Hazing Lawyers in Thurston County, Nebraska – Protecting Students from Fraternity Abuse

Attorney 911 – Fighting for Hazing Victims in Thurston County and Beyond

If your child has been the victim of fraternity hazing, sorority abuse, or dangerous initiation rituals at a college or university near Thurston County, Nebraska, you are not alone. We are Attorney 911, a team of experienced hazing injury lawyers based in Texas but serving victims nationwide, including Thurston County. We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston, and we are ready to bring that same aggressive representation to Thurston County families.

Thurston County Parents: Hazing Doesn’t Stop at State Lines

Hazing is a national crisis that affects students in Nebraska just as it does in Texas. The same national fraternities and sororities that operate in Texas maintain active chapters at colleges and universities throughout Nebraska, including institutions near Thurston County. The same dangerous “traditions” that hospitalized our client in Houston happen right here in Nebraska.

If your child attends college near Thurston County, they face the same risks. The same negligence exists at Nebraska institutions. And we will fight for Nebraska families with the same determination we bring to our Texas cases.

What Is Hazing? Recognizing the Warning Signs in Thurston County

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 Nebraska, hazing is illegal under state law, and consent is not a defense.

Common Hazing Activities Reported Near Thurston County:

• Physical abuse: Beatings, paddling, forced exercise to exhaustion
• Forced consumption: Alcohol, food, or other substances until vomiting or passing out
• Sleep deprivation: Late-night activities, forced driving, disrupted sleep schedules
• Psychological torture: Humiliation, degradation, verbal abuse, threats
• Waterboarding or simulated drowning: A form of torture used in some fraternities
• Exposure to extreme weather: Forced outdoor activities in cold or heat
• Servitude: Forced cleaning, errands, or other tasks for members

Medical consequences of hazing near Thurston County can include:

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown leading to kidney failure)
• Alcohol poisoning
• Traumatic brain injury from beatings or falls
• Hypothermia or heat stroke
• Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
• Wrongful death

Our Current Hazing Case: A Warning for Thurston County Families

We are currently representing Leonel Bermudez in a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. Our client was subjected to weeks of systematic abuse, including:

• Waterboarding with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
• Forced to perform 500 squats and 100+ pushups until he collapsed
• Struck with wooden paddles
• Forced to eat until vomiting, then made to lie in vomit-soaked grass
• Another pledge lost consciousness during a workout, but hazing continued
• Result: Severe rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney failure, and a 4-day hospital stay

Why this matters to Thurston County families:

• Pi Kappa Phi has 150+ chapters nationwide, including in Nebraska
• The same national organization that failed to prevent this in Texas operates near Thurston County
• Universities near Thurston County face the same liability failures as UH
• If your child is being hazed, we will fight for you just like we’re fighting for Leonel Bermudez

Who Is Liable for Hazing in Thurston County?

When hazing occurs, multiple parties can be held legally responsible:

1. Local fraternity/sorority chapters – Directly organized and conducted hazing
2. National organizations – Failed to supervise, enforce policies, or prevent abuse despite prior incidents
3. Universities and colleges – Failed to protect students despite having authority to regulate Greek life
4. Individual members – Participated in or facilitated hazing activities
5. Alumni and advisors – Allowed hazing to occur at their properties or under their supervision
6. Housing corporations – Owned or controlled properties where hazing occurred

In our current case, we are suing:

• Pi Kappa Phi National
• The local UH chapter
• The housing corporation
• The University of Houston
• Individual members and officers
• A former member and his spouse (hazing occurred at their residence)

Legal Rights for Thurston County Hazing Victims

Nebraska Hazing Law

Nebraska Revised Statute § 28-311.06 defines hazing as any activity that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission into any organization. Hazing is a Class II misdemeanor in Nebraska, punishable by up to 6 months in jail.

