STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- Police charged 14 people in connection with an unruly street celebration following the Penn State football team's dramatic win over Ohio State two weeks ago.
An estimated 4,000 fans poured out onto a two-block area downtown after the 13-6 win over the rival Buckeyes in Columbus on Oct. 25. Authorities estimated about $7,000 in property damage, including two uprooted light poles, torn street signs and damaged cars.
Some people threw beer cans at police and a cruiser was damaged. About 25 officers used pepper spray and night sticks to break up the gathering. There were no serious injuries.
Four people face one count each of felony riot and other misdemeanor charges. Eight others face lesser charges including misdemeanors. Two others received summary citations for criminal mischief.
Charges were filed yesterday after police spent nearly two weeks trying to identify suspects by watching video from the Internet and street surveillance cameras. Investigators also relied on tips from the public.
Authorities are still trying identify more suspects, borough police chief Thomas King said.
Of the 14 charged so far, 10 were Penn State students. Two others are State College residents who are not students. One suspect is a student at West Virginia University and another is enrolled at the University of Maryland.
Among the Penn State students charged was Michael Felleter, 20, of State College, a staff photographer on assignment for The Daily Collegian, the independent campus newspaper. He faces counts of failure to disperse and disorderly conduct, both misdemeanors.
Chief King said officers had told news media members covering the gathering to move to a safer area, but Mr. Felleter repeatedly went into the middle of the street to take pictures.
Collegian editor Terry Casey said Mr. Felleter "was photographing the scene and left when he was told to do so."
In determining charges, the district attorney advised police that the media had an obligation to follow the same rules as the public, Chief King said.
First Published: November 7, 2008, 4:00 p.m.