A former University at Buffalo (UB) student has pleaded guilty to inciting a riot following a threatening social media post directed at a Jewish Student Union demonstration held on campus. The 19-year-old male from Newburgh, New York, entered the plea on February 27, 2025, before Amherst Town Court Justice Jeff Marion, admitting to one count of inciting to riot, a Class “A” misdemeanor.
The incident occurred on May 6, 2024, coinciding with Holocaust Remembrance Day. The defendant posted a photo of a pro-Israel demonstration organized by the Jewish Student Union on UB’s North Campus, accompanied by the caption, “Can somebody shoot this s**t up?” The post, made on a public Snapchat story for the class of 2027, was perceived as a direct threat against the participants of the demonstration.
Upon discovering the post, University Police swiftly identified the student, who subsequently turned himself in. He was initially charged with attempting to make a terrorist threat and a threat of mass harm—a felony and misdemeanor, respectively. However, he ultimately pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of inciting to riot.
Given that the defendant was 18 at the time of the offense, he will be adjudicated as a youthful offender during sentencing, scheduled for June 2, 2025. As a result, his name has not been disclosed publicly. He remains released on his own recognizance pending sentencing.
The University at Buffalo has condemned the threatening behavior. Brian Hamluk, UB’s Vice President for Student Life, stated, “The university will immediately respond whenever threatening, harassing or discriminatory acts are committed against a member of our community. UB states in the strongest possible manner that we condemn and stand firmly against antisemitism, Islamophobia and discrimination of any form.”
This incident has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of students participating in demonstrations and expressing their beliefs on campus. The swift response by university authorities underscores UB’s commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
The case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences associated with making threats, particularly those targeting specific religious or ethnic groups. It also highlights the importance of vigilance and prompt action by educational institutions in addressing and mitigating potential threats to campus safety.