Key legal points for Thurston County families:

• Consent is not a defense – Even if your child agreed to participate, the organization can still be liable
• Universities can be held responsible – If they knew or should have known about hazing risks
• National organizations can be sued – For failing to prevent hazing at local chapters
• Individuals can be held personally liable – Including criminal charges

Civil Lawsuits for Hazing Injuries

Thurston County families can file civil lawsuits to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses (hospital bills, rehabilitation, therapy)
• Lost wages (time missed from work or school)
• Pain and suffering (physical and emotional trauma)
• Punitive damages (to punish egregious conduct and deter future hazing)
• Wrongful death (if hazing results in a fatality)

Precedent cases show that hazing victims can win millions:

• Stone Foltz (Pi Kappa Alpha) – $10.1 million settlement
• Maxwell Gruver (Phi Delta Theta) – $6.1 million jury verdict
• Timothy Piazza (Beta Theta Pi) – $110+ million settlement

What to Do If Your Child Is Hazed in Thurston County

If you suspect your child has been hazed, take these steps immediately:

1. Seek medical attention – Some injuries (like rhabdomyolysis) may not be immediately apparent
2. Preserve all evidence – Save text messages, photos, videos, social media posts, and any physical evidence
3. Do not confront the organization alone – They will try to control the narrative and destroy evidence
4. Contact an experienced hazing lawyer – We can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights
5. Consider reporting to authorities – Hazing is a crime in Nebraska; a police report can support your case
6. Document everything – Keep a record of all medical visits, expenses, and communications related to the incident

Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Thurston County Hazing Case

1. We Are Currently Fighting a $10 Million Hazing Case

We are not just talking about hazing – we are actively litigating a major hazing lawsuit right now. Thurston County families get the same aggressive representation we provide to our current client.

2. Nationwide Experience with Local Focus

While based in Texas, we serve hazing victims nationwide, including Thurston County. Our federal court authority and willingness to travel mean distance is not a barrier to justice.

3. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys

Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena worked for insurance companies before switching sides. We know their playbook and use that knowledge to maximize your compensation.

4. Dual-State Bar Admission

We are licensed in both Texas and New York, giving us strategic advantages when pursuing national fraternity organizations headquartered in different states.

5. Federal Court Authority

We are admitted to practice in U.S. District Court, allowing us to pursue hazing cases in federal jurisdiction when appropriate.

6. Bilingual Services for Thurston County Families

Se habla español. We provide comprehensive legal services to Spanish-speaking clients, ensuring language is never a barrier to justice.

7. Contingency Fee Representation

You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This allows Thurston County families to fight powerful institutions without financial risk.

8. Aggressive Litigation Approach

We don’t just settle cases – we take them to trial when necessary. Our track record of courtroom success puts pressure on defendants to offer fair settlements.

9. Comprehensive Case Management

We handle every aspect of your case, from evidence preservation to negotiations to trial, allowing you to focus on your child’s recovery.

10. Compassionate Representation for Thurston County Families

We understand the trauma hazing causes. We treat our clients with respect, compassion, and the personalized attention they deserve.

Thurston County Colleges and Universities with Greek Life

While Thurston County itself is a rural area, several colleges and universities with active Greek life organizations are located within driving distance:

1. University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) – Lincoln, NE (~120 miles from Thurston County)

   • Home to numerous fraternities and sororities, including Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and others

2. University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) – Omaha, NE (~100 miles from Thurston County)

   • Active Greek life community with multiple fraternities and sororities

3. Creighton University – Omaha, NE (~100 miles from Thurston County)

   • Private Jesuit university with Greek organizations

4. Nebraska Wesleyan University – Lincoln, NE (~120 miles from Thurston County)

   • Smaller private university with Greek life presence

5. Wayne State College – Wayne, NE (~30 miles from Thurston County)

   • Smaller public college with Greek organizations

Important note for Thurston County families: The same national fraternities and sororities involved in hazing deaths and injuries nationwide maintain chapters at these Nebraska institutions. If your child is pledging a fraternity or sorority near Thurston County, they face the same risks that hospitalized our client in Texas.

Common Hazing Myths Debunked for Thurston County Families

Myth 1: “Hazing is just harmless fun – it builds character.”

Reality: Hazing is abuse, not character-building. It can cause permanent physical and psychological damage. In our current case, hazing led to kidney failure requiring a 4-day hospital stay.

Myth 2: “My child consented to participate, so there’s no case.”

Reality: Nebraska law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. The power dynamics in Greek organizations make true consent impossible.

