A Hillsborough County woman has been charged under Florida's anti-riot law for allegedly inciting unrest at a Brandon skating rink, authorities say. According to WFLA News, Stephanie Pedroso is accused of urging social media followers to cause a disturbance at Astro Skate rink after her daughter's party was canceled for not securing off-duty deputies on May 17.

Hillsborough Sheriff Chad Chronister reported that the skating rink had to cancel a scheduled event due to breach of contract by Pedroso, who did not to hire the required security. Pedroso was apparently issued a refund, but the situation escalated when she took to social media. "Tear this bitch up," she is alleged to have posted, according to information from a New York Post article.

More than 500 individuals gathered at the scene. In the ensuing chaos, 26 people were arrested and a 16-year-old sustained a hand injury after being thrown through a neighboring barbershop window. "The mob also caused damage and forced nearby businesses to close early," said Chronister in a news conference, which is referenced in both WFLA News and Magic 939 Miami.

Pedroso is now facing serious charges including inciting a riot and unlawful use of a communications device. If convicted, she could receive up to five years in prison. This incident puts a spotlight on Florida's stringent anti-riot legislation, which had recently been affirmed by the Florida Supreme Court following its adoption after the George Floyd protests. Alongside these charges, she has been charged with felony driving with a suspended license, as detailed by Hillsborough State Attorney Susan Lopez.