🚨 Orange County Hazing Lawyers: Protecting Students from Abuse and Negligence

Attorney 911: Fighting for Hazing Victims in Orange County and Beyond

Hazing is not tradition. It’s not bonding. It’s not “boys being boys.” It’s abuse. It’s assault. It’s illegal. And when it happens to your child at a college or university near Orange County, you need experienced legal representation to hold the responsible parties accountable.

At Attorney 911, we are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know how to build these cases, how to fight powerful institutions, and how to win. Orange County families get the same aggressive representation we provide locally.

If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Orange County, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation.

🔥 The Hazing Crisis in Orange County: What Every Parent Needs to Know

Orange County is home to respected educational institutions where families send their children expecting a safe and enriching college experience. Unfortunately, the same hazing culture that hospitalized our client in Houston exists at universities and colleges across America — including those near Orange County.

🏛️ Colleges and Universities Near Orange County with Greek Life

While Orange County itself is primarily known for its suburban communities and proximity to New York City, several higher education institutions in the broader Hudson Valley and New York metropolitan area have active Greek life organizations. These include:

• Mount Saint Mary College (Newburgh, NY) – Approximately 20 miles from Orange County
• Marist College (Poughkeepsie, NY) – Approximately 30 miles from Orange County
• SUNY New Paltz (New Paltz, NY) – Approximately 35 miles from Orange County
• SUNY Orange (Middletown, NY) – Located within Orange County
• Pace University (Pleasantville, NY campus) – Approximately 50 miles from Orange County
• Manhattanville College (Purchase, NY) – Approximately 50 miles from Orange County

These institutions — and others across New York — have active fraternities and sororities where hazing can occur. The same national organizations that operated the chapter that hospitalized our client in Houston have chapters at universities near Orange County. If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority in the Hudson Valley or New York metropolitan area, they face the same risks that sent our client to the hospital.

⚠️ Our Landmark Case: $10 Million Fight Against Hazing

This Happened in Houston. It Could Happen in Orange County.

On November 21, 2025, Attorney 911 filed a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi fraternity and the University of Houston on behalf of Leonel Bermudez, a young man who was hospitalized with severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after being subjected to extreme hazing.

The hazing activities included:

• Waterboarding with a garden hose – Simulated drowning, a form of torture
• Forced to perform 500+ squats and 100+ pushups – Until he collapsed and couldn’t stand
• Struck with wooden paddles – Physical assault with weapons
• Forced to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns – Until vomiting, then forced to continue exercising
• Sleep deprivation – Forced to drive fraternity members at all hours
• Psychological torture – Carrying sexual objects, threats of expulsion, humiliation

The result: Leonel Bermudez spent four days in the hospital fighting for his life. He suffered kidney failure because his muscles broke down from the extreme physical abuse.

This is not an isolated incident. The same fraternities that hazed our client operate at universities near Orange County. The same negligence that allowed this to happen in Houston exists at institutions across New York. Orange County families need to know: this could happen to your child.

📰 Media Coverage: The Story That Shocked America

Our case has been covered by major media outlets, exposing the brutal reality of hazing:

Why This Matters to Orange County Families:

• Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters nationwide – including near Orange County
• The same national organizations operate in New York – they have the same hazing culture
• Universities near Orange County face the same liability issues – they own or control fraternity properties and have the same duty to protect students
• If it can happen in Houston, it can happen in New York – and it likely is happening near Orange County

💔 Why Orange County Families Choose Attorney 911 for Hazing Cases

1. We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now

While other firms talk about hazing, we’re actively litigating a $10 million hazing case. We know the defendants, we know their tactics, and we know how to win. Orange County families get the same aggressive representation we’re bringing to court in Texas.

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook

Both of our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are former insurance defense lawyers. We know exactly how insurance companies and institutional defendants think, strategize, and try to minimize claims. We’ve seen their playbook from the inside — and now we use that knowledge to dismantle their defenses and maximize recovery for your family.

3. Federal Court Authority – We Can Pursue Your Case Anywhere

We are admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to pursue federal claims. This means we can represent Orange County hazing victims no matter where the incident occurred — whether at a New York university, a national fraternity headquarters, or anywhere in America.

4. Dual-State Bar Admission – Strategic Advantage for National Cases

Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas and New York. This dual admission provides a strategic advantage when pursuing national fraternity organizations, many of which are headquartered in New York or have significant operations in the state.

