A 25-year-old man named Jihad Dphrepaulezz was arrested after this week’s protest outside a Turning Point USA event at University of California, Berkeley, where authorities say he committed assault and robbery following a brawl.
Police allege Dphrepaulezz grabbed a chain necklace from the neck of a rally attendee, triggering a violent confrontation. The incident took place during a larger clash between demonstrators and supporters of the conservative group, in which tear gas, fireworks and bottles were reportedly used.
The victim, initially taken into custody by mistake, was later released once officers clarified that he had been attempting to retrieve his property from Dphrepaulezz. The former UC Berkeley student now faces charges of robbery and assault with injury.
The demonstration, part of the organization’s national college tour, was held as the group wrapped up its final stop following the recent assassination of its founder. Organizers said the internal event proceeded without interruption, but the arrest highlights the growing danger of campus confrontations spiralling into criminal activity.
Law-enforcement officials say the case is under investigation and are reviewing video footage and witness statements to determine if additional charges or arrests may follow.