The Complete Guide to Hazing Litigation for Winston County, Alabama Families

If Your Child Was Hazed at an Alabama University, You Are Not Alone

Imagine receiving a phone call in the middle of the night. Your son or daughter, a student at an Alabama university, is in the emergency room. The story comes out in fragments: what started as “pledge activities” escalated into forced drinking, extreme physical exertion, and humiliation. They’re injured, traumatized, and afraid. The university is saying they’ll “look into it.” The fraternity or sorority members are closing ranks. As a parent in Winston County—from communities like Double Springs, Haleyville, or Lynn—you’re left wondering what really happened, who’s responsible, and what you can do to protect your child and hold someone accountable.

This scenario happens more often than most Alabama families realize. Hazing isn’t just “boys being boys” or harmless tradition—it’s illegal, dangerous, and can cause lifelong physical and psychological damage. Right now, in Texas, our firm is fighting one of the most serious hazing cases in the country: the Leonel Bermudez lawsuit against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. In that case, a college student developed rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure after enduring humiliating “pledge fanny pack” rules, forced overeating until vomiting, extreme workouts including 100+ push-ups and 500 squats, and being sprayed in the face with a hose “similar to waterboarding.” He was hospitalized for four days and faces ongoing kidney damage. The chapter has been shut down, and we’re seeking millions in damages. This case shows exactly what we do: we take on powerful universities and national fraternities when they fail to protect students.

This comprehensive guide is written specifically for parents and families in Winston County, Alabama whose children may have experienced hazing at Alabama universities or anywhere in the United States. We’ll explain what modern hazing really looks like, Alabama’s legal landscape, the national patterns that affect students everywhere, and most importantly, what your family can do to seek accountability and justice.

Immediate Help for Hazing Emergencies

If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

• Call 911 for medical emergencies
• Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• We provide immediate help—that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™

In the first 48 hours:

1. Get medical attention immediately, even if your child insists they’re “fine”
2. Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
   • Screenshot group chats, texts, and DMs immediately
   • Photograph injuries from multiple angles
   • Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects used in hazing)
3. Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where)
4. Do NOT:
   • Confront the fraternity/sorority directly
   • Sign anything from the university or insurance company
   • Post details on public social media
   • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence

Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

• Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed evidence, coached witnesses)
• Universities move quickly to control the narrative
• We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights from Alabama
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation

What Hazing Really Looks Like in 2025

Beyond the Stereotypes: Modern Hazing Methods

Hazing has evolved far beyond the stereotypical “hell week” imagery many parents remember. Today’s hazing involves sophisticated psychological manipulation, digital control, and calculated risk-taking designed to avoid detection while maintaining power over new members.

Alcohol and Substance Hazing:

• Forced or coerced drinking games with specific consequences for “wrong answers”
• “Big/Little” nights where pledges are given entire bottles of liquor to consume
• Mandatory consumption of unknown mixtures or dangerous substances
• Pressure to use drugs as part of initiation rituals

Physical Hazing:

• Extreme calisthenics beyond safe limits (“smokings” with hundreds of push-ups or squats)
• Paddling or beatings, often framed as “tradition”
• Sleep deprivation through all-night “meetings” or tasks
• Food and water restriction or forced consumption of unpleasant substances
• Exposure to extreme temperatures or dangerous environments

Psychological and Digital Hazing:

• 24/7 group chat monitoring with immediate response demands
• Social media humiliation through forced posts or challenges
• Geographic tracking via apps like Find My Friends
• Isolation from family and non-Greek friends
• Public shaming during “interview” sessions or meetings

Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing:

• Forced nudity or partial nudity
• Simulated sexual acts or degrading positions
• Racist, sexist, or homophobic role-playing
• Requirement to carry humiliating items (like the “pledge fanny packs” in the UH case containing condoms and sex toys)

Where Hazing Happens in Alabama

While fraternities and sororities receive most media attention, hazing occurs across campus organizations:

Greek Life Organizations:

• Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternities
• Panhellenic sororities
• National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) organizations
• Multicultural Greek Council groups

Athletic Programs:

• Varsity sports teams
• Club sports
• Cheer and spirit squads
• Marching bands

Other Campus Groups:

• Military organizations (ROTC, Corps programs)
• Academic clubs and honor societies
• Performance groups
• Service organizations

The common thread is power imbalance: older members exerting control over new members through traditions, fear of exclusion, and psychological manipulation.

