by Starkville, MS – A 20-year-old college student from Mississippi State University was arrested after allegedly shouting an antisemitic slur at Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy while he was filming a pizza review on Friday. The incident, captured on video and widely shared online, has raised concerns about the rise of hate speech at public events.
Patrick McClintock, a mechanical engineering junior at MSU, was charged with a misdemeanor for disturbing the peace. He voluntarily withdrew from the university following his arrest, according to official statements.
Details of the Disturbance During the Pizza Review
The incident occurred in front of Boardtown Pizza & Pints in Starkville as Portnoy filmed his popular “One Bite” pizza review. McClintock allegedly yelled, “F–k the Jews” at Portnoy, who is Jewish, prompting a tense exchange captured on video.
Portnoy responded to the heckler by gesturing him closer to the camera, challenging the antisemitic comments.
- McClintock then approached Portnoy and his cameraman for a face-to-face interaction before leaving the scene.
- Other bystanders can be heard condemning the remark, with one person shouting, “F–k you, get out of here,” and a woman saying, “That was awful.”
Law Enforcement and University Actions
The Starkville Police Department confirmed that a warrant for McClintock’s arrest was issued over the weekend. After being processed, he was released on a $2,500 bond. A university spokesperson confirmed that McClintock had voluntarily withdrawn from MSU on Monday.
“Every person has the right to feel safe and respected in our community,” said the Starkville Police Department. “Offensive words alone are protected, but when behavior disrupts a public event or risks violence, the Starkville Police Department will take steps to help maintain safety and security.”
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Broader Context: Rising Antisemitism and Public Safety
This incident is not isolated. Portnoy has shared that he faces antisemitic attacks every day and noted a “definitive shift” in the national climate towards increased hate speech. In a preview interview, he explained,
“I’ve seen in my own experience, just being Barstool, the difference between how much hate I get. It’s every day now. There’s a definitive shift in what’s going on.”
Earlier this summer, Portnoy was similarly targeted while filming a review outside Terrazza in Toronto, where antisemitic remarks were also shouted.
These troubling trends highlight the challenges public figures face and the importance of community and law enforcement vigilance. More details on the incident and its aftermath can be found in the original coverage by the New York Post here.
Looking Ahead
The arrest sends a strong message that discriminatory and disruptive behavior will be met with legal consequences. It also invites a broader dialogue on combating hate speech and fostering respectful public discourse.
What do you think about this incident and the ongoing issue of antisemitism in public spaces? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
