Madison Reporter

UWPD provided an update on the events that unfolded at Library Mall on Wednesday morning. According to the report, a total of 34 individuals were arrested, with a majority being released without citations. However, four individuals faced serious charges. Caleb A. Brown was charged with attempted disarming a police officer and resisting arrest, while Leo A. Randle was charged with battery to a police officer. Karl M. Schultz faced charges of battery to a police officer and resisting arrest, and Trevor H. Carter was charged with battery to a police officer.

Regarding the law enforcement response, it was noted that four police injuries occurred during the operation. Three deputies from Dane County were injured due to physical resistance, and a State Trooper sustained injuries when a protester struck them with a skateboard.

The encampment of protesters at Library Mall was dispersed by UWPD officers, with assistance from state and local law enforcement. At least 12 individuals were arrested, including some who resisted arrest. UWPD received support from the Madison Police Department, Dane County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wisconsin State Patrol in managing the situation.

Despite the arrests and dispersal of the encampment, the campus continued to operate normally with no safety threats. UWPD remained on site to ensure that any ongoing protests were conducted in a safe and lawful manner. The University of Wisconsin-Madison reiterated its commitment to upholding free expression within the boundaries of the law and campus policies.

The incident stemmed from a group of 100-200 individuals arriving on Monday for a planned demonstration, which led to the erection of tents on Library Mall. Campus leaders engaged with the protesters over the following days, urging them to remove the illegal tents and eventually resorting to enforcement action on Wednesday morning.

Tents and camping are strictly prohibited on university property, as outlined in Chapter 18 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code. The individuals involved in the protest were repeatedly warned before law enforcement intervention took place.

The UWPD operation involved multiple warnings to the protesters, with final action being taken when individuals failed to comply. Despite some confrontations and resistance from protesters, the encampment was successfully dismantled.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison reiterated its support for peaceful demonstrations while emphasizing the importance of adhering to campus regulations. The campus community was reminded of the rules regarding activities permitted on university grounds, with the university committed to maintaining a safe and lawful environment for all.