NYPD Prepares for Potential Protests at Columbia University

The NYPD is prepared to disperse anti-Israel protesters at Columbia University, even though the institution has not requested police intervention, as reported by the N.Y. Post.

Despite the deadline to vacate a tent camp on campus, many students and faculty have chosen to remain, engaging in marches, songs, chants, and drumming activities.

Patrol officers have been readied on Randall’s Island, near Columbia’s campus, but the Strategic Response Group is not currently involved.

Columbia University has the authority to summon police onto its premises, but has not done so yet.

This situation mirrors a previous incident on April 18, when more than 100 protesters were arrested after Columbia President Minouche Shafik called upon the NYPD to dismantle the encampment.

In a communication on Monday morning, Shafik expressed the university’s intention to resolve the crisis internally.

Jameel Jaffer, executive director at the Knight Institute, condemned the use of armed officers to suppress peaceful protests, calling it an assault on free speech.

Deputy Commissioner Tarik Sheppard reiterated the NYPD’s stance on responding to emergencies and crimes during an appearance on Newsmax’s Saturday Agenda.

The NYPD is ready to take action against criminal behavior, especially when directed at officers, to ensure the safety of the city and law enforcement personnel.