Washington State University graduate student and now-former instructor Patrick Mahoney allegedly attacked a student over his support for President Donald Trump two months ago.

Mahoney was named in a police report from the student, claiming that the academic grabbed his “Take America Back” hat and threw the piece of apparel on the road. The report said that the student threw food at Mahoney, after which he and a companion took the student to the ground.

When police contacted Mahoney, who now faces charges of fourth-degree assault, he admitted that he had thrown the hat, claiming that the student then “body-checked” him and started the physical altercation. Mahoney said that he was aware of the “right-wing” views of the student.

Jay Sani, the individual who was allegedly attacked by Mahoney, commented in a statement that the incident occurred a short distance away from the school. Mahoney or his companion allegedly “proceeded to kick Jay Sani while he collapsed on the concrete” with injuries.

Washington State University thereafter terminated Mahoney from teaching and his companion from his hourly employment. Mahoney meanwhile kept his position as a graduate student.

Phil Weiler, the vice president for marketing and communications of Washington State University, remarked in a statement to the media that Washington State University is already “aware of an off-campus incident” that involved the three individuals earlier this month.

The administrator added that while Washington State University remains “committed to the freedom of speech and expression for all members of our university community,” the school will “not tolerate acts of violence or hate speech” and continues to view reports with seriousness.