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In the heart of Ohio, where community values run deep and families cherish the well-being of their children, the threat of hazing casts a long shadow over higher education. Perhaps your child dreams of attending Ohio State University in Columbus, Bowling Green State University near Toledo, or exploring the vibrant campus life at the University of Cincinnati. While the academic pursuits and social experiences offered by these esteemed institutions are undeniable, a hidden danger sometimes lurks within the very groups designed to foster belonging and tradition.

We see the stories on the news, hear the whispers, and sometimes, tragically, experience the devastating reality. A bright, promising student leaves home for college, only to encounter a “new member program,” an “initiation ritual,” or a “team-building exercise” that crosses the line from camaraderie into cruelty. They might be forced to drink dangerous amounts of alcohol, endure degrading physical challenges, or suffer psychological torment, all under the guise of tradition or brotherhood. When these moments turn tragic, the consequences are profound, leaving families in Ohio and across the nation grappling with unimaginable loss and unanswered questions.

The Manginello Law Firm / Attorney911 understands the shock, confusion, and anger that hazing inflicts. We are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, and we provide a comprehensive, empathetic, and authoritative guide to navigating the complex landscape of hazing incidents, laws, cases, and fraternity/sorority histories. This guide is specifically tailored for families in Ohio and across the country whose children are attending or considering attending colleges and universities. We aim to equip you with the knowledge needed to protect your loved ones and seek accountability when harm occurs.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:
- Call 911 for medical emergencies
- Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
- We provide immediate help – that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™
In the first 48 hours:
- Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine”
- Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
  - Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately
  - Photograph injuries from multiple angles
  - Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects)
- Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
- Do NOT:
  - Confront the fraternity/sorority
  - Sign anything from the university or insurance company
  - Post details on public social media
  - Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence
Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:
- Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses)
- Universities move quickly to control the narrative
- We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights
- Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For families in Ohio, understanding hazing means looking beyond the outdated stereotypes of lighthearted pranks. In 2025, hazing is a dangerously evolving phenomenon that can take many forms, often cloaked in secrecy and hidden by code words. It’s a spectrum of behaviors, all illegal and harmful, designed to assert dominance and create forced loyalty at the expense of students’ well-being.

Hazing is any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, and occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students. It’s crucial to understand that even if a student seems to “agree” to participate, true consent is often impossible in an environment of power imbalance, peer pressure, and fear of exclusion.

Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing tactics are diverse, ranging from subtle psychological manipulation to overt physical violence. Here are the main categories:

Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is arguably the most dangerous and unfortunately common form of hazing, frequently leading to severe injury or death. It involves forced or coerced drinking, often through chugging challenges, “lineups” where pledges must rapidly consume alcohol, or drinking games designed to get new members intoxicated. Students might be pressured to consume unknown or mixed substances, pushing them beyond their limits and into life-threatening situations. The tragic death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University in 2021 highlights the lethal reality of forced alcohol consumption, leaving an indelible mark on Ohio families.
Physical Hazing: These acts directly endanger physical health. Examples include paddling and beatings, which can cause severe bruising, internal injuries, or worse. Pledges might be subjected to extreme calisthenics, forced “workouts,” or “smokings” far beyond normal athletic conditioning, leading to exhaustion and rhabdomyolysis—a severe muscle breakdown that can cause kidney failure. Sleep deprivation and food/water deprivation are also common, leaving students vulnerable and disoriented. Exposure to extreme cold or heat, or being placed in dangerous environments, further exacerbates the risks.
Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This category inflicts deep emotional and psychological scars, often involving profound violations of dignity. It includes forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (sometimes referred to as “roasted pig” positions or “elephant walks”), and wearing degrading costumes. Hazing can also manifest with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones, including the use of slurs or forcing individuals to perform demeaning acts that perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but incredibly damaging, psychological hazing targets a student’s mental well-being. This can involve verbal abuse, incessant yelling, threats, and deliberate isolation from friends and family. Manipulation or forced confessions create immense distress, while public shaming, whether in person, online, or in meetings, can devastate a student’s reputation and self-esteem.
Digital/Online Hazing: With the pervasive nature of technology, hazing has moved into the digital realm. This includes group chat dares, challenges, and public humiliation orchestrated via platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Discord. Students are often pressured to create or share compromising images or videos, or to respond instantly to group messages at all hours, failure resulting in punishment. This constant digital surveillance and pressure makes escape incredibly difficult.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

It’s a common misconception that hazing is solely a problem within certain fraternities. In reality, hazing permeates various campus organizations, often perpetuated by misguided notions of tradition or team-building.

Fraternities and Sororities (IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, Multicultural): While anti-hazing policies are widespread, many Greek organizations, both recognized and underground, continue dangerous practices. This includes Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic organizations, as well as National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and other multicultural Greek groups.
Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: These groups, often emphasizing discipline and tradition, can foster hazing under the guise of “training” or “earning your place.”
Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs: Organizations central to school spirit, such as cheerleaders, dance teams, and other tradition-bearers, have documented hazing incidents.
Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to swimming, baseball, and cheerleading, hazing can be prevalent, often masked as character-building or team bonding.
Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even organizations dedicated to artistic expression and performance can fall prey to hazing rituals.
Service, Cultural, and Academic Organizations: Hazing is not exclusive to social groups; even groups focused on civic engagement or intellectual pursuits can engage in harmful initiation practices.

The common threads across all these groups are social status, tradition, and secrecy. These elements create a powerful barrier, allowing harmful practices to persist even when everyone “knows” hazing is illegal and explicitly prohibited. Understanding these dynamics is the first step for Ohio parents and students to recognize and challenge hazing wherever it may occur.

Law & Liability Framework (Ohio + Federal)

For families in Ohio whose children have experienced hazing, understanding the legal framework is crucial. While Attorney911 is based in Texas, we understand that hazing situations may require navigating laws beyond state lines. Ohio has its own comprehensive anti-hazing law, Collin’s Law, which provides significant protections for students and pathways for accountability.

Ohio’s Collin’s Law: The Anti-Hazing Act

Collin’s Law, enacted in 2021, is a direct response to the tragic death of Collin Wiant, an Ohio University student who died from hazing-related nitrous oxide ingestion. This law dramatically strengthened Ohio’s anti-hazing statutes, aiming to prevent future tragedies.

Collin’s Law defines hazing broadly:
It includes any act that causes physical or mental harm, or any act that is humiliating, degrading, or risky, perpetrated by a group or individual against a student to gain initiation or membership in an organization. The law explicitly states that a victim’s consent to participate in hazing is NOT a defense.

Key provisions of Collin’s Law for Ohio families:

Increased Penalties for Hazing:
- Hazing is elevated to a second-degree misdemeanor (punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $750 fine) when an individual or organization forces or coerces a student to participate in hazing.
- Hazing becomes a third-degree felony (punishable by up to 3 years in prison and a $10,000 fine) if the hazing involves drugs or alcohol and results in serious bodily injury or death. This is a significant escalation from previous penalties, reflecting the severe consequences of such acts.
Mandatory Reporting: All public and private colleges and universities in Ohio are required to:
- Report all hazing violations to law enforcement agencies in the jurisdiction where the violation occurred.
- Prominently display an anti-hazing policy on their Ohio-based website.
- Maintain and publicly update a report of all hazing violations on their website at least once per semester. This report must include the names of groups disciplined, the date of incidents, a description of the alleged hazing, and any sanctions imposed. These public reports offer a crucial resource for Ohio families to research an organization’s history.
Hazing Education for Students and Staff: Colleges and universities must provide mandatory hazing prevention education to all students, new members, and involved staff/volunteers.
Legal Immunity for Good-Faith Reporters: Individuals who, in good faith, report hazing to law enforcement or school officials are granted immunity from criminal prosecution. This provision aims to encourage reporting without fear of reprisal.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, there are two distinct legal pathways:

Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (prosecutors) following an investigation into hazing allegations. In Ohio, criminal charges under Collin’s Law can range from misdemeanor to felony, depending on the severity of the act and the resulting harm or death. The aim of a criminal case is to punish the accused individuals or organizations (fines, jail time, probation) and deter future offenses. Hazing-related criminal charges can include the hazing offenses themselves, furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, and even manslaughter or negligent homicide in fatal cases.
Civil Cases: These are brought by the victims or their surviving families. The primary goal of a civil case is to obtain monetary compensation for the damages suffered, as well as to achieve accountability for the responsible parties. Civil claims often focus on negligence, gross negligence, wrongful death, negligent hiring or supervision, and premises liability. Unlike criminal cases, which require proof “beyond a reasonable doubt,” civil cases operate on a lower “preponderance of the evidence” standard, which can sometimes make them easier to win. It is important to note that civil and criminal cases can proceed simultaneously.

Federal Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery

Beyond Ohio’s state laws, federal regulations also impose obligations on educational institutions:

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This federal law requires colleges and universities that receive federal funding to publicly report hazing incidents, enhance hazing education, and maintain transparent data on violations. This will make it easier for Ohio families to access information about hazing incidents at schools nationwide by 2026.
Title IX: If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based discrimination, it can trigger Title IX obligations, which require schools to address and investigate such misconduct.
Clery Act: This federal law mandates that colleges and universities disclose information about crime on and around their campuses, and to maintain campus safety statistics. Hazing incidents, particularly those involving assaults, alcohol or drug offenses, can fall under Clery reporting requirements.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit in Ohio?

