The State College Police Department, with assistance from the Pennsylvania State University, continues to investigate and identify the individuals responsible for the October 22, 2016 riot following Penn State’s victory over Ohio State, which originated on the 200-300 blocks of East Beaver Avenue and continued into the Highlands Neighborhood.
As of this date, thirteen (13) individuals have been identified as being major participants in the riot and are facing criminal charges that include Felony Riot, Misdemeanor Disorderly Conduct and Failure to Disperse, and Summary Disorderly Conduct. Eleven (11) of the thirteen (13) persons to be charged are current Penn State students and two (2) who will be charged are former Penn State students. It is anticipated that charges will be filed soon against these thirteen (13) persons already identified. Once charged, all defendants who are current Penn State students will also be referred to Penn State University’s Office of Student Conduct for further disciplinary action. The Office of Student Conduct will engage its conduct process to hold students accountable for the behaviors identified that also violate the University’s Code of Conduct. Those found responsible can face sanctions up to and including expulsion from the University.
In addition to the thirteen (13) persons who have already been identified and who will be charged, the detectives expect additional persons to be identified as they continue to review the substantial amount of video obtained from both the various public cameras on Beaver Avenue and Garner Street as well as videos provided by citizens. There are twenty-four (24) photographs posted of suspects from this riot on the State College Borough website for identification purposes (www.statecollegepa.us/riotid).
“Those who have stepped up to provide the State College Police Department with video and photos have greatly aided us in the identification of suspects. Residents are encouraged to view our website and to provide additional photos or help identify other potential suspects,” said John Gardner, State College Borough Police Chief.
In addition, detectives are awaiting a final restitution amount for damage caused by the riot, with current estimates at approximately $31,000.
Anyone who may have information regarding this serious criminal incident are urged to contact the State College Police Department at (814) 234-7150, by email at police@statecollegepa.us or submit an anonymous tip through the State College Borough website (www.statecollegepa.us/anonymoustip).
Criminal charges pending for PSU riot
