Four University of Rochester students, Samantha Escobar, Naomi Gutierrez, Jefferson Turcios, and Jonathan Bermudez, were charged with second-degree criminal mischief for allegedly placing “wanted” posters that targeted faculty members on campus. The posters accused the faculty of being complicit in the deaths and displacement of Gaza residents during the Israel-Gaza conflict. The Jewish campus organization condemned the posters as antisemitic, while Jewish Voice for Peace viewed them as criticism of Israel’s actions. The students appeared in court, pleaded not guilty, and were released on their own recognizance. The charge of second-degree criminal mischief carries a potential prison sentence of up to seven years and a fine of up to $5,000.
The damage caused by the posters exceeded $6,000, including the need for replacement boards, resurfacing, and new paint for walls. University President Sarah Mangelsdorf stated that the students would undergo the university’s conduct procedures in addition to the criminal justice process. Faculty member Sandra Boehlert expressed fear among professors, while student Nora Goodman criticized the university’s response as extreme. Students at the University of Rochester have expressed support for the accused individuals and criticized the university for perpetuating hate on campus and dividing students. Rochester City Council member Stanley Martin showed her support for the arrested students and criticized the University of Rochester for prioritizing profits over student safety.
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