Identifying all potentially liable parties is critical for a successful civil hazing lawsuit in Ohio:

Individual Students: The students who actively planned, participated in, supplied the alcohol for, or helped cover up hazing acts can be held personally liable. This includes officers and “pledge educators” who orchestrated the events.
Local Organization/Chapter: The fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself, if it is a legally recognized entity, can be sued. This organizational liability extends to the local chapter or campus-specific entity.
National Organization: The larger national fraternity or sorority headquarters often exerts control over its local chapters through policies, training, and oversight. They can be held liable if they knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing within their organization or at a specific chapter, and failed to act.
University or Governing Board: The college or university, and sometimes its governing board (like the Ohio State University Board of Trustees or Board of Trustees of Bowling Green State University), can be held liable for negligence, gross negligence, or deliberate indifference if they failed to prevent or respond appropriately to hazing incidents. This liability is particularly significant when a university had prior knowledge of hazing, failed to enforce its own policies, or disregarded red flags.
Third Parties: This can include landlords or property owners of houses or event spaces where hazing occurred, particularly if they knew about the activities. Bars or alcohol providers may also be liable under “dram shop” laws if they served alcohol to minors or visibly intoxicated individuals who then engaged in or became victims of hazing.

Every hazing case is fact-specific, and the specific parties held liable will depend on the unique circumstances and the evidence presented. It’s important for Ohio families to recognize the breadth of potential accountability when their child is harmed by hazing.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

The tragic pattern of hazing incidents across the nation serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that still exist in collegiate environments. These cases form the backbone of legal arguments, demonstrating foreseeability and institutional negligence that can be directly relevant to Ohio families seeking justice.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption remains the leading cause of hazing fatalities nationwide, a reality tragically underscored by a case right here in Ohio.

Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): The death of Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old Ohio student, sent shockwaves through the state. During a “Big/Little” event, he was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol and died from alcohol poisoning. This devastating incident led to criminal convictions for multiple fraternity members, highlighting the severe personal consequences of hazing. In the civil realm, Stone’s family reached a $10 million settlement in 2023, with $7 million coming from Pi Kappa Alpha national and approximately $3 million from Bowling Green State University. This Ohio-based case directly led to the enactment of Collin’s Law, strengthening anti-hazing legislation across the state. The tragic loss of Stone is a stark reminder to Ohio families of the lethal risks involved in forced alcohol consumption.
Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In a case that garnered national attention, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after a “bid acceptance” night involving extreme alcohol consumption. Horrifying security camera footage from the Beta Theta Pi chapter house revealed Piazza’s severe falls and the unconscionable delay by fraternity brothers in calling for help. Dozens of criminal charges were filed against members, and the civil litigation against the fraternity resulted in a confidential settlement. This case was a catalyst for Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law, setting a precedent for legislative action.
Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night,” an event where pledges were given handles of hard liquor. Multiple members were prosecuted, and FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life, overhauling its anti-hazing policies in response. The Coffey family later filed a wrongful death suit, which resulted in a confidential settlement.
Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver died with a blood alcohol content of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game where wrong answers meant forced drinking. His death led to the passing of the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, a felony hazing statute, and criminal convictions for some fraternity members. His family later secured a substantial confidential settlement, showcasing the legal avenues available to victims’ families.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Hazing isn’t just about alcohol; it often involves deeply disturbing physical and psychological rituals.

Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng died from a traumatic brain injury sustained during a violent blindfolded “glass ceiling” ritual at an off-campus initiation retreat. Fraternity members delayed calling 911 for hours, leading to a landmark case where the national fraternity was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, and multiple individuals received jail sentences. This case highlights how off-campus locations are often chosen to evade detection, yet still result in severe penalties. The Pi Delta Psi national fraternity was subsequently banned from Pennsylvania for 10 years.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing extends beyond Greek life, impacting various student groups, including sports teams.

Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): A scandal unfolded as former football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over multiple years. This led to the firing of head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later filed a wrongful-termination lawsuit that was confidentially settled. Multiple players also sued the university and coaching staff, demonstrating that hazing can infiltrate even high-profile athletic programs and expose colleges to multi-million dollar liabilities.
Robert Champion – Florida A&M University Marching Band (2011): The tragic death of Robert Champion, a 26-year-old drum major, after a brutal hazing ritual involving severe physical beatings on a band bus, underscored that hazing is not limited to fraternities. Florida A&M was held liable, and Champion’s family received a $1 million settlement in 2015. This case led to comprehensive anti-hazing policy reforms across the FAMU system and established a precedent for hazing liability in non-Greek organizations.

What These Cases Mean for Ohio Families

These national tragedies, including the devastating loss of Stone Foltz right here in Ohio, reveal critical patterns: forced drinking, extreme humiliation, pervasive violence, and delayed emergency medical care are recurring themes. Despite widespread anti-hazing policies, these incidents persist, often due to a culture of secrecy and fear.

For Ohio families whose children attend, or plan to attend, universities and colleges, these cases serve as powerful illustrations of the stakes involved. They demonstrate that colleges and national organizations often face severe consequences, including multi-million dollar settlements and significant criminal penalties for individuals. When hazing leads to injury or death, litigation not only provides a path to compensation for victims and their families but also drives crucial changes in university policies and state laws, helping to prevent future harm.

Ohio Focus: Universities and Colleges

Ohio is home to a diverse array of higher education institutions, from large public universities to smaller private colleges, all attracting students from across the state and beyond. For families here, understanding the specific environments and hazing prevention efforts at these schools is paramount. While The Manginello Law Firm is based in Texas, we recognize that Ohio’s robust legal framework, particularly Collin’s Law, provides powerful avenues for accountability in hazing cases within the state.

Here, we focus on several prominent Ohio institutions, providing a snapshot of their campus cultures, anti-hazing policies, documented incidents, and how a hazing case might proceed for Ohio families.

Ohio State University – Main Campus, Columbus

Ohio State University (OSU) in Columbus is the largest university in Ohio, boasting a vast Greek life system and a wide array of student organizations. For many Ohio families, including those in the Columbus area and surrounding counties like Franklin, OSU is a top destination. An active and diverse student body implies increased exposure to group activities, making a clear hazing policy critical.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

OSU is a sprawling urban campus with a vibrant student population and a significant presence of fraternities, sororities, and various clubs. Its Greek life is one of the largest in the nation, encompassing social, professional, and cultural organizations. As a large public institution, OSU balances numerous traditions and student-led activities, which can sometimes create environments where hazing might thrive if not vigilantly managed.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Ohio State University has a comprehensive anti-hazing policy, explicitly prohibiting any activity that meets Ohio’s statutory definition of hazing. Their policy aligns with Collin’s Law, emphasizing that consent is never a defense. OSU utilizes a public reporting system, making hazing violations and their outcomes accessible to Ohio families. Students and parents can report concerns through the Office of Student Conduct, the Dean of Students office, the OSU Police Department, or through an anonymous online reporting form. OSU’s adherence to Collin’s Law also requires them to maintain and update a public online list of hazing violations.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Like many large universities, Ohio State has faced its share of hazing incidents, demonstrating that even with clear policies, vigilance is constantly required. Public records show a range of disciplinary actions against various fraternities and sororities over the years, including suspensions and probations, for violations such as forced alcohol consumption, physical activities, and verbal abuse. Some of these incidents might be found on the OSU public hazing report, as mandated by Collin’s Law, providing transparency for Ohio families.

How an OSU Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases at Ohio State University could involve investigations by the OSU Police Department, the Columbus Division of Police, and/or the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, depending on the nature and location of the incident. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in the courts with jurisdiction over Columbus or Franklin County. Potential defendants would include individual students, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially the university itself. Given OSU’s public status, the university would be subject to Collin’s Law and could face substantial liability, as demonstrated by the $3 million settlement from Bowling Green State University in the Stone Foltz case.

What OSU Students & Parents Should Do

Parents and students from Columbus and across Ohio considering OSU should:

Familiarize themselves with OSU’s anti-hazing policy and the public hazing report available on their website.
Utilize OSU’s reporting channels (Dean of Students, OSU Police, anonymous forms) if they suspect hazing.
Document any suspected hazing incidents meticulously, including screenshots of communications and photos of injuries.
Understand that speaking with an attorney experienced in Ohio hazing law, like Attorney911, can help navigate the complex legal landscape and ensure all liable parties are held accountable.

Bowling Green State University – Main Campus, Bowling Green

Bowling Green State University (BGSU), located near Toledo, Ohio, draws students from across the state, including many from the northern Ohio region. BGSU’s Greek life plays a significant role in its student culture. The university has unfortunately been at the epicenter of a tragic hazing death that directly influenced Ohio’s anti-hazing law.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

BGSU is a residential campus with a strong sense of community and an active Greek life. Its fraternities and sororities offer various social, academic, and community service opportunities, attracting a diverse student body. The university strives to promote a safe and inclusive environment, but the Stone Foltz tragedy exposed the severe risks that can exist.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Bowling Green State University has a strict anti-hazing policy, fully compliant with Collin’s Law. Their policy explicitly prohibits any form of hazing, whether on or off-campus, and makes it clear that obtaining “consent” from a new member does not make hazing permissible or legal. BGSU’s reporting channels include the Office of the Dean of Students, the BGSU Police Department, and various anonymous reporting methods. As required by Collin’s Law, BGSU maintains a publicly accessible online report listing all hazing violations and disciplinary actions.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

The most significant and tragic incident at BGSU is the 2021 death of Stone Foltz, a Pi Kappa Alpha pledge who died from alcohol poisoning during a forced drinking event. This incident led to multiple criminal convictions against fraternity members for hazing-related charges, with the chapter president, Daylen Dunson, ordered to pay $6.5 million personally to the Foltz family. Civically, the Foltz family reached a $10 million settlement ($7M from Pi Kappa Alpha national and ~$3M from BGSU), demonstrating the severe financial consequences for both national organizations and universities. This case profoundly shaped Collin’s Law and serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating potential of hazing.

