Florida police said a woman instigated a riot involving hundreds of people after an ice rink canceled her party because it violated an agreement and wanted to throw a much larger party.
In May, between 400 and 500 people rioted in the parking lot of Tampa’s Astro Skating Rink, leading to about 26 arrests. Police Announced They warned them they were trespassing and gave numerous warnings, but the violence continued.
“You guys, if you’re still going out there, go and kill them. I’ll give you money.”
Rioters fought and vandalized nearby businesses, and it took police about six hours to disperse the crowd. One girl was reportedly thrown through a glass window at a barber shop, causing $1,200 in damage and injuring the girl.
After an investigation, police announced at a press conference Thursday morning that they had arrested 36-year-old Stephanie Pedroso on suspicion of inciting a riot in retaliation for having her daughter’s 18th birthday party canceled.
Chris Maganes, the owner of the rink, He told WTSP-TV Pedroso allegedly refused to hire off-duty police officers for the event, sold tickets in violation of the agreement, and promoted the event as something other than a birthday party.
“We have nothing to do with loot contests and all that nonsense, so it was our right to cancel her party, and we did,” Maganeas said.
“She came, raged, swore, screamed and posted nonsense. [coming] The next night we’re going to the rink,” he added.
Hillsborough Sheriff Chad Chronister said Pedroso had streamed live on his daughter’s Instagram account, urging people to riot in front of the store while promising to pay them.
“The use of social media to weaponize young people is absolutely deplorable,” the sheriff said. “As a parent, I cannot understand what this woman was thinking when she put lives at risk and caused this mayhem.”
Chronister said Pedroso used racial slurs and made violent and vulgar comments.
“Y’all, if you’re still going out there, go and kill them. I have money for you, I’ll pay you all,” she reportedly told people.
“This is a reminder of how quickly a situation can spiral out of control.”
Chronister slammed Pedroso’s alleged actions.
“Let me be clear: using social media to incite rioting and vandalizing business will never be tolerated. We will not tolerate it in Hillsborough County,” he added. “This is a stark reminder of how quickly a situation can get out of control and shows the importance of acting responsibly and the consequences of inciting violence.”
Pedroso faces tougher penalties if convicted due to a new law passed in Florida in 2021. The change in the law means she could face up to five years in prison.
Hillsborough State Attorney Susie Lopez said in a statement that the case has nothing to do with free speech.
“This case isn’t about peaceful protesters. This case is about a mob, and in Hillsborough County, we prosecute rioters,” she said.
In addition to inciting a riot, Pedroso was charged with illegal use of a two-way communication device and driving while license suspended or revoked, while her husband was charged with driving while license suspended or revoked.
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