Duke University initiates disciplinary investigation into student photojournalist following arrest at Miami ICE protest

Duke University junior Artivista Karlin faces a disciplinary probe after her arrest at a Miami ICE protest, raising questions about student reporting rights.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 16, 2026, 7:17 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The News & Observer

Protest at Krome Detention Center Leads to Mass Arrests

The investigation stems from a high-profile demonstration in Miami-Dade County where over 30 protesters were detained for blocking the entrance to the Krome Detention Center. Among those arrested was Artivista Karlin, 21, a Duke student and Miami native with a history of student organizing. Law enforcement charged Karlin with unlawful assembly, obstructing a highway, and resisting an officer. According to Karlin, the protest was an act of nonviolent civil disobedience intended to temporarily halt operations at the facility, which houses individuals suspected of being in the country without legal authorization.

Photojournalism Capacity vs. Activist Involvement

A central point of Karlin’s defense is her professional intent during the demonstration. An aspiring photojournalist, she asserts that her presence at the detention center was primarily to document the event. This claim is bolstered by the fact that professional photojournalist David Decker of the Tampa Bay Times was also arrested at the scene. While charges against Decker have been dropped, Karlin is currently participating in a pretrial diversion program that is expected to result in the dismissal of her charges this summer. Karlin argues that Duke’s disciplinary actions fail to recognize the role of the press in safeguarding the right to protest.

University Cites Duke Community Standard Policies

The Dean of Students office at Duke notified Karlin of the investigation on February 22, citing potential violations of the Duke Community Standard. The university's report specifically references "Disruption, Interference, and Disorderly Conduct" as the primary policies in question. These policies prohibit students from interrupting the duties of public officials or refusing to leave private areas when unauthorized. Duke officials have declined to comment specifically on Karlin's case, citing federal privacy laws and the university's adherence to the Duke Community Standard for all student conduct matters.