Court records, legal announcements from the Manhattan District Attorney's office

Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg Drops Charges Against 31 of 46 Columbia University Protesters

Jun 21, 2024, 01:04 AM

The Manhattan District Attorney's office, led by Alvin Bragg, has dropped charges against most of the pro-Palestinian protesters arrested during the occupation of Hamilton Hall at Columbia University on April 30. Of the 46 individuals charged, 31 had their charges dismissed due to lack of evidence, while another 14 were told their cases would be dropped if they avoid arrest for the next six months. The decision, announced during a court hearing, has sparked outrage and debate over the handling of the situation. The protesters, including students and staff, were initially arrested for occupying and barricading a building on campus during a demonstration. Charges were also dropped for some protesters arrested at City College.