Philenews

Ohio State University Professor Suspended After Allegedly Assaulting Journalist

Published February 13, 2026, 12:22
Ohio State University Professor Suspended After Allegedly Assaulting Journalist

An assistant professor at Ohio State University, Luke Perez, has been placed on leave following an incident with a journalist, Mike Newman. Newman was attempting to interview the university’s former president, Gordon Gee, when the professor allegedly assaulted him, knocking him to the ground. The incident, which was captured on video, shows the professor hitting the journalist’s phone and grabbing him, while reportedly saying, "I told you not to put that in my face." The university expressed its concern about the incident and launched an investigation by the university police department. The university's statement indicates that the professor was placed on leave on February 10th, pending completion of the investigation and review of the evidence. Newman has not yet made a public statement regarding the incident. However, the video has sparked discussion on social media and raised questions about the professor’s behavior. Police have not announced whether they will make any arrests or file charges. The investigation is ongoing and is expected to take some time to collect all necessary evidence.