Alabama’s Legal Framework for Hazing Cases

Alabama Hazing Laws

Alabama has specific statutes addressing hazing. Understanding these laws is crucial for Winston County families seeking accountability:

Alabama Code § 16-1-23:

• Defines hazing as “any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a student, whether individually or in concert with others, against another student”
• Includes acts that endanger mental or physical health or safety
• Covers actions occurring on or off campus
• Applies to all educational institutions receiving public funds

Criminal Penalties:

• Hazing is classified as a Class C misdemeanor in Alabama
• Enhanced penalties may apply if serious injury or death occurs
• Individuals can face additional charges (assault, providing alcohol to minors, etc.)

Civil Liability:

• Victims can sue for damages including medical expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional distress
• Both individuals and organizations can be held liable
• Universities may face liability for negligent supervision

Federal Laws Overlaying Alabama Cases

Several federal frameworks apply to hazing cases involving Alabama students:

Title IX:

• Requires universities to address gender-based harassment and violence
• Applies when hazing involves sexualized components or creates hostile environments based on gender
• Universities must conduct prompt, thorough investigations

Clery Act:

• Requires reporting of certain crimes on and around campus
• Hazing incidents involving assault, alcohol crimes, or other reportable offenses trigger Clery obligations
• Failure to report can result in significant fines

Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024):

• Requires enhanced hazing transparency and prevention at institutions receiving federal funding
• Public reporting of hazing incidents will become more comprehensive by 2026

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Understanding the Difference

Criminal Cases:

• Brought by the state (prosecutor)
• Focus on punishment (fines, probation, possible jail time)
• Require proof “beyond a reasonable doubt”
• Can proceed even if the victim doesn’t want to press charges

Civil Cases:

• Brought by victims or their families
• Focus on compensation and accountability
• Require proof by “preponderance of the evidence”
• Can result in financial recovery for medical bills, therapy, lost educational opportunities, and pain and suffering

Many hazing cases involve both tracks: criminal prosecution by the state and civil lawsuits by the victims. Having an attorney who understands both arenas is critical.

National Hazing Patterns That Affect Alabama Students

The Alcohol Poisoning Pattern: Deadly “Traditions”

Several national fraternities have repeated patterns of alcohol-related hazing deaths:

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike):

• Stone Foltz, Bowling Green State University (2021): Forced to drink entire bottle of alcohol, died from alcohol poisoning
• $10 million settlement with national organization and university
• Pattern of “Big/Little” nights with forced excessive drinking

Phi Delta Theta:

• Max Gruver, Louisiana State University (2017): “Bible study” drinking game, died with BAC of 0.495%
• Resulted in Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act making hazing a felony
• Pattern of quiz-based drinking punishments

Pi Kappa Phi:

• Andrew Coffey, Florida State University (2017): Big Brother night with handles of liquor, died from alcohol poisoning
• FSU temporarily suspended all Greek life in response
• The same national organization involved in our current UH case

Physical Hazing Patterns: Beyond “Tough Love”

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE):

• Multiple chapters nationwide with severe physical hazing allegations
• Texas A&M case (2021): Pledges covered in industrial-strength cleaner causing chemical burns requiring skin grafts
• University of Alabama case (2023): Traumatic brain injury from hazing rituals
• Pattern of extreme physical “conditioning” disguised as workouts

Corps of Cadets/Military Organizations:

• Tradition-heavy environments with documented hazing risks
• Texas A&M Corps lawsuit (2023): Cadet alleged being bound in “roasted pig” position with apple in mouth
• Pattern of humiliation disguised as military discipline

Why National Histories Matter for Alabama Families

When your child joins a fraternity or sorority at an Alabama university, they’re joining a national organization with a history that may include:

• Prior hazing deaths at other campuses
• Multiple lawsuits and settlements
• Established patterns of dangerous behaviors
• Insurance carriers who have paid claims before

This history creates foreseeability: the national organization knew or should have known that certain activities were dangerous based on what happened at other chapters. This significantly strengthens civil cases by demonstrating the organization’s negligence in preventing predictable harm.