How a BGSU Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases at BGSU typically involve investigations by the BGSU Police Department and/or the Bowling Green Police Division. Criminal charges would be filed in Wood County courts. Civil lawsuits, like the one filed by the Foltz family, might proceed in state or federal courts, depending on the claims. Potential defendants include individual hazers, the local chapter, the national organization (e.g., Pi Kappa Alpha), and Bowling Green State University itself. The BGSU case highlights the potential for multi-million dollar settlements and the ability of victims’ families to achieve significant accountability.

What BGSU Students & Parents Should Do

Families from Ohio considering or attending BGSU should:

Be acutely aware of the Stone Foltz tragedy and understand that dangerous hazing can occur even on campuses with strong anti-hazing policies.
Regularly check BGSU’s public hazing report for any new violations.
Utilize BGSU’s reporting channels if they suspect hazing, seeking guidance from an experienced Ohio hazing attorney, like Attorney911, to ensure reports are handled appropriately and evidence is preserved.

University of Cincinnati – Main Campus, Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati (UC) is a large public research university located in the urban setting of Cincinnati, Ohio. It offers a vibrant campus life with a sizable Greek presence and numerous student organizations, attracting students from Cincinnati, Hamilton County, and all corners of Ohio.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UC’s campus environment is dynamic, blending historical architecture with modern facilities. The university boasts a diverse population drawn to its academic programs and Division I athletics. Greek life is a notable part of the social scene, providing many students with opportunities for community and leadership. The sheer size and activity of UC means that numerous student-led organizations are active, each with its own traditions and dynamics that must be carefully monitored to prevent hazing.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Cincinnati maintains a strict anti-hazing policy that complies with Ohio’s Collin’s Law. Their policy clearly defines hazing, prohibits all forms of such behavior both on and off campus, and outlines severe consequences for violations. UC emphasizes that “consent” from a new member is not a valid defense for hazing. The university provides multiple avenues for reporting alleged hazing, including the Office of Student Conduct, the UC Police Department, and an anonymous reporting system. As per Collin’s Law, UC publishes a public online report of all hazing violations, including details of organizations disciplined and sanctions imposed.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

The University of Cincinnati has, like other major universities, faced hazing allegations over the years. These incidents, while not reaching the tragic fatality seen at BGSU, have sometimes involved forced alcohol consumption, physical stressors, or emotional abuse for which groups have been placed on probation or suspended. For example, recent years have seen fraternities placed on interim suspension for alleged violations of the university’s anti-hazing policy, emphasizing the ongoing challenges universities face in eradicating hazing. These disciplinary actions underscore UC’s commitment to addressing hazing, but also highlight the persistence of the problem.

How a UC Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases at the University of Cincinnati would typically involve investigations by the UC Police Department and/or the Cincinnati Police Department. Criminal charges, if applicable, would be pursued in Hamilton County courts. Civil lawsuits may be filed in state (Hamilton County Common Pleas Court) or federal courts, depending on the claims. Potential defendants often include the individual perpetrators, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially the University of Cincinnati as a public institution, subject to Collin’s Law.

What UC Students & Parents Should Do

Families in Cincinnati and across Ohio with ties to the University of Cincinnati should:

Review UC’s comprehensive anti-hazing policy and regularly check their public hazing report for transparency.
Educate themselves on the warning signs of hazing and maintain open communication with their student.
Report any suspicions or incidents immediately through UC’s official channels, or anonymously if preferred.
Consult with an attorney experienced in Ohio hazing law to understand their rights and explore legal options, especially if serious harm has occurred.

Miami University – Oxford

Miami University, located in Oxford, Ohio, is a prestigious public university with a rich history and a strong Greek life tradition. It attracts a significant number of Ohio students, particularly from the Cincinnati and Dayton metropolitan areas.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Often referred to as the “Mother of Fraternities” due to the founding of several prominent fraternities on its campus, Miami University boasts an extensive and influential Greek system. The university maintains a residential campus feel, emphasizing student engagement in extracurricular activities. This deep-rooted Greek tradition, while fostering camaraderie, also demands strict adherence to anti-hazing policies to prevent the misuse of power and ensure student safety.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Miami University has a rigorous anti-hazing policy that fully complies with Ohio’s Collin’s Law. Their policy explicitly defines and prohibits hazing, articulating clear and substantial penalties for individuals and organizations found in violation. Miami University stresses that hazing is illegal and that consent is not a defense. Reporting channels available to students and parents include the Office of Community Standards, the Miami University Police Department, and confidential reporting options. Miami also maintains a public online record of hazing violations to promote transparency, as mandated by Ohio law.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Over its long history, and certainly in recent years, Miami University has disciplined numerous fraternities and sororities for hazing violations. These have included forced alcohol consumption (e.g., cases of pledges requiring medical intervention), physically demanding activities, and psychologically manipulative behaviors. The university has often responded with suspensions, extended probations, and mandatory re-education programs for chapters and individual members found responsible. These incidents, detailed in the public hazing list, demonstrate the ongoing challenge of enforcing anti-hazing policies within a campus that values long-standing traditions, and how universities nationwide continue to combat these issues.

How a Miami University Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing cases at Miami University would typically involve investigations by the Miami University Police Department and/or the Oxford Police Department. Criminal charges, if pursued, would be filed in Butler County courts. Civil actions by victims or their families could be brought in state (Butler County Common Pleas Court) or federal courts. Given Miami University’s public status, it falls under the purview of Collin’s Law, meaning the university could be a defendant in a civil suit, alongside the individuals and the local and national organizations involved.

What Miami University Students & Parents Should Do

Ohio families with connections to Miami University should:

Be aware of the historical context of Greek life at Miami and the university’s strong stance against hazing.
Actively review the university’s hazing policies and transparency reports.
Encourage open dialogue with their students about their experiences within campus organizations.
In the event of suspected hazing, promptly report concerns through Miami’s official channels and seek confidential legal counsel from an Ohio hazing attorney to protect their rights and explore options for accountability.

Kent State University – Main Campus, Kent

Kent State University, situated in Kent, Ohio, serves a substantial student body primarily from northeast Ohio, including Portage County and surrounding areas. It offers a diverse and engaging campus environment, supported by active student organizations and Greek life.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Kent State is a large public university known for its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and engaged learning. The campus fosters a vibrant student culture with numerous clubs, athletic teams, and Greek organizations contributing to the social fabric. Like many institutions of its size, balancing tradition with safety is a primary concern in its Greek and student organization life. The university has a profound history linked to student activism, which underscores its awareness of student rights and safety.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Kent State University has robust anti-hazing policies that align with Ohio’s Collin’s Law. These policies explicitly prohibit hazing in any form, detailing examples ranging from forced consumption of substances to physical abuse and mental humiliation, whether on or off university property. Kent State emphasizes that consent cannot be used as a defense for hazing. The university offers multiple reporting avenues, including the Office of Student Conduct, the Kent State University Police Department, and confidential online reporting forms. The university also maintains a public hazing report on its website, providing transparency regarding violations and accountability measures taken.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

Kent State University has taken disciplinary action against various student organizations and Greek chapters for hazing violations. These incidents, often involving forced alcohol consumption, sleep deprivation, and degrading activities, are logged in the university’s public hazing report. Responses have included suspensions, cease and desist orders, and educational sanctions for student groups and individual members. These efforts demonstrate Kent State’s enforcement of Collin’s Law and its commitment to student safety, even as hazing continues to be an issue requiring ongoing vigilance.

How a Kent State Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing incidents at Kent State would typically be investigated by the Kent State University Police Department and/or the Kent Police Department. Criminal charges would be filed in Portage County courts. Civil lawsuits can be brought in state (Portage County Common Pleas Court) or federal courts, naming individual perpetrators, local chapters, national organizations, and Kent State University as defendants. As a public institution, Kent State is subject to Collin’s Law, making it accountable under Ohio’s stringent anti-hazing provisions.

What Kent State Students & Parents Should Do

Ohio families connected to Kent State University should:

Thoroughly review Kent State’s anti-hazing policy and the public hazing report on their website.
Discuss the dangers of hazing with their students and encourage them to report any concerning activities.
Should hazing be suspected or experienced, utilize Kent State’s reporting system, knowing that Collin’s Law provides protections for reporters.
Seek legal advice from an Ohio hazing attorney to understand their legal rights and options for pursuing accountability and compensation if a student is harmed.

University of Cincinnati – Blue Ash College, Blue Ash

University of Cincinnati – Blue Ash College (UCBA) offers a strong academic environment in Blue Ash, a suburb of Cincinnati, Ohio. It typically serves students from Hamilton County and the surrounding areas, many of whom are commuters but may also engage in student organizations.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UC Blue Ash provides a more intimate campus experience compared to its larger main campus counterpart, focusing on associate and baccalaureate degrees. While it has limited Greek life directly on its campus, students often connect with organizations through the main UC campus or participate in various academic and social clubs. The campus prides itself on fostering a supportive and close-knit community, which ideally should make hazing less prevalent, but no institution is immune.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

UC Blue Ash adheres to the comprehensive anti-hazing policies of the University of Cincinnati system, which are fully compliant with Ohio’s Collin’s Law. These policies unequivocally prohibit all forms of hazing both on and off campus, clearly stating that consent is not a defense. Students are encouraged to report hazing through the Office of Student Affairs at UCBA, the UC Police Department, or via anonymous reporting mechanisms shared across the UC system. Like all Ohio institutions, UC Blue Ash’s parent institution, the University of Cincinnati, is mandated to publish all hazing violations on its public website.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

While specific hazing incidents directly tied to UC Blue Ash might be fewer or more localized due to its smaller size and commuter student body, the broader University of Cincinnati system has documented violations. Any student engaging in hazing as part of a UC-affiliated organization, regardless of which campus they primarily attend or whether the activity occurred on the main campus or a regional campus, would fall under the same disciplinary structure.

