Illinois State University staff member arrested for flipping TPUSA table

The Illinois State University Police released a statement regarding Lopez's arrest, "On October 17, 2025, after an investigation by the Illinois State University Police Department (ISUPD), 27-year-old Derek Lopez, of El Paso, IL, was arrested in Normal on charges of Disorderly Conduct and Criminal Damage to Property. Lopez is a graduate student and teaching assistant at Illinois State University."

“Well, you know, Jesus did it, so you know I gotta do it, right?” Lopez said on video taken of the incident by TPUSA's Frontlines.

Pins and other materials were spilled all over the ground in the rampage by the teacher's assistant. The video sparked backlash against the staff member online.

The Illinois State University Police released a statement regarding Lopez's arrest, "On October 17, 2025, after an investigation by the Illinois State University Police Department (ISUPD), 27-year-old Derek Lopez, of El Paso, IL, was arrested in Normal on charges of Disorderly Conduct and Criminal Damage to Property. Lopez is a graduate student and teaching assistant at Illinois State University."

"Over the last week Lopez is alleged to have disrupted two informational tabling events being hosted by a registered student organization. ISUPD was contacted by the registered student organization following the escalation leading to an investigation, identification, and arrest. This case is pending and may be grounds for additional charges and University disciplinary action," the police added.

Chief Aaron Woodruff stated, "We are committed to protecting the First Amendment rights as well as safety of everyone in our campus community. We encourage all members of our community to learn more about free speech rights and responsibilities at Illinois State University, including constructive ways to respond when encountering speech they may disagree with."