In the current heated political climate, guest speakers at college campuses often provoke protests and sometimes even violence and other actions that result in criminal charges. This is particularly true when they espouse views that many people feel are offensive or perhaps even dangerous.
A speech last month at the University of Connecticut ended up with both the speaker and a woman who interrupted it by taking his notes off the podium facing charges.
The speaker was Lucian Wintrich. He's a White House correspondent for a conservative website called The Gateway Pundit. His speech was titled "It's Okay to Be White."
According to law enforcement, after the woman took his notes, Wintrich grabbed her. They said he "pull[ed] her back in a violent manner," and described his behavior as "tumultuous." A photo of the incident shows the woman surrounded by a group of people, including Wintrich, who appears to have his arm around her head. He was charged with breach of peace and was released after posting a $1,000 bond.
The woman, who is an adviser at Quinebaug Valley Community College, was not arrested at the time. However, she was later charged with disorderly conduct as well as attempt to commit larceny. She turned herself in to police early this month after she learned that an arrest warrant had been issued. She also had a $1,000 bond.
Wintrich tweeted about the woman's arrest, saying "The leftist thug who stole my speech was arrested. The fight is still not over." The charges against him have been dropped.
When emotions run strong, it can be easy to act in ways that we normally wouldn't. However, it's essential to remember that these actions may have legal consequences. It's always wise to seek legal advice if you or a loved one is facing criminal charges.
Source: The Daily Campus, "College advisor who stole Lucian Wintrich’s speech turns herself into UCPD," Lillian Whittaker, Dec. 11, 2017