Cleveland State Police Department arrested Popivker for violating a protection order connected to a CSU student. This is not the first time Alec Popivker broke the protection order, as he came to CSU’s courtyard on Jan. 18, though CSU PD did not do anything that day.
Popivker is also facing a persona non grata hearing that also stops him from being on campus. Under Rule 3344-90-03 of Ohio’s Administrative Code.
“The hearing notice shall also inform the visitor that, except for attending the hearing at the specified time and location, the visitor may not be present in any university location pending the outcome of the hearing,” the administrative code reads.
Popivker admitted on Instagram to committing the alleged theft of the Palestinian Human Rights student organization banner from CSU’s Student Center that went missing on Jan. 11.
Cleveland State Police Department has referred the theft to a prosecutor. Under case 2023-CRB-000551 in the Cleveland Municipal Court, Popivker is being charged with theft.
According to the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 2913.02, the charge can carry a penalty of six months and a $2500 fine if found guilty. Popivker is due in court Febuary 2.
Popivker harassment towards CSU’s Muslim and Palestinian communities is well known and documented.
“The University takes all reports of harassment or intimidation seriously. The matter involving Mr. Popivker is still under review,” Cleveland State said in a statement to The Cauldron on Jan 25. “CSU police are investigating the reported theft of the Palestinian Human Rights Organization’s banner. The University has reached out to the leaders of the Palestinian and Muslim organizations on campus to hear any concerns they may have and offer support.”
UPDATE – JAN 25. 2023: Cleveland State Police Department has referred the theft to a prosecutor. Popivker was officially charged with theft. His case is pending.