🚨 Hazing Justice for Watauga County Families: How Attorney 911 Fights for Students at Appalachian State and Beyond

Watauga County families: If your child has been hazed at Appalachian State University or any college near Boone, Attorney 911 is here to fight for you. We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston, and we bring that same aggressive representation to Watauga County students who have suffered from fraternity and sorority abuse.

The Hazing Crisis Hits Close to Home in Watauga County

Hazing isn’t just happening in Texas. It’s happening right here in North Carolina. Appalachian State University in Boone has an active Greek life community with multiple fraternities and sororities operating on and near campus. The same national organizations involved in hazing deaths and hospitalizations nationwide—Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, and others—have chapters at App State and universities throughout Watauga County.

Watauga County parents: The same “traditions” that hospitalized our client in Houston exist at Appalachian State and other North Carolina schools. Your child could be at risk right now.

What Watauga County Families Need to Know About Hazing

Hazing Doesn’t Build Brotherhood—It Destroys Lives

Hazing is often dismissed as “harmless tradition” or “just boys being boys.” But in our current case, we’re seeing what hazing really is: torture.

Our client, a student trying to join Pi Kappa Phi at the University of Houston, was:

• Waterboarded with a garden hose (simulated drowning)
• Forced to do 500 squats and 100 pushups until he collapsed
• Struck with wooden paddles
• Forced to eat until he vomited, then made to keep running
• Hospitalized for four days with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure

This isn’t tradition. This is abuse. And it’s happening at schools near Watauga County.

The Same Fraternities Operate in Watauga County

Pi Kappa Phi, the fraternity we’re suing, has 150+ chapters across America, including at universities in North Carolina. Other fraternities with documented hazing histories also have chapters at Appalachian State and other Watauga County-area schools:

Watauga County parents: If your child is pledging any of these organizations at Appalachian State or other local universities, they face the same risks we’re fighting in court right now.

Universities Near Watauga County Are Failing to Protect Students

In our Houston case, the University of Houston owned the fraternity house where hazing occurred. They had a student hospitalized from hazing in 2017 and did nothing to prevent it from happening again. Appalachian State and other Watauga County-area universities face the same liability when they fail to protect students from hazing.

How Attorney 911 Fights for Watauga County Hazing Victims

We’re Fighting This Battle Right Now—and We’ll Fight for Watauga County Families Too

We are currently litigating a $10 million lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston for the hazing that hospitalized our client. This isn’t theoretical—we’re in the fight right now, and we’re bringing that same aggressive approach to Watauga County.

What we’re doing in our current case—and what we’ll do for Watauga County victims:

✅ Immediate evidence preservation — We act fast to secure texts, photos, videos, and witness statements before they disappear
✅ Multi-defendant litigation — We sue the fraternity, the national organization, the university, and individual perpetrators
✅ Federal court authority — We can pursue cases in federal court, giving Watauga County families access to broader legal options
✅ Insurance policy leverage — As former insurance defense attorneys, we know how to maximize recovery from insurance companies
✅ Pattern evidence — We prove this isn’t an isolated incident by uncovering prior hazing reports at the same chapter
✅ Media strategy — We use the power of the press to hold institutions accountable
✅ Legislative advocacy — We work with lawmakers to strengthen hazing laws

We Travel to Watauga County for Your Case

While we’re based in Texas, distance is not a barrier to justice. We serve hazing victims nationwide, including in Watauga County. We offer:

• Video consultations — Meet with our attorneys remotely
• Travel to Watauga County — For depositions, client meetings, and court appearances
• Local coordination — We work with Watauga County medical providers, counselors, and experts
• 24/7 availability — Call our legal emergency hotline anytime

Watauga County families: You don’t have to fight this alone. We’re here to help.

What to Do If Your Child Has Been Hazed in Watauga County

Step 1: Get Medical Attention Immediately

If your child has been hazed, seek medical attention right away—even if they say they’re “fine.” Some injuries, like rhabdomyolysis (the condition our client suffered), may not show symptoms immediately. A doctor can document the physical and psychological effects of hazing, which is critical for building a strong case.

