FBI investigating Kent State professor for alleged link to ISIS

Photo courtesy of Kent State University

Photo courtesy of Kent State University

The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security are investigating Julio Pino, a Kent State associate history professor, for alleged involvement with the Islamic State, also known as ISIS or ISIl.

A joint terrorism task force has been investigating Pino for the last year and a half, said an FBI special agent who did not wish to be named for safety reasons.

“There is no direct threat to the university,” the agent said.

The agent said they interviewed several faculty members and more than 20 of Pino’s students Tuesday about his alleged involvement. He is also being investigated for allegedly recruiting students to join ISIS.

Kent State is fully cooperating with the FBI,” said University Spokesman Eric Mansfield. “As this is an ongoing investigation, we will have no further comment.”

Mansfield said he could not comment on whether or not Pino would continue to teach at the university.

“The FBI has assured Kent State that there is no threat to campus,” Mansfield said.

University President Beverly Warren is aware of the investigation, according to the agent.

Pino is teaching two classes this semester: History of Cuba and Central America and a senior seminar in history.

Editor’s Note: Kent Stater Editor Emily Mills was among those interviewed by special agents from the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security.