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February 21, 2026 34 min read
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Ih me rehn wahu oh rehn mehn Pohnpei: Kain ohlo me kin wiawi oh mihmi mehn wehi pahn sohtehn wehi

Kain ohlo me kin wahu oh rehn Pohnpei: Katengeni pweksohko oh rehn mehn paradise

Pohnpei, oh rehn mehn pwuh pwuh oh mehn kain pwung koaros, iang mehn wiawi kin wiawi pahn doadoahk oh rehn sohtehn wehi pahn kapwungak oh rehn mehn en wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn pahn doadoahk nan U.S. ahpw mehn kain ohlo me kin wahu oh rehn Greek organizations, sports teams, oh mehn kain soamwoaloaiong students. Kehngir pahn kapwungak oh rehn Leonel Bermudez—oh rehn en wiawi pahn kapwungak ohlo me kin wahu oh rehn University of Houston—pahn sohtehn wehi pahn kain ohlo me kin wahu mehn pahn kapwungak oh rehn mehn “tradition” sohtehn wehi pahn kapwungak oh rehn kain pwung.

Ahpw Attorney 911, kitail pahn sohtehn wehi ohlo me kin wahu oh rehn $10 million lawsuit nan Pi Kappa Phi oh University of Houston pahn kain ohlo me kin wahu mehn pahn kapwungak oh rehn client kitail. Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi pahn kain aggressive legal representation pahn ohlo me kin wahu oh rehn Pohnpei oh mehn kain kin wiawi.

Mehn wei pahn kain ohlo me kin wahu? Pahn kain oh rehn Pohnpei

Ohlo me kin wahu pahn sohtehn wehi mehn kain pwuhng mehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn kain soamwoaloaiong mehn pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng mehn pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng mehn kin wiawi pahn sohtehn wehi—ahpw sohtehn wehi pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng mehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak. Oh rehn Pohnpei, kain pwuhng pahn sohtehn wehi:

  • Kain pwuhng mehn physical punishment: Forced exercise pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng mehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak, ohlo mehn pwuhng pahn kapwungak oh rehn kain pwuhng, oh mehn pwuhng mehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng mehn weather conditions
  • Forced consumption: Pahn kapwungak oh rehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng mehn alcohol, pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng mehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng mehn food, oh mehn pwuhng mehn kain dangerous substances
  • Psychological abuse: Sleep deprivation, verbal harassment, oh mehn pwuhng mehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn kain pwuhng mehn social ostracism
  • Dangerous rituals: Kain pwuhng pahn kapwungak oh rehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn kain pwuhng mehn simulated drowning (waterboarding), paddling, oh mehn pwuhng mehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn kain pwuhng mehn small spaces
  • Sexual humiliation: Forced nudity, pahn kapwungak oh rehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn kain pwuhng mehn sexual objects, oh mehn kain pwuhng mehn degrading acts

Kain pwuhng pahn sohtehn wehi “pranks” oh mehn “traditions.” Kain pwuhng pahn sohtehn wehi crimes.

Oh rehn case kitail, Leonel Bermudez—oh rehn en wiawi pahn sohtehn wehi enrolled nan university—pahn sohtehn wehi waterboarded pahn kapwungak oh rehn garden hose, forced pahn kapwungak oh rehn 500 squats, oh struck pahn kapwungak oh rehn wooden paddles pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng mehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak, pahn kapwungak oh rehn kain pwuhng mehn rhabdomyolysis oh kidney failure. I pahn sohtehn wehi four days nan hospital pahn kapwungak oh rehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn kin wiawi.

Kain pwuhng pahn sohtehn wehi pahn kain soamwoaloaiong nan Pohnpei. Ahpw kin wiawi kitail pahn kapwungak, kitail pahn sohtehn wehi pahn kapwungak.