5. Proven Track Record in High-Stakes Litigation

Ralph Manginello was involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, a multi-billion dollar mass tort case. This experience demonstrates our ability to take on massive corporate defendants and win. Whether we’re fighting a national fraternity, a university, or both, we have the experience to hold them accountable.

6. We Travel to Orange County for Your Case

We understand that distance can be a concern for Orange County families. We will travel to Orange County for depositions, client meetings, and trials as needed. Our commitment is to provide you with the same level of service as if we had an office in Orange County.

7. Remote Consultations Available

Orange County families can schedule free video consultations with our attorneys. We use secure, confidential technology to meet with you and discuss your case without the need for travel.

8. Se Habla Español – No Language Barriers

Our staff is bilingual, and we provide comprehensive legal services to Spanish-speaking clients. If your family is more comfortable communicating in Spanish, we can serve you without language barriers.

9. Contingency Fee Representation – $0 Upfront Costs

We represent hazing victims on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• $0 upfront costs – You don’t pay us anything to hire us
• $0 hourly fees – We don’t bill by the hour
• We take the risk – If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing
• You only pay if we win – Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict

This removes the financial barrier to justice. You can fight powerful institutions without worrying about legal fees.

10. Compassionate, Client-Focused Representation

We understand the trauma that hazing victims and their families experience. Our approach is compassionate, professional, and client-focused. We treat Orange County families with the respect and care they deserve during this difficult time.

📋 What to Do If Your Child Has Been Hazed in Orange County

If you suspect or know that your child has been hazed at a college or university near Orange County, follow these steps immediately:

1. Ensure Your Child’s Safety

• Remove them from the dangerous situation immediately
• Seek medical attention if they have been injured
• Consider contacting campus security or local law enforcement if they are in immediate danger

2. Seek Medical Attention

• Even if injuries seem minor, get them checked by a doctor
• Some injuries, like rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown), may not show symptoms immediately
• Medical records are crucial evidence for your case

3. Preserve All Evidence

• Take photographs of any visible injuries at all stages of healing
• Save all communications – text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat messages, emails, social media posts
• Document everything – write down dates, times, locations, names of people involved
• Obtain witness information – names and contact information of other pledges or witnesses
• Save physical evidence – clothing, items used in hazing, any documents given to your child

4. Do NOT Talk to the Organization or Their Representatives

• Do not confront fraternity/sorority leadership
• Do not give statements to university administrators without legal counsel
• Do not sign any documents from the organization
• Do not post about the incident on social media

Anything you say or sign can be used against you. Let us handle all communications.

5. Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney Immediately

• Call Attorney 911 at 1-888-ATTY-911
• Schedule a free, confidential consultation
• Do not delay – evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and statutes of limitations apply

⚖️ Legal Rights of Orange County Hazing Victims

New York Hazing Laws: What Orange County Families Need to Know

New York has strong laws against hazing, and victims have legal rights to pursue compensation:

New York Education Law § 6450 – Hazing Prohibited

Definition of Hazing:

Any action or situation that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission into, or affiliation with, any organization operating under the sanction of a postsecondary institution.

Penalties:

• Class A misdemeanor for hazing that creates a substantial risk of physical injury
• Class E felony for hazing that causes serious physical injury
• Class D felony for hazing that causes death

Key Provision:

“Consent of the victim shall not be a defense to any prosecution under this section.”

This is critical: Even if your child “agreed” to participate, consent is not a defense under New York law.

Civil Liability: Who Can Be Sued for Hazing in Orange County

Hazing victims and their families can pursue civil lawsuits against multiple parties:

Orange County families can sue for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Punitive damages (to punish egregious conduct)
• Wrongful death (if hazing resulted in death)

💰 Precedent Cases: Multi-Million Dollar Proof That Hazing Victims Can Win

Hazing cases result in multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts. These cases prove that juries and courts take hazing seriously and will hold institutions accountable.

