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Hazing Lawyer in Otero County, Colorado | Fraternity Abuse Attorney
Otero County Parents: Your Child Was Hazed. We Can Help.
If your son or daughter was injured, hospitalized, or traumatized by hazing at a fraternity, sorority, or student organization in Otero County, Colorado — you are not alone. Hazing is not tradition. It’s abuse. It’s illegal. And it’s happening at colleges near Otero County right now.
At Attorney 911, we are actively fighting a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston — where a student was waterboarded, forced to do 500 squats, and hospitalized with kidney failure. This same fraternity has chapters at universities across Colorado, including near Otero County. The same negligence exists at Otero County institutions.
We will bring the same aggressive legal fight to Otero County families.
📞 Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation
📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com
🌐 Serving Otero County from our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont
What Is Hazing? What Happened in Otero County?
Hazing is any activity that endangers the physical or mental health of a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in a student organization. It is illegal in Colorado and nationwide.
Common Hazing Activities in Otero County and Across Colorado:
✔ Physical abuse – Beatings, paddling, forced exercise to exhaustion
✔ Forced consumption – Alcohol, food, or non-food substances until vomiting or passing out
✔ Waterboarding or simulated drowning – Torture disguised as tradition
✔ Sleep deprivation – Forced late-night activities, early morning drills
✔ Psychological torture – Humiliation, degradation, threats of expulsion
✔ Sexual abuse – Forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects
✔ Extreme physical exertion – 500 squats, 100 pushups, bear crawls, 100-yard crawls (can cause rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure)
✔ Exposure to elements – Forced to strip in cold weather, confined in small spaces
Medical Consequences of Hazing in Otero County:
- Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown leading to kidney failure)
- Acute alcohol poisoning (can be fatal)
- Traumatic brain injury (from beatings or falls)
- Hypothermia or heatstroke (from exposure)
- Cardiac arrest (from extreme physical exertion)
- PTSD, anxiety, depression (long-term psychological damage)
- Death
If your child was hazed in Otero County, they may be suffering in silence. We can help.
Why Otero County Families Choose Attorney 911
1. We Are Fighting Hazing RIGHT NOW – $10 Million Lawsuit Against Pi Kappa Phi
We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston, where a student was waterboarded, forced to do 500 squats, and hospitalized with kidney failure. The fraternity knew about a “hazing crisis” and did nothing. The university owned the fraternity house where the abuse occurred.
This same fraternity has chapters near Otero County. The same negligence exists at Otero County institutions.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook
Both of our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, worked for insurance companies before switching sides to represent victims. We know exactly how fraternities, universities, and insurance companies try to deny claims and minimize payouts. We use that insider knowledge to maximize compensation for Otero County families.
3. Federal Court Authority – We Can Sue Anywhere in the U.S.
We are admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and have experience in federal civil rights litigation. This means we can pursue hazing cases nationwide, including in Otero County, Colorado.
4. Dual-State Bar Licenses – Texas & New York
We are licensed in Texas and New York, giving us strategic advantages when suing national fraternities and sororities headquartered outside Colorado.
5. We Speak Spanish – Se Habla Español
Many hazing victims in Otero County come from Hispanic families. We provide bilingual legal services to ensure language is never a barrier to justice.
6. We Travel to Otero County
We will come to Otero County for depositions, client meetings, and trials. Distance is not a barrier to justice.
7. Contingency Fee – $0 Upfront for Otero County Families
We work on contingency — you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This means Otero County families can fight back without financial risk.
Who Can Be Sued for Hazing in Otero County?
Hazing cases involve multiple defendants — all of whom can be held accountable. In our current $10 million lawsuit, we are suing:
| Defendant | Why They’re Liable | Otero County Application |
|---|---|---|
| Local Chapter | Directly organized and conducted hazing | Otero County fraternity/sorority chapters |
| Chapter Officers | Leadership responsibility; directed hazing | Chapter president, pledgemaster, officers |
| Individual Members | Participated in or failed to stop hazing | Members who hazed your child |
| Former Members | Hosted hazing at their residence | Alumni who allowed hazing near Otero County |
| National Organization | Failed to supervise; knew about hazing culture | Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, others with Otero County chapters |
| University/College | Owned property; failed to prevent hazing | Otero County colleges with Greek life |
| Governing Board | Institutional oversight failure | Board of Regents, trustees |
| Insurance Companies | Coverage for institutional liability | Fraternity, university, and homeowner’s insurance |
We sue everyone responsible. No one escapes accountability.
