Story perspectives

NY Court Vacates Sanctions for Columbia Students in Protest

3/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

New York Supreme Court Justice Gerald Lebovits vacated disciplinary sanctions against 22 Columbia University students tied to the 2024 Hamilton Hall occupation, during which two janitors were detained.
The court ruled Columbia improperly relied on sealed arrest records.
The court ordered that students be judged on individual actions.
Columbia University is reviewing the ruling and appealing.
The Manhattan District Attorney's Office dismissed charges against many students due to insufficient evidence.

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Story summary

New York Supreme Court Justice Gerald Lebovits vacated disciplinary sanctions against 22 Columbia University students tied to the 2024 Hamilton Hall occupation, during which two janitors were detained.
The court ruled Columbia improperly relied on sealed arrest records.
The court ordered that students be judged on individual actions.
Columbia University is reviewing the ruling and appealing.
The Manhattan District Attorney's Office dismissed charges against many students due to insufficient evidence.