Three family members have been indicted for allegedly assaulting a journalist affiliated with a conservative organization during a protest against immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota. The indictment was unsealed on Wednesday, revealing charges against Christopher Ostroushko, DeYanna Ostroushko, and their daughter, Paige Ostroushko.
Details of the Indictment
The trio was indicted by a federal grand jury, with Christopher and Paige also facing charges of interfering with a federally protected activity. Additionally, Christopher Ostroushko is facing state charges of misdemeanor assault, as confirmed by the Hennepin County Attorney's Office.
Background of the Incident
The incident occurred on April 11 outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building at Fort Snelling, a site that has become a focal point for anti-ICE protests. The area has seen continued demonstrations against immigration enforcement efforts by the Trump administration, particularly after a significant reduction in federal officers' presence in the Twin Cities. ICE has been using the Whipple building as a short-term holding facility.
Video Evidence
Widely circulated footage captured by Savanah Hernandez, a contributor to Turning Point USA, shows Paige blowing a whistle near Hernandez's face. Other angles depict Hernandez shielding her face and pushing back before a physical altercation ensues. Hernandez is heard saying, “Get away from me,” before Paige pushes her against a fence. Subsequently, DeYanna and Christopher separately confront Hernandez, with Christopher allegedly shoving her forcefully to the ground, according to the Hennepin County Attorney's Office. Bystanders attempted to de-escalate the situation.
Aftermath and Reactions
Following the incident, Hernandez reported broken glasses, a concussion, soreness in her neck and back, and scraped legs via social media platform X. She indicated she was discussing pressing charges with police. James Cook, attorney for the Ostroushko family, argued that the videos do not capture the full context and expressed confidence in mounting a “vigorous defense.” He noted that the family had been regular protesters at the Whipple building to oppose “Metro Surge” and that they have faced online threats, with DeYanna and Christopher losing their jobs. “They wish they could turn back the clock,” Cook said.
Official Statements
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche condemned the incident, stating that the Department of Justice will always “punish unhinged acts of political violence.” He emphasized that Hernandez was targeted simply for being identified as a conservative journalist, which he said is not peaceful protest. Hernandez expressed gratitude for the justice system's response in a post. She did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The Ostroushkos have been summoned to appear before a federal judge on May 12.
