A Florida State University graduate student appeared in a viral video verbally harassing and physically shoving a Jewish male student at the campus recreation center. The female student, reportedly the daughter of an FSU social work professor, has been suspended pending investigation and may face criminal charges. The incident triggered swift condemnation from university officials and federal authorities.
Florida State University suspended the student and barred her from campus while reviewing the matter under both criminal and student code-of-conduct procedures. The incident occurred at the Leach Student Recreation Center, where the victim wore a shirt bearing the Israel Defense Forces emblem. In the video, the woman is seen approaching, cursing at him—“F‑k Israel, Free Palestine”—making an obscene gesture, and physically shoving his phone or arm.
University officials confirmed both students were interviewed and stated that campus police are involved. Support services have been offered to the victim, and the administration reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward antisemitism in accordance with Florida law. The law prohibits discrimination, harassment, or violence against Jewish students and employees.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi praised Florida State University President Richard McCullough for his immediate action, stating that antisemitism will not be tolerated in Florida. Bondi confirmed that the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the DOJ Task Force on Combating Antisemitism have opened an investigation into the incident. Florida Republican Rep. Randy Fine publicly called for the student’s expulsion and affirmed that she remains suspended pending a disciplinary hearing.
The female student has been identified by multiple media sources as Eden Deckerhoff, daughter of FSU social work professor Rosalyn Deckerhoff. Neither has made a public statement. The victim’s identity has not been disclosed.
This event comes as Florida experiences a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents. According to recent reports, Florida saw a 94% increase in documented antisemitic activity in 2023, including harassment, vandalism, and assaults. The Florida Department of Education and local law enforcement have prioritized such cases for immediate review.
With national and state authorities now involved, Florida State University faces increasing pressure to act decisively. Officials continue to assure the campus community that Jewish students’ safety and legal protections remain a top priority.