Watauga County medical resources:

• Appalachian Regional Healthcare System — (828) 262-4100
• Watauga Medical Center — (828) 262-4100
• Appalachian State Student Health Service — (828) 262-3100

Step 2: Preserve All Evidence

Do not delete anything. Save all evidence related to the hazing, including:

• Text messages (GroupMe, iMessage, WhatsApp, Snapchat, etc.)
• Social media posts (screenshots of Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, etc.)
• Photos or videos of injuries, hazing activities, or fraternity events
• Emails from the fraternity, sorority, or university
• Physical evidence (clothing, paddles, or other items used in hazing)
• Names and contact information of witnesses or other victims

If your child is still in the hazing environment:

• Have them discreetly document everything they can
• Encourage them to save communications as they happen
• If possible, have them take photos or videos of hazing activities

Step 3: Do NOT Confront the Organization Without Legal Counsel

Fraternities and sororities will try to control the narrative. Do not:

• Talk to fraternity/sorority leadership without an attorney
• Give statements to university administrators alone
• Sign any documents from the organization
• Post about the incident on social media

Anything you say can be used against you in a legal case.

Step 4: Report the Hazing to Authorities

Consider filing reports with:

• Local law enforcement — Hazing is a crime in North Carolina
• University Title IX office — Hazing often involves gender-based discrimination
• North Carolina Attorney General’s Office — (919) 716-6400

Step 5: Contact Attorney 911 Immediately

Time is critical. In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 3 years, but evidence disappears quickly, and witnesses forget. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Call our legal emergency hotline 24/7:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911

Or email us:
📧 ralph@atty911.com

Why Watauga County Families Choose Attorney 911

We’re Not Just Lawyers—We’re Fighters

We’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. We know how to build these cases, and we know how to win. Watauga County families get the same aggressive representation we’re bringing to this landmark case.

We Understand the Unique Challenges of Hazing Cases

Hazing cases are complex. They involve:

• Multiple defendants (individuals, local chapters, national organizations, universities)
• Institutional cover-ups (universities and fraternities often try to silence victims)
• Psychological trauma (victims may be reluctant to come forward due to shame or fear)
• Pattern evidence (proving this isn’t an isolated incident)

We have the experience to navigate these challenges and fight for maximum compensation for Watauga County victims.

We Offer Contingency Fees—No Upfront Cost for Watauga County Families

We understand that cost can be a barrier to seeking justice. That’s why we take hazing cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.

Watauga County families: You have nothing to lose by calling us.

We’re Former Insurance Defense Attorneys—We Know How They Think

Both of our attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena, are former insurance defense lawyers. We know how insurance companies value claims, and we know how they try to minimize or deny payouts. We use that insider knowledge to maximize recovery for our clients.

We Have a Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our clients in personal injury cases, including:

• Multi-million dollar settlements in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases
• Successful litigation against large institutions, including universities and corporations
• Aggressive representation in high-stakes cases

Watauga County families: We fight for the compensation you deserve.

We’re Committed to Ending Hazing in Watauga County and Beyond

We’re not just fighting for our clients—we’re fighting to end hazing culture. Our goal is to hold institutions accountable and prevent future hazing incidents. By pursuing these cases, we send a message that hazing will not be tolerated.

The Legal Rights of Watauga County Hazing Victims

North Carolina Hazing Laws

North Carolina has strong laws against hazing. Under North Carolina General Statute § 14-35, hazing is a Class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and fines. If hazing results in serious injury or death, the penalties increase significantly.

What constitutes hazing in North Carolina?
Hazing includes any activity that:

• Endangers the physical or mental health of a student
• Is required for initiation, admission, or affiliation with a group
• Is likely to cause bodily injury

Examples of hazing in our current case:

• Waterboarding (simulated drowning)
• Forced exercise to the point of collapse (500 squats, 100 pushups)
• Being struck with wooden paddles
• Forced consumption of food or liquids to the point of vomiting
• Sleep deprivation

Civil Liability for Hazing in Watauga County

In addition to criminal charges, hazing victims in Watauga County can pursue civil lawsuits to recover compensation for their injuries. Potential defendants include:

Types of Compensation Available for Watauga County Victims

Hazing victims in Watauga County may be entitled to compensation for:

In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million for our client’s injuries. While every case is unique, Watauga County victims may be entitled to similar compensation depending on the severity of their injuries and the egregiousness of the hazing.

Real Hazing Cases with Multi-Million Dollar Outcomes

Watauga County families: These cases prove that hazing victims can—and do—win big. The same legal strategies that secured these verdicts and settlements apply to Watauga County cases.

