If you’re reading this in Salem County, New Jersey, your family may be facing one of the most terrifying moments of your life. Your child went off to college, perhaps to a campus here in New Jersey or to a university elsewhere, excited for new experiences, to make friends, and to build a future. Instead, they were tortured, abused, and gravely injured by a fraternity or other student organization. We understand what you’re going through, and we want you to know you are not alone. Our firm, Attorney911, is here to help families in Salem County fight back against hazing, just as we are doing right now in a landmark $10 million lawsuit in Houston, Texas.

When a child leaves home for college, whether they are attending nearby colleges like Rowan University in Glassboro, Stockton University in Galloway, or traveling further to institutions like Rutgers University, the University of Pennsylvania, or even the University of Houston in Texas, parents in Salem County expect them to be safe. They expect universities to provide a nurturing environment, and for Greek life organizations to be about fellowship and community, not brutality. However, the dark truth is that hazing is an epidemic, and it is happening right now in communities across the United States, including those frequented by students from Salem County, New Jersey.

We see firsthand the devastation hazing leaves behind – the physical injuries, the deep psychological scars, the families torn apart. That’s why we founded Attorney911: to be the first responders for those facing legal emergencies. Today, that commitment extends to every family in Salem County whose child has been impacted by hazing. We are Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, and we are fiercely dedicated to holding every responsible party accountable, from the individual perpetrators to the national fraternities and negligent universities.

The Haunting Reality of University Hazing: A $10 Million Fight for Justice

The case of Leonel Bermudez against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is not just another lawsuit; it is the centerpiece of everything Attorney911 stands for. It’s a live, ongoing battle in Harris County Civil District Court that vividly illustrates the extreme dangers of hazing today and our aggressive, data-driven approach to obtaining justice for victims. This case happened recently in Houston, just last month, in November 2025. But this type of horror can happen to any student, including those from Salem County, New Jersey, attending any college or university, whether in the Garden State or across the nation.

Leonel Bermudez was a young man with dreams, planning to transfer to the University of Houston for the upcoming semester. He was a “ghost rush,” meaning he wasn’t even an enrolled student yet. He accepted a bid from the Beta Nu chapter of Pi Kappa Phi on September 16, 2025. What followed was an unthinkable seven weeks of systematic abuse, physical torture, and psychological torment that left him hospitalized for four days, battling severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. They did this to someone who wasn’t even their student, demonstrating a reckless disregard for human life that chills us to the core.

When Leonel’s distraught mother rushed him to the hospital on November 6, 2025, he was passing brown urine, a horrifying sign of his muscles breaking down. His creatine kinase levels, a marker of muscle damage, were dangerously high. He couldn’t move or stand on his own. He was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis, a condition where damaged muscle tissue releases proteins into the bloodstream, overwhelming the kidneys and leading to acute kidney failure. For three nights and four days, he was a hospital inpatient fighting for his life, facing the ongoing risk of permanent kidney damage. This is what hazing looks like, and this is what we fight against.

Within weeks of Leonel’s hospitalization, our firm filed a $10 million lawsuit. We named every entity responsible: Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, the local Beta Nu Chapter, the Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation, the University of Houston, the UH Board of Regents, and 13 individual fraternity members, including the chapter president, pledgemaster, and even a former member and his spouse at whose residence some of the hazing took place. This is what aggressive, thorough, data-driven litigation looks like, and this is the relentless pursuit of accountability we bring to every hazing case, including those we would take on for families in Salem County, New Jersey.

The Hazing Activities Exposed in Leonel’s Lawsuit:

Media outlets like ABC13 Houston, KHOU 11, the Houston Chronicle, and Houston Public Media covered Leonel’s story extensively. Each report peeled back another layer of the horrifying abuse he endured:

• Waterboarding: Pledges were subjected to simulated waterboarding with a garden hose, sprayed in the face while doing calisthenics. This is torture—a war crime when done to enemy combatants—yet it was inflicted upon a college student seeking brotherhood.
• Forced Eating Until Vomiting: Leonel and other pledges were forced to consume large amounts of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until they vomited, then ordered to continue running sprints while clearly in physical distress and even lie in their own vomit.
• Extreme Physical Punishment: He endured over 100 pushups, 500 squats, high-volume “suicides,” bear crawls, wheelbarrows, and other exercises until he collapsed, unable to stand without help. He was struck with wooden paddles, forced to perform two-mile warmups and repeated 100-yard crawls. Another pledge even lost consciousness during these grueling workouts on October 15, and still, the hazing continued.
• Psychological Torture & Humiliation: Leonel was made to strip to his underwear in cold weather and carry a fanny pack containing objects of a sexual nature at all times. In another incident on October 13, a different pledge was hog-tied face-down on a table with an object in his mouth for over an hour. He endured threats of physical punishment and expulsion, constant reciting of the fraternity creed under duress, and enforced dress codes, study hours, and weekly interviews.
• Sleep Deprivation: He was forced to drive fraternity members during early morning hours, leading to severe exhaustion that impacted his daily life.

