8 Michigan Activists Face Federal Conspiracy Charges as Judge Weighs Jailing 4 Before Trial
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jun 13
8 Michigan Activists Face Federal Conspiracy Charges as Judge Weighs Jailing 4 Before Trial
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jun 13
Summary
Four University of Michigan-linked pro-Palestinian activists appeared in Detroit federal court Friday as prosecutors argued they should remain jailed pending trial on conspiracy charges.
Prosecutors said the group vandalized university leaders’ homes, damaged companies tied to Israel and defaced the Jewish Federation of Detroit, while also making threats, discussing violence and expressing support for Hamas.
Defense lawyers said the defendants are students with no criminal records and noted prosecutors have not accused them of physically injuring anyone.
Eight activists were charged in all; four were released on bond in separate proceedings, three had other hearings and one defendant was reported to be out of the country.
The case marks a sharper federal crackdown on campus pro-Palestinian activism and is fueling wider arguments over antisemitism, free speech and whether politics is shaping Justice Department priorities.