Our current case: Bermudez v. Pi Kappa Phi

• University: University of Houston
• Fraternity: Pi Kappa Phi
• Injuries: Rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, 4-day hospitalization
• Status: $10 million lawsuit pending

How Attorney 911 Builds a Strong Hazing Case for Watauga County Victims

Step 1: Immediate Evidence Preservation

We act fast to preserve evidence before it disappears. This includes:

• Text messages and social media posts (GroupMe, Snapchat, Instagram, etc.)
• Photos and videos of hazing activities or injuries
• Witness statements from other pledges or bystanders
• Medical records documenting injuries
• University records showing prior hazing incidents

Watauga County families: The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Step 2: Identifying All Liable Parties

We sue everyone responsible, including:

• The local fraternity/sorority chapter
• The national organization
• The university (if applicable)
• Individual members who participated
• Chapter officers who directed hazing
• Alumni who hosted hazing events

In our current case, we’re suing 10+ defendants. We bring that same comprehensive approach to Watauga County cases.

Step 3: Proving Pattern and Foreseeability

We uncover evidence that the hazing wasn’t an isolated incident. This may include:

• Prior hazing reports at the same chapter
• Prior incidents at other chapters of the same fraternity
• Internal communications showing the national organization knew about hazing risks
• University records showing prior hazing incidents on campus

In our current case, we’re proving that Pi Kappa Phi knew about “a hazing crisis” and failed to act. We’ll do the same for Watauga County victims.

Step 4: Calculating Full Damages

We work with medical experts, economists, and life care planners to calculate the full extent of your damages, including:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Punitive damages

Watauga County families: We fight for every dollar you deserve.

Step 5: Aggressive Negotiation and Litigation

We don’t back down from powerful institutions. Our approach includes:

• Demanding full policy limits from insurance companies
• Taking cases to trial if defendants won’t offer fair settlements
• Using media pressure to hold institutions accountable
• Coordinating with criminal investigations to strengthen civil cases

In our current case, we’re seeking $10 million. We bring that same determination to Watauga County cases.

Common Hazing Defenses—and How We Defeat Them

“He Consented to Participate”

Defense argument: “The victim knew what they were getting into and consented to the activities.”

Our response:

• North Carolina law: Consent is not a defense to hazing. Under North Carolina General Statute § 14-35, hazing is illegal regardless of consent.
• Coercion: Victims often feel pressured to participate due to fear of social exclusion or retaliation.
• Misrepresentation: Hazing activities are often hidden or downplayed during recruitment.

In our current case, we’re using Texas law that explicitly states “consent is not a defense.” North Carolina law is similarly clear: hazing is illegal, period.

“It Was Just Tradition”

Defense argument: “This is how we’ve always done it. It’s part of our culture.”

Our response:

• Tradition doesn’t justify illegal activity. Just because something has been done for years doesn’t make it legal or safe.
• Pattern evidence: We prove that “tradition” has led to injuries and deaths at other chapters.
• Institutional knowledge: Universities and national organizations know the risks but fail to act.

In our current case, we’re showing that Pi Kappa Phi’s “tradition” led to Andrew Coffey’s death in 2017 and our client’s hospitalization in 2025. The same pattern exists at Watauga County schools.

“The University Didn’t Know”

Defense argument: “The university had no idea hazing was happening.”

Our response:

• Duty to supervise: Universities have a responsibility to monitor student organizations, especially those with a history of hazing.
• Premises liability: If hazing occurred on university property, the university is responsible for ensuring safety.
• Prior incidents: We uncover evidence that the university knew or should have known about hazing risks.

In our current case, the University of Houston owned the fraternity house where hazing occurred. They had a prior hazing incident in 2017 and did nothing to prevent it from happening again. Appalachian State and other Watauga County universities face the same liability.

“It Wasn’t That Bad”

Defense argument: “The hazing wasn’t severe enough to cause real harm.”

Our response:

• Medical evidence: We present medical records documenting injuries, including rhabdomyolysis, broken bones, and psychological trauma.
• Expert testimony: Medical experts explain the severity of the injuries and long-term consequences.
• Victim testimony: The victim describes the physical and emotional toll of hazing.

In our current case, our client was hospitalized for four days with kidney failure. We bring that same medical expertise to Watauga County cases.

