The annual College Fest event at Kent State may be infamous to the ears of many Ohio residents. In 2009, for example, actions at the festival led to the arrest of more than 65 students. Well, this year wasn't much different. Last weekend, 33 people, who may now require a criminal defense, were arrested by police in connection with the annual event.

Reportedly, a crowd made up of thousands of people was celebrating College Fest in the area of College Avenue in Kent on April 21. After fights allegedly broke out, though, police began to break up the crowd, using non-lethal weapons while dressed in riot gear. Those present reported over a social media networking service that police were using tear gas and rubber bullets among other devices to break up the festival.

Authorities say that most of the 33 people arrested were charged with the failure to disperse. However, with so many people arrested, it may be true that at least some of the 33 are innocent of the charges leveled against them. Of importance will be the circumstances of their arrest and their behavior at the time of the incident.

Facing criminal charges in Ohio is never an insignificant matter. Even a charge of failure to disperse can lead to penalties such as a fine or a period of time behind bars. Those who have found themselves charged with such a crime may thus wish to consider putting forth a criminal defense that is robust and aggressive.

Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer, "33 arrested in Kent after a block party becomes violent," Donna J. Miller, April 22, 2012