Michigan Attorney General’s Raids Spark Outcry Over Free Speech
ANN ARBOR, MI — A series of controversial raids led by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office have ignited outrage among civil rights attorneys, activists, and students following targeted actions against pro-Palestinian protesters from the University of Michigan.
Early Wednesday, FBI agents and local police executed search warrants at multiple homes in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and Canton, detaining nine individuals linked to alleged “coordinated criminal acts of vandalism” totaling around $100,000. These incidents are said to involve property damage, including windows smashed and graffiti reading “Free Palestine.” Although the detainees were later released, no formal charges have been announced.
Critics argue that the aggressive tactics employed during the raids aim to intimidate activists and suppress pro-Palestinian discourse. Amir Makled, an attorney for several affected students, condemned the actions as a “criminalization of free speech,” asserting that they constitute an infringement on First Amendment rights. Concerns were further amplified by the seizure of electronic devices not only from the primary targets but also from their relatives and friends, described by attorneys as a "fishing expedition."
Adding to the scrutiny, all warrants were signed by 53rd District Court Judge Michelle Friedman Appel, raising questions about possible bias, particularly after a social media incident where she previously criticized a pro-Palestinian event.
The controversy emerges against a backdrop of increased tensions surrounding political expression on campus. Critics have noted a discrepancy in the handling of offenses, pointing out that earlier property damage during celebratory events received no such enforcement.
Civil rights organizations have rallied against the perceived heavy-handedness, calling for vigilance regarding students’ rights amidst what they see as a crackdown on dissent. For many, the message is clear: the AG’s actions may serve to silence a generation of protest.
The Attorney General’s office has yet to comment on the backlash following the raids.
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