© 2025 WGLT
A public service of Illinois State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

ISU graduate teaching assistant charged with disturbing on-campus events

A gavel sits on a judge's bench. On top of that photo, the words "WGLT Courts" appears.
WGLT file photo

A graduate teaching assistant at Illinois State University faces disorderly conduct and criminal damage charges for allegedly disturbing two on-campus events last week.

ISU Police say Derek Lopez, 27, of El Paso was arrested after an investigation.

In videos widely shared on social media, a man is seen turning over a table display set up by a student organization affiliated with Turning Point USA.

“We are committed to protecting the First Amendment rights as well as safety of everyone in our campus community," ISU 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.”

Eric Stock is the News Director at WGLT. You can contact Eric at ejstoc1@ilstu.edu.