice.

What Hazing Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof Points for Northumberland County Families

Hazing is a crime, a moral outrage, and a profound failure of institutions that are entrusted with the safety of young people. Our experience, and the compelling evidence from national precedent cases, clearly demonstrates that victims and their families can, and do, win significant compensation. These aren’t just legal victories; they are powerful statements about accountability and potent deterrents against future abuse. For families in Northumberland County, these multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements offer a beacon of hope and a pathway to justice.

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

Total Recovery: Over $10.1 Million

The Incident: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, a pledge at Bowling Green State University’s Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol during an initiation event. He was found unresponsive the next morning and died from acute alcohol poisoning.
The Outcome: The university paid $2.9 million, and the national fraternity, along with individuals, contributed to a $7.2 million settlement. In a separate, landmark judgment in December 2024, the former chapter president, Daylen Dunson, was ordered to pay the Foltz family an additional $6.5 million personally. This case stands as the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio’s history.
Relevance for Northumberland County: This case sets a direct precedent. Our $10 million demand for Leonel Bermudez is squarely in line with this outcome, proving that even with survivors of severe injury, multi-million dollar compensation is warranted. It also shows that individuals, not just institutions, are held responsible.

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

Jury Verdict: $6.1 Million

The Incident: In September 2017, Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman pledge at LSU’s Phi Delta Theta chapter, was fatally hazed. During a “Bible Study” ritual, he was forced to consume massive amounts of alcohol, including 190-proof liquor, if he answered questions incorrectly. He died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495—more than six times the legal limit.
The Outcome: A jury awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million. Furthermore, criminal convictions were secured, including negligent homicide for one fraternity member, leading to prison time. The tragedy also spurred the passage of the “Max Gruver Act” in Louisiana, making hazing a felony.
Relevance for Northumberland County: This is clear proof that juries are outraged by hazing and will not hesitate to award significant sums. It demonstrates that criminal and civil accountability can run parallel, and that hazing cases often lead to legislative change.

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

Estimated Total Recovery: Over $110 Million

The Incident: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza, a pledge at Penn State’s Beta Theta Pi fraternity, was forced to consume 18 drinks in 82 minutes as part of a ritual known as “the gauntlet.” He suffered a series of falls, including a fatal plunge down a flight of stairs, resulting in a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity members waited over 12 hours before calling for help. The horrific events were captured by the fraternity’s own security cameras.
The Outcome: While the exact civil settlement amount remains confidential, it is estimated to be over $110 million. Additionally, criminal charges were brought against 18 fraternity members, leading to multiple convictions, including involuntary manslaughter. This case resulted in the “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law” in Pennsylvania.
Relevance for Northumberland County: The sheer magnitude of this settlement highlights the potential for massive verdicts when evidence is strong and the conduct is egregious. It underscores the importance of evidence preservation (like security footage) and the devastating impact of delayed medical attention.

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

Confidential Settlement

The Incident: On November 3, 2017—exactly eight years to the day before Leonel Bermudez’s near-fatal hazing incident—Andrew Coffey died from extreme alcohol consumption during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” at Florida State University. He was forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon.
The Outcome: Nine fraternity members faced criminal charges, and the chapter was permanently closed. A civil settlement was reached with Coffey’s family, though the amount remains confidential.
Relevance for Northumberland County: This is our smoking gun. It proves that Pi Kappa Phi National had undeniable knowledge of deadly hazing within its chapters eight years before Leonel Bermudez was hospitalized. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and conscious indifference, creating a powerful argument for punitive damages in Leonel’s case.

When we tell defendants that Northumberland County families deserve $10 million or more, we are not speaking hypothetically. We are speaking from the experience of landmark cases, from the anguish of families who have walked this path before, and from the indisputable fact that juries and courts across America agree: hazing must stop, and it will be penalized with multi-million dollar consequences.

Texas Law Protects You: The Foundation of Hazing Litigation

For families in Northumberland County, understanding the legal landscape is crucial when confronting hazing. While hazing is a nationwide scourge, Texas, where Attorney 911 is based and where Leonel Bermudez’s case is being fought, has particularly robust laws designed to combat it. These laws provide a powerful framework for civil litigation, ensuring that victims have a clear path to justice.