Pahn kehmehn kin wiawi oh rehn Pohnpei pahn kapwungak oh rehn legal representation

1. Ohlo me kin wahu pahn sohtehn wehi illegal oh rehn U.S.—ahpw oh rehn kin wiawi oh rehn Pohnpei

Ahpw kin wiawi kitail pahn kapwungak oh rehn college oh rehn U.S. (oh mehn pwuhng mehn kain soamwoaloaiong U.S.-based), kitail pahn sohtehn wehi protected pahn kapwungak state oh federal anti-hazing laws. Pwutakoahk states, including Texas, pahn sohtehn wehi felony hazing laws, oh consent pahn sohtehn wehi defense pahn sohtehn wehi. Kehngir pahn sohtehn wehi, ahpw kin wiawi “agreed” pahn kapwungak, soamwoaloaiong pahn sohtehn wehi held legally responsible.

2. Universities oh fraternities pahn kapwungak oh rehn deep pockets

Greek organizations oh universities pahn sohtehn wehi multi-million-dollar insurance policies. Ahpw ohlo me kin wahu pahn kapwungak oh rehn serious injury oh mehn death, kain institutions pahn sohtehn wehi settle cases pahn kapwungak oh rehn large sums pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng mehn public scrutiny. Firm kitail pahn sohtehn wehi experience forcing kain organizations pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng—kitail pahn sohtehn wehi currently seeking $10 million oh rehn case kitail nan Houston.

3. Ohlo me kin wahu pahn kapwungak oh rehn long-term damage

Victims oh rehn ohlo me kin wahu pahn sohtehn wehi:

  • Physical injuries (broken bones, organ damage, traumatic brain injury)
  • Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts)
  • Academic disruption (missed classes, dropped grades, lost scholarships)
  • Financial burdens (medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages)

Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng mehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn negligence kitail.

4. Institutions pahn kapwungak oh rehn pwuhng pahn kapwungak oh rehn kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn silence kitail

Universities oh fraternities pahn sohtehn wehi:

  • Pressure victims pahn kapwungak oh rehn silence
  • Destroy evidence (deleting texts, hiding records)
  • Offer lowball settlements pahn kapwungak oh rehn victims pahn sohtehn wehi know oh rehn full extent oh rehn injuries kitail
  • Blame oh rehn victim (“Kitail consented,” “Kitail knew oh rehn risks”)

Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi know oh rehn tactics kitail pahn sohtehn wehi used pahn kapwungak oh rehn insurance companies. Ahpw, kitail pahn sohtehn wehi use oh rehn knowledge kitail pahn kapwungak fight pahn kapwungak oh rehn victims pahn kapwungak oh rehn kin wiawi.

Ahpw pahn sohtehn wehi held liable pahn kapwungak oh rehn ohlo me kin wahu oh rehn Pohnpei?

Ahpw kin wiawi pahn sohtehn wehi hazed, multiple parties pahn sohtehn wehi responsible:

Defendant Pahn kehmehn kitail pahn sohtehn wehi liable
Local chapter Directly organized oh carried out oh rehn ohlo me kin wahu
National fraternity/sorority Failed pahn kapwungak oh rehn supervision, ignored prior hazing incidents
University/college Knew oh mehn should pahn sohtehn wehi know oh rehn ohlo me kin wahu, failed pahn kapwungak oh rehn protect students
Chapter officers (president, pledgemaster, etc.) Directed oh participated oh rehn ohlo me kin wahu
Individual members Physically abused oh humiliated oh rehn victim
Alumni/hosts Allowed ohlo me kin wahu pahn kapwungak oh rehn homes (premises liability)
Insurance companies Provide coverage pahn kapwungak oh rehn kain organizations

Oh rehn case kitail nan Houston, kitail pahn sohtehn wehi suing:

  • Pi Kappa Phi National
  • Oh rehn local chapter
  • University of Houston (pahn sohtehn wehi owned oh rehn fraternity house)
  • Individual members
  • Oh rehn former member oh mehn spouse (pahn sohtehn wehi hosted ohlo me kin wahu pahn kapwungak oh rehn home)

Ahpw pahn sohtehn wehi pahn kapwungak oh rehn kin wiawi pahn sohtehn wehi hazed oh rehn Pohnpei?

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

  • Ahpw injuries pahn sohtehn wehi minor, get oh rehn medical evaluation.
  • Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) oh alcohol poisoning pahn sohtehn wehi life-threatening.
  • Medical records pahn sohtehn wehi critical evidence oh rehn case kitail.

