A federal jury acquitted Jonathan Caravello, a Cal State University Channel Islands professor, of charges that he assaulted federal agents during an immigration raid protest in Camarillo last summer. The jury found Caravello not guilty of hurling a tear gas canister at Border Patrol agents, a charge that carried a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
Caravello, a philosophy and math lecturer, maintained he did not intend to harm agents but threw the canister to protect community members. His attorney argued the prosecution’s case was unwarranted, stating that tear gas had been deployed indiscriminately by law enforcement.
The case drew significant attention, with students, educators, and activists rallying behind Caravello. Supporters framed his arrest as part of a broader pattern of federal overreach against protesters. The California Faculty Association’s president noted that federal prosecutors have not won similar 'assault on a federal officer' cases, suggesting such charges are often used to intimidate activists.
Caravello declined a plea deal, stating he felt a responsibility to challenge the charges. His legal team argued that the case should never have gone to trial, citing the stress and resources expended on the prosecution. The Justice Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The acquittal comes amid ongoing debates over immigration enforcement tactics and the rights of protesters. Activists have highlighted the case as an example of what they describe as systemic targeting of community advocates.