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

• Total Recovery: $10.1 million+
• What Happened: Pledge forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol; died from alcohol poisoning
• Outcome: University paid $2.9 million; fraternity and individuals paid $7.2 million
• Why It Matters for Orange County: Our $10 million demand is directly in line with this precedent

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

• Total Recovery: $6.1 million jury verdict
• What Happened: Pledge forced to drink excessive alcohol during “Bible Study” event; died from alcohol poisoning (BAC 0.495)
• Outcome: $6.1 million verdict; fraternity member convicted of negligent homicide
• Why It Matters for Orange County: Juries award millions for hazing deaths and injuries

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

• Total Recovery: $110 million+ (estimated settlement)
• What Happened: Pledge forced to drink 18 drinks in 82 minutes; fell down stairs multiple times; fraternity members waited 12 hours to call 911
• Outcome: 18 members charged; multiple convictions; $110M+ settlement
• Why It Matters for Orange County: Strong evidence leads to massive outcomes

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

• What Happened: Pledge forced to drink entire bottle of bourbon; died from alcohol poisoning
• Outcome: 9 members charged; chapter permanently closed
• Why It Matters for Orange County: Same fraternity as our current case – proves pattern of negligence

🏛️ Who Is Liable for Hazing Near Orange County?

1. National Fraternity/Sorority Organizations

Why They’re Liable:

• They have actual knowledge of hazing culture (Andrew Coffey died in 2017 at Pi Kappa Phi)
• They have policies and procedures that are supposed to prevent hazing
• They have oversight responsibility over local chapters
• They have deep pockets – millions in assets and insurance

What They’ll Argue:

• “We didn’t know”
• “We have anti-hazing policies”
• “We can’t control every chapter”

Our Response:

• Pattern evidence – multiple incidents at multiple chapters
• Internal communications – they knew about “a hazing crisis”
• Failure to enforce – they didn’t implement effective safeguards

2. Universities and Colleges Near Orange County

Why They’re Liable:

• They have a duty to protect students
• They own or control fraternity/sorority properties (premises liability)
• They have prior knowledge of hazing risks (many have prior incidents)
• They have the power to regulate Greek life
• They have substantial resources – endowments, insurance

What They’ll Argue:

• “We didn’t know”
• “Fraternities are private organizations”
• “We can’t monitor everything”

Our Response:

• Prior incidents – many universities have had hazing hospitalizations or deaths
• Ownership/control – if they own the property, they’re responsible
• Oversight failure – they didn’t implement meaningful safeguards

3. Individual Perpetrators

Why They’re Liable:

• They directly participated in hazing
• They directed hazing activities
• They failed to stop hazing when they could have
• They can be personally sued for damages

What They’ll Argue:

• “I was just following orders”
• “Everyone was doing it”
• “The victim consented”

Our Response:

• Consent is not a defense under New York law
• Individual responsibility – each person is accountable for their actions
• Personal assets – they can be held financially responsible

📅 Statute of Limitations: Time Is Running Out for Orange County Victims

New York Personal Injury Statute of Limitations:

• 3 years from date of injury for most personal injury claims
• 2 years from date of death for wrongful death claims

Critical Note: If your child was hazed at a public university (like SUNY schools), notice of claim requirements may apply, shortening the deadline to as little as 90 days in some cases.

Do not wait. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and your legal rights expire. Contact Attorney 911 immediately if your child has been hazed.

🎯 How We Build a Winning Hazing Case for Orange County Families

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

• Send preservation letters to all defendants demanding they preserve all evidence
• Obtain text messages, social media posts, emails, photos, videos
• Secure witness statements from other pledges and bystanders
• Preserve medical records documenting injuries

2. Comprehensive Investigation

• Interview your child and all witnesses
• Obtain Greek life policies, training materials, and communications
• Research prior hazing incidents at the same chapter or university
• Identify all potential defendants – chapter, nationals, university, individuals

3. Medical Documentation

• Obtain complete medical records from all treatment providers
• Consult with medical experts to document injuries and long-term impact
• Create life care plan for future medical needs

4. Pattern Evidence

• Research prior hazing incidents at the same chapter
• Research prior hazing incidents at the same university
• Research prior hazing incidents at the same national organization
• Establish institutional knowledge and failure to act

5. Aggressive Discovery

• Depose chapter officers, national leaders, university administrators
• Obtain internal communications showing knowledge of hazing
• Request insurance policies to identify coverage
• Obtain financial records to identify assets

6. Expert Testimony

• Medical experts – document injuries and causation
• Hazing culture experts – explain the dynamics of Greek life
• Economic experts – calculate future damages
• Vocational experts – assess impact on earning capacity

7. Strategic Litigation

• File complaint with detailed allegations
• Pursue aggressive discovery to uncover all evidence
• File motions to compel when defendants hide evidence
• Prepare for trial if settlement offers are inadequate

8. Media and Public Pressure

• Expose the truth through media coverage
• Pressure institutions to take responsibility
• Encourage other victims to come forward
• Support legislative reform to prevent future hazing