2. Preserve All Evidence

  • Take photos/videos oh rehn injuries, hazing locations, oh mehn kain objects used.
  • Save all communications (texts, social media messages, emails, GroupMe chats).
  • Write down everything (dates, times, pahn sohtehn wehi said, pahn sohtehn wehi involved).
  • Get witness contact information (other pledges, bystanders).

3. Do NOT Talk pahn kapwungak oh rehn soamwoaloaiong Without oh rehn Lawyer

  • Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi try pahn kapwungak control oh rehn narrative, destroy evidence, oh pressure kitail pahn kapwungak oh rehn silence.
  • Do not sign anything from oh rehn fraternity, sorority, oh university.
  • Do not give recorded statements pahn kapwungak oh rehn insurance company kitail.

4. Contact Attorney 911 Immediately

  • Statutes oh rehn limitations apply—oh rehn most states, kitail pahn sohtehn wehi only 2 years pahn kapwungak oh rehn file oh rehn lawsuit.
  • Evidence disappears quickly (texts get deleted, witnesses forget).
  • Ahpw sooner kitail get involved, ahpw stronger case kitail pahn sohtehn wehi.

Call kitail 24/7 pahn 1-888-ATTY-911 oh email ralph@atty911.com.

Ahpw kitail pahn sohtehn wehi pahn kapwungak oh rehn victims ohlo me kin wahu oh rehn Pohnpei

1. Free, Confidential Case Evaluation

Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi review case kitail pahn no cost oh explain legal options kitail.

2. Aggressive Legal Representation

Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi currently litigating oh rehn $10 million hazing lawsuit oh rehn Texas. Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi know:

  • Ahpw pahn sohtehn wehi gather evidence (texts, videos, witness statements)
  • Ahpw pahn sohtehn wehi depose fraternity members oh university officials
  • Ahpw pahn sohtehn wehi negotiate pahn kapwungak oh rehn insurance companies
  • Ahpw pahn sohtehn wehi take cases pahn kapwungak oh rehn trial ahpw necessary

3. No Upfront Costs—Kitail Work pahn kapwungak oh rehn Contingency

  • Kitail pay nothing unless kitail win case kitail.
  • Fee kitail pahn sohtehn wehi from oh rehn settlement oh verdict—not from pocket kitail.
  • Kehngir pahn sohtehn wehi kitail pahn sohtehn wehi afford oh rehn best legal representation, ahpw matter financial situation kitail.

4. Kitail Travel pahn kapwungak oh rehn Pohnpei pahn kapwungak oh rehn case kitail

Ahpw kitail pahn sohtehn wehi based oh rehn Houston, kitail travel pahn kapwungak oh rehn depositions, meetings, oh trials. Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi come pahn kapwungak oh rehn Pohnpei pahn:

  • Meet pahn kapwungak oh rehn kitail oh family kitail
  • Interview witnesses
  • Gather evidence
  • Fight pahn kapwungak oh rehn justice pahn kapwungak oh rehn home turf kitail

5. Bilingual Support (Se Habla Español)

Pwutakoahk families oh rehn Pohnpei pahn sohtehn wehi speak English pahn kapwungak oh rehn second language. Team kitail includes Spanish-speaking staff, oh kitail pahn sohtehn wehi arrange translation services pahn kapwungak oh rehn ensure kitail fully understand rights kitail.

Precedent Cases: Victims ohlo me kin wahu Win Millions

Cases ohlo me kin wahu pahn sohtehn wehi result oh rehn multi-million-dollar settlements oh verdicts. Kehngir pahn sohtehn wehi pahn kapwungak oh rehn families pahn sohtehn wehi recovered:

Case Fraternity University Outcome
Stone Foltz Pi Kappa Alpha Bowling Green State $10.1 million settlement
Maxwell Gruver Phi Delta Theta Louisiana State $6.1 million jury verdict
Timothy Piazza Beta Theta Pi Penn State $110+ million settlement
Andrew Coffey Pi Kappa Phi Florida State Confidential settlement
Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi University of Houston $10 million lawsuit pending (case kitail)

Kain results pahn sohtehn wehi possible pahn kapwungak oh rehn families oh rehn Pohnpei.