How to Spot Hazing at Appalachian State and Other Watauga County Schools

Watauga County parents: Hazing often starts subtly and escalates. Be aware of these warning signs that your child may be experiencing hazing:

Behavioral Changes

• Sudden withdrawal from family and friends
• Increased secrecy about their activities
• Avoiding discussions about their fraternity/sorority
• Declining academic performance
• Increased anxiety or depression
• Unexplained injuries or bruises

Physical Signs

• Fatigue or sleep deprivation
• Weight loss or changes in appetite
• Signs of physical abuse (bruises, cuts, burns)
• Signs of alcohol or drug use
• Changes in personal hygiene

Financial Signs

• Unexplained expenses (e.g., buying alcohol, paying for events)
• Requests for money without explanation
• Missing valuables (hazing often involves theft or forced purchases)

Communication Patterns

• Avoiding phone calls or texts from family
• Using coded language or inside jokes about “traditions”
• Mentioning activities that sound suspicious (e.g., “we had a long workout,” “we had to do some tasks for the brothers/sisters”)

Direct Red Flags

• Being forced to consume alcohol or other substances
• Being subjected to physical abuse or extreme exercise
• Being humiliated or degraded
• Being forced to perform personal services for members
• Being isolated from non-members
• Being threatened with expulsion if they don’t comply

If you notice any of these signs, talk to your child immediately and consider contacting Attorney 911 for guidance.

What Watauga County Parents Can Do to Protect Their Children

Before Your Child Joins a Fraternity or Sorority

1. Research the organization — Look up the fraternity/sorority’s national website and check for hazing violations or lawsuits.
2. Ask about hazing policies — Does the organization have a clear anti-hazing policy? How do they enforce it?
3. Meet with chapter leadership — Ask direct questions about their new member process. If they avoid answering or seem evasive, that’s a red flag.
4. Talk to current members — Ask them about their experience. Do they feel safe and respected?
5. Visit the chapter house — Does it seem like a healthy environment? Are there signs of excessive partying or unsafe conditions?
6. Set clear boundaries — Make sure your child knows it’s okay to say no to activities that make them uncomfortable.
7. Stay involved — Check in regularly with your child about their experience. Don’t assume everything is fine just because they’re not complaining.

If Your Child Is Already in a Fraternity or Sorority

1. Maintain open communication — Encourage your child to talk to you about their experience, good or bad.
2. Watch for warning signs — Be alert for changes in behavior, physical condition, or academic performance.
3. Ask direct questions — “Has anything happened that made you uncomfortable?” “Have you been asked to do anything you didn’t want to do?”
4. Trust your instincts — If something feels off, it probably is.
5. Know their schedule — Be aware of when they’re supposed to be at events and check in if they’re out late.
6. Encourage them to speak up — Let your child know it’s okay to report hazing, and that they won’t get in trouble for doing so.
7. Document everything — If your child reports hazing, document the details and preserve any evidence.

How Attorney 911 Supports Watauga County Families Beyond the Courtroom

We’re More Than Just Lawyers—We’re Advocates

We understand that hazing cases involve more than just legal issues. They involve emotional trauma, academic disruption, and long-term consequences. That’s why we support Watauga County families in multiple ways:

✅ Medical referrals — We connect victims with specialists who understand hazing-related injuries
✅ Therapy and counseling — We help victims access mental health support for PTSD, anxiety, and depression
✅ Academic advocacy — We work with universities to minimize academic disruption and protect scholarships
✅ Media strategy — We help victims share their stories safely and effectively
✅ Legislative advocacy — We work with lawmakers to strengthen hazing laws and protect future students
✅ Community support — We connect families with other hazing victims for peer support

Watauga County families: We’re here for you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions from Watauga County Families

Q: My child was hazed at Appalachian State. Can you help us even though you’re based in Texas?

A: Yes. We serve hazing victims nationwide, including in Watauga County. We offer video consultations and travel to Watauga County for depositions, client meetings, and trials. Distance is not a barrier to justice.

Q: My child is afraid to come forward because they don’t want to be ostracized. What can we do?

A: We understand the fear of retaliation, and we take it seriously. In our current case, our client is “fearful of doing an interview due to retribution.” We can:

• Help your child document the hazing discreetly
• Connect them with support networks of other hazing victims
• Pursue legal action without requiring them to go public
• Seek protective orders if necessary

Your child’s safety and well-being are our top priorities.

Q: How much does it cost to hire Attorney 911 for a hazing case?

A: Nothing upfront. We take hazing cases 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 your recovery

Watauga County families: You have nothing to lose by calling us.

Q: What if the hazing happened months or years ago? Is it too late to take legal action?

A: In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 3 years. However, there may be exceptions depending on when the injury was discovered or if the victim was a minor at the time.