What Damages Can Otero County Families Recover?
Hazing victims and their families can recover compensation for:
Economic Damages (Tangible Losses)
- Medical bills (hospitalization, surgery, therapy, future treatment)
- Lost wages (if victim missed work or lost internship opportunities)
- Educational costs (tuition, fees, lost scholarships)
- Future earning capacity (if injuries affect career options)
Non-Economic Damages (Pain and Suffering)
- Physical pain (from injuries, medical treatment)
- Mental anguish (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
- Emotional distress (humiliation, shame, fear of retribution)
- Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in activities)
- Disfigurement (scarring, permanent injuries)
Punitive Damages (Punishment for Egregious Conduct)
- Awarded when conduct is intentional, reckless, or grossly negligent
- Meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter future hazing
- No cap in Colorado for personal injury cases
Our current hazing case seeks $10 million. Otero County families can seek similar compensation.
Hazing Laws in Colorado – What Otero County Families Need to Know
Colorado Hazing Law (C.R.S. § 18-9-124)
Hazing is a Class 3 misdemeanor in Colorado, punishable by:
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Up to $750 in fines
Consent is NOT a defense. Even if your child “agreed” to participate, the law still holds the organization accountable.
Civil Liability for Hazing in Colorado
Otero County families can sue for damages under:
- Negligence (failure to protect students)
- Assault and battery (physical abuse)
- Intentional infliction of emotional distress (psychological torture)
- Premises liability (if hazing occurred on university-owned property)
- Negligent supervision (if the university or national organization failed to oversee the chapter)
Statute of Limitations in Colorado
- Personal injury: 2 years from the date of injury
- Wrongful death: 2 years from the date of death
Do not wait. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and your legal rights expire.
What to Do If Your Child Was Hazed in Otero County
Step 1: Get Medical Attention
- Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor
- Some injuries (like rhabdomyolysis) may not show symptoms immediately
- Medical records are critical evidence
Step 2: Preserve Evidence
- Take photos/videos of injuries, hazing locations, and any physical evidence
- Save all communications (texts, GroupMe, Snapchat, emails)
- Get witness names and contact information
- Do not delete anything — even if it seems embarrassing
Step 3: Do NOT Talk to the Organization
- Fraternities, sororities, and universities will try to control the narrative
- They may offer money in exchange for silence
- Do not sign anything without consulting an attorney
Step 4: Contact Attorney 911 Immediately
- We offer free, confidential consultations
- We will guide you through the legal process
- We will handle all communications with the organization and insurance companies
📞 Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now
📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com
Hazing at Colorado Colleges Near Otero County
Hazing is not limited to large universities. It happens at all types of colleges near Otero County, including:
- State universities (e.g., Colorado State University-Pueblo, University of Colorado Colorado Springs)
- Private colleges (e.g., Colorado College, University of Denver)
- Community colleges (e.g., Otero College, Pueblo Community College)
- Military academies (e.g., U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs)
Fraternities and Sororities Near Otero County with Hazing Histories
Many national fraternities and sororities with documented hazing histories operate chapters near Otero County, including:
| Fraternity | Notable Hazing Cases | Colorado Chapters |
|---|---|---|
| Pi Kappa Phi | Waterboarded student (UH, 2025); Andrew Coffey death (FSU, 2017) | CSU-Pueblo, CU Boulder |
| Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) | Chemical burns case (Texas A&M, 2021) | CSU-Fort Collins, CU Boulder |
| Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) | Stone Foltz death (BGSU, 2021); $10M settlement | CU Boulder, CSU-Fort Collins |
| Phi Delta Theta | Maxwell Gruver death (LSU, 2017); $6.1M verdict | CU Boulder |
| Beta Theta Pi | Timothy Piazza death (Penn State, 2017); $110M settlement | CU Boulder |
| Sigma Chi | Hazing lawsuit (College of Charleston, 2024) | CU Boulder, CSU-Fort Collins |
If your child was hazed by any of these organizations near Otero County, we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions for Otero County Families
1. My child was hazed but doesn’t want to sue. Should we still call a lawyer?
Yes. Even if your child doesn’t want to sue, we can:
- Help them report the hazing to the university or police
- Ensure evidence is preserved in case they change their mind
- Advise them on how to protect themselves from retaliation
- Connect them with counseling and support resources
2. Can we sue if the hazing happened off-campus?
Yes. Hazing is illegal on or off campus. If the hazing occurred at a private residence, hotel, or other location near Otero County, the organization and individuals can still be held liable.
