Former ASU postdoctoral researcher Jonathan Yudelman resigned from his position before being identified in a viral video physically and verbally intimidating two people at a pro-Israel rally, according to an ASU spokesperson. Today, the president of ASU stated Yudelman is banned from campus and teaching classes. His resignation — submitted prior to May 5 — from his position at the School of Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership would have been effective on June 30.
On May 9, ASU President Michael Crow provided a statement. "He is no longer permitted to be on campus and will never teach here again," Crow said.
Yudelman was identified in a video that has now been distributed across multiple social media platforms. He, alongside another man identified as Sammy Ben, were seen appearing to harass a woman in a hijab and a counter-protester across the street from the rally on the corner of University Drive and College Avenue on May 5.
In the video, he is shown walking toward the woman and shouting profanity until she navigated through a crowd of protesters and counter-protesters to her bike near a street pole.
The video has been verified for accuracy by a State Press reporter who also witnessed the incident.
READ MORE: ASU postdoctoral researcher identified in viral video intimidating two people during protest
The University referred the incident to the Tempe Police Department for a criminal investigation, as the incident took place on a city sidewalk. An ASU spokesperson said the University is investigating in consistency with its procedures for employee discipline.
The University has not confirmed what charges the University is investigating Yudelman for. The investigation will likely be carried out by the Office of University Rights and Responsibilities, or by a designee of the Office of General Counsel, according to the Academic Affairs Manual at ASU.
Yudelman was not scheduled to teach courses during the summer and was placed on leave on Monday — a day after the incident. He is additionally "not permitted to come to campus, teach classes, or interact with students or employees," according to an ASU spokesperson.
"Arizona State University protects freedom of speech and expression but does not tolerate threatening or violent behavior," an ASU spokesperson said in an email. "While peaceful protest is welcome, all incidents of violent or threatening behavior will be addressed."
Editor's Note: This article was updated at 1:27 to include the statement from President Crow. This is a developing story and may be updated.
Edited by Abigail Beck and Alexis Heichman
Reach the reporter at gheadle@asu.edu and @George_Headley7 on X.
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George is a sophomore studying journalism and mass communication. This is his third semester with The State Press. He has also worked at Times Media Group.
