After a protest at a Scottsdale mall, Jake Paul was accused of taking part in criminal trespassing and unlawful assembly, and he is fighting the allegations against him.
Last weekend, a protest took place at Fashion Square Mall in Scottsdale, Arizona, that involved in the illegal entry to the building after it was closed.
While inside, the protestors reportedly looted and destroyed sections inside of the mall.
Scottsdale Police Department obtained many videos recorded at the scene during the protest. After reviewing the collection, they determined that a popular YouTube figure was among the people as the looting and chaos broke out.
23-year-old Jake Paul, a YouTuber, actor, and musician born in Cleveland, confirmed that he was at the protest, but said he was accused of acts in which he did not participate.
The police asserted that Paul was “in attendance and remained inside of the mall after an unlawful assembly was declared,” and it was decided that he would be charged for suspicion of criminal trespass, in addition to unlawful assembly.
Paul asserted that he was with his associates at the time of the protest and that they were “strictly documenting, not engaging.” He also stated, “I do not condone violence, looting, or breaking the law.”
While they were recording the protest, Paul said that he and his associates were “tear-gassed for filming the events and brutality that were unfolding,” and “forced to keep moving on foot” afterward.
The authorities did not report on whether they think Paul stole anything during the looting, and he was not charged with any theft-related offenses.
On July 8, Paul is expected to have his arraignment for the accusations against him.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a crime, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.