These weren’t harmless pranks or innocent “traditions”; they were acts of premeditated assault and battery that caused life-threatening injuries. As our attorney, Ralph Manginello, told ABC13, “When he finally made it home, he crawled up the stairs and went to bed. The next day, he was really sore and couldn’t really move. The next day was worse, and the next day, his mom rushed him to the hospital, and he had some kidney failure.”

The brazenness of these actions highlights a deeply disturbing culture where fraternities believe they are above the law and beyond accountability. However, we at Attorney911 stand ready to prove them wrong. As Lupe Peña eloquently stated to ABC13, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

The Institutional Response and What It Really Means:

Within weeks of the hazing being reported, the University of Houston’s Pi Kappa Phi chapter was suspended. The national organization confirmed that the members voted to surrender their charter, and the chapter was permanently closed. Criminal referrals were initiated, and the University of Houston spokesperson acknowledged that the events were “deeply disturbing” and represented “a clear violation of our community standards,” noting that “any individual found responsible for hazing will face disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion and potential criminal charges.”

Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters, in their own statement, confirmed they “closed its Beta Nu Chapter effective November 14, 2025, following violations of the Fraternity’s risk management policy and membership conduct standards.” They even brazenly added, “we look forward to returning to campus at the appropriate time.”

Don’t be fooled by their carefully worded statements. The fact that the national organization closed the chapter just seven days before our lawsuit was filed demonstrates a consciousness of guilt and a frantic attempt to distance themselves from the local chapter. Their statement that they “look forward to returning to campus” shows a shocking lack of remorse and a belief that this tragedy is merely a temporary setback. We will not let them get away with it.

This case is a stark warning to parents in Salem County, New Jersey. The same brutal hazing tactics that nearly killed Leonel Bermudez in Houston can occur at institutions attended by your children. The same national fraternities, including Pi Kappa Phi with its 150+ chapters across America, operate at universities throughout New Jersey, such as Rutgers, Rowan, Montclair State, and The College of New Jersey. The same institutional negligence that allowed hazing at the University of Houston exists at countless other campuses. If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority at a college near Salem County, they face these same profound risks. But if they are harmed, we will fight for them with the same aggression and expertise.

What Hazing Really Looks Like: Beyond the Stereotypes

When we talk about hazing, many people in Salem County envision harmless pranks or mild inconveniences, perhaps drawn from outdated movie depictions. However, the tragic reality, as shown in the Bermudez case and countless others across the country, is far more sinister. Hazing today is often about systematic abuse, designed to degrade, control, and injure. It is not about “building brotherhood” or “character”; it is about power, dominance, and often, torture.

Types of Hazing Incidents:

The tactics used in hazing are varied and can leave both physical and emotional scars that last a lifetime:

• Physical Brutality: This can range from sustained beatings and paddling, as Leonel suffered, to branding, burning, sleep deprivation, and forced calisthenics to the point of collapse and organ failure. Other examples include forced physical activities that lead to injuries like broken bones, concussions, or even hypothermia or heat stroke from prolonged exposure.
• Forced Consumption: This often involves excessive alcohol consumption, leading to binge drinking, alcohol poisoning, and death, as seen in many tragic hazing fatalities. But it also includes forced eating until vomiting, or even the consumption of non-food items, designed to humiliate and sicken.
• Psychological Torture: This category encompasses humiliation, degradation, isolation, verbal abuse, and threats. Forcing pledges to wear degrading items, subjecting them to public embarrassment, or instilling fear of retaliation are all forms of psychological hazing that can lead to severe mental health issues like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
• Sexual Abuse: Forced nudity, sexually explicit acts, or the carrying of sexualized objects, as Leonel was forced to do, are unfortunately common forms of hazing that constitute sexual abuse and can have devastating, long-lasting consequences for victims.
• Sleep Deprivation: Pledges are often intentionally deprived of sleep through late-night activities, early morning demands, or constant harassment, leading to exhaustion that compromises their physical and mental well-being, and can even contribute to accidents.
• Servitude and Isolation: Being forced to perform chores, errands, or drive members around at all hours, combined with restrictions on communicating with the outside world, effectively isolates pledges and prevents them from seeking help.

