SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Dozens of protesters, including UC San Diego students, were arrested on campus for refusing to disperse their makeshift encampments while advocating for the divestment of Israel and a ceasefire in Gaza.
Following their release, cheers erupted from the crowds as some even carried the protesters on their shoulders.
According to the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, misdemeanor cases stemming from the arrests will be handled by the city attorney.
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Former San Diego City Attorney Mike Aguirre expressed his expectation that these cases would likely be resolved collectively, with individuals potentially facing fines but no jail time unless violence or property damage occurred.
During the cleanup of the encampment, university officials said they discovered various items including metal and plywood “shields,” wooden stakes, aerosol spray cans, propane tanks and a sword.
While the university cited safety hazards as the reason for removing the encampments, Aguirre expressed hope that the students would not face imprisonment, emphasizing the importance of First Amendment rights.