Ohio State University confirmed that assistant professor Luke Perez stepped down on Oct. 23 after pleading no contest to a disorderly conduct charge. The incident occurred on Feb. 9 in the Smith Laboratory Building, where video captured Perez striking independent journalist Michael Newman, who was attempting to ask former university president E. Gordon Gee a question.
Details of the confrontation
According to the video, Perez knocked Newman to the ground during the exchange. Newman, who was filming a documentary with fellow journalist DJ Byrnes, said he was merely trying to obtain a comment from Gee when the altercation began. The university placed Perez on leave the day after the incident.
Legal outcome
In court, Perez entered a no‑contest plea to an amended charge of disorderly conduct. He received a sentence of two years’ probation, a $100 fine, and a suspended 30‑day jail term. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness with which Ohio courts treat campus violence, even when the conduct does not rise to a felony level.
University response
Ohio State’s administration acted swiftly. A university sanctioning committee reviewed the case in June and recommended termination, citing a violation of the institution’s workplace‑violence policy. While the committee’s recommendation was not the final decision, the university’s leadership chose to accept Perez’s resignation rather than pursue further disciplinary action.
Impact on campus community
Faculty, staff, and students expressed mixed reactions. Some praised the university for taking decisive action to uphold a safe learning environment, emphasizing the importance of protecting journalists and upholding free‑speech rights on campus. Others cautioned that the incident highlighted broader concerns about campus safety and the need for clear protocols when external media interact with university personnel.
What’s next for the university?
Ohio State has indicated that it will review its policies regarding media access and faculty conduct to prevent similar incidents. The university also plans to provide additional training for staff on de‑escalation techniques and the proper handling of on‑campus media inquiries.
Luke Perez’s resignation serves as a reminder that universities must balance academic freedom with a responsibility to maintain a respectful and safe environment for all members of the campus community.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