🔍 Common Hazing Activities That Create Liability

Hazing takes many forms, all of which can create legal liability:

Medical Consequences of Hazing:

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown)
• Acute kidney failure
• Alcohol poisoning
• Traumatic brain injury
• Hypothermia/hyperthermia
• Cardiac arrest
• PTSD, anxiety, depression
• Death

🏆 What Orange County Families Can Recover in a Hazing Lawsuit

Economic Damages:

• Past medical expenses (emergency room, hospitalization, treatment)
• Future medical expenses (ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, therapy)
• Lost wages (time missed from work during recovery)
• Lost earning capacity (if injuries affect future career)
• Educational expenses (tuition for disrupted semester, tutoring)

Non-Economic Damages:

• Physical pain and suffering (the agony of injuries and recovery)
• Mental anguish (trauma from abuse, fear of retribution)
• Emotional distress (humiliation, shame, anxiety, depression)
• Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in normal activities)
• Disfigurement (scars from branding, burns, or injuries)

Punitive Damages:

• Awarded when conduct is egregious, intentional, or grossly negligent
• Meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct
• Appropriate for waterboarding, extreme physical abuse, cover-ups

Wrongful Death Damages (if applicable):

• Loss of companionship (for family members)
• Funeral expenses
• Loss of future earnings
• Pain and suffering of the deceased

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing in Orange County

Q: My child consented to participate. Can we still sue?

A: YES. Under New York Education Law § 6450, consent is not a defense to hazing. The law explicitly states that the victim’s consent does not matter. Hazing is illegal regardless of whether the victim agreed to participate.

Q: The fraternity says this was just “tradition.” Is that a defense?

A: NO. “Tradition” does not justify illegal conduct. Assault is assault, battery is battery, and hazing is hazing — regardless of how long it’s been happening. Courts and juries will not accept “tradition” as an excuse for abuse.

Q: We’re in Orange County. Can you represent us even though you’re based in Texas?

A: ABSOLUTELY. While we are based in Texas, we represent hazing victims nationwide, including in Orange County. We have:

• Federal court authority – can pursue federal claims anywhere
• Dual-state bar admission – licensed in Texas and New York
• Travel commitment – we come to Orange County for depositions and trials
• Remote consultation technology – video meetings available

Distance is not a barrier to justice. We will fight for Orange County families just as aggressively as we fight for local clients.

Q: How much does it cost to hire you?

A: $0 upfront. We represent hazing victims on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• No upfront costs – You don’t pay us anything to hire us
• No hourly fees – We don’t bill by the hour
• We take the risk – If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing
• You only pay if we win – Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict

This allows Orange County families to pursue justice without financial barriers.

Q: How long does a hazing lawsuit take?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether it settles or goes to trial. Most hazing cases settle within 1-3 years, but some may take longer.

Typical Timeline:

1. Investigation (1-3 months) – Gather evidence, interview witnesses
2. Medical Treatment (3-12 months) – Complete treatment to document full extent of injuries
3. Demand Package (1-3 months) – Compile evidence and send demand to defendants
4. Negotiation (3-12 months) – Settlement discussions with defendants
5. Litigation (6-24 months) – If no settlement, file lawsuit and proceed to trial

We work to resolve cases as efficiently as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Q: What if the fraternity or university tries to intimidate my child?

We protect our clients. Hazing victims often fear retribution for speaking out. We:

• Handle all communications with the organization and their lawyers
• Protect your privacy – your identity is confidential
• Take legal action if intimidation occurs
• Provide support throughout the process

Our client in the Pi Kappa Phi case was fearful of doing an interview due to retribution. We understand this fear and will protect your child.

Q: Can we sue if the hazing didn’t result in hospitalization?

Yes. Even if your child wasn’t hospitalized, they may still have a valid claim. Hazing can cause:

• Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
• Physical injuries (bruises, sprains, minor burns)
• Emotional distress (humiliation, shame, fear)

Contact us for a free consultation to evaluate your case.

Q: What if my child was hazed at a private university or college?

Private universities can be sued just like public institutions. In fact, private universities often have more substantial insurance coverage and assets, which can result in larger settlements.

Q: Can alumni be sued for hazing?

Yes. Alumni who:

• Host hazing activities at their homes
• Participate in hazing
• Encourage or facilitate hazing
• Allow hazing to occur on their property

can be held personally liable for damages.

📞 Orange County Hazing Victims: Contact Attorney 911 Today

If your child has been hazed at a college or university near Orange County, you need experienced legal representation. We are fighting this battle right now — and we will fight for your family.

