ASU breaks up 'encampment', police arrest 69 Israel-Hamas war protesters

Arizona State University police arrested 69 people early Saturday for trespassing after university officials said they set up an “unauthorized encampment” as they protested and called for a cease-fire in the Irael-Hamas war.

ASU issued a statement April 22 saying those arrested on Alumni Lawn at the Tempe campus were in violation of university policy.

Encampments are prohibited on Arizona State University property, according to the university release. Lawful demonstrations can take place except overnight between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., officials said.

“A group of people – most of whom were not ASU students, faculty or staff – created an encampment and demonstration that continued until 11 p.m. (April 26) when the group was instructed multiple times to disperse,” the release stated.

Those who refused to leave after multiple warnings were arrested and charged with criminal trespass.

“While the university will continue to be an environment that embraces freedom of speech, ASU’s first priority is to create a safe and secure environment that supports teaching and learning,” the release stated.