The Medical and Psychological Aftermath:

The physical and emotional toll of hazing can be severe. In Leonel’s case, extreme physical exertion led to rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, conditions that can cause permanent organ damage or even death. Other victims suffer:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries: From falls or blunt force trauma.
• Alcohol Poisoning: A leading cause of hazing deaths.
• Internal Injuries: From beatings or forced consumption.
• Hypothermia or Heat Stroke: From prolonged exposure.

Beyond the visible injuries, the psychological impact is often profound. Victims frequently experience:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety.
• Depression and Anxiety Disorders: Leading to academic decline, social withdrawal, or even suicidal ideation.
• Substance Abuse: As a coping mechanism for trauma.
• Erosion of Trust: Making it difficult to form healthy relationships.

The culture of silence surrounding hazing prevents many victims from coming forward. They fear retaliation, social ostracization, or damage to their academic or social standing. This fear is real, as our client Leonel expressed his fear of retribution to ABC13. But we want every victim in Salem County and beyond to know that you are not alone, and we are here to support you in breaking that silence and finding justice.

Who Is Really Responsible for Hazing Injuries? Everyone Who Participated or Allowed It.

When hazing incidents occur, fraternities and universities often try to minimize their responsibility, blaming individual students or claiming ignorance. However, our aggressive legal strategy is designed to hold liable every entity and individual who played a role, directly or indirectly, in the harm caused. In Leonel Bermudez’s case, we cast a wide net, ensuring that all deep pockets and negligent parties are brought to justice.

Here’s who can be held responsible in a hazing lawsuit:

1. The Local Fraternity or Sorority Chapter:
   The chapter itself, as an organized entity, is directly liable for the activities it plans and conducts. This includes the officers who organize events and the members who actively participate, knowing full well these activities are hazing. In Leonel’s case, the Beta Nu Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi organized and executed the brutal hazing rituals.

2. The National Fraternity or Sorority Organization:
   These national bodies often present themselves as benevolent overseers, promoting safe practices. However, they are ultimately responsible for the conduct of their local chapters. They set policies, provide training, and have the power to intervene. When they fail to adequately supervise, enforce anti-hazing rules, or respond to patterns of abuse, they are liable. In the Bermudez case, Pi Kappa Phi National Headquarters is a key defendant because they knew about a “hazing crisis” and failed to enforce policies, leading to yet another severe injury after years of documented hazing tragedies within their organization, such as the death of Andrew Coffey in 2017. These organizations typically have multi-million dollar insurance policies and vast assets, making them primary targets for significant compensation.

3. The University or College:
   Universities have a fundamental duty to provide a safe environment for their students. This duty extends to overseeing student organizations, including Greek life. When universities own or control fraternity houses, as the University of Houston did in Leonel’s case, their liability is even clearer. They have the power to regulate, inspect, suspend, or remove organizations that violate anti-hazing policies, and their failure to do so constitutes negligence. The University of Houston is a major defendant because they owned the very house where some of the hazing took place, and they had a prior history of hazing hospitalizations on their campus in 2017, demonstrating a knowing failure to act.

4. Individual Chapter Officers and Members:
   Every person who actively participates in, directs, or enables hazing can be held personally responsible. This includes the chapter president, pledgemaster (who often orchestrates the hazing), and other active members. The $6.5 million judgment against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president in the Stone Foltz case, is a stark reminder that individual members cannot hide behind the fraternity’s shield. For families in Salem County, it’s important to know that these individuals, including those who host hazing events at their residences, can be named as defendants.

5. Chapter Housing Corporations and Alumni Boards:
   Often, separate legal entities exist to own or manage fraternity houses. These housing corporations, along with alumni boards, can be liable for failing to prevent hazing on their properties or for their role in perpetuating a culture that condones it. In Leonel’s case, the Pi Kappa Phi Housing Corporation is a defendant, along with a former member and his spouse who allowed hazing events to occur at their private residence.

6. Insurance Carriers:
   Ultimately, the compensation often comes from the liability insurance policies held by the national organizations, universities, and sometimes the homeowners’ or renters’ insurance of individual defendants. Our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, both former insurance defense attorneys, have invaluable insider knowledge of how these companies operate, value claims, and attempt to deny payouts. This experience gives us a significant advantage in dismantling their defenses and maximizing recovery for victims.

