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Ohio State Professor Suspended After Tackling Filmmaker Questioning Former President
Luke M. Perez, a new professor at the university's Chase Center, was placed on leave pending an investigation into the viral incident.
Published on Feb. 13, 2026
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Luke M. Perez, an assistant professor at Ohio State University's Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture and Society, was placed on administrative leave after a video showed him tackling a filmmaker who was trying to question former OSU president E. Gordon Gee. The incident occurred after one of Perez's classes, where Gee was a guest lecturer. The university called the incident "very concerning" and said a full investigation is underway.
Why it matters
The incident has sparked outrage from faculty and politicians, with some calling for Perez's termination. It also raises questions about academic freedom, the role of new civics-focused centers at public universities, and the appropriate ways for journalists to interact with university officials.
The details
According to the report, Perez stepped in front of filmmaker Michael Newman to block his path as Newman tried to ask Gee a question after class. Perez then smacked Newman's phone out of his hand, swung at his head, and tackled him to the ground. Newman and local blogger DJ Byrnes, who was with Newman, are not under investigation by the university.
- The incident occurred on the evening of February 9, 2026, following one of Perez's 'Profiles in American Leadership' classes, where Gee was a guest lecturer.
- Perez was placed on administrative leave by Ohio State on February 10, 2026, "pending a full OSUPD investigation and thorough review of the facts."
The players
Luke M. Perez
An assistant professor at Ohio State University's Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture and Society, who was suspended after a video showed him tackling a filmmaker trying to question former OSU president E. Gordon Gee.
Michael Newman
A Columbus filmmaker and independent journalist who was attempting to ask E. Gordon Gee a question when he was tackled by Perez.
E. Gordon Gee
The two-time former president of Ohio State University who was a guest lecturer in Perez's 'Profiles in American Leadership' class.
DJ Byrnes
A local left-leaning political blogger who was with Newman and is not under investigation by the university.
Ben Johnson
An Ohio State University spokesperson who called the incident "very concerning" and said a full investigation is underway.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
