Campus Uproar: 35 Arrested in Anti-Israel Protests at California University
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt (Cal Poly Humboldt) witnessed days of unrest, culminating in anti-Israel agitators breaking into and occupying two academic buildings. In response, LA News Center contacted law enforcement to restore order on campus.
Police Operation Restores Order
On Tuesday, at 2:30 a.m., law enforcement officers swiftly moved to clear and secure Siemens Hall and Nelson Hall East, resulting in the arrest of 35 individuals. The operation concluded without any injuries or incidents, the university announced.
Humboldt County Sheriff William Honsal emphasized the importance of reestablishing order on campus.
“When someone commits a crime that infringes on the rights of others, it becomes necessary for law enforcement to intervene. The criminal and dangerous activities we witnessed were not peaceful protests, but unlawful behavior.”
University Statement Condemns Unlawful Activities
Cal Poly Humboldt strongly condemned the protesters’ “lawless behavior,” declaring that the occupied buildings were no longer places for peaceful expression but venues of criminal activity.
The university’s objective, as stated, was to:
- Regain control of the campus
- Protect the safety of students and staff
- Eliminate threats of violence and unlawful behavior
- Reclaim buildings and property
Arrests and Consequences
The arrested activists face charges ranging from unlawful assembly to vandalism, conspiracy, and assault on police officers. Charged university employees may also face disciplinary action, the university announced.
Campus Closure and Ongoing Monitoring
The university has decided to keep its campus closed through May 10. Law enforcement will continue to monitor the situation closely until that time.
White House Condemns Violence
In response to similar violent protests at Columbia University in New York, the White House issued a statement condemning the unlawful takeover of academic buildings.
National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby declared that such actions are not peaceful protests and that hate speech has no place in the U.S. Additionally, he emphasized that students should not be hindered from pursuing their education or participating in graduation ceremonies due to campus disruptions.
Call for Respect and Academic Integrity
As unrest on university campuses continues, it’s imperative that the focus remains on preserving academic integrity and the rights of all students to learn and be free from disruption.
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
