Several arrests were made during ongoing anti-Israeli protests at Columbia University, with one protester facing charges of assaulting an NYPD officer. Christopher Briones, 30, allegedly hit and scratched the officer, causing cuts, and was charged with assault, resisting arrest, and obstructing governmental administration. Another protester, Jessica Knapp, 35, was arrested for waving a 15-foot pole and resisting arrest, while Miranda Levine, 26, faced charges of resisting arrest and obstructing governmental administration. A minor was briefly taken into custody but released without charges.
Footage circulating online showed more protesters being taken into custody, with witnesses describing aggressive police tactics, including the use of zip ties on protesters wearing Palestinian keffiyehs. The protesters were chanting anti-Israel slogans and calling for divestment in response to the conflict in Gaza. The rain did not deter them, as some moved to a different part of the campus. Local residents donated food to the protesters inside tents, showing support for their cause.
NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell and Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry visited the campus during the protests. The situation remains tense as protesters continue to advocate for their beliefs despite the arrests and police presence. The university has not issued a statement regarding the protests or the arrests. Stay tuned for further updates on The Puck Drop as the situation develops.
