The Big Picture
Twelve of the fifteen Salisbury University students originally accused of a hate crime in connection with the October assault of a man over his sexual orientation had their charges reduced or dismissed. Court records show most are now only facing charges of false imprisonment and second-degree assault.
What Happened
On October 15, a man was allegedly lured to an off-campus apartment by a group of college-aged individuals using a social media account. Police reported that the man was assaulted, kicked, punched, and spit on while being subjected to derogatory slurs. The victim, who suffered bruises and a broken rib, told authorities he was targeted because of his sexual orientation.
The Charges
Initially, the 15 students, aged 18 to 21, faced charges of first-degree assault, reckless endangerment, false imprisonment, and hate crimes.
Dropped Charges: Twelve of the students saw their hate crime and felony assault charges dismissed.
Remaining Charges: These students now face misdemeanor second-degree assault and false imprisonment charges.
Two students, Zachary Leinemann (18) and Elijah Johnson (19), still face hate crime and false imprisonment charges, with their cases moved to Wicomico County Circuit Court.
Logan Clark (19) faces the most severe charges, including first- and second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, false imprisonment, and a hate crime.
Legal and Institutional Response
Prosecutor’s Statement: The Wicomico County State’s Attorney’s Office stated that charges were adjusted based on available evidence but declined further comment.
Defense Counsel: An attorney for one of the students, Riley Brister, denied the incident constituted a hate crime or felony assault, asserting his client's innocence.
University Action: Salisbury University has placed the students on interim suspension and pledged to monitor the cases closely, emphasizing their commitment to safety and inclusion.
What’s Next?
Trials for ten of the students, including Brister, are set for January 29 in Wicomico County District Court.
Trials for Antone and Pietuszka are scheduled earlier, on January 23 and 24, respectively.
Leinemann and Johnson are due in court on January 3, while Clark's preliminary hearing is set for December 14.
The Victim’s Experience
The victim reported being forcibly seated in the apartment’s living room, where he was surrounded and attacked. Attempts to leave were thwarted, and the assault reportedly lasted several minutes before he was allowed to leave. He later sought medical attention for his injuries.
Key Takeaway
This case highlights the complexities of determining charges in incidents of alleged hate crimes. While the legal process continues, questions about accountability and justice for the victim remain central.
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