Common Defenses—oh Ahpw Kitail Defeat Kitail

Defense 1: “Kitail Consented pahn kapwungak oh rehn Ohlo me kin wahu”

Response kitail:

  • Texas oh pwutakoahk states explicitly say consent pahn sohtehn wehi NOT oh rehn defense.
  • Coercion oh peer pressure negate consent—ahpw kin wiawi truly “agree” pahn kapwungak oh rehn torture.
  • Minors cannot legally consent pahn kapwungak oh rehn ohlo me kin wahu.

Defense 2: “Pahn sohtehn wehi Just oh rehn Prank/Tradition”

Response kitail:

  • Waterboarding pahn sohtehn wehi torture, not oh rehn prank.
  • Forcing kin wiawi pahn kapwungak oh rehn exercise pahn kapwungak oh rehn collapse pahn sohtehn wehi assault.
  • Tradition pahn sohtehn wehi justify criminal behavior.

Defense 3: “University Didn’t Know”

Response kitail:

  • Universities pahn sohtehn wehi duty pahn kapwungak oh rehn protect students.
  • Ahpw kitail own oh rehn fraternity house (pahn kapwungak oh rehn UH did), kitail pahn sohtehn wehi liable.
  • Prior hazing incidents prove kitail knew oh rehn risks.

Defense 4: “Victim pahn sohtehn wehi Partially pahn kapwungak oh rehn Fault”

Response kitail:

  • Ahpw victim participated, soamwoaloaiong pahn sohtehn wehi still liable.
  • Comparative negligence laws reduce—but pahn sohtehn wehi eliminate—recovery.
  • Juries hate hazing oh punish perpetrators.

Ahpw kin wiawi pahn sohtehn wehi Recover pahn kapwungak oh rehn Injuries ohlo me kin wahu

Ahpw kin wiawi pahn sohtehn wehi hazed, kitail pahn sohtehn wehi entitled pahn kapwungak oh rehn compensation pahn kapwungak oh rehn:

Economic Damages (Tangible Losses)

  • Medical bills (ER visits, hospitalization, therapy, future treatment)
  • Lost wages (ahpw kin wiawi missed work pahn kapwungak oh rehn injuries)
  • Educational expenses (tuition, lost scholarships, academic disruption)
  • Future medical costs (ahpw injuries require long-term care)

Non-Economic Damages (Pain oh Suffering)

  • Physical pain from injuries
  • Emotional distress (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
  • Humiliation oh shame from hazing rituals
  • Loss oh rehn enjoyment oh rehn life (inability pahn kapwungak oh rehn participate oh rehn normal activities)

Punitive Damages (Punishment pahn kapwungak oh rehn Egregious Conduct)

  • Awarded ahpw conduct pahn sohtehn wehi intentional, reckless, oh malicious.
  • Case kitail nan Houston involves waterboarding, 500 squats, oh wooden paddles—kain justifies punitive damages.
  • Designed pahn kapwungak oh rehn send oh rehn message oh prevent future hazing.

Kehmehn pahn sohtehn wehi Long Case ohlo me kin wahu Pahn Sohtehn Wehi?

  • Minor injuries, clear liability: 6–12 months
  • Moderate injuries, single defendant: 12–18 months
  • Severe injuries, multiple defendants: 18–36 months
  • Wrongful death cases: 2–4 years

Ahpw sooner kitail contact kitail, ahpw sooner kitail pahn sohtehn wehi begin building case kitail.

Victims ohlo me kin wahu oh rehn Pohnpei: Kitail Pahn Sohtehn Wehi Alone

Ohlo me kin wahu pahn sohtehn wehi not oh rehn rite oh rehn passage. Pahn sohtehn wehi abuse, assault, oh sometimes manslaughter. Ahpw kin wiawi pahn sohtehn wehi hazed, kitail pahn sohtehn wehi right pahn kapwungak oh rehn justice, accountability, oh compensation.

Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi Attorney 911. Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi fighting kain battle right now oh rehn Houston. Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi fight pahn kapwungak oh rehn kitail oh rehn Pohnpei.

