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Pro-Palestinian protesters have filed a $20 million lawsuit against SUNY New Paltz and local law enforcement following a mass arrest during a demonstration in May. The lawsuit, filed by civil rights attorney Michael Sussman, represents over 130 individuals who were detained during the protest. The plaintiffs allege police brutality, false arrests, and violations of their freedom of speech.
The protest, which took place on the SUNY New Paltz campus, resulted in 133 arrests. Protesters claim they were zip-tied, dragged, and subjected to excessive force, including having airsoft rifles pointed at them. One plaintiff reported a head injury from being thrown into a pallet, while another alleged inappropriate contact during her arrest. The lawsuit also accuses authorities of mistreatment during detention, such as denying access to water and bathrooms.
SUNY New Paltz has stated it will vigorously defend its position. The university and law enforcement previously cited safety concerns, with some Jewish students describing the protest as antisemitic. However, the plaintiffs argue their demonstration was peaceful and that their constitutional rights were violated.
The charges against all individuals named in the lawsuit were dismissed. Authorities have not yet commented on the lawsuit.