11 Charged in Pro-Palestinian Protests at University of Michigan

On May 21, 2023, police issued a dispersal order to protesters at the University of Michigan, where an encampment had been established in April. The encampment, which grew to around 60 tents, raised safety concerns, prompting university officials to seek police assistance. Despite the order, some demonstrators refused to leave, leading to police intervention that included the use of riot gear, batons, and pepper spray. The situation escalated as officers cleared the area, resulting in the confiscation of tents and personal belongings. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced criminal charges against eleven individuals involved in the protests. Nine of these individuals were charged for their actions during the encampment, while two others faced charges related to a counter-protest. The charges included misdemeanors for trespassing and felonies for resisting or obstructing police officers, particularly for those who allegedly made physical contact with law enforcement. The Attorney General's Office conducted a thorough review of the incidents, including body-worn camera footage and police reports, to ensure that First Amendment rights were respected. They ultimately decided not to prosecute protesters involved in two earlier incidents, indicating a careful consideration of the balance between free speech and lawful conduct. Nessel emphasized that while the right to protest is protected, illegal actions cannot be justified by one's beliefs. The charges reflect a commitment to uphold the law while navigating the complexities of public demonstrations and safety concerns on campus.