Five former and current Stanford University students facing felony vandalism-related charges over a 2024 pro-Palestinian demonstration are set to have the charges dismissed, prosecutors said. The earlier trial ended with a deadlocked jury and a judge declared a mistrial.
The case stems from the protest in which demonstrators barricade themselves inside the university president’s office. According to multiple reports, 12 protesters were initially charged with felony vandalism. Prosecutors now say the remaining five defendants will receive dismissal conditioned on completing required community service and paying restitution to the university.
Outlets differ on emphasis and details. The Washington Times and The Independent report that the dismissal depends on community service and restitution. The Jerusalem Post notes the mistrial timing in February and reiterates that the charges were felony vandalism. Al-Monitor, quoting Reuters, adds the specific requirements cited by California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office: 100 hours of community service per defendant and about $52,000 total in restitution.