Hazing at Alabama Universities: What Winston County Families Need to Know

Universities Where Winston County Students Often Attend

Winston County families frequently send students to these Alabama institutions with active Greek life and campus organizations:

University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa):

• One of the largest Greek systems in the United States
• Over 60 fraternities and sororities
• Documented hazing incidents involving multiple organizations
• Active Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic systems with thousands of members

Auburn University:

• Significant Greek life presence with historic traditions
• Multiple hazing investigations in recent years
• Strong athletic programs with their own hazing risks
• Close-knit campus culture that can enable secrecy

University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB):
-Z Growing Greek system alongside commuter population

• Medical and health science programs with their own organizational risks
• Urban campus with off-campus housing challenges

Other Alabama Institutions:

• Troy University
• University of North Alabama
• Alabama State University
• Jacksonville State University
• University of Montevallo

Documented Hazing Incidents at Alabama Schools

While specific case details are often confidential, public records and media reports reveal patterns:

University of Alabama:

• Multiple fraternity suspensions for hazing violations in recent years
• Investigations involving alcohol abuse, physical mistreatment, and psychological hazing
• National organizations with histories at UA chapters

Auburn University:

• Hazing allegations in Greek organizations and athletic teams
• University investigations resulting in organizational sanctions
• Tradition-heavy culture that can enable abusive behaviors

Statewide Pattern:

• Similar hazing methods appear across Alabama campuses
• Common issues: forced drinking, extreme physical exertion, sleep deprivation
• Recurring challenge: balancing tradition with student safety

How Hazing Cases Typically Unfold at Alabama Universities

1. Initial Incident: Hazing occurs during pledge activities or organizational events
2. Medical Crisis: Victim suffers injury or intoxication requiring medical attention
3. Internal Reporting: Incident reported to university through various channels
4. University Investigation: Office of Student Conduct or Greek Life investigates
5. Organizational Response: Fraternity/sorority may conduct internal investigation
6. Possible Criminal Report: Local police or campus police may be involved
7. Disciplinary Actions: University may sanction organization or individuals
8. Civil Considerations: Victim and family consider legal options for compensation

Throughout this process, universities and organizations often prioritize damage control over victim support. Having experienced legal counsel ensures your family’s interests are protected.

Building a Hazing Case: Evidence, Strategy, and Recovery

Critical Evidence in Modern Hazing Cases

Digital Evidence (Most Important):

• Group chats (GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord)
• Social media posts and messages (Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok)
• Deleted messages recovered through digital forensics
• Photos and videos of hazing activities
• Location data and timestamps

Medical Documentation:

• Emergency room records and hospital admission notes
• Lab results (blood alcohol, toxicology, kidney function tests)
• Imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans for injuries)
• Psychological evaluations for trauma
• Ongoing treatment records

Physical Evidence:

• Clothing worn during hazing incidents
• Objects used in hazing (paddles, props, alcohol containers)
• Receipts for forced purchases
• Venue information (houses, Airbnbs, event spaces)

Institutional Records:

• University conduct files on the organization
• Prior complaints and investigations
• National fraternity/sorority risk management files
• Insurance policies and coverage information

Potential Defendants in Alabama Hazing Cases

Individual Students:

• Those who planned, conducted, or facilitated hazing
• Members who participated in covering up incidents
• Organizational officers who failed to intervene

Local Chapter/Organization:

• The campus chapter as a legal entity
• Chapter housing corporations
• Alumni advisors and boards

National Fraternity/Sorority:

• National headquarters that set policies and receive dues
• Risk management departments with knowledge of prior incidents
• Insurance carriers for the national organization

University/College:

• For negligent supervision or failure to enforce policies
• When they knew or should have known about dangerous activities
• For Title IX violations if hazing involved gender-based harassment

Third Parties:

• Property owners where hazing occurred
• Alcohol providers who served minors
• Security companies or event organizers

Damages Recoverable in Hazing Cases

Economic Damages:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Therapy and counseling costs
• Lost educational opportunities (withdrawn semesters, lost scholarships)
• Future earning capacity reduction if injuries are permanent

Non-Economic Damages:

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and trauma
• Humiliation and loss of dignity
• Loss of enjoyment of college experience

Wrongful Death Damages (if applicable):

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship and support
• Emotional suffering of family members
• Loss of future financial contributions

Punitive Damages:

• In cases of particularly egregious conduct
• To punish defendants and deter future hazing
• Available under certain circumstances in Alabama courts