Call kitail 24/7 pahn 1-888-ATTY-911

Email: ralph@atty911.com

Free consultation—no obligation

Kitail work pahn kapwungak oh rehn contingency: Kitail pay nothing unless kitail win.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) pahn kapwungak oh rehn Families oh rehn Pohnpei

1. Kin wiawi pahn sohtehn wehi hazed oh rehn U.S. ahpw kitail live oh rehn Pohnpei. Can kitail still help?

Io. Kitail represent victims ohlo me kin wahu nationwide, including students from Pohnpei attending U.S. colleges. Kitail handle cases remotely oh travel ahpw needed.

2. Ahpw ahpw kin wiawi pahn sohtehn wehi afraid pahn kapwungak oh rehn speak out?

Kitail understand oh rehn fear oh rehn retaliation. Client kitail nan Houston pahn sohtehn wehi also afraid pahn kapwungak oh rehn go public. Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi:

  • Protect identity kitail pahn kapwungak oh rehn legal proceedings
  • File anonymously oh rehn some cases
  • Take legal action pahn kapwungak oh rehn anyone pahn sohtehn wehi retaliates

3. Kehmehn pahn sohtehn wehi cost pahn kapwungak oh rehn hire oh rehn lawyer ohlo me kin wahu?

Nothing upfront. Kitail work pahn kapwungak oh rehn contingency fee basis, meaning:

  • Kitail pay $0 pahn kapwungak oh rehn hire kitail.
  • Kitail only get paid ahpw kitail win case kitail.
  • Fee kitail pahn sohtehn wehi from oh rehn settlement oh verdict.

4. Ahpw ahpw ohlo me kin wahu happened months oh years ago?

Act now. Most states pahn sohtehn wehi oh rehn 2-year statute oh rehn limitations pahn kapwungak oh rehn personal injury cases. Ahpw kitail wait too long, kitail pahn sohtehn wehi lose right kitail pahn kapwungak oh rehn sue.

5. Can kitail sue ahpw kin wiawi “agreed” pahn kapwungak oh rehn participate?

Io. Oh rehn many states, consent pahn sohtehn wehi not oh rehn defense pahn kapwungak oh rehn ohlo me kin wahu. Ahpw kin wiawi “agreed,” soamwoaloaiong pahn sohtehn wehi still liable.

6. Ahpw ahpw ohlo me kin wahu didn’t cause physical injuries?

Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi still sue pahn kapwungak oh rehn emotional distress, PTSD, oh humiliation. Psychological trauma pahn sohtehn wehi oh rehn valid legal claim.

7. Pahn sohtehn wehi fraternity/college try pahn kapwungak oh rehn settle quickly?

Io—and first offer kitail pahn sohtehn wehi lowball. Kitail want pahn kapwungak oh rehn settle pahn kapwungak oh rehn kitail realize oh rehn full extent oh rehn damages kitail. Never accept oh rehn settlement without consulting oh rehn lawyer.

8. Can kitail sue ahpw kin wiawi pahn sohtehn wehi hazed oh rehn Pohnpei (not oh rehn U.S.)?

Ahpw ohlo me kin wahu occurred oh rehn Pohnpei, local laws apply. However:

  • Ahpw soamwoaloaiong pahn sohtehn wehi U.S.-based (e.g., oh rehn fraternity pahn kapwungak oh rehn U.S. chapters), kitail pahn sohtehn wehi still have jurisdiction.
  • Ahpw kin wiawi pahn sohtehn wehi hazed online (e.g., cyberbullying, virtual hazing), U.S. laws pahn sohtehn wehi apply.
  • Contact kitail pahn kapwungak oh rehn free evaluation—kitail pahn sohtehn wehi assess options kitail.

9. Ahpw ahpw ohlo me kin wahu pahn sohtehn wehi “just drinking”?

Forced alcohol consumption pahn sohtehn wehi still hazing—oh pahn sohtehn wehi deadly. Pwutakoahk deaths ohlo me kin wahu result from alcohol poisoning, oh soamwoaloaiong pahn sohtehn wehi held liable.

10. Ahpw kitail know ahpw kitail pahn sohtehn wehi strong case?

Strong hazing case typically involves:
Clear evidence (texts, photos, videos, witness statements)
Documented injuries (medical records, hospital bills)
Identifiable defendants (fraternity, university, individuals)
Pattern oh rehn abuse (prior hazing incidents pahn kapwungak oh rehn same soamwoaloaiong)

Contact kitail pahn kapwungak oh rehn free case review—kitail pahn sohtehn wehi tell kitail ahpw kitail pahn sohtehn wehi case.