Myth 3: “Only fraternities haze – sororities are safer.”

Reality: While fraternity hazing tends to be more physical, sororities also engage in dangerous hazing activities, including forced alcohol consumption, sleep deprivation, and psychological abuse.

Myth 4: “Universities can’t be held responsible – they don’t control Greek life.”

Reality: Universities have significant control over Greek organizations through recognition, housing arrangements, and disciplinary authority. When they fail to exercise this control to prevent hazing, they can be held liable.

Myth 5: “Hazing only happens at big schools – small colleges near Thurston County are safer.”

Reality: Hazing occurs at all types of institutions, from large state universities to small private colleges. Wayne State College, just 30 miles from Thurston County, has Greek organizations that could potentially engage in hazing activities.

Myth 6: “If my child didn’t get physically injured, there’s no case.”

Reality: Psychological trauma from hazing can be just as damaging as physical injuries. PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health consequences are compensable in court.

Myth 7: “Reporting hazing will just get my child in trouble.”

Reality: Nebraska law provides immunity for individuals who report hazing in good faith. Moreover, failing to report hazing can result in legal consequences.

The Attorney 911 Approach to Thurston County Hazing Cases

When we take on a hazing case for a Thurston County family, we follow a comprehensive approach:

1. Immediate Response

   • Secure medical records and preserve evidence
   • Send preservation letters to all potential defendants
   • Coordinate with law enforcement if criminal charges are appropriate

2. Comprehensive Investigation

   • Interview witnesses and gather statements
   • Obtain all relevant documents (pledge manuals, communications, etc.)
   • Work with medical experts to document injuries
   • Research the organization’s history of hazing incidents

3. Legal Strategy Development

   • Identify all potential defendants
   • Develop theories of liability (negligence, premises liability, etc.)
   • Calculate full extent of damages
   • Prepare for both settlement negotiations and trial

4. Aggressive Litigation

   • File lawsuit against all responsible parties
   • Conduct thorough discovery to uncover all evidence
   • Take depositions of key witnesses and defendants
   • Prepare for mediation and trial

5. Victim Support

   • Connect families with medical and psychological resources
   • Provide guidance on academic and career impacts
   • Offer compassionate support throughout the legal process

What to Expect During Your Thurston County Hazing Case

1. Free Initial Consultation

   • We’ll evaluate your case and explain your legal options
   • No obligation, no upfront cost

2. Case Investigation

   • We’ll gather evidence and build your case
   • This may take several months

3. Demand and Negotiation

   • We’ll send a demand package to the defendants
   • Settlement negotiations may begin

4. Litigation (if necessary)

   • If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we’ll file a lawsuit
   • The discovery process can take 6-18 months

5. Resolution

   • Many cases settle before trial
   • If necessary, we’ll take your case to court

Important note for Thurston County families: The timeline can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the defendants’ willingness to settle. We’ll keep you informed at every stage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing Cases in Thurston County

Q: How much is my Thurston County hazing case worth?

A: The value of your case depends on several factors, including:

• The severity of the injuries
• The extent of medical treatment required
• The impact on your child’s education and career
• The egregiousness of the hazing conduct
• The defendants’ ability to pay

In our current case, we are seeking $10 million based on similar precedent cases. Every case is unique, and we’ll evaluate your specific circumstances to determine a fair value.

Q: How long do I have to file a hazing lawsuit in Nebraska?

A: Nebraska has a 4-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including hazing injuries. However, it’s crucial to act quickly because:

• Evidence disappears over time
• Witnesses forget details
• Organizations may destroy records
• Your legal rights are at risk the longer you wait

Q: Can I sue if my child wasn’t physically injured?

A: Yes. Psychological trauma from hazing can be just as damaging as physical injuries. PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health consequences are compensable in court.

Q: What if my child was drinking during the hazing?

A: Even if your child consumed alcohol, the organization can still be held liable. Forced consumption and peer pressure negate any argument of voluntary participation.

Q: Can I afford a hazing lawyer for my Thurston County case?

A: Yes. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We only get paid if we win your case
• Our fee comes out of the settlement or verdict
• If we don’t win, you owe us nothing

This allows Thurston County families to fight powerful institutions without financial risk.

