University of Florida Police officers arrest two during anti-abortion demonstration

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - Two college students were arrested Friday afternoon on the scene of an anti-abortion demonstration at Turlington Hall, at the University of Florida.

Ian Dinkla, 21, and Bryn Taylor, 26, were arrested around 12:30 p.m., and were both charged with resisting arrest with violence.

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UFPD officials say that Dinkla grabbed a sign from the demonstration. Officers say that when police approached him, he pushed them away.

Police say after attempting to arrest Dinkla, Taylor struck an officer in the back of the head with a bullhorn. Officers say that Taylor then punched an officer in the face while being arrested.

“The University of Florida will be absolutely clear about these two things: Speech is protected, and violence is not tolerated,” UF spokesman Steve Orlando said. “Everyone — regardless of their views — can exercise their First Amendment rights on this campus, and nobody has a right to violence. Violent behavior and resisting arrest are unacceptable. The University’s conduct and disciplinary review process will move forward.”

Taylor was arrested on charges of aggravated battery on an officer, and Dinkla was arrested on charges of robbery. Both were arrested with resisting an officer with violence.

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