OSU Faculty Member Attacks Journalist Asking Gordon Gee About Student Loan Debt | Calls for Termination & Charges

COLUMBUS, OH. — The attorney for independent journalist Michael Newman, who was attacked by an Ohio State University faculty member while interviewing former West Virginia University President Gordon Gee, is calling for the professor’s termination and criminal charges.

The incident occurred Monday evening at the Smith Lab, where video footage shows Assistant Professor Luke Perez striking Newman and attempting to wrestle him to the ground after Newman asked for one final question and attempted to enter a classroom where Gee was present. Perez, of the Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture and Society, reportedly accused Newman of invading his personal space before the physical altercation.

“The assistant professor got into the path of his camera and struck him, and that video went viral; I think there are 10 to 12 million views at this point,” said Rocky Ratliff, Newman’s attorney.

Newman sustained facial and neck injuries, as well as whiplash, and his equipment was damaged in the attack, Ratliff stated. He added that Newman was “really shocked” by the assault.

The altercation took place after a “Profiles in American Leadership” class taught by Perez, where Gee had been a guest lecturer and answered questions from students. Following the class, Newman approached Gee with a question regarding student loan debt.

Ratliff criticized Gee’s reaction to the incident, stating that the former university president’s response was “appalling” and likened his actions to directing “henchmen” to attack the journalist.

Ratliff is demanding that Perez be criminally charged for the attack and subsequently fired from his position at Ohio State. He also indicated that civil claims are being considered if the university does not take appropriate action.

“The assistant professor allowed his civil rights to be violated, meaning freedom of speech and freedom of the press,” Ratliff said. “We’re looking into options at this point, but right now we want him removed because this guy shouldn’t be teaching children.”

According to a report from MSN, Ohio State University has placed Perez on leave following the incident. Another report from MSN details that Perez lunged at Newman, a documentarian, who was attempting to interview Gee.

A lawsuit has been filed against Ohio State University following the attack, according to WV MetroNews.