Parents oh rehn Pohnpei: Protect Future Kin Wiawi Kitail

Kitail sent kin wiawi kitail pahn kapwungak oh rehn college pahn kapwungak oh rehn learn, grow, oh succeed—not pahn kapwungak oh rehn tortured, humiliated, oh hospitalized.

Ohlo me kin wahu pahn sohtehn wehi not tradition. Pahn sohtehn wehi not bonding. Pahn sohtehn wehi abuse.

Attorney 911 pahn sohtehn wehi here pahn kapwungak oh rehn fight pahn kapwungak oh rehn families oh rehn Pohnpei. Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi experience, resources, oh determination pahn kapwungak oh rehn hold kain organizations accountable.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.

Kin wiawi kitail deserve justice. Kitail pahn sohtehn wehi get kitail.

ENGLISH

Hazing Victims in Pohnpei: Your Legal Rights and How We Can Help

Hazing in Pohnpei: A Hidden Crisis in Paradise

Pohnpei, with its lush landscapes and vibrant culture, is home to a growing number of students attending college both locally and abroad. While the island offers a unique educational experience, students from Pohnpei face the same risks as their peers across the United States when it comes to hazing in Greek organizations, sports teams, and other student groups. The recent case of Leonel Bermudez—a student hospitalized after brutal hazing at the University of Houston—serves as a stark reminder that this dangerous “tradition” knows no geographic boundaries.

At Attorney 911, we are currently fighting a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for the horrific hazing that nearly killed our client. We are ready to bring the same aggressive legal representation to hazing victims in Pohnpei and their families.

What Is Hazing? The Reality in Pohnpei

Hazing is any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them—regardless of their willingness to participate. In Pohnpei, this might include:

  • Extreme physical punishment: Forced exercise to exhaustion, beatings with objects, or exposure to harsh weather conditions
  • Forced consumption: Being made to drink excessive alcohol, eat spoiled food, or consume other dangerous substances
  • Psychological abuse: Sleep deprivation, verbal harassment, or threats of social ostracism
  • Dangerous rituals: Activities like simulated drowning (waterboarding), paddling, or being confined in small spaces
  • Sexual humiliation: Forced nudity, carrying sexual objects, or other degrading acts

These are not “pranks” or “traditions.” They are crimes.

In our current case, Leonel Bermudez—a student who wasn’t even enrolled at the university yet—was waterboarded with a garden hose, forced to do 500 squats, and struck with wooden paddles until his muscles broke down, causing rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure. He spent four days in the hospital fighting for his life.

This same abuse happens in organizations near Pohnpei. If your child has been hazed, we can help.

Why Pohnpei Families Need Legal Representation

1. Hazing Is Illegal in the U.S.—Even for Pohnpei Students

If your child attends college in the U.S. (or is part of a U.S.-based organization), they are protected by state and federal anti-hazing laws. Many states, including Texas, have felony hazing laws, and consent is not a defense. This means that even if your child “agreed” to participate, the organization can still be held legally responsible.

2. Universities and Fraternities Have Deep Pockets

Greek organizations and universities carry multi-million-dollar insurance policies. When hazing results in serious injury or death, these institutions often settle cases for large sums to avoid public scrutiny. Our firm has experience forcing these organizations to pay—we are currently seeking $10 million in our Houston case.

3. Hazing Causes Long-Term Damage

Victims of hazing often suffer:

  • Physical injuries (broken bones, organ damage, traumatic brain injury)
  • Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts)
  • Academic disruption (missed classes, dropped grades, lost scholarships)
  • Financial burdens (medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages)

You shouldn’t have to pay for their negligence.

4. Institutions Will Try to Silence You

Universities and fraternities often:

  • Pressure victims to stay quiet
  • Destroy evidence (deleting texts, hiding records)
  • Offer lowball settlements before victims know the full extent of their injuries
  • Blame the victim (“They consented,” “They knew the risks”)

We know their tactics because we used to defend insurance companies. Now, we use that knowledge to fight for victims like you.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Hazing in Pohnpei?

