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Illinois State University Teaching Assistant Arrested After Flipping TPUSA Table

Police emphasize free-speech protections as the investigation continues.

Overview

  • Illinois State University Police arrested 27-year-old graduate student and teaching assistant Derek Lopez on Oct. 17 in Normal on charges of disorderly conduct and criminal damage to property.
  • Cellphone video shows Lopez flipping a Turning Point USA table, saying, "Well, you know, Jesus did it," scattering materials and then walking away.
  • ISUPD says Lopez allegedly disrupted two informational tabling events hosted by a registered student organization.
  • The case remains pending, and police say it may result in additional charges as well as university disciplinary action.
  • Police Chief Aaron Woodruff said the department is committed to protecting First Amendment rights and urged the campus community to learn about free-speech responsibilities.