A professor from California was indicted for purportedly throwing a tear gas canister at federal agents during a significant raid on a cannabis farm in July, which led to the detention of over 350 undocumented immigrants.
Jonathan Caravello, a 37-year-old professor at California State University Channel Islands, faced charges for one count of assault on a federal officer using a deadly or dangerous weapon, according to a news release by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Central District of California on Wednesday.
On July 10, federal agents executed a raid at Glass House Farms, a 160-acre marijuana cultivation site in Camarillo, located in Ventura County, California. Prosecutors, referencing court documents, stated that protesters assembled at the entrance and used their bodies and vehicles to prevent authorities from leaving the premises.
As the raid was taking place, violent clashes erupted between ICE agents and around 500 protesters, some of whom waved Mexican flags.
California State University Channel Islands released a statement after Wednesday’s charges against Caravello were announced.
Protesters confront authorities during an immigration raid in Ventura County, California, on Thursday, July 10, 2025. (KABC LA)
“We are aware of the recent indictment involving Jonathan Caravello,” the statement said. “Given that this matter is before the courts, we will refrain from commenting on the specifics of the case. We respect the legal process and emphasize the importance of letting it progress without speculation. Our priority remains our continuous work and obligations to our students.”
The university added: “Jonathan Caravello is still employed and currently teaching at our campus.”
Fox News previously reported that the raid resulted in the rescue of 14 children from Mexico and Honduras from the farm, which was purportedly using them for potential forced labor, exploitation, and trafficking offenses. One individual apprehended at the farm has a history of violent crime, including attempted child exploitation.
