Durham, New Hampshire – Pro-Palestinian protestors were arrested at the University of New Hampshire during a demonstration on Wednesday evening. The police had given multiple warnings to the protestors, stating that they would be arrested and removed from the property if they continued to set up tents on campus.
After three warnings were issued over the intercom, police officers in riot gear appeared in front of Thompson Hall. Chief of UNH Police, Paul Dean, expressed concerns over the presence of protestors not affiliated with the university and the unauthorized setting up of tents.
Dean emphasized that setting up an encampment violated the permit granted to the organizers of the protest. Despite the protestors’ cheers, many were arrested with their hands bound behind their backs. Dean regretted the situation but asserted that an encampment on public space could not be allowed.
He further explained that law enforcement did not wish to make arrests but had no choice due to the violation. Similar arrests were made at a pro-Palestine protest at Dartmouth College in Hanover on the same evening. The New Hampshire State Police were called in response to illegal activity and collaborated with local law enforcement to ensure safety during First Amendment gatherings.
All individuals taken into custody were being processed by the respective police departments. The State Police reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of citizens while holding accountable those who break the law. The incidents at both universities have sparked discussions on the boundaries of protest activities and the balance between free speech and public safety.
The protests have drawn attention to the complexities of expressing political views on college campuses and the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining order during such events. As the situation unfolds, the community will be looking for further updates on the outcomes of the arrests and the implications for future demonstrations on campus.