Protesters accused of blocking traffic in front of Indiana Gov Mansion charged
The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office said Friday charges have been filed against 14 people accused of blocking traffic on Meridian Street during a protest in late April.
The protesters called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza before their arrests. Their rally coincided with protests at college campuses across the country related to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.
All 14 protesters arrested in Marion County are facing an obstructing traffic charge. IndyStar is not identifying them because the charge is a misdemeanor.
No injuries were reported during the protests or as the protesters were arrested, according to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.
Previous coverage: Police: 14 people arrested outside Indiana Governor's Mansion in Gaza ceasefire protest
Those arrested ranged in age from 19-59. Seven protesters were from Indianapolis, four were from Fishers, and one each were from the Indiana towns of Union City, Lafayette and Columbus.
The protest unfolded outside the Governor's Mansion and was organized by Jewish Voice for Peace — Indiana and Middle Eastern Student Association of IUPUI.
"Through large banners and bold visuals, as well as a Seder teach-in, Jewish and Palestinian organizers hope to pressure government officials to divest from genocide and stop arming Israel," a news release about the event stated.
Initial hearings for the individuals arrested at the protest were held Friday. They were given about 45 minutes to move from the street and numerous orders from officers to get out of the roadway before they were arrested, according to court documents.
Contact Jake Allen at jake.allen@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jake_Allen19.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Protesters charged, accused of blocking traffic in Indianapolis
