A New York judge has dismissed trespassing charges against 30 pro-Palestinian protesters arrested at Columbia University, citing insufficient evidence. This decision comes after a group of demonstrators was detained for entering and barricading themselves inside Hamilton Hall during a protest on April 30.
Background of the Incident
The protest saw dozens of pro-Palestinian activists unlawfully entering Hamilton Hall, leading Columbia University to seek assistance from the New York Police Department (NYPD). The NYPD, in riot gear, evicted the protesters, resulting in numerous arrests. Initially, 46 individuals faced charges of criminal trespass in the third degree, a class B misdemeanour.
Legal Proceedings and Rationale for Dismissal
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg indicated an intention to review each case individually based on facts and legal merit. Historically, the Manhattan DA’s office has often chosen not to prosecute or has deferred prosecution in large-scale civil disobedience cases.
During a court hearing on Thursday, Judge Kevin McGrath dismissed the charges against 30 individuals, most of whom had no prior criminal history. This decision was influenced by the Manhattan DA's acknowledgement of "extremely limited video" evidence. Assistant District Attorney Stephen Millan noted that security cameras had been quickly covered by some defendants, preventing clear identification and evidence of participation in property damage or harm.
Remaining Defendants and Legal Options
While 31 individuals have had their cases dismissed, 15 defendants still face charges. Among these, 14 were offered Adjournments in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD), which could lead to case dismissal if no further criminal conduct occurs. However, these defendants rejected the ACD offers, standing in solidarity and rejecting what they perceived as attempts to divide them.
Public defender Matthew Daloisio, representing the majority of the defendants, emphasized that those still facing charges were not currently students or staff at Columbia. He argued that their experience during the NYPD raid was identical to those who had their cases dismissed.
One notable defendant, James Carlson, faces additional charges, including arson from a separate incident and criminal trespass related to the Hamilton Hall protest. He has pleaded not guilty to both charges.
Columbia University and Public Reaction
Columbia University has declined to comment on the legal proceedings. However, disciplinary actions for the students involved are ongoing.
The protest has sparked significant public and media attention, highlighting tensions around university protests, police responses, and the broader political context regarding Palestine.