🛡️ Washington County Hazing Lawyer – Fraternity Abuse & Greek Life Injury Attorney
Protecting Students from Hazing in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Across Northwest Arkansas
If your child was injured, hospitalized, or traumatized by hazing at a fraternity, sorority, or student organization in Washington County, Arkansas—including the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville—you are not alone. The same dangerous “traditions” that hospitalized a student at the University of Houston in 2025 are happening right here in Northwest Arkansas. We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit and can bring that same fight to Washington County families.
At Attorney 911, we represent hazing victims across America—including right here in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, Siloam Springs, Fort Smith, and all of Washington County. While we’re based in Texas, our federal court authority and nationwide reach mean we can pursue justice for your family no matter where the hazing occurred.
📞 Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation. We serve Washington County families remotely and will travel to Arkansas for your case.
🚨 The Hazing Crisis in Washington County – What Parents Need to Know
Hazing Doesn’t Stop at State Lines
The same national fraternities and sororities that have paid millions in hazing settlements nationwide operate chapters at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and other Washington County institutions. These organizations have a documented history of:
- Forced alcohol consumption leading to alcohol poisoning
- Extreme physical punishment causing rhabdomyolysis, broken bones, and internal injuries
- Waterboarding and simulated drowning (yes, this is happening in Arkansas too)
- Sleep deprivation and psychological torture
- Sexual humiliation and assault
In 2025 alone, we’re fighting a case where a student was:
- Waterboarded with a garden hose
- Forced to do 500 squats until he collapsed
- Struck with wooden paddles
- Hospitalized with kidney failure from rhabdomyolysis
This isn’t happening “somewhere else.” It’s happening in Fayetteville. It’s happening in Springdale. It could be happening to your child right now.
🏛️ Washington County Universities & Colleges with Greek Life – Hazing Risk Areas
| Institution | Location | Greek Life Presence | Hazing Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas | Fayetteville, AR | Very High – 30+ fraternities and sororities | Large Greek system; national organizations with documented hazing histories; high-profile athletics culture |
| NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) | Bentonville, AR | Moderate | Smaller but active Greek organizations; proximity to U of A culture |
| John Brown University | Siloam Springs, AR | Moderate | Private Christian university; Greek life present |
| University of Arkansas – Fort Smith | Fort Smith, AR | Moderate | Growing Greek community; regional influence |
| Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Campus | Ozark, AR | Limited | Smaller organizations; still potential for hazing |
Washington County Parents: If your child attends any of these schools—or any school near Washington County with Greek life—they are at risk. The same fraternities that have killed and injured students nationwide have chapters in Northwest Arkansas.
💔 Real Hazing Cases That Could Happen in Washington County
Case 1: Waterboarding & Kidney Failure – The University of Houston Case (2025)
What Happened:
A student at the University of Houston was subjected to weeks of systematic hazing by Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, including:
- Waterboarding with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
- Forced to do 500+ squats and 100+ pushups while reciting fraternity creed
- Struck with wooden paddles
- Forced to consume milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting
- Hospitalized for 4 days with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
Why This Matters to Washington County:
- Pi Kappa Phi has chapters at universities across America—including near Washington County
- The same national organization that allowed this to happen in Houston operates in Arkansas
- If your child is pledging a fraternity in Washington County, they face the same risks
Current Status: We are currently suing Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for $10 million. Washington County families can pursue the same justice.
Case 2: Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University (2021)
What Happened:
Stone Foltz, a 20-year-old student, was forced to drink an entire bottle of alcohol during a Pi Kappa Alpha “Big Brother” event. He died from acute alcohol poisoning.
Legal Outcome:
- $10.1 million settlement (largest public university hazing payout in Ohio history)
- Fraternity permanently expelled
- Multiple criminal convictions
Why This Matters to Washington County:
- Pi Kappa Alpha has chapters in Arkansas
- The same “traditions” that killed Stone Foltz exist at Washington County universities
- If your child is pledging Pike in Fayetteville, they are at risk
Case 3: Maxwell Gruver – Louisiana State University (2017)
What Happened:
Max Gruver, an 18-year-old freshman, was forced to drink excessively during a Phi Delta Theta “Bible Study” event. His blood alcohol content reached 0.495—more than 6 times the legal limit. He died from acute alcohol poisoning.
