(WNY News Now) – AMHERST, N.Y. – A former University at Buffalo student has pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge for inciting a riot through a social media post targeting a Jewish campus demonstration.
Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announced that the 19-year-old defendant from Newburgh, New York, pleaded guilty in Amherst Town Court before Justice Jeff Marion to one count of Inciting to Riot, a Class A misdemeanor. The plea represents the highest sustainable charge.
On May 6, 2024, at approximately 12:46 p.m., the defendant posted on social media, urging others to engage in tumultuous and violent conduct likely to cause public alarm. The message was directed at individuals attending a Jewish Student Union demonstration on UB’s North Campus in Amherst. Authorities identified the defendant, then a UB student, and issued him an appearance ticket.
Since the defendant was 18 at the time of the offense, he will be adjudicated as a youthful offender at sentencing, scheduled for June 2, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. As a result, his name is no longer being disclosed. He remains released on his own recognizance.
DA Keane praised the University at Buffalo Police for their role in the investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Daniel J. Morris of the Felony Trials Bureau and Assistant District Attorney Kurt C. Snuszka of the Justice Courts Bureau.
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