By meticulously identifying and pursuing all these parties, we ensure that every entity culpable in a hazing incident is brought before the court. This comprehensive approach is how we secure the maximum possible compensation for our clients and send an unequivocal message that hazing will not be tolerated. For Salem County families, this means that even if a local chapter closes its doors, we will pursue the deep pockets of the national organization and the university, wherever they may be.

What Hazing Cases Win: Multi-Million Dollar Proof Points for Justice

The idea of taking on powerful national fraternities and multi-billion dollar universities might seem daunting to families in Salem County, New Jersey. But we want you to know that justice is possible, and families across the country have successfully recovered multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in hazing cases. These precedent cases empower victims, send a clear message to negligent institutions, and often lead to vital legislative change. Our $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston is directly aligned with these successful strategies.

Here are some landmark cases that demonstrate what is possible when families stand up and fight:

Stone Foltz — Bowling Green State University / Pi Kappa Alpha (2021) — Over $10.1 Million

• What Happened: In March 2021, Stone Foltz, a pledge at Bowling Green State University, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a “Big/Little” initiation. He died from alcohol poisoning.
• The Outcome: This tragedy resulted in a combined settlement of over $10.1 million. Bowling Green State University paid $2.9 million, and Pi Kappa Alpha national fraternity along with individual members contributed $7.2 million. Most recently, in December 2024, a judgment of $6.5 million was personally rendered against Daylen Dunson, the former chapter president, further emphasizing individual accountability. This remains the largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history.
• Significance for Salem County Families: This case shows that both universities and national fraternities face significant financial liability. Our $10 million demand in the Bermudez case is well within the realm of what has been achieved for hazing victims.

Maxwell Gruver — Louisiana State University / Phi Delta Theta (2017) — $6.1 Million Verdict

• What Happened: In September 2017, Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman at LSU, died from acute alcohol poisoning (his BAC was 0.495—more than six times the legal limit) during a Phi Delta Theta pledge event called “Bible Study,” where pledges were forced to drink heavily for incorrect answers.
• The Outcome: A jury awarded the Gruver family $6.1 million. This case also led to criminal convictions, including a negligent homicide charge, and inspired the “Max Gruver Act,” which made hazing a felony in Louisiana.
• Significance for Salem County Families: This verdict proves that juries are willing to award millions for hazing deaths, sending a powerful message that “boys will be boys” is no longer an acceptable defense.

Timothy Piazza — Penn State University / Beta Theta Pi (2017) — Over $110 Million in Settlements

• What Happened: In February 2017, Timothy Piazza, a Penn State pledge, was forced to drink 18 alcoholic drinks in 82 minutes during a Beta Theta Pi ritual. Grossly intoxicated, he fell down a flight of stairs, suffering a traumatic brain injury and internal bleeding. Fraternity brothers waited 12 hours before calling 911. Security cameras captured the entire horrific event.
• The Outcome: The Piazza family secured over $110 million in confidential settlements from various parties. Additionally, 18 fraternity members were charged with crimes, with multiple convictions for involuntary manslaughter and hazing. The tragedy spurred Pennsylvania’s “Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law,” a landmark piece of legislation.
• Significance for Salem County Families: This case demonstrates that with compelling evidence, such as the detailed documentation we have in the Bermudez case, settlements can reach staggering amounts. It also highlights the potential for widespread criminal charges and lasting legislative change.

Andrew Coffey — Florida State University / Pi Kappa Phi (2017) — Confidential Settlement

• What Happened: In November 2017, Andrew Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during a Pi Kappa Phi “Big Brother Night” ritual at Florida State University, where he was forced to drink an entire bottle of bourbon.
• The Outcome: Nine fraternity members were charged, and the chapter was permanently closed. The Coffey family reached a confidential civil settlement.
• Significance for Salem County Families: This case is particularly crucial to the Bermudez lawsuit because it involves the same national fraternity, Pi Kappa Phi, that nearly killed Leonel. Andrew Coffey’s death eight years prior proves that Pi Kappa Phi National had explicit knowledge of deadly hazing within its chapters and utterly failed to implement effective safeguards, leading directly to Leonel’s hospitalization. This establishes a clear pattern of negligence and conscious indifference.

These cases, along with others like Adam Oakes at VCU ($4+ million settlement in 2024) and the pending lawsuit against Sigma Chi at UT Austin (filed the same week as Bermudez’s case for a hazing death by suicide), illustrate a national pattern of accountability. Attorney911 is currently leveraging this extensive history of verdicts and settlements in our aggressive pursuit of justice for Leonel Bermudez. For families in Salem County, New Jersey, whose children have been harmed by hazing, these precedents confirm that a strong legal case, built upon meticulous evidence and aggressive representation, can achieve multi-million dollar outcomes and force meaningful change.