Legal Outcome:
- $6.1 million jury verdict
- Max Gruver Act passed in Louisiana – made hazing a felony
Why This Matters to Washington County:
- Phi Delta Theta has chapters in Arkansas
- Juries award millions for hazing deaths and injuries
- Washington County families can drive legislative change in Arkansas
Case 4: Timothy Piazza – Penn State University (2017)
What Happened:
Timothy Piazza was forced to run “the gauntlet” at Beta Theta Pi, consuming 18 drinks in 82 minutes. He fell down stairs multiple times while severely intoxicated. Fraternity members waited 12 hours before calling 911. He died from traumatic brain injury.
Legal Outcome:
- $110+ million settlement (estimated)
- 18 fraternity members charged – multiple convictions
- Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law passed in Pennsylvania
Why This Matters to Washington County:
- Beta Theta Pi has chapters in Arkansas
- Security cameras captured everything – strong evidence wins cases
- Washington County universities have the same liability when they fail to protect students
⚖️ Arkansas Hazing Laws – What Washington County Families Need to Know
Arkansas Code § 6-5-201 – Hazing
Definition of Hazing in Arkansas:
Any activity that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a student organization.
This includes:
- Physical brutality (paddling, forced exercise, branding)
- Forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs
- Sleep deprivation
- Psychological abuse (humiliation, threats)
- Any activity that creates a substantial risk of physical injury
Arkansas Law is Clear: Hazing is a Crime
| Offense Level | Punishment |
|---|---|
| Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in jail, $2,500 fine |
| Class D Felony | If hazing results in serious physical injury or death – up to 6 years in prison |
Washington County Parents: If your child was hazed, the individuals responsible can face criminal charges. We work with local prosecutors to ensure justice is served.
Civil Liability – Washington County Families Can Sue
Even if criminal charges are filed, civil lawsuits allow families to pursue financial compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost wages
- Punitive damages (to punish the wrongdoers)
Who Can Be Sued in Washington County:
- Local fraternity/sorority chapter – directly responsible for hazing
- National fraternity/sorority organization – failed to supervise; knew about hazing culture
- University of Arkansas or other institution – failed to protect students; may own fraternity property
- Individual members – participated in hazing
- Chapter officers – leadership responsibility
- Alumni – if hazing occurred at their residence
- Insurance companies – policies may cover damages
🏥 Medical Consequences of Hazing – What Washington County Parents Should Watch For
Hazing isn’t “harmless fun.” It causes real, life-threatening injuries. If your child shows any of these symptoms after pledging, seek medical attention immediately:
| Symptom | Possible Condition | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Severe muscle pain | Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) | Go to ER immediately – can cause kidney failure |
| Brown/dark urine | Rhabdomyolysis (myoglobin in urine) | Medical emergency – kidney damage risk |
| Extreme fatigue/weakness | Rhabdomyolysis, dehydration, sleep deprivation | Seek medical evaluation |
| Vomiting, nausea | Alcohol poisoning, forced consumption | Monitor closely; seek ER if persistent |
| Confusion, slurred speech | Alcohol poisoning, concussion, brain injury | Go to ER immediately |
| Difficulty breathing | Alcohol poisoning, aspiration, internal injury | Call 911 |
| Seizures | Alcohol poisoning, brain injury | Call 911 |
| Anxiety, depression, PTSD | Psychological trauma from hazing | Seek mental health treatment |
| Nightmares, flashbacks | PTSD from abusive hazing | Therapy recommended |
| Withdrawal from friends/family | Depression, shame, trauma | Encourage professional help |
Washington County Parents: If your child was hazed and is showing any of these symptoms, document everything. Take photos. Get medical records. This evidence is critical for your case.
