Ohio AG Warns Anti-Israel Protesters of Felony Charges under “Anti-Disguise” Law

In a recent warning to university presidents in Ohio, Attorney General Dave Yost cautioned that individuals participating in anti-Israel protests on campuses could potentially face felony charges due to a historical state law. This law, known as the “anti-disguise” statute, prohibits people from gathering in groups to commit misdemeanors while wearing masks or other disguises. Violating this law carries a fourth-degree felony charge, resulting in penalties such as fines of up to $5,000 and up to five years on community control. Yost emphasized that he does not want to infringe upon First Amendment rights but clarified that such rights are meant to serve as a defense against government actions rather than a tool to harm fellow students. He added that protesters should abide by the law and refrain from committing crimes, including wearing masks during demonstrations. In a previous correspondence to Ohio State University president Ted Carter, Yost explained that Ohio law also prevents universities from divesting their assets linked to Israel. More than a dozen states have similar anti-mask legislation, many enacted during the time of Ku Klux Klan gatherings. Recently, 19 students were apprehended in Ohio for participating in anti-Israel protests while wearing masks or covering their faces. Additionally, Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein announced last week that his office is currently examining over 40 instances of arrests related to disturbances at Ohio State University.