How a UC Blue Ash Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing incidents involving UCBA students or organizations would be investigated by the UC Police Department and/or local police in Blue Ash or Hamilton County. Criminal charges would be filed in Hamilton County courts. Civil lawsuits could be filed in state or federal courts, naming individual perpetrators, local chapters (if affiliated with a main campus organization), national organizations, and the University of Cincinnati system as potential defendants, subject to Collin’s Law.

What UC Blue Ash Students & Parents Should Do

Ohio families connected to UC Blue Ash should:

Become familiar with the University of Cincinnati’s anti-hazing policies and its public hazing reports, as these apply across the system.
Encourage open communication about any pressures or concerning activities within student groups.
Report suspected hazing immediately through official UC channels.
Consult with an Ohio hazing attorney, like Attorney911, to understand their legal position and ensure accountability.

University of Dayton – Dayton

The University of Dayton (UD) is a private Catholic university in Dayton, Ohio, known for its strong community and dedication to student success. It attracts students from across Ohio, particularly from the Dayton metropolitan area and Montgomery County.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UD fosters a close-knit, residential community rooted in Catholic and Marianist traditions. It offers a vibrant campus life with a strong emphasis on service, community engagement, and a dynamic Greek life. Despite its private status, UD’s commitment to community and well-being means a proactive stance against hazing is essential.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Dayton has a comprehensive anti-hazing policy that is fully compliant with Ohio’s Collin’s Law. Their policy clearly defines and strictly prohibits hazing activities, which include physical abuse, forced alcohol consumption, psychological torment, and public humiliation, whether on or off campus. UD emphasizes that consent from a new member does not make hazing acceptable or lawful. The university provides various reporting mechanisms through the Dean of Students Office, the UD Police Department, and an anonymous online reporting option. As required by Ohio law, UD maintains a publicly accessible online report of hazing violations and the sanctions imposed.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

The University of Dayton has, in recent years, taken disciplinary action against Greek organizations for hazing violations based on its public hazing reports. These incidents have sometimes involved activities such as forced calisthenics, forced or implied alcohol consumption, and other degrading acts that violate both university policy and Ohio law. UD’s responses have included suspensions, probations, and mandatory educational interventions for individuals and groups involved, underscoring their commitment to upholding anti-hazing standards.

How a UD Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing incidents at the University of Dayton would typically be investigated by the UD Police Department and/or the Dayton Police Department. Criminal charges, if warranted, would be filed in Montgomery County courts. Civil lawsuits by victims or their families could be brought in state (Montgomery County Common Pleas Court) or federal courts. As a private institution, UD would generally not benefit from the sovereign immunity protections available to public universities, potentially simplifying certain aspects of litigation against the university itself, alongside individual perpetrators, local chapters, and national organizations. The Manginello Law Firm, with its expertise in navigating complex institutional challenges, is well-equipped to handle such cases.

What UD Students & Parents Should Do

Families from Dayton and across Ohio with students at Miami University should:

Thoroughly review UD’s anti-hazing policy and check its publicly posted hazing violations report.
Encourage open conversations with their students about their experiences within campus groups.
Report suspected hazing immediately through UD’s official channels, or anonymously if preferred, knowing that Collin’s Law protects good-faith reporters.
Seek legal counsel from an Ohio hazing attorney to understand their specific rights and options for pursuing accountability and compensation if their student has been harmed.

John Carroll University – University Heights

John Carroll University (JCU), located in University Heights, Ohio (within the Greater Cleveland area), is a private Jesuit Catholic university that serves a significant population of students from Ohio, particularly from Cuyahoga County and the surrounding communities.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

JCU prides itself on a close-knit community, grounded in Jesuit values of service, intellectual rigor, and social justice. It offers a vibrant student life inclusive of various clubs, athletic teams, and Greek organizations. The university’s emphasis on cura personalis (care for the whole person) and ethical conduct should naturally extend to a strong stance against hazing, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all students.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

John Carroll University has a comprehensive anti-hazing policy that fully complies with Ohio’s Collin’s Law. Their policy clearly defines and strictly prohibits all hazing activities, whether on or off campus, emphasizing that consent is never a defense. JCU utilizes several channels for reporting hazing, including the Office of the Dean of Students, the JCU Police Department, and an anonymous online reporting option. As required by Ohio law, JCU also publishes a public online list of hazing violations and the disciplinary actions taken against individuals and organizations.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

John Carroll University has, like other universities, had to address hazing violations within its student organizations. These incidents, as detailed in the university’s public hazing reports, have on occasion involved allegations such as forced calisthenics, excessive time commitments, and other activities deemed to be demeaning or physically harmful. JCU has responded by imposing sanctions ranging from probations and social restrictions to suspensions for organizations and disciplinary actions for individual students, demonstrating its commitment to enforcing anti-hazing policies and upholding its community standards.

How a JCU Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing incidents at John Carroll University would typically be investigated by the JCU Police Department and/or the University Heights Police Department. Criminal charges, if applicable, would be filed in Cuyahoga County courts. Civil lawsuits can be brought in state (Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas) or federal courts. As a private institution, JCU would generally not have sovereign immunity, meaning it could be a direct defendant in a civil suit, alongside individual perpetrators, local chapters, and national organizations. An Ohio hazing attorney, like Attorney911, can provide invaluable guidance in these scenarios.

What JCU Students & Parents Should Do

Ohio families with students at John Carroll University should:

Familiarize themselves with JCU’s anti-hazing policy and its publicly available hazing report.
Encourage their students to maintain open communication about their experiences in campus organizations and to be aware of the signs of hazing.
Report any suspected hazing immediately through JCU’s official channels.
Seek legal advice from an Ohio hazing attorney to understand their rights and options for pursuing accountability and compensation if their student has been harmed.

University of Toledo – Toledo

The University of Toledo (UT) is a major public research university located in Toledo, Ohio, attracting students primarily from northwest Ohio, including Lucas County and the broader region.

Campus & Culture Snapshot

UT offers a comprehensive academic experience with a diverse student body and a commitment to research and engagement. Its campus life is active, featuring a variety of student organizations, athletic programs, and Greek fraternities and sororities. As a large public institution, UT works to foster an inclusive and safe environment, but must remain vigilant against hazing in its many forms.

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Toledo maintains a robust anti-hazing policy that is fully compliant with Ohio’s Collin’s Law. This policy strictly prohibits any practice that a reasonable person would consider humiliating, degrading, unsafe, or that endangers health, regardless of a new member’s consent. UT provides several reporting avenues through the Office of Student Conduct, the UT Police Department, and anonymous online reporting options. In accordance with Collin’s Law, the University of Toledo publishes a comprehensive list of all hazing violations and accompanying sanctions on its public website.

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

The University of Toledo has, in past years, taken disciplinary action against a range of student groups, including Greek organizations, for hazing violations detailed in its public reports. These incidents have included forced alcohol consumption, physical activities, and other behaviors that violate the university’s anti-hazing policy and Ohio law. UT’s responses have typically involved suspensions, probations with specific restrictions, and mandated educational programs for the involved organizations and individuals. These measures demonstrate the university’s commitment to enforcing Collin’s Law and ensuring student safety.

How a UT Hazing Case Might Proceed

Hazing incidents at the University of Toledo would typically be investigated by the UT Police Department and/or the Toledo Police Department. Criminal charges, if applicable under Collin’s Law, would be filed in Lucas County courts. Civil lawsuits by victims or their families could be pursued in state (Lucas County Court of Common Pleas) or federal courts, naming individual perpetrators, local chapters, national organizations, and the University of Toledo as potential defendants. As a public institution, UT is directly subject to the provisions of Collin’s Law, which can facilitate accountability in such cases.

What UT Students & Parents Should Do

Ohio families connected to the University of Toledo should:

Review UT’s comprehensive anti-hazing policy and consult its publicly available hazing report.
Engage in open discussions with their students about the importance of reporting hazing and understanding their rights.
Report suspected hazing immediately through UT’s official channels, leveraging the protections for good-faith reporters under Collin’s Law.
Seek legal advice from an Ohio hazing attorney to understand their legal rights and options for pursuing justice if a student is harmed.

University of Dayton – Main Campus, Dayton

Campus & Culture Snapshot

Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Selected Documented Incidents & Responses

The University of Dayton has, in recent years, taken disciplinary action against Greek organizations for hazing violations based on its public hazing reports. These incidents have sometimes involved activities such as forced calisthenics, excessive time commitments, and other degrading acts that violate both university policy and Ohio law. UD’s responses have included suspensions, probations, and mandatory educational interventions for individuals and groups involved, underscoring their commitment to upholding anti-hazing standards.

How a UD Hazing Case Might Proceed

What UD Students & Parents Should Do

Ohio families from Dayton and across the state with students at the University of Dayton should:

Thoroughly review UD’s anti-hazing policy and check its publicly posted hazing violations report.
Encourage open conversations with their students about their experiences within campus groups.
Report suspected hazing immediately through UD’s official channels, or anonymously if preferred, knowing that Collin’s Law protects good-faith reporters.
Seek legal counsel from an Ohio hazing attorney to understand their specific rights and options for pursuing accountability and compensation if their student has been harmed.

