Pennsylvania Student Protesters Unaware Police Chief Joined Scuffle

Lawyers say their clients did not know the older man in street clothes was the local police chief.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Lawyers for student protesters in Pennsylvania say their clients had no idea the older man in street clothes who joined the scuffle with police was actually the local police chief. The students were demonstrating against immigration enforcement policies when the incident occurred, and the lawyers argue the students acted in self-defense and will fight the charges, which include a felony aggravated assault charge against the police chief.

Why it matters

This case highlights tensions between student protesters exercising their First Amendment rights and law enforcement, with questions raised about the police chief’s actions and whether he properly identified himself during the confrontation. The racial dynamics of the predominantly white community and student protesters of color also add to the complexity of the situation.

The details

According to the lawyers, the 72-year-old police chief arrived in an unmarked car, was not wearing a badge or uniform, and did not identify himself as law enforcement before joining the scuffle. The lawyers say their clients, including a 15-year-old girl who was allegedly choked by the chief, were simply trying to defend themselves against what they thought was a counterprotester. The students have been charged with crimes including a felony aggravated assault charge against the police chief.

  • The incident occurred on Friday, February 24, 2026 during a student walkout protest.
  • Some of the student protesters were released on Tuesday, February 27, 2026, some on home confinement with ankle monitors.

The players

Scott McElree

The 72-year-old police chief of Quakertown, Pennsylvania who was involved in the scuffle with student protesters.

Donald Souders

A defense lawyer representing one of the student protesters, a 16-year-old boy.

Timothy Prendergast

A defense lawyer representing a 15-year-old girl who was allegedly choked by the police chief during the incident.

Ettore 'Ed' Angelo

A defense lawyer representing another 15-year-old girl charged in the case.

Joe Khan

The Bucks County District Attorney who opened an investigation into the incident while also prosecuting the student protesters in juvenile court.

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What they’re saying

“He charged from his vehicle into the middle of this group of kids. Many of the kids jumped in, in an attempt to defend her. They assumed that this was a counterprotester.”

— Donald Souders, Defense lawyer

“My client was directly choked by the chief. It was alleged that she had struck him, which she did not. They are innocent. They were exercising their First Amendment rights. The chief did not like that and acted outside of his authority.”

— Timothy Prendergast, Defense lawyer

“This was an abomination of (police) escalation when it should have been a teaching moment for de-escalation.”

— Ettore 'Ed' Angelo, Defense lawyer

What’s next

The defense lawyers expect to seek more time to gather video and other evidence in the case, as the students have a right to an adjudication hearing within 30 days, or 10 days if they remain in custody.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the complexities and tensions that can arise when student protesters exercise their First Amendment rights, especially in cases where law enforcement may not properly identify themselves or de-escalate the situation. The racial dynamics and allegations of excessive force also raise concerns about equitable treatment and police accountability.