Columbia Janitors Sue Protesters for Hostage Assault

Two Columbia University janitors, Mario Torres and Lester Wilson, have filed a federal lawsuit against more than 40 individuals—comprising both students and outside agitators—who occupied Hamilton Hall during anti-Israel protests in April 2024. The janitors allege they were assaulted, held hostage, and subjected to antisemitic slurs while being prevented from leaving the building. The suit, supported by the Torridon Law firm and the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law, claims the protesters' actions caused the men physical injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder, leaving them unable to return to work and reliant on inadequate workers' compensation. The lawsuit also asserts that the occupation was highly coordinated, with demonstrators bringing supplies and using masks and hoods to conceal their identities. Lawyers for the janitors argue the incident violated their civil rights and characterized the protesters’ conduct as reminiscent of hate groups. This legal action comes after many criminal charges against protesters were dropped by the Manhattan District Attorney.