The New York City Police Department unveiled footage on Tuesday night of their operation to reclaim a Columbia University building from anti-Israel demonstrators.
Hamilton Hall, seized late Monday night, was cleared around 11 p.m. Tuesday following a nearly two-hour police operation, with officers clad in riot gear. While the campus encampment was emptied of protesters, their tents remained after the raid's conclusion.
At 9 p.m. Tuesday, NYPD officers entered the occupied building at the request of Columbia University's leadership.
"@Columbia has called upon our assistance to reclaim their campus, which has witnessed troubling incidents of violence, intimidation, and property damage," stated NYPD Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry in a post on X.ORS TAKE OVER ACADEMIC BUILDING, BARRICADE DOORS
Footage from the operation depicted officers scaling ladders to access Hamilton Hall through second-floor windows. Inside, brief clips released by the NYPD showed officers dismantling barricades and accessing locked rooms.
"@NYPDnews is dispersing the unauthorized encampment and individuals barricaded within university buildings, restoring order," Daughtry continued on X. "We maintain constant communication with university officials. Our paramount concern remains public safety for all."
According to Fox News, the NYPD employed at least four "distraction devices," such as flashbangs or sound-emitting devices, to disperse the demonstrators from Hamilton Hall. Tear gas was not utilized, despite local rumors.
While no arrest figures were available Tuesday night, authorities reported no violence during the operation and no injuries.
In a letter released Tuesday night, Columbia University defended its decision to enlist NYPD assistance in retaking control of Hamilton Hall. According to the letter, posted on X by Daughtry, the building was commandeered by an individual who remained hidden inside until after closing, facilitating entry for others.
"We are of the belief that while some involved in the building takeover may be students, the leadership comprises individuals unaffiliated with the University. Those occupying Hamilton Hall have engaged in vandalism and are trespassing," the letter stated.
Columbia cited "serious safety concerns" as the impetus for seeking NYPD aid in reclaiming the building after its occupation.