University police said the arrests occurred after several protesters disrupted the event, chanting and blocking access to employer tables. Officers said the individuals were detained for disorderly conduct and failure to comply. Their names were not immediately released.
The protest began shortly after noon in the Ohio Union, where dozens of students and community members gathered with signs criticizing immigration enforcement policies and the university’s decision to allow CBP to recruit on campus.
“CBP’s presence makes many students feel unsafe,” said senior Hannah Ortiz, who described the demonstration as peaceful until police intervened. “We’re calling on OSU to reconsider allowing federal agencies with troubling records on human rights to recruit here.”
University spokesperson Emily Fischer said the fair was designed to offer students access to a broad range of career opportunities and confirmed that CBP was invited as part of that effort.
“Ohio State supports free expression within university guidelines,” Fischer said in a statement. “However, when demonstrations interfere with university operations or safety, police may take appropriate action.”
The three arrested protesters were transported to the Franklin County Jail and are expected to face misdemeanor charges, police said. The incident remains under review.