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Hazing Victims in Woodford County Deserve Justice – We Can Help

If Your Child Was Hazed in Woodford County, You Are Not Alone

Woodford County families send their children to college expecting safety, growth, and opportunity. What they don’t expect is for their child to be tortured, abused, or hospitalized as part of a so-called “tradition.” But tragically, hazing happens at universities near Woodford County – and it’s happening now.

At Attorney 911, we are currently fighting a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi fraternity and the University of Houston for what they did to our client, Leonel Bermudez. He was waterboarded, forced to do 500 squats until his muscles broke down, and struck with wooden paddles – all as part of a fraternity’s “pledge process.” He ended up in the hospital with rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure, fighting for his life.

The same fraternities operate at universities near Woodford County. The same negligence exists at Woodford County institutions. And we will fight for Woodford County families with the same aggression we’re bringing to this case.

Hazing in Woodford County: What Families Need to Know

What Is Hazing?

Hazing is any intentional, reckless, or negligent act that endangers the mental or physical health of a student for the purpose of initiation, affiliation, or maintaining membership in a group. Under Kentucky law, hazing is a crime – and it can lead to civil liability for those responsible.

Examples of Hazing in Woodford County and Beyond:

• Physical abuse: Beatings, paddling, forced exercise to exhaustion
• Forced consumption: Alcohol, food, or non-food substances (e.g., peppercorns, hot sauce)
• Psychological torture: Waterboarding, humiliation, sleep deprivation
• Sexual abuse: Forced nudity, sexual acts, carrying sexual objects
• Extreme exposure: Forced to endure cold or heat for long periods

This is not “tradition.” It is not “building brotherhood.” It is abuse – and it is illegal.

Hazing Happens at Universities Near Woodford County

Woodford County is home to families who send their children to colleges and universities across Kentucky and beyond. Many of these institutions have active Greek life organizations, including fraternities and sororities with chapters of Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Pi Kappa Alpha, and other national organizations that have been involved in hazing incidents nationwide.

Universities near Woodford County with Greek life presence include:

• University of Kentucky (Lexington, KY) – Just 20 miles from Woodford County, UK has a large Greek system with multiple fraternities and sororities.
• Transylvania University (Lexington, KY) – A private liberal arts college with active Greek organizations.
• Centre College (Danville, KY) – Known for its strong Greek life presence.
• Eastern Kentucky University (Richmond, KY) – Approximately 30 miles from Woodford County.
• Asbury University (Wilmore, KY) – A Christian university with Greek organizations.

If your child attends or plans to attend any of these schools – or any university with Greek life – they could be at risk.

The Devastating Consequences of Hazing

Hazing doesn’t just leave emotional scars – it can cause life-threatening injuries and permanent damage. Our client, Leonel Bermudez, suffered:

• Rhabdomyolysis – A dangerous condition where muscle tissue breaks down, releasing proteins that can cause kidney failure.
• Acute kidney failure – Required four days of hospitalization and could have long-term health consequences.
• Severe physical pain – He was unable to walk or move for days after the hazing.
• Psychological trauma – Fear of retribution, anxiety, and PTSD from the abuse.

Other documented consequences of hazing include:

• Alcohol poisoning – Leading to coma or death.
• Traumatic brain injuries – From beatings or falls.
• Heatstroke or hypothermia – From extreme exposure.
• Sexual assault – Including rape and harassment.
• Death – Since 2000, at least one student has died from hazing every year in the U.S.

Who Is Liable for Hazing in Woodford County?

When hazing occurs, multiple parties can be held legally responsible – not just the individuals who directly participated. At Attorney 911, we pursue every liable party to ensure Woodford County families receive full compensation for their child’s injuries.

1. The Fraternity or Sorority Chapter

The local chapter that organized and conducted the hazing is directly liable for the abuse. This includes:

• Chapter officers (president, pledgemaster, etc.) who directed the hazing.
• Active members who participated in or facilitated the abuse.
• Former members who hosted hazing events at their homes.

Example: In our case against Pi Kappa Phi, we are suing the local chapter, its officers, and individual members for their roles in the abuse.