Complete Ohio University Directory

Attorney911 tracks every higher education institution in Ohio. For reference:

Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences | Canton, Stark County | Private Non-Profit
Baldwin Wallace University | Berea, Cuyahoga County | Private Non-Profit
Bluffton University | Bluffton, Allen County | Private Non-Profit
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus | Bowling Green, Wood County | Public University
Bowling Green State University-Firelands | Huron, Erie County | Public University
Bryant & Stratton College-Parma | Parma, Cuyahoga County | Private Non-Profit
Capital University | Columbus, Franklin County | Private Non-Profit
Case Western Reserve University | Cleveland, Cuyahoga County | Private Non-Profit
Cedarville University | Cedarville, Greene County | Private Non-Profit
Central Ohio Technical College | Newark, Licking County | Public University
Central State University | Wilberforce, Greene County | Public University
Chamberlain University-Ohio | Columbus, Franklin County | Private For-Profit
Clark State College | Springfield, Clark County | Public University
Cleveland Institute of Art | Cleveland, Cuyahoga County | Private Non-Profit
Cleveland Institute of Music | Cleveland, Cuyahoga County | Private Non-Profit
Cleveland State University | Cleveland, Cuyahoga County | Public University
Columbus College of Art and Design | Columbus, Franklin County | Private Non-Profit
DeVry University-Ohio | Columbus, Franklin County | Private For-Profit
Defiance College | Defiance, Defiance County | Private Non-Profit
Denison University | Granville, Licking County | Private Non-Profit
Felbry College | Columbus, Franklin County | Private For-Profit
Franciscan University of Steubenville | Steubenville, Jefferson County | Private Non-Profit
Franklin University | Columbus, Franklin County | Private Non-Profit
Galen College of Nursing-Cincinnati | Cincinnati, Hamilton County | Private For-Profit
Gods Bible School and College | Cincinnati, Hamilton County | Private Non-Profit
Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science | Cincinnati, Hamilton County | Private Non-Profit
Heidelberg University | Tiffin, Seneca County | Private Non-Profit
Herzing University-Akron | Akron, Summit County | Private Non-Profit
Hiram College | Hiram, Portage County | Private Non-Profit
John Carroll University | University Heights, Cuyahoga County | Private Non-Profit
Kent State University-Main Campus | Kent, Portage County | Public University
Kent State University at Ashtabula | Ashtabula, Ashtabula County | Public University
Kent State University at East Liverpool | East Liverpool, Columbiana County | Public University
Kent State University at Geauga | Burton, Geauga County | Public University
Kent State University at Salem | Salem, Columbiana County | Public University
Kent State University at Stark | North Canton, Stark County | Public University
Kent State University at Trumbull | Warren, Trumbull County | Public University
Kettering College | Kettering, Montgomery County | Private Non-Profit
Kenyon College | Gambier, Knox County | Private Non-Profit
Lake Erie College | Painesville, Lake County | Private Non-Profit
Lakewood University | Cleveland Heights, Cuyahoga County | Private For-Profit
Lourdes University | Sylvania, Lucas County | Private Non-Profit
Malone University | Canton, Stark County | Private Non-Profit
Marietta College | Marietta, Washington County | Private Non-Profit
Mercy College of Ohio | Toledo, Lucas County | Private Non-Profit
Methodist Theological School in Ohio | Delaware, Delaware County | Private Non-Profit
Miami University-Hamilton | Hamilton, Butler County | Public University
Miami University-Main Campus | Oxford, Butler County | Public University
Miami University-Middletown | Middletown, Butler County | Public University
Mount Carmel College of Nursing | Columbus, Franklin County | Private Non-Profit
Mount Vernon Nazarene University | Mount Vernon, Knox County | Private Non-Profit
Muskingum University | New Concord, Muskingum County | Private Non-Profit
Northeast Ohio Medical University | Rootstown, Portage County | Public University
North Central State College | Mansfield, Richland County | Public University
Notre Dame College | Cleveland, Cuyahoga County | Private Non-Profit
Ohio Christian University | Circleville, Pickaway County | Private Non-Profit
Ohio Dominican University | Columbus, Franklin County | Private Non-Profit
Ohio Northern University | Ada, Hardin County | Private Non-Profit
Ohio State University-Main Campus | Columbus, Franklin County | Public University
Ohio State University-Lima Campus | Lima, Allen County | Public University
Ohio State University-Mansfield Campus | Mansfield, Richland County | Public University
Ohio State University-Marion Campus | Marion, Marion County | Public University
Ohio State University-Newark Campus | Newark, Licking County | Public University
Ohio University-Main Campus | Athens, Athens County | Public University
Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus | Chillicothe, Ross County | Public University
Ohio University-Eastern Campus | Saint Clairsville, Belmont County | Public University
Ohio University-Lancaster Campus | Lancaster, Fairfield County | Public University
Ohio University-Southern Campus | Ironton, Lawrence County | Public University
Ohio University-Zanesville Campus | Zanesville, Muskingum County | Public University
Ohio Wesleyan University | Delaware, Delaware County | Private Non-Profit
Otterbein University | Westerville, Franklin County | Private Non-Profit
Pontifical College Josephinum | Columbus, Franklin County | Private Non-Profit
Professional Skills Institute | Maumee, Lucas County | Private For-Profit
Rabbinical College Telshe | Wickliffe, Lake County | Private Non-Profit
Shawnee State University | Portsmouth, Scioto County | Public University
Sinclair Community College | Dayton, Montgomery County | Public University
The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences | Cincinnati, Hamilton County | Private Non-Profit
The College of Wooster | Wooster, Wayne County | Private Non-Profit
The Modern College of Design | Kettering, Montgomery County | Private For-Profit
The North Coast College | Lakewood, Cuyahoga County | Private For-Profit
The University of Findlay | Findlay, Hancock County | Private Non-Profit
Tiffin University | Tiffin, Seneca County | Private Non-Profit
Union Institute & University | Cincinnati, Hamilton County | Private Non-Profit
United Theological Seminary | Dayton, Montgomery County | Private Non-Profit
University of Akron Main Campus | Akron, Summit County | Public University
University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash College | Blue Ash, Hamilton County | Public University
University of Cincinnati-Clermont College | Batavia, Clermont County | Public University
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | Cincinnati, Hamilton County | Public University
University of Northwestern Ohio | Lima, Allen County | Private Non-Profit
University of Rio Grande | Rio Grande, Gallia County | Private Non-Profit
University of Toledo | Toledo, Lucas County | Public University
Ursuline College | Pepper Pike, Cuyahoga County | Private Non-Profit
Valor Christian College | Canal Winchester, Franklin County | Private Non-Profit
Walsh University | North Canton, Stark County | Private Non-Profit
Wilberforce University | Wilberforce, Greene County | Private Non-Profit
Wilmington College | Wilmington, Clinton County | Private Non-Profit
Winebrenner Theological Seminary | Findlay, Hancock County | Private Non-Profit
Wittenberg University | Springfield, Clark County | Private Non-Profit
Wright State University-Lake Campus | Celina, Mercer County | Public University
Wright State University-Main Campus | Dayton, Greene County | Public University
Xavier University | Cincinnati, Hamilton County | Private Non-Profit
Youngstown State University | Youngstown, Mahoning County | Public University
Zane State College | Zanesville, Muskingum County | Public University

Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific + National Histories

The Greek system in Ohio, like across the nation, plays a significant role in university life, particularly at institutions like Ohio State, Bowling Green State, and Miami University. For Ohio families, understanding the history and patterns of hazing within these national organizations is crucial. When a local chapter in Columbus, Bowling Green, or Cincinnati commits hazing, it often reflects not just the actions of local members, but also systemic issues within broader national organizations.

Why National Histories Matter

The reality is that many fraternities and sororities present at Ohio universities are part of large, national organizations. These national headquarters often publish extensive anti-hazing policies and risk management guidelines, but these are often developed precisely because similar incidents have occurred at other chapters, sometimes repeatedly.

When a local Ohio chapter engages in forced alcohol consumption, physical abuse, or humiliating rituals that mirror past incidents in other states, it directly demonstrates foreseeability. This concept is vital in civil litigation, as it shows that the national organization knew or should have known about the potential for harm and failed to adequately prevent it. This pattern of behavior strengthens arguments for negligence or even punitive damages against national entities.

Lupe Peña, one of Attorney911’s lead attorneys, brings invaluable insight here. Having previously worked as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm, she understands the strategies national organizations and their insurers employ to deflect blame and minimize payouts in hazing cases. “We know their playbook because we used to run it,” she often says, emphasizing how this insider knowledge benefits our clients.

Organization Insights: National Patterns & Local Presence

Here, we highlight several national Greek organizations with a presence in Ohio that have faced significant hazing-related legal actions or investigations. This is not an exhaustive list but aims to illustrate how national patterns inform local oversight.

