MSU Student Patrick McClintock Arrested Following Antisemitic Slurs at Dave Portnoy

A Mississippi State University student was arrested this week. Patrick McClintock, 20, faces a charge of disturbing the peace. The arrest follows an incident where he hurled antisemitic slurs at Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy.

The confrontation occurred on a public street in Starkville, Mississippi. Portnoy was there to film a pizza review. According to the Starkville Police Department, they acted after becoming aware of a viral video showing the altercation.

Legal Repercussions and University Response

Patrick McClintock was processed and released on a $2,500 bond. The charge of disturbing the peace highlights that while offensive speech may be protected, behavior that disrupts public order is not. Police officials emphasized their commitment to community safety.

McClintock is a junior mechanical engineering major. Mississippi State University has since released him from the institution. This swift action underscores the serious nature of the incident and its violation of community standards.

Broader Impact on Community and Public Figures

This event sparks a wider conversation about public conduct and accountability. For public figures like Portnoy, such encounters are an unfortunate reality. The response from both law enforcement and the university sets a clear precedent.

For the local community, the incident is a stain on its reputation. However, Portnoy himself noted the overwhelming kindness shown by other Starkville residents. The actions of one individual do not define an entire city.

The arrest of Patrick McClintock serves as a significant example of legal consequences for public misconduct. This case demonstrates that disruptive behavior, especially when coupled with hateful language, will not be tolerated. The MSU student’s arrest underscores a firm stance against actions that threaten public peace and safety.

Info at your fingertips

What charge does Patrick McClintock face?

Patrick McClintock was charged with disturbing the peace. This is a misdemeanor offense in Mississippi. He was released after posting a $2,500 bond.

Where did the incident with Dave Portnoy occur?

The confrontation happened on a street in Starkville, Mississippi. Dave Portnoy was in the city to film a segment for his “One Bite” pizza review series. The incident was captured on video during filming.

How did Mississippi State University respond?

The university released Patrick McClintock following the incident. He was a junior studying mechanical engineering. The school took disciplinary action in line with its conduct policies.

What did Dave Portnoy say about the event?

Portnoy stated the incident did not ruin his day or week. He specifically praised the people of Starkville for being overwhelmingly nice and helpful. He separated the individual’s actions from his view of the entire city.

Why was the suspect charged with disturbing the peace?

Police explained that offensive words alone can be protected speech. However, behavior that disrupts a public event or risks violence is not. The charge reflects the disruptive nature of the act, not just the speech used.

Trusted Sources

Starkville Police Department, The Reflector (MSU Student Newspaper), Clarion Ledger