After prompts from university administration, the NYPD intervened to disband protest encampments at NYU and The New School, resulting in multiple arrests.
Early Friday morning, the NYPD was summoned to NYU's Greene Street Walkway, where protesters had flouted university and city regulations. Approximately 30 individuals chose to leave voluntarily, while about a dozen were arrested. The university emphasized that the decision was made to ensure the safety of the community and minimize disruption.
Meanwhile, at The New School on West 12th Street, demonstrators occupied the lobby until law enforcement intervened. Interim President Dr. Donna E. Shalala expressed regret over resorting to police action but cited repeated violations of negotiated agreements as the reason. In a statement, Shalala emphasized the university's commitment to freedom of expression but said that safety concerns necessitated action.
These developments mirror recent arrests at Columbia, City College of New York and Fordham, prompting Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban to address concerns. Recent intervention at Columbia and The City College of New York resulted in 282 arrests. Another 112 were arrested at Columbia on charges including burglary and obstruction, while at 170 were arrested at City College and are facing various charges, including assault on a police officer. They highlighted that nearly half of those arrested had no affiliation with the institutions involved - denouncing violence and external influences.
After Friday's arrests, both NYU and The New School said classes would continue as planned.