Free, Confidential Consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com

Available 24/7 for Orange County Hazing Emergencies

We represent Orange County hazing victims on a contingency fee basis — $0 upfront costs. You don’t pay us unless we win your case.

🏆 Why Orange County Families Trust Attorney 911

Client Testimonials:

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer regarding my case.” — Dame Haskett

“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello and they said that they would take it. And in the next few months I got a call to pick up this handsome check.” — Donald Wilcox

“They fought with the other party insurance and got me more of the settlement that I was expecting.” — Vivian Ruiz

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client that’s caught in the middle of many other cases. You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” — Chad Harris

“This place feels like having a family over your case. And communication with you every step of the way. That’s how you know you’re in good hands.” — Kiwi Potato (Local Guide)

🎓 Hazing Resources for Orange County Families

Educational Institutions with Hazing Policies (Near Orange County):

National Anti-Hazing Organizations:

New York State Resources:

• New York State Anti-Hazing Law: Education Law § 6450
• New York State Police: 1-844-845-7269 (for criminal reporting)
• New York State Education Department: nysed.gov

🚨 Orange County Parents: Protect Your Child from Hazing

Warning Signs of Hazing:

• Unexplained injuries – bruises, cuts, burns
• Changes in behavior – withdrawal, anxiety, depression
• Sleep deprivation – exhaustion, dark circles under eyes
• Unexplained absences – missing classes, events
• Secretive behavior – not talking about activities, avoiding questions
• Sudden weight loss or gain – from forced eating or stress
• Wearing unusual clothing – uniforms, matching outfits, carrying odd items
• Talk of “traditions” or “rites of passage” – coded language for hazing
• Fear of certain people or places – avoiding fraternity/sorority house or members
• Sudden decline in academic performance – from stress or sleep deprivation

What to Do If You Suspect Hazing:

1. Talk to your child – Ask open-ended questions about their experience
2. Document everything – Take notes on what they tell you
3. Preserve evidence – Save texts, social media posts, photos
4. Contact the university – Report your concerns to Greek Life office or Dean of Students
5. Contact an attorney – Know your legal rights and options
6. Consider medical evaluation – Even if injuries seem minor
7. Remove them from the situation – Their safety is the top priority

📢 A Message to Fraternities and Sororities Near Orange County

To the chapters operating near Orange County:

We are watching. We are documenting. We are coming for you.

The same legal strategies that secured $10 million+ verdicts and settlements nationwide apply to your chapter.

If you haze students in the Hudson Valley or New York metropolitan area, we will find every liable entity:

• Your local chapter
• Your national organization
• Your housing corporation
• Your alumni oversight board
• Your individual members
• The university that failed to stop you

Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter at University of Houston? SHUT DOWN.
The same can happen to your chapter.

To the national organizations with chapters near Orange County:

• Pi Kappa Phi
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon
• Pi Kappa Alpha
• Phi Delta Theta
• Beta Theta Pi
• Sigma Chi
• Kappa Sigma
• Others

If your chapter harms students near Orange County, know this:

• We track your house corporations
• We track your alumni chapters
• We track your national insurance structure
• We document your history of hazing deaths and injuries
• We will pursue every liable entity

The choice is yours:

• Clean up your chapters
• Implement real oversight
• Enforce anti-hazing policies
• Or face the same accountability as Pi Kappa Phi

🏆 Our Commitment to Orange County Families

At Attorney 911, we are committed to protecting Orange County students from hazing and holding negligent institutions accountable.

Our promise to Orange County families:

1. We will listen – Your story matters
2. We will investigate – We leave no stone unturned
3. We will fight – We don’t back down from powerful institutions
4. We will win – We have the experience and track record to secure justice
5. We will protect – Your privacy and well-being are our priority

Hazing ends when victims stand up. We stand with you.

📞 Orange County Hazing Victims: Call 1-888-ATTY-911 Today

The same hazing that hospitalized our client in Houston is happening at universities near Orange County. Your child could be next.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. Statutes of limitations expire.

Contact Attorney 911 today for a free, confidential consultation.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com

We represent Orange County hazing victims on a contingency fee basis — $0 upfront costs. You don’t pay us unless we win your case.

© 2025 Attorney 911 Legal Emergency Lawyers™
Serving Orange County, New York, and Nationwide
1177 W Loop S Suite 1600, Houston, TX 77027
Se Habla Español