Additional charges in UConn championship night violence, vandalism

vandalism suspects
Justin Tatsapaugh and Jose Oliveras Suarez Photo credit UConn Police Department

Storrs, Conn./WTIC Radio - Additional charges have been filed in connection with the vandalism that broke out following the UConn men's basketball team's win in the NCAA championship game this month.

Facing charges are UConn students Justin Tatsapaugh, 20, of New Hartford and Jose Oliveras Suarez, 19, of Hartford.

Tatsapaugh was previously charged in the case. Now, UConn police say he was caught on video striking a police cruiser with a metal pole, causing $2,500 in damage.

In addition, police say Tatsapaugh threw several chairs against glass windows of the Student Union dining area.

Police say Oliveras Suarez was part of a group that flipped a university-owned van, causing over $20,000 in damage.

Both suspects face charges of criminal mischief, reckless endangerment and other offenses and are free on bond.

They are due in court next week.

In additional to legal consequences, UConn says students who violate its code of conduct could face penalties up to expulsion.

Featured Image Photo Credit: UConn Police Department