Three family members have been indicted on federal charges for allegedly assaulting a Turning Point USA journalist during a protest against immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota.
Details of the Indictment
Christopher Ostroushko, DeYanna Ostroushko, and their daughter, Paige, were each charged by a federal grand jury with one count of assault. The indictment, unsealed Wednesday, also charges Christopher and Paige each with one count of interfering with a federally protected activity. Additionally, Christopher Ostroushko faces state charges of misdemeanor assault, according to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office.
Attorneys for the Ostroushkos stated they will mount a strong defense and emphasized that an indictment does not mean the family has been convicted of any crime.
Background of the Incident
The incident occurred on April 11 outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building at Fort Snelling, which has been used by Immigration and Customs Enforcement as a short-term holding facility. The area has become a hub of anti-ICE activity, with community members protesting immigration enforcement efforts by President Donald Trump’s administration.
The family were regular protesters at the Whipple building, where demonstrations have continued.
The Assault
Widely shared video taken by Turning Point USA contributor Savanah Hernandez shows Paige blowing a whistle close to Hernandez’s face. Hernandez is seen protecting her face and pushing back. The two tussle, with Paige pushing Hernandez, who falls back against a fence. Subsequently, DeYanna and Christopher separately confront Hernandez.
Christopher Ostroushko “forcefully shoved the victim in the back, head first to the ground,” the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office said. It also noted insufficient evidence to bring state charges against others. Throughout the altercation, bystanders attempted to de-escalate the situation.
Hernandez later reported broken glasses, a concussion, sore neck and back, and scraped legs. She expressed gratitude for the justice system’s response.
Legal Proceedings
James Cook, attorney for the family, argued that the videos do not tell the full story and that the family can provide a “vigorous defense.” He mentioned the Ostroushkos have faced online threats and lost their jobs, stating they wish they could undo the incident.
The Ostroushkos are summoned to appear before a federal judge on May 12. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche condemned the alleged assault as “unhinged acts of political violence,” emphasizing that targeting a conservative journalist is not peaceful protest.