📋 What to Do If Your Child Was Hazed in Washington County
Step 1: Ensure Safety & Seek Medical Attention
- If your child is in immediate danger, call 911
- Take them to the ER if they show any symptoms of alcohol poisoning, rhabdomyolysis, or other injuries
- Document all injuries with photos (bruises, cuts, burns, etc.)
Step 2: Preserve Evidence
- Save all text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchats, emails about hazing
- Take screenshots of social media posts (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)
- Get names and contact info of witnesses
- Keep all medical records and bills
- Do not delete anything – this could be considered destruction of evidence
Step 3: Do NOT Talk to the Organization Without Legal Counsel
- Fraternities and sororities will try to control the narrative
- They may offer “apologies” or “settlements” to silence you
- Do not sign anything without consulting an attorney
- Do not give statements to university administrators alone
Step 4: Report the Hazing
- File a police report with your local Washington County law enforcement
- Report to the university (Title IX office, Greek Life office)
- Report to the national fraternity/sorority organization
Step 5: Contact a Hazing Attorney Immediately
- Call Attorney 911 at 1-888-ATTY-911
- We offer free, confidential consultations
- We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win
- We will travel to Washington County for your case
🎯 Why Washington County Families Choose Attorney 911
1. We’re Currently Litigating a $10 Million Hazing Case
- We know how to build these cases
- We know how to win against powerful institutions
- Washington County families get the same aggressive representation
2. Nationwide Reach – We Serve Washington County Families
- Federal court authority – U.S. District Court admission
- Dual-state bar licenses – Texas AND New York
- Video consultations – Meet with us remotely
- Willingness to travel – We come to Washington County for depositions and trials
3. Former Insurance Defense Attorneys – We Know Their Playbook
- Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena both worked for insurance companies before representing victims
- We know exactly how they try to minimize claims
- We use that knowledge to maximize your recovery
4. Proven Track Record – Millions Recovered for Victims
- $10 million hazing lawsuit – currently litigating
- Multi-million dollar settlements in personal injury cases
- BP Texas City explosion litigation – mass tort experience
- Hundreds of cases won against insurance companies
5. Compassionate Representation – We Treat You Like Family
“We see your child as a person—not a paycheck. We will fight hard for Washington County families because we truly care.”
6. No Upfront Costs – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win
- Contingency fee basis – $0 upfront
- We only get paid if we recover compensation for you
- If we don’t win, you owe us nothing
📞 Washington County Families – Call 1-888-ATTY-911 Now
If your child was hazed in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, or anywhere in Washington County, we can help.
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com
Free Consultation • No Upfront Costs • We Fight for Washington County Families
📍 Serving All of Washington County, Arkansas
| City/Town | How We Serve You |
|---|---|
| Fayetteville | University of Arkansas students; Greek life; local representation |
| Springdale | Northwest Arkansas families; remote consultations; local meetings |
| Rogers | High school and college students; Greek life; travel to your location |
| Bentonville | NWACC students; remote representation; local case management |
| Farmington | University of Arkansas students; local support |
| Johnson | Local families; Greek life; remote legal services |
| Tontitown | Italian-American community; local outreach |
| West Fork | Rural families; remote consultations |
| Elkins | Local students; travel to your area |
| Greenland | University of Arkansas families; local case support |
| Winslow | Rural Washington County; remote legal services |
| Siloam Springs | John Brown University; local Greek life; remote representation |
| Fort Smith | University of Arkansas – Fort Smith; regional representation |
We serve all of Washington County, Arkansas, and the surrounding region. Distance is not a barrier to justice.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Washington County Hazing Cases
Q: My child was hazed at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Can you help?
A: Yes. We represent hazing victims nationwide, including at the University of Arkansas. We can evaluate your case and pursue justice against the fraternity, the national organization, and the university if they failed to protect your child.
Q: What if the hazing happened off-campus?
A: It doesn’t matter. Hazing is illegal whether it happens on or off campus. If it was part of a fraternity or sorority event, we can hold the organization liable.
Q: The fraternity says my child “consented” to hazing. Can they still be held responsible?
A: Yes. Arkansas law does not allow “consent” as a defense to hazing. Even if your child agreed to participate, the law says consent does not matter when the activity is dangerous or illegal.