2. The National Organization

National fraternities and sororities have millions of dollars in assets and insurance policies. They are responsible for:

• Failing to supervise their local chapters.
• Ignoring prior hazing incidents – Many nationals have been sued multiple times for hazing, yet they fail to implement real change.
• Enabling a culture of abuse – Nationals often prioritize reputation over safety.

Example: Pi Kappa Phi had eight years to fix their hazing culture after Andrew Coffey died in 2017. They did nothing – and now our client was hospitalized.

3. The University or College

Universities have a legal duty to protect students from foreseeable harm. They can be held liable for:

• Failing to monitor Greek life – Many universities turn a blind eye to hazing until a tragedy occurs.
• Owning or controlling fraternity/sorority property – If the university owns the house where hazing occurred, they share responsibility.
• Ignoring prior incidents – If the university knew about hazing at a fraternity but failed to act, they are complicit.

Example: The University of Houston owns the Pi Kappa Phi house where our client was hazed. They collected rent while students were being tortured.

4. Individual Perpetrators

Every person who participated in or facilitated the hazing can be held personally liable. This includes:

• Members who physically abused the victim.
• Members who forced the victim to consume alcohol or food.
• Members who failed to intervene or report the abuse.

Example: In the Stone Foltz case, the chapter president was personally ordered to pay $6.5 million for his role in the hazing death.

5. Insurance Companies

Most fraternities, sororities, and universities carry liability insurance policies that cover hazing incidents. These policies often have high limits, making them a key source of compensation for victims.

As former insurance defense attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena know exactly how to pursue these policies to maximize recovery for Woodford County families.

What Woodford County Families Can Do If Their Child Was Hazed

If your child was hazed at a university near Woodford County, time is critical. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and statutes of limitations expire. Here’s what you should do immediately:

1. Seek Medical Attention

• Even if your child seems “fine,” hazing can cause internal injuries (e.g., rhabdomyolysis, alcohol poisoning) that aren’t immediately visible.
• Go to the emergency room or urgent care to document injuries.
• Follow up with a doctor to monitor long-term health effects.

2. Preserve Evidence

Hazing cases rely on strong evidence. Preserve the following:

• Medical records – Hospital visits, doctor’s notes, test results.
• Photos/videos – Injuries, hazing activities, locations where hazing occurred.
• Communications – Text messages, GroupMe chats, Snapchat, Instagram DMs, emails.
• Witness information – Names and contact info of other pledges, bystanders, or members who witnessed the abuse.
• Documents – Pledge manuals, schedules, or rules given to your child.

Do not delete anything. Even messages that seem harmless could be critical to your case.

3. Do NOT Confront the Organization Alone

• Fraternities, sororities, and universities will coordinate their response to minimize liability.
• They may destroy evidence or pressure witnesses to stay silent.
• Do not sign anything from the organization or their insurance company.
• Do not give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney.

4. Contact an Experienced Hazing Attorney

Hazing cases are complex and high-stakes. You need an attorney who:

• Understands hazing culture – Not all personal injury lawyers have experience with Greek life cases.
• Has a track record of winning – We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit and have experience with multi-million-dollar verdicts.
• Will fight aggressively – We don’t back down from powerful institutions like universities and national fraternities.

At Attorney 911, we offer:

• Free consultations – No upfront cost to discuss your case.
• Contingency fee representation – You pay nothing unless we win.
• Nationwide reach – We represent hazing victims across America, including Woodford County.
• Bilingual services – We speak Spanish and can assist Spanish-speaking families.

5. Report the Incident

• File a police report – Hazing is a crime in Kentucky. Reporting it can lead to criminal charges against the perpetrators.
• Report to the university – File a complaint with the school’s Greek life office or Title IX coordinator.
• Report to the national organization – Many fraternities and sororities have anonymous reporting systems.

What Compensation Can Woodford County Families Recover?

Hazing victims and their families may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses – Hospital bills, doctor visits, therapy, future medical care.
• Lost wages – Time missed from work due to injuries or recovery.
• Educational disruption – Tuition refunds, lost scholarships, or expenses for transferring schools.
• Future earning capacity – If injuries impact your child’s ability to work in their chosen career.