If your child was hazed, multiple parties may be responsible:

Defendant Why They’re Liable
Local chapter Directly organized and carried out the hazing
National fraternity/sorority Failed to supervise, ignored prior hazing incidents
University/college Knew or should have known about hazing, failed to protect students
Chapter officers (president, pledgemaster, etc.) Directed or participated in hazing
Individual members Physically abused or humiliated the victim
Alumni/hosts Allowed hazing at their homes (premises liability)
Insurance companies Provide coverage for these organizations

In our Houston case, we are suing:

  • Pi Kappa Phi National
  • The local chapter
  • The University of Houston (which owned the fraternity house)
  • Individual members
  • A former member and his spouse (who hosted hazing at their home)

What Should You Do If Your Child Was Hazed in Pohnpei?

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

  • Even if injuries seem minor, get a medical evaluation.
  • Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) and alcohol poisoning can be life-threatening.
  • Medical records are critical evidence in your case.

2. Preserve All Evidence

  • Take photos/videos of injuries, hazing locations, and any objects used.
  • Save all communications (texts, social media messages, emails, GroupMe chats).
  • Write down everything (dates, times, what was said, who was involved).
  • Get witness contact information (other pledges, bystanders).

3. Do NOT Talk to the Organization Without a Lawyer

  • They will try to control the narrative, destroy evidence, and pressure you to stay quiet.
  • Do not sign anything from the fraternity, sorority, or university.
  • Do not give recorded statements to their insurance company.

4. Contact Attorney 911 Immediately

  • Statutes of limitations apply—in most states, you have only 2 years to file a lawsuit.
  • Evidence disappears quickly (texts get deleted, witnesses forget).
  • The sooner we get involved, the stronger your case will be.

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 or email ralph@atty911.com.

How We Can Help Pohnpei Hazing Victims

1. Free, Confidential Case Evaluation

We will review your case at no cost and explain your legal options.

2. Aggressive Legal Representation

We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit in Texas. We know:

  • How to gather evidence (texts, videos, witness statements)
  • How to depose fraternity members and university officials
  • How to negotiate with insurance companies
  • How to take cases to trial if necessary

3. No Upfront Costs—We Work on Contingency

  • You pay nothing unless we win your case.
  • Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict—not from your pocket.
  • This means you can afford the best legal representation, no matter your financial situation.

4. We Travel to Pohnpei for Your Case

While we are based in Houston, we travel for depositions, meetings, and trials. We will come to Pohnpei to:

  • Meet with you and your family
  • Interview witnesses
  • Gather evidence
  • Fight for justice on your home turf

5. Bilingual Support (Se Habla Español)

Many Pohnpei families speak English as a second language. Our team includes Spanish-speaking staff, and we can arrange translation services to ensure you fully understand your rights.

Precedent Cases: Hazing Victims Win Millions

Hazing cases result in multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts. Here’s what other families have recovered:

Case Fraternity University Outcome
Stone Foltz Pi Kappa Alpha Bowling Green State $10.1 million settlement
Maxwell Gruver Phi Delta Theta Louisiana State $6.1 million jury verdict
Timothy Piazza Beta Theta Pi Penn State $110+ million settlement
Andrew Coffey Pi Kappa Phi Florida State Confidential settlement
Leonel Bermudez Pi Kappa Phi University of Houston $10 million lawsuit pending (our case)

These results are possible for Pohnpei families too.

Common Defenses—and How We Defeat Them

Defense 1: “They Consented to the Hazing”

Our Response:

  • Texas and many other states explicitly say consent is NOT a defense.
  • Coercion and peer pressure negate consent—no one truly “agrees” to torture.
  • Minors cannot legally consent to hazing.

Defense 2: “It Was Just a Prank/Tradition”

Our Response:

  • Waterboarding is torture, not a prank.
  • Forcing someone to exercise until they collapse is assault.
  • Tradition does not justify criminal behavior.

Defense 3: “The University Didn’t Know”

Our Response:

  • Universities have a duty to protect students.
  • If they own the fraternity house (like UH did), they are liable.
  • Prior hazing incidents prove they knew the risks.

