Two men were arrested Monday at the University of New Mexico after allegedly planning to throw objects at people attending a Turning Point USA event.
Kevin Castro and Harrison Magnus were taken into custody by university police after attending the campus event. Court documents do not identify the event, but the university’s TPUSA chapter held a “Prove Me Wrong” discussion that day with Kristan Hawkins, president of Students for Life of America.
Video shared by the chapter appears to show Magnus shouting at the crowd as officers lead him away in handcuffs.
According to court documents, Castro allegedly threw a lacrosse ball toward the crowd, nearly hitting someone. He faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, disorderly conduct and conspiracy.
Magnus allegedly discussed plans with Castro to throw objects into the crowd. He was charged with conspiracy, disorderly conduct and concealing his identity.
A University of New Mexico spokesperson confirmed the arrests and said the school supports free expression but will not accept violence or unlawful conduct on campus.
“UNM remains committed to providing a safe, healthy and inclusive environment for all who learn, work and live on our campuses,” the spokesperson said. “The university upholds freedom of expression and will not tolerate threats, violence or other conduct that violates the law or university policies.”
It was not immediately clear whether Castro had an attorney. The university police department had reached out to Magnus’ attorney for comment.
In a separate incident the following day, a 70-year-old poet allegedly slapped a Turning Point Action member outside a polling place in New Hampshire.
Laconia police said officers arrested Stephen Redic at about 8 a.m. Wednesday. He was charged with misdemeanor simple assault and disorderly conduct, a violation.
Police said Redic approached a Turning Point tent as he was leaving and wanted “to read a poem about rich people.” Video of the encounter appears to show him becoming increasingly agitated, shouting at the man, making an obscene gesture, slapping him and walking away.
Turning Point USA said the person who was struck is 18 years old.