Texas Law Protects You: Understanding Anti-Hazing Statutes

Hazing is not just morally reprehensible; it is illegal. While our firm is headquartered in Texas, nearly every state in the nation, including New Jersey, has anti-hazing laws. These statutes provide a crucial legal framework for both criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits, giving victims and their families the power to fight back. For Salem County residents, understanding these laws, especially as they relate to our current litigation in Texas, can illuminate your path to justice.

Texas Hazing Laws: Education Code §§ 37.151-37.157

The Texas Education Code is explicit in its condemnation of hazing, defining it broadly and imposing clear penalties. The hazing Leonel Bermudez endured falls squarely within this legal definition, and similar actions would violate New Jersey’s anti-hazing laws, such as “Timothy’s Law.”

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

• Involves physical brutality: Such as whipping, beating, striking, or branding. This directly covers the wooden paddles and forced physical abuse Leonel suffered.
• Involves sleep deprivation, exposure, or calisthenics: Any activity that subjects a student to an unreasonable risk of harm or adversely affects their health. The extreme calisthenics, sleep deprivation, and being sprayed with a hose in cold weather suffered by Leonel are clear violations.
• Involves forced consumption: Of food, liquid, alcohol, or other substances that pose an unreasonable risk of harm. The forced eating until vomiting for Leonel is a textbook example.
• Requires violation of the Penal Code: Any activity that forces a student to commit a crime.
• Involves coercing consumption of drugs or alcohol: In intoxicating amounts.

Leonel Bermudez’s experience directly satisfies multiple elements of this statutory definition, leaving no doubt that the Pi Kappa Phi members and chapter engaged in criminal hazing.

Consent is NOT a Defense (§ 37.154):
This is perhaps the most critical aspect of anti-hazing law. Texas law explicitly states: “It is not a defense to prosecution… that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”
This statute directly addresses the insidious defense often raised by fraternities: that pledges willingly participated or “consented” to the rituals. The law recognizes that true consent cannot exist in an environment of extreme peer pressure, coercion, and threats. This principle is vital for any hazing victim from Salem County, regardless of where the hazing occurred.

Criminal Penalties (§ 37.152):
Hazing carries severe criminal penalties in Texas:

• Class B Misdemeanor: For engaging in hazing, soliciting, aiding, or failing to report hazing ($2,000 fine, up to 180 days jail).
• Class A Misdemeanor: If hazing causes serious bodily injury ($4,000 fine, up to 1 year jail). Leonel’s rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure definitively constitute serious bodily injury, meaning the perpetrators face these charges.
• State Jail Felony: If hazing causes death ($10,000 fine, 180 days to 2 years in state jail).

The University of Houston’s statement about “potential criminal charges” underscores the severity of the alleged conduct under Texas law.

Organizational Liability (§ 37.153):
The law also holds organizations accountable. An organization commits an offense if it condones or encourages hazing, or if its officers, members, pledges, or alumni commit or assist in hazing. Penalties can include fines up to $10,000 and even denial of permission to operate on campus. This is why we sued Pi Kappa Phi’s local chapter and national organization.

University Reporting Requirements (§ 37.155):
Chief administrative officers of Texas educational institutions must report hazing incidents to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board within 30 days, or face Class B Misdemeanor charges. This compels transparency and official acknowledgment from universities.

Civil Liability: Beyond Criminal Prosecution

While criminal charges punish the perpetrators, civil lawsuits are essential for victims to recover compensation for their injuries and losses. These civil claims are not exclusive to Texas; they exist across the U.S. and are the focus of our hazing litigation:

• Negligence: This is the cornerstone of most personal injury claims. We argue that the university, national fraternity, and local chapter had a duty to protect students, breached that duty by allowing hazing, and that this breach directly caused the victim’s injuries and damages. This theory is applicable whether the hazing occurs in Salem County or elsewhere.
• Premises Liability: If hazing occurs on property owned or controlled by the university or fraternity housing corporation, they can be held liable for maintaining an unsafe environment. The University of Houston owned the Pi Kappa Phi house where Leonel was tortured, making this a powerful claim.
• Negligent Supervision: This claim targets the failure of national organizations and universities to adequately oversee local chapters and Greek life, leading to foreseeable harm. Their prior knowledge of hazing incidents, as seen in both Pi Kappa Phi’s national history and UH’s campus history, strengthens this claim.
• Assault and Battery: Individual members who inflicted physical harm or forced participation in dangerous acts can be sued for intentional torts like assault and battery, leading to personal liability.
• Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED): When the hazing conduct is so extreme and outrageous that it causes severe emotional anguish, victims can pursue IIED claims. Waterboarding and other forms of psychological torture clearly fall into this category.
• Wrongful Death: In the most tragic cases, families can file wrongful death lawsuits to recover for their profound losses, including loss of companionship, financial support, and funeral expenses, often seeking punitive damages.