Practical Guide for Winston County Families

For Parents: Recognizing and Responding to Hazing

Warning Signs Your Child May Be Being Hazed:

• Unexplained injuries or frequent “accidents”
• Extreme exhaustion or sleep deprivation
• Sudden secrecy about organizational activities
• Personality changes (anxiety, depression, withdrawal)
• Constant phone use for group chat monitoring
• Financial strain from unexpected “dues” or purchases
• Academic performance decline

How to Talk to Your Child About Hazing:

• Ask open-ended questions: “How are things going with your organization?”
• Express concern without judgment: “I noticed you seem really tired lately”
• Emphasize safety over loyalty: “Your health is more important than any group”
• Listen carefully to what they’re not saying as much as what they are
• Remind them they can leave any situation that feels unsafe

If You Suspect Hazing Is Happening:

1. Document everything your child tells you
2. Preserve evidence if they show you messages or photos
3. Contact the university Dean of Students office
4. Consult with an attorney before making any formal reports
5. Prioritize your child’s wellbeing over organizational relationships

For Students: Protecting Yourself and Your Rights

Is This Hazing? Questions to Ask Yourself:

• Would I do this if there were no social consequences for refusing?
• Is this activity dangerous, degrading, or illegal?
• Are only new members required to do this while older members watch?
• Would I be embarrassed if my family or university officials saw this?
• Am I being told to keep secrets about these activities?

If You’re Being Hazed:

• Your safety comes first—leave any dangerous situation immediately
• Call 911 if you or someone else needs medical help
• Tell someone you trust (RA, family member, counselor)
• Document what’s happening (photos, screenshots, notes)
• Remember: “Consent” under pressure isn’t real consent under the law

How to Exit Safely:

• You have the legal right to leave any organization at any time
• Send written notification of your resignation (email is best)
• Inform university officials about your departure and reasons
• Seek a no-contact order if you fear retaliation
• Connect with support services on campus

Critical Mistakes That Can Damage Your Case

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

1. Deleting Evidence: Messages, photos, or videos seem embarrassing but are crucial evidence. Preservation is key.

2. Confronting the Organization Directly: This triggers evidence destruction and witness coaching.

3. Signing University Settlement Offers: Universities often offer quick, minimal settlements that waive your right to proper compensation.

4. Posting on Social Media: Defense attorneys monitor everything. Inconsistencies hurt credibility.

5. Waiting Too Long: Evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and statutes of limitations run out.

6. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Alone: They record statements to use against you later.

7. Letting Your Child Return for “One Last Meeting”: This is often a pressure session to get them to recant or minimize.

Frequently Asked Questions for Alabama Families

Can we sue an Alabama university for hazing?
Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities have some immunity protections, but exceptions exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when specific individuals are sued. Private universities have fewer protections. Each case depends on specific facts.

Is hazing a felony in Alabama?
Alabama classifies hazing as a Class C misdemeanor. However, if hazing involves other crimes (assault, providing alcohol to minors, etc.), those charges may be more serious. Serious injury or death can lead to enhanced penalties.

What if my child “agreed” to the activities?
Alabama law, like most states, recognizes that “consent” obtained through peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion isn’t valid consent. The law is designed to protect students even when they technically “agree” to dangerous activities.

How long do we have to file a lawsuit?
Alabama’s statute of limitations for personal injury is generally two years from the date of injury. However, the discovery rule may extend this if the full extent of harm wasn’t immediately known. Time is critical—evidence disappears quickly.

What if the hazing happened off-campus?
Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national organizations can still be responsible based on their relationship to the organization and knowledge of activities. Many significant hazing cases involve off-campus locations.

Will our case be public or confidential?
Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. We can often negotiate confidentiality agreements and sealed court records to protect your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

How much does it cost to hire Attorney911?
We work on a contingency fee basis for hazing cases: you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. This makes experienced legal representation accessible to all families regardless of financial situation.

Why Attorney911 for Alabama Hazing Cases

Texas-Based Expertise with National Reach

While we’re based in Texas, we serve hazing victims and families nationwide, including throughout Alabama. Here’s why Winston County families choose us:

Proven Hazing Litigation Experience:
Right now, we’re actively litigating one of the most serious hazing cases in the country: Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi. This $10 million lawsuit involves:

• Extreme physical hazing causing rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
• Humiliating “pledge fanny pack” requirements
• Waterboarding-like hose spraying
• Forced overeating until vomiting followed by immediate sprints
• National fraternity and university defendants
• Chapter shutdown and ongoing litigation

This case demonstrates exactly what we do: take on powerful institutions when they fail to protect students.

