California Professor Arrested for Allegedly Tossing Tear Gas at ICE Agents During Cannabis Farm Raid

A California university professor has been arrested after allegedly throwing a tear gas canister at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during a raid on an illegal cannabis farm.

The incident occurred on Monday in Mendocino County, where federal agents and local authorities were executing a warrant targeting an unlicensed marijuana grow operation suspected of violating immigration and drug laws. According to officials, as ICE agents moved in, the professor — identified as 45-year-old Dr. Samuel Ortiz from a local college — reportedly intervened by hurling a tear gas canister at the officers.

No serious injuries were reported, but several agents required medical attention due to tear gas exposure. Ortiz was taken into custody on charges including assault on federal officers and obstruction of justice.

Authorities said they are still investigating Ortiz’s involvement with the farm, as well as possible connections to the operation’s organizers. The university where Ortiz teaches issued a brief statement expressing concern and confirming he has been placed on administrative leave pending further review.

The raid resulted in the seizure of hundreds of cannabis plants and the detention of several individuals suspected of working at the site illegally.