Michigan State Riot

A party-turned-riot at the Cedar Village Apartments in East Lansing, Michigan, led to the arrest of more than 50 people on Final Four Weekend 2008. Those arrested will face charges including misdemeanor disorderly conduct and felony incitement of a riot, and could face expulsion, time in prison and fines.

Police used tear gas to break up the crowd of three to four thousand after bottles were thrown and many event-goers became disorderly. The riot took place very near the Michigan State University campus, although the school downplayed students' involvement. Just under half of those arrested were enrolled at MSU.

The party was organized via the Internet and was apparently an attempt to revive the "Cedar Fest" tradition of celebrating Final Four weekend; the event had been shut down since the Eighties due to out-of-control crowds. Fast Facts:

1. Party organized via Facebook
2. Thousands attended
3. 52 arrests
4. 24 of those arrested were students
5. 48 tickets issued
6. Minor injuries reported
7. Party held on private property

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