For families in Salem County, New Jersey, these legal avenues mean that even if local criminal prosecutions are slow or encounter challenges, a civil lawsuit can still move forward aggressively to secure justice and hold all responsible parties accountable. We are equipped to pursue these claims nationwide, offering remote consultations and traveling for depositions or trials as needed, ensuring that geography is never a barrier to justice.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why Salem County Families Choose Us

When your family in Salem County, New Jersey, is facing the unimaginable trauma of a hazing incident, choosing the right legal representation is paramount. You need attorneys who are not just competent, but aggressive, deeply knowledgeable, and genuinely committed to fighting for your child’s rights. Attorney911 offers a unique set of advantages that position us as the premier choice for hazing victims, whether the incident occurred locally at a New Jersey university or across the country.

Experience That Matters: Not Just Lawyers, but Legal Emergency First Responders

We are Attorney911, Legal Emergency Lawyers™. When a legal emergency strikes—especially a devastating hazing incident—we move first, fast, and decisively. We understand the urgency, the emotional toll, and the critical need for immediate action to preserve evidence and protect your rights. Our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont serve hazing victims nationwide, and we are ready to bring our expertise to Salem County families.

1. Battle-Tested Courtroom Experience (25+ Years):

Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, brings over 25 years of intensive courtroom experience. He has faced down massive corporate defendants in high-stakes litigation, such as the BP Texas City Explosion case, which involved 15 deaths and over 180 injuries. This experience against formidable opponents is directly transferable to hazing cases against powerful national fraternities and multi-billion dollar universities. When you choose us in Salem County, you’re not just getting a lawyer; you’re getting a seasoned trial attorney who has dedicated his career to fighting for victims.

2. Insider Knowledge: Former Insurance Defense Attorneys:

Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are former insurance defense attorneys. This is a critical advantage. Lupe Peña, in particular, worked for a national insurance defense firm, Litchfield Cavo LLP, where he learned the playbook of insurance companies from the inside. He knows exactly how they value claims, strategize defenses, and attempt to minimize or deny payouts. Now, he uses that insider knowledge against them, dismantling their defenses and maximizing recovery for our clients. This “insurance counter-intelligence system” means we anticipate their moves and stay several steps ahead, leveraging every advantage for a family in Salem County.

3. Federal Court Authority & Dual-State Bar Admissions:

Our attorneys are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, providing federal court authority. Ralph is also licensed in both Texas and New York. This dual-state licensure is a strategic advantage, especially when dealing with national fraternities that have headquarters or significant operations in different states. It means we can pursue cases in federal jurisdiction and navigate complex legal landscapes involving national organizations, no matter where they are based, offering comprehensive representation to Salem County victims.

4. Hazing Litigation Expertise — Currently in the Trenches:

We aren’t just theoretically interested in hazing cases; we are actively litigating a $10 million lawsuit for Leonel Bermudez against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston RIGHT NOW. This isn’t theoretical; this is real-time, aggressive representation. Ralph has specific expertise in rhabdomyolysis hazing cases, such as Leonel’s, and wrongful death cases resulting from hazing. Our strategies are proven and current, directly applicable to any hazing incident affecting a Salem County family.

5. Unwavering Commitment to Accountability:

We approach hazing cases with righteous fury because we’ve seen the devastating impact on students and families. From Pi Kappa Phi’s history of a death in 2017 (Andrew Coffey) to UH’s prior hazing hospitalization in 2017 (Jared Munoz), we meticulously build cases that expose patterns of negligence and hold institutions accountable. Our goal is not just compensation, but to create meaningful change and prevent future tragedies for other Salem County students.

6. Compassionate, Client-Centered Approach:

We understand that families dealing with hazing are in immense pain. Our staff is bilingual (Se Habla Español), friendly, and genuinely passionate about helping. We treat our clients like family, offering direct communication and transparent processes. As one client testimonial states, “You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them and they protect and fight for you as such.” We will extend this same warmth and dedication to every family in Salem County.

