Man Arrested After Antisemitic Outburst Disrupts Dave Portnoy’s “One Bite” Pizza Review in Starkville
During a “One Bite” pizza review in Starkville on November 10, 2025, Dave Portnoy was subjected to an antisemitic attack; a man was arrested and charged the following Monday, highlighting rising antisemitism and mounting security concerns nationwide.
- Arrest: 20‑year‑old Patrick McClintock was arrested and charged with misdemeanor disturbing the peace after shouting antisemitic slurs and throwing coins.
- Legal review: Investigators are assessing whether bias-motivated enhancements apply, which could increase penalties.
- Public safety: The episode intensified debate about safety at public events and protections for targeted public figures.
- Local implications: The incident raises practical concerns for communities like Fresno about policing, event security and community cohesion.
The incident
Video posted online captures the disturbance at Boardtown Pizza & Pints in Starkville while Portnoy filmed his signature Barstool Sports pizza review. A man identified as 20‑year‑old Patrick McClintock repeatedly shouted antisemitic slurs, demanded Portnoy “get out of Starkville,” and threw coins in his direction.
The footage shows interruptions that halted the review and prompted widespread attention on social media. In follow-up posts, Portnoy said the heckler appeared to have followed him and that the episode was part of growing harassment he has experienced as a Jewish public figure. See the video of the incident.
Arrest and legal response
Starkville Police arrested Patrick McClintock the Monday after the event and charged him with a misdemeanor count of disturbing the peace. The department emphasized that while offensive speech alone can be protected, disruptive behavior that risks violence or safety may warrant police action.
Investigators are reviewing footage and witness statements to determine whether the disturbance meets state criteria for bias-motivated violations, which carry enhanced penalties under Mississippi law. The police statement stressed their role in preserving safety for all attendees and community members.
Portnoy’s response and broader context
Dave Portnoy addressed the episode on social media and in interviews, condemning the antisemitic harassment. In reaction to the incident he wrote:
“Imagine hating somebody just because of their religion in this f—ing country.”
Portnoy told reporters the episode reflected a broader escalation in hostility toward him because he is Jewish and described threats that led him to hire round‑the‑clock security at his home. He warned that online rhetoric can “open the floodgates” and translate into real‑world harassment, urging people to speak out against antisemitism.
Reporting and interviews providing context for Portnoy’s statements are available from CBS News reporting and interview with Dave Portnoy.
Wider context and trends
Civil rights groups and news outlets have documented a troubling national rise in antisemitic incidents in recent years. The Anti‑Defamation League and other organizations report increases in threats, harassment and, in some cases, violence directed at Jewish communities and public figures.
Experts warn that unchecked harassment can normalize prejudice, endanger public events, and shift the burden of safety onto individuals and small businesses. Legal observers note the tension between free-speech protections and punishable conduct when speech crosses into threats, imminent risk, or disorderly conduct.
Implications for Fresno, California
Economic impact
Local businesses that host public events—restaurants, bars, and venues—could face similar disruptions if national tensions spill into community spaces. Event organizers may need to increase security or change how gatherings are managed, raising costs for small businesses.
Public safety and policing
Fresno officials and residents should assess preparedness for hate-related disruptions. The Starkville case shows that police can act when conduct disrupts safety; local agencies may review crowd-control policies and protocols for bias‑motivated incidents to ensure clear responses.
Social and community effects
Visibility of antisemitic incidents can erode community cohesion. Targeted groups may feel less safe attending public events. Faith leaders, schools and civic organizations in Fresno might increase outreach, education and reporting resources to support affected residents.
Cultural relevance
Fresno’s diverse cultural life relies on safe public gatherings—from festivals to college events. Protecting the right to assemble safely is essential to maintain trust. Local media and institutions can condemn hate speech and promote respectful dialogue.
Practical applications for residents
- Adopt clear codes of conduct for events and visible disruption protocols.
- Use trained security and staff communication systems to reduce risks.
- Document incidents when safe, report to venue staff and law enforcement, and contact community hotlines or civil‑rights organizations.
- Schools and campuses should reinforce anti‑bullying, anti‑hate policies and reporting channels.
What to watch next
Key developments to monitor include whether prosecutors pursue bias‑motivated charges in the Starkville case and any additional civil or criminal penalties. Fresno leaders may follow the legal outcome to inform local policy and community responses to antisemitism and other forms of hate.
Sources and coverage
Reporting above is based on CBS News coverage, the publicly posted video of the event, and statements from the Starkville Police Department. All original facts and URLs from those sources have been preserved.
