Hatchet seized from pro-Palestinian protesters at University of Utah
Law enforcement cleared a protest camp at the University of Utah, leading to the arrest of 17 protesters and the confiscation of a hatchet. The university dismantled tents and supplies post-11 p.m. The institution supports free expression but underscores adherence to rules. The incident highlights global unrest impacting campuses. Police disbanded a protest camp at the University of Utah, resulting in 17 protester arrests and the seizure of a hatchet. The university removed tents and supplies after 11 p.m. While endorsing free expression, the institution stresses rule compliance. This event sheds light on global unrest affecting campuses.
Law enforcement officials cleared a protest encampment at the University of Utah, during which 17 protesters were arrested, one officer was injured, and a hatchet was confiscated.
The university announced it had disassembled around a dozen tents, numerous packs of food, toilet paper, water bottles, and other supplies as it cleared the demonstration area shortly after 11 p.m. on Monday, according to the University of Utah’s Department of Public Safety.
The university also expressed its commitment to free expression for students and faculty members. However, Utah also emphasized the importance of following the school’s rules and regulations.
“Utah college campuses around the state are not exempt from the significant unrest that currently exists in our country and world,” said Keith Squires, the university’s chief safety officer. “Campuses serve as a stage and forum for not just students, but for members of the community who want their voice to be heard. We honor all voices, but the right to speech on our campus must occur within the confines of state law and campus policies.”
In a statement regarding the protests, the university also clarified what was permitted during demonstrations.
“The University of Utah affirms the right of every student, staff, and faculty member to express diverse viewpoints, debate issues, and otherwise engage in free expression,” a release from the university read. “Such expression includes reasonable limits as enumerated in the First Amendment, Utah Administrative Code, and University of Utah Speech Policy.”
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“Consistent with these limits, students, faculty, and others do not have the right to set up structures or camp overnight on University of Utah property. Protestors are being notified and will receive multiple warnings to disperse,” read the release. “If protesters fail to comply with the law, University of Utah Police in collaboration with Salt Lake City Police, Unified Police, Utah Highway Patrol and West Valley City Police will disband the structures and make arrests as needed.”
After the protest area was cleared, the university announced that its schedule would return to business as normal. This included restoring traffic in the area, including campus shuttles and buses. The school also announced that final exams would continue on Tuesday.
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