A University of Iowa student is facing multiple charges after being arrested twice in one week for allegedly vandalizing displays set up by conservative student organizations on campus.
Police say Justin Calhoon was first arrested on October 31 in connection with an incident involving the Young America’s Foundation (YAF) and again on Wednesday after allegedly flipping a table belonging to Turning Point USA (TPUSA).
In the most recent incident on Wednesday, video footage shows a man, identified by police as Calhoon, lunging at the TPUSA table, pulling it over, and scattering promotional materials on the ground. According to a criminal complaint, the all-female group of students at the table were left “visibly shaken” and “intimidated” by the event. Calhoon was arrested hours later and charged with two counts of disorderly conduct, two counts of third-degree harassment, and fifth-degree criminal mischief.
This second arrest came just days after Calhoon was taken into custody for a similar confrontation with the university’s YAF chapter on October 27. A criminal complaint states that campus surveillance captured Calhoon approaching the YAF table and displaying “disruptive and aggressive behavior” before flipping it, making obscene gestures, and shouting profanities. The complaint notes that the act damaged YAF property and that one female member expressed concern for her personal safety. Following that incident, Calhoon was charged with disorderly conduct, third-degree harassment, and fifth-degree criminal mischief.
In response to inquiries, the University of Iowa stated that all students are expected to follow the Code of Student Life but did not confirm if Calhoon would face disciplinary action, citing confidentiality. A spokesperson emphasized the university’s commitment to free speech, noting that students receive annual First Amendment training and are expected to tolerate differing viewpoints.
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