Pro-Palestinian Protester Accepts Plea Deal for Spitting on Campus Police Officer
Gainesville — A University of Florida senior accused of spitting on a campus police officer while his classmates were being arrested during pro-Palestinian protests accepted a plea deal Wednesday that lets him avoid any time behind bars.
The Incident
On video recorded by the Florida Highway Patrol, Allan Hektor Frasheri, 21, of Largo, was seen fidgeting with a water bottle as police officers walked past him with a classmate already in custody. Frasheri thrust his face towards the officers and allegedly spat on the arm of Maj. Kristy Sasser, leading to his arrest.
Plea Deal and Sentence
Under the plea agreement, Frashera will spend 18 months on probation and undergo a mental health evaluation. He was kicked out of UF over the incident before he graduated and suspended for four years. The university also banned him from campus for three years.
Judge’s Comments
In the courtroom, Alachua County Circuit Judge Phillip A. Pena lectured Frasheri, saying, "Spitting on a police officer is demeaning, it’s inappropriate and unnecessary. This is much more offensive and distasteful than pushing someone."
Post-Arrest Developments
Frasheri was the only protester charged with a felony – battery on a police officer – following the arrest of nine UF students on April 29. The protest was in response to the Israeli violence in Gaza, which occurred in October 2023. He spent two days in jail before being released.
Other Protesters’ Outcomes
Nearly all the other protesters, including five other UF students, have already accepted plea agreements in their misdemeanor cases.
Frasheri’s Regrets
Frasheri said he regrets "some of the actions I’ve done," but doesn’t regret protesting that day on campus. He plans to transfer to another college or university to finish his degree, which he began as a philosophy and economics double major at UF.
Conclusion
The outcome of Frasheri’s case raises questions about the appropriate response to controversial protests on university campuses. While he avoided jail time, the incident highlights the need for peaceful and respectful protest methods.
FAQs
Q: What was Allan Hektor Frasheri accused of?
A: He was accused of spitting on a campus police officer while his classmates were being arrested during a pro-Palestinian protest.
Q: What was the outcome of his plea deal?
A: Frasheri accepted a plea deal that included 18 months of probation, a mental health evaluation, and a ban from the University of Florida campus for three years.
Q: What was the judge’s reaction to the incident?
A: Alachua County Circuit Judge Phillip A. Pena called the incident "demeaning, it’s inappropriate and unnecessary" and "much more offensive and distasteful than pushing someone."