Q: Will my child have to testify?

A: Many hazing cases settle without the victim having to testify. If the case goes to trial, we’ll prepare your child thoroughly and support them throughout the process.

Q: Can I sue if the hazing happened off-campus?

A: Yes. Hazing is illegal regardless of where it occurs. Universities and national organizations can still be held liable for off-campus hazing.

Q: What if my child is afraid of retaliation?

A: We take all necessary steps to protect our clients from retaliation, including:

• Filing motions to protect identities when appropriate
• Requesting protective orders
• Ensuring all communications go through our office
• Taking swift legal action against any retaliatory behavior

Q: Can I still sue if the organization has already suspended the chapter?

A: Yes. Suspending or closing a chapter doesn’t absolve the organization of liability for the harm they caused. In fact, it can be seen as an admission of wrongdoing.

Q: How long will my Thurston County hazing case take?

A: Every case is different. Some cases settle within months, while others may take years if they go to trial. We’ll work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible while ensuring you receive fair compensation.

Contact Attorney 911 – Thurston County’s Hazing Lawyers

If your child has been the victim of hazing near Thurston County, Nebraska, don’t wait to seek help. The sooner you contact us, the better we can preserve evidence and protect your rights.

Call us 24/7 for a free, confidential consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Email: ralph@atty911.com

We serve hazing victims throughout Nebraska, including Thurston County, Wayne County, Dixon County, Cuming County, and beyond.

Why Thurston County Families Choose Attorney 911:

✅ Proven track record – We’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing case
✅ Nationwide experience – We fight for victims across America, including Nebraska
✅ Former insurance defense attorneys – We know how the other side thinks
✅ Federal court authority – We can pursue cases in federal jurisdiction
✅ Dual-state bar admission – Strategic advantage for national organizations
✅ Bilingual services – Se habla español for Spanish-speaking families
✅ Contingency fee representation – No upfront costs for Thurston County families
✅ Aggressive litigation approach – We don’t back down from powerful institutions
✅ Compassionate representation – We treat our clients like family

Don’t let the fraternities, sororities, or universities near Thurston County silence your child. We will fight for justice.

Thurston County Hazing Resources

Nebraska Anti-Hazing Organizations:

1. Nebraska Coalition Against Hazing

   • Website: nebraskahazingprevention.org
   • Focus: Education, prevention, and advocacy

2. StopHazing

   • Website: stophazing.org
   • National organization with Nebraska resources

3. HazingPrevention.Org

   • Website: hazingprevention.org
   • National organization with educational resources

Nebraska Legal Resources:

1. Nebraska Revised Statute § 28-311.06 – Nebraska’s anti-hazing law
2. Nebraska Attorney General’s Office – Can provide information on hazing laws
3. University of Nebraska-Lincoln Office of Student Conduct – Handles hazing reports at UNL

Mental Health Resources for Thurston County:

1. Nebraska Family Helpline

   • Phone: 1-888-866-8660
   • 24/7 support for families

2. Boys Town National Hotline

   • Phone: 1-800-448-3000
   • 24/7 crisis hotline

3. Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services – Behavioral Health

   • Website: dhhs.ne.gov/behavioral_health
   • Mental health resources and treatment options

Final Message to Thurston County Families

Hazing is not tradition. It’s not bonding. It’s not building character.

It’s abuse. It’s assault. It’s sometimes torture. And it’s always wrong.

The fraternities and sororities near Thurston County will tell you that what happened to your child was “just a prank” or “part of the process.” They’ll say your child “knew what they were getting into.” They’ll try to minimize the harm.

Don’t let them.

What happened to your child was not their fault. They trusted these organizations. They trusted their university. They trusted that these institutions would keep them safe.

That trust was betrayed.

At Attorney 911, we don’t just represent hazing victims – we fight for them. We fight for accountability. We fight for change. And we fight for Thurston County families who deserve justice.

If your child has been hazed near Thurston County, call us today. We’re ready to fight for you.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com

Attorney 911 – Legal Emergency Lawyers™ – Serving Thurston County and All of Nebraska