An Illinois State University teaching assistant found himself in legal trouble after allegedly overturning a table belonging to a Turning Point USA student group and vandalizing their promotional materials on campus last week.
Derek Lopez, a 27-year-old graduate student and teaching assistant, was caught on video engaging with a man standing by the table, which was set up by students to advertise an event featuring political comedian Alex Stein. The footage then shows Lopez abruptly flipping the table over.
In a statement captured on camera, Lopez remarked to the bystander, “Well, you know, Jesus did it, so you know I gotta do it, right?” before proceeding to tip the table.
Lopez’s actions led to his arrest after the incident at Illinois State University. (Alex Wroblewski / Getty Images)
As he departed, Lopez sarcastically bid farewell, saying, “Thanks guys, have a great day,” and waved before leaving the scene.
In addition to this incident, Lopez is accused of interfering with another student group’s informational table, as reported by the Illinois State University Police.
He was arrested on Friday and faces charges for disorderly conduct and criminal damage to property. Police said the case is pending and may be grounds for additional charges and university disciplinary action.
Derek Lopez, 27, faces charges of disorderly conduct and criminal damage to property. (Illinois State University Police)
“We are committed to protecting the First Amendment rights as well as safety of everyone in our campus community,” Police Chief Aaron Woodruff said in a statement.
“We encourage all members of our community to learn more about free speech rights and responsibilities at Illinois State University, including constructive ways to respond when encountering speech they may disagree with,” the statement continued.
Turning Point USA was co-founded by conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was murdered during an event at Utah Valley University last month. (Getty Images)
Turning Point USA was co-founded by conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was murdered during an event at Utah Valley University last month.