Even if you’re unsure about the timeline, contact us immediately. We can evaluate your case and determine your legal options.

Q: My child was hazed, but they weren’t physically injured. Can we still pursue a case?

A: Yes. Hazing often causes psychological trauma even without physical injuries. This can include:

• PTSD
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Loss of trust
• Academic decline

We pursue compensation for both physical and psychological harm. Contact us to discuss your child’s experience.

Q: Will pursuing a case affect my child’s standing at Appalachian State?

A: Universities often try to protect their reputation by discouraging victims from coming forward. However:

• Hazing is illegal in North Carolina, and universities cannot retaliate against victims for reporting it
• We can advocate for your child’s academic standing and protect their scholarships
• Many universities have policies that prohibit retaliation against hazing victims

We’ll fight to ensure your child is protected throughout the legal process.

Q: What if the fraternity or university offers us a settlement? Should we accept it?

A: Never accept a settlement without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies and universities often make lowball offers to victims who don’t have legal representation.

In our experience:

• The first offer is always the lowest
• Victims often don’t know the full extent of their damages when the first offer is made
• Accepting a settlement waives your right to pursue additional compensation

We negotiate aggressively to secure full and fair compensation for our clients.

Q: My child was hazed at a different university in North Carolina. Can you still help?

A: Yes. We represent hazing victims from all universities in North Carolina, including:

• Appalachian State University (Boone)
• University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill)
• North Carolina State University (Raleigh)
• Duke University (Durham)
• Wake Forest University (Winston-Salem)
• East Carolina University (Greenville)
• And many others

If your child was hazed at any North Carolina college or university, contact us.

Q: What if my child participated in hazing activities themselves? Can they still pursue a case?

A: Yes. Even if your child participated in some hazing activities, they can still pursue a case if they were also hazed. Many victims feel pressured to participate due to:

• Fear of social exclusion
• Threats of expulsion from the organization
• Peer pressure
• Misrepresentation of the activities

North Carolina law recognizes that victims often feel coerced into participating. We can evaluate your child’s situation and determine their legal options.

Q: How long does a hazing case typically take?

A: Every case is unique, but hazing cases typically take 12-36 months to resolve. Factors that can affect the timeline include:

• The severity of the injuries
• The number of defendants
• Whether the case settles or goes to trial
• The complexity of the evidence

We work diligently to resolve cases as efficiently as possible while fighting for maximum compensation.

Watauga County Resources for Hazing Victims

Medical Resources

• Appalachian Regional Healthcare System — (828) 262-4100
• Watauga Medical Center — (828) 262-4100
• Appalachian State Student Health Service — (828) 262-3100

Mental Health Resources

• Appalachian State Counseling Center — (828) 262-3180
• Daymark Recovery Services (Boone) — (828) 264-8759
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline — 988

Legal Resources

• Attorney 911 Legal Emergency Hotline — 1-888-ATTY-911
• North Carolina Attorney General’s Office — (919) 716-6400
• Watauga County District Attorney’s Office — (828) 268-6610

Support Organizations

• Clery Center — National organization working to prevent hazing and campus violence
• HazingPrevention.Org — Resources for hazing prevention and victim support
• Love Like Adam Foundation — Founded by the family of Adam Oakes, a hazing victim

Contact Attorney 911 for Watauga County Hazing Cases

Watauga County families: If your child has been hazed at Appalachian State or any other college or university, we’re here to help.

📞 Call our legal emergency hotline 24/7: 1-888-ATTY-911

📧 Email us: ralph@atty911.com

🌐 Visit our website: attorney911.com

We offer:

• Free, confidential consultations for Watauga County families
• Contingency fee representation — you pay nothing upfront
• Aggressive advocacy against powerful institutions
• Nationwide service — we travel to Watauga County for your case

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears, and the statute of limitations is ticking. Contact us today.

🏆 Together, We Can End Hazing in Watauga County

Watauga County families: Enough is enough.

For too long, hazing has been dismissed as “tradition” or “boys being boys.” But as our current case shows, hazing is torture. It destroys lives. It sends students to the hospital. And in too many cases, it kills.

We’re fighting to change that. With every case we take, we send a message that hazing will not be tolerated. We hold institutions accountable. We protect future students.

If your child has been hazed at Appalachian State or any other Watauga County-area school, we’re here to fight for you. Together, we can end hazing culture and ensure that no other Watauga County family has to go through what you’re experiencing.

Call us today. Let’s take the first step toward justice.

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