Leftist Professor Indicted For Assaulting Federal Agents

Jonathan Caravello, a 37-year-old Channel Islands math professor arrested during federal raids outside of Camarillo and Carpinteria, California on July 10, 2025, was formally indicted on one count of assault on a federal officer using a deadly or dangerous weapon.

Caravello was among several far-left protesters arrested during an anti-ICE riot outside a raid on a cannabis farm , which was the largest in ICE history, back in July. The raid led to the arrest of 350 illegal aliens, a number of whom had serious criminal records, including convictions for rape, attempted murder and more.

Investigators also rescued 14 children from the sprawling farm in Camarillo, California.

As the raid was ongoing, a sizable crowd of anti-ICE extremists attempted to block federal agents from leaving the seen. They proceeded to clash with agents and could be seen pelting rocks at ICE vehicles, while at least one rioter fired a handgun.

A few days later, U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Los Angeles Bill Essayli announced the arrest of Caravello, who allegedly tossed tear gas canisters that were deployed to control the crowd back at federal agents. The Trump-appointed attorney also pushed back on claims that the professor was “kidnapped” by federal agents, which were advanced by left-wing activist groups.

Jonathan Caravello
Photo: CSU Channel Islands

“Professor Jonathan Caravello was not ‘kidnapped’ by federal agents,’” Essayli wrote. “He was arrested for throwing a tear gas canister at law enforcement.”

Caravello was seen on officer-worn bodycamera footage attempting to kick a canister before picking it up and throwing it overhand back at agents, according to a federal affidavit cited by Ojai Valley News. The affidavit further states that Caravello clashed with officers and attempted to tackle a Border Patrol agent during the riot.

California State University Channel Islands released a statement in support of Caravello not long after his arrest.

“At this time, it is our understanding that Professor Caravello was peacefully participating in a protest—an act protected under the First Amendment and a right guaranteed to all Americans,” the university wrote. “If confirmed, we stand with elected officials and community leaders calling for his immediate release.”

If convicted of his assault charge, Caravello faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.