Biden could have easily done something about this. Thankfully the NYPD stepped up.
The recent events at the City College of New York (CCNY) have sparked widespread attention, with dramatic footage circulating on social media capturing the New York Police Department’s intervention during anti-Israel protests. In a display of restoring order, NYPD officers were seen removing a Palestinian flag and hoisting the U.S. flag at the campus.
NYPD Deputy Commissioner, Operations Kaz Daughtry, took to X platform to share the moment, describing it as a proud instance of restoring order on the campus grounds. The incident unfolded amidst tensions following protests ignited by CCNY President Minouche Shafik’s testimony before the House Education and Workforce Committee regarding antisemitism on campus.
Following the arrests of anti-Israel protesters at CCNY, demonstrations spilled over into Lower Manhattan, where protesters gathered outside police headquarters. Reports from ABC 7 detailed chants of solidarity as arrested individuals were processed.
Overall, more than 100 protesters were apprehended by the NYPD at both CCNY and neighboring Columbia University. City University of New York (CUNY) officials noted a significant number of demonstrators marching from Columbia to CCNY, resulting in 25 arrests by campus security.
As the protests escalated, CUNY requested NYPD assistance, leading to further arrests as police utilized barricades to control campus access. A critical moment arose when protesters attempted to breach barricades guarding an on-campus pro-Palestine encampment, prompting police intervention. One individual was apprehended after assaulting an NYPD officer with a water jug bearing a provocative sticker.
Subsequently, police dismantled the protesters’ encampment, making additional arrests of individuals forming human barriers around the tents. In response to the escalating situation, CCNY President Vincent Boudreau announced the transition to online campus operations until further notice.
While affirming the right to peaceful protest, CUNY emphasized that actions were taken in response to instances of violence and vandalism. The institution reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful campus environment, free from intimidation and harassment.
WATCH:
#HAPPENINGNOW: An incredible scene and proud moment as we have assisted @CityCollegeNY in restoring order on campus, culminating in raising Old Glory once again on their campus flagpole. 🇺🇸@NYPDPC @NYPD1stDep @NYPDChiefOfDept @NYPDChiefPatrol @NYPDnews pic.twitter.com/XZWFmvXcUs
— NYPD Deputy Commissioner, Operations Kaz Daughtry (@NYPDDaughtry) May 1, 2024