Pi Kappa Alpha (PIKE): This fraternity has a documented history of severe hazing incidents, most notably the tragic death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University in Ohio in 2021. Foltz died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume excessive alcohol. This case directly led to criminal convictions and a $10 million settlement from the national fraternity and BGSU. Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha also faced a $14 million settlement in 2018 for the death of David Bogenberger at Northern Illinois University due to alcohol poisoning during a hazing event. These numerous, high-profile incidents demonstrate a clear pattern of severe alcohol-related hazing within the organization, making it evident that the national organization has a long history of being put on notice. PIKE often has chapters at prominent Ohio universities.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE): SAE has been historically referred to as “America’s deadliest fraternity” by Bloomberg News due to multiple alcohol-related deaths. While they publicly claimed to eliminate pledging nationally in 2014, incidents have persisted. Examples include a lawsuit filed in 2023 alleging a traumatic brain injury at the University of Alabama chapter during hazing, and a 2021 case at Texas A&M where pledges suffered chemical burns from industrial-strength cleaner, spit, and eggs. SAE has a presence at many Ohio universities, meaning its national pattern of severe hazing and injuries forms a critical part of the context for any local incident.
Phi Delta Theta (Phi Delt): This fraternity was involved in the tragic death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University in 2017. Gruver died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to participate in a “Bible study” drinking game where incorrect answers meant forced drinking. His death led to the Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute in Louisiana. Phi Delta Theta has chapters at several Ohio institutions, and the national organization’s history of alcohol-related hazing is directly relevant to assessing foreseeability and accountability for any future incidents.
Pi Kappa Phi (PKP): This fraternity was linked to the death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University in 2017, where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning after a “Big Brother Night” event. More recently, Attorney911 is actively involved in litigation against Pi Kappa Phi (among other defendants) in the Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston case, a $10 million lawsuit filed in late 2025 regarding a pledge who suffered acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis from alleged severe hazing. Pi Kappa Phi, with chapters in Ohio, has a national history that clearly demonstrates a foreseeable risk of severe alcohol and physical hazing.
Sigma Pi (Sig Pi): This fraternity was involved in the death of Collin Wiant at Ohio University in 2018. Although the immediate cause of death was nitrous oxide ingestion, his parents allege that Wiant’s participation in hazing rituals contributed to drug use and his ultimate tragic death. This case was instrumental in the creation of Ohio’s Collin’s Law. Sigma Pi also faced legal action related to another incident in 2019 at the University of Buffalo, where a student died following alleged physical hazing and sleep deprivation. Sigma Pi has chapters at various Ohio colleges, including significant presence at Ohio University.

Tie Back to Legal Strategy for Ohio Families

The national histories of these Greek organizations are not just cautionary tales; they are powerful legal tools.

Establishing Foreseeability: When a local Ohio chapter engages in hazing tactics that have led to injuries or deaths at other chapters nationwide, it becomes difficult for the national organization to claim ignorance or that the incident was “unforeseeable.” Our legal team can demonstrate that the national organization had ample prior notice of specific dangerous behaviors.
Strengthening Negligence Claims: These patterns of past misconduct are critical evidence to show that the national organization may have been negligent in its supervision, training, or enforcement of anti-hazing policies. Did they implement meaningful changes after previous tragedies? Were their discipline policies weak?
Insurance and Damages: Knowledge of national patterns can influence how insurance companies evaluate claims and impact discussions around the potential for punitive damages. Punitive damages aim to punish egregious conduct and deter future similar actions, and an organization’s repeated failure to address known hazing risks can be a key factor in such awards.

For Ohio families navigating the aftermath of a hazing incident, legal counsel that understands these national patterns can be invaluable in building a comprehensive case for accountability. We track these histories precisely to ensure every liable party, from individual members to the national organizations and universities, is held responsible.

Complete Ohio Greek Organization Directory

Attorney911 tracks every IRS-registered fraternity and sorority in Ohio:

ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 82-4307688 | ADA, OH 45810-0000
ZETA KAPPA CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 34-6576965 | ADA, OH 45810-6052
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5649042 | AKRON, OH 44304-1869
LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 34-0955345 | AKRON, OH 44304-1523
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-4075411 | BEREA, OH 44017-2005
BETA SIGMA INC OF KAPPA SIGMA OF ST LOUIS | EIN: 43-0993526 | BEXLEY, OH 43209-1740
SIGMA BETA HOUSING CORPORATION | EIN: 85-3656591 | BEXLEY, OH 43209-2536
THETA CHI ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF ETA ZETA CHAPTER | EIN: 11-3838986 | BLACKLICK, OH 43004-7164
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-4036313 | BOWLING GREEN, OH 43402-9311
EPSILON PI TAU INC | EIN: 56-1060074 | BOWLING GREEN, OH 43403-0001
OHIO CHAPTER OF SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON FRATERNITY | EIN: 34-1132904 | BOWLING GREEN, OH 43402-4020
SIGMA PHI EPSILON OHIO KAPPA CORPORATION | EIN: 34-4429369 | BOWLING GREEN, OH 43403-4003
PHI BETA PSI SORORITY | EIN: 34-6557711 | CELINA, OH 45822-9595
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 27-5374538 | CINCINATTI, OH 45221-0001
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-2964756 | CINCINATTI, OH 45221-0001
CHI OMICRON CHAPTER OF THE FRATERNITY OF PHI GAMMA DELTA | EIN: 52-1353901 | CINCINNATI, OH 45220-2820
KAPPA SIGMA NU-PSI HOUSING CORPORATION | EIN: 88-0876723 | CINCINNATI, OH 45236-3408
NEW YORK DELTA ALUMNI BOARD | EIN: 14-6024557 | CINCINNATI, OH 45220-1145
OHIO THETA CHAPTER OF THE SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY | EIN: 31-0619649 | CINCINNATI, OH 45220-2804
PHI DELTA THETA CHAPTER ASSOCIATION OF CINCINNATI | EIN: 20-5193280 | CINCINNATI, OH 45226-0000
TWENTY CULTURED PEARLS FOUNDATION | EIN: 82-4402489 | CINCINNATI, OH 45240-0546
CLEVELAND PHI KAPPA THETA ALUMNI CORPORATION | EIN: 20-3472738 | CLEVELAND, OH 44120-5490
OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY INC ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER | EIN: 34-6580163 | CLEVELAND, OH 44110-3042
PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 23-7326297 | CLEVELAND, OH 44106-2697
PHI SIGMA RHO NATIONAL SORORITY | EIN: 45-0492912 | CLEVELAND, OH 44106-2619
SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-2529402 | CLEVELAND, OH 44115-2214
PHI BETA PSI SORORITY | EIN: 51-0251584 | CLOVERDALE, OH 45827-9315
PHI BETA PSI SORORITY | EIN: 34-1252286 | COLDWATER, OH 45828-0045
PHI BETA PSI SORORITY | EIN: 34-6572927 | COLDWATER, OH 45828-9769
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-1619580 | COLUMBUS, OH 43209-7812
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF ALPHA GAMMA SIGMA | EIN: 31-1096080 | COLUMBUS, OH 43201-1510
DELTA GAMMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 16-6053635 | COLUMBUS, OH 43221-1736
HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 94-3305434 | COLUMBUS, OH 43210-1181
OHIO STATE CHAPTER OF TRIANGLE | EIN: 31-4379846 | COLUMBUS, OH 43201-1803
PHI BETA PSI SORORITY | EIN: 31-6050856 | COLUMBUS, OH 43229-1909
PSI OMEGA HOUSE COMPANY | EIN: 31-6050092 | COLUMBUS, OH 43235-5111
SIGMA THETA TAU INTERNATIONAL INC | EIN: 90-0012738 | COLUMBUS, OH 43222-1504
THE ALPHA LAMBDA CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 35-2575057 | COLUMBUS, OH 43201-0000
THE BETA PHI CHAPTER OF DELTA TAU DELTA HOUSE ASSOCIATION | EIN: 31-0927001 | COLUMBUS, OH 43201-1145
THE SIGMA KAPPA CHAPTER HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA DELTA SORORIT | EIN: 31-6050524 | COLUMBUS, OH 43201-1602
LONE STAR HOUSING ASSOCIATION | EIN: 84-5157007 | COPLEY, OH 44321-2843
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-3128556 | DAYTON, OH 45435-0001
EAST CENTRAL PROVINCE | EIN: 93-3468519 | DAYTON, OH 45459-5316
OHIO PI CHAPTER OF THE SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY | EIN: 23-7328948 | DAYTON, OH 45435-0001
PHI SIGMA RHO NATIONAL SORORITY | EIN: 27-1553278 | DAYTON, OH 45409-2544
ALPHA SIGMA EPSILON CHAPTER HOUSING CORPORATION | EIN: 31-1783241 | DELAWARE, OH 43015-2331
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-4085537 | DELAWARE, OH 43015-2313
SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY OHIO EPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 47-5217126 | DELAWARE, OH 43015-2319
THE BETA MU CHAPTER OF THE PHI KAPPA TAU FRATERNITY | EIN: 34-1559527 | DOVER, OH 44622-1325
ETA DELTA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 35-2103589 | DUBLIN, OH 43017-9535
ETA MU HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 26-2446833 | DUBLIN, OH 43017-9535
ETA OMICRON HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 45-2997498 | DUBLIN, OH 43017-9535
KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA BETA PHI ALUMNAE BUILDING ASSOCIATION | EIN: 81-6014137 | DUBLIN, OH 43017-9535
KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION | EIN: 83-1084242 | DUBLIN, OH 43017-9535
KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 54-6124640 | DUBLIN, OH 43017-9535
KKG HOUSE BOARD CORPORATION ALPHA | EIN: 80-0300496 | DUBLIN, OH 43017-9535
UCR-E PI HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 33-0323934 | DUBLIN, OH 43017-9535
HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 27-1657945 | FINDLAY, OH 45840-3653
ZETA PHI CORPORATION | EIN: 36-4711922 | GALENA, OH 43021-8601
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF MU CHAPTER SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 31-4380140 | GRANVILLE, OH 43023-0415
LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 31-0727677 | GRANVILLE, OH 43023-1549
ROTARY CLUB OF GROVE CITY | EIN: 36-4089880 | GROVE CITY, OH 43123-6378
IVY ROSE FOUNDATION OF TOLEDO INC | EIN: 31-1510074 | HOLLAND, OH 43528-9028
PHI SIGMA RHO NATIONAL SORORITY | EIN: 38-2900287 | INDEPENDENCE, OH 44131-5038
PHI BETA PSI SORORITY | EIN: 31-6050078 | LIMA, OH 45801-2221
SISTERS IN SERVICE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION | EIN: 76-0804042 | LIMA, OH 45802-0216
PHI BETA PSI SORORITY | EIN: 31-6050079 | LONDON, OH 43140-8727
SIGMA KAPPA SORORITY | EIN: 31-4403496 | MARIETTA, OH 45750-3004
SNYDER NATION FOUNDATION INC | EIN: 45-2797514 | MARION, OH 43302-5231
SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY INC | EIN: 30-0178435 | MAUMEE, OH 43537-1053
BETA OF EPSILON PSI EPSILON ALUMNI ASSN INC | EIN: 23-7326262 | MIAMISBURG, OH 45342-6795
PHI BETA PSI SORORITY | EIN: 31-6040499 | MIDDLETOWN, OH 45042-3825
PROVINCE PI OF SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON | EIN: 34-1254777 | NORTH JACKSON, OH 44451-9678
BETA THETA PI FRATERNITY | EIN: 23-7123124 | OXFORD, OH 45056-1429
ALPHA PHI INTERNATIONAL FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 46-2605252 | SOLON, OH 44139-3100
CHAPTER HOUSE ASSOCIATION OF CHI CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA PI | EIN: 31-0548040 | SPRINGFIELD, OH 45504-2227
194 SPICER INC | EIN: 56-2644123 | STOW, OH 44224-2180
ALEA SOCIETY SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION INC | EIN: 84-2670708 | TOLEDO, OH 43623-1529
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-4063574 | TOLEDO, OH 43606-3328
KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY | EIN: 34-6579735 | TOLEDO, OH 43610-0829
GAMMA KAPPA HOUSE CORPORATION OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 85-3038640 | TWINSBURG, OH 44087-4942
ALPHA RHO HOUSE CORPORATION OF DELTA GAMMA | EIN: 31-0891543 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1725
BETA IOTA OF DELTA GAMMA HOUSE CORPORATION INC | EIN: 35-6033792 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1752
BETA PSI HOUSE CORPORATION OF DELTA GAMMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 27-4202952 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1725
BUILDING CORPORATION OF BETA ETA CHAPTER OF DELTA GAMMA | EIN: 74-6068880 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1752
DELTA BETA HOUSE CORP OF DELTA GAMMA | EIN: 61-0608655 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1725
DELTA GAMMA BUILDING ASSOC OF BETA UPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 93-6022445 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1752
DELTA GAMMA BUILDING CO | EIN: 37-6028132 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1752
DELTA GAMMA HOME ASSOC OF NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY | EIN: 36-0989140 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1752
DELTA GAMMA SOCIETY | EIN: 41-6029581 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1752
DELTA PI HOUSE CORP OF DELTA GAMMA | EIN: 23-7121550 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1725
DELTA RHO HOUSE OF DELTA GAMMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 23-7317188 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1725
ETA ETA HOUSE CORPORATION OF DELTA GAMMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 20-0071139 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1752
ETA IOTA HOUSE CORPORATION OF DELTA GAMMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 41-2033526 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1725
GAMMA IOTA OF DELTA GAMMA HOUSE ASSOCIATION INC | EIN: 35-6023347 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1752
KAPPA HOUSE CORPORATION OF DELTA GAMMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 47-6027715 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1752
PHI ALUMNAE OF DELTA GAMMA INC | EIN: 84-0291090 | UPPER ARLNGTN, OH 43221-1725
OHIO ALPHA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION INC | EIN: 35-1938445 | URBANA, OH 43078-2347
PHI BETA PSI SORORITY | EIN: 34-6596203 | VAN WERT, OH 45891-9788
CINCINNATI FIJI ASSOCIATION | EIN: 31-6086550 | WEST CHESTER, OH 45069-6343
PHI BETA PSI SORORITY | EIN: 23-2034423 | WESTERVILLE, OH 43081-4181
ALPHA LAMBDA ALUMNI CORPORATION OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 92-0566953 | WORTHINGTON, OH 43085-3095
HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 94-3305461 | YOUNGSTOWN, OH 44505-1701
SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY ETA CHI CHAPTER | EIN: 34-1234160 | YOUNGSTOWN, OH 44555-0001
HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 85-1210403 | ZANESVILLE, OH 43701-7284