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical pain and suffering – The physical agony caused by hazing injuries.
• Mental anguish – PTSD, anxiety, depression, or fear of retribution.
• Emotional distress – Humiliation, shame, or loss of trust.
• Loss of enjoyment of life – Inability to participate in activities your child once enjoyed.

Punitive Damages

In cases of egregious misconduct, courts may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoers and deter future abuse. Examples of conduct that may warrant punitive damages include:

• Waterboarding – Simulated drowning is considered torture.
• Forced consumption to the point of vomiting – Reckless disregard for health.
• Beating with wooden paddles – Physical assault with weapons.
• Ignoring prior hazing incidents – Deliberate indifference to safety.

Why Woodford County Families Choose Attorney 911

1. We Are Fighting This Battle Right Now

We are currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against Pi Kappa Phi and the University of Houston. This isn’t theoretical – we are in the fight right now, and we will bring the same aggression to Woodford County cases.

2. We Have Insider Knowledge of How Defendants Operate

Both Ralph Manginello and Lupe Pena are former insurance defense attorneys. We know how insurance companies, fraternities, and universities try to minimize or deny claims. We’ve seen their playbook – and now we use that knowledge to fight for victims.

3. We Have a Proven Track Record

• Multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts in personal injury cases.
• BP Texas City explosion litigation – Experience with complex, high-stakes cases against massive corporate defendants.
• Federal court admission – We can pursue cases in federal jurisdiction, which is critical for hazing cases involving national organizations.
• Dual-state bar licenses – Licensed in Texas and New York, giving us strategic advantages in cases involving out-of-state defendants.

4. We Understand the Unique Challenges of Hazing Cases

Hazing cases are different from other personal injury cases because:

• Victims often fear retribution – Many are afraid to speak out due to intimidation from fraternity/sorority members.
• Universities and nationals have deep pockets – They will fight aggressively to avoid liability.
• Evidence can disappear quickly – Texts, photos, and witness memories fade fast.
• Criminal and civil cases may overlap – We coordinate with law enforcement to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.

We have experience navigating these challenges and will protect your child’s rights every step of the way.

5. We Serve Woodford County Families Nationwide

While we are based in Texas, we represent hazing victims across America, including Woodford County. We offer:

• Video consultations – No need to travel to our office.
• Remote case management – We handle everything electronically.
• Travel for depositions and trials – We will come to Woodford County when needed.
• Bilingual services – We speak Spanish and can assist Spanish-speaking families.

Hazing Precedents: Multi-Million-Dollar Verdicts and Settlements

Hazing cases win big when victims have strong legal representation. Here are some recent examples:

These cases prove that hazing victims and their families can – and do – win justice. Woodford County families deserve the same.

Common Defenses in Hazing Cases – And How We Defeat Them

Defendants in hazing cases often try to shift blame to the victim. Here are the most common defenses – and how we counter them:

Defense 1: “He Consented to Participate”

Their Argument: “The victim agreed to join the fraternity. They knew the risks.”

Our Counter:

• Kentucky law explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing.
• Victims are often coerced – Threatened with social exclusion, expulsion, or physical harm if they don’t comply.
• Victims don’t know what they’re consenting to – Hazing is hidden until it happens.

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

Their Argument: “This has been happening for years. It’s just part of the culture.”

Our Counter:

• Hazing is not a prank – it’s a crime. Waterboarding, forced consumption, and beatings are not “tradition.”
• Courts have repeatedly ruled that “tradition” does not justify abuse.
• Universities and nationals have policies against hazing – Defendants violated their own rules.

Defense 3: “The University Didn’t Know”

Their Argument: “The university had no idea this was happening.”

Our Counter:

• Universities have a duty to monitor Greek life. If they don’t, they are negligent.
• Many universities own fraternity houses – They can’t claim ignorance when they collect rent from the property.
• Prior incidents often exist – Universities frequently have a history of hazing at their fraternities.

Example: The University of Houston knew about hazing at their fraternities because a student was hospitalized in 2017. They did nothing – and our client was hospitalized in 2025.

