TAMPA, Fla. — Eleven people are facing felony charges in connection with the May 30 and 31 disturbances that followed protesting in Tampa.
What You Need To Know
- 11 people facing felony charges
- Charges stem from rioting and looting in Tampa on nights of May 30 and 31
- More charges anticipated
- PREVIOUS STORY: Hundreds captured on video looting Tampa Walmart
Hillsborough State Attorney Andrew Warren has filed the first set of felony charges against people the department says was involved in rioting and looting in the University-area on those nights.
The 11 defendants are charged with a total of 15 felony crimes, including burglary, rioting, battery on a law enforcement officer, and cocaine possession.
“If you’re out to peacefully protest, you can expect support from our community," Warren said. "But if you’re out to hurt, destroy, or steal—you can expect to be held accountable under the law."
The defendants are accused of actively looting or attempting to break into several businesses in the Hillsborough Avenue and University areas of Tampa and Temple Terrace.
Multiple stores and restaurants were looted, windows and doors were smashed in, including an AT&T store, a restaurant and jewelry store. Also, the Champs Sporting Goods store on Fowler Avenue was set on fire during the protests.
Earlier this week, the State Attorney’s Office declined to prosecute 67 people arrested while peacefully protesting.
More charges are expected against others as the State Attorney’s Office continues to review the evidence and more than 130 arrest reports gathered by law enforcement since May 30 for crimes that may have occurred during civil unrest.