Attorneys for a Summerville restaurant owner charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor say the allegation is not supported by evidence.
Dinah Marie Chollet, a co-owner of The Knot Burger Pub in Summerville, was charged following an investigation connected to a student-organized protest at Summerville High School.
In a newly released statement, her attorneys said the charge is “unfounded and unsupported by the facts,” adding that anyone who reviews what actually occurred — rather than rumors or online speculation — would reach the same conclusion.
Investigation Tied to Student Instagram Group
According to authorities, a school resource officer monitored an Instagram group titled “Summerville Walkout,” created by students organizing an anti-ICE protest scheduled for Feb. 20. The group reportedly included about 80 members between the ages of 14 and 18, who discussed leaving campus during school hours and disrupting the school day.
Police said Chollet entered the chat on Feb. 10 using her business Instagram account and identified herself as “Dinah Yo.” Authorities allege she expressed support for the walkout, praised participating students and indicated that adults would join them.
Investigators wrote that her involvement appeared to influence some students who later made threats of vandalism and violence toward a specific individual. According to the report, some juveniles responded positively to her support.
Public Reaction and Legal Response
After news of the charge became public, a post on The Knot Burger Pub’s social media page referenced her mugshot in a lighthearted manner.
Chollet’s attorneys have indicated she will not make further public comments as the legal process moves forward.