Texas Hazing Statute: Education Code § 37.151-37.157

Texas’s anti-hazing law is comprehensive, unequivocally defining and criminalizing a wide range of hazing activities. What your child experienced in Northumberland County may very well fall under definitions similar to the ones established here, giving you strong grounds for legal action wherever you are located.

Here are the key provisions and why they matter for Northumberland County families:

Definition of Hazing (§ 37.151): Broad and Inclusive

The statute defines hazing as “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in an organization if the act:

(1) is any type of physical brutality such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity;
(2) involves sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other similar activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student;
(3) involves consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or other substance… that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student;
(4) is any activity that induces, causes, or requires the student to perform a duty or task that involves a violation of the Penal Code;
(5) involves coercing… a drug; or… an alcoholic beverage or liquor in an amount that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the student is intoxicated.”

Application to Leonel’s Case and Northumberland County:
Leonel Bermudez’s horrific experience directly violated multiple points of this definition, including physical brutality (wooden paddles, extreme calisthenics), sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, and forced food consumption. If your child in Northumberland County has suffered any form of abuse that fits these categories, whether physical or psychological, it is legally defined as hazing.

Criminal Penalties: Serious Consequences for Perpetrators (§ 37.152)

Texas law imposes criminal penalties for hazing, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies:

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

Application to Leonel’s Case and Northumberland County:
Given Leonel’s severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, which qualify as “serious bodily injury,” the individuals involved in his hazing could face Class A Misdemeanor charges. The University of Houston spokesperson has already indicated “potential criminal charges.” This demonstrates that hazing is not just a university disciplinary matter; it is a crime. Criminal charges can often strengthen a civil case by establishing clear wrongdoing.

Organizational Liability: Holding Groups Accountable (§ 37.153)

Organizations themselves can be penalized if they “condone or encourage hazing or if an officer or any combination of members, pledges, or alumni… commits or assists in the commission of hazing.” Penalties can include fines, denial of permission to operate, and forfeiture of property.

Application to Leonel’s Case and Northumberland County:
This is crucial for suing the local chapter and the national fraternity. Our lawsuit targets Pi Kappa Phi National for enabling a “hazing crisis.” For families in Northumberland County, this provision means that the fraternity or sorority itself can be held liable, not just individual members.

Consent is NOT a Defense: Unambiguous Protection for Victims (§ 37.154)

This is perhaps the most critical component of Texas hazing law:

“It is not a defense to prosecution… that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

Application to Leonel’s Case and Northumberland County:
This statute directly addresses the insidious argument often made by fraternities: “He knew what he was signing up for,” or “He could have left at any time.” The law explicitly renders this defense invalid. A student cannot legally consent to criminal acts, coercion, or activities that constitute hazing. This is a powerful shield for victims and their families, ensuring that the focus remains on the illegal acts themselves.

Institutional Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155)

Universities are mandated to report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days. Failure to do so is a Class B Misdemeanor.

Application to Leonel’s Case and Northumberland County:
This ensures institutional accountability and creates a paper trail for future litigation. Our discovery process will seek any reports the University of Houston filed related to this incident.

Civil Liability Beyond Criminal Statutes: Your Right to Full Compensation

Beyond specific hazing laws, victims and their families in Northumberland County have strong grounds for civil lawsuits based on broader legal principles:

Negligence Claims: This is the bedrock of most personal injury cases. We must prove that institutions and individuals owed a duty of care to students (to not harm them, to protect them from foreseeable harm), that they breached that duty through their actions or inactions (e.g., allowing hazing), that this breach caused the injuries, and that damages resulted.
Premises Liability: If hazing occurred on property owned or controlled by the university (as in Leonel’s case, where UH owned the fraternity house) or by a housing corporation or individual, those property owners can be held liable for allowing dangerous conditions to exist.
Negligent Supervision: This applies to national fraternities that fail to properly oversee their chapters and to universities that fail to adequately monitor Greek life organizations on their campus, especially when there’s a history of incidents.
Assault and Battery: These are intentional torts that can be brought against individual perpetrators for physical contact that causes harm or offense (e.g., beatings, forced consumption, waterboarding).
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): This claim targets conduct that is so outrageous in character, and so extreme in degree, as to go beyond all possible bounds of decency, and to be regarded as atrocious and utterly intolerable in a civilized community. Leonel’s multi-faceted torture clearly meets this standard.
Wrongful Death: In the most tragic hazing cases, families can file wrongful death lawsuits, seeking compensation for the loss of their loved one’s life, companionship, future earnings, and other damages.

