Professor arrested for throwing object at ICE during California weed farm raid

The math and philosophy professor at California State University Channel Islands, Jonathan Anthony Caravello, 37, was arrested last Thursday and has been charged with "assaulting, resisting or impeding a federal officer," according to an affidavit obtained by Ojai Valley News.

The affidavit added that after federal agents deployed tear gas during the raid, which was protested by a number of anti-ICE agitators, Caravello was seen on body camera "attempt(ing) to kick the canister but it proceeded to roll past him, ... Caravello turned around, ran towards the canister, picked it up, and threw the canister overhand back at BP agents."

He has been released on $15,000 bail, and his arraignment has been set for August 1, the outlet reported. The canister "came within approximately several feet above law enforcements' heads."

Some on social media spread the claim that the professor was innocently detained by federal officers, however, US Attorney for the Central District of California Bill Essayli said on social media in response, "Professor Jonathan Caravello was not 'kidnapped' by federal agents. He was arrested for throwing a tear gas canister at law enforcement. He is charged with a violation of 18 USC 111 and will have a court appearance tomorrow."

The raid of the California weed farm saw 361 arrests of illegal immigrants, many of whom the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has said were convicted of crimes such as rape, child molestation, kidnapping, DUI, and others.

During the raid, a man also appeared to shoot a gun at federal officers. The individual is now under FBI investigation. 10 minors were also recovered in the raid, 8 of them being unaccompanied, which DHS has said suggests that possible illegal child labor and exploitation were taking place.