A professor from California was taken into custody after allegedly throwing a tear gas canister at law enforcement during a confrontation at a marijuana farm linked to an investigation for potential child labor laws violations.
Reports indicate that Jonathan Anthony Caravelo, who teaches mathematics and philosophy at California State University Channel Islands, was arrested by federal agents during a raid at Glasshouse Farm in Ventura County.
The U.S. Attorney, Bill Essayli, stated that Caravelo was charged with “throwing a tear gas canister at law enforcement.”
Essayli mentioned that Caravelo faces accusations under “18 USC 111,” which pertains to attacking, resisting, or obstructing a federal officer.
In a recent statement, U.S. lawyers countered claims that Caravelo and other educators were invited to the scene by federal agents.
However, the California faculty association claimed that Caravelo had indeed been “invited” by agents during the conflict that unfolded between protesters and law enforcement.
According to the faculty association, “four masked agents dragged Jonathan to unmarked vehicles without revealing the reasons for his arrest or their identities.”
Criminal charges, as reported by local media, suggested that numerous protesters were attempting to obstruct federal search warrants near Glasshouse Farm.
The affidavit also claims that Caravelo was seen using a megaphone while attempting to engage an agent blaring a siren sound.
Amidst the rising tension, protesters reportedly began throwing rocks at law enforcement’s vehicles, leading to significant property damage.
In response, federal agents deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd. Caravelo’s actions were captured on body cam footage, which reportedly shows him approaching a canister that had fallen.
According to the complaint, Caravelo picked up the canister and threw it towards a Border Patrol agent.
Agents testified that the canister was thrown at them, just passing a few feet over their heads.
Following the incident, Caravelo left the scene but returned about two hours later in different clothing.
Border Patrol agents then managed to identify and arrest him shortly before 6 PM, after determining he was responsible for throwing the canister.
Upon arrest, Caravelo allegedly resisted and struggled with the agents while they attempted to restrain him.
Caravelo was later released on $15,000 bail and formally charged on August 1.
Following his arrest, California State University Channel Islands issued a statement indicating that it seemed Caravelo was peacefully engaged in protests. They emphasized the importance of the First Amendment and the rights it guarantees to Americans.
The university reaffirmed its commitment to free expression and academic freedom, stating it would keep a close watch on the situation.
Federal agents claimed that the raid on Glasshouse Farm was warranted due to suspicions of hiring undocumented workers.
Subsequently, over 350 undocumented workers were reportedly arrested across several locations, with authorities noting that some children were rescued from potential exploitation.
Glasshouse Farms is currently under scrutiny over allegations of violating child labor laws.
A representative from Glass House Brands stated that they follow federal regulations and do not knowingly employ minors.