7. Financial Accessibility: Contingency Fees:

We know that the financial burden of a legal fight can be overwhelming, especially when faced with medical bills and lost income. That’s why we take hazing cases on contingency. This means Salem County families pay $0 upfront. We don’t get paid unless and until you get paid. This ensures that expert legal representation is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation, leveling the playing field against well-funded institutions. We take the financial risk so you don’t have to.

8. Nationwide Reach & Local Touch:

While headquartered in Houston, our commitment to justice for hazing victims extends nationwide. We regularly conduct video consultations with clients across the country and are prepared to travel to Salem County for depositions, client meetings, and trials whenever necessary. Distance is not a barrier to seeking justice, and we ensure that Salem County families receive the same high-quality representation we provide to our local clients.

“I started Attorney911 to make sure people suffering from a legal emergency received immediate, aggressive, and professional help from someone they could trust,” says Ralph Manginello. For Salem County families whose lives have been shattered by hazing, we are that trusted advocate. We don’t just talk about hazing; we’re actively fighting it right now, and we’re ready to fight for you.

What to Do Right Now: Actionable Steps for Salem County Families

Discovering that your child has been subjected to hazing can be an overwhelming and terrifying experience. The shock, anger, and fear can be paralyzing. However, the actions you take immediately following a hazing incident can profoundly impact the success of any legal claim. For families in Salem County, New Jersey, acting quickly and strategically is paramount to preserving evidence and protecting your child’s rights. We understand the trauma, and we’re here to guide you through these critical first steps.

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Safety and Medical Care

Your child’s physical and mental well-being is the absolute priority.

• Remove Your Child from the Situation Immediately: If they are still in an unsafe environment, ensure they are removed and safe. This might involve physically going to the campus or fraternity house if necessary.
• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get your child to a doctor or emergency room as soon as possible. Some hazing injuries, like rhabdomyolysis or internal damage, may not be immediately obvious but can be life-threatening. Explicitly tell medical staff that the injuries resulted from a hazing incident, and ensure this is documented in their medical records. Keep copies of all medical bills, doctors’ notes, and discharge instructions.
• Address Psychological Trauma: Hazing causes severe emotional and psychological distress. Seek counseling or therapy for your child with a qualified mental health professional. Documentation of psychological harm is crucial for compensation related to mental anguish and emotional distress.

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence (The “Document Everything” Rule)

Evidence in hazing cases can disappear quickly, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Every piece of information, no matter how small, can be vital to building a strong case.

• Take Photos and Videos:
  • Injuries: Photograph all physical injuries (bruises, cuts, burns, rashes, swelling) at every stage of healing, from immediately after the incident through recovery.
  • Hazing Locations: If safe to do so, photograph the locations where hazing occurred, including fraternity houses, basements, remote fields, or other settings.
  • Physical Evidence: Capture images of anything used during the hazing, such as specific clothing, objects, or excessive amounts of alcohol.
• Preserve All Communications:
  • Text Messages, GroupMe, Snapchat Chats, Instagram DMs: These digital conversations often contain direct evidence of hazing instructions, threats, derogatory comments, or cover-up attempts. DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING. Screenshot relevant conversations, as these platforms can auto-delete content.
  • Emails: Save any emails related to the fraternity, pledging, or the hazing incident.
  • Voicemails/Audio Recordings: Preserve any recorded verbal communications.
• Identify Witnesses: Write down the names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the hazing, even if they were participants, as well as anyone your child confided in. Their testimony can be invaluable.
• Collect Documents: Gather any pledge manuals, schedules, rules, or initiation documents provided by the organization.
• Financial and Academic Records: Keep records of any medical bills, lost wages (if applicable), and any impact on academic performance or enrollment that resulted from the hazing.

Step 3: Crucial “DO NOTs” to Protect Your Case

In the immediate aftermath, certain actions can inadvertently harm your legal claim.

• DO NOT Delete Anything: Never delete text messages, social media posts, or any other digital evidence. This could be considered spoliation of evidence and severely damage your case.
• DO NOT Talk to the Fraternity/Sorority, University, or Their Lawyers Without Legal Counsel: They are not on your side. Their goal is to protect themselves and minimize liability. Anything you or your child says can be used against you. Direct all inquiries through your attorney.
• DO NOT Sign Any Documents: Never sign a release, waiver, or any other document from the organization, university, or their insurance companies without first consulting with your attorney. You could unknowingly waive your legal rights.
• DO NOT Post About the Incident on Social Media: Anything posted publicly can be discovered and used by the defense to undermine your credibility or claim of distress. It’s best to stay off social media entirely regarding the incident until advised by counsel. As our video “Don’t Post on Social Media After an Accident” warns, “STAY OFF SOCIAL MEDIA. Anything you post can be used against you.”
• DO NOT Make Retribution Threats or Engagements: While anger is understandable, do not threaten or engage in any acts of retaliation against individuals or the organization.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Hazing Litigation Attorney Immediately

This is perhaps the most important step. Time is of the essence in hazing cases.