Defense 4: “The National Organization Didn’t Know”

Their Argument: “The national organization had no control over the local chapter.”

Our Counter:

• Nationals have direct oversight of chapters. They can suspend, audit, or close chapters at any time.
• Nationals often know about hazing – Many have been sued multiple times for the same conduct.
• Nationals have deep pockets – They carry liability insurance that covers hazing incidents.

Example: Pi Kappa Phi National knew about “a hazing crisis” at their chapters. They did nothing – and our client was hospitalized.

Hazing Laws in Kentucky: What Woodford County Families Need to Know

Kentucky Hazing Law (KRS 164.380 – 164.385)

Kentucky has strict laws against hazing, including:

• Criminal penalties – Hazing is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days in jail and a $250 fine). If the hazing causes serious physical injury or death, it becomes a Class D felony (1-5 years in prison).
• Organizational liability – Fraternities, sororities, and other organizations can be fined up to $10,000 for hazing.
• No consent defense – Even if the victim “agreed” to participate, it is not a defense.

Civil Liability for Hazing in Kentucky

In addition to criminal charges, hazing victims can file civil lawsuits against:

• The individuals who hazed them.
• The local chapter.
• The national organization.
• The university.

Civil lawsuits allow victims to recover compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Statute of Limitations in Kentucky

• Personal injury: 1 year from the date of injury.
• Wrongful death: 1 year from the date of death.

Do not wait to take action. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and your legal rights expire.

How We Build a Strong Hazing Case for Woodford County Families

At Attorney 911, we use a data-driven, aggressive approach to build hazing cases. Here’s how we do it:

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We send preservation letters to all defendants demanding that they:

• Do not delete any text messages, emails, or social media posts.
• Do not destroy any photos, videos, or documents.
• Preserve all communications about the hazing.

We also:

• Subpoena social media companies to recover deleted messages.
• Obtain security camera footage from fraternity houses or campus buildings.
• Interview witnesses to gather firsthand accounts.

2. Comprehensive Medical Documentation

We work with medical experts to:

• Review hospital records to document the extent of injuries.
• Calculate future medical expenses (e.g., ongoing therapy, kidney monitoring).
• Link injuries to the hazing (e.g., rhabdomyolysis from forced exercise).

3. Pattern Evidence

We investigate whether:

• The fraternity had prior hazing incidents at the same chapter.
• The national organization had prior lawsuits or complaints about hazing.
• The university had prior hazing reports at other fraternities.

Example: In our Pi Kappa Phi case, we discovered that Andrew Coffey died in 2017 at a Pi Kappa Phi chapter, and the national organization did nothing to prevent it from happening again.

4. Expert Testimony

We retain experts in multiple fields to strengthen your case:

• Medical experts – To explain the injuries and long-term consequences.
• Greek life experts – To testify about the culture of hazing in fraternities.
• Psychological experts – To document PTSD, anxiety, and emotional distress.
• Economic experts – To calculate lost wages and future earning capacity.

5. Aggressive Negotiation and Litigation

We do not back down from powerful defendants. Our strategy includes:

• Demanding policy limits from insurance companies.
• Filing lawsuits when defendants refuse to settle fairly.
• Taking cases to trial when necessary to secure justice.

Example: In the Stone Foltz case, the family rejected lowball settlement offers and took the case to trial, resulting in a $6.5 million judgment against the chapter president.

What to Expect When You Work With Attorney 911

Step 1: Free Consultation

We offer a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case. During this meeting, we will:

• Review the details of what happened.
• Explain your legal rights and options.
• Answer any questions you have.
• Determine if you have a viable case.

There is no obligation, and you pay nothing unless we win.

Step 2: Investigation

If you choose to hire us, we will immediately begin investigating your case, including:

• Gathering medical records, photos, and communications.
• Interviewing witnesses.
• Subpoenaing evidence from the fraternity, university, and insurance companies.
• Consulting with experts.

Step 3: Demand Letter

Once we have gathered sufficient evidence, we will send a demand letter to the defendants outlining:

• The facts of the case.
• The legal basis for liability.
• The damages you are seeking.

