Over 100 reported arrested at UT Austin pro-Palestinian protest

30 April 2024, 7:53 am

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Officers take a protester into custody at the University of Texas during a demonstration over the Israel-Hamas war, Monday, April 29, 2024, in Austin, Texas. (AP/Jim Vertuno)

At least 100 pro-Palestinian protesters have been arrested at the University of Texas in Austin, according to a local report, with demonstrators rallying for their release outside Travis County jail.

The Austin American-Statesman cites three county officials saying at least 100 protesters are expected to be booked and charged, though only 25 have been processed thus far, a local lawyer says.

Charges may include evading arrest and assault, according to the report, though those booked so far have only been charged with criminal trespassing — the same charge leveled against 57 protesters last week ,which the county attorney’s office dropped due to lack of probable cause.

Police have 24 hours to submit probable cause affidavits for those arrested Monday, the newspaper reports.

A Palestine Solidarity Committee member tells the paper that dozens of protesters gathered outside the Travis County jail plan to continue rallying there until all those arrested have been released.

Gov. Greg Abbott earlier touted the arrests, tweeting that “no encampments will be allowed.”