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

For Ohio families reeling from a child’s hazing injury or death, the path to justice can seem daunting. However, building a strong legal case is fundamentally about meticulously gathering evidence, understanding the full scope of damages, and deploying a strategic plan against powerful institutional defendants. Attorney911 specializes in precisely this, leveraging a deep understanding of modern hazing tactics and legal precedents.

Evidence: The Cornerstones of a Hazing Case

In today’s interconnected world, digital evidence is often the most critical component of a hazing case. However, a comprehensive investigation leaves no stone unturned.

Digital Communications: In many hazing cases, the blueprint of the abuse is laid bare in group chats and direct messages. Platforms like GroupMe, WhatsApp, Snapchat, iMessage/SMS group texts, and even Discord servers are often used to organize, direct, and document hazing activities. These messages can reveal planning, intent, coercion, and names of responsible parties. It is crucial to screenshot these communications immediately, ensuring timestamps, sender identities, and full conversational context are captured. Even if messages are deleted, digital forensics can often recover them, but initial preservation via screenshots is vital.
Photos & Videos: Visual evidence is powerful. This includes photos or videos taken by members themselves during hazing events, which might be shared in group chats, private social media, or even posted publicly (often under humorous or misleading captions). Importantly, this also includes clear, well-documented photographs of any injuries sustained, taken from multiple angles and over time to show progression. Surveillance footage, if available, from campus cameras, private residences, or commercial venues (e.g., Ring doorbell cameras) can also provide crucial corroboration, proving presence and activity.
Internal Organization Documents: These can include pledge manuals, initiation scripts, ritual books, “traditions” lists, and internal emails or texts from officers discussing new member activities. These documents can expose official or de facto hazing practices, as well as the organizational structure and directives that facilitated the abuse.
University Records: Through subpoena or public records requests (especially for public universities in Ohio, due to Collin’s Law), we can unearth vital information. This includes prior disciplinary records against the same organization for hazing or other misconduct, incident reports filed with campus police or student conduct offices, Title IX complaints (if applicable), and publicly mandated hazing violation reports. Ohio’s Collin’s Law explicitly requires universities to publish hazing reports, providing transparency for families and a clear record of past failures.
Medical and Psychological Records: These document the direct harm suffered. Emergency room reports, hospitalization records, toxicology reports (especially for alcohol or drug-related hazing), and imaging (X-rays, CT scans) confirm physical injuries. Crucially, psychological evaluations are vital to document emotional distress, PTSD, depression, anxiety, emotional abuse, humiliation, and other long-term mental health impacts.
Witness Testimony: The accounts of other pledges, active members, roommates, Resident Advisors (RAs), coaches, and even bystanders who observed the hazing can be indispensable. Former members who quit or were expelled, often due to disillusionment with hazing, can also provide critical insights.

Damages: Recovering What Was Lost

Hazing exacts a heavy toll, both financially and personally. Our firm works to ensure that all categories of damages are thoroughly documented and pursued.

Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs related to physical injuries, from emergency treatment, ambulance rides, and hospital stays, to long-term rehabilitation, physical therapy, prescription medications, and any necessary adaptive equipment. For severe injuries like traumatic brain injury or rhabdomyolysis, a life care plan may be developed to project the extensive costs of lifelong care.
Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This includes compensation for wages lost by the victim or their parents if they had to take time off work for care. For students, it encompasses lost tuition, fees, and scholarships if they had to withdraw or transfer, as well as the potential long-term impact on future earning capacity if their injuries result in permanent disability or a delayed career start.
Non-Economic Damages: These are harder to quantify but are often the most profound. They include physical pain and suffering, the deep emotional distress caused by psychological abuse and humiliation, and the loss of enjoyment of life. This can impact a student’s ability to participate in hobbies, achieve personal goals, and form healthy relationships. Psychological injuries like PTSD, severe anxiety, and depression can be severely debilitating and are a significant component of these damages.
Wrongful Death Damages: In the devastating event of a hazing death, surviving family members (parents, spouses, children) can pursue wrongful death claims. This includes funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and compensation for the immense grief, emotional suffering, and loss of companionship, guidance, and counsel. Ohio’s Collin’s Law can also lead to more direct legal accountability for individuals and the organizations responsible.
Punitive Damages: In cases where defendants acted with extreme recklessness, malice, or deliberate indifference, punitive damages may be sought. These are designed to punish egregious conduct and deter similar actions in the future, sending a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated.

Strategy: Unlocking Accountability

Hazing cases are rarely straightforward. They involve navigating multiple defendants, complex insurance issues, and a culture of silence.

Identifying All Liable Parties: We meticulously investigate to identify every individual, local chapter, national organization, and university that bears responsibility. This multi-layered approach maximizes the potential for full compensation.
Overcoming Defenses: Institutions and organizations frequently employ similar defenses: “the victim consented,” “it happened off-campus,” “we had anti-hazing policies.” Our firm, particularly with Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge of insurance defense tactics, is adept at dismantling these defenses by proving coercion, foreseeability, negligent supervision, and the failure to enforce policies.
Navigating Insurance Coverage: Insurance companies often try to deny coverage by claiming hazing is an “intentional act.” We challenge these arguments, identifying all potential insurance policies—from homeowner’s to national organization liability plans—to ensure maximum recovery.
Balancing Public Accountability and Privacy: For Ohio families, the decision to pursue litigation involves balancing the desire for justice with concerns about privacy. We work with families to determine the best approach, which may include confidential settlements or public trials, depending on their goals.