The legal landscape is designed to protect students and hold perpetrators accountable. With Attorney 911, you have a team that understands these complex laws and knows how to apply them aggressively in federal or state courts to fight for your family in Northumberland County.

Why Attorney 911: Your Unfair Advantage in Hazing Litigation

When your family in Northumberland County is facing the devastating aftermath of hazing, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a strategic partner, an aggressive advocate, and an unwavering ally. At Attorney 911, we don’t just talk about fighting hazing; we’re in the trenches, actively litigating groundbreaking cases like Leonel Bermudez’s $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We offer a unique combination of experience, insight, and dedication that makes us the obvious choice for hazing victims and their families in Northumberland County and nationwide.

1. Battle-Tested Courtroom Experience: 25+ Years on Your Side

Ralph P. Manginello: Our founder and managing partner, Ralph, brings over 25 years of courtroom experience to every case. He is a seasoned trial attorney who isn’t afraid to take on the biggest defendants, a quality demonstrated in his involvement in multi-billion dollar mass tort litigation against BP following the catastrophic Texas City refinery explosion. This experience in high-stakes legal battles against massive corporations directly translates to taking on powerful national fraternities and universities.
Northumberland County Benefit: Your case in Northumberland County will be handled by attorneys with a proven track record of fierce advocacy in the courtroom, not just settlement negotiations.

2. Former Insurance Defense Insiders: We Know Their Playbook

Ralph Manginello & Lupe Peña: Both our lead attorneys are former insurance defense lawyers. They spent years working on the “other side,” defending insurance companies and corporations against personal injury claims. This is not a coincidence; it’s a strategic advantage. They know exactly how insurance adjusters and defense attorneys think, how they value claims, what tactics they use to delay or deny payouts, and where their weaknesses lie.
Northumberland County Benefit: This insider knowledge is your “unfair advantage.” We use their own strategies against them, dismantling their defenses and maximizing your recovery. We anticipate every move the university’s legal team or the fraternity’s insurance counsel will make, ensuring your case is always one step ahead.

3. Federal Court Authority & Dual-State Bar Admissions: Nationwide Reach for Northumberland County

Federal Court Admissions: Both Ralph and Lupe are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court authority means we can pursue complex hazing cases that often involve interstate negligence or federal civil rights claims, regardless of where the incident occurred in Northumberland County or across the U.S.
Dual-State Bar: Ralph is further licensed in both Texas and New York, providing a strategic edge when dealing with national fraternities and sororities often headquartered in various states.
Northumberland County Benefit: While we are headquartered in Houston, our legal capabilities extend far beyond Texas borders. We can represent families in Northumberland County, leveraging our federal court access and interstate expertise to take on national organizations wherever they are based. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

4. Direct Hazing Litigation Experience: We’re Fighting this Battle NOW

Leonel Bermudez Case: We are actively engaged in new, ongoing hazing litigation—a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical expertise; it’s real-time, hands-on experience in fighting modern hazing. Ralph Manginello has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases, directly relevant to Leonel’s injuries.
Northumberland County Benefit: Your family benefits from the most current and aggressive hazing litigation strategies. We are up-to-date on defense tactics, medical science related to hazing injuries, and the evolving legal landscape.

5. Compassionate, Client-Centered Approach: Northumberland County Families are Family

Empathetic Tone: We understand the trauma and fear that hazing brings. Our approach is empathetic, warm, and parent-facing. We speak your language, not legal jargon.
Bilingual Staff: We proudly offer “Se Habla Español” services, ensuring Spanish-speaking families in Northumberland County receive comprehensive legal support without language barriers.
Northumberland County Benefit: You are not just another case file. We treat our clients like family, providing consistent communication, support, and direct access to your legal team. We will travel to Northumberland County for depositions, meetings, or trials as needed, and offer remote consultations for your convenience.

