NYPD Replaces Palestinian Flag with American Flag at City College After Protest

NYPD Replaces Palestinian Flag with American Flag at City College After Protest

New York City Police Department officers took action at the City College of New York (CCNY) after anti-Israel protesters replaced the American flag with a Palestinian flag during a demonstration that called for divestment from Israel and a ceasefire in Gaza. The protest at CCNY, which was part of a larger movement similar to those at Columbia University, escalated to include violent incidents. This prompted the NYPD to regain control of the campus, restoring the American flag and securing the area to prevent further harm. The NYPD's Deputy Commissioner for Operations, Kaz Daughtry, highlighted the flag restoration as a significant moment, and the incident was documented on social media.

In response to the protests, CCNY's President Vince Boudreau announced that campus operations would transition to online activities until further notice, citing concerns for the safety of the community. During the demonstrations, which also involved a march from Columbia University to CCNY, there were reports of a fire in a science building and an attempted break-in, leading to multiple arrests. Approximately 300 people were detained in relation to the events at both universities, with charges including trespassing, criminal mischief, and burglary.

Mayor Eric Adams criticized the institutions for allowing the Palestinian flag to fly, suggesting that external influences may have escalated a peaceful protest into violence. The occupation of university buildings, such as the one at Columbia University, is expected to result in significant costs. The NYPD will maintain a police presence at Columbia for an additional two weeks as part of their efforts to maintain order and ensure campus safety.

Summary

Other news in politics