Attorney911 is committed to building robust cases for Ohio families impacted by hazing. We don’t just seek compensation; we fight for accountability, knowing that holding perpetrators and institutions responsible is key to preventing future tragedies.

Practical Guides & FAQs

For Ohio parents and students, navigating a hazing situation can be incredibly distressing and confusing. Knowing what to look for, how to respond, and where to find help is paramount. We aim to empower you with practical, actionable information.

For Parents: Recognizing & Responding to Hazing

The signs of hazing can be subtle, but for Ohio parents, vigilance can be life-saving.

Warning Signs of Hazing:
- Physical Injuries: Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or repetitive strains (e.g., from forced physical activity). Your child giving vague or inconsistent excuses for injuries is a huge red flag.
- Fatigue & Health Issues: Extreme exhaustion, constant sleep deprivation, or unusual illness. The legal team at Attorney911 can tell you about cases where pledges have suffered kidney damage from overexertion and dehydration.
- Behavioral Changes: Sudden secrecy about their organization’s activities (“I can’t talk about it”), withdrawal from former friends or family, new anxiety, depression, or irritability. They might become defensive when asked about joining the group.
- Academic Decline: Sudden drops in grades, missing classes, or neglecting assignments due to mandatory “new member” obligations.
- Financial Strain: Unexplained requests for money, a sudden need to pay for items or events related to the group, or unusual charges on cards.
How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation calmly and with empathy, not judgment. Start with open-ended questions like, “How are things going with your group? Are you enjoying it?” Emphasize that their safety and well-being are your top priorities, and that you will support them regardless.
If Your Child is Hurt: Prioritize medical care immediately. Document everything meticulously: take photos of any injuries, screenshot any relevant texts or social media posts, and write down every detail your child shares (dates, times, names). These records are invaluable if legal action becomes necessary.
Dealing with the University: Engage with university officials, documenting every conversation. Specifically ask about any prior hazing incidents involving the organization and the university’s response. Remember that under Ohio’s Collin’s Law, universities must publish all hazing violations on their website.
When to Talk to a Lawyer: If your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing the incident, immediate legal counsel is essential. An experienced Ohio hazing attorney can help you navigate the complexities of Ohio law and university policies.

For Students / Pledges: Self-Assessment & Safety Planning

If you’re a student in Ohio, whether pledging a fraternity, playing a sport, or joining a club, it’s vital to recognize the line between healthy team-building and illegal hazing.

Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself: “Am I being forced or pressured to do something I don’t want to do? Would I do this if I had a real choice? Is this dangerous, degrading, or illegal? Would the university or my parents approve if they knew? Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about this?” If the answer to any of these is yes, it’s hazing.
Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: In Ohio, as per Collin’s Law, your “consent” to hazing is not a legal defense. It doesn’t matter if you went willingly or even agreed; the law recognizes the immense peer pressure and power imbalance that makes true consent impossible.
Exiting and Reporting Safely: If you feel unsafe, you have the right to leave at any time. You can report privately via campus channels or anonymously through Ohio’s university hazing reports or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293). Remember, most schools and Ohio law provides good-faith reporter immunity if you call for help in an emergency.
Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: If someone is in medical distress due to hazing (including alcohol poisoning), Ohio law provides limited immunity for those who seek medical help in good faith, even if they were consuming alcohol underage or involved in the hazing. Your safety and the safety of others must come first.

For Former Members / Witnesses

If you are a former member or witness to hazing in Ohio, your perspective can be critical.

Your Role in Accountability: While you might fear repercussions, your testimony and any evidence you possess can prevent future harm and save lives. It’s an important step toward ensuring accountability for those responsible.
Seeking Legal Advice: You may need your own legal advice to understand your rights, especially if you had any involvement in the hazing. An attorney can help you understand the potential implications of coming forward and how to navigate any legal processes.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

For Ohio families and students, mistakes made early on can severely jeopardize a hazing claim:

Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence:
- What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble”
- Why it’s wrong: Looks like a cover-up; can be obstruction of justice; makes case nearly impossible
- What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing content
Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:
- What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind”
- Why it’s wrong: They immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare defenses
- What to do instead: Document everything, then call a lawyer before any confrontation
Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms:
- What universities do: Pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements
- Why it’s wrong: You may waive your right to sue; settlements are often far below case value
- What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything without an attorney reviewing it first
Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer:
- What families think: “I want people to know what happened”
- Why it’s wrong: Defense attorneys screenshot everything; inconsistencies hurt credibility; can waive privilege
- What to do instead: Document privately; let your lawyer control public messaging
Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”:
- What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic”
- Why it’s wrong: They pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that hurt the case
- What to do instead: Once you’re considering legal action, all communication goes through your lawyer
Waiting “to see how the university handles it”:
- What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally”
- Why it’s wrong: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, statute of limitations runs, university controls narrative
- What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW; consult lawyer immediately; university process ≠ real accountability
Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer:
- What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim”
- Why it’s wrong: Recorded statements are used against you; early settlements are lowball
- What to do instead: Politely decline and say, “My attorney will contact you”
  Learn more about these and other pitfalls by watching Attorney911’s video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

Short FAQ

“Can I sue a university for hazing in Ohio?”
Yes. Under Ohio’s Collin’s Law, universities can be held liable for hazing incidents, especially if they had prior knowledge, failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it, or inadequately responded to reports. Both public (like Ohio State) and private (like the University of Dayton) institutions can be named in a lawsuit. Every case is fact-specific, so contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.
“Is hazing a felony in Ohio?”
Yes, it can be. Ohio’s Collin’s Law designates hazing that involves drugs or alcohol and results in serious bodily injury or death as a third-degree felony. Other forms of hazing are classified as a second-degree misdemeanor. Individual officers and participants can also face charges for failing to report hazing.
“Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
Yes. Ohio’s Collin’s Law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. The law recognizes that true consent is impossible in coercive hazing environments, where pressure to join or belong distorts a student’s free will.
“How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit in Ohio?”
In Ohio, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims is generally two years from the date of injury or death. However, specific circumstances, such as the “discovery rule” (when the harm or its cause was not immediately apparent) or cases involving fraudulent concealment, may extend this period. Because evidence disappears and witnesses’ memories fade, it is critical to act quickly. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately for advice tailored to your situation. You can also watch our video explaining the statute of limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c
“What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
The location of the hazing does not eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities or other organizations can still be held accountable based on their oversight responsibilities, knowledge of the activity, and foreseeability of harm, even if the incident occurred off-campus. Many significant hazing cases resulting in multi-million-dollar judgments have occurred at off-campus locations.
“Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial, and we always prioritize the privacy of our clients. While some cases become public due to criminal charges or trials, we strive to achieve the best outcome while protecting your family’s identity when desired.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When you or your child has been impacted by hazing at an Ohio university, you need more than a general lawyer. You need attorneys who intimately understand the complex legal landscape, know how powerful institutions fight back, and are committed to securing justice for families in Ohio and across the country. Attorney911 is precisely that firm.

From our Houston office, we serve families across Ohio and throughout the nation, understanding that hazing at institutions like Ohio State, Bowling Green State, or the University of Cincinnati can profoundly affect families everywhere.

Our firm’s unique qualifications make us uniquely suited to handle complex hazing cases:

Insurance Insider Advantage: Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings invaluable insight as a former insurance defense attorney for a national firm. She knows the tactics employed by fraternity and university insurance companies – their delay strategies, coverage exclusion arguments, and how they value (or undervalue) hazing claims. “We know their playbook because we used to run it,” she explains, giving our clients a distinct edge. You can learn more about Lupe’s background at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.
Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has extensive experience taking on billion-dollar corporations in high-stakes litigation, including one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation. Our federal court experience means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their formidable legal teams. We know how to build a case that demands accountability from powerful defendants. Discover more about Ralph’s credentials at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.
Multi-Million Dollar Results in Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury: We have a proven track record of securing substantial results for families in cases involving severe injury and wrongful death. We don’t settle for less; we meticulously build cases that reflect the true impact of hazing, including the extensive costs of long-term care for brain injuries or other permanent disabilities. Our wrongful death practice area page provides more information: https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/.
Dual Civil & Criminal Expertise: Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) underscores our understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual expertise allows us to seamlessly navigate both aspects of a hazing case, a critical advantage for our clients. For more on our criminal defense services, visit https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/.
Investigative Depth: We employ a network of experts—medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists—to uncover, preserve, and interpret crucial evidence. From recovering deleted group chats to dissecting national fraternity records and university files, we investigate every detail like a life depends on it.
Empathy and Advocacy: We understand that a hazing incident is one of the hardest things an Ohio family can face. Our approach is rooted in empathy, listening to your story without judgment, while aggressively pursuing answers and accountability.

Your Call to Action: You Don’t Have to Face This Alone

If your child has experienced hazing at any Ohio university or college, or at any institution across the country, we want to hear from you. Families in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Toledo, and throughout Ohio have the right to answers and accountability.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to what happened, explain your legal options under Ohio’s Collin’s Law and federal statutes, and help you decide the best path forward for your family.

In your free consultation, you can expect us to:

Listen to your story with compassion and without judgment.
Review any evidence you have, including photos, medical records, and digital communications.
Explain the legal options available to you, whether it’s a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, or both.
Discuss realistic timelines and what you can expect during the legal process.
Address any concerns about costs; we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. You can learn more about this in our video explaining contingency fees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc
Provide a pressure-free environment for you to decide your next steps.

Whether you’re in Ohio or anywhere across the nation, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone.

Call Attorney911 today.

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com

Hablamos Español: Contact Lupe Peña at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com