Key Point Summary – California Professor Arrested

• Jonathan Caravello arrested during ICE raid protest in Camarillo
• Allegedly threw tear gas canister at federal agents
• ICE raided cannabis farm over child labor and immigration violations
• Protesters and agents clashed violently during the operation
• Caravello charged under federal law for assaulting officers
• University defends professor’s right to protest peacefully
• Over 350 undocumented workers and 14 children were rescued

Raid Explodes Into Protest Chaos

A California farm descended into chaos when a university professor joined a clash between protesters and federal agents. What started as an immigration raid quickly spiraled into tear gas, arrests, and outrage.

Jonathan Anthony Caravello, a math and philosophy professor at California State University Channel Islands, landed in handcuffs after agents accused him of throwing a tear gas canister at law enforcement during a raid on Glass House Farms in Camarillo.

Authorities said the raid targeted illegal workers and possible child labor. But tensions exploded when protesters rushed in.

Caravello Allegedly Launched Tear Gas Canister

Federal agents deployed tear gas after protesters began throwing rocks at government vehicles. According to a criminal complaint, Caravello didn’t back away—he charged in.

He first tried to kick a canister back at agents, the report claims. When that failed, he picked it up and hurled it overhand. The device reportedly flew just feet above officers’ heads.

Body cam footage captured the moment, according to the affidavit. Agents said the throw endangered the entire team standing nearby.

Caravello fled the scene, investigators said. But just two hours later, someone matching his description returned—wearing different clothes. That’s when border agents moved in.

Arrest Turns Violent, Agents Say

Border Patrol agents approached Caravello around 6 p.m. and ordered him to the ground. He lay on his stomach, but refused to hand over his arms, the complaint alleges.

Agents said he kicked, resisted, and even tried to grab an officer’s leg. Despite repeated commands, he wouldn’t comply. It took several officers to subdue him.

He now faces charges under 18 USC 111, which makes it a federal crime to assault or impede law enforcement. The charge carries serious prison time if convicted.

Protesters Say He Was “Kidnapped”

Supporters of Caravello paint a very different picture. The California Faculty Association claimed federal agents “kidnapped” him, dragging him into an unmarked vehicle without identifying themselves.

They posted that masked agents never gave a reason for his arrest or disclosed his location. Their statement ignited fury across activist networks and social media.

However, U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli shut down those claims. He confirmed Caravello was arrested lawfully and charged properly.

“This was not a kidnapping,” Essayli posted. “This was a lawful arrest during a dangerous and unlawful obstruction of a federal operation.”

University Stands By Professor

California State University Channel Islands quickly weighed in. In a public statement, school officials said Caravello appeared to be “peacefully participating” in a protest.

“If confirmed, we stand with elected officials and community leaders calling for his immediate release,” they said. The university also stressed its support for free expression and due process.

Still, they admitted they would closely monitor developments as more facts emerge.

Tear Gas, Rocks, and 500 Rioters

Federal agents stormed Glass House Farms with a high-risk warrant. They suspected the company of harboring undocumented workers and employing minors.

More than 500 protesters swarmed the area, according to officials. Agents reported being pelted with rocks. Several government vehicles were damaged. Side mirrors were smashed. Windshields were shattered.

As the confrontation intensified, officers launched tear gas to control the crowd. Caravello was allegedly right in the middle of the mayhem.

Child Workers Found, Officials Say

While protesters decried the raids as overreach, federal authorities revealed grim findings. The Department of Homeland Security said they arrested over 350 undocumented workers.

Even more shocking—agents rescued at least 14 children from suspected forced labor and human trafficking.

“These were not just immigration violations,” one agent said. “This was child exploitation on U.S. soil.”

Authorities also announced that four U.S. citizens were arrested for resisting or assaulting officers during the operation.

Cannabis Company Denies Hiring Minors

Glass House Brands responded swiftly. In a press release, the company claimed it never hired minors or knowingly broke labor laws.

They emphasized full cooperation with federal agents and insisted they followed all hiring regulations.

“Glass House has never employed children,” the company stated. “We remain committed to lawful, ethical operations.”

Caravello Out On Bail, Faces Arraignment

Caravello was released later on $15,000 bail. His arraignment is set for August 1. If convicted, the professor could face years in prison.

Activists continue to rally behind him. On social media, the hashtag #FreeCaravello gained traction. Students, faculty, and civil rights groups demanded all charges be dropped.

But federal officials say the evidence speaks for itself. They believe Caravello didn’t just protest—he crossed the line into violent interference.

The case now sits at the center of a national debate.

Is this about free speech—or federal security?

Was it lawful protest—or criminal resistance?

America will find out in court.