Erin Otis - Judge, Prosecutor, Mother - Son Arrested after Organizing Mob Action Targeting Student on Campus of ASU - Arizona, Maricopa County

Court ruling re-ignites scandal involving former judge, county attorney

One underaged suspect was also arrested and a Manhunt is underway for a 5th suspect.

Mother shares heartache after son was attacked by several people near ASU

UPDATE: 11/10/2025

ASU Mob Beating Update

Latest Update (as of November 10, 2025)

• Court Proceedings: On November 5, 2025, three of the adult suspects—18-year-old Justin Michael Otis, 18-year-old Donnell Young, and 19-year-old Jayden Malik Smith—pleaded not guilty during their initial court appearance in Maricopa County Justice Court. The fourth suspect, a juvenile, has not yet entered a plea, and their identity remains protected. All four face felony charges of aggravated assault and endangerment under Preston's Law. They are currently out of custody on bond.

• Prosecution Handling: Due to a potential conflict of interest (one suspect is the son of a Maricopa County prosecutor's office employee), the case has been forwarded to the Coconino County Attorney's Office for review and charging decisions. No trial date has been set, and the investigation by ASU Police remains ongoing.

• Victim's Condition: The 18-year-old victim has been released from the hospital but is dealing with long-term physical and emotional trauma. His mother, speaking publicly, emphasized the randomness of the attack and urged parents to discuss campus safety with their children.

• Public and Community Response: ASU has increased security patrols near dorms in response. The incident has reignited discussions about group violence on college campuses, especially in light of the two-year anniversary of the Preston Lord beating that inspired the new law. No additional arrests have been announced.

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