13.02.2026 13:20
A professor at Ohio State University threw a journalist's camera to the ground, saying, "I told you not to shove this in my face," and then assaulted the individual. While the footage caused an uproar, the university administration placed the professor on administrative leave following the scandal.
An incident at Ohio State University has brought discussions about free press and academic conduct back to the forefront on campus.
Professor Luke Perez, who works at the Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture and Society at the university, came into the spotlight after a physical altercation with a journalist on campus following an event attended by former university president E. Gordon Gee on February 9.
ATTACKED THE CAMERAMAN
In viral videos, Perez is seen taking the camera from documentary filmmaker Mike Newman during his attempt to interview Gee and throwing it to the ground. The footage also shows Perez shouting, "I told you not to shove this in my face!"
PLACED ON ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE
Following the incident, Ohio State University spokesperson Ben Johnson described the events as "very concerning" and announced that Perez was placed on paid administrative leave as of February 10. It was stated that Perez would be given limited permission to come to campus and that a comprehensive investigation would be conducted by the OSU Police Department (OSUPD) regarding the incident. Johnson also emphasized that they generally do not prevent journalists or documentarians from being in public spaces like the university.
"ATTACK ON FREE PRESS"
According to eyewitnesses and recorded video, Perez first blocked the camera, then knocked Newman to the ground and attempted to prevent him through physical contact. Newman stated that he felt pain in his neck and shoulder after the incident and went to the emergency room. Journalist D.J. Byrnes described Perez's behavior as an "attack on free press" and expressed that they would file a complaint regarding the incident. Some media commentary noted that this incident has sparked broader discussions about freedom of expression and campus safety in the academic world.