6. No Upfront Costs: Contingency Fee Basis

Financial Accessibility: We understand that dealing with the costs of legal action can be daunting, especially after a traumatic incident. We take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis.
Northumberland County Benefit: This means you pay $0 upfront for our services. We only get paid if we win your case. This removes financial barriers, allowing any family in Northumberland County, regardless of their economic situation, to access top-tier legal representation against powerful institutions.

7. Investigative Acumen: Uncovering the Truth

Journalism Background: Ralph’s background in journalism equipped him with a keen investigative eye, a skill critical for uncovering facts and telling compelling stories in court—essential for exposing concealed hazing practices.
Data-Driven Strategy: We maintain one of the most comprehensive private databases of Greek organizations in Texas, including IRS data, EINs, legal names, and insurance structures. We know who to sue and how to find them.
Northumberland County Benefit: We don’t guess; we know. Our meticulous investigation leaves no stone unturned, whether it’s unearthing hidden corporate structures or leveraging electronic evidence to expose the truth behind hazing.

Choosing Attorney 911 for your hazing case in Northumberland County means choosing a legal team that is ready for battle, armed with unparalleled experience, insider knowledge, and a fierce dedication to justice. We are not theoretical; we are actively fighting to change the landscape of hazing accountability, and we will bring that same fight to you.

What To Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Northumberland County Families

If your child in Northumberland County has been victimized by hazing, the moments immediately following the incident are critical. While the emotional toll is immense, quick and decisive action can profoundly impact the strength of any future legal claim. Universities, fraternities, and their legal teams will immediately begin to protect their interests, and you must do the same for your child.

Here are the essential steps we advise hazing victims and their families in Northumberland County to take right now:

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Attention

Your child’s physical and mental well-being is paramount.

Remove from Danger: If your child is still in a hazardous situation, ensure they are safely removed.
Seek Medical Care: Even if injuries seem minor, or if there’s any suspicion of forced alcohol consumption, drug use, or extreme physical exertion, seek medical attention immediately.
- Go to the Emergency Room: For serious injuries (like Leonel Bermudez’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure), physical trauma, or severe intoxication. Do not delay.
- Follow-Up with Doctors: Continue all recommended medical treatments. For psychological trauma, seek counseling from a licensed therapist or psychologist.
Document Everything Medically: Ensure that all medical professionals document your child’s injuries, their cause (if known), and any symptoms they are experiencing. This medical record will form a foundational piece of evidence.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence Immediately

Evidence disappears fast. Memories fade. Organizations delete records. Every piece of information can be crucial.

Photos and Videos are Powerful:
- Injuries: Take clear, well-lit photographs of all physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, rashes, swelling) at multiple stages of healing.
- Hazing Locations: If safe to do so, photograph or video any locations where hazing occurred (fraternity house, off-campus residence, outdoor areas).
- Physical Evidence: Capture images of any items used in the hazing (e.g., paddles, alcohol bottles, degrading objects).
Digital Communications (CRITICAL):
- DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING. Text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat histories, Instagram DMs, Facebook messages, or any other digital communication can contain direct evidence of hazing, coercion, scheduling, or threats.
- SCREENSHOT EVERYTHING. Take screenshots and back up all relevant conversations immediately. This includes messages from fraternity members, pledges, or witnesses.
- Save Social Media: Preserve any social media posts or stories related to the fraternity/sorority or the hazing incident.
Documents: Collect any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or communications your child received from the organization or university.
Witness Information: Gather names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the hazing, other pledges, or individuals who may have knowledge of the events.

Step 3: Avoid Communication Traps – Talk to No One Without Legal Counsel

This is arguably the most important step to protect your child’s legal case.

