Syracuse University Students Face Hate Crime Charges

Students at Syracuse University are facing hate crime charges after an incident during Rosh Hashanah, where authorities reported that a bag of pork was thrown at a Jewish fraternity’s house. This happened while members of Zeta Beta Tau were celebrating the Jewish New Year.

According to Allen Groves, the Chief Student Experience Officer at Syracuse, the incident was described as “deeply troubling” in a message to the community. The incident unfolded around 6 PM when a student, not affiliated with the fraternity, entered their residence and tossed the pork inside while the members were having dinner.

The pork, which was put into clear plastic bags, ended up splattered across the walls and floors of the house, as relayed by university police.

Jewish law prohibits the consumption of pork, making this act particularly offensive. Following the incident, the student fled the scene, getting into a vehicle driven by another student. Both individuals, who are 18 years old, were arrested and are facing charges of robbery resulting from hate crimes and criminal annoyance.

Groves expressed his dismay, stating, “The incident reported to us tonight is abominable, shocking our conscience and violating our core values of being a place that truly welcomes everyone.” He emphasized that such actions are not tolerated at Syracuse University.

Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick highlighted that the hate crime charges are due to the historical significance of the fraternity as a Jewish organization. He stated, “This incident is not a stupid college prank and will not be treated that way. It’s what it is. It’s a crime directed against a group of Jewish students enjoying a blessed dinner in what they believed to be a safe space.”

Additionally, these two students are under consideration for disciplinary actions in accordance with the university’s Student Behavior Act.

Groves confirmed that they would be referred to the university’s Community Standards Office for potential violations of the school’s behavior code.