• Statute of Limitations: In New Jersey, as in most states, there is a limited window (typically two years) to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline means losing your right to sue forever. Our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” emphasizes that “If you miss the deadline, you lose your right to sue forever.”
• Evidence Disappears: With each passing day, crucial evidence can be destroyed or forgotten. Fraternities and universities may act quickly to clean up their tracks.
• Expert Guidance: You need attorneys who understand the complexities of hazing litigation, including the laws, the liable parties, and how to effectively negotiate with powerful institutions.

For families in Salem County, New Jersey, Attorney911 can provide immediate, aggressive, and expert legal help. We offer free consultations 24/7, and because we work on a contingency fee basis, there are no upfront costs to you. We are ready to listen, advise, and fight for your child’s justice.

Contact Attorney911 Today: Your First Call in a Hazing Emergency

If your child has been a victim of hazing, whether at a university near Salem County, New Jersey, or anywhere across the nation, you are facing a legal emergency. The pain, anger, and confusion can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face this alone. Attorney911 stands ready to be your first responders, bringing aggressive representation and unparalleled expertise to your fight for justice.

Our attorneys are currently taking on Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston in a $10 million lawsuit for what they did to Leonel Bermudez. This isn’t theoretical; this is real-time, in-the-trenches litigation that demonstrates our commitment to every hazing victim and our ability to hold powerful institutions accountable. Families in Salem County, New Jersey, deserve the same relentless advocacy.

Salem County Families: Call Us Now for a Free, Confidential Consultation

We understand the urgency of your situation. Hazing incidents require immediate action to preserve critical evidence and protect your child’s legal rights. That’s why our legal emergency hotline is available 24/7.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

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

No matter the hour, no matter the day, we are here for Salem County families.

No Upfront Costs: We Don’t Get Paid Unless You Do

We believe that access to justice should never be limited by financial constraints. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay $0 upfront. There are no attorney fees to begin your case.
• We don’t get paid unless and until you get paid. Our interests are completely aligned with yours.
• We bear the financial risk of litigation, allowing you to focus on your child’s recovery without added stress.

This contingency fee arrangement ensures that even against multi-billion dollar universities and national fraternities with vast resources, families in Salem County, New Jersey, can afford top-tier legal representation.

Nationwide Reach, Personalized Attention for Salem County Victims

While our headquarters are in Houston, Texas, our dedication to hazing victims knows no geographical bounds. Hazing is a national crisis, and we are equipped to support families across America, including those in Salem County.

• Remote Consultations: We offer convenient and confidential video consultations, allowing you to speak directly with our attorneys from the comfort of your home in Salem County, New Jersey. Your privacy and ease are our priority.
• Federal Court Authority: Our admission to U.S. District Courts provides us with the authority to pursue hazing cases in federal jurisdiction, which is often necessary when dealing with national organizations.
• Dual-State Bar Licenses: Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas and New York, offering a strategic advantage and broader legal reach when confronting national fraternities and universities.
• Willingness to Travel: When needed, our attorneys will travel to Salem County, New Jersey, for client meetings, depositions, or trial proceedings. Distance will never be a barrier to securing justice for your child.

Who We Represent: No Hazing Incident Is Too Complex

We represent all victims of hazing, wherever it may occur. This includes:

• Students hazed in fraternities and sororities at universities throughout New Jersey, such as Rowan University, Stockton University, Rutgers University, Princeton University, Montclair State University, and The College of New Jersey.
• Victims of hazing on college sports teams, marching bands, ROTC programs, or other student organizations.
• Victims in military academies or other institutions where abuse is veiled as “initiation.”

Your Call Can Bring Accountability

When Lupe Peña says, “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough,” he means it. Your decision to pursue legal action in Salem County, New Jersey, can do more than just secure justice and compensation for your family; it can force institutions to change, saving countless other students from similar torment.

The clock is ticking. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and statutes of limitations expire. Do not let fear, loyalty, or the tactics of powerful organizations prevent you from seeking justice.

Call Attorney911 today. Let us turn your pain into a powerful fight for accountability.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com | attorney911.com