Two men with no connection to the University of South Florida (USF) now face felony charges after a viral video showed a group interrupting a Muslim student prayer circle inside a campus parking garage.
Detectives with the USF Police Department (USFPD) announced they have identified two of the three individuals seen in the video. Authorities have “direct filed” their cases with the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office, pursuing prosecution on charges that include hate crime enhancements.
Investigators identified the suspects as Christopher Svochak of Waco, Texas, and Richard Penskoski of Canyon, Oklahoma.
According to police, neither suspect lives in the Tampa Bay area, nor are they enrolled or employed at the university. Both have received trespass orders prohibiting them from returning to campus.
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They face the following charges:
- Disturbing schools and religious and other assemblies: Upgraded to a felony under Florida Statute 775.085, known as the hate crime enhancement statute.
- Disorderly Conduct (Misdemeanor)
- Disrupting School or Lawful Assembly (Misdemeanor)
The investigation began on November 18 after university police became aware of online videos showing individuals harassing a small group gathered for prayer.
While officers have identified Svochak and Penskoski, the case remains active. Detectives are working to confirm the identity of a third suspect in the video. USFPD expects to forward a case to the State Attorney once they identify the individual.
USFPD Chief Chris Daniel emphasized the department’s commitment to campus safety.
“We take this incident very seriously,” Chief Daniel said. “Our department is committed to protecting every member of our community, and we will use every available resource to ensure accountability and maintain a safe environment for all.”
The university has increased patrols and police visibility across campus and upcoming events as a precaution. Anyone with information about the third suspect or additional details is asked to contact the USF Police Department at (813) 974-2628.
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