DO NOT Talk to the Fraternity/Sorority: Do not communicate with chapter members, officers, or alumni. They will attempt to control the narrative, pressure your child, or gather information to use against them.
DO NOT Talk to University Administration (Alone): University officials, including Greek Life advisors or Title IX officers, represent the university’s interests, not your child’s. While reporting may be necessary, do not give formal statements or answer detailed questions without legal counsel present. Your statements can be misinterpreted or used to minimize the university’s liability.
DO NOT Sign Anything: Never sign any documents presented by the fraternity, university, or their representatives without your attorney reviewing them first. You could inadvertently waive your child’s rights.
DO NOT Post on Social Media: Anything your child posts online can and will be used against them. Even seemingly innocuous posts about being “fine” or participating in normal activities can be twisted by defense attorneys to argue that your child wasn’t truly injured or traumatized. Instruct your child to stay completely silent on social media.

Step 4: Contact Attorney 911 Immediately for a Free, Confidential Consultation

Time is of the essence in hazing cases.

Call Our Legal Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911. We are available 24/7.
Email Us: ralph@atty911.com.
Why Immediate Action Matters:
- Statute of Limitations: In most states, including Texas, personal injury and wrongful death claims have a 2-year statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you forfeit your right to sue forever.
- Evidence Disappearance: Electronic evidence can be deleted, memories fade, and physical evidence can be tampered with or lost.
- Witness Memory: The longer you wait, the less reliable witness testimony becomes.
- Institutional Cover-Ups: Universities and fraternities will move quickly to control the narrative and shield themselves from liability. You need an aggressive legal team countering those efforts from day one.
No Upfront Cost: We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay us nothing unless we win your case. This removes the financial burden, allowing you to focus on your child’s recovery.
Remote Consultations: Even if you’re in Northumberland County, we can conduct confidential video consultations, providing immediate guidance. We are willing to travel to Northumberland County for depositions, meetings, and trials when necessary.

By taking these critical steps, you empower yourself and your child. You transition from victim to claimant, ready to seek the justice and accountability your family deserves in Northumberland County. Let Attorney 911 be your first call, your immediate responder in this legal emergency.

Call to Action for Northumberland County Families: Your Fight Starts Now

Parents and students in Northumberland County, Virginia: the horrors of hazing are not confined to distant campuses. The same national fraternities and sororities that have killed and hospitalized students in Texas and across America also operate at universities attended by students from Northumberland County, such as [Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in Richmond], [Old Dominion University in Norfolk], [James Madison University in Harrisonburg], [Virginia Tech in Blacksburg], and [University of Virginia in Charlottesville], among many others. Your child could face the same dangers as Leonel Bermudez.

If your child has been subjected to hazing, abuse, or torture in any organization—whether it’s a fraternity, sorority, sports team, club, or military academy—know that you have powerful legal rights. We are Attorney 911, and we are fighting this battle right now in a $10 million lawsuit against one of the largest fraternities in the country and a major university. The aggressive tactics, the deep investigative skills, and the relentless pursuit of accountability that we bring to the Leonel Bermudez case are exactly what we will bring to your family’s fight in Northumberland County.

You are not alone. You do not have to fight this in silence.

Northumberland County Families: Call Now for a Free, Confidential Consultation

Your legal emergency demands immediate action. Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to listen to your story, evaluate your case, and provide the expert guidance you need.

📞 Legal Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911

Connect with us anytime:

Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: attorney911.com

Why Contact Us Today?

NO UPFRONT COST: We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay absolutely $0 out-of-pocket, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case. This allows every family in Northumberland County to access top-tier legal representation.
TIME IS CRITICAL: Evidence disappears, memories fade, and legal deadlines (statutes of limitations) expire. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be. Protect your child’s future.
EXPERIENCED INSIDERS: Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are former insurance defense attorneys who have spent years learning the strategies that powerful institutions use to fight claims. Now, they use that insider knowledge to fight for you.
NATIONWIDE REACH: While headquartered in Texas, our federal court authority, dual-state bar licenses, and willingness to travel mean we can represent hazing victims across America, including right here in Northumberland County. We offer convenient video consultations for families who cannot travel.
YOUR VOICE MATTERS: We understand the fear of retribution and the pressure to stay silent. We will protect your child’s privacy and aggressively advocate for their right to justice, just as we are doing for Leonel Bermudez. As Lupe Peña says, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

We don’t just talk about hazing; we’re actively fighting it. Let us fight for your family in Northumberland County.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today. Your child’s future—and the safety of countless other students destined for campuses near Northumberland County or across the nation—depends on it.