Q: How much is my child’s hazing case worth?
A: Every case is different, but hazing cases often result in substantial settlements or verdicts, especially when:
- The injuries are severe (hospitalization, surgery, permanent damage)
- The hazing was particularly egregious (waterboarding, forced consumption, physical abuse)
- The university or national organization knew about prior hazing incidents
- There is strong evidence (texts, photos, videos, witness statements)
Recent hazing cases have resulted in:
- $10.1 million (Stone Foltz case)
- $6.1 million jury verdict (Max Gruver case)
- $110+ million (Timothy Piazza case)
Q: How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
A: In Arkansas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is 3 years. However, you should act immediately because:
- Evidence disappears (texts, photos, videos)
- Witnesses forget details
- Organizations destroy records
- Your rights are at risk
Q: Will my child have to go to court?
A: Most hazing cases settle before trial. However, we are prepared to take your case to court if necessary to get full justice for your family.
Q: What if my child is afraid of retaliation?
A: We understand. Many hazing victims fear retribution for speaking out. We protect our clients’ identities and safety. Our client in the University of Houston case was also afraid of retribution—we ensured his story was heard while keeping him safe.
Q: Can you help if the hazing happened at a different school, like John Brown University or NWACC?
A: Yes. We represent hazing victims at all colleges and universities in Washington County and across Arkansas, including:
- University of Arkansas (Fayetteville)
- John Brown University (Siloam Springs)
- NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Bentonville)
- University of Arkansas – Fort Smith
- Any other school with Greek life or student organizations
Q: How much does it cost to hire Attorney 911?
A: Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:
- You pay $0 to hire us
- We only get paid if we win your case
- Our fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict
- If we don’t win, you owe us nothing
🔥 Message to Washington County Fraternities & Sororities
To the fraternities and sororities operating in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and across Washington County:
We are watching. The same legal strategies that secured $10+ million verdicts nationwide apply to your chapter.
Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu, Delta Tau Delta, Alpha Tau Omega, Lambda Chi Alpha, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Delta Chi, Theta Chi, Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI), Alpha Gamma Rho, FarmHouse, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, Iota Phi Theta, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Phi Beta, Sigma Gamma Rho, Phi Mu, Chi Omega, Kappa Delta, Delta Delta Delta, Alpha Delta Pi, Kappa Alpha Theta, Pi Beta Phi, Gamma Phi Beta, Alpha Epsilon Phi, Delta Gamma, Alpha Omicron Pi, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Zeta Tau Alpha, Alpha Chi Omega, Phi Sigma Sigma, Theta Phi Alpha, Alpha Sigma Alpha, Delta Zeta, Sigma Kappa, Alpha Xi Delta, Phi Sigma Rho, Alpha Sigma Tau, Sigma Sigma Sigma, Alpha Phi, Delta Phi Epsilon, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Sigma Alpha Iota, Tau Beta Sigma, Kappa Kappa Psi:
If your chapter operates in Washington County, know this:
- We track your house corporations, alumni chapters, and insurance structures
- We know your national organization’s hazing death record
- We know how to sue every liable entity — the university, the national organization, the housing corporation, and individual members
- We shut down the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter at UH after our lawsuit
- Your chapter could be next
The Beta Nu chapter learned this the hard way. Your chapter could be next.
🏆 Washington County Families – You Deserve Justice
Hazing is not tradition. It’s not brotherhood. It’s not sisterhood.
It is abuse. It is assault. It is reckless endangerment. It is sometimes manslaughter. It is always wrong.
If your child was hazed in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, or anywhere in Washington County, you have the right to:
- Hold the perpetrators accountable
- Recover compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma
- Prevent this from happening to another Washington County family
We are Attorney 911. We are Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena. And we are here to fight for you.
📞 Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now for a free, confidential consultation.
Attorney 911 – Legal Emergency Lawyers™
📍 Serving Washington County, Arkansas from Houston, Austin & Beaumont
📞 1-888-ATTY-911
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com
Washington County hazing victims: You are not alone. We are fighting this battle right now—and we will fight for you.