Step 4: Negotiation

We will negotiate aggressively with the defendants to secure a fair settlement. Our goal is to resolve your case as quickly as possible while maximizing your compensation.

Step 5: Litigation (If Necessary)

If the defendants refuse to settle fairly, we are prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial. We have decades of trial experience and will fight tirelessly for your rights.

Step 6: Resolution

Once your case is resolved, we will ensure that:

• You receive your compensation promptly.
• Your medical bills are paid.
• Any liens (e.g., from health insurance) are resolved.
• You have the resources you need to move forward.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hazing Cases in Woodford County

1. Can I afford to hire an attorney?

Yes. At Attorney 911, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay nothing upfront.
• We only get paid if we win your case.
• Our fee is a percentage of your recovery (typically 33-40%).

This ensures that Woodford County families can fight back against powerful institutions without financial barriers.

2. What if my child was hazed at a school outside of Woodford County?

It doesn’t matter where the hazing occurred. We represent hazing victims nationwide, including:

• Students from Woodford County who attend out-of-state universities.
• Students who were hazed while visiting other campuses.
• Students who were hazed at national fraternity/sorority events.

Distance is not a barrier. We offer video consultations and travel for depositions and trials.

3. What if my child was hazed but didn’t suffer physical injuries?

Hazing doesn’t have to cause physical injuries to be illegal. Psychological trauma – such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression – is also compensable. We pursue compensation for:

• Therapy and counseling expenses.
• Emotional distress.
• Loss of enjoyment of life.

4. Will my child’s name be made public?

We understand that hazing victims often fear retribution and want to protect their privacy. We will:

• Discuss your preferences regarding anonymity.
• File motions to seal sensitive information when possible.
• Protect your child’s identity to the fullest extent of the law.

5. What if the fraternity or university threatens my child with expulsion?

Universities cannot retaliate against students for reporting hazing. If they do, we will:

• File a Title IX complaint for retaliation.
• Pursue additional damages for emotional distress caused by retaliation.
• Demand that the university reinstate your child if they were wrongfully expelled.

6. How long will my case take?

Every case is different, but hazing cases typically take 12-24 months to resolve. Factors that can affect the timeline include:

• The severity of your child’s injuries.
• The number of defendants.
• Whether the case settles or goes to trial.

We will keep you updated at every stage of the process.

7. Can I still file a lawsuit if the fraternity was already suspended or closed?

Yes. Even if the fraternity chapter was suspended or closed, you can still pursue compensation from:

• The national organization.
• The university.
• The individual members who participated in the hazing.

Example: In our Pi Kappa Phi case, the chapter was closed before we filed the lawsuit, but we are still pursuing the national organization, the university, and individual members.

8. What if my child was hazed years ago?

Kentucky has a 1-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. However, there are exceptions:

• If your child was a minor at the time of the hazing, the statute of limitations may be tolled (paused) until they turn 18.
• If the hazing caused latent injuries (e.g., PTSD that wasn’t diagnosed until later), the statute may start when the injury was discovered.

Contact us immediately to discuss your options.

Woodford County Families: It’s Time to Take Action

Hazing is not a rite of passage. It is not tradition. It is abuse – and it must stop.

If your child was hazed at a university near Woodford County, you have the right to justice, accountability, and compensation. At Attorney 911, we are ready to fight for you.

Call Us Today for a Free Consultation

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

We don’t get paid unless you get paid. There is no risk – only the opportunity for justice.

A Final Message to Woodford County Families

To the parents of Woodford County: We know what you’re going through. We know the fear, the anger, and the helplessness. We know you trusted these institutions to keep your child safe – and that trust was betrayed.

We also know that justice is possible. We are fighting this battle right now in Texas, and we will bring that same fight to Woodford County.

To the students of Woodford County: You did not deserve this. What happened to you was wrong, and it was illegal. You have the right to speak out, to seek justice, and to hold those responsible accountable.

Together, we can stop the cycle of hazing. Together, we can protect the next student. Together, we can make Woodford County – and every college campus – safer.

Call us today. The fight starts now.