3. What if my child was drinking or using drugs during the hazing?
It doesn’t matter. Colorado law states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child was drinking or using drugs, the organization is still responsible for their actions.
4. How much is my hazing case worth?
Every case is unique, but hazing cases often result in multi-million dollar settlements or verdicts. Factors that increase case value include:
- Severity of injuries (hospitalization, surgery, permanent damage)
- Egregiousness of conduct (waterboarding, forced consumption, physical abuse)
- Institutional knowledge (did the university or national organization know about prior hazing?)
- Pattern of abuse (was this a one-time incident, or part of a culture of hazing?)
Our current hazing case seeks $10 million. Otero County families can seek similar compensation.
5. How long will my case take?
Most hazing cases settle within 1-2 years, but complex cases involving multiple defendants (like universities and national organizations) may take longer. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing compensation.
6. What if the fraternity or university tries to blame my child?
We anticipate these defenses and know how to counter them:
- “He agreed to participate” → Consent is not a defense under Colorado law
- “It’s just tradition” → Tradition does not justify illegal activity
- “He could have left” → Fear of retaliation and social pressure negate true consent
- “We didn’t know” → Universities and national organizations are responsible for oversight
7. Can we sue if my child is an international student?
Yes. International students have the same legal rights as U.S. citizens. We have experience representing immigrant and international students in personal injury cases.
8. What if the hazing happened at a military academy near Otero County?
Military academies (like the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs) have unique legal considerations, but hazing is still illegal and actionable. We have experience with federal litigation and can pursue these cases.
9. Do we need a local Otero County lawyer?
No. While some families prefer a local attorney, we have the experience, resources, and willingness to travel to represent Otero County families. We offer:
- Video consultations for remote meetings
- Travel to Otero County for depositions, client meetings, and trials
- Nationwide reach through federal court authority
10. How do we get started?
📞 Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation
📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com
We will:
- Listen to your story
- Evaluate your case
- Explain your legal options
- Fight for the justice your family deserves
Otero County Hazing Resources
Report Hazing in Colorado
- Colorado State University-Pueblo Office of Student Conduct: (719) 549-2092
- University of Colorado Colorado Springs Office of Student Life: (719) 255-3045
- Otero College Student Services: (719) 384-6800
- Colorado Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
Support for Hazing Victims
- National Hazing Prevention Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE
- RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): 1-800-656-HOPE (for sexual abuse)
- Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741 (for mental health support)
Colorado Hazing Laws
- C.R.S. § 18-9-124 (Colorado Hazing Law)
- C.R.S. § 18-1-105 (Consent Not a Defense)
Otero County Families: Enough Is Enough
Hazing has no place in Otero County or anywhere in Colorado. It is not tradition. It is not brotherhood. It is abuse, torture, and sometimes murder.
We are fighting this battle right now in Texas, and we will bring the same fight to Otero County. If your child was hazed, we will hold every responsible party accountable — the fraternity, the university, the individuals, and the insurance companies.
You are not alone. We are here to help.
📞 Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now
📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com
Serving Otero County, Colorado, and nationwide. $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless you win.
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 come pick up this handsome check.” — Donald Wilcox
“If you’re ever in a car accident, I highly recommend you give them a call 10/10. The staff provides great customer service and show they are a firm that cares about their clients!” — Devin Hebert
“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
“We’ve been family friends your whole life! Ha. Thank you for trusting us for over 20 years with your family’s legal emergencies.” — Attorney 911 Response to Ariel Strawn
Contact Attorney 911 – Otero County’s Hazing Lawyers
📍 Serving Otero County from Houston, Austin, and Beaumont
📞 24/7 Legal Emergency Hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911
📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com
🌐 Website: attorney911.com
Free Consultation • No Upfront Costs • We Fight for Otero County Families
© 2025 Attorney 911. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed until a retainer agreement is signed.