Insurance Insider Advantage:
Mr. Lupe Peña spent years as an insurance defense attorney at a national firm. He knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies:

• Value and undervalue hazing claims
• Use delay tactics to pressure families
• Deploy coverage exclusions to avoid payment
• Negotiate settlements from a position of power

This insider knowledge is invaluable when fighting for Winston County families against well-funded opponents.

Complex Institutional Litigation Experience:
Managing Partner Ralph Manginello was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in BP Texas City explosion litigation—taking on billion-dollar corporations with unlimited legal budgets. That same experience applies to hazing cases against:

• National fraternities with deep pockets
• University systems with extensive legal departments
• Insurance carriers with sophisticated defense strategies

Dual Civil/Criminal Capability:
Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) means we understand both sides of hazing cases:

• Criminal charges that may accompany hazing incidents
• How to advise witnesses or participants with potential exposure
• Coordination between civil and criminal proceedings

Comprehensive Investigative Resources:
We maintain what we call the Texas Hazing Intelligence Engine—a proprietary database tracking:

• Over 1,400 Greek organizations across Texas metros
• National hazing incident patterns
• Insurance carrier histories
• Organizational structures and relationships

While this data focuses on Texas, the same national organizations operate in Alabama, and the same insurance companies defend claims nationwide.

How We Serve Alabama Families

Co-Counsel Arrangements:
We frequently partner with local Alabama attorneys to provide:

• National hazing litigation expertise
• Insurance coverage insight
• Institutional defendant experience
• Combined resources for complex cases

Consultation and Case Evaluation:
We provide free consultations to Alabama families to:

• Review your specific situation
• Explain legal options under Alabama and federal law
• Help preserve critical evidence
• Develop a strategic approach

Full-Service Representation When Appropriate:
If your case has Texas connections (Texas-based defendants, insurance carriers, or other factors), we may be able to serve as lead counsel while working with your local Alabama support network.

Our Commitment to Winston County Families

We understand that hazing cases are deeply personal and often traumatic. Our approach is:

Victim-Centered:

• Your child’s wellbeing comes first
• We prioritize privacy and sensitivity
• We move at your family’s comfort level

Thorough Investigation:

• We leave no stone unturned in uncovering what happened
• We use digital forensics to recover deleted evidence
• We subpoena university and organizational records

Strategic Accountability:

• We identify all potentially liable parties
• We pursue both compensation and institutional change
• We aim to prevent future harm to other students

Transparent Communication:

• Regular updates on your case
• Clear explanations of legal processes
• Honest assessments of options and risks

Contact Attorney911 Today for a Free Consultation

If hazing has impacted your family in Winston County or anywhere in Alabama, you don’t have to face this alone. The institutions involved have legal teams and insurance adjusters working to protect their interests. You deserve advocates who will protect yours.

What to Expect in Your Free Consultation:

1. We Listen: We’ll hear your story without judgment or interruption
2. We Explain: We’ll outline your legal options under Alabama and federal law
3. We Advise: We’ll recommend next steps for evidence preservation and protection
4. We Answer: We’ll address all your questions about the process, timeline, and possibilities
5. No Pressure: You decide when or if to proceed—we provide information, not pressure

Contact Information:

Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
24/7 Availability: We understand hazing crises don’t keep business hours

Email:

• Ralph Manginello: ralph@atty911.com
• Lupe Peña: lupe@atty911.com

Spanish Language Services:
Hablamos Español. Contact Mr. Peña directly for consultation in Spanish.

Offices Serving Alabama Families:

• Houston, Texas (Headquarters)
• Austin, Texas
• Beaumont, Texas
• Serving Alabama through consultation and co-counsel arrangements

Take the First Step Today

Time is critical in hazing cases. Evidence disappears quickly. Witnesses get coached. Universities begin their damage control. The sooner you contact experienced counsel, the better protected your rights will be.

Whether your child attends the University of Alabama, Auburn, UAB, or any other institution, if hazing has caused harm, you have rights. Let us help you understand them and fight for the accountability your family deserves.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 right now. We’re here to help Winston County families navigate one of the most difficult challenges any parent can face.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com