Defense 4: “The Victim Was Partially at Fault”

Our Response:

  • Even if the victim participated, the organization is still liable.
  • Comparative negligence laws reduce—but do not eliminate—recovery.
  • Juries hate hazing and punish the perpetrators.

What You Can Recover for Hazing Injuries

If your child was hazed, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages (Tangible Losses)

  • Medical bills (ER visits, hospitalization, therapy, future treatment)
  • Lost wages (if your child missed work due to injuries)
  • Educational expenses (tuition, lost scholarships, academic disruption)
  • Future medical costs (if injuries require long-term care)

Non-Economic Damages (Pain and Suffering)

  • Physical pain from injuries
  • Emotional distress (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
  • Humiliation and shame from hazing rituals
  • Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in normal activities)

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Egregious Conduct)

  • Awarded when conduct is intentional, reckless, or malicious.
  • Our Houston case involves waterboarding, 500 squats, and wooden paddles—this justifies punitive damages.
  • Designed to send a message and prevent future hazing.

How Long Does a Hazing Case Take?

  • Minor injuries, clear liability: 6–12 months
  • Moderate injuries, single defendant: 12–18 months
  • Severe injuries, multiple defendants: 18–36 months
  • Wrongful death cases: 2–4 years

The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin building your case.

Pohnpei Hazing Victims: You Are Not Alone

Hazing is not a rite of passage. It is abuse, assault, and sometimes manslaughter. If your child has been hazed, you have the right to justice, accountability, and compensation.

We are Attorney 911. We are fighting this battle right now in Houston. We will fight for you in Pohnpei.

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911

Email: ralph@atty911.com

Free consultation—no obligation

We work on contingency: You pay nothing unless we win.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Pohnpei Families

1. My child was hazed in the U.S. but we live in Pohnpei. Can you still help?

Yes. We represent hazing victims nationwide, including students from Pohnpei attending U.S. colleges. We handle cases remotely and travel as needed.

2. What if my child is afraid to speak out?

We understand the fear of retaliation. Our client in Houston was also afraid to go public. We can:

  • Protect their identity during legal proceedings
  • File anonymously in some cases
  • Take legal action against anyone who retaliates

3. How much does it cost to hire a hazing lawyer?

Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning:

  • You pay $0 to hire us.
  • We only get paid if we win your case.
  • Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict.

4. What if the hazing happened months or years ago?

Act now. Most states have a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to sue.

5. Can we sue even if my child “agreed” to participate?

Yes. In many states, consent is not a defense to hazing. Even if your child “agreed,” the organization can still be held liable.

6. What if the hazing didn’t cause physical injuries?

You can still sue for emotional distress, PTSD, and humiliation. Psychological trauma is a valid legal claim.

7. Will the fraternity/college try to settle quickly?

Yes—and their first offer will be a lowball. They want to settle before you realize the full extent of your damages. Never accept a settlement without consulting a lawyer.

8. Can we sue if my child was hazed in Pohnpei (not the U.S.)?

If the hazing occurred in Pohnpei, local laws apply. However:

  • If the organization is U.S.-based (e.g., a fraternity with U.S. chapters), we may still have jurisdiction.
  • If your child was hazed online (e.g., cyberbullying, virtual hazing), U.S. laws may apply.
  • Contact us for a free evaluation—we can assess your options.

9. What if the hazing was “just drinking”?

Forced alcohol consumption is still hazing—and it can be deadly. Many hazing deaths result from alcohol poisoning, and organizations can be held liable.

10. How do I know if I have a strong case?

A strong hazing case typically involves:
Clear evidence (texts, photos, videos, witness statements)
Documented injuries (medical records, hospital bills)
Identifiable defendants (fraternity, university, individuals)
Pattern of abuse (prior hazing incidents at the same organization)

Contact us for a free case review—we’ll tell you if you have a case.

Pohnpei Parents: Protect Your Child’s Future

You sent your child to college to learn, grow, and succeed—not to be tortured, humiliated, or hospitalized.

Hazing is not tradition. It is not bonding. It is abuse.

Attorney 911 is here to fight for Pohnpei families. We have the experience, the resources, and the determination to hold these organizations accountable.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.

Your child deserves justice. We will get it for you.


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