East Lansing, home to Michigan State University, has a long history of riots and public disturbances tied to sporting events. As far back as 20 years ago, fires in the streets, overturned cars, looted stores, and damaged property were par for the course after the university’s involvement in major sports events. Those Spartan fans can be a rowdy bunch at times. And recent events are proving to be no different…
23 arrests and 10 fires after Texas Tech b-ball game!
In the wake of the recent men’s basketball game between Texas Tech and MSU (where the Spartans were crushed by the Red Raiders!) students and fans took to the streets to express their displeasure. And while Americans have the right of free speech when it comes to telling the world how we feel about our favorite sports team being beaten, those rights end when speech becomes action, and laws are broken!
Police say they were filming the crowd…
Following MSU’s Final Four loss, East Lansing Police say a crowd of 1,200 to 1,500 gathered in the street and blocked traffic. It took officers in riot gear about 30 minutes to disperse the crowd, but that didn’t stop people from starting several fires in the street, throwing bottles, and damaging street signs. Several officers were filming the crowd for later review, and the E.L.P.D also says they intend to be very active on social media in coming weeks, trying to determine exactly who was involved in criminal activity during the event.
Damaging property and setting fires is illegal!
It may seem like harmless pranking, or drunken entertainment at the time, but setting fires in the street is illegal in Michigan. Even if nothing is damaged and no one is hurt, Arson is still a crime and can result in very serious charges! The same goes for Malicious Destruction of Public (or Private) Property. Destroying things that belong to businesses, the city, the state or even another person, can result in high fines and even jail time.
The Lansing area seems to have more sports-related riots than other cities
Lansing, East Lansing, and surrounding areas seem to be more susceptible to sports-related mischief and criminal activity than other cities. No one knows why, but Grand Rapids, Mt. Pleasant, Ann Arbor and many other cities that house universities around Michigan, don’t seem to suffer much in these instances. Unfortunately, in addition to giving MSU a bad name, it also means there are a considerable number of students that will face criminal charges in the coming weeks and months – a fact that can have a huge impact on a young person’s future. Of course we are mindful that this was a relatively small group of students and the majority of Spartans are hard working, law abiding citizen that enjoy MSU athletics in better ways.
Don’t let one bad decision wreck your child’s future!
Whether it’s assault, property destruction, arson, or Resisting and Obstructing, getting caught up in the momentum of these events can lead to long term troubles for young people. In addition to the financial cost, there’s the impact a criminal record has on their future, and even the chance of being kicked out of the university. Don’t let one night of high spirits and poor choices trash the future. Call 866 766 5245 and talk to one of our experienced and respected criminal defense attorneys. We’re available 24/7 to help you, no matter what charges you’re facing.