Princeton Student Found Not Guilty of Assaulting Officer at Protest

Princeton, NJ - David Piegaro, a senior at Princeton University, was found not guilty of assault charges in connection with an incident that occurred during a pro-Palestinian protest on campus last year. Piegaro was arrested and charged with assaulting a police officer while he was recording the demonstration.

The trial concluded this week with a judge ruling in favor of the defense. The judge stated that the prosecution did not present sufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Piegaro intentionally assaulted the officer. Video footage taken by Piegaro and other witnesses was presented as evidence.

The case has sparked debate on campus and beyond, raising questions about the limits of free speech during protests and the appropriate response from law enforcement. Supporters of Piegaro maintained that he was simply exercising his right to document the events and that the charges were politically motivated. Critics argued that any physical contact with law enforcement, regardless of intent, should be considered a serious offense.

Piegaro's legal team expressed relief at the verdict, stating that their client was wrongly accused and that the case should serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting civil liberties. The university has declined to comment on the matter.